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Palace refutes Bloomberg study, says Philippines managed COVID-19 outbreak ‘very well’
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Malacañang on Thursday refuted the assessment by US-based company Bloomberg which placed the Philippines near the bottom of its COVID resilience ranking, arguing the government has handled the viral outbreak effectively.
Bloomberg ranked the Philippines 46th out of 53 countries based on 10 key metrics, including increase in cases, mortality rate, healthcare system capacity, lockdown impact, community mobility, and agreements on vaccine supply.
According to Bloomberg, the Philippines scored poorly when it came to community mobility—the “movement of people to offices and retail spaces compared to a pre-pandemic baseline in the past month”—with a -39.4% score.
Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said he has yet to study the report even as he touted the government measures that resulted in a relatively low mortality rate for COVID-19 and a small percentage of severe and critical cases.
“Tingin ko parang hindi po accurate ‘yan sa aktwal na nangyari,” Roque said at a news conference in Quezon. “Pinaninindigan po natin that we have managed COVID-19 very well in this country.”
‘Not a race among countries’
Dr. Albert Domingo, a consultant at the World Health Organization Philippines, said the fight against the pandemic is not supposed to be a race among countries.
“This is more of like a marathon kung saan ang laban natin is laban sa ating sariling performance. Kung tayo po ay tumatakbo sa isang mahaba na takbuhan na marathon, hindi mo pinapansin kung nauuna ka o nahuhuli ka doon sa katabi mong tumatakbo,” he said.
“Ang pinapansin po natin is nadaig ba natin ‘yung dating oras natin, mas mabilis ba ‘yung takbo natin, nagagawa ba natin ‘yung pinakamahusay sa ating paraan.”
Domingo said defeating COVID-19 is a global effort.
National Task Force Against COVID-19 chief implementer Carlito Galvez Jr. added it’s hard to make a comparison between nations.
“’Yung geospatial at tsaka ‘yung tinatawag natin na demographic conditions ng isang country ay magkakaiba,” he said.
The Philippines implemented one of the world's longest and strictest lockdowns, with quarantine classifications for December expected to be announced by President Rodrigo Duterte on November 30.
The country has so far reported 422,915 COVID-19 cases, including 386,955 recoveries and 8,215 deaths. (MNS)
DPWH issues show-cause orders to personnel tagged in alleged irregularities
MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has issued show-cause orders to personnel allegedly involved in irregularities, Secretary Mark Villar said Wednesday.
The DPWH had long been aware of possible corruption within its ranks prior to President Rodrigo Duterte’s order for the agency to be investigated.
“We know it exists in government. We do our best to manage it and I think that, initially when I first came, I realized that it’s a systemic problem that requires a systemic solution to minimize,” Villar said.
“As of today, I think more than 11 show-cause orders have already been given so this is part of the process… If there’s found to be cause, then we can institute a suspension,” he added.
As part of efforts to combat corruption, the DPWH said it shifted to a computerized project management system and now uses satellite technology to monitor projects.
It also blacklisted 25 contractors.
The Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission earlier said “less than 12” congressmen were involved in corruption in the DPWH.
However, Duterte said he could not probe the lawmakers allegedly involved in corruption as they belong to a coequal branch of government, a statement that earned the ire of detained Senator Leila de Lima. (MNS)
Legarda stresses need to revisit dam protocols following Cagayan fl oods the elevator, she used her minimal knowl- thus losing to Borgov again. She then left LIGHTHOUSE... frOm PaGE 5 MANILA (Mabuhay) — Deputy edge of Russian to eavesdrop on Soviet rounding communities. for Paris and went back home to Kentucky Speaker Loren Legarda on Thursday world champion, Vasily Borgov and two "Bago [magpakawala] ng tubig ang only to discover that her adoptive father, stressed the need for dam operators to update their protocols after the massive flooding in Cagayan and Isabela, which was partly blamed on the release of water from Maga Dam. "I believe all dams including associates, who related her story to them seemingly underestimating her and that he knew she was an orphan and a survivor like them. The following day, Beth played Borgov after an intense game and loses to him. Upon returning to her room, she found out that Manuel had abandoned dam operator, ito ba ay nakitugma sa Pag-asa? Sinukat ba ang pagbagsak ng ulan at inabisuhan ba sa simpleng pamamaraan na maiintindihan ng mga local na pamahalaan?" she said. "Sapat ba ang panahon para ilikas Mr. Wheatley had returned home and was trying to extort money from her by urging her to buy the house. It was during this time when she plunges into her substance abuse spiral that even Beltik couldn't rescue her after she passed out in her living room, only to be awakened by Jolene who Magat Dam should update their proMrs. Wheatley and she died of hepatitis, ang mga tao sa Cagayan Valley?" she was ringing at her door. tocols. I am not saying that they did apparently from excess drinking. added.Jolene arrived to inform her of Mr. Shainot update. That's why an inquiry is Tired of travelling, Beth went back home Legarda recalled that when she bel's death. They both attended the funeral in order," Legarda said. to Kentucky and reconnects with Harry was still a senator, an investigation and Beth returned to see the orphanage According to Legarda, revisiting Beltik, the former state champion she also took place as to the contribution but was moved to tears, when she found a dam protocols would allow audefeated five years prior. Beltik moved in of dams and other water reservoirs wall of all the newspaper clippings he made thorities to check if the water being with her in her Wheatley house to accom- in the massive flooding during the for her, along with a photograph of them released would not not pany her and they both spent time training onslaught of Tropical Storm Ondoy together during her time at the orphanage. cause further and getting close until Beltik realized that in 2009.Finally, she went back to Russia to play damage to Beth's obsession with chess will always "Ondoy [poured a bigger volume in the prestigious Moscow Invitational. sursupersede any relationship they may have, of water] but the destruction in 2020 The final game is with Borgov and she surso they parted ways, but Beltik must have taught Beth all he can, so when she entered the 1967 US championship, where she reunited with Benny Watts, and on the evening prior to the match, Benny challenged her to several rounds of speed chess in front of a large crowd of tournament with Ulysses was much, much more. So we can see that there should be a revisit of the dam protocols," she said. The House Committee on Agriculture and Food and on North prised him by playing the Queen's Gambit and the game becomes adjourned after 40 moves. That same evening, Townes visited her in her hotel and the following morning, Beth received a phone call from Benny who has assembled a team which included Beltik. Upon realizing that her community of attendees. Then, he was able to beat her in Luzon Growth Quadrangle on Luzon Growth Quadrangle on supporters proved the adjourned position all the rounds, but didn't realize that Beth Tuesday began its inquiry on of her match with Borgov, she was grateful used the opportunity to learn on his weak- the massive flooding in Cafor the help of her friends and when the nesses, thus winning her victory over him gayan and Isabela. match returned that evening, she finally the next day, and they ended up discussing In the said inquiry, National defeated Borgov in the adjourned game. Beth's future in upcoming international Irrigation Administration chief On her way back to the airport, she gets competitions. Ricardo Visaya maintained that out of the car and walks around the city and
Benny ended up inviting Beth to train the opening of the water gates of finds a number of old men playing chess. for the Paris Tournament in his New York Magat Dam was not the major When they looked up and saw her, they place. While there, Benny tried helping her cause of the flooding in Carealized who she was, and with respect and sober up and enhance her chess skills with gayan Valley. adoration, ALL of them invited her to play. the help of a few friends from their circle of chess supporters. It was in Benny;s house where Beth bonded with Cleo, a model who was once infatuated with Benny. When Beth left for the tournament in Paris, she worked her way up to the final match with Borgov. Suddenly, Cleo appeared in the picture and invited Beth for drinks, makHe also said concerned offices and individuals who may be affected by the release of water are warned at least six hours before the release of the water from Magat Dam. He added that the release of water Though the riveting and thrilling movie didn't end up as a "happily ever after" film, the lesson learned here is that fame and fortune are not important in life. The search for TRUE LOVE was the underlying statement created throughout the course of this creatively-crafted Tevis story. If you haven't watched it yet, I suggest you DEPUTY SPEAKER LOREN LEGARDA ing her relapse on her alcohol; and pills prompting her hungover during the match, from Magat Dam was done gradually and not all at once. (MNS) should, to enable you to "escape" during these challenging times.
