US Asian Post (Los Angeles edition) August 11, 2023

PBBM to US solon: New responses needed amid volatile geopolitics

MANILA (Mabuhay) — President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. on Tuesday stressed the need to strengthen the Philippines' ties with the US and for "new responses and new positions" amid volatile geopolitics, particularly in the Asia Pacific.

Marcos thus said during the courtesy call of US Senator Tammy Duckworth in Malacañang.

“I think we must continue to promote and to hopefully make even stronger and deeper and especially with

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III condemned the China Coast Guard’s use of water cannons and other dangerous maneuvers, which put the safety of Philippine vessels and crew at risk.

the volatility that we are observing in geopolitics, especially in our region, but not limited to our region but all over the world, is something that we need to find new responses for and to take new positions for,” Marcos said.

When he met with US President Joe Biden in May, Marcos cited the need to strengthen the partnership between the two countries in the post-pandemic economy and amid the tensions in the South China Sea and the Asia-Pacific and Indo-Pacific region.

MANILA (Mabuhay) — United States Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III reiterated that the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) between the US and the Philippines applies to Philippine public and government vessels and aircraft.

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Sen-

ate President Juan Miguel Zubiri on Monday said it's about time the Philippines develop and produce its own arms manufacturing company to avoid importation that depletes the country's

economy.

Speaking before the hearing of the Senate Committee on Defense, Zubiri said "while we value our defense cooperation with other foreign allies, we cannot rely on them entirely," adding

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Bangko

Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Eli Remolona said the government is monitoring potential risks to inflation such as the El Niño and its impact on rice importers, including Vietnam.

Inflation eased for the sixth straight month to 4.7 percent in July.

However, the price of rice has been rising and the commodity was identified as a potential source of inflation in the coming months, according to National Statistician Dennis Mapa.

Traders cutting rice imports amid high prices abroad

“Beyond that, there are also issues, geopolitical issues that make the region... the Philippines is, possibly, arguably the most complicated geopolitical situation in the world right now,” Marcos had said.

On Saturday, the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) illegally used water cannons against Philippine Coast Guards vessels going to the Ayungin Shoal on a resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre.

The PCG condemned CCG’s “dangerous maneuvers and illegal use of water

cannons” against their vessels escorting the indigenous boats chartered by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to deliver food, water, fuel, and other supplies to military troops stationed on BRP Sierra Madre.

It said that the CCG’s move not only disregarded the safety of the PCG crew and the supply boats, but also violated international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the 1972 Convention on the International Regula

ment after a phone call with Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. where they discussed recent events in the South China Sea,

Austin made the state-

that "overreliance on our allies leaves us on the back foot -- always waiting, and always dependent on what they will supply us with."

"Nakakaawa po na kailangan pa natin halos manglimos mula sa ibang

In a briefing with the Department of Finance on Friday, Remolona cited India’s rice export ban but he said he is more concerned with any future actions by Vietnam.

Vietnam is a significant source of imported rice for the Philippines.

“We’re more worried about Vietnam. Vietnam is number one… El Niño is beginning to hit Vietnam. Medyo 'yun ang mas worrisome,” said the BSP governor. The government is also implementing several interventions to mitigate inflation like intensifying the proper utili-

bansa, para mabigyan ng armas at bala ang ating mga sundalo. 'Yan po ang nangyari noong Marawi (It's a pity that we have to almost beg from other countries, to give our soldiers weapons and ammunition. That's what

happened in Marawi), we are very familiar with that. At ayoko na pong maulit ang ganyang eksena (And I don't want that scene to happen again).

Our brave men and women of the armed forces deserve more, and deserve

FILIPINAS AT THE SENATE. The Philippine women’s football team is honored at the Senate on Monday (Aug. 7, 2023) for their historic FIFA World Cup stint in New Zealand in late July, highlighted by a 1-0 win over the host nation. Senate

President Juan Miguel Zubiri and his colleagues handed Resolution No. 80, which commends and congratulates the Filipinas for their phenomenal performance, the Philippines’ first-ever appearance at a FIFA World Cup, men’s and women’s.

President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.

US Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III (left) and Department of National Defense chief Carlito Galvez Jr. (right)

Matea Mahal Smith Wins Miss Filipina International, Becomes First Winner of Filipino and Black Descent in Pageant’s 10-Year History

Matea

Mahal Smith, who was born in Coral Springs, Florida with family roots in Pililla, Rizal, Philippines, won the Miss Filipina International 2023 title in a glamorous, top-tier show in the prestigious International Ballroom of The Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California last Saturday, August 5.

Smith, 21, became the first winner of Filipino and Black descent in the 10-year history of the pageant. A student of Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience at University of Florida, Smith hopes to become a trauma surgeon and positively impact people’s lives.

Also the winner of the best in swimsuit competition, Smith said that she admires her Filipina mother who taught her that no matter what life throws her way, obstacles are a temporary challenge, not an end, in her journey. She loves traveling, cooking, exercising, dancing, spending time with her loved ones and listening to music.

As the top winner of MFI, now owned by Geoffrey Jimenez, who also executive produced the glittering production to be aired by GMA Network, Smith will receive a BMW 2 Series car and a $10,000 gift certificate from iSkin Beverly Hills.

Last year’s winner, Blessa Ericha Figueroa, put the stunning brand new MFI crown, made of Swiss blue topaz, Japanese pearls and other gems, custom-designed by royalty designer Narcisa Pheres, on the head of Smith. The crown was presented by Jimenez while Michelle Dee, the reigning Miss Universe Philippines, put the sash on Smith.

Amanda Russo, born in Christiana, Delaware with family roots in Angeles City, Pampanga, bagged the Miss Filipina International Tourism title. The 18-year-old Finance and International Business student at Penn State University also considers her mom as her biggest inspiration. She wants to give back to the Filipino community and find ways to better the lives of elders.

The other winners were Lauren Skeoch, First Runner-up; Patricia Bianca Tapia, Second Runner-up; and Rylen Faith Steinbuch, Third Runner-up. Russo and these winners will receive cash prizes and iSkin gift certificates.

In partnership with Jonas Gaffud’s Empire Philippines, three MFI winners will be eligible to compete next year in Miss Universe Philippines while two MFI winners will vie in The Miss Philippines pageant.

From a field of 36 lovely aspirants representing various states across America and several countries, including Canada, the United Kingdom and the Philippines, 15 semi-finalists were chosen: Denisse Nicole Samaniego, Dakota Swart, Hannah Angelica Marte, Mary Ann Monda, Rylen Faith Steinbuch, Kelly McIlroy, Beatriz Mclelland, Matea Mahal Smith, Kawena Ja-

nessa Kanhai, Lauren Skeoch, Patricia Bianca Tapia, Jessica Zemanek, Amanda Russo, Heather Casignia and Issha Rose Mata.

The winners in other categories and of sponsor awards were: best in evening gown, Manila International Film Festival Award and Enagic Water Ambassador, Beatriz Mclelland; photogenic, iSkin award and Philippine Airlines award, Rylen Faith Steinbuch; talent, Jessica Zemanek; best national costume, Hope Corpus; Miss Eloquent, Heather Casignia; best in glam, Mary Ann Monda; Jojo Bragais Walk + Win Challenge, Amanda Russo; and Legaspi Tax Ambassador, Alyanna Joelle Santos.

In the pageant co-hosted by Jeannie Mai Jenkins (“The Real”), who hosted the Miss Universe Pageant 2023 in January, and Cheryl Burke, a second-generation Filipina American TV personality, best known for the hit ABC reality show, “Dancing with the Star,” the Visionary Award was presented by Mario Lopez, via video, to Geoffrey Jimenez.

The chairman of Worldwide Media Entertainment and MFI owner was cited as “a philanthropist and true visionary who is passionate about helping his community to believe in the power of their dreams. He is not only a community leader but also an advocate and patron of Filipino talent, artistry and culture. With Miss Filipina International, Geoffrey has created a platform to amplify young Filipina voices and a home for future transformational leaders in our community.”

Jonas Gaffud, known as the “Beauty Queen King,” was honored by MFI with the Lifetime Achievement Award. The head of Empire Philippines, which holds the Miss Universe Philippines and The Miss Philippines pageants, was hailed for “offering young women more than just training. He offers them the courage to dream, the strength to persevere and the knowledge that they are capable of changing the world.”

The distinguished panel of judges on the coronation night included Michelle Dee, who will represent the Philippines in the 72nd Miss Universe in El Salvador in November; Hollywood actress Vivica A. Fox (“Kill Bill: Vol. 1,” “Independence Day” movies”); Krista Kleiner, Miss Philippines International title holder and philanthropist; Margaret Gardiner, Miss Universe title holder, author and entertainment journalist; Richard Maghanoy, iSkin Beverly Hills CEO and Image Body Spa COO; and Michelle Narvaez, Philippine Airlines

officer-in-charge country manager in the U.S. Also among the eminent judges were Marc Anthony Nicolas, twotime Daytime Emmy-winning producer of “The Talk”; Narcisa Pheres, MFI crown designer whose clients include former First Lady Michelle Obama, Beyonce, Madonna, Taylor Swift and Jennifer Lopez; Natty Pappas, shipping executive and consultant; Alden Richards, GMA’s popular singer-actor-host; Anton San Diego,

editor-in-chief of Tatler Philippines for an impressive 22 years; Voltaire Tayag, Miss Universe Philippines communications director; and Kathleen Espina Ynion, successful restaurateur and wellness advocate.

Francis Arden, a leading model and talent agent, and Paul Dreher, one of The Beverly Hilton’s directors of catering, joined the panel of judges in the preliminary competition, also held at the Hilton, last Friday, August 4. Accomplished and versatile perform-

ers Martin Nievera and Pops Fernandez co-hosted the equally spectacular prelims night.

Miss Ramonne and Terrell Carter performed musical numbers in the show which had multiple Emmy winner and P&L Media’s Lisa Lew, herself a Miss Philippines International title holder, as producer. GMA Network, which will air the exciting coronation night as a special, was represented by executives Joseph Jerome Francia, Joy Marcelo and Renze Banawa.

PECHANGA RESORT CASINO NOMINATED AS BEST CASINO OUTSIDE OF LAS VEGAS IN PRESTIGIOUS NATIONAL READERS’ POLL

It’s voting season. No, not for one’s elected officials or ballot measures. USA Today’s 10Best.com annual readers’ poll asks fans to vote for their favorite casino outside of Las Vegas in a national competition that kicked off Monday, July 31. A panel of casino experts has placed Pechanga in the competition every year since 2015.

Readers are asked to vote for their favorites and may do so once per

day. The voting period ends Monday, August 28 at 9 a.m. Pacific Time.

The USA Today 10Best Travel Guide readers’ polls asking guests to rate their favorite casinos have appeared in various forms since 2015. Pechanga took the number one spot of Best Casino in America that year. Following that, the publication split the poll into Best In Las Vegas and Best Outside of Las Vegas and added other related categories such as

Best Casino Restaurant.

Umi Sushi & Oyster Bar at Pechanga received second place in the 2018 Best Casino Restaurant poll. To cast a vote, visit the link: https://www. pechanga.com/vote. Click the “Vote Now” button and you will be helping Pechanga Resort Casino take one step closer to bringing the crown back to Southern California. Remember to vote every day.

