BusinessMirror December 08, 2021

WB report: Covid scarring cuts PHL growth

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HE extent of the economic scarring caused by the pandemic has cut the country’s long-term economic growth potential to only 5.7 percent on average between 2020 and 2029, according to the World Bank.

In its Philippine Economic Update titled Regaining Lost Ground, Revitalizing the Filipino Workforce, the World Bank said this is significantly lower than the pre-pandemic growth rate of over 6 percent.

The World Bank now expects the country to post a growth of 5.3 percent this year; 5.9 percent in 2022; and 5.7 percent in 2023. Inflation is expected to average 3.3 percent this year; 3.9 percent next year; and 3.2 percent in 2023.

“Mobility restrictions are overtime having less impact on economic activities. As a result, the economy

expanded by 4.9 percent in the first three quarters of 2021, rebounding from its 10.1 percent contraction over the same period in 2020,” Ndiame Diop, World Bank Country Director for Brunei, Malaysia, Philippines and Thailand, said in a briefing on Tuesday.

“Now going forward, the new variant has added a layer of uncertainty but we clearly see the recovery trend continuing in the last quarter of this year bringing the economy to a forecast of 5.3 percent growth for 2021 accelerating to an average 5.8 percent in 2022-2023,” he also said.

The lower growth potential ref lected the business closures during the pandemic. The report noted that nearly 10 percent of firms in the Philippines have closed and do not expect to reopen in shortterm while 15 percent have closed

but expect to reopen at a lower capacity.

T hese business closures are leading to permanent job and income losses as well as the “erosion of valuable intangible assets.” The World Bank said these include management and technical know-how, employee competencies, and value network and relationships.

The report also said firms that managed to survive “face impaired balance sheets and are deferring productive investments.”

With high unemployment, disruptions in the education of children, and malnutrition, the World Bank also expressed concern that human capital and Filipino’s “future earning potential” are also being eroded.

“The challenge is to limit the scarring by capitalizing on growth

opportunities such as the acceleration of digitalization, and implementing a catch-up plan to mitigate the adverse socio-economic impacts of the pandemic,” the report said.

Poverty

The jobs lost to the pandemic will lead to a higher poverty rate. The World Bank estimated this would mean a poverty rate of 22 percent in 2020 and 21.3 percent in 2021, based on the lower middle-income poverty line of $3.20 a day in 2011 purchasing power parity (PPP).

The World Bank said the social assistance under Bayanihan to Heal as One Act (Bayanihan 1) was not enough to prevent more people from falling into poverty.

See “Covid,” A2

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Wednesday, December 8, 2021 Vol. 17 No. 61

HIGHER PRICES LOOM IN EARLY ’22–EXPERTS

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P25.00 nationwide | 2 sections 24 pages | 7 days a week

2-M WOMEN REJOINED PHL LABOR FORCE BUT…

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V ER two million women rejoined the labor force in October but not all of them may have found decent jobs, according to the latest data released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), which reported higher underemployment on Tuesday.

According to PSA, 3.5 mill ion Fi l ipi nos were u nemployed wh i le 7.0 4 m i l l ion were underemployed in October. The country’s unemployment rate reached 7.4 percent while underemployment was at 16.1 percent. (Story here: https://businessmirror.com.

AMBASSADOR Kazuhiko Koshikawa takes a selfie with Philippine Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Leopoldo V. Laroya in front of the patrol vessel BRP Malabrigo, as he makes a courtesy call at the Coast Guard National Headquarters in Port Area, Manila, on Tuesday, December 7, 2021. During the courtesy call, Koshikawa boarded the Malabrigo for a presentation of equipment and a demonstration of its capabilities. Through Japanese ODA, the BRP Malabrigo was provided to the PCG, equipped with the latest tools and technology. Story on page A5. ROY DOMINGO

By Cai U. Ordinario

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@caiordinario

HILE global recovery and the easing of mobility restrictions are giving many Filipinos some holiday cheer this time of the year, local economists said these are among the reasons that will likely make them face higher commodity prices not only this year, but at least until the first quarter of 2022.

See “Prices,” A2

ph/2021/12/07/3-5-millionjobless-in-oct-as-unemployment-improves-by-7-5/) Former Labor Undersecretary Rene E. Ofreneo said with the increase in underemployment, this only means a lot of Filipinos are eager to work, including millions of women.

The PSA said some 2.239 million women rejoined the labor force in October alone.

“This means people, including the new labor entrants, are raring to go back to work or to get employed—except that good, See “Labor,” A2

Senate, House OK bicameral report on FIA

By Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz

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@joveemarie

HE Senate and the House of Representatives on Tuesday separately ratified the bicameral committee report on the bill amending the Foreign Investment Act of 1991.

The bill, which seeks to further open up the economy, is one of the priority liberalization measures of the Duterte administration.

The House first ratified the bicameral report earlier in the day.

Sen. Imee Marcos then read it aloud in the Senate, where it was unanimously adopted. Once ratified, the

bill will be immediately transmitted to the President for signature.

Among the salient features of the bill is the creation of the InterAgency Investment Promotions Coordination Committee (IIPCC), the body that will integrate all promotion and facilitation efforts to encourage foreign investments in the country.

Under the bill, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) shall act as the IIPCC lead agency.

The measure said the IIPCC shall be composed of DTI, Department of Finance, Board of Investments, Philippine Economic Zone Authority, Department of Foreign Affairs,

National Economic and Development Authority, Department of Information and Communications Technology, Commission on Higher Education, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority.

The measure also mandates the IIPCC to establish both a mediumand long-term foreign investment promotion and marketing plan.

As part of the drive to liberalize and attract more investors, the bill reduces the number of direct hires that foreign firms are required to have, from 50 to just 15 workers.

Then a minimum paid-in capital of US$100,000 shall be allowed to non-Philippine nationals.

Registered foreign enterprises employing foreign nationals and enjoying fiscal incentives are mandated to implement an understudy or skills development program to ensure the transfer of technology or skills to Filipinos. Compliance with this requirement shall be regularly monitored by the Department of Labor and Employment.

The alien firms are also allowed by the measure to set up, and have 100-percent ownership, of small and medium enterprises as long as their products and services do not fall within Lists A and B of the Foreign Investment Negative List provided under this proposal.

PESO exchange rates n US 50.3700 n japan 0.4440 n UK 66.8259 n HK 6.4577 n CHINA 7.8997 n singapore 36.8013 n australia 35.5058 n EU 56.8577 n SAUDI arabia 13.4273 Source: BSP (7 December 2021)

A2

Wednesday, December 8, 2021

BusinessMirror

BSP sees inflation decelerating; ’22 and ’23 target bands doable

By Bianca Cuaresma

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@BcuaresmaBM

HE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) remained confident that the country’s inflation print will decelerate to below 4 percent next year, despite missing their forecast for the month of November.

BSP Governor Benjamin Diokno told reporters on Tuesday that inflation will continue to decelerate in the coming months to within the target band of 2 to 4 percent for 2022 and 2023.

“The November 2021 inf lation of 4.2 percent was slightly higher-thananticipated, settling above the BSP’s forecast range for the month of 3.3 to 4.1 percent…Nonetheless, average inf lation is still projected to fall within the government’s target range in 2022 and 2023 as supply-side pressures moderate,” the governor said.

Inflation went down from 4.6 percent in the previous month, nearer to the 4 percent ceiling of the government’s

Prices. . .

Continued from A1

On Tuesday, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) disclosed that commodity prices increased 4.2 percent in November 2021, slower than the 4.6 percent posted in October 2021 but higher than the 3.3 percent posted in the same period last year. (Story found here: https://businessmirror.com. ph/2021/12/07/cheaper-food-slowsinflation-in-november/)

Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) f lag ged on Tuesday that inf lation remains relatively elevated despite

favorable base effects.

In their research analysis published on the same day, BPI said inflation at 4.2 percent coming from a high November 2020 base “clearly demonstrates that inflation is not transitory.”

“With demand soaring this quarter and possibly in the coming year due to the improvement in mobility, second-round effects are likely to pick up rather fast. The increase in demand is also expected to exert pressure on the Peso through imports, which in turn may exacerbate the increase in consumer prices,” BPI said.

The bank continues to expect rate hikes from the BSP in the second half of 2022.

“Failure to adjust policy settings before the Federal Reserve is forced to belatedly adjust its asset purchases, and policy rates can translate to bigger adjustment and more market volatility down the road,” BPI said.

In a separate analysis, ING Bank economist Nicholas Mapa also said that while the governor has openly

expressed his intention to keep rates low for as long as possible, a rate hike could come in at around the second quarter of 2022.

“Despite the upside surprise for today’s inflation report, we expect the central bank to keep rates unchanged at the last policy meeting for the year on 16 December. We do however expect the BSP to possibly adjust its stance by the second quarter 2022 as growth dynamics will likely improve considerably,” Mapa said.

“Governor Diokno, has indicated in the past that he would like to see more evidence of a ‘solid economic recovery’ before considering a shift in policy stance. We expect the Philippines to post robust growth numbers over the next two quarters, which may be enough to convince Governor Diokno to finally decide to adjust his current accommodative stance,” the economist added.

In his Tuesday statement, Diokno said they continue to “stand ready” to maintain the accommodative monetary policy stance to support recovery “while also guarding against any emerging risks to its price and financial stability objectives.: The Monetary Board will review its assessment of the global and domestic economic environments for the monetary policy meeting on December 16.

The global recovery has made oil prices hover at the $70 barrel level, pushing up transportation costs in November.

Inflation of transportation increased to 8.8 percent while the increase in housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels reached 4.6 percent in November.

“Oil price hikes have a damaging impact. And so are the reported world-wide disruptions in supply chains. Oil prices are now being moderated by the US action in opening up its oil reserves and the lack of unity among the oil producers on how to manage the global supply,” former Dean of the University of the

Philippines School of Labor and Industrial Relations (SOLAIR) Rene E. Ofreneo told BusinessMirror in an email.

Ofreneo said the US-China and China versus the world trade conflicts may also trigger price hikes because China is the world’s source of cheap goods.

Further, he said the recovery of many businesses trying to recoup lost incomes and seeking new ways of doing business by increasing prices, could drive prices to increase.

The National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) said non-food inflation slightly rose to 4.1 percent

from 3.8 percent for the same period due to high international crude oil prices.

In a bid to support qualified public utility jeepney operators amid high oil prices, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board has started distributing cash grants worth P1 billion through its Pantawid Pasada Program. As of November 24, around 78,000 of 136,000 target beneficiaries have received fuel subsidies.

The government earlier increased the passenger capacity for public utility vehicles (PUVs) from 50 percent to 70 percent in areas under Alert Level 2 to increase mobility and help PUV drivers earn more.

Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Karl Kendrick T. Chua recommended further increasing passenger capacity to up to 100 percent for all transport types as vaccination rates increase.

target in November. It was, however, faster than the BSP’s and the market’s expectations for the month.

Diokno also said the risks to inflation for next year have risen, as the potential impact of weather disturbances on the prices of key food items, petitions for transport fare hikes, and the possibility of a prolonged recovery of domestic pork supply could affect inflation.

The governor said global demand amid persistent supply-chain bottlenecks could also push up international commodity prices.

Meanwhile, potentia l delays in the lifting of domestic containment measures, as well as the emergence of more transmissible Covid-19 variants, cou ld dampen prospects for both global and domestic demand and temper inf lationar y pressures.

BPI analysis

Easing mobility restrictions

For De La Salle University economist Maria Ella Oplas, seeing inflation increase at this time is not unusual due to the increase in demand. This demand is even greater with the easing of mobility restrictions.

This increase in prices, Oplas told BusinessMirror, will likely continue to the first quarter next year given the further reopening of the economy. She added that businesses having the courage to open again, classes opening, and election spending will contribute to this.

“With the opening of the economy and the entrance of the 4th quarter which is holiday season for us Filipinos, it is normal to see inflation to increase or on top relative to the other quarters,” Oplas said.

“Definitely, relative to spending last year we are spending more now because of the opening of the economy. Hence, we cannot say that the increase is only because of the rise in global oil prices,” she added.

Unionbank Chief Economist Ruben Carlo Asuncion agreed that high oil prices definitely pushed up inflation in November, particularly non-food inflation.

Asuncion noted that non-food inflation surged 4.1 percent in November from 3.8 percent in October. Food inflation, he said, averaged 3.9 percent, slower than the 5.3 percent in October, offsetting some of the increase in the prices of non-food commodities.

In terms of weighted impact, broad food contributed 1.5 percent to inflation while non-food was accountable for 2.5 percent, he said.

“Oil prices have actually eased with OPEC agreeing to additional supply. Moreover, the Omicron variant risk has also been a drag to resurgent global demand. I see that in the short- to medium-term the disinflation narrative is largely expected,” Asuncion said.

On Monday, the downward price adjustment came after international oil prices decreased week-on-week by almost $2.30 per barrel. MOPS gasoline and MOPS diesel have also decreased by nearly $5.30 per barrel and $2.90 per barrel, respectively, according to the latest oil monitoring data of the Department of Energy (DOE).

Last week, oil companies implemented a price cut of P1.10 per liter for gasoline, P0.60 per liter for diesel and P0.50 per liter for kerosene.

These resulted in the year-to-date adjustments to stand at a total net increase of P18.10/liter for gasoline, P15.70/liter for diesel and P13.19/ liter for kerosene.

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Labor. . .

Continued from A1

quality jobs are not that many,” Ofreneo told BusinessMirror via email.

“Yes, I see some connection because many jobs taken by a large number of women workers are in the informal sector where work is precarious,” he added.

Based on PSA data obtained by BusinessMirror, around 2.28 million women are underemployed as of October—or an increase of 466,000 women compared to October 2020.

The data also showed some 1.556 million women are considered engaged in visible underemployment while another 723,000 were considered part of the invisibly underemployed.

The PSA said people who are visibly underemployed are those working for less than 40 hours during the reference period and want additional hours of work.

Former Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Emmanuel F. Esguerra earlier explained that invisibly underemployed Filipinos are those working full-time, around 40 hours per week, but were still looking for additional work or additional hours of working.

The visibly underemployed women increased by 366,000 from 1.19 million in October 2020. The trend was the same with those who were invisibly underemployed, which increased 99,000 from 624,000 in October 2020.

“With the advent of the Christmas season, more jobs are likely to be created. Election spending on campaigners and trollers also (will) likely have a positive impact on job creation,” Ofreneo said.

“The problem is once again: are these good, quality and sustainable jobs? The challenge to the government is to strengthen industrial and agricultural development,” he stressed.

But for economists like De La Salle University’s Maria Ella Oplas, the underemployment data for women may be a good thing, especially if this means more of them are finding their way to the gig economy.

Oplas said one reason many women may have found their way back to the workforce is through home-based or online jobs that allow them to contribute to the household income while staying at home.

This, she said, could explain working for less than 40 hours a week. Based on the PSA data, the average working hours in October was only 39.7 hours, lower than the 40.8 hour average in October 2020 and 41.8 hour average in July 2021.

The PSA told BusinessMirror that mean hours worked decreased in October because Filipinos who worked less than 40 hours accounted for 21.5 percent of the labor force. This reflected the 22.6-percent increase in the underemployed.

“It does not necessarily speak of the quality of available jobs in the economy. But it represents the hunger of women to supplement household income while at the same time child caring,” Oplas said.

“It represents women’s economic empowerment working during the pandemic.”

With shorter hours, women have the option to take on even more part-time employment, giving them higher incomes which boost household incomes.

This means even younger women like students can also contribute to the household income. Oplas noted students who are doing art commissioning part-time, but allowed them to earn during the pandemic.

The gig economy, due to the flexibility it offers workers, will become even more attractive to Filipinos in the near- or mid-term future.

Oplas said the gig economy is the future and will only be attractive with the convenience of making online transactions.

“Actually, it’s not necessarily lower salary because they have the freedom to accumulate a number of ‘gigs’ at the same time. If that is the point, there is a possibility that they are actually going to earn more,” Oplas said. “It’s more of the flexibility and lesser barriers to entry that makes the gig economy enticing.”

Not the last pandemic

Changing the mindset of Filipinos from pandemic to endemic is crucial, according to the President’s economic managers. This, they said, is the reason for the need to create a pandemic flexibility bill.

In the joint statement, the economic team said this will complement the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act. Moreover, a “pandemic playbook” will cull all the lessons we have learned over nearly two years of coping with Covid-19.

“The country’s economic performance has exceeded expectations in 2021. The road ahead remains challenging, but we assure the Filipino people that we have all the elements in place to recover quickly and strongly from the pandemic and grow rapidly in the years to come.

“To further accelerate our recovery, the economic development cluster has approved a 10-point agenda to shift the country from a pandemic to endemic paradigm,” the statement said.

The 10-point policy agenda covers these areas: 1) metrics; 2) vaccination; 3) healthcare capacity; 4) economy and mobility; 5) schooling; 6) domestic travel; 7) international travel; 8) digital transformation; 9) pandemic flexibility bill; and 10) medium-term preparation for pandemic resilience. Cai U. Ordinario

Covid. . .