NDRRMC’s Jalad says damage to infra “La OPTImIZED”... frOm PaGE 1
due to Ulysses rose to over P10Bdigital footprint and the tools necessary to gain a competitive edge and lead our experience and expertise to this effort. As Founder of Braven Agency, he uses digital pandemic recovery.” marketing tools and strategies to scale
LA Optimized is designed to help small diverse small businesses and organizabusinesses adapt to the rapid shifts in tions –– bridging the digital divide and consumer behavior and technological ad- providing businesses owned or run by vances by empowering them to boost their people of color with the ability to compete digital marketing, maximize their online against the titans of industry. business listings, create or optimize their As Google’s Digital Coach for the Los websites, and increase their knowledge Angeles metropolitan area, Martinez enand presence in the e-commerce space - lists some of the city’s most accomplished all at no cost to businesses. business minds to build stronger indus-
Through the help of dedicated partners, tries across the City. the Mayor’s Office plans to allocate over "I am honored and privileged to be the $1.5 million to help provide these services. next Entrepreneur-in-Residence for the
This program will also partner with the City of L.A.,” said Martinez. ArtCenter College of Design and verynice “Now more than ever there is a need to deliver up to $500,000 in total to vetted to bridge the digital divide to help small creative professionals to provide $500 businesses. I'm excited to work with Mayworth of business and digital content or Garcetti’s administration to spearhead services including branding, video, pho- programs that leverage partnerships with MANILA (Mabuhay) — National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management tography, and graphic design to struggling various tech, NGO, and community actors Council (NDRRMC) executive director Ricardo Jalad on Thursday said small businesses. to assist our local businesses in growing damage to infrastructure due to Typhoon Ulysses has already spiked to In its first year, up to 1,000 small busi- and prospering regardless of the economic P10.79 billion. nesses will be able to access these ser- climate.” At the Laging Handa press briefing, Jalad said more or less 125,000 residences were destroyed after Ulysses pounded several provinces in Luzon, causing massive floods in various areas. The NDRRMC has said more than four million individuals or nearly one million families have been affected by Ulysses. They were recorded from the regions of Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Bicol, National Capital Region, and Cordillera Administrative Region. According to Jalad, the number of fatalities is still at 73. vices to increase their online visibility and engagement, and help them adapt to digital marketing platforms in the wake of pandemic-related challenges. While the pandemic has accelerated the surge of online sales this year, small and medium businesses have long faced digital challenges to compete with larger corporations. This year, California’s small business revenue dropped by 29.3%, and First launched in 2014, the EIR program is made possible with support from Ernst & Young LLP and the Mayor’s Fund for Los Angeles. It enlists business executives and expert entrepreneurs to work with the City to create exciting and powerful solutions that will lead to thoughtful policy, a growing workforce, and a stronger economy. “We’re proud to support the Entre"Buti naman itong 73 napanatili na sa ganiyan, two weeks na 'yan, wala a September 2020 report found that Los preneur-in-Residence program and this ng naidadagdag. Si Super Typhoon Rolly naman mas mababa, 25 deaths Angeles has seen 15,000 closures, half of year’s initiative to help provide small busiang inabot diyan," Jalad said. which are permanent. ness owners with the knowledge and skills
The NDRRMC official said more or less P200 million worth of assisLA Optimized will be open to active needed to thrive in the digital age,” said tance has already been extended to the victims of the typhoon. He said small businesses in the City of Los Ange- Patrick Niemann, EY Greater Los Angeles the Department of Social Welfare and Development continues its relief les, with priority given to brick-and-mor- Managing Partner. operations for the affected individuals. tar establishments located in or serving “This is a pivotal time for our fellow An"Lahat ho ng naapektuhan ay binibigyan ng tulong even 'yung mga residents of low income communities. gelenos, and we believe that digital transhindi lumikas," Jalad said. Businesses can enroll at Coronavirus. formation can unlock human potential and President Rodrigo Duterte already placed the entire Luzon under state LACity.org/LAOptimized. accelerate new and better ways of working of calamity following the onslaught of Ulysses as well as other strong This initiative will be led by the City’s to drive equitable economic growth.” storms, including Quinta and Rolly. (MNS)Entrepreneur-in-Residence, Roberto Mar- Martinez will begin his EIR appointtinez, who brings more than 15 years of ment on Friday, December 4th.
Robredo camp says no early opposition from DepEd on learning hubs
MANILA (Mabuhay) — The camp of Vice President Leni Robredo said Tuesday the Department of Education (DepEd) did not oppose its community learning hubs project until earlier in the day when the agency distanced itself from the initiative.
“Until today, national DepEd did not express any opposition to the initiative,” Robredo’s spokesperson Barry Gutierrez said in a statement.
In October, the Office of the Vice President (OVP) launched “hubs” that offer support to learners by providing them with free internet access, computers, gadgets and tutors.
Gutierrez was reacting to statements made by Education Secretary Leonor Briones at the Palace briefing during the day.
The education chief said the DepEd communicated with the OVP in August over the initiative but it was rejected because it involved face-to-face sessions, which President Rodrigo Duterte banned pending the availability of a vaccine against COVID-19.
“Ang polisiya namin, dahil sinusunod namin ‘yong utos ng President, hindi natin ‘yan ina-allow kasi wala naman sa authority ng DepEd na mag-anunsiyo ng ganoong klase na ire-reverse natin ang sinasabi ng Presidente,” Briones said.
Briones said the OVP had coordinated with local government units (LGUs) in setting up community learning hubs.
“Halimbawa, sa Pasig, nag-coordinate sila directly with the LGU in Pasig. Pero one-on-one, dahil hindi naman in-approve ng ating division superintendent iyon,” she said.
Briones said the OVP’s plans to set up a hub in Caloocan was not approved by the local government, while the one in Taytay, Rizal was coordinated with barangay officials but the DepEd was not involved.
Vice President Leni Robredo assists a child at the OVP Community Learning Hub in Lupang Arenda, Brgy. Sta Ana, Taytay, Rizal. Robredo observed the operations of the learning hub where learners are provided access to computers, internet and trained volunteer tutors who could help them with their modules. OVP Handout
Gutierrez said the learning hubs initiative was coordinated with the DepEd “at both the national and local levels every step of the way.”
“Briones herself mentioned that ‘it is a good initiative’ and in fact requested for additional details to ‘evaluate the feasibility of implementing such a program at scale," he said.
Gutierrez also said the hubs “are not meant to be sites for classroom or faceto-face instruction.”
“Instead, it is meant to be a place for students where home-based learning is not conducive to get tutorial support in completing their modules and accessing resources, including the internet."