About Pechanga Resort Casino Pechanga Resort Casino offers one of the largest and most expansive resort/casino experiences anywhere in the United States. Rated a Four Diamond property by AAA since 2002, Pechanga Resort & Casino provides an unparalleled getaway, whether for the day or for an extended luxury stay. Offering 5,500 of the hottest slots, table games, world-class en-

tertainment, 1,100 hotel rooms, dining, spa and golf at Journey at Pechanga, Pechanga Resort Casino features a destination unmatched in California. Pechanga Resort Casino is owned and operated by the Pechanga Band of Indians. For more information, call toll free (877) 711-2946 or visit www. Pechanga.com. Follow Pechanga Resort Casino on Facebook, Instagram and on Twitter @PechangaCasino.

The newly crowned Ms.Filipina International 2023 Matea Mahal Smith.

Photo by Gian Barbarona

The Hosts Jeannie Mae Jenkins and Cheryl Burke.

Photo by Ruben Nepales

The winners with MFI owner Geoffrey Jimenez. Photo by Gian Barbarona

The distinguished panel of Judges. Photo by Sthanlee Mirador

Two of the Judges: Michelle Dee, reigning Miss Universe Philippines and Filipino actor/ entrepreneur, Alden Richards. Photo by Gian Barbarona

WCOPA UAE

After strenuous efforts and suspenseful anticipation, the long-awaited World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) 2023 has finally come to an end last August 5, 2023. Being dubbed as the ‘Talent Olympics’, the 10-day competition has proven to be of splendor and grandeur. Unquestionably, team UAE has entered with the will to win. Hailing all the way from Dubai/ Abu Dhabi/ Fujairah, United Arab Emirates, they traveled hours and touched down in Anaheim, California.

The 13 delegates’ grit and determination were demonstrated when they started the process of auditioning and practicing—years for some, and months for others. With the help of our esteemed National Director and Vocal Coach, Mr. Elipas Sibua, each delegate has gone through the meticulous process of choosing songs for their also cleverly chosen categories. Having the skill in determining which songs would suit every individual’s unique tone and range, Mr. Elipas Sibua, was a significant support and source of encouragement for everyone. When everyone came together for a team rehearsal, it fostered a deeper sense of team spirit and amity.

Being a decorated and recognized Vocal Coach, Mr. Sibua has been blessed with the ability to impart knowledge and proficiency to his students and those he mentors. He has received the award of the 2022 Outstanding Coach of the World from WCOPA and the 2023 Excellence in Performing Arts by the Filipino Social Club World Trade Center. The team was certainly privileged to have him as our Coach and National Director.

Upon arrival, the team has proudly sported their grey uniforms. These have been donned throughout the competition to essentially repre

sent their team. Seeing the other nations in their own uniforms has undoubtedly heightened the excitement and friendly competition. It was really a sight that exhibited teamwork, unity and harmony between the competing countries. To celebrate the melting pot of different cultures, they have started the opening ceremony off with a Parade of Nations. The competition began on a high note as every team performed to demonstrate their eccentric cultures.

Ascertaining the competition’s reputation for opportunity was a Boot Camp held for one whole day during the competition. It has had activities and workshops for Singing, Dancing, Modelling and Acting. The delegates and

attendees have been given the freedom to select which workshop they wished to join. These were led by reputable teachers with much experience and advice to share. It was indeed a fruitful day of learning.

After a team photoshoot, day 4 marked the Preliminary Round of the competition. Within our team, 4 delegates have fiercely competed in the Instrumental Category for various genres and the Modelling Category. In spite of any nerves, the 3 Junior Delegates and 1 Senior Delegate have professionally performed with their instrument of choice. Each one has ensured their months of practice paid off and was evident in their performances. The 3 delegates who participated in Modellinghave passionately gone up the runway. Their elegant walks and beautiful visuals surely owned the stage.

The following 2 days were the Preliminary Rounds for the fierce Vocal Category in various genres for the Juniors and the Seniors. During the performances for both Instrumental and Vocal Categories, the delegates had to have costume changes to suit the genre of their songs. Wearing glimmering and eye-catching looks added to their already unique and powerful vocals andtalent. Some delegates only had a few minutes between each song which increased the tension. However, accredited to their professionalism, each one has successfully pulled through, further exhibiting their talent and immense passion to present a smooth and powerful performance.

Finally, the semi-finals came with 8 of our delegates making it to the next round after strong competition. The 8 delegates have once again proved their will as they have gotten ready to go on stage just an hour after the semi-final announcement. As always, the entire team was present during the semi-finalists’ performances cheering on their with much might and energy. Until the point of semi-finals, the delegates have consistently revealed their immeasurable talent and proven their merit of making it to the semi-finals.

It was once again another competitive and intense event. On the same day of semi-finals were the Go-Sees. This segment was where various talent agencies and scouts specifically selected delegates in recognition of their talents and offered opportunities to them. It further broadened the UAE delegates’ horizons as many of them were scouted by such agencies. Producers, modelling agencies, talent entertainments, film/

acting academies such as the New York Conservatory of Dramatic Arts, the New York Film Academy and the Eugene Model & Talent selected many of our delegates. They have been able to make the most of the competition by establishing these connections that are certainly helpful for their own careers.

Successfully, 2 of our delegates made it far into Grand Finals of the competition:

Chloe Sarah Dsouza (Junior) and Romulo Jr. Camarines (Senior). They, along with the other finalists, spent two days preparing for the Finals. Their hard work was sincere and absolutely evident in their performance during Finals Night. We can proudly say two of our delegates were Grand-Finalists! To the very end, the team has proven their camaraderie by cheering before, during and after their individual performances.

As the competition drew toward a close, Awards Day finally arrived. All of our delegates have been awarded medals for their successful performances, some even receiving plaques for being overall division winners. The delegates can now proudly come back home with their Gold, Silver and Bronze medals. Ultimately, all the effort and time

California Designates Three More Communities as Prohousing for Strides Made to Accelerate Housing Production

SACRAMENTO — Governor

Gavin Newsom today an-

nounced that the cities of Rohnert Park, Santa Cruz, and South San Francisco have earned the state’s Prohousing Designation making them eligible for funding incentives and additional resources as a reward for their work to reduce barriers to building more housing – bringing the state’s total to 30 Prohousing communities.

What Governor Newsom said: “These cities are showing the local leadership California needs to tackle our state’s housing crisis. They stand in stark contrast to the handful of locals who are failing their constituents and refusing to help California families struggling with runaway housing costs. We will continue to celebrate cities like Rohnert Park, Santa Cruz and South San Francisco while holding bad actors accountable with executive action and

in the courts when necessary.”

Why it's important: It is vital for local governments to cut red tape and implement policies that increase much-needed housing in California.

Accountability measures and incentives like the Prohousing Designation are critical to help meet the state’s goal of 2.5 million new homes over the next eight years, with at least one million serving the needs of lower-income Californians.

“We commend Rohnert Park, Santa Cruz and South San Francisco for their commitment to housing forward policies that will remove barriers to building and preserving affordable housing,” said Business, Consumer Services and Housing Agency Secretary Lourdes Castro Ramírez. “We are proud to work with these cities to create housing near jobs, transit, and other ame-

nities to build a strong housing market and provide homes to working Californians.”

“I’m thrilled that we now have 30 communities that have achieved the Prohousing designation,” said HCD Director Gustavo Velasquez. “The cities and counties are leading the way by reducing unnecessary barriers and red tape that discourage new housing production, instead they are signaling to developers that they are ready to support more housing production, faster.”

California is the leader in the Prohousing space. Last week the Biden-Harris Administration announced its own Pathways to Removing Obstacles to Housing program designed to provide funding to local jurisdictions to assist them in removing barriers to housing production and preservation.

spent for the competition were worth it. Being in the competition as a delegate myself, I can attest to how much the competition was truly a learning experience that has built our confidence as performers and as individuals. Founding connections and making friends from different countries have surely solidified the memories I have of the competition. To be surrounded by so much talent from all around the world was an honor and on behalf of the UAE delegates, we are all infinitely grateful for the opportunity and for all our family and friends who eagerly supported us.

The earned awards are as follows:

Chloe Sarah Dsouza (Junior, Age 11-12)

GRAND FINALIST (GOLD)

Gold Vocals Self Accompaniment in Pop

Division

Gold in Opera Silver in Pop

Bronze Classical in Piano

Romulo Jr Camarines (Senior, Age 30+)

GRAND FINALIST (GOLD)

Plaque- Champion of the World - Country and Western Division

Gold in Senior country and western solo vocals

Bronze in Senior Formal commercial wear

Jairamarie Ysabel Carranza (Junior, Age 13-15)

SEMI FINALIST (SILVER)

Gold in Gospel Silver in Pop Silver in Broadway Silver in Opera

Rex Carvalho (Junior, Age 13-15)

Silver in Rock Silver in Pop

Ruhann Hiranandani (Junior, Age 11-12)

SEMI FINALIST (SILVER)

Gold Vocals with Self Accompaniment Pop

Bronze Pop

Andrew James G. Muncay (Senior, Age 30+)

SEMI-FINALIST (SILVER)

Bronze Medalist in Opera

Johena Peñas Luczon (Senior, Age 30+)

SEMI-FINALIST (SILVER)

Silver Medalist in Opera

Bronze medalist in Gospel

Kim Bryalle Benoza

Frost (Senior, Age 30+)

SEMI-FINALIST (SILVER)

Silver in Vocal Contemporary

Silver in Runway Casual Modeling)

Bronze in Vocal Pop

Romnick Otoc Omagap (Senior, Age 30+)

SEMI-FINALIST (SILVER)

Charmyn Noele Binaoro (Senior, Age 25-29) Gold in Country &western Silver in Pop

Jean Allyssah Dimaculangan (Senior, Age 16-17)

Plaque: Champion of the World in Vocal with self-accompaniment Pop Division

Gold in Vocals with Selfaccompaniment Pop Silver in Instrumental Classical Piano Silver in Vocals in Broadway Bronze in Vocals in Gospel Bronze in Vocals in Open Bronze in Vocals in Jazz

Santino Antonini (Junior, Age 8-10) Silver in Classical Bronze in Jazz Bronze in Open

Zahra Ross Shariff (Senior, Age 16-17) Gold in Pop Gold in Contemporary Gold in Original Works Bronze in R&B

Newsom’s Statement on Fallen Firefighters and Pilot in Riverside County Helicopter Collision

SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom issued the following statement regarding the deaths of CAL FIRE Assistant Chief Josh Bischof, CAL FIRE Fire Captain Tim Rodriguez, and contract Pilot Tony Sousa, who were killed in a midair collision while engaged in firefighting operations on the Broadway Fire in Riverside Coun-

ty on Sunday:

“On behalf of all Californians, our thoughts and heartfelt sympathies are with the loved ones, friends and CAL FIRE colleagues mourning the loss of Assistant Chief Bischof, Fire Captain Rodriguez, and Pilot Sousa. This terrible tragedy is a reminder of the dangers our courageous fire-

fighters face daily while working to keep our communities safe. We owe them our deepest respect and gratitude and will always honor their bravery and sacrifices.”

In honor of Assistant Chief Bischof, Fire Captain Rodriguez, and Pilot Sousa, flags at the State Capitol and Capitol Annex Swing Space will be flown at half-staff.

Solis Leads Efforts to Foster the Educational Futures of Current and Former Foster Youth

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Today, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors voted to pass a motion spearheaded by Supervisor Hilda L. Solis to foster the educational futures of current and former foster youth by uplifting The Fostering Futures Program, which aims to increase the number of foster youth who attend college by providing them with a pathway to immediate financial assistance to greatly improve their economic and housing security.