Continued from A1

The increase in poverty particularly will likely be evident in Luzon and urban areas—the locations significantly affected by the stringent mobility restrictions to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

“The increase in poverty has likely been less in rural areas, Visayas and Mindanao due to a combination of factors, which include less restrictive mobility measures and thus businesses shutdown, predominance of agriculture which was less affected by the crisis, and emergency cash transfers under the Bayanihan Act,” the World Bank said.

However, the World Bank said poverty is expected to start slowing in 2021, beginning with urban areas and parts of Luzon, with the easing of mobility restrictions.

Povert y in areas reliant on rural sectors such as agriculture and traditional ser v ices as well as households in poor regions that are dependent on private transfers may see a slower reduction in povert y.

“If growth forecasts hold and household incomes recover, the poverty rate will likely continue a slow downward trend through 2022. However, rising inflation and reimpositions of stricter quarantines over extended periods risk slowing down the pace of poverty reduction,” the report stated. “This foreshadows that the crisis will have long-lasting effects on Filipinos’ well-being.”

The World Bank explained in the report that poverty estimates differ from the estimates derived from the World Bank MacroFiscal Model (MFMOD) that appear in the Macro Poverty Outlook.

The MFMOD model projects poverty based on the overall GDP growth and the income elasticity of poverty. The projections in this report are based on a macro-microsimulation model, which combines population and macroeconomic projections over 20202022 with precrisis data from the 2018 Family Income and Expenditure Survey (FIES) to predict income at the individual and household levels.

The model uses labor markets as the main transmission mechanism and allows for two types of shocks: (1) shocks to labor income, including employment shocks and earnings shocks from the pandemic, and (2) shocks to non‐labor income, including changes in private transfers and changes in social protection mechanisms (transfers from Bayanihan to Heal as One Act). Cai U. Ordinario

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The Nation BusinessMirror

Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug • Wednesday, December 8, 2021 A3

HDO vs Pichay Ibpap sees hiring of more stays, SC rules BPO workers in the regions

By Joel R. San Juan

@jrsanjuan1573

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HE Supreme Court (SC) has denied the plea of Surigao del Sur 1st District Rep. Prospero Pichay Jr. to lift the hold departure order (HDO) issued by the Sandiganbayan in connection with the criminal charges filed against him related to the purchase of shares of stock of Express Savings Bank Inc. (ESBI) amounting to P780 million during his term as chair of the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA).

In a decision released by the SCPublic Information Office on November 24, 2021, the SC held that Pichay failed to prove that there was grave abuse of discretion on the part of the Sandiganbayan in issuing the HDO in 2016, denying the lawmaker’s motion to lift the HDO in a resolution issued last March 16, 2018 and June 19, 2018.

“Criminal prosecutions should be allowed to run their course without undue delay. Pichay, as one facing criminal charges with the People of the Philippines as the offended party, should hold himself amenable to court orders and processes at all times. Otherwise, such orders and processes would serve no purpose if he would be allowed to leave the country outside the reach of the courts,” the SC said.

“An accused in a criminal case may be issued an HDO, as a valid restriction on their right to travel, so that they may be dealt with in accordance with law,” it added.

In his petition before the SC, Pichay insisted that the general rule is that the right to travel shall not be impaired and may be restricted only in the interest of national security, public safety, or public health, as may be provided by law.

Pichay asserted that none of the allowable limitations on the right to travel are present in his case.

Furthermore, the lawmaker maintained that the mere posting

of bail does not operate as a waiver of the requisites prescribed by the Constitution for the curtailment of the right to travel.

The SC explained, however, that while the right to travel and to freedom of movement is a fundamental right guaranteed by the 1987 Constitution and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the exercise of such right “is not absolute.”

As stated under the 1987 Constitution, the SC pointed out that courts can impair the right to travel on the grounds of “national security, public safety, or public health” and “as may be provided by law.”

The SC stressed that the HDO issued by the Sandiganbayan “is but an exercise of its inherent power to preserve and maintain the effectiveness of its jurisdiction” over the respondent.

Likewise, the Court noted that Pichay posted bail under the obligation that he will hold himself amenable at all times to the orders and processes of the court.

“The condition imposed upon Pichay to make himself available at all times whenever the court requires his presence operates as a valid restriction on his right to travel,” the SC added.

Pichay has been indicted before the Sandiganbayan for alleged violation of Section Xl 26.2(c)(l)(2) of the Manual of Regulation for Banks (MORB); three counts of violation of Section 3(e) of RA No. 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act for fund releases for the purchase of 445,377 ESBI shares at P80,003,070.51, deposit and/or capital infusion of P400 million and deposit of P300 million.

Pichay allegedly failed to comply as then chairman of the LWUA with the requirement of prior approval of the President, under Administrative Order No. 59 and Monetary Board, under Section X126.2, Part I of the MORB, before purchasing the shares of stock of ESBI.

By Tyrone Jasper C. Piad @TyronePiad

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HE business-process outsourcing (BPO) sector sees more employment in the countryside with the continued implementation of remote working moving forward.

Jack Madrid, president of the IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines (Ibpap), said during the Arangkada forum on Tuesday that the work-from-home (WFH) arrangement has allowed the industry to expand its talent pool across the country.

“Work-from-home, work-fromanywhere, is here to stay. This is not just a one-time thing. This will be part of our business models moving forward. So the next six to 12 months is critical on how we manage this next stage of growth for the industry,” he said.

In particular, he is seeing a hike in employment in Bacolod, Davao, Iloilo, Dumaguete and Baguio, among others, for the sector.

“We are in a unique position in the country to be able to leverage our multiple cities, our Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, and spread the economic growth,” Madrid added.

The Ibpap official explained that remote working may also boost employee satisfaction given its flexibility, which may also lead to reduced attrition and unscheduled absences.

This, in addition to decongesting Metro Manila, he said.

In terms of employment, a recent Ibpap survey revealed that 56 percent expect to have doubledigit growth in their work force this year.

Some 6 percent projects flat growth in headcount, while the remainder sees single-digit improve-

ment, Madrid explained, adding that no one expects a decline in the number of employees.

“Clearly, despite the challenges of the past two years of Covid-19 with global industry, the Philippines continues to be bullish with massive opportunities to drive further growth in the years ahead,” he added.

He said the outlook is supported by the following BPO segments: health management, animation, game development, software and financial services.

Earlier, Ibpap Trustee Celeste Ilagan suggested making some amendments on existing laws to allow the IT-business process management (IT-BPM) sector to implement WFH scheme in the long term and even after the pandemic.

She said that the “work-fromhome business model was sort of forced upon us by the pandemic

and our partners in government responded quickly to our needs by allowing us to be able to take out our equipment from office and putting a policy that allows us to work 90 percent from home and 10 percent in the centers.”

Ilagan pointed out that “this may not be the right ratio,” however, adding the need to have “a continuation of this type of policy.”

“There should be an agreement between the industry and government as to what the best balance is,” she said. “But certainly, legislation that will sort of institutionalize the Philippines’ response to this global working trend is necessary.”

The Fiscal Incentives Review Board approved the extension until March 31, 2022 of WFH arrangements for up to 90 percent of the employees in the IT-BPM sector amid the pandemic.

Experts list top climate-induced risks, push action plan to minimize loss and damage

By Jonathan L. Mayuga @jonlmayuga

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HE country’s climate experts have identified the top 10 climate-induced risks and proposed action plans to minimize loss and damage to boost the country’s resilience to climate change.

The Climate Change Commission’s National Panel of Technical Experts (NPTE) said the top 10 climate-induced risks namely: (1) sea-level rise, (2) coastal erosion, (3) flooding, (4) increase in frequency and severity of tropical cyclones, (5) extreme drought, (6) temperature increase/rising urban heat index, (7) extreme rainfall, (8) climate influenced diseases, (9) wind patterns, and (10) biodiversity loss.

The top 10 climate-induced risks were identified in a round-

table discussion during the annual observance of the 14th Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Week.

To address these challenges, the NPTE has also laid out climate science, innovative technologies, and strategies for multi-sectoral cooperation for national and local governments to minimize loss and damage from climate-induced risks and achieve long-term resilience.

T he roundtable discussion brought together state universities and colleges, higher education institutions, local government unit representatives, and various national government agencies, to highlight the importance of local involvement in climate action.

According to the NPT’s Dracie B. Zolenta-Nantes, there’s a need to push for collaboration between

local government units and higher education institutions to generate regional databases on climate change concerns and issues, integrate climate change adaptation programs in university extension and research, reorganize disaster risk reduction management councils and increase community groups’ scientific knowledge on disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation to inform the people and facilitate their access to the People’s Survival Fund.

Patricia Ann J. Sanchez said, for her part, that looking at the commonalities in terms of challenges in the cities of Cagayan de Oro, Ormoc, Angeles, Legazpi, and Tagum, some challenges, which include sea-level rise and coastal inundation, saltwater intrusion, waste management, higher rainfall intensity leading to

higher flooding and rain-induced landslide, water supply and demand, drought, poor city zoning, and urban heat island effect, are happening and quite common in the five cities.

Meanwhile, Merriam M. Santillan, an engineer said the recent experiences in flood hazard mapping made clear that local government units are really in need of technical capacity-building activities, for them to maximize the use of the latest technologies, and to help them enhance their resilience and reduce their vulnerability to climate impacts like flooding.

“Therefore, higher education institutions must continuously engage with the local community to inform and capacitate them to mitigate the negative impacts of flooding, as well as in evaluating adaptation strategies,” Santillan added.

‘Youth crucial in Bongbong-Sara No double metal plates: Gordon refutes UniTeam’s push for national unity’ critics of motorbike crime prevention law

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HE son of presidential aspirant and former Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., Ferdinand Alexander’ Sandro’ Marcos, acknowledged the vital role of the youth in the country’s bid for national unity, an advocacy of the BBM-Sara UniTeam.

In a recent interview by local media in Valencia, Bukidnon, Sandro said, “Ang mga kabataang Pilipino ay integral sa pagkakaisa ng buong bansa.”

“The youth are vital, not just for the present but for the future of the country,” he added.

According to a news release from the Marcos camp, Sandro received a warm welcome from thousands of supporters of the BBM-Sara UniTeam as he represented his father at the huge crowd event in Bukidnon.

Bongbong Marcos’s eldest son admitted it is normal for him to feel a little “pressure” from be-

ing compared to his father and his grandfather.

“Of course, it’s normal for me to feel pressured. My grandfather was a president who did many things for the people. My father helped many people, not just in Ilocos but nationwide. But I think what I can say and safely, positively do, is try my best; and the good thing is that my father is there to support me, Majo Martin [Majority Leader Romualdez] is there to help me,” Sandro said in Filipino.

The 27-year-old Sandro wants to create his unique leadership style. He said he will try to match or surpass the achievements of his grandfather and his father, who was a former senator and governor.

“It’s been two years since I worked in Congress, and I learned a lot. I think I’m ready not just to serve my countrymen but to put my own style of leadership, my brand of service,” he said.

Sandro, who is running for a congressional seat for the first district of Ilocos Norte, attended the Unity Rally in Bukidnon for the BBM-Sara UniTeam.

The young Marcos apologized for the absence of his father and his running mate, Davao Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio, in the event.

He said they will attend the next organized BBM-Sara UniTeam in Bukidnon.

The BBM-Sara UniTeam Bukidnon sorties were led by Valencia City Mayor Azucena Huervas, ViceMayor Pol Murillo, Councilor Oliver Garcia, Congressmen Rogelio Niel Roque (1st District) and Congressman John Flores Bukidnon (2nd District) vice-gubernatorial bet Pastor Dan Dangalo and Councilor Oliver Garcia, president of the Philippine Councilors League.

Also at the event was Sandro’s uncle, House Majority Leader Romualdez.

By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM

S

EN. Richard J. Gordon, refuting critics of the motorcycle crime prevention law, clarified Tuesday the version of law he authored to prevent the commission of crimes by motorcycle-riding suspects did not impose double metal number plates.

Denounced as the “doble plaka” law, traffic enforcers were reported to have recently required it on all motorcycles.

Gordon, chairman of the Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights, asserted Republic Act (RA) 11235, or the Motorcycle Crime Prevention Act, was enacted into law to protect motorcycle riders and potential victims of crimes by so-called riding-in-tandem criminals.

“The law seeks to protect the general public, including motorcycle riders, from crimes committed using motorcycles as getaway vehicle, such as extrajudicial killings, and to give

justice to the dead men who can tell no tales,” he said.

Gordon reminded: “Let us not poison the minds of our people with misinformation and disinformation, and use the intent of the law as a political propaganda to fuel any misplaced ire of our motorcycle riders whose safety is our paramount concern.”

At the same time, Manila Mayor Isko Moreno was also reported to have referred to RA 11235 as “Motorcycle Prevention Act” that he claimed “only discriminates motorcycle riders.”

However, Gordon griped that “this is a misnomer because if one would carefully peruse the law’s implementing rules and regulations, it does not impose a metal number plate in the front of the motorcycle.”

Gordon clarified that “sticker or decal number plate will be placed in front of the motorcycle, and not metal number plates.”

“Hindi po metal number plate,” said the lawmaker, lamenting that

“this is obviously a fake news meant to gain brownie points among motorcycle riders. Let us not use this law as a political propaganda,” he added.

Enacted into law after President Duterte signed the enabling legislation in March 2019, Republic Act 11235 mandates bigger, readable and color-coded number plates and identification marks to “secure and safeguard the public from crimes committed with the use of motorcycles.”

In turn, the law’s Implementing Rules and Regulations, mandate the Land Transportation Office (LTO) to issue a set of bigger, readable, and color-coded number plate for every motorcycle consisting of a metal plate at the motorcycle’s rear and a “decal plate” in front.

At the same time, Gordon clarified one important provision of the law is to mandate LTO to maintain a registry of motorcycles to facilitate information retrieval in the Philippine National Police’s official investigations and proper law enforcement.

Herbert, Robin other reservists seeking elective posts relieved

By Rene Acosta @reneacostaBM

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RMY reserve officers who are running in next year’s elections have been relieved of their posts in adherence to the Army’s apolitical stance.

Army spokesman Col. Xerxes Trinidad said the reservists were stripped of their duties and func-

tions by the Army Reserve Command (ARESCOM) in deference to the Army’s neutral stance in the upcoming polls.

He said actor and reservist Capt.

Robin Padilla, who is seeking a Senate seat, has quit his post as head of the communications panel of the Philippine Army’s Multi-Sectoral Advisory Board (MSAB).

Other reservists seeking elec-

tive posts have also been relieved of their positions. They are Brig.

Gen. Herbert Bautista, who is seeking a Senate seat; Col. Isidro Ungab, who is running for reelection as Davao City’s 3rd district representative; Lt. Col. Eugene Balitang, who is running to represent the lone district of Ifugao; Lt. Col. Jayvee Tyron Uy, who is joining the Davao de Oro vice

gubernatorial race; and Lt. Col. Rhodora Cadiao, who is seeking reelection as Antique governor.

Army chief and concurrent Armed Forces Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Andres Centino has reiterated the Army’s non-partisanship in next year’s elections.

Centino, in his recent command guidance, directed all Army units and personnel to avoid engaging in

partisan politics, maintain professionalism while performing their duties and avoid posting photos or videos that express political partisanship or gestures.

“We have proven that together with the Philippine National Police, the military is a dependable deputy of the Comelec in ensuring that we have a fair election,” Centino said in a recent interview.

“We assure the public that as a professional organization, the military will be non-partisan. We will perform our mandate of ensuring fair elections,” he added.

The Omnibus Election Code prohibit soldiers and law enforcement agencies from engaging in any partisan political activity, including campaigning for any candidate.

A4 Wednesday, December 8, 2021 • Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug

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COMP adopts ‘sustainable mining’ protocol initiative

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By Jonathan L. Mayuga

@jonlmayuga

HE Chamber of Mines of the Philippines (COMP) announced on Tuesday the adoption of the Climate Change Protocol of the Towards Sustainable Mining (TSM) initiative.

This brings to eight the number of measurement tools that COMPmembers will use to grade their environmental and social performance.

This came after the TSM Community of Interest (COI) Advisory Panel following the recommendation of COMP’s technical working group (TWG) that was tasked to

align TSM with the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management or Standard.

“A refocusing of TSM towards climate change adaptation instead of just carbon emission mitigating strategies is an important and welcome development,” Carlos Primo David, a COI panel member and

former chair of the National Panel of Technical Experts of the Climate Change Commission said in a news statement issued by COMP. “The efforts must remain strong for reforestation efforts and carbon footprint reduction, but the impact of climate change warrants ensuring business continuity and, more importantly, resilience in our communities in the near future,” he added.

David noted the climate change impacts will be more prevalent in tropical island nations such as the Philippines, highlighting the adoption of the climate change protocol and its supporting guide that will provide mining companies the required focus to attend to local impacts and, through this, enable them to contribute to the global effort to address climate change.”

For his part, COMP Chairman Gerard Brimo said “the adoption of the Climate Change Protocol will not only support the alignment with the Standard of COMP members with tailings facilities. It will also support the alignment of our nickel producers with other ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) standards, such as Responsible Steel. Moreover, the Climate Change Guide is the only mine-related reference that provides methods or procedures on incorporating climate change considerations in the mining operator’s decision-making process.”