Gutierrez stressed health protocols are strictly followed in the hubs.
“There is also proper coordination not just with local DepEd Divisions but also local government units to ensure a safe and effective learning environment,” he said.
There are 11 active hubs serving more than 2,000 learners in Luzon and Visayas, said Gutierrez, adding that DepEd officials are welcome to visit the hubs to see the services provided to students.
The DepEd has yet to respond to Gutierrez’s statement. (MNS)
PNP opens security, gun license processing on weekends, holidays
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Debold Sinas on Wednesday has ordered the Civil Security Group (CSG) to extend the operations of its frontline services in Camp Crame, Quezon City to serve more clients. "Under the new normal, we ensure what is the best for our clients who avail our frontline services including the process of LESP (License to Exercise Security Profession) for the security sector, and LTOFP (License to Own and Possess Firearms) for private individuals," Sinas said in a statement.
Acting CSG chief, Brig. Gen. Rolando Hinanay announced that the CSG would accommodate LESP and LTOFP clients even on weekends and holidays starting November 28 until December 13.
The One-Stop-Shop (OSS) for the processing of these permits would be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and from 8 a.m. to 12 noon on Sundays and holidays.
The scheduling scheme for clients would be based on an online queuing system to control and streamline the number of visitors in Camp Crame, Hinanay explained.
Sinas also directed Hinanay to open an OSS annex office at the Permit to Carry Firearms Outside of Residence (PTCFOR) Office designated for a smooth process of Directorate for Intelligence (DI) clearances needed in applying LESP and neuropsychological tests and drug tests for LTOFP applicants. "We see to it that we control the customer flow in the National Headquarters to contain the spread of Covid-19 and for the safety of everyone. On a daily average, the CSG-OSS has 700 to 800 clients," Sinas said.
Sinas is also eyeing to open CSG Extension Offices to be stationed in Eastern Police District (EPD), Northern Police District (NPD), and Southern Police District (SPD). "Aside from this development for CSG services, we are working on the possible opening of LTOFP booths in shopping malls in Metro Manila, and printing hubs of LESP and LTOFP cards to be placed in all Police Regional Offices nationwide," he added. (MNS)
CAREGIVERS IN A TIME OF CRISIS
EVEN in normal times, when the economy is growing and our health care systems are free from pandemics, caregivers are vital to our society. Neither the economy nor the health care system can survive without people willing to do the hard work of caring for our elderly population.
However, with the advent of COVID-19, caregivers are being asked to do the extraordinary. Many caregivers are sheltering in place with their clients. Family members may be fearful to even visit their loved ones due to the possibly of passing a disease they may not even know they have.
Some caregivers, working in care facilities, have also been asked to shelter in place, even as residents get sick. These caregivers are placing themselves in great physical peril to ensure that the elderly get adequate care. Caregivers may also be facing growing insecurity in terms of wages and may not even know when their next paycheck is coming. Caregivers may not have access to groceries, and some may even be rationing food with their clients.
Despite all of this, caregivers continue to do what they do, which is care for our loved ones. If you are sheltering in place and have to stay at a facility or at the home of a client, you deserve to be paid overtime. Not only is it the law, but the work caregivers perform is fully deserving of fair and adequate compensation.
California law recognizes that caregivers, and in fact all employees, are entitled to compensation for all time that they are required to be at the worksite, under an obligation to respond to the client. The California Supreme Court again reaffirmed that point in February of 2020. To be entitled to compensation, you do not have to be actively discharging some assigned duty. All you have to do is be present and available for your client. That, as the California Supreme Court recognized, is still “work” and it is still valuable to your employer. Therefore, you need to be paid for all of that time. Just like you, the attorneys at Chaleff Rehwald Peterson are still working. We have moved our offices to our homes and will not stop working to protect our caregiver clients. We recognize and value the vital work that our caregivers do and will not stop working for our caregivers. If you are sheltering in place, or are working 24-hours, without overtime compensation, please contact our firm at (818)807-4168 for a free and confidential consultation. We love helping caregivers get the overtime compensation that they deserve. We are here to take your calls, and can even sign you up remotely, so we can still maintain social distance.
This article is an attorney advertisement written by Kevin Rehwald, employment law attorney at Chaleff Rehwald Peterson in Woodland Hills, Ca. Our examples are of a general nature and are not a guarantee regarding the outcome of your individual matter. The law firm focuses on caregiver rights. Please call us at (818) 807-4168 for a free and confidential consultation. Or visit us at www. caregiverovertime.com to learn more about caregiver overtime law. We offer a 24-hour chat line on our website.
DOT probes Boracay ‘full moon party’ over quarantine violations
FULL MOON PARTY. Tourism chief Bernadette Romulo-Puyat shows a video of partygoers visibly violating the Covid-19 quarantine measures in Boracay. The “full moon party” on Oct. 31, 2020 violated physical distancing and mandatory wearing of face mask that were put in place when the island reopened to tourists in October. (PNA photo)
MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Department of Tourism (DOT) is investigating a recent party in Boracay over violations of quarantine protocols, Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said on Wednesday.
The "full moon party" was held from the night of October 31 until the morning of November 1 at a venue in Sitio Cagban, Barangay Manoc-manoc.
As it castigated the "irresponsible" gathering, the DOT also called for the erring establishment's closure in view of its lack of business permit and necessary clearances. "The DOT, as co-vice chair of the Boracay Inter-Agency Task Force (BIATF) slams the irresponsible mass gathering at the Casa de Arte, Sitio Cagban, Barangay Manoc-Mano in Boracay recently," it said.
In a video sent by the Tourism chief to the Philippine News Agency, partygoers can be seen visibly violating the Covid-19 quarantine measures, such as physical distancing and mandatory wearing of face mask, which were put in place when the island was reopened to tourists in October. "Nakita namin based on the videos nakikipag-inuman, hubad hubad, nakikipag-halikan sa Boracay... Diba 'pag-MGCQ, una two bottles 'yan? (We saw based on the video that the guests were drinking, half-naked, kissing in Boracay. In MGCQ areas, only two bottles are allowed)," she told reporters in an interview.
The organizer was reportedly fined PHP5,000 for the event.
Romulo-Puyat said she is flying to Boracay on December 2 to discuss the incident with the local government officials.
“We are appealing to our LGUs to please cooperate with us in the safe and responsible reopening of our tourist destinations. The jobs and livelihoods that were recently restored in these sites will be affected once again if an outbreak occurs in the area due to the LGU’s negligence," she said. "We urge our LGUs to please take our health and safety protocols seriously.”
From June to September 2020, Boracay only accepted visitors from Western Visayas to closely monitor tourism activity in the area amid the pandemic. It officially reopened to local tourists, including those from areas under general community quarantine (GCQ), last October.
At the time of the reopening, Romulo-Puyat's main message to travelers was to "be responsible".
She said travelers can never be too complacent, even on vacation, and must adhere to the minimum health protocols. "We want to restart tourism but there's still Covid, that's why we have these reminders-- observe physical distancing and wear a mask,” she said. (MNS)
Mamba’s remark disparaging Muslims angers Muslim offi cial; governor apologizes
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Cagayan Governor Manuel Mamba on Wednesday angered Muslim leaders when he connected peace and order in the province to the alleged absence of Muslims there.