"Tuition, housing prices, and the cost of living have skyrocketed. These financial burdens

force low-income populations to either incur large amounts of debt or forego pursuing higher education. Those obstacles are even more pronounced for foster youth, who often lack access to adequate counseling; intergenerational knowledge ─ and family support to navigate the college application process," said Supervisor Solis. "That is why I am so thankful that Governor Gavin Newsom signed The Fostering Futures Program into law as it will significantly benefit foster youth by providing the immediate financial assistance needed to encourage them to

enroll in higher education. Foster youth must be made aware of this life-changing program and supported in completing its lengthy application process. This motion seeks to do just that, provide the outreach and support needed to ensure that as many foster youth as possible access the free education provided by this resource. With the financial barriers to education lifted, more foster youth can receive technical certifications and college degrees that break generational poverty, provide economic security, and change lives."

MANILA (Mabuhay) — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said on Wednesday that he would advance the country’s energy security interest when he joins his fellow Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) leaders during the economic bloc’s gathering in San Francisco, California later this year.

“I look forward to joining fellow APEC Leaders in California later this year. This will be my third trip to the US since I assumed office,” President Marcos said during the courtesy call on him by the US-ASEAN Business Council in Malacañang.

“With energy security high in the economic agenda, we are particularly interested in sustainable land, water, and ocean solutions that align with our climate goals and support our plans to transform the Philippines into an upper Middle-Income Country by the year 2025,” he added.

“All efforts to increase the number of power sources lean towards clean energy. That being the case, I am interested in the potential of nuclear energy, especially in light of new technologies and innovations that allow the use of smaller scale, modular, nuclear reactors, and other advanced [reactors] technologies that we see as being safer and more efficient than the more traditional designs of nuclear power production.”

The Philippines, the President said, is actively participating in the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity and the APEC meetings leading up to the Leaders’ Summit in San Francisco in November.

Leading the charge are the ongoing discussions with the United States on the 123 Agreement, which will provide the legal framework for civil and nuclear-related investments, particularly nuclear power in the Philippines, he said.

Together with the United States and other partners, especially the private sector, the President vowed to build the necessary infrastructure to help power a growing economy, as the Philippines transitions to clean and renewable energy.

“We recognize the rule that we have set for ourselves that is the slow transition…. We all have great hopes that the transition to renewables will be easy or simple. It turns out that is not going to be the case and we have to be realistic in this regard,” he told the US-ASEAN Business Council delegation.

“And so, the rule we [applied] for ourself…is that we must be able to provide sufficient power for the development of our industry, sufficient power so that we can expand the economy, and it must be accompanied by a continuing effort to move our power sources from the traditional fossil fuels to renewable sources of energy.”

The President expressed hope to see more engagements involving both the government and private sector, especially in mobilizing financial resources for investments in key areas such as critical infrastructure, research and development, and human capital development.

Since 1984, the US-ASEAN Business Council has been the premier advocacy organization for US corporations operating within the dynamic Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Worldwide, the Council’s membership of more than 170 companies generates almost USD 7 trillion in revenue and employs more than 14.5 million people.

The Philippines Business Mission is an annual meeting of the US-ASEAN Business Council’s members to the Philippine government, with representatives from its member companies traveling to the Philippines to engage with priority stakeholders and reinforce the importance of US-Philippines business relations.

This is the USABC’s second in-person business mission to the Philippines since the COVID-19 pandemic. The last Philippines Business Mission was held on October 26, 2022.

Thirty American companies joined this year’s mission, the biggest delegation to visit the Philippines since they started conducting their annual business mission. This is also the first time that the Council met with a Philippine President in almost a decade. (MNS)

200 ex-MNLF, MILF members pass initial tests for aspiring cops

MANILA (Mabuhay) — A total of 200 members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) passed the physical and medical examinations to join the police force, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said on Monday.

PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said the former members of secessionist groups in Mindanao hurdled the neuro, physical and medical examinations but they would still be subjected to background investigations.

“Right now, there are around 200 of them who are included in what we call a clean list which means that

they already passed all the examinations being conducted in our recruitment process,” Fajardo told reporters in a press briefing held at Camp Crame in Quezon City. She said the former fighters were among the 1,000 passers of the special eligibility examinations as part of the integration process at the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) following the signing of a peace agreement under the previous administration.

“’Yung initially na 1,000 mahigit na isinalang dito sa processes, sa ngayon ang nasa clean list I understand nasa around 200

na lamang ang nakalusot at sa ngayon ‘yung 600 na sumalang dito sa process na ito ay tuloy tuloy pa rin ‘yung ginagawang complete background investigation so kahit ikaw ay napasama na dito sa clean list, ibig sabihin naipasa niyo yung mga process including the neuro psychological examination ay hindi pa ito sapat dahil hinihintay pa rin natin ‘yung resulta ng background investigation,” Fajardo explained.

The PNP earlier allocated 400 slots for former MILF and MNLF combatants, where all of them will be assigned at the Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO-BAR).

“The complete background investigation is still ongoing so even if you were already included in the clean list, this is not enough since the PNP will still find out if they have a derogatory record which is a ground for disqualification in the recruitment process,” said Fajardo.

Since the 400 slots allocated for PRO-BAR were not filled up, Fajardo said the regional office will initiate moves to complete the quota in the future recruitment process.

Fajardo also emphasized that the PNP does not see any risk in integrating MILF and MNLF members into the police force.

“The intention really is for them to serve the BARMM in order for them to be empowered which means that the cooperation and genuine concern for all the people of the BARMM will come from them,” said Fajardo.

In May 2022, around 7,000 of 11,000 MNLF and MILF members passed a special qualifying eligibility examination to join the PNP.

Fajardo said earlier they have started the processing of 1,000 passers who have been endorsed by the Bangsamoro government -- 700 of whom are from the MILF and 300 are from the MILF.

The applicants would have to pass the body mass index test, physical agility test, psychological examination, and physical and dental examination.

After their oath-taking, the successful applicants would undergo a one-year basic recruitment course and a six-month field training program.

Once they finish these courses, they would be given a temporary appointment status and would be assigned to the PRO-BAR.

The National Police Commission earlier said the age requirement for MILF and MNLF applicants shall not be below 20 and not over 35 years old.

One of the major requirements for the applicants to the special qualifying exams is a certification from the MILF and the MNLF that they are bonafide members of the organizations. (MNS)

better," he noted.

Meanwhile, Zubiri thanked the Senate Committee on National Defense as he expressed his support for taking up the Philippine Defense Industry Development Act (PDIDA), which he has been strongly advocating for, as a key measure in support of the country's ongoing efforts to build a credible and concrete defense program.

“Amidst growing national concern over our sovereignty, it is very timely that we now consider the merits of revi-

tions for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS), and the 2016 Arbitral Award.

The United States said China's attack threatened regional stability. Australia expressed concern over the incident, while Japan called it "unacceptable."

The Presidential Communications Office said the meeting between Marcos and Duckworth was an opportunity for the Philippines to raise the importance of US legislative support for common security and trade interests, including the enhanced assistance towards the modernization of the Philippines’ defense and civilian law enforcement capabilities, the immediate reauthorization of the GSP program, and the facilitation of other strategic trade and invest-

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including China's efforts to obstruct the Philippine resupply mission at the Second Thomas Shoal (also known as Ayungin Shoal) on Aug. 5.

"Secretary Austin condemned the China Coast Guard's use of water cannons and other dangerous maneuvers, which put the safety of Philippine vessels and crew at risk. He joined numerous countries in expressing concern about these unsafe operational activities, which undermine the status quo and directly threaten regional peace and stability," the US DOD statement added.

Austin, in a May phone call with then DND officer-in-charge Senior Undersecretary Carlito Galvez Jr., reiterated that any armed attack on Philippine ships and aircraft in the South China Sea would result in the invocation of the MDT.

talizing our Self-Reliant Defense Posture program and building a local defense industry that would supply the needs of our Armed Forces," he said.

Zubiri said the Philippines is among the top importers of arms in the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations), spending USD338 million in arms imports in 2021 -- next only to Singapore (at USD361 million), and Myanmar (at USD394 million). "Unlike Singapore, we have a great deal of resources

ment opportunities.

When it comes to the energy sector, Duckworth said the two countries could collaborate for the production of electronic vehicle batteries to meet the huge demand in the US.

Duckworth told the President that she met with Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga and Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla about the US' transition to renewable energy sources, including the present challenges it has been facing.

“So, for example, we’ve discussed at length about electronic vehicle batteries and we can’t get enough of them to meet the American market. And I can’t think of a better place to create a new manufacturing eco-

at our disposal. And unlike Myanmar, we are not operating under military rule."

A closer comparison would be Indonesia, he said, which in 2021 allocated 3.9 percent of its overall government spending towards military expenditure -- "not far from the 3.8 percent that we directed towards the military. And yet, Indonesia’s arms imports came in at only USD68 million, a far cry from our USD338 million. Indonesia’s defense industry has been growing so exponen-

system for the American market than here in the Philippines where we can work together to supply that market so that we can continue to make our switch to renewables as well. And there are many other places where we can work together,” Duckworth told Marcos.

“And again, I would rather have America’s manufacturing supply chain rest here in a nation that has been a long-time friend and ally, than in a nation that is our adversary or our competitor.

And so, I think there are lots of opportunities and we had a productive meeting," she added.

For his part, Marcos responded batteries are important because renewable energy, from solar and wind, are not constant. (MNS)

"Austin reiterated that the US’ commitment to the alliance remains ironclad and that an armed attack on Philippine armed forces, aircraft, and public vessels, including the Coast Guard, anywhere in the South China Sea, would invoke US mutual defense commitments under Article IV of the MDT," DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said in an earlier statement.

Under Article IV of the MDT between the Philippines and the United States, "each Party recognizes that an armed attack in the Pacific area on either of the Parties would be dangerous to its own peace and safety and declares that it would act to meet the common dangers in accordance with its constitutional processes."

The MDT between the two nations was signed on Aug. 30, 1951.

tially. In fact, the Indonesian government is now expecting to join the world’s 50 top defense companies by next year."

"We need to be able to produce our own needs, on our own time. We have the resources. We have the manpower and the skills. And I am quite hopeful that we also now have the political will to push this through. That is why PDIDA should come in, as a vital move towards a truly self-reliant defense program,” he added. (MNS)

zation of calamity fund and quick response fund, expediting measures to mitigate the impact of El Niño, and the timely importation and facilitation of rice imports arrival.

Remolona said these non-monetary policy interventions may also lessen the need for more tightening.

The BSP earlier hiked interest rates to temper inflation which hit a high of 8.7 percent in January. The country’s benchmark policy rate was kept at 6.25 percent.

When asked what could be the possible move of the Monetary Board in its next policy-setting meeting, Remolona assured the public that it would be “data-driven.”

The new BSP governor, who replaced Felipe Medalla in July, will join his first Monetary Board policy meeting on Aug. 17.

“We will analyze what the data says. How far the tightening has worked for the economy, how far it weakened demand in the economy. Tinitingnan namin lahat yun,” said Remolona. (MNS)

Austin and Teodoro also discussed the US-Philippine alliance cooperation and reaffirmed the "ironclad nature" of this partnership.

"Both Secretaries reaffirmed the ironclad nature of the US-Philippines alliance and committed to redouble efforts to strengthen bilateral training, interoperability, and support for the modernization of the Philippine armed forces," the US DOD stated.

They also reaffirmed their shared commitment to upholding the rules-based order, including supporting the Philippines' right to conduct lawful maritime activities, consistent with the 2016 Arbitral Tribunal Ruling, which is final and binding on all parties.