TSM is a globally recognized sustainability program established in 2004 by the Mining Association of Canada that supports mining companies in managing key envi-

ronmental and social risks. The Standard, on the other hand, was issued in 2020 by the United Nations Environment Programme, the International Council on Mining and Metals, and the Principles for Responsible Investment to operators of tailings facilities worldwide, enjoining them to strive for zero harm to people and the environment from the earliest phases of project conception.

Apart from approving the adoption of the “Filipinized” version of the Climate Change Protocol, the COI—composed of 14 highly respected individuals from different sectors of society—likewise, approved the TWG’s recommendation to adopt the Guide on Climate Adaptation for the Mining Sector, as well as the revisions to the Tail-

ings Management Protocol and its three supporting documents: the Guide to the Management of Tailings Facilities; Operation, Maintenance, and Surveillance Manual; and the Table of Conformance. The revisions were made to ensure that TSM is responsive to Philippine conditions.

The six other TSM Protocols— all Filipinized from the MAC version—are Water Stewardship, Preventing Child and Forced Labor, Biodiversity Conservation Management, Health & Safety, Indigenous Peoples and Community Outreach, and Crisis Management.

In addition to Canada and the Philippines, the other TSM partner countries are Argentina, Australia, Botswana, Brazil, Colombia, Finland, Norway and Spain.

House panel begins deliberations on 4 bills granting 14th month pay for govt, private sector workers

By Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz @joveemarie

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AWMAKERS are pushing for the passage of bills providing for a 14th month pay for all workers.

On Tuesday, House Committee on Civil Service has started its deliberations on four pending measures mandating the 14th month pay for all employees regardless of status of employment.

Kabayan Rep. Ron Salo said his House Bill 666 or 14th Month Pay Law mandate that all employers in government and private sector shall be required to give their employees a 14th month pay, regardless of the employees’ status of employment.

Quezon City Rep. Jose Christopher

Belmote, Manila Rep. John Marvin Nieto and ACT-CIS Rep. Eric Go Yap have also filed a similar bill mandating the said pay.

Moreover, Salo said the 13th month pay shall be paid to the employees on or before May 31 of each year in anticipation of the school enrollment of the employees’ dependents. The 14th month pay shall be given to the employees on or before November 30 of each year in time for the traditional holiday celebrations.

“Despite the existence of the 13th month pay, many Filipino families still struggle to sufficiently provide for their families because of meager salaries, among others. With the continuously rising cost of living in the Philippines, it is incumbent upon

the State to address the plight of its workers in both the government and private sectors,” Salo said.

“With this proposal, we hope that we are able help our fellow Filipinos, especially the lowest of the lows, make ends meet and adequately provide for their families,” he added.

Salo said he recognizes that some employers may find it challenging to provide for this incentive to their employees because of the losses incurred due to the pandemic.

However, he stressed that those who are financially capable should be encouraged to provide a 14th month pay to their employees since these employees have allowed these industries to stand firm and weather the proverbial storm of the raging pandemic.

If the bill is passed, Salo said, the additional disposable income that workers will be able to receive would certainly help to encourage spending and revitalize our economy severely affected by the pandemic.

“More than anything, this is a recognition of the indispensable contribution of our workers in the progress and development of our country, both in the government and private sectors. They have endeavored to continue showing up to work despite the risks that the pandemic entails so that they can continue providing for their families and in turn, help their employers survive the pandemic,” Salo added.

Another committee meeting will be scheduled to consolidate the bills

and come up with a substitute bill, which shall clarify and refine the provisions of the proposed measure.

Director Gerald Janda of Organization Position, Classification and Compensation Bureau of the Department of Budget and Management said the government is already providing 14th month pay for its workers.

“We recognize the intention of these bills to protect the rights and promote the welfare of workers in the government. But may I just highlight that government employees are already receiving both the 13th and 14 month pay, which specifically called midyear and year-end bonus,” Janda said “Year-end bonus has already been

granted to employees since 1988.

This is annually provided to qualified government employees. Under RA 11466 or Salary Standardization Law 5, the midyear bonus was institutionalized, which is equivalent to one month basic salary this is being provided to qualified government employees not later than May 15 of every year,” he said.

However, Janda said contractual workers and job order workers are not entitled to midyear and year-end bonuses and other benefits.

“Those hired by government agencies without employers and employees relationship such as contract service and job orders workers are not covered by the grant of year-end and midyear bonus,” he said.

Makati LGU gives ₧1K gift checks to fully vaccinated senior citizens

By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco @claudethmc3

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AKATI City is making this Christmas merrier for elderly persons as long as they are fully vaccinated against Covid-19.

T he c it y gover n ment of M a k at i has distributed gift certificates worth P37,743,000 to some 37,743 fully vaccinated senior citizens.

“The P1K-gift check incentive was one of the strategic measures taken by my administration to encourage the elderly to have themselves vaccinated as early as possible. Our efforts have been rewarded because we have surpassed the target vaccination rate for their age group,” Mayor Abigail Binay said.

The mayor said the P1,000-gift check was part of the city’s initiatives to encourage senior citizens to get themselves inoculated against Covid-19.

Data from the Department of Health (DOH) showed that Makati has achieved a 105 percent of target in priority group A2, which is for senior citizens.

Binay emphasized the importance of being fully vaccinated, especially during the Christmas season.

“Senior citizens are among the most atrisk groups for severe cases of Covid-19. It is comforting to know that they now have the full protection of the vaccine, and can enjoy the holidays with less worries,” she said.

The mayor also encouraged senior citizens to get their booster shots so they have continuous protection against the virus. DOH data also showed that 9,774 senior citizens of Makati have received the booster shot.

“We are already giving booster shots for Makatizens who wish to avail of it. It would be best if our senior citizens have their booster shots in time for the holidays,” Binay said.

Farmers’ group urges senators to reject RCEP trade agreement

By Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz

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@joveemarie

FARMERS’ group on Tuesday urged the Senate to reject the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) trade agreement when it is presented for plenary deliberation this month.

In a news statement, the Federation of Free Farmers (FFF) challenged the senators to prove their “loyalty” to the country’s farmers by junking the treaty.

Under the Constitution, at least 16 or twothirds of the 24 senators must concur in the treaty before the country can join the trade bloc on its inception on January 1, 2022.

The RCEP consolidates the various bilateral trade agreements between the Philippines and Japan and the regional free trade agreements between Asean and China, South Korea, Japan, Australia and New Zealand.

The trade deal is set to enter into force by January next year after meeting the minimum number of ratification by signatories. As of Friday, the Asean Secretariat said that Bru-

nei Darussalam, Cambodia, Laos, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, China, Japan, Australia and New Zealand sent their Instrument of Ratification/Acceptance (IOR/A).

The Philippines, along with Indonesia, Myanmar, Malaysia and South Korea, have yet to submit their IOR/A. “Many farmers are fed up with the ‘import, import,import’policyofthecurrentgovernment and we will make sure that they will know how theirsenatorsvotedonthislife-and-deathissue,” said FFF National Manager Raul Montemayor.

“Despite the rosy predictions of some economists, there is nothing to show us that RCEP will reverse this trend. In fact, our actual experience for the past 25 years of trade liberalization give us sufficient basis to expect that things will get worse,” he said.

According to Montemayor, “We will be unable to take advantage of the so-called trade opportunities because of our seriously defective production and marketing systems. It will be our competitors who will capitalize on RCEP and flood us with imports.”

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DOH reports lowest daily Covid-19 case count since July 2020 on Tuesday

By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco @claudethmc3

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HE Department of Health (DOH) on Tuesday logged 356 Covd-19 cases, lowest since July last year, bringing the total number of infections in the Philippines to 2,835,345.

There were also 871 recoveries and 92 deaths.

Of the total number of infections, 0.5 percent (13,026) are active cases, 97.8 percent (2,772,728) have recovered, and 1.75 percent (49,591) have died.

The DOH said that of the 92 reported deaths, only three occurred in December 2021 and that 18 percent of the reported deaths on Tuesday occurred in November 2021 due to late encoding of death information to COVIDKaya.

“This issue is currently being coordinated with the Epidemiology and Surveillance Units to ensure information is up to date,” DOH said.

Six duplicates were removed from the total case count. These six are recoveries.

In addition, 159 cases were found to have tested negative and have been removed from the total case count.

Of these, 157 are recoveries.

Moreover, 87 cases that were previously tagged as recoveries were reclassified as deaths after final validation.

Two laboratories were not operational on December 5, 2021, while six labs were not able to submit their data to the Covid-19 Document Repository System.

Based on data in the last 14 days, the eight labs contribute, on average, 0.4 percent of samples tested and 3.6 percent of positive individuals.

Canlas is new Air Force chief replacing Paredes

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AJ. Gen. Connor Anthony D. Canlas is now the head of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) following the mandatory retirement of Lt. Gen. Allen T. Paredes on Tuesday.

Retirement and change-of-command ceremonies took place at PAF headquarters at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City.

Canlas is the PAF vice commander and former Air Defense Command chief, and a member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class of 1989.

In his speech, the new PAF chief lauded the service’s leadership for the improvements and remarkable changes in the organization in the past years.

He also lauded Paredes for showing them the “true meaning of ‘Malasakit’ [compassion] amidst various calamities and the Covid-19 pandemic.”

“Sir, we are truly grateful in serving with you in capacitating the PAF. As your successor, I will give my ut-

most love and devotion to the organization and its personnel,” he said.

Canlas believes continuity of the “previous command thrusts and frameworks” is key to having a more agile and dependable PAF. “As such, I am not really too keen on leaving legacies but my ultimate goal is to achieve the milestones set by our Flight Plan (2028) that was established by our predecessors,” he added.

Paredes, a member of PMA Class of 1988, was appointed PAF chief on January 16, 2020, replacing then Air Force commander, Lt. Gen. Rozzano Briquez, who retired after reaching 56.

Before he was appointed PAF chief, Paredes was former wing commander of the 250th Presidential Airlift Wing from February 2016 to July 2018.

Paredes was also among the members of a committee that probed the plane crash that killed former Interior Secretary Jesse Robredo in August 2012. PNA

Wednesday, December 8, 2021 A5

DA reminds ROFs, travelers: Leave out pork on your Christmas ‘pasalubong’ list

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By Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz

@joveemarie

HE Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) on Tuesday appealed to travelers, including returning overseas Filipinos (ROF), not to bring pork and other pork products as pasalubong this coming Christmas and New Year holidays to curb the spread of African swine fever (ASF) in the provinces.

At a news conference, BAI Director Reildrin Morales said travelers can help the government in its fight against ASF by not transporting pork and its meat products, including fresh, frozen or processed ham.

“Just to be sure, to all travelers in the coming holidays, please do not bring pork meat and its products because it could cause the spread of

ASF virus to ASF-free provinces,” he said.

According to Morales, BA I will further intensify its surveillance and biosecurity measures against A SF at barangay and local government units (LGU) levels to prevent the spread of ASF in other areas.

“We will focus on this in the com-

ing days to make sure travelers will not bring pork and its by products during their trips,” he said.

As of December 2, Morales said, ASF is only active in Nueva Viscaya, Quezon, Marinduque, Northern Samar, Easter Samar, Misamis Oriental, North Cotabato, Surigao del Sur, and Agusan del Norte.

“More than 500 places already have no reported ASF cases. We will have to make sure that the virus is not circulating anymore in these areas [and] recover them from the status of infected to freed,” he said.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) has said its hog repopulation and Bantay ASF sa Barangay (BABay ASF) programs, in partnership with local government units, hog raisers, and the private sector, are gradually boosting the local swine industry toward recovery.

Morales also said the DA has distributed 9,208 sentinel pigs to 3,601 farmers through its regional field offices as of November 26, 2021.

Morales explained that sentinel

DOLE exec: NERS program benefits 2-million Filipinos amid pandemic

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VER 2 million individuals benefited from the ongoing implementation of the government’s National Employment Recovery Strategy (NERS), according to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

The agency noted that the said beneficiaries of NERS, which consolidated existing government programs, were given aid to allow them to restore their businesses and livelihoods, upgrade and retool their skills, or access more employment opportunities. The initiative was able to assist 129,000 establishments and generate 780,119 jobs.

DOLE noted the implementation of the NERS, which aimed to help distressed firms and workers cope with the economic slowdown caused by the pandemic, helped in lowering unemployment in

October to 7.4 percent from 8.9 percent compared to the previous month.

It also helped increase employment to 92.6 percent in October from 91.1 percent the month before. However, it noted the quality of the said employment still needs to improve as shown by the 862,000 additional workers, who suffered underemployment last October.

Despite these improvements, Labor Assistant Secretary Dominique R. Tutay admitted it may still take some time before the country's employment figures return to pre-pandemic levels.

“If we lookatourpre-pandemicsituation, ourunemploymentrateisat5.1percentonly, which is equivalent to about 2.4 million but now it is at 7.4 percent that is equivalent to 3.5 million,” Tutay said in an interview with PTV on Tuesday. Samuel P. Medenilla

PCG shows off Japan-donated ship equally equipped with water cannon

PHILIPPINE Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Leopoldo V. Laroya and Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Kazuhiko Koshikawa do a fist bump during the envoy’s visit to the PCG Headquarters in Manila on Tuesday. ROY DOMINGO

By Malou Talosig-Bartolome

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HE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) showed off the patrol vessel donated by the Japanese government that can fire water cannon at any foreign vessel tresspassing the West Philippine Sea (WPS) or Philippine Rise.

A rainbow magically appeared as Coast Guard crew fired the water cannon from the BRP Malabrigo on

Tuesday at the Manila Bay. PCG Commandant Admiral Leopoldo V. Laroya and Japanese Ambassador Kazuhiko Koshikawa also boarded the multi-role response vessel (MRRV).

The water cannon is primarily used for firefighting, the Coast Guard stressed. Although they noted that the Chinese have used water cannons to stop or harass Philippine vessels from coming near their occupied artificial

islands, shoals or rocks at the WPS. Just last month, the Philippine government protested the Chinese Coast Guard’s use of water cannons on a Philippine civilian boat that was used to transport food to Filipino soldiers stationed at Ayungin Shoal in WPS. The 44-meter class MRRV has a maximum speed of not less than 24 knots, endurance of not less than 4,000 nautical miles, and capable of

conducting “sustained maritime patrols” in the WPS and Philippine Rise.

It saw action in the Scarborough Shoal, as well as in the Sulu Sea. It is one of the ships that the Philippine government acquired from the Japanese government under the Official Development Assistance loan amounting to JPY16.5-billion (P7.2 billion).

Built by Japan’s Shimonoseki Shipyard of Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co. Ltd. (Mitsubishi Ships) for the Philippines, BRP Malabrigo is modeled after Japan Coast Guard Kunigami-class vessels.

Both the Philippines and Japan face maritime threats from China, i.e. the South China Sea for the former and the East China Sea for the latter.

Ambassador Koshikawa vowed to continue to strengthen cooperation between the countries as he expressed support for the freedom of navigation in the South China Sea “under international law.”

“Sea lanes in the South China Sea are vitally important to Japan,” Koshikawa said.

Aside from territorial disputes, Japan and the Philippines are also facing other maritime challenges such as piracy, terrorism, natural disasters and illegal fishing.

“Sharing common geostrategic interest and views on the developing global securitylandscape,JapanandthePhilippines have developed a harmonious relationship that mutually addresses the call of times. Through various partnerships and collaborations, both nations has forge a bond as key partners, especially in the Maritime Security Domain,” the Japanese Embassy said in a statement.

pigs are those being monitored to find out if an infectious disease, like ASF, or other harmful agents are present.

The DA is distributing sentinel piglets in areas where there are no reported cases of ASF for at least 90 days.

Earlier, the DA said it will establish 10 community-based production facilities in ASF-free areas or “green zones” through clustering and consolidation in an initiative worth P50 million, including a climatecontrolled 300-head grower capacity building located in a bio-secured area and 16 swine breeder multiplier farms, worth P125 million, in partnership with hog farmers’ cooperatives and associations, LGUs, and state universities and colleges.

The government is allotting a total of P42.8 billion for lending to backyard and commercial hog raisers in ASF-free areas through the Land Bank of the Philippines (P30 billion), Development Bank of the Philippines (P12 billion) and the DA’s Agricultural Credit Policy Council (P800 million).

A6

TheWorld

Editor: Angel R. Calso

Wednesday, December 8, 2021

Thailand reports likely case of Omicron variant

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ANGKOK—A Thai health official said Monday that the country’s first suspected case of the new Omicron variant had been detected but authorities would withhold confirmation ahead of further test results.

Head of the Depar tment of Medical Sciences, Supakit Sirilak, said at a daily press briefing that the “likely” case of the Omicron variant had been identified in an American businessman who entered Thailand from Spain.

“The analysis result confirms a 99.92 percent chance of it being the Omicron variant. The ministry and private laboratories are now running parallel tests and we will know the result today.

Initially, it is likely to be the first omicron case of Thailand,” Supakit said at the briefing.