Mamba made the remark as he tried to convince lawmakers to rehabilitate the Cagayan River to entice tourists and investors there. "If we dredge the river, restore the Cagayan River to its old glory, I think Cagayan and the North will enjoy so much advantage, as much as economic activity of Luzon is concerned," Mamba said in a Senate hearing on flood control projects. "We do not have Muslims here. Wala kaming problema as far as peace and order is concerned here."
Hours after Mamba's remark, the Cagayan Public Information Office issued an apology. "Nililinaw po ni Gov. na ang ibig niyang tukuyin ay 'Walang paniniwalang extremism sa mga kapatid na Muslim na naninirahan sa Cagayan'," the office said in a social media post. "Kaugnay nito ay muling humihingi ng paumanhin si Gov. Mamba kung ibang konteksto ang ibinunga ng kaniyang pahayag sa Senate committee hearing."
Bangsamoro Parliament member Zia Alonto Adiong denounced Mamba for his comment, but later acknowledged his apology. "Seriously, who would ever think that way except bigots?" he said in a tweet. "I have a surprise for you, Governor, we’re everywhere! Don’t be scared because we do have Muslim policemen and soldiers as well to keep us all safe and protected," he said. "We do have Muslim Governors doing exactly the same job as Gov. Mamba," he said.
Adiong reminded Muslims they should "not allow people to tell you 'you are the problem'." "You are a Muslim. You have all the right as a citizen of this country, under this constitution, to choose to live wherever you see fit," he said. "There are Muslim diplomats, Muslim businessmen, Muslim doctors, Muslim scientists, Muslim inventors, Muslim academicians, Muslim legislators and so on. You name it, we have it," he said. (MNS) GOV. MANUEL MAMBA
House OKs on fi nal reading 'Eddie Garcia Act' Online facility MANILA (Mabuhay) — The House of RepresentaMANILA (Mabuhay) — The House of Representa- service.” service.” available for voter tives has approved on third and final reading the bill seeking to protect those working in the It also has a provision concerning hours of work wherein the normal work hours shall only be 8 hours It also has a provision concerning hours of work applicants — Comelec entertainment industry following the death per day, but it can be extended to a maximum of MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Comof screen veteran Eddie Garcia. 12 hours “served intermittently or continuously, mission on Elections (Comelec) on
House Bill 7762, or the “Eddie Garcia Act,” exclusive of meal periods.” Wednesday said voter applicants was unanimously passed during the lower The bill says permissible working hours in excess can use its online registration chamber’s session on Tuesday, with House of the normal work hours shall be determined by facility to help them register for members voting 235-0-0. the Tripartite Council, save for some exceptions the May 2022 national and local
Under the proposed measure, the “Eddie involving workers aged 60 and above, and minors. elections. Garcia Act” aims to protect and promote the Furthermore, HB 7762 includes provi- According to the poll body, apwelfare of workers or independent sions on the workers’ wages, social plicants may register by accomcontractors in the film, television security and welfare benefits, basic plishing forms thru iRehistro by and radio entertainment indus- necessities, standard of treatment, visiting https://irehistro.comelec. try. health and safety, insurance and gov.ph/cef1.
Under Section 5 of the HB settlement of disputes, among oth- However, the poll body said 7762, “the worker or independ- er labor-related matters. using the facility does not mean ent contractor and the employ- The first version of this bill was automatic approval of voter reger or principal shall execute an filed at the House of Representa- istration applications. agreement or an employment tives last year following Garcia’s "Take note that using this online contract in a language or dia- death after he tripped and fell facility only attempts to facilitate lect understood by both parties on the set of a GMA Network the process of accomplishment before the commencement of THE LATE SCREEN LEGEND EDDIE GARCIA series in June 2019. (MNS) of the Application Form. It does not automatically mean approval of your application," it said in an Nearly 6M Filipinos register for national ID announcement on its website. The poll body said applicants need to personally appear before MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) on Wednesday said 5,788,615 low-income Filipinos have taken the first step of the registration phase for the Philippine identification system (PhilSys) amid some delays posed by the recent typhoons. number (PSN) and a 16-digit PhilSys card number (PCN). The PSA targets to register the majority of Filipinos by the end of 2022. The PSA has started collecting demographic data from targeted low-income Filipinos in 664 cities and municipalities Valley, Davao Del Norte, Davao Del Sur, Davao Occidental, and Tawi-Tawi. Signed into law by President Rodrigo R. Duterte in August 2018, Republic Act 11055, or the Philippine Identification System Act, aims to establish a single national ID for all Filipinos and resident aliens. their local Comelec office together with their printed online application forms for QR scanning and biometrics capture to complete the filing process. "Biometrics capture may be done only at the local Comelec
“We partnered with the Department of in 32 provinces identified as “low-risk” The national ID shall be a valid proof offices during office hours," it National Defense to transport our regis- areas for coronavirus outbreak, includ- of identity that shall be a means of sim- added. tration kits to the 32 provinces, but due ing Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, plifying public and private transactions, In the iRehistro facility, applito the recent typhoons and the resulting Cagayan, Isabela, Bataan, Bulacan, Nue- enrolment in schools, and the opening of cant voters are asked to select the relief efforts, we are encountering minor va Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac, Zambales, bank accounts. type of application they will be delays," Assistant Secretary Rosalinda Batangas, Cavite, Laguna, Quezon, Rizal, It will also boost efficiency, especially in filing. Bautista, Deputy National Statistician of Albay, Camarines Sur, Masbate, Antique, dealing with government services where These are registration, transfer the PhilSys Registry Office (PRO), said in Capiz, Iloilo, Negros Occidental, Bohol, people will only need to present the ID of registration record, reactivation a statement. Cebu, Negros Oriental, Leyte, Compostela during transactions. (MNS) of registration record, change of
Bautista asked the public to understand name due to marriage or court the situation “as the delivery of assistance order/correction of entries in the to those affected by the typhoon is of ut- voters' registration record, and most importance.” inclusion of records in the book
She said the PSA has notified the regis- of voters/reinstatement of name trants about the changes in schedules due to the unforeseen calamities. "We have notified, via text message, the registrants who were set to undergo Step 2 registration from November 25 to 30 about the change in schedule. Barangay officials in registration areas were requested to in the list of voters. Likewise, applicants need to provide their personal information, citizenship details, and residency data. They also have the option to set inform their constituents," Bautista said. an appointment which will be giv"Personnel from the Provincial Statistics en over walk-in applicants, at the Offices were also instructed to man the Comelec offices in their area. registration centers to inform registrants The Election Registration Board of developments, in case there are still (ERB) will approve all applicasome that will arrive at the registration tions. sites.” The voter registration period
Bautista earlier said the field works and has resumed last September 1 ground operations for the PhilSys regis- and will run until September 30, tration have been slowed down due to 2021. (MNS) the onslaught of the typhoons, which hit some of the PSA's target areas for initial registration. However, Bautista said the PhilSys reg- PH Sports Hall of Fame nominations extendedistration is still on track.