"The Secretaries commended recent bilateral military cooperation, including collaborative efforts to deliver

over 32 tons of humanitarian supplies to the remote islands off the coast of the Batanes island group and the mountain region of Cervantes, Ilocos Sur impacted by Typhoon Egay," the US DOD statement added.

Both defense chiefs noted that swift response was critical for the well-being and safety of thousands of Filipinos in these regions affected by the typhoon.

They also praised the use of the Lal-lo Airfield in Cagayan, a new Enhance Defense Cooperation Agreement location, in facilitating relief efforts.

"The Secretaries committed to find a near-term opportunity to meet in person and restated their commitment to stand shoulder-to-shoulder as allies to bring security, prosperity, and stability to the Indo-Pacific region and beyond,” it added. (MNS)

Marcos tells Philippines to brace for climate change after Luzon floods

ang climate change,” he said.

“I’m sorry. It’s really bad news and we all don’t want to deal with it, but we have to,” he added.

Marcos also noted that his home province Ilocos Norte experienced the worst flooding in 20 years when Typhoon Egay (Doksuri) pummeled parts of northern Luzon late July.

Pampanga 4th District Rep. Anna York Bondoc described the recent massive flooding in her province as the “worst flood since 1972,” with more than 198,000 families affected there.

She also said it was the first time she saw flooding on the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), which resulted in a traffic jam that snarled hundreds of motorists.

“I have never seen sandbagging sa NLEX,” she told Marcos.

The Philippines has been ranked among the countries most vulnerable to climate change, which experts said would make tropical cyclones more intense and destructive. (MNS)

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Senate Minority Leader Koko Pimentel on Saturday raised “serious concerns” over the proposed P10.142 billion confidential and intelligence funds (CIF) in the National Expenditure Program (NEP) for 2024.

“This budgetary decision is a huge mistake,” said Pimentel.

“It shows the lack of empathy and understanding of the real needs of ordinary Filipinos,” added Pimentel.

MANILA (Mabuhay) — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday called on his government and the public to prepare for the effects of climate change as he visited areas in Luzon that were hit by massive flooding from monsoon rains and recent typhoons.

“Kailangan nating paghandaan talaga itong ating tinatawag na

climate change. Nagbabago po ang panahon. Hindi sumusunod sa dati,” Marcos told hundreds of residents in San Fernando City, Pampanga, which was recently swamped with floods.

In a briefing with the province’s officials, Marcos also said that the government has no other choice but to face the challenges

posed by climate change to the country.

He urged officials to understand climate change more and create solutions that were “more attuned” to the present situation.

“Lahat ng karanasan natin tungkol sa panahon, wala na iyan. The weather is changing. Hindi na tayo babalik sa dati. Ganito na

Before meeting with local officials, Marcos led the distribution of food packs and P10,000 cash aid to 1,000 flood survivors in Pampanga through the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) Program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) also doled out P2.3 million worth of aid to 500 residents who lost their jobs to the massive floods and recent cyclones.

Gov’t to aid poor households pay their electric bills

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The government will begin rolling out next month its Lifeline Rate program that will aid low-income households pay their electricity bills.

The program is a subsidized rate given to qualified low-income electricity customers who could not pay their electricity bills at full cost.

Beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) or those living below the poverty threshold set by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) can apply for the program. Only one Distribution Utility (DU)/Electric Cooperative (EC) service per qualified household, however can be granted a lifeline rate.

Only one application for each household will be granted with the lifeline rate.

To apply for the program, beneficiaries should submit to the DU and EC their duly accomplished Lifeline Rate application forms, most recent electricity bills, and any valid government-issued identification cards with the signature and address of the applicant.

If the customer is living below the poverty threshold set by the PSA, the applicant must submit a certification from the local Social Welfare and Development Office (SWDO) issued within the last six months showing that the family income is below the poverty threshold applicable at the time of application.

The rollout of the program has been moved to September to allow qualified customers more time to register.

Data from the Energy Regulatory Commission showed that as of July 31 this year, there are only 12,829 household beneficiaries of 4Ps, out of the 4.2 million household members, who have applied for the Lifeline Rate program.

The Lifeline Rate Program validity is based on the annual certified list of 4Ps beneficiaries provided by DSWD.

Gov’t

A qualified customer is eligible to receive the Lifeline Rate if he or she remains on the updated list.

If delisted, the customer may opt to apply for a local SWDO certification if he or she is living below the poverty line and may reapply for Lifeline Rate.

For non-4Ps beneficiaries, Lifeline Rate will have a three-year validity from the date of issuance of certification by the local SWDO.

The power reduction rate varies depending on the prevailing rates of the DUs or ECs.

In the Manila Electric Company (Meralco) franchise area, lifeline end-users with zero to 20 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of monthly consumption will be granted a 100-percent discount on the

generation charges, including system loss, transmission, and distribution components of their bill, except for the fixed metering charge of PHP5, which means more or less only PHP20 from their electric bills will be paid.

If they do not avail of the Lifeline Rate through Meralco, they will have to pay more or less PHP250.

Under the program, customers who use 21-50 kWh will only pay more or less PHP300 while those with a 51-70 kWh consumption bracket will shell out around PHP522.90.

Those consuming 71-100 kWh meanwhile will only pay PHP904.21 instead of the undiscounted rate of PHP1,099.10 if they do not apply for the Lifeline Rate. (MNS)

The Senator also said, that “while our fellow Filipinos in calamity-stricken areas suffer raises serious questions about the government’s understanding of the real needs and challenges faced by our country.” According to the Budget of Expenditures and Sources of Financing (BESF) uploaded on the DBM website, the administration has allocated P5.277 billion to intelligence expenses, and P4.864 billion to confidential expenses.

The total of P10.142 billion is higher by P120 million from the P10.02 billion set aside for the CIF in 2023.

Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman said the P120 million increase in the CIF was due to the additional allocation for the Department of Information and Communications Technology, the Presidential Security Group, and the Anti-Money Laundering Council.

The past NEP defined intelligence funds as those “related to intelligence information gathering activities of uniformed and military personnel and intelligence practitioners” having direct impact to national security.

Meanwhile, confidential funds are those “related to surveillance activities in civilian government agencies that are intended to support the mandate or operations of the agency.”

Broken down, the biggest share of the proposed CIF will go to the Office of the President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. with P4.51 billion. The Department of Agriculture (DA)— likewise headed by Marcos—is also set to get P50 million.

Pimenter, however, said that more attention should be given to those affected by recent typhoons.

“The funds should be used to aid in their recovery and rebuilding... The struggles our countrymen endure day in and day out must be addressed through meaningful budgetary allocations that directly benefit the lives of our people,” he added.

JV Ejercito also concerned

On Friday, Senator JV Ejercito also expressed concern over the proposed CIF for next year. He noted how CIF requests are becoming a trend among government agencies.

“Sa ibang agencies, tatanungin muna natin kung saan nila gagamitin. Why do they need intelligence funds? Bakit parang nauso na, bakit lahat biglang humihingi na ng intelligence funds? We will ask them during the budget season for what purpose,” said Ejercito.

While Ejercito took special notice of the CIF requests of other government agencies, but the senator said some of them are justifiable, particularly the confidential funds for the DICT.

The DBM, meanwhile, noted that the confidential and intelligence fund is also at a “decreasing trend,” citing its percentage of share in the national budget in the previous years:

0.215% - 2018

0.192% - 2019

0.235% - 2020

0.212% - 2021

0.183% - 2022

0.190% - 2023

0.176% - 2024

Some House lawmakers also called out the intel fund allocations.

to still shoulder bigger share in MUP pension fund in proposed reforms — DOF exec

MANILA (Mabuhay) — As the Marcos administration moves forward with its plan to reform the military and uniformed personnel (MUP) pension system—including a proposal to impose mandatory contributions on all active and new entrants—the government will still shoulder a bigger share of the fund, a top official of the Department of Finance (DOF) said.

“We’d like to confirm that representatives of the economic team met with leaders of the House and we have an emerging consensus on the general terms,” DOF Undersecretary Alu Tioseco said at a weekly press chat with the Finance press corps.

“Definitely, we have an agreement as to the mandatory contributions,” Tioseco added.

Last week, Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez said the economic team and the officials of the House of Rep-

resentatives have reached a consensus on how to fund the reforms to the MUP pension system.

The DOF official explained that while the government proposes mandatory MUP contributions, “there will have to be a bigger government counterpart.”

“Definitely, there’s a bigger government share,” Tioseco said.

Under the current system, retired MUPs’ pensions are fully funded by the national government. These are also automatically indexed to the prevailing salary of incumbent personnel of similar rank.

The administration is pushing to reform the system by removing the automatic indexation among pensioners and imposing mandatory contributions on all active and new MUP entrants.

“So for every 5% that the MUPs put in, there will be a 16% govern-

ment share. For every 7%, there’s 14%; and for 9%, there is 12%. We have to emphasize and to put on record that for every contribution of MUPs, the government will be saving with the MUPs,” Tioseco said. “But for the percentage we still have to do the numbers,” she said.

“Also, some understanding on the indexation part but we have to double-check the numerical figure,” the DOF official said.

Also last week, Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman said the study on the MUP pension system would be finished within this month or in the next two weeks.

The reform of the MUP pension system was among the key measures cited by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. in his second State of the Nation Address on July 24. Tioseco said that while the House

leadership and the DOF reached a consensus for the reforms, these are only “general terms.”

“But on the specifics, the economic team will still sit down with the House and, of course, with other stakeholders because we have to run the numbers,” she said.

Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno jad said that the unfunded liabilities under the current pension system for MUP were already worth half of the country’s economy or around P9 trillion.

The Budget Department has earlier said that reforming the MUP pension system could free up P230 billion in the national budget, which may be used for infrastructure, livelihood, and other projects for the social sectors.

Diokno had also warned that failure to address the ballooning cost of pensions for MUP retirees could lead to a “fiscal collapse.” (MNS)

“Civilian offices and agencies with no business in intelligence gathering or law enforcement are given so much presidential pork in the form of CIF. For example, the Office of the Vice-President again is proposing P500 million confidential funds and the Department of Education is asking for another P150 million confidential funds, all under the control and discretion of the Vice President,” House Deputy Minority Leader France Castro of ACT Teachers party-list said in a statement.

Castro said the funds would have been better allocated to social services.

“Lubog na nga ang bansa sa utang at napakaraming mga social services na dapat pondohan pero mas inuuna pa ang pork,” Castro added.

House Assistant Minority Leader Arlene Brosas of Gabriela party-list, for her part, raised concern over the fact that the CIF allocation for the Office of the President (OP), a civilian office, is much higher than the Department of National Defense’s of P1.898 billion.

“Sa gitna ng matinding krisis, mababang sahod at kagutuman, patuloy ang paglalaan ng dambuhalang pondo para sa confidential at intelligence funds. Kaya mahirap sabihing ‘Agenda for Prosperity’ ng 2024 budget,” said Brosas. (MNS)

NBI forensic expert: Bone found in Bilibid septic tank likely from chicken, not human

MANILA (Mabuhay) — A forensic expert from the National Bureau of Investigation on Tuesday told a Senate committee investigating the alleged discovery of mass graves at a septic tank at the New Bilibid Prison that the bone recovered there was “not of human origin” but likely “chicken leg bone.”

Dr. Annalyne Dadiz of the NBI’s Medico-Legal Division revealed her agency’s findings to the Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights, which conducted a public hearing at the NBP. “Hindi po siya buto ng tao,” she told Sen.

Ronald dela Rosa. (It is not human bone.)

Upon questioning by Sen. Francis Tolentino, Dadiz said they conducted forensic identification through a process of elimination and comparison on the bone and concluded that it “was not of human origin.”