The US national tested positive for the coronavirus on December

1 after arriving in Thailand.

Supakit said the test result indicated the Omicron strain of the Covid-19 virus, but added that some traits of the variant hadn’t been detected in the test result. A second test on December 3 with a new sample from the visitor showed the same result.

Opas Karnkawinpong, director-general of the Department of Disease Control, said the 35- year-old American man had resided in Spain for one year before traveling to Thailand.

Currently, he has no symptoms but is being kept at a hospital.

Authorities said they have

Professor Dame Sarah Gilbert on June 11. In excerpts released ahead of a speech on, December 6, Prof. Sarah Gilbert, one of the scientists behind the Oxford-AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine, is warning that the next pandemic may more contagious and more lethal unless more money is devoted to research and preparations to fight emerging viral threats.

Steve Parsons/PA via AP

Scientist behind UK jab says next pandemic may be worse

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ONDON—One of the scientists behind the OxfordAstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine is warning that the next pandemic may be more contagious and more lethal unless more money is devoted to research and preparations to fight emerging viral threats.

In excerpts released before a speech Monday, Professor Sarah Gilbert says the scientific advances made in fighting deadly viruses “must not be lost” because of the cost of fighting the current pandemic.

“This will not be the last time a virus threatens our lives and our livelihoods,’’ Gilbert is

expected to say. “The truth is, the next one could be worse. It could be more contagious, or more lethal, or both.”

Gilbert will be speaking Monday night when she delivers this year’s Richard Dimbleby lecture, named after the late broadcaster who was the BBC’s first war correspondent and a pioneer of television news in Britain. The annual televised lecture features addresses by influential figures in business, science and government.

Gilbert is set to urge governments to redouble their commitment to scientific research and pandemic preparedness, even af-

tested several people who came into contact with the suspected case, but so far none have come back positive.

Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health on Monday reported 4,000 new cases of the coronavirus, with 22 deaths.

G o v e r n me nt s p ok e s m a n Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana said Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha had been informed of the case. Prayuth has previously said he foresaw no changes in plans to keep opening up the country, though he urged vigilance against the new strain of coronavirus and said all Thais should get vaccinated.

Thailand last month allowed many country’s nationals to enter if vaccinated and tested, in a bid to restore the lucrative tourism industry. The country was shut to most foreign visitors in April last year. Thailand recently barred visitors from eight African nations because of the new Omicron threat.

If confirmed, Thailand would be the 47th country to report the case of the new variant. AP ter the threat of Covid-19 wanes.

“We cannot allow a situation where we have gone through all we have gone through, and then find that the enormous economic losses we have sustained mean that there is still no funding for pandemic preparedness,’’ she said. “The advances we have made, and the knowledge we have gained, must not be lost.”

The UK lifted most coronavirus restrictions in July after a successful vaccination campaign, but is now waiting to see whether the new omicron variant will cause a setback. It has seen a high number of new daily infections this fall and still has the second-worst Covid-19 death toll in Europe—over 146,000 deaths—after Russia.

The government has tightened travel testing and isolation requirements and barred visitors from South Africa, where the variant was first identified, and several other African countries including Nigeria.

Health Secretary Sajid Javid said Monday more than 300 Omicron cases had been confir med in Br itain, some with no links to international travel, and “we can conclude that there is now community transmission across multiple regions of England.”

Muc h rem a i ns u n k now n about the variant, including whether it is more contagious as some health authorities suspect, whether it makes people more seriously ill, and whether it can thwart vaccines.

“We can’t say for certain at this point whether Omicron has the potential to knock us off our road to recovery,” Javid said. AP

Spain PM urges caution as hospital staff infected

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ADRID—Spain’s prime minister on Monday urged people to “remain prudent” about Covid-19 over the holidays, as Christmas festivities at one Spanish hospital are suspected of infecting dozens of staff.

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez told reporters that Spaniards can’t “let their guard down” because the coronavirus continues to spread, despite fewer cases and fewer difficulties for the health service than

this time last year.

The regional hospital of Malaga, a city on Spain’s southern coast, said 170 staff attended a Christmas dinner in a restaurant last weekend. Since then, 68 staff, including intensive care nurses and doctors, have tested positive for Covid-19.

The staff took antigen tests before t he e vent a nd were neg at ive, wh ic h i s m a k i ng authorities question whether the dinner gathering was the

cause of the outbreak, Spanish private news agency Europa Press reported.

T he i n fe c t e d s t a f f we re all fully vaccinated and are showing no symptoms, Europa Press said, citing unidentified hospital sources.

T he A nd a luc i a prov i nce, where Malaga is located, has recently witnessed a rise in cases. Its 14-day infection rate stands at 136 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. AP

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China’s November exports rise 21.4% but growth eases

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EIJING—China’s exports rose by double digits in November but growth declined, while imports accelerated in a sign of stronger domestic demand.

Exports rose 21.4 percent over a year earlier to $325.5 billion, decelerating from October’s 27.1 percent growth, customs data showed Tuesday. Imports surged 31.7 percent to $253.8 billion, up from the previous month’s 20.6 percent rate.

China’s exports have been boosted by foreign demand at a time when other global competitors are hampered by anti-coronavirus controls.

Stronger imports suggest consumer and other demand is rebounding after a dip brought on by a government crackdown on debt in the real estate industry.

Economic growth sank to an unexpectedly low 4.9 percent over a year earlier in the three months ending in September.

Factory activity also was hampered by power shortages that started in September and the global shortage of semiconductors used in products from

cars to smartphones. An earlier survey of manufacturers showed activity rebounded in November as power supplies returned to normal.

“Exports and imports beat expectations last month thanks to stronger demand and easing semiconductor shortages,” said Julian Evans-Pritchard of Capital Economics in a report.

“In the near-term, the emergence of the Omicron variant is likely to support demand for China’s exports,” said Evans-Pritchard. “But its impact further ahead is still uncertain.”

China’s global trade surplus fell 4.9 percent from a year earlier to $71.7 billion. That was smaller than October’s record $84.5 billion but still among the highest ever.

Exports to the United States rose 5.3 percent over a year earlier to $54.7 billion despite lingering tariff hikes in a dispute over Beijing’s technology ambitions and trade surplus.

Imports of American goods surged 22 percent to $17.8 billion, but China recorded a $37 billion surplus. AP

Facebook facing mounting legal fights over Myanmar genocide

F

acebook parent Meta Platforms Inc. is facing mounting legal challenges by Rohingya refugees who blame the social media company for inciting genocidal violence in 2017 against the Muslim minority in Myanmar.

The company allowed an “out-of-control spread of anti-Rohingya content” despite repeated warnings from civil society groups and human rights activists about its deadly consequences, according to a complaint filed Monday in state court in California.

Separately, members of the Rohingya community from Myanmar who now live in the UK and in refugee camps in Bangladesh told Meta they intend to pursue a lawsuit in the UK’s High Court over its failure to take action against hate on its platform.

The legal challenges add to the public scrutiny facing Meta following a series of critical media reports based on internal documents disclosed by former Facebook product manager-turned-whistle-blower Frances Haugen. The company is battling accusations that it has prioritized the growth of its platforms at the expense of fighting hate speech, disinformation and violent extremism.

“The last five years, and in fact just the last five months, have made it abundantly clear that Facebook’s path to promote the very worst of humanity was not the result of a bug but rather a carefully designed feature,” according to the complaint in San Mateo County Superior Court, near where Meta is based.

The plaintiff, who isn’t named in the lawsuit, is seeking more than $150 billion in damages on behalf of an estimated 10,000 Rohingya Muslims in the US who fled Myanmar after June 2012 to escape the threat of violence. Her lawsuit is seeking class action status.

In the UK legal challenge, the plaintiffs will argue that Facebook used algorithms that amplified hate speech against the Rohingya people and failed to invest in enough content moderators who spoke Burmese or Rohingya, according to the letter they sent the court.

“Despite Facebook’s acknowledgment of its role in such real-world harms and its proclaimed position as a positive force in the world, no meaningful compensation has been offered to any survivor,” the legal notice said.

On Thursday, 16 Rohingya young people and advocates in a refugee camp in Bangladesh plan to submit a complaint against Facebook to Ireland’s Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, arguing its social network incited violence against their community.

Meta didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.

Facebook instituted reforms after a company-commissioned study in 2018 found that its platform was being used to coordinate violent repression in Myanmar. More broadly, the company in recent years has stepped up use of artificial intelligence and human-powered system to rid its networks of problematic speech.

The company bans user-posted content that directs attacks against people on the basis of their race, country of origin, religion, sexual orientation and other sensitive attributes. It also bars users from posting messages that include calls for violence.

Facebook became so popular in Myanmar that for the majority of its digitally connected residents the social network had become synonymous with the Internet itself. Facebook dominated the developing market because it partnered with local mobile operators who agreed not to charge for the data used to support a cheap basic version of the app and it supported Myanmar fonts better than other tech platforms, according to the California suit.

By 2012, Myanmar’s military-dominated government and everyday users began spreading fearful and dehumanizing messages about Rohingya Muslims. By 2017, the site was being used to recruit and train “civilian death squads” to perpetuate violence, according to the complaint. In the end, tens of thousands of Rohingya were murdered while hundreds of thousands saw “indescribable violence and misery that they will carry with them for the rest of their lives,” the refugee alleged.

Lawyers for the refugee argue that unlike the federal Communications Decency Act that shields Internet platforms from lawsuits over user-generated content, “Burmese law does not immunize social media companies for their role in inciting violence and contributing to genocide,” according to the complaint.

Facebook is participating in an international investigation of the Myanmar genocide led by the West African nation Gambia, but was faulted by a judge in Washington, D.C. earlier this year for resisting disclosure of internal company records. Bloomberg News

Wednesday, December 8, 2021

A7

Deal to make Scholz German chancellor clears final hurdle B

ERLIN—A three-party deal to form a new German coalition government under center-left leader Olaf Scholz cleared its final hurdle Monday, setting the scene for him to succeed longtime Chancellor Angela Merkel later this week.

G e r m a ny ’s e nv i ron me nt a l i st Greens said their members approved the agreement reached last month, with 86 percent voting for it in a ballot. The other two parties—Scholz’s center-left Social Democrats and the pro-business Free Democrats—overwhelmingly backed the agreement at weekend conventions.

“We are going into a strong new government, with a very strong and diverse Cabinet, with strong tailwind from the ballot,” said Green co-leader Annalena Baerbock, who is set to become Germany’s first female foreign minister.

Her party made it clear that it sees efforts to curb climate change as the next government’s top priority. Other priorities include modernizing Europe’s biggest economy and introducing more liberal social policies.

Scholz will be elected as chancellor in parliament on Wednesday, ending the center-right Merkel’s 16-year tenure.

He will need the support of at least 369 lawmakers in the 736-seat lower house.

The three coalition partners have 416 seats between them, so he should be assured of a comfortable majority.

Hours before the Greens cleared the path for that vote, Scholz presented his party’s nominees for the Cabinet, completing his 17-member team.

The most closely watched appoint-

ment was that of health minister, as Germany struggles to bring down its highest coronavirus infection rates of the pandemic so far. Scholz chose Karl Lauterbach, an epidemiologist and media-savvy lawmaker who lacks executive experience but has been one of Germany’s most prominent voices urging caution and strict measures against Covid-19.

“The pandemic is far from over,” said Scholz. “Most people in this country certainly wanted the next health minister to be a specialist who can really do it well, and for him to be called Karl Lauterbach.”

German federal and state leaders last week announced tough new restrictions that largely target unvaccinated people. In a longer-term move, parliament will consider a general vaccine mandate.

Asked about the Christmas holidays, Lauterbach said “an important aim must be to bring the case numbers down so far that we can recommend travel without endangering people.”

Announcing his choices for the interior and defense portfolios, Scholz said Germany’s “security will be in the hands of strong women.”

Nancy Faeser, a lawyer who heads the party’s branch in the central state of Hesse, was an unexpected choice to become Germany’s first female interior minister, a post that includes oversight of federal police forces and the domestic intelligence agency. Faeser said a major focus will be fighting far-right extremism, which she called “the biggest threat” to the country.

Outgoing Justice Minister Chris-

tine Lambrecht will become the new defense minister.

The Greens and the Free Democrats already have named their ministers. Scholz’s vice chancellor will be Robert Habeck, who leads the Greens along with Baerbock. He will head an economy and climate ministry, a new combination.

The Greens’ five Cabinet members include Cem Ozdemir, who will become the first federal minister of Turkish origin six decades since guest workers began coming to Germany from Turkey after World War II. A long-time vegetarian, Ozdemir said that as agriculture minister he

had no plans to force a meat-free lifestyle on others and emphasized that cutting Germany’s greenhouse gas emissions should be the overarching goal for the next government.

“That’s what we’re going to be measured by,” he said.

The Greens, however, will have to overcome resistance from the Free Democrats, whose leader Christian Lindner will become finance minister and effectively the No. 3 official in the new government. Lindner’s party has a strong free market approach and successfully blocked putting a universal speed limit on German highways in the coalition agreement. AP

A8 Wednesday, December 8, 2021 • Editor: Angel R. Calso

Opinion BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

editorial

Soil management and food security

A

sian countries like the Philippines largely depend on their cropland for production and food security. Rice is the staple food in the region, which is home to a number of the world’s major rice exporters—India, Vietnam and Thailand. Asia produces about 90 percent of the world’s rice and is also a major producer of food items like wheat, corn, soybeans, and fruits.

Farmers depend on fertile land to produce about 95 percent of the food we eat, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization. Despite the fact that soil is the foundation of agriculture, the specialized agency of the United Nations said our soils are at risk.

FAO noted that over 833 million hectares of soils worldwide are already salt-affected.

Improper water management, including insufficient supply and poor quality drainage systems, are contributing to excessive soil salinization, FAO said. Soil salinization refers to excessive levels of salt in the soil, which can inhibit plant growth and even become toxic to life. It can occur naturally, for example in deserts due to lack of water and intense evaporation, or as a consequence of human activity.

FAO recently launched its “Global Soil Laboratory Assessment Report” that highlighted the challenges in generating reliable soil data.

A joint effort by 241 laboratories in 142 countries, it is led by FAO’s Global Soil Partnership and its Global Soil Laboratory Network composed of more than 760 laboratories worldwide. The report revealed that 55 percent of countries surveyed lacked adequate analytical capacities, including human resources, harmonization procedures and equipment.

The Philippines is one of the countries that have no sufficient soil laboratory services to cover the national demand in soil analysis. While staff members of local laboratories providing soil analysis have a university degree, they are “rarely or not sufficiently trained,” according to the report.

The country hopes to remedy this via the P523.57-million national soil health program, which was approved by the President in June (See, “Govt to hike crops production via P523.57-million soil health program,” in the BusinessMirror, June 10, 2021).

The four major components of NSHP are: institutionalization of national soil monitoring and rejuvenation program; establish mobile soils laboratory to monitor soil health; strengthening partnerships with relevant agencies and organizations to sustain food security; and improving soil analysis for macro- and micro-nutrients, and the development of manuals on the use of physical and biological parameters as indicators of soil health.

The chief aims of NSHP are the adoption of a national soil database and monitoring system to rejuvenate degraded soils, acquisition of equipment, upgrade of laboratories and training of technical staff.

Establishing a national database will allow policymakers to craft suitable interventions that would prevent soil degradation and ensure sustainable soil management.

FAO warned that inaction in maintaining and restoring soil health could threaten food security. The next set of officials must not abandon NSHP as this will have serious consequences for the country’s food production. Fortifying soils—the foundation of agriculture— is crucial as this would enable the sector to produce enough food to adequately feed the nation.

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The tooth shall set you free Dennis Gorecho

Kuwentong Peyups

‘T

he tooth shall set you free” is a variation of the biblical quote “The truth will set you free” that became the mantra of senatorial candidate Atty. Chel Diokno.

“Vēritās vōs līberābit” in Latin, it is a statement that derives from verse John 8:32 where Jesus Christ addresses a group of Jews who believed in him. The truth is meant to represent Christianity, God or Jesus that will set you free from worldly impediments such as sin, misery, or ignorance.

Diokno became popular because of his teeth. Every time pressing issues arise, Duterte and his followers throw ad hominem attacks against him by criticizing his teeth.

President Duterte insulted Diokno for for his teeth after he accused the human rights lawyer of resorting to black propaganda amid the government’s fight against the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Kaya hindi ka nanalo kasi kalaki ng ngipin mo. Magsalita kalahati ng panga mo lumalabas.” (You did not win because your teeth are big. Whenever you speak, half of your mouth shows).

But Diokno embraced it by saying that dapat may ngipin ang batas (the law must have teeth) as part of his

advocacy for a better judicial system.

After earning a degree in Philosophy at the UP Diliman, he studied at the UP College of Law for a year until 1983 and then went to Northern Illinois University (NIU) where he graduated Juris Doctor, magna cum laude and passed the Illinois Bar. He came back to the Philippines where he passed the 1988 Bar Examinations.

He was the founding dean of the De La Salle University College of Law. As part of his platform, Diokno said that the justice system should be reformed to ensure that the rights of every individual are protected and to promote social justice.