The PSA reported that 89 percent of MANILA (Mabuhay) — Nomi- Board (GAB) Chairman Abraham registrants have so far signified that they nations for the fourth enshrine- Mitra, Philippine Olympic Comcurrently do not have bank accounts. ment of the Philippine Sports mittee (POC) Secretary-General "This emphasizes the importance of en- Hall of Fame (PSHOF) has been Atty. Edwin Gastanes, Integrated suring the rollout of the country’s national extended until January 31 next Cycling Federation of the PhilID program, as one of the main hindrances year, Philippine Sports Commis- ippines Secretary-General Atty. to financial inclusion is the lack of formal sion chairman William Ramirez Avelino Sumagui, University Athidentification," the PSA said. said on Wednesday. letic Association of the Philippines
The mass rollout of the PhilSys pro- “In light of the continuing (UAAP) Executive Director Atty. ject allows more Filipinos to access basic pandemic, the selection com- Rene Saguisag Jr., and Philippine banking services and make them less vul- mittee have decided to extend Olympians Association President nerable to informal lending practices that charge heavy interest rates, the PSA added. The national identification will also help Filipinos access government and financial services. The PSA said it will start the second phase of the PhilSys registration, which the nominations to give equal opportunity for the public to submit their nominations, and for us to study it,” Ramirez, also chairperson of the PSHOF 2020 Committee, after the selection Akiko Thomson Guevara. The Republic Act No. 8757 or the Philippine Sports Hall of Fame Act, enshrines Filipino athletes, coaches and trainers who have distinguished themselves in their involves the capturing of biometric in- committee met second week particular fields in sports. formation such as fingerprints and iris of November, the month when Among the past recipients of this scans, "once the required systems are fully the enshrinement was originally award were Filipino Boxing legend functional and secured." scheduled. Gabriel “Flash” Elorde, Asia’s First
Among the major preparatory activities Ramirez said the panel is also Chess Grandmaster Eugene Torre, for Step 2 is the deployment of more than looking into the possibility of Asia’s Fastest Woman Lydia de 4,000 registration kits to the target prov- hosting the awarding online, Vega, and Bowling World champiinces, according to the PSA. due to the current restrictions placed on mass gatherings. ons Rafael “Paeng” Nepomuceno and Olivia “Bong” Coo.
The third step of the registration is the “We have to make proper adjustments to ensure the The committee is scheduled to reconvene on Decemissuance of a physical ID card stored with a safety of everyone,” he said. ber 1 to finalize other matters, among them the new date 12-digit PhilSys number or personal serial Ramirez was joined by Games and Amusements of enshrinement ceremonies. (MNS)
Lorenzana: PHL will get involved if China-US shooting war erupts
MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Philippines will get dragged into the rising tension between the United States and China in the South China Sea if a shooting war breaks out between the two world powers, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said Wednesday.
In his speech during a forum of the Stratbase ADR Institute, Lorenzana stressed that the escalating tension between the two superpowers "has occupied the interest and time of the security agencies in the region." "This then is the crux of the security challenge in the Indo-Pacific region, the looming confrontation of the US and its allies and China over the South China Sea," Lorenzana said. "While the US and China continue to assert that their actions are defensive, the danger of miscalculation is ever present like the near collision of two frigates belonging to the US and China two years ago," he added.
Further, he said "The recent decision of the Chinese government to arm their coast guard vessels patrolling the South China Sea has upped the ante even more, and if a shooting war happens, the Philippines, which is right smack in the middle of the conflict, will be involved whether [the country] likes it or not."
Lorenzana shared that he had obtained personal calls as well as visits from other defense ministers, showing that the recent developments in the South China Sea is important to other nations.
He noted that the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) could "exert considerable influence on issues and events in the South China Sea if only it could act as one."
Earlier, the ASEAN said it would remain independent and would not allow the United States and China to drag it into their power struggle. The Philippine government, for its part, said it would remain neutral amid the rising tension between the two countries.
China claims nearly the entire resource-rich South China Sea, but Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam each claim parts of it.
Despite the ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, Netherlands, which delivered a sweeping victory to the Philippines for its case against China, Beijing continue to push for its massive and "historical claims" over the area.
The United States has been opposing China's expansionist claims, sending warships regularly through the strategic sea to demonstrate freedom of navigation in the region. (MNS)
Bello inclined to allow construction activity at Skyway extension project accident site
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III said Thursday he might lift the order that stopped the construction activity in an area of the Skyway Extension Project where an accident took place last weekend.
Speaking at the Laging Handa briefing, Bello said he was inclined to approve the recommendation of the Department of Labor and Employment-National Capital Region to lift the work stoppage order against the contractor EEI Corporation.
Bello earlier reversed the decision of the DOLE-NCR to stop the construction activity in the entire Sucat Alabang Viaduct section of the Skyway Extension Project, taking into consideration the project's “utmost national importance.”
“Equally acknowledged is the fact that the suspension of said project in the unaffected areas will cause prejudice to the employees assigned/ deployed thereat whose livelihood heavily depends on the said project’s continued operation,” the Labor chief’s order dated November 24 stated.
Last Saturday, one person died and four others were hurt after a steel girder from the ongoing project fell on six vehicles in Muntinlupa City. The accident occurred on East Service Road.
The incident pushed back the completion of the project to February 2021.
The Skyway Extension Project was initially scheduled to be completed by December this year, adding two northbound lanes and three southbound lanes.
It will have a direct connection to Skyway 1, 2, and 3, and allow motorists from the south to head to Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Makati, Manila, San Juan, Quezon City, and the North Luzon Expressway without having to pass by Alabang and EDSA. (MNS)
DILG chief Año slams Makabayan bloc for not denouncing CPP-NPA-NDFP
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Interior Secretary Eduardo Año on Thursday slammed the Makabayan bloc in the House of Representatives for refusing to condemn the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) despite its "horrendous crimes."
In a press statement, Año said he is dismayed by the group's "blind eye to the thousands of atrocities committed by the atheist communist-terrorist group."
A former military chief, Año was referring to the CPP and its allied organizations, the New People's Army (NPA) and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP). "If you cannot even condemn the perpetrators of these horrendous crimes against the people in your capacity as elected public officials, there is definitely something wrong," Año said.
He said the bloc's refusal to condemn and distance itself from the CPP-NPA-NDF and their crimes is "a clear and indisputable betrayal of public trust." "As elected government officials receiving salary, emoluments and benefits from government, they are morally, ethically and legally required to denounce the communist terrorists whose main objective is to overthrow the government that they are part of,” he said.
During Tuesday's Senate hearing on the government's alleged red-tagging of individuals and groups, Bayan Muna party-list Representative Carlos Zarate and former lawmaker Teddy Casiño said they do not consider the communist groups as enemies.
For Casiño, declaring the communists as rebels is not proper while for Zarate, it would mean closing doors for discourse.
Año said the statements are clear attempts of the group "to wash their hands of the blood of the thousands of victims of CPP-NPA-NDF atrocities through the years."
“Nakakakilabot na tinatawag lamang nila ang walang habas na pagpatay ng mga inosenteng tao, mga pulis at sundalo bilang isang pamamaraan para kanilang tahasang maipahayag ang kanilang agenda,” Año said.
The DILG chief said the Makabayan bloc members, as elected officials, are required under the 1897 Constitution to denounce the CPP-NPA-NDF.
He claimed that the CPP-NPA-NDF is the biggest violator of human rights in the country. "Aside from killing soldiers, police and government officials, the party is also infamous for its internal purges which has killed some 3,000 to 7,000 lives including the Inopacan, Leyte massacre where 67 Leyte massacre where 67 comrades were summarily comrades were summarily executed upon orders of the CPP," Año said. CPP," Año said.
The Senate inquiry on alleged red-tagging will resume will resume on Decemon December 1. (MNS) (MNS)
IBP: Palawan lawyer slay suspects arrested, charged
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Suspects in the killing of Palawan lawyer Eric Jay Magcamit have been arrested and charged, the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) said Thursday.