“In all likelihood, through the process of comparison, it is consistent with leg bone,” she said.

The revelation elicited a surprised reaction from Tolentino: “Ha? Chicken leg?”

Another team of forensic experts from the

University of the Philippines is expected to come out with their findings this week.

The alleged discovery of mass graves at a septic tank in Bilibid generated controversy, with both the House and Senate opening separate probes on the issue.

It started with the case of a person deprived of liberty named Michael Angelo Cataroja, who was reported missing since July 15.

The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor), on July 26, announced a K-9 dog who sniffed Cataroja’s clothing led them to a septic tank. They asked

the help of the NBI to help recover the body of the missing inmate.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla later that day said the body of a missing PDL was found decapitated inside a septic tank. More mass graves may be inside Bilibid, says Remulla He clarified his statement the next day to say the decapitated body was found in the area of Sputnik Gang, not in the septic tank. But he later admitted at a House hearing that he was a victim of fake news. (MNS)

Aerial view of areas affected by the heavy rains in Pampanga.

Pimentel on proposed P10.142B confi, intel funds: ‘A huge mistake’

PH rice supply to last even after El Niño — PBBM

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The country’s rice stockpile could last even after the El Niño phenomenon next year, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has assured the public. His assurance came after he met with industry players led by the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) and the Philippine Rice Stakeholders Movement (PRISM) at Malacañan Palace in Manila on Tuesday.

“The rice situation is manageable and stable. There is enough rice for the Philippines up to and after the El Niño next year,” said Marcos, who also serves as head of the Department of Agriculture (DA).

The El Niño phenomenon might persist until the first quarter of 2024, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration earlier said.

The President convened the meeting to discuss with stakeholders the status of the rice industry and measures to ensure sufficient rice supply in the country, Presidential Communications Office Secretary Cheloy Garafil said.

Garafil said the DA and PRISM presented to Marcos the rice supply outlook for the country until the end of 2023.

Based on a statement posted on state-run Radio Television Malacañang’s official Facebook page, the DA

also briefed Marcos about the country’s current supply situation, factors that threaten the country’s rice production and export, and the import trends and needs.

‘No need to panic’

DA Undersecretary Merceditas Sombillo said the projected ending stock for 2023 is 1.96 million metric tons (MMT), enough to last for 52 days.

Sombillo added that the Philippine Statistics Authority’s ending stock projection presents an even better scenario as it is expected to be 2.12 MMT, which would last for 57 days.

Palay harvest season is from September to November.

In an interview after the meeting, PRISM lead convenor Rowena del Rosario-Sadicon said the public need not worry because the country has enough rice supply until the end of the year.

“We don’t need to panic for anything else. Kalma lang po tayo (Let’s be calm). It’s very important that we are one in our objective to be positive on this. Mayroon po tayong sapat na bigas (We have enough rice),” Sadicon said.

G2G partnerships

During the meeting at Malacañan, PSAC lead convenor and Aboitiz Group president and chief executive officer Sabin Aboitiz expressed concern over

harmonizing data between private rice traders and the DA.

Marcos asked all sectors involved to hold a meeting and work on the basic data before discussions proceed to address rice supply, as well as rice importation.

“We need to have the right numbers so that we can respond properly in time,” he said, adding that

continued consultations with the private sector are needed to ensure that the country will have enough rice supply until the end of El Niño.

Marcos also assured that his administration is undertaking more government-to-government (G2G) engagements with its foreign partners to provide immediate attention to the country’s pressing concerns in the rice industry. (MNS)

Jobless Pinoys rise to 2.33M in June, but employed up to 48.84M

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The number of jobless Filipinos rose in June this year while employed individuals also grew amid the increase in those joining the labor force during the period, results of the Philippine Statistics Authority’s (PSA) Labor Force Survey on Wednesday showed.

At a press conference, National Statistician and PSA chief Claire Dennis Mapa reported that the number of unemployed persons 15 years old and above rose to 2.33 million in June from 2.17 million in May. As a percentage to the total 51.17 million persons in the labor force who are actively seeking work, the unemployment stood at 4.5%, higher than the 4.3% joblessness rate in May.

Despite the increase in unemployed persons, employed individuals grew to 48.84 million in June from 48.26 million in May, translating to an employment rate of 95.8% from 95.5% in May. This is due to the increase in labor force participation to 51.17 million from 50.43 million, the PSA said.

“Not everyone who participated in the labor force was absorbed into employment,” Mapa said.

“There were a variety of reasons. It could be that the skills of workers were not compatible with what firms were looking for. Jobsskills mismatch could be a reason. Meanwhile, there were others who were just waiting for job recall and

were not yet covered during the survey period,” he explained.

However, Mapa said the number of those who were able to land jobs — 581,000 — was higher compared to those who were unable to find work — 159,000 — during the period.

Similarly, underemployed persons — those who expressed desire to have additional work hours in their present job or to have an additional job or to have a new job with longer hours of work — increased to 5.87 million from 5.66 million in May.

This translates to an underemployment rate of 12.6% in June, up from 11.7% in May.

“This is the dynamics we were seeing… when the labor force participation increases, the employed also grows but sometimes, unfortunately, not everyone is absorbed as full-time workers, that’s why there was an increase in underemployment,” Mapa said.

Sectors The latest LFS results also showed that the services sector remained as the dominant sector in terms of number of employed persons with a share of 58.2%.

The agriculture and industry sectors followed, accounting for 23.8% and 18% share, respectively. In terms of month-on-month increase in employed persons, the following sub-sectors were the top five:

• Construction (488,000)

• Agriculture and forestry (469,000)

• Administrative and support service activities (308,000)

• Public administration and defense; compulsory social security (128,000)

• Accommodation and food service activities (104,000) Relatedly, the top five sub-sectors with the highest drop in employed persons were the following:

• Fishing and aquaculture (-233,000)

• Manufacturing (-99,000)

• Professional, scientific and technical activities (-65,000)

• Mining and quarrying (-62,000)

• Information and communication (-45,000)

Breaking down the distribution of employed persons by class of worker, wage and salary workers accounted for the largest share with 61.5% or 30.03 million of the total.

Self-employed persons comprised 27.1% or 13.24 million, while unpaid family workers accounted for 9.5% or 4.62 million of the total employed individuals.

Among wage and salary workers, employed persons in private establishments made up 47.6% of the total employed persons, followed by those employed in government or government-controlled corporations with 9.4%, while workers in private households account for 4.2%.

Meanwhile, the top five major occupations in terms of employment were elementary occupations (13.71 million), service and sales workers (10.69 million), skilled agricultural workers (5.98 million), plant and machine operators and assemblers (3.84 million), and clerical support workers (3.19 million).

On the other hand, the youth employment rate, among 15 to 24 years-old, was estimated at 90.1% or 6.45 million employed youth out of the 7.16 million youth labor force.

This was higher than the recorded estimate of 89.4% reported in May 2023.

Unemployment rate among youth was recorded at 9.9% or 711,000 out of the 7.16 million youth labor force.

In a separate statement, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said that “as the number of young workers continues to expand, the Marcos administration is exerting efforts to focus on training and upskilling to improve their employ-

ability for high-quality and high-paying jobs.”

Citing Chapter 4 of the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, the NEDA chief said that the plan outlines recommendations for equipping the young Philippine workforce with the necessary skills to enhance the income-earning potential of Filipino workers.

The plan also indicates that promoting further investments in technical and vocational education and training centers, digitalization, and innovation facilities is crucial for improving the skills and competitiveness of the Philippine workforce.

Balisacan said that this is critical, considering the entry of new and disruptive technologies.

“Modernizing training and vocational education facilities, as well as enhancing educational qualifications, competencies, and skills, are necessary to respond to the emergence of new demands for competencies and skills. These demands are a result of economic and technological transformations brought by emerging technologies in the market, such as artificial intelligence,” he said. (MNS)

effort between our Department of Public Works and Highways and, of course, Department of Labor, and TESDA (But in terms of the the skilled and unskilled labor, of course, this is in tandem with the Department of Labor on skills training and with TESDA.),” he said.

MANILA (Mabuhay) — More than three million jobs will be generated by the government’s infrastructure programs, highlighting the contribution of several projects in addressing unemployment and underemployment.

In a Palace briefing on Tuesday, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Manuel Bonoan said about PHP800 billion worth of big and small public infrastructure projects, or about 70,000 projects, have been allocated funding for this year alone. He said the projects will require over three million skilled, unskilled, and technical personnel on an annual basis.

The government intends to increase infrastructure investment from around 5 percent to 6 percent of the annual output to around 8 percent by the end of the Marcos administration in June 2028.

He said the government will be relying on the private sector for assistance on, among others, contractors and suppliers.

“But iyong skilled and unskilled labor, of course, this is in tandem with the Department of Labor on skills training at saka iyong sa TESDA [Technical Education and Skills Development Authority]… So, this is going to be a collaborative

Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma said during the same briefing that the goal to increase jobs is part of the Labor and Employment Plan 2023-28 in line with the 8-Point Socio-Economic Agenda.

He said DOLE also has its National Technical Education Skills Development Plan for 2023-28, which is being outlined with TESDA.

“Kasi mahalaga na makita na ang trabahong ginagawa ng ating mga kababayan, ng mga manggagawa ay dekalidad, pangmatagalan at hindi lamang temporary, at mahalaga na isa-alang-alang iyong talagang pangangailangan ng mga sektor o industriya na mangangailangan po ng mga manggagawa sa mga darating na susunod na panahon (It’s important to see that the work of our countrymen, our workers are of high quality, for long-term and not temporary, and meets the requirements of the sector or industry needing labor in the future),” he said.

In terms of workers’ pay, he is optimistic that with the demand for more skilled workers because of the infrastructure programs not only of the government but also the private sector, the increase in workers’ salary “will come naturally” given the rising demand for labor.

Laguesma added there are tripartite mechanisms that will assess workers’ pay and benefits. (MNS)

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. on Tuesday urged local government units (LGUs) to assist the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in its crackdown against campaign materials that violate election laws. This comes ahead of the start of the election period for the 2023 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) on Aug. 28.

In DILG Memorandum Circular 2023-105, Abalos said the DILG, LGUs, and other government agencies are deputized by Comelec through its Resolution No. 10924 to aid the poll body

in removing and tearing down unlawful election propaganda materials.

In the same DILG directive, Abalos also enjoined LGUs to provide Comelec with the necessary equipment for the removal of unlawful election materials; designate LGU personnel who will assist Comelec in the campaign; issue executive orders for the designation of LGU personnel/barangay tanod (village watchmen) and provide them with the necessary assistance to perform their role; and direct the designated personnel to coordinate with the Election Officer before tearing down unlawful election materials.

Section 240 of Comelec Resolution No. 10924 prohibits the printing, publishing, posting, and distribution of any form of campaign materials that do not bear the name of the payor or candidate who will benefit from the election propaganda printed or aired.

Posting, displaying, or exhibiting any election material outside of authorized common poster areas, in public places, or private properties without the consent of the owner thereof is likewise prohibited.

The election period for the Oct. 30 village and youth polls will run until Nov. 29 while the campaign period is set from Oct. 19 to 28. (MNS)

Gov’t infra projects to require over 3 million workers

LGUs urged to aid Comelec drive vs. illegal campaign materials

FDA: No ongoing application for Zuranolone use in PH

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said there is no ongoing application for the product registration of Zuranolone, the first oral treatment for postpartum depression (PPD), in the country.

In a statement Tuesday night, the FDA said it has not received an application for product registration through the Center for Drug Regulation and Research (CDRR).