Diokno pointed out that although the Supreme Court has released circulars to speed up the justice system, the problem in its implementation is primarily attributable to the lack of prosecutors and judges to handle the cases.

He also noted that certainty of punishment and speedy and efficient disposition of justice are key to stop corruption and criminality.

I had the chance to be trained on alternative lawyering as a student volunteer of Diokno’s Free Legal Assistance Group (FLAG), which is a nationwide organization of lawyers who provide free legal aid to victims of abuse and indigent Filipinos that could not afford to avail themselves of legal services.

FLAG was founded in 1974

by Senators Jose Diokno, Lorenzo Tañada and Joker Arroyo during the martial law era under former President Ferdinand Marcos.

I was then a member of the UP Paralegal Volunteers’ Organization, which is devoted to the formation of law students equipped with the necessary skills to empower communities and basic sectors through paralegal training education.

His father, former Senator Jose “Pepe” Diokno once said “a lawyer must work in freedom; and there is no freedom when conformity is extracted by fear, and criticism silenced by force.”

Passing the bar is not enough.

Ultimately, being a good lawyer is a different thing.

There will be those who will join the law offices for private practice while others will go to government, judiciary, politics or the academe.

And there’s alternative lawyering.

It is a legal practice either individually or through legal resource organizations that work with the poor and marginalized groups, identities and communities towards their empowerment, greater access to justice, and building peace.

Alternative lawyers do often take on careers outside of the mainstream, but what differentiates their work is their commitment to a different route to, and conception of, justice.

Many alternative lawyers are guided by the words of former President Ramon Magsaysay: “Those who have less in life should have more in law.”

The poor who have fewer resources in relation to the rich will often have to bank on the law to safeguard their rights.

In building a more accessible, inclusive and dynamic justice system, all remedies allowed by law should be completely exhausted for their protection. The semblance of being given “more” in law is imperative to equip them the chance of equality which they do not enjoy.

Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela are seasoned lawyers among others who passed their whole life in pursuit of emancipation of the human beings.

Lawyers, as professionals, are expected to uphold the ethical and moral values that are said to be essential to the fabric that holds society together.

Let us hope that Chel’s mantra “The tooth shall set you free” reverberates in the legislative halls.

Peyups is the moniker of University of the Philippines. Atty. Dennis R. Gorecho heads the seafarers’ division of the Sapalo Velez Bundang Bulilan law offices. For comments, e-mail info@sapalovelez.com, or call 0917-5025808 or 0908-8665786.

Biden to warn Putin of economic pain if he invades Ukraine

By Aamer Madhani & Dasha Litvinova | Associated Press

W

ASHINGTON—President Joe Biden is ready to warn Vladimir Putin during a video call Tuesday that Russia will face economy-jarring sanctions if it invades neighboring Ukraine as the US president seeks a diplomatic solution to deal with the tens of thousands of Russian troops massed near the Ukraine border.

Biden aims to make clear that his administration stands ready to take actions against the Kremlin that would exact “a very real cost” on the Russian economy, according to White House officials. Putin, for his part, is expected to demand guarantees from Biden that the Nato military alliance will never expand to include Ukraine, which has long sought membership. That’s a nonstarter for the Americans and their Nato allies.

“We’ve consulted significantly with our allies and believe we have a path forward that would impose significant and severe harm on the Russian economy,” White House press secretary Jen Psaki said Monday in previewing the meeting. “You can call that a threat. You can call that a fact. You can call that prepa-

ration. You can call it whatever you want to call it.”

The leader-to-leader conversation—Biden speaking from the Situation Room, Putin from Moscow—is expected to be one of the toughest of Biden’s presidency and comes at a perilous time. US intelligence officials have determined that Russia has massed 70,000 troops near the Ukraine border and has made preparations for a possible invasion early next year.

The US has not determined whether Putin has made a final decision to invade. Still, Biden intends to make clear to the Russian leader that there will be a “very real cost” should Russia proceed with military action, according to a senior administration official who briefed reporters on the condition of anonymity.

Both the White House and the Kremlin sought in advance to lower expectations for the call.

Both sides said they didn’t expect any breakthroughs on Ukraine or the other issues up for discussion, but that just the conversation itself will be progress.

Biden was vice president in 2014 when Russian troops marched into the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea and annexed the territory from Ukraine. Aides say the Crimea episode—one of the darker moments for former President Barack Obama on the international stage—looms large as Biden looks at the current smoldering crisis.

The eastward expansion of Nato has from the start been a bone of contention not just with Moscow but also in Washington. In 1996, when President Bill Clinton’s national security team debated the timing of membership invitations to former Soviet allies Poland, Hungary and the Czech Republic, Defense Secretary William Perry urged delay in order to keep Russian relations on track. Perry wrote in his memoir that

when he lost the internal debate he considered resigning.

Poland, Hungary and the Czech Republic were formally invited in 1997 and joined in 1999. They were followed in 2004 by Bulgaria, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia and the former Soviet states of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. Since then, Albania, Croatia, Montenegro and North Macedonia have joined, bringing NATO’s total to 30 nations.

A key principle of the Nato alliance is that membership is open to any qualifying country. And no outsider has membership veto power.

While there’s little prospect that Ukraine would be invited into the alliance anytime soon, the US and its allies won’t rule it out.

In Washington, Republicans are framing this moment as a key test of Biden’s leadership on the global stage.

Biden vowed as a candidate to reassert American leadership after President Donald Trump’s emphasis on an “America first” foreign policy.

But Biden has faced fierce criticism from Republicans who say he’s been ineffective in slowing Iran’s march toward becoming a nuclear power See “Biden,” A9

Opinion BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

US plans diplomatic boycott of Beijing Winter Olympics

By Aamer Madhani And Alexandra Jaffe | Associated Press

W

ASHINGTON—The US will stage a diplomatic boycott of the upcoming Winter Olympics in Beijing to protest Chinese human rights abuses, the White House confirmed Monday, a move that China has vowed to greet with “firm countermeasures.”

White House press secretary Jen Psaki said US athletes will continue to compete and will “have our full support,” but added “we will not be contributing to the fanfare of the games.”

“US diplomatic or official representation would treat these games as business as usual in the face of the PRC’s egregious human rights abuses and atrocities in Xinjiang, and we simply can’t do that,” Psaki told reporters during Monday’s briefing.

“We have a fundamental commitment to promoting human rights.

And we feel strongly in our position and we will continue to take actions to advance human rights in China and beyond,” Psaki added.

The announcement came as Biden prepares to host a White House Summit for Democracy, a virtual gathering of leaders and civil society experts from more than 100 countries that is set to take place Thursday and Friday. The administration has said Biden intends to use the meeting “to announce both individual and collective commitments, reforms, and initiatives to defend democracy and human rights at home and abroad.”

Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Robert Menendez, D-N.J., called such a diplomatic boycott “a necessary step to demonstrate our unwavering commitment to human rights in the face of the Chinese government’s unconscionable abuses.”

He called on “other allies and partners that share our values to join with the United States in this diplomatic boycott.”

Sen. Tom Cotton, an Arkansas Republican, however, said the diplomatic boycott amounted to a “half measure.” American officials, including Biden, have criticized Beijing for human rights abuses against Uyghurs in northwest Xinjiang province, suppression of democratic protests in Hong Kong, military aggression against the self-ruled island of Taiwan and more. President Donald Trump’s administration in its final days declared the abuses in northwest China “genocide.”

“The United States should fully boycott the Genocide Games in Beijing,” Cotton said. “American businesses should not financially support the Chinese Communist Party and we must not expose Team USA to the dangers of a repugnant authoritarian regime that disappears its own athletes.”

Cotton appeared to be referring to former Grand Slam doubles champion Peng Shuai, who dropped from sight after publicly accusing a former top Communist Party official of sexual assault. Concerns over her safety prompted the Women’s Tennis Association to suspend events in China and provided added fuel to opponents of China’s hosting of the games.

Psa k i wou ld not comment whether Biden weighed pulling athletes from the games—many of whom have been training for years for the moment to compete on the global stage. In 1980, in the midst of the Cold War, Jimmy Carter kept US athletes home from the 1980 Summer Olympics in Moscow to protest the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan.

“I don’t think that we felt it was the right step to penalize athletes who have been training and preparing for this moment, and we felt that we could send a clear message by not sending an official US delegation,” Psaki said.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian accused US politicians of grandstanding over the

The diplomatic boycott comes as the US attempts to stabilize turbulent relations with Beijing, even as it maintains a tough approach toward trade and conflicts over China’s actions on Taiwan, human rights, Hong Kong and the South China Sea. CNN was first to report that an announcement was expected this week. issue of not sending dignitaries to attend events that China hopes will showcase its economic development and technological prowess.

Speaking to reporters at a daily briefing, Zhao said such a move would be an “outright political provocation,” but gave no details on how China might retaliate.

Human rights advocates and lawmakers in the US who support a boycott say it is a necessary step. They cite China’s poor record on human rights as justification, saying China is using the games to whitewash its ill treatment of civil rights activists, political dissidents and ethnic minorities.

“Without being invited, American politicians keep hyping the so-called diplomatic boycott of the Beijing Winter Olympics, which is purely wishful thinking and grandstanding,” Zhao told reporters at a daily briefing. “If the US side is bent on going its own way, China will take firm countermeasures.”

The International Olympic Committee in a statement called the decision to keep dignitaries away from the game a “political decision for each government” that it “fully respects.”

“At the same time, this announcement also makes it clear that the Olympic Games and the participation of the athletes are beyond politics and we welcome this,” the IOC statement said.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who had been advocating for a diplomatic boycott for months, applauded Biden for taking the step. Still, she said the IOC “allowing a country notorious for its appalling human rights record to host the Olympics makes a mockery of the Olympic Charter, which states that the Games should seek to foster ‘respect for universal and fundamental ethical principles’.”

The dispatching of high-level delegations to each Olympics has long been a tradition among the US and other leading nations. Then-President George W. Bush attended the opening of the 2008 Beijing Olympic Summer Games. First lady Jill Biden led the American contingent to the Summer Olympics in Tokyo this year and second gentleman Doug Emhoff led a delegation to the Paralympic Games.

The diplomatic boycott comes as the US attempts to stabilize turbulent relations with Beijing, even as it maintains a tough approach toward trade and conflicts over China’s actions on Taiwan, human rights, Hong Kong and the South China Sea. CNN was first to report that an announcement was expected this week.

Beijing has mounted a stiff response to all US criticisms, denouncing them as interference in its internal affairs and slapping visa bans on American politicians it regards as anti-China.

It wasn’t clear whom the . might have sent to Beijing for the games and Zhao’s comments appeared to indicate that China has not extended any invitations.

Australia, whose ties with China have nosedived over a range of disputes, has also raised the possibility of a diplomatic boycott.

Wednesday, December 8, 2021 A9

Desperation drives thousands of Afghans across borders

By Lee Keath And Mstyslav Chernov | Associated Press

H

ERAT, Afghanistan—Over the course of an hour on a recent night, the bus waiting in the Herat station filled with passengers. Mostly young men, they had no luggage, just the clothes on their backs, maybe a bag with some bread and water for the long road ahead of them.

That road is leading them to Iran.

Every day, multiple buses rumble out of Afghanistan’s western city of Herat, carrying hundreds of people to the border. There they disembark, connect with their smugglers and trek for days, sometimes crammed into pickup trucks bumping through wastelands, sometimes on foot through treacherous mountains in the darkness, eluding guards and thieves.

Once in Iran, most will stay there to look for work. But a few hope to go farther.

“We’re going to get to Europe,” said Haroun, a 20-year-old sitting in the bus next to his friend Fuad. Back in their village there is no work. “We have no choice, the economy here is a wreck. Even if it means our death on the way, we accept that.”

Afghans are streaming across the border into Iran in accelerating numbers, driven by desperation. Since the Taliban takeover in mid-August, Afghanistan’s economic collapse has accelerated, robbing millions of work and leaving them unable to feed their families. In the past three months, more than 300,000 people have crossed illegally into Iran, according to the Norwegian Refugee Council, and more are coming at the rate of 4,000 to 5,000 a day.

The European Union is now bracing for a potential swell in Afghans trying to reach its shores at a time when EU nations are determined to lock down against migrants in general.

So far, a post-Taliban surge of Afghan migrants to Europe hasn’t materialized. Afghan entries into the EU have “remained mostly stable,” according to an EU weekly migration report from Nov. 21. The report noted that some Afghans who arrived in Italy from Turkey in November told authorities they had fled their country after the Taliban takeover.

But a significant portion of migrants likely intend to stay in Iran, which is struggling to shut its doors.

It already hosts more than 3 million Afghans who fled their homeland during the past decades of turmoil.

Iran is stepping up deportations, sending 20,000 or 30,000 Afghans back every week. This year, Iran deported more than 1.1 million Afghans as of November 21—30 percent higher than the total in all of 2020, according to the International Organization for Migration.

Those deported often try again, over and over.

In Afghanistan, the exodus has emptied some villages of their men.

In Jar-e Sawz, a village north of Herat visited by The Associated Press, an elderly man was the only male left after all the younger men left.

One smuggler in Herat—a woman involved in the business for two decades—said that before the Taliban takeover, she was transporting 50 or 60 people a week into Iran, almost all single men. Since the August takeover, she moves around 300 people a week, including women and children.

“The country is destroyed so people have to leave,” she said, speaking on condition she not be named because of her work. “I feel like I’m doing the right thing. If some poor person asks me, I can’t refuse them.

I ask God to help me help them.”

She charges the equivalent of almost $400 per person, but only about $16 up front, with the rest paid after the migrant finds work. The pay-later system is common in Herat, a sign that there are so many migrants, smugglers can accept some risk that some will be unable to pay. Along the way, smugglers pass out bribes to Taliban, Pakistani and Iranian border guards to turn a blind eye, she said.

Everyone going gives the same reason.

“There is nothing here. There is no work and our families are hungry,” said Naib, a 20-year-old who was pausing with a group of migrants one night in a desolate area within sight of the Iranian border outside Herat.

“We go crawling if we have to. There is no other choice.”

Afghanistan was already one of the poorest countries in the world before the Taliban takeover, and the economy has deteriorated the past year, worsened by the coronavirus pandemic and a punishing drought since late 2020.

When the Taliban came to power on Aug. 15, the main artery keeping Afghanistan’s economy alive—international donor funds—was severed. With the Taliban government unable to pay salaries, hundreds of thousands of state employees found themselves with no livelihoods. With funding for projects gone, many jobs vanished across the labor market.

Farid Ahmed, a 22-year-old in Herat, used to go to a main square each day to be hired by building contractors for a day’s work. Previously,

he found work most days. “Now we wait all day and no one comes to hire us,” he said.

So last month, he took his wife and their two young daughters — ages 8 months and 2 years — across the border. From a relative already there, he heard that a Tehran weaving factory had jobs for him and his wife.

The crossing was a nightmare, he said. They had to walk for three hours in the darkness with several hundred other people across the border. In the cold and darkness, his daughters were crying. Once in Iran, they were almost immediately caught by police and deported.

Back home, nothing has changed.

He goes to the square every day but finds no work, he said. So he will try taking his family again. “After winter,” he said. “It’s too cold now for the children to cross.”

Herat, Afghanistan’s third largest city, is a main hub for Afghans from other parts of the country making their way to Iran.

The city is only about an hour’s drive from the Iranian border, but the frontier is too heavily patrolled here. Instead, migrants embark on a 300-mile (480-kilometer) trip south to Nimrooz, a remote region of deserts and mountains that is Afghanistan’s most sparsely populated province. Here, the migrants cross into a corner of Pakistan, from where they can more easily slip into Iran.

It’s an arduous journey. Reza Rezaie, a Herat resident, made the trip with his 17-year-old son. The most harrowing moment comes at the Iranian-Pakistani border, where migrants must ascend and then descend Moshkelghar, literally “Difficult Mountain,” on narrow trails along steep drop-offs. Associated Press

writers Abdul Qahar Afghan and Omid Haqqjou contributed to this report

China says US diplomatic boycott violates Olympic spirit

B

EIJING—China on Tuesday accused the United States of violating the Olympic spirit by announcing an American diplomatic boycott of February’s Beijing Winter Games, amid an increasingly bitter feud over the Biden administration’s decision not to send officials over human rights concerns.

The US is attempting to interfere with the Beijing Winter Olympics “out of ideological prejudice and based on lies and rumors,” Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian told reporters at a daily briefing.

The boycott “seriously violates the principle of political neutrality of sports established by the Olympic Charter and runs counter to the Olympic motto ‘more united,’” Zhao said.

As he did the previous day, Zhao vowed that China would respond with “resolute countermeasures” but offered no details.

“The US will pay a price for its practices. You may stay tuned for follow-ups,” Zhao said.

His comments came amid a barrage of Chinese criticism of the announcement by the Biden administration on Monday.

White House press secretary Jen

Biden. . .

continued from A10

and that the Biden administration has done too little to counter autocratic leaders like China’s Xi Jinping, Iran’s Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and Putin.

“Fellow authoritarians in Beijing and Tehran will be watching how the free world responds,” said Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell.