IBP President Domingo Egon Cayosa said the alleged killers and their accomplices were identified, arrested, and charged within a week after the fatal shooting of Magcamit last November 17.
Cayosa did not name the suspects.
Magcamit was driving along the national highway in Narra, Palawan when he was flagged down and shot by two people, according to police. The lawyer was on his way to a hearing. "We appreciate and commend the swift action and all those who helped bring the murderers before the bar of justice," Cayosa said in a statement, explaining that IBP leaders and Magcamit's fellow lawyers have coordinated with intelligence, law enforcement, investigation and prosecution agencies under their lawyer security program.
Cayosa said they are working for similar results in the killing of another lawyer, Joey Luis Wee, in Cebu City. Wee was shot outside his office building last November 23.
The IBP chief said the killings of lawyers must be "resolutely" acted upon beyond expressions of outrage. "For if those who administer justice are themselves killed with impunity, how can the ordinary citizen believe in due process or feel safe and secure?" he said.
He said there are other cases of lawyer killings that remain unsolved. More than 50 lawyers, prosecutors, and judges have been killed since President Rodrigo Duterte assumed office in 2016.
He called on lawyers who hold key positions in government to promptly resolve pending cases, pass the necessary laws and rules, and enforce the law fairly. "We share the fear and frustrations of many about the brazen violence, continuing criminality and appalling impunity in our country. Justice is distant and delayed for too many victims," Cayosa said. "Since lawyers administer the justice system and occupy key positions in government, we must humbly recognize our individual and collective responsibility and shortcomings so that we may courageously do justice without delay," he added. (MNS)
Senate OKs P4.5-T nat'l budget for 2021 on 3rd reading
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Voting 22-0, the Senate on Thursday approved on third and final reading its version of the proposed P4.5-trillion national budget for 2021, consistent with the timeline it has set to ensure that the bill gets President Rodrigo Duterte's signature before the year ends.
The first general appropriations bill to be approved by the Senate using hybrid hearings and sessions due to the threat of COVID-19 is anchored on the theme "Reset, Rebound, and Recover: Investing for Resiliency and Sustainability," as determined by the executive branch.
The speakership row in the House of Representatives last October threatened to delay the passage of the budget in Congress and stirred up concerns among some senators on possibly having a re-enacted budget in 2021 — one without consideration of the global health crisis.
But the lower chamber's transmittal of the general appropriations bill to the Senate on October 27 assuaged such fears and allowed Senate Committee on Finance chairperson Sonny Angara to sponsor it in the Senate plenary on November 10.
The senators burned the midnight oil during the budget debates from November 11 to 20, and had to make a few adjustments on their schedule as Typhoon Ulysses battered Luzon.
Having been certified as urgent by Malacañang, the budget was approved by the Senate on second and third reading on the same day.
The bicameral conference committee meeting is expected to start on Saturday and should it run smoothly, a bicameral report may be signed and approved by lawmakers on December 9. The enrolled budget bill may then be submitted to Malacañang on December 16 for the President's signature. (MNS)
Senate OKs CREATE bill on third and final reading
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Voting 20-1, the Senate on Thursday approved on third and final reading the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (CREATE) bill, an urgent measure being lobbied for by the Duterte administration's economic managers amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Senate Bill No. 1357 seeks an outright reduction in corporate income tax rate from the current 30% starting July 1, 2020 by amending the National Internal Revenue Code. It was approved on second and third reading on the same day as it has been certified as urgent by Malacañang.
Under CREATE, progressive tax rates would be applied to domestic corporations depending on their assets and taxable income. Those with assets amounting to P100 million and below, as well as those with taxable income equivalent to P5 million and below, would be subjected to a 20% tax rate.
Domestic enterprises with assets above P100 million or those with taxable income amounting to more than P5 million would have to comply with a 25% tax rate.
Not included in the computation of the total assets were the value of the land where the property, plant, and equipment are situated.
Meanwhile, foreign corporations would have a fixed reduced tax rate at 25%.
The Philippines currently has the highest corporate income tax rate in the ASEAN region at 30% since 2009, while Singapore has the lowest at 17% since 2010, according to the Department of Finance.
The administration's economic team previously estimated that the passage of this corporate income tax reform bill would mean a P40 billion reduction in government revenues for the second half of 2020 alone— an amount which firms can use to fund their operations and retain their employees amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
In the next five years of CREATE’s implementation, the foregone government revenues are estimated to reach P600 billion.
Rationalizing incentives
At the same time, the proposed law also aims to rationalize fiscal incentives by making them time-bound, targeted, and performance-based.
The Fiscal Incentives Review Board (FIRB), chaired by the Secretary of Finance, shall be in charge of granting incentives to registered projects or activities with investment capital of above P1 billion.
The grant of incentives to those with investment capital P1 billion and below, meanwhile, shall be delegated to the Investment Promotion Agencies, provided that the FIRB may increase this threshold periodically or as may be necessary.
The measure also gives the President of the Philippines the power to approve a modified set of incentives to attract highly-desirable investments that would usher in more employment opportunities, specifically those with minimum investment capital of P50 billion.
Senate ways and means committee chairperson Pia Cayetano said exporters and domestic enterprises would be given distinct perks, considering that they "have a different market, and therefore, their needs and their ability to be profitable are different."
Exporters will have the option to continue availing of the special corporate income tax rate of five percent on gross income earned (GIE) for 10 years, or avail of enhanced deductions. On the other hand, domestic enterprises may avail of the enhanced deductions for 10 years. Both exporters and domestic industries will also enjoy a four to seven-year income tax holiday under the CREATE bill, according to Cayetano. Meanwhile, existing registered businesses who were granted income tax holidays will be given ample time to enjoy it for the period it was granted before transitioning to the provisions under CREATE. "And for those who have been enjoying the 5% gross income earned tax, regardless of the number of years that they have been enjoying the incentives, all will have 10 years to transition to CREATE," Cayetano added. Senator Richard Gordon was the lone senator who voted against the approval of CREATE after his proposed amendment of exempting some freeports from the jurisdiction of FIRB has been rejected in plenary. The House of Representatives already approved its version of the corporate income tax reform bill last year. (MNS)
Nat'l gov’t budget deficit narrows month-on-month in October as public spending continues decline
MANILA (Mabuhay) — The national government’s fiscal balance yielded a narrower shortfall on a month-onmonth basis in October as public spending continued to contract, albeit lower than the still tepid state collections amid the COVID-19 crisis.
Data released by the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) showed the budget deficit last month stood at P61.4 billion, leaner than the P138.5-billion shortfall in September.
“This highlights slower government spending both on a year-on-year basis (-7%) and also on a month-on-month basis to P289 billion, among the lowest in eight months or since February 2020 and also among the slowest in a year (since August 2019),” Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Ricafort said.
Ricafort said the narrower budget gap in October partly reflects “the relatively slower deployment/rollout of the P140 billion Bayanihan 2 Law funds back then (but already accelerated to about 2/3 of the said Bayanihan 2 Fund recently).”
Late last month, the Department of Budget and Management was criticized by lawmakers for the slow release of funds allocated under the Bayanihan to Recover as One Act.
So far, around P90 billion of the P140 billion appropriations under the Bayanihan 2 were released.