NO APPLICATION. The Food and Drug Administration said Tuesday (Aug. 8, 2023) there is no ongoing application for the product registration of Zuranolone, the first oral treatment for postpartum depression (PPD), in the country. PPD usually occurs after childbirth but may also start during the later stages of the pregnancy. (Photo courtesy of Commission on Population and Development formerly PopCom)

Herbosa in favor of legalizing medical marijuana in PH

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Ted Herbosa said Sunday he was in favor of the use of cannabis for medical purposes, but not in cultivating and manufacturing marijuana in the country.

During a Kapihan forum, Herbosa said that medical cannabis could already be used by patients in the Philippines through a compassionate special permit signed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that would allow its importation.

He said medical cannabis would be beneficial for those suffering from cancer, glaucoma, and seizure disorder, among others.

“I’m for the legalization of medical use of marijuana, but I’m not in favor of cultivating marijuana plants for farming, and manufacturing kasi ‘pag ganon, wala pa tayong [if that’s the case, we don’t have] checks and balance,” Herbosa said.

“Hindi ko mako-confirm na dito tayo magma-manufacture kasi mapo-promote ‘yung pagplant. The reason for that is lahat

Health Secretary Ted Herbosa

ng gamot magiging imported. ‘Pag imported pa rin siya, madali mo siyang ma-control kasi ibig sabihin no’n medical marijuana would still be regulated,” he added.

In July, a Senate health and demography subcommittee ended its deliberations on the proposed Medical Cannabis Compassionate Access Act, with Senator Robin Padilla asking stakeholders and resource persons to support and help the panel in crafting the committee report through a technical working group.

House Deputy Speaker Gloria Macapagal Arroyo also filed a bill that allowed the use of cannabis for medical purposes. (MNS)

“Likewise, no noted clinical trial protocol of the said product for postpartum treatment has been submitted to this agency, to date,” it said. “In addition to this, there has been no application for a Compassionate Special Permit of the product from the CDRR as of the date of this press statement.”

The United States FDA approved Zuranolone use for PPD in adults on Aug. 4.

PPD is a major depressive episode that usually occurs after childbirth but may also start during the later stages of the pregnancy. It is labeled as a serious and potentially life-threatening condition,

which is characterized by sadness, guilt, loss of interest in activities that a mother used to enjoy, lessened ability to feel pleasure, and in some reported cases, having thoughts of harming themselves or their child.

Patients with PPD are recommended to take Zuranolone 50 milligrams once a day, for 14 days, in the evening together with a fatty meal.

Before the approval of Zuranolone as an oral medication for PPD, the only accepted treatment for the condition was available as an intravenous injection to be administered by a licensed health care professional in a health care facility.

“Should the Marketing Authorization Holder of Zuranolone submit the necessary documents for application for product registration, it will undergo the usual evaluation process prior to approval,” the FDA said. “Rest assured that the FDA Philippines remains dedicated to making novel medicines accessible to every Filipino.” (MNS)

DOH adds 7,200 ‘wellness warriors’ to support medical frontliners

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Monday said 7,200 more healthcare workers will join The Wellness Movement—-an initiative to promote the wellbeing of medical frontliners across the country.

For this year’s launch of the program at the Philippine General Hospital (PGH), DOH announced that 72 hospitals and 7,200 more members were welcomed to The Wellness Movement, which has already reached 50 hospitals in the last three years. The program, which now expanded to all regions except Central Visayas, blends scientific and practical approaches to help doctors, nurses, and allied health staff adopt wellness behaviors, like exercises on grounding, breathing, and gratitude during critical moments in their day.

In his message, Health Secretary

Ted Herbosa recalled the three-year progression of The Wellness Movement, which only started with five pilot hospitals in 2020, benefitting more than 4,000 healthcare workers. It expanded to over 50 hospitals by 2022.

“The Wellness Movement fits right into two points of the 8-point action agenda of the Department and aligns seamlessly with our endeavor to provide a humanistic approach in the work that we do—-the kapakanan at karapatan ng manggagawang pangkalusugan; and ginhawa ng isip at damdamin [welfare and rights of healthcare workers; and comfort of mind and feelings],” he said.

The DOH also introduced the Wellness Gadgets—a selection of tools specifically designed to seamlessly integrate wellness practices into the daily routines of hospital healthcare workers. (MNS)

Investment commitments from 5 countries to generate 75,000 jobs in energy sector, labor chief says

katanda, mayroon siyang binanggit na limang bansa bahagi na diyan ang Germany, ang Singapore, ang US at mayroon pang dalawa, Netherlands yata kasama din,” Laguesma said.

“Nabanggit n’ya na ito ay nasa proseso at mayroon siyang nabanggit na puwedeng malikhang hanapbuhay o trabaho, sana ay hindi ako nagkakamali, mga 75,000 iyong nabanggit niya doon sa limang nabanggit na bansang nagpahayag ng kanilang commitment.”

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is coordinating with the DTI, as well as with the Department of Energy (DOE) in connection with those projects to see to it that there will be enough manpower for the project implementation.

ang nagpaplano. Dapat maisama namin at maging bahagi ng aming mga ginagawang hakbangin tungo sa paglikha ang pribadong sektor ng karagdagang hanapbuhay nariyan iyong mga importanteng mga departamento,” he said.

“Nang sa ganoon ay tulung-tulong kami na matiyak na hindi mauunsiyami o hindi naman madi-discourage iyong mga nagplano o maglalagak ng mga puhunan –makita na nila na in place na iyong mga kinakailangan nilang imprastraktura kasama na rin ang manpower requirement.”

Laguesma presented to President Marcos Jr. on Tuesday the DOLE’s Philippine Labor and Employment Plan 2023-2028 (LEP) during a sectoral meeting in Malacañang.

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Around 75,000 jobs will be generated in the energy sector following the investment commitments of several countries as a result of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s trips abroad, Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma said on Tuesday.

Citing his conversation with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Laguesma told the Palace press briefing that several projects will materialize in the power sector, particularly in renewable energy as five countries have geared up to invest in the Philip-

PH eyes ‘A’ rating from debt watchers before Marcos term ends — Diokno

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno said the Philippines is aiming to get the highest investment grade rating before the end of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s term.

At a briefing with reporters last Friday, Diokno outlined the government’s “Road to A” program to achieve the government’s goal of getting an “A” rating from international debt watchers such as Fitch Rating, S&P Global and Moody’s Investor Service, among others.

Having an “A” rating gives the country access to loans with better interest rates. It can also make the Philippines more attractive to foreign investors.

Diokno said having an A rating could bring more investments and generate jobs.

“An A rating would affirm the Philippines’ credit-worthiness and would serve as a strong signal to local and international business and financial communities that the country is conducive to long-term investments,” Diokno said.

Marcos, during his visit to the New York Stock Ex-

pines.

“Ang isang magandang development na batay na rin ito sa aming pakikipag-ugnayan sa DTI at sa pahayag ni (DTI) Secretary (Alfredo) Pascual, mayroon ng magma-materialize at ito ay may kinalaman sa…aking pagka-

Laguesma added that different government agencies, including the private sector, are collaborating so that those projects will proceed smoothly and without delay.

“Hindi kami gumagalaw at hindi kami tumitingin na kami lamang

The LEP is in line with the 8-Point Socio-Economic Agenda of President Marcos and the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 aimed at reducing unemployment and addressing underemployment with better jobs. (MNS)

Philippine trade deficit narrows in June

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Philippine trade deficit continued to narrow in June even as imports contracted by double digits and exports posted only slight growth during the month, government data released on Tuesday showed.

Preliminary data released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) on Tuesday showed that the balance of trade in goods (BoT-G) posted a $3.918-billion deficit in June.

This is narrower than the $4.445-billion deficit in May, and the $5.877-billion deficit the same month in the previous year.

A deficit indicates that the value of a country’s imports exceeded export receipts, while a surplus indicates more export shipments than imports.

try’s biggest export partner for the month, with $1.12 billion or 16.7% of the total shipments. It was followed by China with $999.19 million or 14.9%, Hong Kong with $957.88 million or 14.3%, Japan with $945.52 million or 14.1%, and South Korea with $335.08 million or 5.0%.

Imports for the month were recorded at $10.617 billion, indicating a 15.2% decline from $12.521 billion in June 2022, and lower than the $10.918 billion in May.

The commodity groups with the biggest decreases were mineral fuels, lubricants, and related materials ($1.530 billion), electronic products ($2.109 billion), iron and steel ($340.39 million), organic and inorganic chemicals ($92.49 million), and other food and live animals ($71.22 million).

change last year, also said the country is aiming to reach the highest investment grade territory.

The Philippines has established an “Inter-Agency Committee on the Road to A” whose three-pronged strategy includes achieving solid economic growth, prudent fiscal management, and strong governance standards and institutions, Diokno said.

Becoming an upper-middle-income country and addressing infrastructure gaps are also among the country’s goals, he added.

“Our focus is on the medium term fiscal framework. They [rating agencies] need more institutional reforms, government reforms and we’re doing it,” he said.

Currently, the Philippines has a BBB+ credit rating from S&P Global which is one notch below the A grade, a BBB rating from Fitch Ratings and a BAA2 from Moody’s Investor Service, among others.

Diokno said the country did not suffer from any credit rating downgrade even during the COVID-19 pandemic. (MNS)

DBM, Landbank partner

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and Land Bank of the Philippines have forged a partnership for the use of a digital government card that would facilitate faster and cost-efficient transactions.

DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman and Landbank president and chief executive officer Lynette Ortiz signed on Thursday a memorandum of agreement on the use of a Government Purchase Card (GPC) that simplifies the purchase of goods and services by government agencies.

Under the MOA, the GPC can be used to pay for government agencies’ immediate miscellaneous expenses without going through the time-consuming paperwork and requisition process.

The GPC, programmed with pre-assigned credit limits and merchant restrictions, is a charge or credit card that will be issued and facilitated by Landbank to authorized government personnel, the DBM said in a statement on Friday. Its features include a 30-day revolving credit with full settlement on the due date; access to point-ofsale and e-commerce transactions; global acceptance; email alerts for all GPC transactions regardless of amount; and electronic statements of account.

Its benefits for government agencies include reduced admin-

for

Exports for the month stood at $6.699 billion, 0.8% higher than the $6.644 billion in June 2022, and 2.4% higher than the $6.473 billion in May.

The highest increases were seen in the exports of electronic products ($3.937 billion), cathodes and sections of cathodes ($179.55 million), copper concentrates ($93.64 million), ignition wiring sets ($220.20 million), and machinery and transport equipment ($230.50 million).

Exports of manufactured goods contributed the largest share to the country’s total exports with $5.49 billion or 81.9%, followed by mineral products with $660.07 million or 9.9%, and total agro-based products with $390.08 million or 5.8%.

The United States was the coun-

use of digital gov’t card

perwork; simplifying reconciliation processes; shortening the requisition process; and promoting employee convenience.”

Ortiz, meanwhile, expressed Landbank’s commitment to adhering to the responsibilities of good governance.

She said she is confident that the DBM would benefit from the use of the GPC to eliminate procurement lead time, facilitate quicker payments, and reduce administrative costs for purchases.

Electronic products accounted for the highest share in imports for the month with $2.11 billion, followed by mineral fuels, lubricants, and related materials with $1.53 billion, and transport equipment with $1.23 billion.

China was the biggest supplier of imported goods with $2.38 billion, followed by Indonesia with $1.04 billion, Japan with $841.75 million, Singapore with $762.33 million, and the United States with $696.28 million.