“And President Biden has an opportunity to set the tone when he speaks with Putin.”

Trump, who showed unusual deference to Putin during his presidency, said in a Newsmax interview on Monday that the Biden-Putin conversation would not be a “fair match,” describing it as tantamount to the six-time Super Bowl champion New England Patriots facing a high

Psaki told reporters on Monday that the administration will fully support US athletes competing at the games but won’t dispatch US diplomats or officials to attend.

Psaki said the US has a “fundamental commitment to promoting human rights” and that the US “will not be contributing to the fanfare of the games.” The diplomatic boycott comes as the US attempts to stabilize turbulent relations with Beijing, even as it maintains a tough approach toward trade and conflicts over China’s actions on Taiwan, Hong Kong, the South China Sea and the treatment of ethnic minorities, particularly Muslim Uyghurs.

Beijing has counterattacked against US criticisms and punitive sanctions, denouncing them as interference in its internal affairs and slapping visa bans on American politicians it regards as anti-China.

Zhao called on the US to “stop politicizing sports” and what he said were actions undermining the Beijing Winter Olympics, “otherwise it will undermine the dialogue and cooperation between the two countries in a series of important areas and international issues.”

The Chinese Embassy in Wash-

ington tweeted that politicians calling for a boycott are “doing so for their own political interests and posturing.”

“In fact, no one would care about whether these people come or not, and it has no impact whatsoever on the #Beijing2022 to be successfully held,” the embassy said.

China’s mission to the United Nations called the boycott a “selfdirected political farce.”

“The US just wants to politicize sports, create divisions and provoke confrontation,” it said.

Even the ruling Communist Party’s notoriously opaque Central Commission for Discipline Inspection issued a response in the form of a lengthy screed on its website entitled “The Spirit of the Olympic Charter Cannot be Tarnished.”

“Some Western anti-China politicians” have shown a “defensive Cold War mentality aimed at politicizing sport,” the article said, calling that a “clear violation of the Olympic spirit and a challenge to all people who love the Olympic movement.”

It wasn’t clear what officials Washington might have sent, and Zhao on Monday said no invitation had been extended by China.

Other major countries have yet to say if they will follow the US lead. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Tuesday said Japan would make its own decision “from the perspective of national interests, taking into consideration the significance of the Olympic Games and the significance of Japan’s diplomacy. This is the basic attitude of our country.”

Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno said it remained unclear what the diplomatic boycott means and that a decision on officials attending would be made “at an appropriate time.”

“In any case, Japan hopes that the Beijing Winter Games will be held as a celebration of peace in line with the principles of the Olympic and Paralympic Games,” Matsuno said.

The dispatching of high-level delegations to each Olympics has long been a tradition among the US and other leading nations. Then-President George W. Bush attended the opening of the 2008 Beijing Olympic Summer Games. First lady Jill Biden led the American contingent to the Summer Olympics in Tokyo this year and second gentleman Doug Emhoff led a delegation to the Paralympic Games. AP

school football team.

Ahead of the Putin call, Biden on Monday spoke with leaders of the United Kingdom, France, Germany and Italy to coordinate messaging and potential sanctions.

The White House said in a statement that the leaders called on Russia to “de-escalate tensions” and agreed that diplomacy “is the only way forward to resolve the conflict.”

Ahead of the Biden-Putin faceoff, Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Zelenskyy wrote on Twitter that he and Blinken “agreed to continue joint & concerted action” and expressed his gratitude for the US and allies providing “continued support of our sovereignty & territorial integrity.” Biden himself is expected to speak with Zelenskyy later this week.

State Department spokesman

Ned Price said that Blinken “reiterated the United States’ unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity in the face of Russian aggression.”

The Kremlin has made clear that Putin planned to seek binding guarantees from Biden precluding Nato’s expansion to Ukraine. Biden and aides have indicated no such guarantee is likely, with the president himself saying he “won’t accept anyone’s red line.”

Psaki stressed “Nato member countries decide who is a member of Nato, not Russia. And that is how the process has always been and how it will proceed.”

Still, Putin sees this as a moment to readjust the power dynamic of the US-Russia relationship.

“It is about fundamental principles established 30 years ago for the relations between Russia and

the West,” said Fyodor Lukyanov, a leading Moscow-based foreign policy expert. “Russia demands to revise these principles, the West says there’s no grounds for that. So, it’s impossible to come to an agreement just like that.”

Beyond Ukraine, there are plenty of other thorny issues on the table as well, including cyberattacks and human rights. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said US-Russian relations are overall in “a rather dire state.”

Both the White House and the Kremlin sought in advance to lower expectations for the call. Both sides said they didn’t expect any breakthroughs on Ukraine or the other issues up for discussion, but that just the conversation itself will be progress. Litvinova reported from Moscow.

Associated Press writers Robert Burns and Darlene Superville contributed reporting.

A10 Wednesday, December 8, 2021

ILOCANO GROUP FILES ‘DQ’ CASE VS. MARCOS

C

RACKS in the so-called “Solid North” surfaced on Tuesday after a group of Ilocanos filed a petition before the Commission on Elections seeking the disqualification of presidential aspirant Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. Marcos is known for having considerable support in the Ilocos region, where his family is based.

However, several members of the Pudno Nga Ilokano, who are also Martial Law victims, declared their opposition to Marcos’s presidential aspiration, citing the former lawmaker’s conviction by a Quezon City court for violating the National Internal Revenue Code, which they deemed a crime involving “moral turpitude.”

Perpetual disqualification

THE petitions stressed the sentence imposed perpetual special disqualification from the right of suffrage as well as holding public office.

“Herein Petitioners who are tax-paying Filipino citizens and registered voters humbly beg the kind indulgence of this Honorable Commission and most respectfully request that it exercise its original jurisdiction to disqualify Respondent Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ R. Marcos Jr. from running for any elective position in obeisance to this Honorable Commission’s solemn constitutional duty to apply the law without fear or favor,” the petitioners said.

The petitioners include Crisanto Ducusin Palabay, Mario Flores Ben, Danilo Austria Consumido, Gil Fernando Derilo, and Nomer Calulot Kuan, all members of the Pudno nga Ilokano.

Also a signatory to the petition

are Margarita Salonga Salandanan, a member of the steering committee of the Defense of Human Rights Movement, private individuals, including Raoul Hafalla Tividad, and Nida Mallare Gatchallan.

They are represented by former Comelec chairman Christian S. Monsod in the case.

Pending cases

TO note, Marcos is also facing a similar disqualification case file by Bonifacio Ilagan’s group, Akbayan, and Abubakar M. Mangelen.

He also has two separate petitions seeking the cancellation of his certificate of candidacy, which were filed by Christian Buenafe and others and Tiburcio Marcos.

Last, Danilo Lihaylihay also filed a petition for Comelec to declare Marcos as a nuisance candidate. Such cases are still pending in the Comelec.

‘Let the people decide’

THE camp of Marcos lamented the increasing number of “nuisance cases” filed against the presidential aspirant and are being addressed by his legal team.

In a statement on Tuesday, Marcos lawyer Victor D. Rodriguez said such petitions will just prevent the public from freely choosing their leaders.

“While we maintain that these petitions are nothing but nuisance cases, we urge those who are behind these pathetic stunts to please respect the Filipino people and their democratic right to decide for themselves and their collective future,” Rodriguez said.

“Elections are won and settled on election day and not through the filing of nuisance petitions,” he added. Samuel P. Medenilla

Foreign chambers say IPAs need leeway in tax perks T

By Tyrone Jasper C. Piad @Tyronepiad

HE Fiscal Incentives Review Board (FIRB) is being urged to provide investment promotion agencies (IPAs) more authority in granting tax incentives by increasing the capital threshold for projects requiring FIRB approval.

Officials of foreign chambers said at a virtual briefing on Tuesday that IPAs like the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (Peza) need to have more discretion when it comes to approving the investment.

As such, this calls for another look at the current version of the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (CREATE) Act. “We wanted a much larger threshold for the FIRB,” American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines Senior Adviser John D. Forbes said, as this will facilitate “speedy approval” of the application.

The implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the tax reform measure gives FIRB the power to

grant tax incentives. If the capital is P1 billion or below, the concerned IPA has the authority to do so.

For investments above P1 billion, the FIRB shall decide on the investment application upon the recommendation of the IPA. This is seen to pose problems with certain big-ticket investments, like those of the electronic and semiconductor industry, as it could prolong the approval process.

“Peza, they have been able to do this extremely well and you didn’t need another bureaucratic level above that,” Forbes said.

As such, Australian-New Zealand Chamber of Commerce President Daniel Alexander said that “any change to Peza or granting

them additional power that will help them to attract investment can be seen as a positive.”

“It is remarkable how resilient foreign direct investments have been. Clearly, Peza is an enabler that should only be strengthened and not weakened,” European Chambers of Commerce of the Philippines President Lars Wittig added.

Regional operating HQs

MEANWHILE, Philippine Association of Multinational Companies Regional Headquarters, Inc. (Pamuri) Executive Director Celeste Ilagan called for the inclusion of the regional operating headquarters (ROHQ) activities in the Strategic Investment Priority Plan (SIPP).

This, as she revealed her worries about the transition to the higher 25-percent corporate income tax next year from the current preferential tax rate of 10 percent.

“I don’t know if an amendment of CREATE will be able to cure that.

But we at least would like to see that activities like ROHQ can continue to register with an investment promotion agency, enjoying the incen-

tives that CREATE has put up for all investors,” she said.

SIPPt, which will provide fiscal and non-fiscal support for certain industries under CREATE, hopes to boost creation of high-skilled jobs, attract foreign investments, promote export diversification and ramp up developments in the countryside.

Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez identified earlier the following as critical industries under SIPP: electrical and electronics; chemical and pharmaceuticals; machinery and transport; agriculture and agribusiness; information technology-business process management; research and development; and artificial intelligence, automation, robotics, and digital technologies.

While there is no SIPP yet, the FIRB is adopting the 2020 Investment Priorities Plan for now.

This week, House Committee on Ways and Means Chairman Joey Salceda urged the Department of Trade and Industry to finalize the SIPP before March next year to “end the uncertainty” over foreign direct investments.

IATF to tackle easing of quarantine measures

By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla

A

S population immunity rises in major urban areas and infections decline nationwide, the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) is set to discuss this week the possible easing of quarantine measures.

In a virtual press briefing last Tuesday, Acting presidential spokesperson Karlo B. Nograles said the IATF would decide on the matter based on the assessment of the World Health Organization (WHO) on the potential public health risk posed by the Omicron variant of Covid-19.

WHO declared Omicron a variant of concern since initial data showed it is more infectious compared to other variants of SARSCoV-2, which causes Covid-19.

Another factor in IATF’s decision, Nograles said, is if it will be able to finalize the parameters for declaring an area under Alert Level 1.

Currently, the entire country is under Alert Level 2.

Nograles said both issues will be discussed at the next IATF meeting on Thursday.

Positive indicators

OCTA Research Team Associate Fr. Nicanor Austriaco noted, during the public address of President Duterte, that the number of Covid-19 cases in the country has been at its lowest in 20 months, with an average 500 cases per day.

This despite the highest mobility of the public in Metro Manila and other parts of the country in the past 20 months.

Austriaco attributed this to the

“substantial population immunity from natural infections and vaccinations in the urban areas.”

Nevertheless, he said government should prepare for the potential threat of the Omicron variant by expanding the capacity of healthcare facilities and ramping up inoculation, particularly for people around the country’s major ports.

“If the Filipinos around the airports are heavily vaccinated, then it doesn’t matter if there is an OFW [overseas Filipino workers] who returns home. Because even if this person is able to enter the community, the virus will struggle,” Austriaco said.

With these measures in place, he said it is possible for Filipinos to safely celebrate the Christmas season, when hundreds of Filipinos are expected to return home to join their loved ones.

Conservative policy

HE A LTH Secretar y Francisco Duque III, the IATF chairman, is cool to the possibility of further lowering the alert levels ahead of the holidays.

“The mobility [of the people] will increase during Christmas, and we know there is an impending threat from the Omicron variant so it is better to be conservative,” Duque said in an interview with PTV last Tuesday.

He also noted a considerable portion of the economy had already reopened when parts of the country were placed under Alert Level 2.

Some establishments, Duque said, were even allowed to operate with 80 percent of their capacity.

Business leaders are urging the government to place some parts of the country under Alert Level 1 to allow establishments at even greater capacity.

THE Palawan Ecolodge in Rizal encourages guests to experience local life. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Airbnb-funded poll: PHL tourists eye rural sites

By Ma. Stella F. Arnaldo

@akosistellaBM Special to the BusinessMirror

F

ILIPINOS plan to visit littleknown rural destinations during their vacations and hope to make positive contributions to the local economy.

These are among the latest findings in a new research and analysis by Economist Impact, titled. “Rebuilding tourism in Asia-Pacific: A more conscious traveler?” commissioned

by Airbnb, an online platform for leasing rooms and vacation homes, as well as a guide for tourism activities.

The research surveyed 4,500 people across nine Asia-Pacific countries including the Philippines.

For instance, over half of the Filipinos surveyed said they “plan to travel more frequently to rural destinations that are not currently popular with tourists,” while over 80 percent said, “It’s important that their travel creates a positive impact for locals.”

The research also found some 75 percent of Filipinos polled “value us-

ing travel as a way to meaningfully connect with communities and culture. This includes immersing themselves in local communities when they travel.” Airbnb failed to say how many exactly were the Filipino respondents and what survey method was used.

In a news statement, Pratima Singh, Senior Manager for Policy and Insights at Economist Impact said, “Following the pandemic, travelers are thinking more about the implications of their travel choices and decisions.” She added, “We’re seeing a trend where people are attempting to make their travel decisions more sustainable—economically, culturally and environmentally—and hoping to have a more positive impact by benefiting local communities.”

Support for sustainable tourism

OTHER findings include: ■ Over 70 percent of respondents said they were more inclined to contribute to the local economy, and will factor this into where they travel and how they spend as they are conscious that communities need to recover their economy.

■ 76 percent of respondents said they will be more conscious when it

comes to familiarizing themselves with what’s important to the communities they’re visiting and how they can make a contribution.

■ Over 60 percent were willing to build sustainable tourism practices into their holiday plans. They said they were most willing to forgo comforts and luxuries on a holiday if their actions can support sustainable tourism outcomes; pay a premium for an experience that supports sustainable tourism practices; and avoid destinations faced with sustainability challenges.

The research also found Filipinos were looking for new ways to travel and live, such that 60 percent plan to take work-cations or work remotely when they can. In the future, 62 percent said they were planning to travel to more domestic destinations, allocating more of their travel budget within the country.

For her part, Mich Goh, Airbnb’s Head of Public Policy for Southeast Asia, said, “In the wake of the disconnection and economic hardship brought by the pandemic, people are becoming increasingly thoughtful and deliberate about how they can use travel to make a positive contribution

to the communities they’re visiting.

They’re thinking deeply about how they can put their tourist dollars to best use and economically empower towns and rural communities that have struggled. And they’re looking to immerse themselves in these communities and forge meaningful connections, while also minimizing any unintended negative impacts.”

She added, “Airbnb is committed to partnering with governments and communities to find ways to harness the travel revolution to deliver tangible and lasting benefits for everyone. It’s critically important that both industry and government come together to make the most of this once-in-a-generation opportunity.”

According to the Department of Tourism, there were 4,201 Mabuhay Accommodations and 172 homestays registered with the agency as of April 2021. In May, Airbnb said it had 39,000 listings in the Philippines, which means less than 11 percent of Airbnbs are registered with the DOT. (See, “Less than 11% of total Airbnbs in the PHL are DOTaccredited,” in the BusinessMirror, May 30, 2021.)

BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

1 DRAGON VISA CONSULTANCY INC. U-606 6/f Itc Bldg., 337 Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati NGUYEN THI THUY TIEN Vietnamese Hr Officer 1.

Brief Job Description: Provide counseling and support on policies and procedures

Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing Vietnamese

24 INCH GAUGE CONSTRUCTION INC. L4 Blk. 4, Near Kay Buboy Bridge, San Dionisio, City Of Parañaque

JEK SEN Marketing Specialist 2.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for coordinating with other marketing and sales professionals to implement innovative campaigns for branding or product launches

OW CHIA LEE Marketing Specialist 3.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for coordinating with other marketing and sales professionals to implement innovative campaigns for branding or product launches

9.

Basic Qualification: Ability to work under pressure and motivation to succeed in a competitive environment; Should have a bachelor’s degree in journalism, marketing, communications or a related field; Good communication and interpersonal ski Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Ability to work under pressure and motivation to succeed in a competitive environment; Should have a bachelor’s degree in journalism, marketing, communications or a related field; Good communication and interpersonal skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

ACCENTURE, INC. 7f, Robinsons Cybergate Tower 1, Pioneer St, City Of Mandaluyong TEKIN, CENK App/cloud Support Manager

4.