“Definitely, there is a need to speed up the disbursements and rollout of the Bayanihan 2 funds to achieve the objective of greater response to COVID-19 especially for faster economic recovery and also to further bolster the medical/health care sector and for funding other COVID-19 programs, given the fact that approvals and deployment need to be completed in less than a month for the remaining 1/3 of the Bayanihan 2 Law funds, so the schedule is already tight and expediency is key right
MICHAEL RICAFORT
now to have a positive impact on economic recovery program/efforts,” Ricafort said.
Year-on-year, the budget deficit widened by 24.56% from a P49.3-billion fiscal gap in October 2019.
“The budget gap widened behind a 12.75% year-onyear contraction in revenue receipts despite a 6.84% reduction in disbursements,” the Treasury said.
October’s budget shortfall brought the year-to-date fiscal balance to a deficit of P940.6 billion, 170.09% wider than last year’s P348.3-billion deficit. one-off pension differential releases for the military and uniformed personnel in October last year, as well as the expected lower capital outlays during the year because of the pandemic,” the BTr said.
The Treasury noted that the decline in capital expenditures is mainly attributed to the discontinuance and realignment of some capital outlay projects this year pursuant to the Bayanihan 1 and the delays brought by the COVID-19 lockdowns.
The January to October government expenditures amounted to P3.312 trillion, up 12.75% from P2.937 trillion.
“This was propelled by the implementation of various government COVID-19 emergency response and assistance programs,” the BTr said.
Revenues
Government collection in October amounted to P228.2 billion, down 12.75% from P261.6 billion in the same comparable period in 2019.
Tax collections comprised the lion’s share of P203.8 billion or 89% of the total state revenues last month while the balance of 11% or P24.4 billion came from non-tax collections.
Year-to-date, state revenues contracted by 8.41% to P2.371 trillion from P2.589 trillion.
Ricafort said “the COVID-19 lockdowns reduced the government's revenue collections by -8% year-on-year.”
The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) saw a 14.62% decline in tax collections in October to P152.1 billion from P178.1 billion year-on-year.
The Bureau of Customs also recorded a decline in collections of 12.25% to P50.6 billion from P57.7 billion.
Non-tax revenues grew 1.84% to P24.4 billion from P24 billion. (MNS)
Entertainment
What Iza Calzado has learned after 18 years in showbiz
“Loving Emily” star Iza Calzado credits her “wealth of experience” in her personal life for her ability to lend truth to her acting — a reminder which she imparted with her co-star Jameson Blake, who is a relative newcomer in showbiz.
The 38-year-old actress, whose career spans 18 years, is paired with Blake in the just-released iWant TFC original series. Blake, 23, made his professional debut as an actor in 2016.
Despite being a neophyte, Blake has reaped praise for his acting talent, earning him consecutive starring roles in fi lm and series. But for the former “Pinoy Big Brother” housemate, “There’s always room for improvement.”
That improvement, Calzado told Blake, will be drawn from real-life pains and triumphs that would further lend truth to one’s performances.
“The learning never stops and it should never stop,” Calzado said. “Life never stops. The wealth of experiIZA CALZADO ence that you gain because of the life that you live will show in the work that you do.”
“I think it really takes time. It takes, again, a wealth of experience. You’ll have to have your heart broken, shattered to pieces.”
She said, laughing, that Blake’s fi rst heartbreak, once it happens, will serve to make him a better actor.
“Let it flow. That’s also something I have to remind myself, a lot. I have to let if low. It’s there,” she told Blake. “With the experience, it will fl ow even better. As long as you’re focused and you really put your heart and soul into what you do, gagaling ka lang nang gagaling.”
Calzado and Blake spoke on the topic during a recent virtual conference for “Loving Emily,” a seven-part series directed by Gerardo Calagui which is now streaming on iWant
TFC. (MNS)
Ina Raymundo reacts to ‘hot mama’ tag
MANILA (Mabuhay) — “I am far from being super confi dent.”
These were the words of Ina Raymundo when asked about how a lot of people perceive her as someone who seems to INA RAYMUNDO
have no physical inhibitions.
“Meron pa rin konti,” she quipped. “Meron akong inhibitions pa rin sa tummy ko kaya nga I go to my beauty clinic to help me with my tummy problem. But I am not obsessing about it.”
Raymundo said people probably see her that way because she exudes a certain aura which she credits to her regular workout and balanced diet.
“Working out really changed my perspective in everything. It really cleaned me from within. Kasi when you work out and you sweat out, kahit na ano pang toxins 'yung nakain mo, nalabas mo agad. It always makes me feel clean, confi dent and happy. It makes me feel just really good about myself after working out and trying to eat healthy,” she said.
Despite having to look after five kids, Raymundo said she always sees to it that she gets to sneak in some exercise every day.
“'Yun ang challenge ko, kung paano ko maisisingit 'yung work out because all I need is one hour a day. One hour of workout is perfect for me,” she said.
When asked how her kids react every time she gets tagged as a sexy and hot mom, Raymundo said in jest: “Minsan nag-eye roll sila.”
“Kanina lang 'yung son ko sabi niya, ‘Why do you look so fancy mama?’ Pa-joke. Nagugulat pa rin sila kung bakit minsan nakaayos ako or naka-make up ako ng husto. Tini-tease nila ako but I think they appreciate it silently,” she said.
As for the other moms who have already lost the desire to look their best, Raymundo has this advice.
“The very fi rst step is to really know why do you feel that way. It’s really from what you’ve been eating. Try to eliminate kung ano 'yung excessive sa kinakain mo because you have to think of your health also more than anything,” she said. (MNS)
Maris Racal releases new single ‘Kahit Na Anong Sablay’
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Maris Racal has released a new song entitled "Kahit Na Anong Sablay." "For years I kept this song in my voice memos and in my red Moleskine. So glad to fi nally share this with everyone," Racal wrote on Instagram. "Sometimes the universe just has her own pace of turning the simplest things into treasures."
Just last September, Racal marked her 23rd birthday with the release of her song "Not For Me."
Racal started her music and acting career after joining ABSCBN's "Pinoy Big Brother: All In" in 2014. Even at the time, Racal already stood out among her fellow housemates because of her passion for music.
She released her debut single "Tanong Mo Sa Bituin" in 2015 under Star Records.
Her follow-up single, the original song "Take It All Away," was released in 2016.
She again showed off her vocal abilities when she became part of the group BFF5 on "ASAP."
She had her first major concert in July 2017 with fellow ABS-CBN artists Loisa Andalio, Sue Ramirez and Kristel Fulgar entitled "4 Of A Kind: The Un4gettable Concert" at the Music Museum.
Racal released her fi rst album "Stellar" in 2018.
Last year, Racal released her collaboration with Rico Blanco entitled "Abot Langit."
Racal was last seen with real-life beauty queens Gloria Diaz, Maxine Medina, and Winwyn
Luis Manzano, Nikki Gil share how MYX changed their lives
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Former VJs Luis Manzano and Nikki Gil shared how the country’s number one music channel MYX changed their lives.
The two guested in a Facebook live session of MYX Philippines as MYX celebrates its 20th year.