Total external trade for the month was recorded at $17.317 billion, 9.6% lower than the $19.165 billion the same month last year, and slightly lower than the $17.392 billion in May. (MNS)

OP seeks over P1.6-B for capital outlays for 2024

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Office of the President is seeking a total of P1,676,205,000 for its capital outlays expenses for the fiscal year 2024.

The amount indicated in the 2024 National Expenditure Program is 183.7% higher than the P590,794,000 budget for 2023.

istrative costs; enhanced control of expenses and cash liquidity management.

The use of the digital card is part of the DBM’s pursuit of digital transformation for the entire bureaucracy.

During the MOA signing, Pangandaman said the collaboration with Landbank is a milestone for cost savings and another step towards the achievement of bureaucratic efficiency and ease of doing business.

She said the GPC would enhance control because of its pre-defined

credit limit feature, expense capture and monitoring, and secure payment process.

“With the agreement signing of another game-changing digital initiative, the use of a Government Purchase Card or GPC, I would like to express my sincerest gratitude to the Land Bank of the Philippines for partnering with us and making sure that this initiative will be implemented at the soonest possible time,” Pangandaman said.

“It will significantly reduce administrative costs by lessening cash and check handling and pa-

“Landbank is certainly one with the DBM in the shared commitment of enhanced operational efficiency, transparency, and accountability in the disbursement of public funds. Through the GPC, we aim to further streamline the purchase of goods and services, thereby the delivery of meaningful and responsive public service,” Ortiz said.

DBM Chief of Staff Leo Angelo Larcia and Landbank senior vice president Ma. Celeste Burgos both signed as witnesses to the MOA.

Also present at the MOA signing were DBM Undersecretaries Wilford Will Wong, Maria Francesca del Rosario, and Goddes Hope Libiran, along with the department’s other assistant secretaries, directors and division chiefs.

The signing ceremony was held at the Landbank Plaza in Malate, Manila. (MNS)

The capital outlays include property, plant, and equipment outlay; land outlay; land improvement outlay; buildings and other structures; machinery and equipment outlay; transportation equipment outlay; furniture, fixtures, and books outlay; other property plant and equipment outlay; and intangible assets outlay.

According to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), capital outlays or capital expenditures refer to appropriations for the purchase of goods and services, the benefits of which extend beyond the fiscal year and which add to the assets of the government, including investments in the capital stock of GOCCs and their subsidiaries.

GMA News Online already reached out to the Presidential Communications Office and the DBM for comment on where this huge amount of money will specifically be spent but they have to reply as of posting time.

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s office is proposing a total budget of P10,645,573,000 for next year, which is higher compared to the P9,091,722,000 for 2023.

Part of the total amount was P1,222,391,000 for personnel services and P7,746,977,000 for maintenance and other operating expenses. (MNS)

Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma

Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno

Estate tax amnesty extension law seen to benefit 920K families

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The new Estate Tax Amnesty Extension Act is expected to benefit around 920,000 Filipino families with unsettled estates, a House of Representatives leader said on Tuesday.

Committee on Ways and Means chair Joey Salceda said the bill extending the period of availment of the estate tax amnesty until June 14, 2025 had lapsed into law as Republic Act (RA) No. 11956.

“Estate Tax Amnesty Extension is now a law, as RA 11956. Palace informed my office this afternoon. I thank President (Ferdinand R.) Marcos (Jr.) and I congratulate Speaker Romualdez, the leading driver of this measure, for another accomplishment,” Salceda said in a statement on Tuesday.

If the President does not act on a proposed law submitted by Congress, it will lapse into law after 30 days from

receipt. He said the new law is a “perfect fit” with President Marcos’s New Agrarian Emancipation Act (RA No. 11953), noting that it will benefit some 920,000 Filipino families who have unsettled estates, including the 610,054 agrarian reform beneficiaries recently released from debt.

“The amnesty is also consistent with the full estate tax forgiveness envisioned under the New Agrarian Emancipation Act, which was PBBM’s most significant legislative accomplishment on his first year,” Salceda said.

Salceda pointed out that RA 11956 covers the unsettled estates of decedents who died on or before May 31, 2022.

The law also provides for electronic filing of estate tax amnesty applications and limits the number of documents required for filing.

The law shortened the peri-

Philippine agri output contracts anew in Q2

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Philippine agriculture sector was unable to sustain the output growth in the first three months of the year as production contracted in the second quarter due to a lower fisheries yield, government data released on Wednesday showed.

Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) showed that the value of production in agriculture and fisheries contracted by 1.3% in the second quarter, following the 2.1% growth in the first quarter.

The PSA attributed the latest contraction to the 14.2% drop in fisheries output, with double-digit declines seen in bigeye tuna (tambakol/bariles) down 49.9%, skipjack (gulyasan) down 49.2%,

fimbriated sardines (tunsoy) down 42.2%, grouper (lapu-lapu) down 39.9%, and yellowfin tuna (tambakol/bariles) down 23.2%.

Declines were also seen in slipmouth (sapsap) down 20.6%, milkfish (bangus) down 19.1%, blue crab (alimasag) down 19.1%, squid (pusit) down 17.4%, mudcrab (alimango) down 15.5%, frigate tuna (tulingan) down 14.5%, and threadfin bream (bisugo) down 12.0%.

As a total subsector, crop production expanded by 1.2%, with the biggest jumps seen in mango (11.4%), cacao (4.1%), calamansi (4.0%), pineapple (3.8%), and onion (3.4%).

Declines were reported in sugarcane (-11.3%), rubber (-8.5%), sweet potato (-7.5%),

cabbage (-4.5%), eggplant (-3.6%), mongo (-1.9%), abaca (-1.8%), tomato (-1.8%), and corn (-0.8%).

Livestock production rose by 0.7%, with slight gains reported in hog (1.0%), carabao (0.5%), and contractions posted in dairy (-10.0%), cattle (-1.0%), and goat (-0.2%).

Poultry output climbed 1.5%, with chicken up 3.2% and duck up 7.1%. The production of eggs, however, dropped with chicken down 2.1%, and duck by 8.6%.

The country’s agriculture sector — currently led by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. as concurrent Agriculture Secretary — has posted a contraction in the past three years. (MNS)

od for issuing the implementing rules and regulations to 30 days from 60 days. Estate tax amnesty applications can also be filed electronically.

“It has many improvements compared to the previous Estate Tax Amnesty, especially as it makes the administrative requirements for filing much easier to comply with,” Salceda said.

Aside from the estate tax amnesty extension, he noted that “there is a pipeline of measures” that the House already approved, awaiting Senate approval.

“We will likely see at least two more pro-taxpayer laws enacted this year, including the Ease of Paying Taxes Law and the Taxpayer Bill of Rights. This will create the necessary balance between raising revenues for government programs and making the taxpayer experience less burdensome,” he said. (MNS)

DBM to hold roadshows on public financial management

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) will conduct a series of roadshows on public financial management (PFM) to help budget officers learn proper fund management.

Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman made the announcement during her meeting with officers and members of the Association of Local Budget Officers (ALBO) in Batangas province on Friday.

Pangandaman said the DBM aims to equip new budget officers with the necessary knowledge and skills to carry out their job, especially when it comes to managing the budget.

“Further, the roadshows will give proper guidance to budget officers for the proper interpretation of procurement laws, audit rules, and other pertinent policies,” the department said in a statement issued late Friday night.

During her meeting with the ALBO, Pangandaman acknowledged the budget officers’ crucial role in protecting public funds, as well as in executing the government’s programs and projects.

“Ako po, I always see to it po na makasama, makasalamuha ang ating mga (that I am able to meet with the) budget officers because of your important role po kasi po, ‘di ba, sa atin po ‘yung pera ng bayan na ating kailangang pangalagaan (because we have to protect the people’s money) and we have to implement ‘yung ating (our) projects as much as we can,” she said.

“Kami, in our own capacity, kasi may budget tayo, and may management din tayo. So ‘yung management side po ng DBM, ‘yan po ‘yung gusto nating palakasin (We, in our own capacity, have budget and need to ensure proper management. We want to strengthen the management side of the DBM).”

MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Marcos administration’s economic team is now reviewing the possibility of further extending the reduced import duties on various commodities to keep inflation tamed amid recent local and international developments.

“We’re reviewing the possible extension. We have to extend. Across all commodities,” Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno told reporters at his weekly press chat.

Signed on December 29, 2022, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. issued Executive Order No. 10, which extended until December 31, 2023 the reduced tariff rates on the following commodities: Meat of swine, fresh, chilled, or frozen at 15% (in-quota) and 25% (out-quota)

• Corn at 5% (in-quota) and 15% (out-quota)

• Rice at 35% (in-quota and out-quota) Coal at zero duty

At the same media roundtable, Finance Undersecretary Zeno Abenoja said the Inter-agency Committee on Inflation and Market Outlook (IAC-IMO) “has already started reviewing all these items… given the recent developments, typhoon and outside developments.”

“The IAC-IMO reviews both food and non-food sources of inflation,” Abenoja said.

Inflation or the rate of increase in the prices of consumer goods and services continued its downtrend for the sixth straight month in July, clocking in at 4.7% from 5.4% in June and its lowest in 16 months

since the 4% print in March 2022 amid slower movements in utility, food, and transport prices.

The IAC-IMO is a body created by Marcos Jr. to craft strategies to mitigate inflation in the country and to keep it within the government’s target range of 2% to 4%.

The inter-agency body is cochaired by the secretaries of the Department of Finance (DOF) and the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), while the Secretary of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) serves as the vice-chairperson.

Members of the IAC-IMO include the Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

The DOF serves as the committee’s Secretariat.

Economic team mulling another extension of EO on reduced tariffs — Diokno

“We [DOF] are participating in that review… We don’t want to pre-empt the result of that review [as] it involves both the industry and other private sector participation,” Abenoja said.

The EO 10 extended further the EO 171, issued by former President Rodrigo Duterte, which extended the effectivity of the reduced tariff rates under EO Nos. 134 and 135, and reduced the tariff rates on cord and coal until December 31, 2022.

Meanwhile, EO Nos. 134 and 135 temporarily modified the rates of import duty on meat of swine (fresh chilled or frozen) until May 17, 2022 and rice until June 1, 2022. (MNS)

DBM Undersecretaries Wilford Will Wong and Goddes Hope O. Libiran, as well as DBM Region 4-A (Calabarzon) Director Nympha Manalastas, were also present during the meeting with the ALBO.

On May 30, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. issued Executive Order (EO) 29, directing all government offices to adopt and implement an integrated financial management information system (IFMIS) in the processing of their transactions.

The directive contained in EO 29 covers all departments, agencies and instrumentalities of the national government, including government-owned or -controlled corporations (GOCCs) to strengthen the integration of PFM information systems and streamline processes.

The new order will pave the way for the full digitalization of PFM processes through the IFMIS.

According to EO 29, the full adoption of IFMIS would ensure strict compliance with existing appropriations laws, rules and regulations; improve treasury cash management; facilitate the generation of financial reports; and ease reportorial requirements from the various levels of government. (MNS)

PH inflation hits 16-month low at 4.7% in July

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Headline inflation hit a 16-month low in July, settling at 4.7 percent from 5.4 percent in June, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported on Friday.

In a briefing, National Statistician Dennis Mapa said last month’s headline inflation was down from 6.8 percent in the same month last year and the lowest recorded since 4 percent in March 2022.

Core inflation, which excludes volatile oil and food items, also went down to 6.7 percent from 7.4 percent in June.