Brief Job Description: Manage the delivery of clients assigned; own multiple client delivery and relationships; communicate delivery progress to key client and internal stakeholders from the operational level through executive leadership and provide detailed reviews of service disruptions, metrics, slas; experience with meeting client requirements, service level agreements; plan and forecast to anticipate client needs and minimize service disruptions

LEKA ABANDA, MADELEINE PAULETTE Client Financial Mgmt Analyst

5.

Brief Job Description: Provide value-added financial management, analysis, and advice to client engagement teams to maximize the profitability of engagements. collaborate with client and engagement executives, client group finance leads (or equivalent), and other finance operations executives to communicate the position and status of contract or account financial position. complete standard mtd/qtd financial and operational activities and processes. fulfill invoicing and collections, consistent with contractual requirements.

SEO, JOONYOUNG Client Financial Mgmt Specialist

6.

Brief Job Description: Requires analysis and solving moderately complex problems. may create new solutions, leveraging and, where needed, adapting existing methods and procedures. requires understanding of the strategic direction set by senior management as it relates to team goals. primary upward interaction is with direct supervisor. may interact with peers and/or management levels at a client and/or within accenture.

PATRO, SUDIPTA Technology Solution Planning Enablement Senior Analyst

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: provides professional advice and guidance in a specific domain of expertise.

Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

Basic Qualification: Graduate of any businessrelated course. has at least 2 years of finance and accounting related experience. has good communication skills. analytical skills.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: CA/CMA/ACCA/CIMA degree with 5-7 years of relevant experience. mba (ful time – finance only) with 6-8 years of relevant experience. project based accounting/ financial planning & analysis (fp&a) experience preferred. good knowledge of u.s. gaap and sarbanes-oxley. excellent communication (written & oral), interpersonal and organizational skills. executive presence. demonstrated leadership skills. strong analytical skills. experience performing budgeting and forecasting functions.

Brief Job Description: support the solution architect providing solution design and solution approval process. when require, provide costing, response development and operations support.

7.

Brief Job Description: Manage all aspects of service delivery operations across a major geography. Manage and own service quality, cost, and leadership of the people delivering services across numerous client deals, cross-operating group, and service group, within the geography, as well as contributing to solution development, growth, and sales.

UMA SHANKER Software Product Arch Senior Manager

8.

Brief Job Description: Experts for a product in its platform stack, component and deployment architecture. Defining/developing pocs and ensuring adherence to architecture and performance standards. ambassadors of emerging technology for the product space. define tech requirements and design software architecture. participate in detailed design and code reviews, review system performance, consumption issues, test plans and address/resolve product issues. involved in presales, sales and support activities

Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) or masters in accounting, finance, mis or related field; 10-15 years related finance experience; 10 - 15 years bpo experience working with external clients across multiple industries.

Salary Range: Php 500,000 and above

Basic Qualification: The candidate requires to have a mix of software product knowledge, functional expertise and industry focus they create the specifications and features of a product, the role requires analysis and design enhancements to the application and identify and define detailed product functional requirements and use cases. the candidate should be able assess current capabilities and market requirements and define the requirements, metrics and performance goals with other teams. they transition requirements and use cases to designers.

Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Key responsibilities: functional architect developing, designing, and maintaining technologies to enable smarter deceision making and generate significant business value work in challenging and dynamic environments, use versatility to create and support technology solutions that meet project requirements from analysis to implementation enable high end technology and cloud solutions for analytics projects and assets.

ALLIANTPRIME SERVICES INC. Unit No. Unit 2c Flr. No. 4f, One Ecom Center Building, Ocean Drive St., Moa Complex Subd., District 1, Barangay 076, Pasay City Basic Qualification: SONG, DAN Proficient in speaking, Mandarin Field Marketing Officer reading and writing in 10.

Mandarin Brief Job Description: Plan, organize and execute marketing and sales programs Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 AMAZING HOUSE, INC. G/f Oceanaire Residences, Cbpi, Sunrise Drive, Brgy. 076, Pasay City YIN, MIN Basic Qualification: Chinese Cuisine Specialist Expert in Menu planning.

11.

Brief Job Description: Salary Range: Assist Head Chef and training staff with regards to Chinese Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Menu ANOC99 CORPORATION 5/f To 10/f Ayala Malls Manila Bay Building D., Macapagal Blvd. Cor. Aseana Street, Tambo, City Of Parañaque Basic Qualification: VU QUANG KHANH Able to speak, read and Chinese Customer Service Write Chinese Language 12.

Brief Job Description: Salary Range: Managing incoming Calls and customer service inquiries Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 APCOS CORP. #778, C. Mohogany St., Octagon Village, Dela Paz, City Of Pasig PARK, YOUNGHO Vice President Basic Qualification: BS graduate Brief Job Description: 13.

Plan & executes all board of directors meetings & Salary Range: committee meetings including strategic planning, creating Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 agendas, inviting the appropriate attendees reserving the meeting space & covering all possible logistic issues.

BANK OF CHINA (HONG KONG) LIMITED - MANILA BRANCH G/f, 2/f, 28/f, West Retail The Finance Centreblock 55 Lot 1 & 2, 26th St. Cor 9th Ave. Bonifacio Global City, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig Basic Qualification: GAO, XUEYAN Proficient in both mandarin/ Subject Matter Expert For Operations, Project English and atleast 10 years Management Office operations experience in 14. china’s banking Brief Job Description: Maintain quality assurance standards for reporting Salary Range: business rules Php 90,000 - Php 149,999 BLOOMBERRY RESORTS AND HOTELS INC. Solaire Resort And Casino, 1 Asean Avenue, Entertainment City, Tambo, City Of Parañaque Basic Qualification: KIM, MINSEO Proven professional Host, Premium Services- Korea experience 15.

Brief Job Description: Salary Range: providing high quality services to gaming customers Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 C’EST LA VIE EVENT MANAGEMENT INC. 230, Narra Street, Marikina Heights, City Of Marikina Basic Qualification: Can Work as an independent consultant to provide marketing expertise to LE DIEU HUONG GIANG clients; Can research General Trade Marketing Specialist Consultant industries, markets, 16. demographics, trends, Brief Job Description: sales results, and other Responsible for developing and executing commercial data related to the client’s strategies. products or services.

YUE, MENGFANG General Trade Marketing Specialist Consultant 17.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for developing and executing commercial strategies.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can Work as an independent consultant to provide marketing expertise to clients; Can research industries, markets, demographics, trends, sales results, and other data related to the client’s products or services.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

No.

18.

Brief Job Description: Project management of fire protection system installation.

Basic Qualification: Site management operation: fire sprinkler, fire alarm and cctv systems.

21.

LI, XIYUAN Mandarin Construction Supervisor 19.

Brief Job Description: Oversee the construction of projects and monitor activities at worksites. Manage crews, ensure health and safety codes are observed, and that work is completed to schedule PENG, ZENGBIAO Mandarin Precision Welder Specialist

20.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for assembling pieces of metal together or repairing damage in metal components using heavy machinery that emits high heat, melting the metal into shape

Basic Qualification: With good oral and communication skills in english and mandarin language familiar in the field of construction works Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With good oral and communication skills in english and mandarin language familiar in the field of construction works Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Responsible for assembling pieces of metal together or repairing damage in metal components using heavy machinery that emits high heat, melting the metal into shape LI, XINAI Mandarin Purchasing Coordinator

22.

Brief Job Description: Evaluates suppliers based on things like cost, selection, service, distribution capabilities and availability CHEN, YAOZHONG Mandarin Safety Officer

23.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for planning, implementing and overseeing company’s employee safety at work, to ensure that the company is in compliance and adheres to Occupational health and safety guidelines.

WANG, GUANGZHOU Mandarin Site Supervisor

24.

Brief Job Description: Monitor the progress of construction projects and ensure compliance with construction safety regulations

YIN, JINGHAI Mandarin Site Supervisor 25.

Brief Job Description: Monitor the progress of construction projects and ensure compliance with construction safety regulations

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: With good oral and communication skills in English and mandarin language familiar in the field of construction works Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With good oral and communication skills in english and mandarin language familiar in the field of construction works Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With good oral and communication skills in English and mandarin language familiar in the field of construction works Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With good oral and communication skills in english and mandarin language familiar in the field of construction works Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With good oral and communication skills in english and mandarin language familiar in the field of construction works Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

CURRENTCORE SERVICES INC. Unit 2c, Flr. No. 4f, One Ecom Center Bldg. Ocean Drive St., Moa Complex Subd. Barangay 076, Pasay City Basic Qualification: NIE, XIANGYANG Proficient in speaking, Mandarin Field Marketing Officer reading and writing in 26.

Mandarin Brief Job Description: Provide valuable information about products and services Salary Range: to consumers Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: ZHOU, QUAN Proficient in speaking, Mandarin Field Marketing Officer reading and writing in 27.

Mandarin Brief Job Description: Provide valuable information about products and services Salary Range: to consumers Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: YU, KAI Proficient in speaking, Mandarin Site Technical Officer reading and writing in 28.

Mandarin Brief Job Description: Preparing and following general maintenance schedule Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 CX BUILDER’S CORPORATION 1106 Victoria Bldg., 429 U.n. Ave. 072, Barangay 666, Ermita, City Of Manila Basic Qualification: DU, YICHANG Can speak and write Chinese Site Technical Support Mandarin language 29.

Brief Job Description: Salary Range: Technical site support for the operation of equipment Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 DIGICHROM INC. Unit 2602 & 2603 26/f Pbcom Tower, 6795 Ayala Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati Basic Qualification: HUANG, TZU-CHUN Proficient in speaking, Mandarin Speaking Customer Service Representative reading and writing in 30.

Mandarin Brief Job Description: Manage incoming and outgoing call, chats and emails Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 DIGIVIRTUAL TECH CORPORATION 7/f Ba Lepanto Bldg., 8747 Paseo De Roxas, Bel-air, City Of Makati GAO, TIAN Basic Qualification: Mandarin Speaking Computer Support Specialist Excellent speaking, writing and reading in Chinese 31.

Brief Job Description: Investigate user problems and prepare reports for Salary Range: developers.

Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 LU, FENGMING Basic Qualification: Mandarin Speaking Computer Support Specialist Excellent speaking, writing and reading in Chinese 32.

Brief Job Description: Investigate user problems and prepare reports for Salary Range: developers.

Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 PAN, YUE Mandarin Speaking Computer Support Specialist 33.

Brief Job Description: Investigate user problems and prepare reports for developers.

QI, QIANG Mandarin Speaking Computer Support Specialist

34.

Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

CHN-PHL HUAIYUAN INTERNATIONAL CONSTRUCTION CORPORATION Unit A&b 20/f Rufino Pacific Tower, 6784 Ayala Avenue, San Lorenzo, City Of Makati

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION ZHAO, HAILONG Mandarin Precision Welder Specialist

CHITTICK FIRE & SECURITY CORPORATION 10/f Telecom Plaza, 316 Sen. Gil J. Puyat Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati HYER, RONALD EDWARD Consultant

A11

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

SAPRA, SUMIT Major Geography Sdo Director

Wednesday, December 8, 2021

Brief Job Description: Investigate user problems and prepare reports for developers.

WANG, CHANGLONG Mandarin Speaking Computer Support Specialist

35.

Brief Job Description: Investigate user problems and prepare reports for developers.

Basic Qualification: Excellent speaking, writing and reading in Chinese Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Excellent speaking, writing and reading in Chinese Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Excellent speaking, writing and reading in Chinese Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

EASTERN GOLD CORPORATION 503, Nueva St, , Binondo, City Of Manila

CHANG, YU Marketing And Sales Agent 36.

Brief Job Description: Researches and develops various marketing strategies for products and services and implements marketing plans and works to meet sales quotas

Basic Qualification: Can contributes information, ideas, and research to help develop marketing strategies; can help to detail, design, and implement marketing plans for each product or service being offered.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

A12

BusinessMirror

Wednesday, December 8, 2021

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

FANG, JIANJUN Marketing And Sales Agent 37.

Brief Job Description: researches and develops various marketing strategies for products and services and implements marketing plans and works to meet sales quotas

JIANG, DIANMING Marketing And Sales Agent 38.

Brief Job Description: Researches and develops various marketing strategies for products and services and implements marketing plans and works to meet sales quotas

JIANG, LIFAN Marketing And Sales Agent 39.

Brief Job Description: Researches and develops various marketing strategies for products and services and implements marketing plans and works to meet sales quotas

LI, BING Marketing And Sales Agent 40.

Brief Job Description: Researches and develops various marketing strategies for products and services and implements marketing plans and works to meet sales quotas

LI, KAI Marketing And Sales Agent 41.

Brief Job Description: Researches and develops various marketing strategies for products and services and implements marketing plans and works to meet sales quotas

LIU, HAO Marketing And Sales Agent 42.

Brief Job Description: Researches and develops various marketing strategies for products and services and implements marketing plans and works to meet sales quotas

NGUYEN THI HOAI Marketing And Sales Agent 43.

Brief Job Description: Researches and develops various marketing strategies for products and services and implements marketing plans and works to meet sales quotas

PENG, YUJIAN Marketing And Sales Agent 44.

Brief Job Description: researches and develops various marketing strategies for products and services and implements marketing plans and works to meet sales quotas

SUN, BIAO Marketing And Sales Agent 45.

Brief Job Description: researches and develops various marketing strategies for products and services and implements marketing plans and works to meet sales quotas

THAI MY QUYEN Marketing And Sales Agent 46.

Brief Job Description: Researches and develops various marketing strategies for products and services and implements marketing plans and works to meet sales quotas

WANG, YIWEI Marketing And Sales Agent 47.

Brief Job Description: Researches and develops various marketing strategies for products and services and implements marketing plans and works to meet sales quotas

ZHOU, XIUXIAN Marketing And Sales Agent 48.

Brief Job Description: researches and develops various marketing strategies for products and services and implements marketing plans and works to meet sales quotas

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: can contributes information, ideas, and research to help develop marketing strategies; can help to detail, design, and implement marketing plans for each product or service being offered.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can contributes information, ideas, and research to help develop marketing strategies; can help to detail, design, and implement marketing plans for each product or service being offered.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can contributes information, ideas, and research to help develop marketing strategies; can help to detail, design, and implement marketing plans for each product or service being offered.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can contributes information, ideas, and research to help develop marketing strategies; can help to detail, design, and implement marketing plans for each product or service being offered.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can contributes information, ideas, and research to help develop marketing strategies; can help to detail, design, and implement marketing plans for each product or service being offered.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can contributes information, ideas, and research to help develop marketing strategies; can help to detail, design, and implement marketing plans for each product or service being offered.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can contributes information, ideas, and research to help develop marketing strategies; can help to detail, design, and implement marketing plans for each product or service being offered.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can contributes information, ideas, and research to help develop marketing strategies; can help to detail, design, and implement marketing plans for each product or service being offered.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can contributes information, ideas, and research to help develop marketing strategies; can help to detail, design, and implement marketing plans for each product or service being offered.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can contributes information, ideas, and research to help develop marketing strategies; can help to detail, design, and implement marketing plans for each product or service being offered.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can contributes information, ideas, and research to help develop marketing strategies; can help to detail, design, and implement marketing plans for each product or service being offered.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: can contributes information, ideas, and research to help develop marketing strategies; can help to detail, design, and implement marketing plans for each product or service being offered.

No.

49.

Brief Job Description: Oversee and supervise all outport offices

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

LIU, HOULI Product Solution Manager For Regional Wi-fi & IP Network Construction 59.

WANG, XUELI Project Director For Fixed Network Last Mile Key Accounts 60.

51.

Brief Job Description: Overall responsibility of joining formalities, induction, HRIS management, attrition management, retention plan, employee relations, reward and recognition, performance management and compensation management, learning and development, government compliance

Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

Brief Job Description: 1. In charge with network operation process establishment and improvement to meet the local network requirements. 2. Develop trainings to operation team to understand operation procedures to improve the operation quality

Basic Qualification: 1. With 5-year overseas work experience as project director or department manager responsible for the business target design, achievement, and people management. 2.

Highly skilled in people and team management. 3. Has attended managed service sales & solution trainings.

Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

FIRSTSOURCE SOLUTIONS LIMITED 5/f Firstsource Building Plaza D, Northgate Cyberzone, Alabang, City Of Muntinlupa MIRZA, MOHAMMAD ZIAUL HAQ General Manager - Human Resources

Brief Job Description: 1. Organize training courses and data communication knowledge and skills for local employees. 2. Responsible for improving the understanding and design capabilities of the overall ip network architecture.

Basic Qualification: 1. Have a basic command of datacom solution design and datacom product features. 2. Ability to design architectures and select products based on customer requirements.

3. Must have a bachelor’s degree instrumental science and technology. 4. Highly proficient in chinese and english languages.

Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

FILFLY CONSTRUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT INC. #1295 G. Araneta Ave. Cor., N.s. Amoranto, Sto. Domingo 1, Quezon City WANG, BAOLI Basic Qualification: Administrative Staff Can do multi tasking across a range of responsibilities 50.