Gil acknowledged that she became known as a host because of MYX. "Not only it did help me hone my craft as a host parang it really established me as a host whether it be on TV or corporate events, live events. Parang because of MYX, host... I actually started out as a singer but because of MYX parang people kinda forgot that that was NIKKI GIL my entry point to show business. So people see me as a host more than anything else. So that's how it was for me," Gil shared. LUIS MANZANO
For his part, Manzano credited MYX for opening up all the opportunities that came to his life. "Everything started with MYX. It was my fi rst show, then after that came 'ASAP,' came 'SCQ.' Siguro for Nikki and I and Iya (Villania), we had different training for MYX also. When we started MYX, no prompters. We had nothing actually, it's basically just a script na bullet point. You are free to do your own thing, say wherever way you'll be more comfortable saying it. Para sa akin it was such a good training ground. That whatever I get to enjoy now I can easily credit it to me starting as a VJ for MYX," Manzano said.
Asked of the most importance lesson they've learned as MYX VJ, Gil said: "I learned so many things in terms of like work ethic, the actual act of interviewing a person, how you are supposed to carry an interview, how to listen to a guest, so that you will be an eff ective host. So madami."
Manzano added: "All the shows that you see, kaming mga humaharap lang sa inyo, pero sa lahat ng show ang talagang bida 'yung mga nasa likod ng camera. That's one thing that I've learned. So kahit makilala ka sa MXY, makilala ka sa 'ASAP,' 'I Can See Your Voice,' never let it get to you dahil ang totoong nagsisikap sa show na 'yon ay 'yung mga nasa likod ng camera. And that's one thing I never fail to realize and appreciate day in and day out."
Gil echoed the sentiment of Manzano that those working behind the camera complete the system. "While we are the ones you see the most, tama nga isa itong sistema and isa itong pamilya and you have to learn to respect and love every working part of that system. And I guess what I learned most about being MYX VJ is the importance of loving your work because parang people can tell if you don't love what you are doing," Gil said. (MNS)
The couple announced the news through their latest vlog, which highlighted some of the most memorable events in the couple's lives for 2020, the pair revealed clips of Rachelle sporting her baby bump and even of the baby's first sonogram. "Finally we are expecting!" Rachelle said. "I also don't need to hide my tummy anywhere. Lagi ko tinatago."
Rachelle also said that Martin first found out about her pregnancy last August 10.
RACHELLE ANN & MARTIN
Although the two already know the gender of their baby, they said that they won't be announcing it until next year.
For now, they're preparing the arrival of their first baby and setting up the nursery room in their home.
Rachelle and Martin, who are currently based in London, tied the knot in 2018. (MNS)
Derek Ramsay confirms split with Andrea Torres, says no 3rd party
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Actor Derek Ramsay has confirmed his breakup with his co-star and girlfriend of one year, Andrea Torres, after days of rumors spurred by the actress un-following him on social media.
Ramsay addressed the speculation in an Instagram comment, as he replied to one follower who blamed Torres for the separation.
The user noted that Ramsay’s past relationships had mostly been long-term. His most recent before Torres, with model Joanne Villablanca, lasted six years, the comment pointed out.
Ramsay answered: “Please don’t point the finger at anyone. There is nothing wrong with Andrea. She is a great woman.”
“There is no third party!” the actor emphasized.
As recently as September 2020, the former couple appeared to be in good terms, and in fact agreed in an interview that they were “ready” to DEREK RAMSAY get married. They also have a shared YouTube channel, dubbed “Andrek,” whose most recent episode was released in October.
“The breakup has happened so fast,” Ramsay said on Thursday. “Maybe two people are just not meant to be. Please respect us nalang. We shared our love to all of you. Sana naman we can keep this to ourselves.”
Referring to Torres, he added, “Mahal ko si Ada kaya ‘di ako magsasalita, pero if I hear lies about her I will defend her. (MNS)
Andrea Torres breaks silence on breakup with Derek Ramsay
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Andrea Torres finally broke her silence on her breakup with Derek Ramsay.
In a statement on Friday, the
Kapuso actress confirmed that she and Derek are "no longer together." "I'd rather keep the details private as I want to give the break up the same amount of respect that I had for the relationship," Andrea said. "I think you all know how much it meant to me. I hope you understand. I will always wish him and his family well," she added. Derek earlier confirmed their breakup on Thursday, saying ANDREA TORRES that there was no third party involved and defending Andrea from speculations online.
Rumors of their breakup circulated online when Andrea unfollowed Derek on Instagram.
Both also removed each other's photos on the social media platform. (MNS)
Nadine Lustre, James Reid remain Kapamilya
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Nadine Lustre and James Reid remain Kapamilya stars, as they took part Wednesday in the filming of ABS-CBN’s Christmas station ID.
Photos of the onscreen couple wearing the official “Ikaw ang Liwanag at Ligaya” shirt quickly circulated on social media, drawing excitement from their fans.
The photos were taken on set, and were posted on Twitter by ABS-CBN creative manager Kathrina Sanchez.
Popularly known as “JaDine,” the tandem of Lustre and Reid starred in the hit ABS-CBN dramas “On the Wings of Love” in 2015 and “Till I Met You” in 2016.
As a Kapamilya, Reid was most recently seen as a judge in “Search for the Idol Philippines” in 2019. Similarly, Lustre sat as judge in the ABS-CBN talent search “Your Moment,” which concluded in February 2020.
In 2015, Reid and Lustre led the ABS-CBN Christmas station ID, “Thank You for The Love,” alongside fellow top love teams KathNiel and LizQuen.
Their participation in “Ikaw ang Liwanag at Ligaya,” the previously unveiled theme title of ABS-CBN’s 2020 Christmas station ID, will mark their sixth with the network.
Dating back to 2002, ABSCBN has been releasing annual Christmas station IDs, producing memorable tunes that have become holiday staples, notably “Star ng Pasko” and “Just Love,” among others.
The 2018 version marked one of the biggest gatherings of celebrities in local showbiz, as some 400 ABS-CBN stars and personalities assembled for the “Family is Love” station
ID. (MNS)
Ivana Alawi sizzles as Tanduay calendar girl
IVANA ALAWI MANILA (Mabuhay) — Actress and social media star Ivana Alawi was unveiled as the 2021 calender girl of rhum brand Tanduay.
Alawi is seen posing in a variety of themed sets in the announcement video released by Tanduay, which described her as “capable, confident, and trendy.”
“The modern woman, redefining the calendar girl,” the brand added.
On Instagram, Alawi shared a snap from the calendar which sees her donning a revealing bodysuit apparently made of diamonds.
Her stint as a calendar girl is the latest “dream come true” for Alawi, who in the past year has had a meteoric rise to fame as in-demand actress and social media personality.
Alawi recently personally re-packed and distributed relief goods to victims of Typhoon Ulysses in Isabela and Cagayan.
In a departure from her fun entries on YouTube, Alawi shared in detail her charity initiative, from the bundling of the supplies, to the distribution to evacuees.
“I hope marami akong mapapasaya. Iyon lang naman ang gusto ko mangyari — to help people, to inspire people. No matter how small, how big it is, a blessing is a blessing. Life is beautiful, and life is worth sharing with everyone,” she said.
Alawi’s first stop was Santo Tomas in Isabela, where she met with displaced families and handed them the goods she had packed.
“It makes me really happy, ‘yung pagbigay ng tulong sa kapwa Pilipino na nangangailangan. Para sa akin, ginamit ako ni Lord para maging instrumento para makatulong sa iba,” she said.
“I feel really blessed and I feel really happy doing this, making other people happy, and knowing that maraming pamilya ang makakakain ngayong araw na ‘to.”
In coordination with the provincial government of Cagayan, Alawi then personally distributed goods at a covered court in Tuguegarao City. (MNS)