According to Mapa, the continued downtrend of overall inflation during the month was mainly due to the slower year-on-year increase in housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels at 4.5 percent from 5.6

percent in June due to the slower price increase in electricity, house rentals, and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).

“The slower annual increment observed in the heavily weighted food and non-alcoholic beverages at 6.3 percent in July 2023 from 6.7 percent in the previous month also contributed to the downward trend of headline inflation,” Mapa said.

He said another main source of deceleration was transport, recording a faster annual decrease of -4.7 percent from -3.1 percent in June.

Year to date, headline inflation settled at 6.8 percent while core inflation was at 7.6 percent.

Inflation in the National Capital Region (NCR), meanwhile, remained at 5.6 percent.

In areas outside the NCR, inflation decelerated to 4.4 percent from 5.3 percent in June.

For the bottom 30 percent of households, inflation likewise fell to 5.2 percent from 6.1 percent in the previous month.

In a Viber message to reporters, Department of Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno said the latest data shows that inflation could settle within the government’s target by the end of this year.

“This (is) the sixth consecutive month that inflation has eased, strongly supporting the likelihood that inflation might be within the 2 to 4 percent target range by the fourth quarter of 2023,” Diokno said.

National Economic and Development Authority Secretary Arsenio

Balisacan, however, said despite the continued downtrend, the government is proactively monitoring the supply and demand situation of key commodities to achieve the 2 percent to 4 percent inflation target by the end of the year.

“While we continue to experience a downtrend in inflation, we need to be vigilant, especially as we face increasingly volatile weather disturbances, as well as external headwinds, such as oil price increases and trade restrictions on food,” Balisacan said in a separate statement. He noted that to ensure that the current weather disturbances would not have a lingering impact on inflation and the economy for the rest of the year, the government has proactively taken steps to deploy its re-

sources to affected areas, as well as prepare its policy and on-the-ground response as it expects more typhoons and weather disturbances from the El Niño.

“The government will implement necessary measures to prevent price spikes, protect the purchasing power of Filipino families, and sustain our economic recovery and momentum,” he said.

According to Balisacan, the Inter-Agency Committee on Inflation and Market Outlook and the Economic Development Group held a joint meeting on July 20 to discuss proposed policy adjustments that seek to ensure a more stable supply of agricultural products to meet the demand of different users and end-consumers adequately. (MNS)

Rep. Joey Salceda

Katrina Halili shares sneak peek of her ‘The Black Rider’ character

Overwhelmed with emotions, Robi Domingo inks new contract with ABS-CBN

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Kapamilya host Robi Domingo couldn't hold back tears as he recently renewed his contract with ABS-CBN.

Asked about the reason behind his emotions, he said: “It’s everything. First of all, I am just happy seeing the video [tribute for me], seeing my bosses. It’s more of ang daming nangyayari ngayon to say the least.”

Without going into details, he added: “Parang ngayon ko nakukuha na ano ba 'yung mga bagay na importante, at 'yung importante ay to be there especially in times of need. Ngayon ko nakukuha 'yun.”

Domingo explained he is just genuinely happy that ABS-CBN continues to have faith in him.

“I am just filled with emotions siguro because I am so happy na patuloy ang tiwala ng ABS-CBN and I hope to share this happiness with my fiancé too,” he said.

With his fresh contract secured, Domingo opened up about the dream projects he hopes to achieve in the future.

“I want to host a game show na about knowledge naman. I think it’s high time for us naman to bring back the golden age of game shows kung saan people would be rewarded because they know stuff,” he said.

“Parang there was a time na puro teleserye and I’m up for it because 'yun ang kailangan at that time. Ngayon, we need thinking Filipinos. To do that, we need to bring back game shows. I am one of the people who would want to mount that too.”

In addition, Domingo mentioned his willingness to take on acting projects too. “In the future I would love to also do some -- not rom-com pero 'yung mga sitcom,” he said.

Domingo is one of the top hosts ABS-CBN has produced from his generation. (MNS)

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Kapamilya

star Alexa Ilacad has earned a Gawad Buhay mid-year citation for her performance in the musical "Walang Aray," which also marked her theater debut.

The actress was included in the Female Lead Performance in a Musical category, along with her fellow "Walang Aray" cast members Marynor Madamesila and Shaira Opsimar. This gives them chance to qualify in the final list of Gawad Buhay nominees. From there, a jury will decide on the winners. This list of Gawad Buhay midyear citations covers productions from January 1 to 31 of this year. The new rules differentiate a rerun from a restaging, with the former not eligible for the awards. A rerun has been defined as a repeat of a previous production, while a restaging should have "radical" changes in direction and design.

Below are the newest recipients of Gawad Buhay mid-year citations:

OUTSTANDING ORIGINAL SCRIPT

Guelan Luarca ("Nekropolis")

Mikaela Regis ("Unica Hijas")

OUTSTANDING BOOK OF A MUSICAL

Rody Vera ("Walang Aray")

OUTSTANDING ORIGINAL SCORE

Rody Vera and Vince Lim ("Walang Aray")

OUTSTANDING MUSICAL DIRECTION

Vince Lim ("Walang Aray")

OUTSTANDING CHOREOGRAPHY

Gio Gahol ("Walang Aray")

OUTSTANDING COSTUME DESIGN

Jaylo Conanan ("Walang Aray")

Mark Daniel Dalacat ("Red")

OUTSTANDING LIGHTING DESIGN

D Cortezano ("Laro")

D Cortezano ("Nekropolis")

David Esguerra ("Walang Aray")

Gabo Tolentino ("Red")

OUTSTANDING SOUND DESIGN

Jose Buencamino ("Red")

Happy Constantino ("Walang Aray")

Arvy Dimaculangan ("Laro")

Arvy Dimaculangan ("Nekropolis")

Mijon Tangye ("Unica Hijas")

OUTSTANDING SET DESIGN

Mark Daniel Dalacat ("Red")

Julio Garcia ("Walang Aray")

Tata Tuviera ("Nekropolis")

Tata Tuviera ("Unica Hijas")

FEMALE LEAD PERFORMANCE IN A PLAY

Joy delos Santos ("Unica Hijas")

Ash Nicanor ("Unica Hijas")

Justine Peña ("Lungs")

MALE LEAD PERFORMANCE IN A PLAY

Reb Atadero ("Lungs")

CHUCKIE

Katrina Halili is making her action series comeback soon with “The Black Rider!”

On Instagram, the Kapuso star shared photos of herself on a motorcycle, complete with riding gear. “Romana!” she wrote in the caption, along with the hashtag #BlackRiderSoon.

Katrina joins fellow Kapuso stars Ruru Madrid, Kylie Padilla, Joem Bascon, Rainier Castillo, and more for the upcoming series.

Last month, they underwent mixed martial arts training in preparation for the action-packed series. Other cast members for "The Black Rider" include Matteo Guidicelli, Raymart Santiago, Gary Estrada, Zoren Legaspi, Rio Locsin, Gladys Reyes, Kim Perez, Luis Hontiveros, Saviour Ramos, and more. (MNS)

Joshua Garcia takes culinary lessons

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Kapamilya actor

Joshua Garcia has discovered a new way to spend his leisure time by enrolling in a culinary class.

He proudly shared on his Instagram Stories that he is taking extra measures to excel in the kitchen, attending a class conducted by chef Gene Gonzales at the Center for Asian Culinary Studies Manila.

Gonzales himself expressed admiration for Garcia, mentioning how great he was as a student on his first day.

“Proud to handle the first day of our new student, Joshua Garcia... Great Stamina considering he did 2 days’ worth of lectures and lab work today,” Gonzales captioned his post.

Garcia also shared some photos of the dishes he prepared and the process he followed to create them.

Recently, he has been showcasing photos and videos of himself cooking various dishes for French-Filipino athlete Emilienne Vigier, who fondly refers to him as "my person."

Garcia is just one of the many celebrities who are exploring their passion for cooking and expanding their expertise in this artful craft.

The others include Jodi Sta. Maria, Sarah Geronimo, Sofia Andres and more. (MNS)

MANILA (Mabuhay) — Jackie Lou Blanco is ecstatic to work with longtime friend Sharon Cuneta and “Start-Up PH” co-star Alden Richards on the upcoming movie “A Mother and Son’s Story.”

On Instagram, the actress posted some photos on set and then reflected on their time together.

“When I was asked to be part of this project, [I] immediately said [yes!]” Jackie said.

“Makasama ko lang uli si @ reallysharoncuneta Sharon or Mama as we fondly call each other, [panalong] panalo na ako,” she said. “With @aldenrichards02 pa who is very dear to me. What a blessing!”

Aside from “Start-Up PH,” Jackie Lou was recently part of the series “Luv Is: Love at First Read.”

Jackie Lou and Sharon also released a song and music video titled “Friends” last February.

Directed by Nuel Naval, “A Mother and Son’s Story" is an official entry to the Metro Manila Film Festival 2023.

Sharon and Alden enjoyed working on the film, and have formed a special mother and son bond. (MNS)

JC Santos ("Red") Brian Sy ("Lungs")

FEMALE FEATURED

PERFORMANCE IN A PLAY

Mitzi Comia ("Nekropolis")

MALE FEATURED

PERFORMANCE IN A PLAY

Jojo Cayabyab ("Laro")

Gio Gahol ("Laro")

Al Gatmaitan ("Laro")

Jeremy Mayores ("Laro")

Phi Palmos ("Laro")

Ross Pesigan ("Laro") Marco Viaña ("Nekropolis")

FEMALE LEAD PERFORMANCE IN A

MUSICAL

Alexa Ilacad ("Walang Aray")

Marynor Madamesila ("Walang Aray")

Shaira Opsimar ("Walang Aray")

MALE LEAD PERFORMANCE IN A MUSICAL

Jon Abella ("Walang Aray")

Gio Gahol ("Walang Aray")

FEMALE FEATURED PERFORMANCE IN A

MUSICAL

Kiki Baento ("Walang Aray")

Neomi Gonzales ("Walang Aray")

MALE FEATURED PERFORMANCE IN A

MUSICAL

Nelsito Gomez ("Breakups and Breakdowns")

Bene Manaois ("Walang Aray")

Carlon Matobato ("Walang Aray")

Johnnie Moran ("Walang Aray")

OUTSTANDING ENSEMBLE PERFORMANCE FOR A PLAY

"Laro" (Barefoot Theatre Collaborative)

"Nekropolis" (Tanghalang Pilipino)

OUTSTANDING ENSEMBLE PERFORMANCE FOR A MUSICAL

"Walang Aray" (PETA)

OUTSTANDING STAGE DIRECTION FOR A

PLAY

Pat Valera ("Unica Hijas")

John Mark Yap ("Laro")

Charles Yee ("Nekropolis")

OUTSTANDING STAGE DIRECTION FOR A

MUSICAL

Ian Segarra ("Walang Aray")

OUTSTANDING PRODUCTION OF EXISTING

MATERIAL FOR A PLAY

"Laro" (Barefoot Theatre Collaborative)

"Lungs" (The Sandbox Collective)

"Red" (The Necessary Theatre)

OUTSTANDING PLAY - ORIGINAL OR

TRANSLATION/ADAPTATION

"Nekropolis" (Tanghalang Pilipino)

OUTSTANDING MUSICAL - ORIGINAL OR

TRANSLATION/ADAPTATION

"Walang Aray" (PETA) (MNS)

Alexa Ilacad gets Gawad Buhay mid-year citation for 'Walang Aray'

ALEXA ILACAD

ROBI DOMINGO

KATRINA HALILI JOSHUA GARCIA

Jackie Lou Blanco with longtime friend Sharon Cuneta and Alden Richards