Brief Job Description: Provides administrative support to ensure efficient Salary Range: operation of office Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Preferably MBA units from an institute of reasonable repute; 6 to 10 years’ experience in an HR generalist role.; HR Process expertise

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

HUAWEI TECHNOLOGIES PHILS. INC. U-5302, 53/f Pbcom Tower, 6795 Ayala Ave., Cor., V.a. Rufino St., Bel-air, City Of Makati

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Proven professional experience

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

GATEWAYSOLUTIONS CORP. Unit 2306 Antel Global Corporate Center, Julia Vargas Ave., Ortigas Center, San Antonio, City Of Pasig Basic Qualification: Must be a College graduate; LI, XIAOWEI Can prepare product Customer Service Representative or service reports by collecting and analyzing Brief Job Description: customer information; Can A customer service representative supports customers contribute to team effort by 52. by providing helpful information, answering questions, accomplishing related results and responding to complaints, They’re the front line of as needed; Can manage large support for clients and customers and the help ensure amounts of incoming calls that customers are satisfied with products, services, and features.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Must be a College graduate; ZENG, WENJIN Can prepare product Customer Service Representative or service reports by collecting and analyzing Brief Job Description: customer information; Can A customer service representative supports customers 53. contribute to team effort by by providing helpful information, answering questions, accomplishing related results and responding to complaints, They’re the front line of as needed; Can manage large support for clients and customers and the help ensure amounts of incoming calls that customers are satisfied with products, services, and features.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Must be a College graduate; ZHOU, YU Can prepare product Customer Service Representative or service reports by collecting and analyzing Brief Job Description: customer information; Can A customer service representative supports customers 54. contribute to team effort by by providing helpful information, answering questions, accomplishing related results and responding to complaints, They’re the front line of as needed; Can manage large support for clients and customers and the help ensure amounts of incoming calls that customers are satisfied with products, services, and features.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 GRUNDFOS IS SUPPORT & OPERATIONS CENTRE PHILIPPINES INC. 25th & 26th Floors Robinsons Cyberscape Beta Ruby & Topaz Roads, Ortigas Ctr., San Antonio, City Of Pasig Basic Qualification: JANKOVIC, MARIJA • Bachelor’s/ Master’s Finance Team Lead, Travel & Expense degree from area of Finance or Accounting is preferred.

Brief Job Description: • Must have 5-6 years of • Develop plans to maintain an efficient, productive and relevant work experience harmonious work environment. in the field of of Finance• Select, lead, guide, evaluate and develop employees Travel and Expense work to ensure that the department achieves the business space. • Experienced in objectives. • Select the right people and keep them leadership and stakeholder trained and motivated to add value for Grundfos 55. management. • Must customers. • Secure right mix of talent. • Lead minor have people management Finance Team. • Support managers and/ or local units experience and has ability to with financial reporting and compliance task/ issues. relate with people. • Must • Secure timely and high quality transparent data to have good command in support decision making on all levels of Grundfos. • English communication, both Perform analytical tasks with some complexity to support verbal and written. managers in decision-making processes. • Prepare business cases and projects in close cooperation with Salary Range: business partners.

Php 90,000 - Php 149,999 Basic Qualification: BRKOVIC, DANILO • Bachelor’s/ Master’s Invoice Management Supervisor degree from area of Finance or Accounting is preferred.

Brief Job Description: • Must have 5-6 years of • Develop plans to maintain an efficient, productive and relevant work experience harmonious work environment. in the field of of Finance • Select, lead, guide, evaluate and develop employees and Invoice processing. • to ensure that the department achieves the business Experienced in leadership objectives. • Select the right people and keep them and stakeholder 56. trained and motivated to add value for Grundfos management. • Must customers. • Secure right mix of talent. • Lead minor have people management Finance Team. • Support managers and/ or local units experience and has ability to with financial reporting and compliance task/ issues. relate with people. • Must • Secure timely and high quality transparent data to have good command in support decision making on all levels of Grundfos. • English communication, both Perform analytical tasks with some complexity to support verbal and written. managers in decision-making processes. • Prepare business cases and projects in close cooperation with Salary Range: business partners.

Php 90,000 - Php 149,999 Basic Qualification: NAGY, BENCE Bachelor’s/ Master’s degree Payroll Manager from area of Finance or Accounting is preferred.

Brief Job Description: Must have 7+ years of 57.

Secure the required quantity and quality of resources for relevant work experience in the POC Team at all times in order to ensure desired level the field of of Finance and of operation efficiency. Lead, guide, evaluate and develop Invoice processing. a team of employees to ensure that the department archives the business objectives.

Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999 HAMMERTIME CONSTRUCTION INC. Unit 203-s3 2nd Flr., Fbr Arcade Bldg., #317 Katipunan Ave. Loyola Heights 3, Quezon City Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree with at NIE, GUXIANG least 3-5 years of working Mandarin Project Supervisor experience in the related 58. field; fluent in mandarin/ Brief Job Description: basic english Responsible for coordinating all labor needs for a given project Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

EVERGREEN SHIPPING AGENCY PHILIPPINES CORPORATION 6f Equitable Bank Tower, 8751 Paseo De Roxas, Bel-air, City Of Makati WU, KUANG-CHUNG a.k.a. WU, ANDREW Deputy Junior Vice President For Outport Operations

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

WANG, YI Project Director For Network Carrier Ethernet Network Project 61.

Brief Job Description: 1. Lead multi-projects to deliver business successfully to customer. 2. Track and improve profitability for each project. 3. Cultivate relationships with partners and customers to find new sources of revenue.

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Basic Qualification: 1. With at least 5 year overseas work experience as project director of product delivery & services. 2. With cross cultural communication and management skills. 3.

With people management experience in leading multiple teams.

Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

LOU, YINGYING Sales Manager For Public Network Wifi 6 & Philippines Network National Backbone 62.

Brief Job Description: 1. Responsible for opportunity management. 2. Update the project progress regularly and make forecasts. 3.

Regularly hold project analysis meetings and prepare minutes in a timely manner

XIONG, ZAN Senior Product Manager For Ip Core Network Contruction Project 63.

Brief Job Description: 1. Organize training courses and data communication knowledge and skills. 2. Focus on improving understanding and design capabilities of the overall ip network structure.

3. In charge with operation process planning and management of data communication products.

WANG, YINGLONG Smart Wearable Handsets And Audio Go-to-market Manager 64.

Brief Job Description: 1. Responsible for the ipms process and managing the consumer product go-to-market process. 2. Responsible for national macro-market analysis and support consumer behavior characteristics analysis.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: 1. Highly familiar with the enterprise business project operation process and system usage. 2. Have a good command of the basic oto/ mae/otc processes. 3. Must be have a bachelor’s degree in international business, with masteral degree an advantage.

Salary Range: Php 90,000 - Php 149,999 Basic Qualification: 1. With at least 5-year work experience as manager in charge with data communication ip network solution products. 2. With professional knowledge in the data communication field and able to communicate and discuss related issues with customers fluently. 3.

With technical skills in data communication network (ip) design; data center interconnection (dci) model design, technical document writing and translation.

4. Must have a bachelor’s degree in computer science and technology.

Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999 Basic Qualification: 1. With at least 2 year experience working in goto-market management of smartphones and wearable audio products. 2. Experience in product training of huawei handsets products. 3. Has the ability to provide project management to set and align target internally with team members. 4. Must have a bachelor’s degree in computer science and technology.

Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

INQUICK SERVICES INC. Unit 606 6/f Itc Bldg., 337 Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati WANG, XIAOLONG Mandarin Speaking Customer Service Representative 65.

Brief Job Description: Identify and assess customers needs to achieve satisfaction YANG, CAIHUA Mandarin Speaking Customer Service Representative

66.

Brief Job Description: Identify and assess customers needs to achieve satisfaction

INTEGRATED GLOBAL SERVICES, INC. PHILIPPINE BRANCH 1311, Batangas St., San Isidro, City Of Makati KATARNAWARE, ROHIT Technical Manager - Client Relations

Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing in mandarin Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing in mandarin Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Extensive knowledge in onsite technical and commercial client interactions in relation to HVTS and Cetek ceramic coating technologies

Brief Job Description: Manage On-site Technical and Commercial Client interactions in relation to proprietary High Velocity Thermal Spray (HVTS) and Cetek ceramic coating technologies and Ultrasonic Thickness Data-gathering for Salary Range: HVTS projects Php 150,000 - Php 499,999 ITECHNO SPECIALIST INC. 10/f Aseana I Bldg., Bradco Avenue Aseana Business Park, Tambo, City Of Parañaque HE, YIJUN Chinese IT Support Specialist Basic Qualification: A Chinese and Fluent in Brief Job Description: Chinese writing and speaking 68.

The Chinese IT Support Specialist (CITSS) is an integral Language member of the company infrastructure , Applications Support, and of the IT Division and is Responsible for Salary Range: providing quality IT Support of enterprise systems Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 throughout the Chinese clientele ZHOU, JUN Chinese IT Support Specialist Basic Qualification: A Chinese and Fluent in Brief Job Description: Chinese writing and speaking 69.

The Chinese IT Support Specialist (CITSS) is an integral Language member of the company infrastructure , Applications Support, and of the IT Division and is Responsible for Salary Range: providing quality IT Support of enterprise systems Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 throughout the Chinese clientele DUONG CONG HUE IT Support Specialist Basic Qualification: Can speak and read Brief Job Description: Cantonese, Mandarin and 70.

The IT Support Specialist (CITSS) is an integral member Fukien language of the company infrastructure, Application Support, and of the IT Division and is responsible for providing quality Salary Range: IT support of enterprise systems throughout the Chinese Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 clientele.

HOANG VAN CAO IT Support Specialist Basic Qualification: Can speak and read Brief Job Description: Cantonese, Mandarin and 71.

The IT Support Specialist (CITSS) is an integral member Fukien language of the company infrastructure, Application Support, and of the IT Division and is responsible for providing quality Salary Range: IT support of enterprise systems throughout the Chinese Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 clientele.

Basic Qualification: LAI THI DUYEN can speak and read IT Support Specialist cantonese, mandarin, and 72. fukien language Brief Job Description: Responsible for providing quality it support of enterprise Salary Range: systems throughout the chinese clientele.

Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 LUONG KIEN MINH IT Support Specialist Basic Qualification: Can speak and read Brief Job Description: Cantonese, Mandarin and 73.

The IT Support Specialist (CITSS) is an integral member Fukien language of the company infrastructure, Application Support, and of the IT Division and is responsible for providing quality Salary Range: IT support of enterprise systems throughout the Chinese Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 clientele.

NGUYEN DAT HUNG IT Support Specialist Basic Qualification: Can speak and read Brief Job Description: Cantonese, Mandarin and 74.

The IT Support Specialist (CITSS) is an integral member Fukien language of the company infrastructure, Application Support, and of the IT Division and is responsible for providing quality Salary Range: IT support of enterprise systems throughout the Chinese Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 clientele.

PHAM VAN THANG IT Support Specialist Basic Qualification: Can speak and read Brief Job Description: Cantonese, Mandarin and 75.

The IT Support Specialist (CITSS) is an integral member Fukien language of the company infrastructure, Application Support, and of the IT Division and is responsible for providing quality Salary Range: IT support of enterprise systems throughout the Chinese Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 clientele.

Basic Qualification: VU VAN DINH can speak and read IT Support Specialist cantonese, mandarin, and 76. fukien language Brief Job Description: responsible for providing quality it support of enterprise Salary Range: systems throughout the chinese clientele.

Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 67.

BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

J-K NETWORK RECRUITMENT SERVICES AND CONSULTANCY, INC. U 5 Qrst Crissant Plaza Bldg., 272 Commonwealth Ave. 3, Matandang Balara, Quezon City Basic Qualification: English (advance). Japanese OTA, MINORI Language (Written and Japanese Language Specialist Spoken). Native Japanese.

Graduate of any 4 year 77.

Brief Job Description: course. With or without Assessment for Filipino Japanese Speaking Applicants . experience in ESL. Willing to Responsible for the language assessment for Filipinos who work in an ESL company can speak Japanese Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999 J-NA ALLOUT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS CORP. 3/f Lipams Bldg., #48 President Avenue, Bf Homes, City Of Parañaque Basic Qualification: KIM, CHULWON Colleg graduate speaks Korean Customer Service Representative and write fluently (Korean 78.

English) Brief Job Description: Track industry trends in korean through blogs micro blogs Salary Range: and forums Php 60,000 - Php 89,999 JVD GLOBAL CONSULTANCY INC. L2 Ayala Circuit Mall, Circuit Makati, A.p. Reyes Ave., Carmona, City Of Makati Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months experience in the said MANOVATTANA, PHANTHIPHA field With good oral and Thai Customer Support communication skills, specifically English language 79.

Brief Job Description: Knowledgeable in basic Will be in-charge of helping the customers with complaints computer applications and and questions, give customers information about products softwares and services, take orders, and process returns.

No.

LAI, XIAOMEI Mandarin Marketing Specialist 94.

Salary Range: Php 90,000 - Php 149,999 MASIM OILS AND FAT INC. 136b, Armstrong Ave., Moonwalk, City Of Parañaque VYAS, AMIT SUSHIL General Manager 87.

Brief Job Description: Trade and Handling business activity on palm oil and coconut oil.

Basic Qualification: B. SC. (Physics) 16 years experience in palm oil trading.

95.

Brief Job Description: Committed to improving customer experience and operational efficiency WANG, MIN Mandarin Operations Specialist

96.

Brief Job Description: Committed to improving customer experience and operational efficiency QIU, ZONGNAN Mandarin Team Leader

97.

Brief Job Description: Leading the team with motivation and inspire to reach the goal and exceeding the team performances LIU, HUAN Mandarin Technical Support

98.

Brief Job Description: To troubleshoot, maintain and monitor the computer system YANG, XIANGMING Mandarin Technical Support

99.

Brief Job Description: To troubleshoot, maintain and monitor the computer system ZHANG, HUI Mandarin Technical Support

100.

Brief Job Description: To troubleshoot, maintain and monitor the computer system ZHOU, SIWEI Mandarin Technical Support

101.

Brief Job Description: To troubleshoot, maintain and monitor the computer system

102.

103.

104.

105.

106.

107.

108.

109.

110.

111.

112.

113.

114.

115.

HAN, BOLIN Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries LI, JINGJIU Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries LIU, TONGZHUANG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries LIU, WENCHANG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries LIU, XIAO Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries LIU, YAN Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries SONG, XIUJIN Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries SU, TINGTING Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries WANG, TAO Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries YANG, LI Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries YANG, SHUNYAO Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries ZHANG, GUOFEI Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries ZHANG, SHENG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries ZHOU, LILING Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries

MONDELEZ PHILIPPINES, INC. #8378, Dr. A Santos Ave., Bf Homes, City Of Parañaque LADHA, DEEPAK Accounting & External Reporting Lead Sea Brief Job Description: Manage all accounting and external reporting matters for a mid-size business unit, including ensuring accurate 116. and timely U.S. GAAP reporting and the timeliness and integrity of statutory financial reporting, balance sheet reconciliations and KPIs. Will also provide insights into balance sheet movements and cash flow and ensure account reconciliations, intercompany charges, fixed assets, and restructuring are signed off for the business unit.

NEW ORIENTAL CLUB88 CORPORATION 1331 Pearl Plaza Bldg., Quirino Ave., Tambo, City Of Parañaque

A13

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing in mandarin

No.

117.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing in mandarin Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing in mandarin Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing in mandarin Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing in mandarin Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing in mandarin Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing in mandarin Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing in mandarin

118.

119.

120.

121.

122.

123.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. 4th-11th Flr. Nexgen Tower, C4 Rd. Edsa Ext., Brgy. 076, Pasay City

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

MEGA-WEB TECHNOLOGIES INC. 6,7,8,9,10,11/f Met Live Bldg., Edsa Cor. Macapagal Blvd., Brgy. 076, Pasay City Basic Qualification: AN, SUNGBEOM Proficient in Speaking, Korean Speaking Customer Service Representative Reading and Writing in 88.

Korean Brief Job Description: Responsible for handling service support calls Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: KU, BON JUNG Proficient in Speaking, Reading Korean Speaking Customer Service Representative and Writing in Korean 89.

Brief Job Description: Salary Range: Responsible for handling service support calls Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: LEE, SEONHO Proficient in Speaking, Reading Korean Speaking Customer Service Representative and Writing in Korean 90.

Brief Job Description: Salary Range: Responsible for handling service support calls Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: GUAN, MING-SYUAN Proficient in Speaking, Mandarin Speaking Customer Relations Service Provider Reading and Writing in 91.

Korean Brief Job Description: Open and maintain customer accounts by recording Salary Range: account information Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 METRO SUPPLY, INC. 2f, Unit 11 & 12 Bsa Commercial Bldg., Shaw Blvd., Brgy. Bagong Silang, City Of Mandaluyong Basic Qualification: TEO CHOO GUAN Proficient in speaking, Mandarin Language Senior Manager reading and writing in 92.

Mandarin.

Brief Job Description: Improve customer service experience, create engaged Salary Range: customers and facilitate.

Php 60,000 - Php 89,999 MINDSCAPE CREATIVES INC. Unit 19-o, Burgundy Corporate Tower, 252 Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Pio Del Pilar, City Of Makati Basic Qualification: XU, FENGLEI Proficient in speaking, Mandarin Customer Service reading and writing in 93. mandarin Brief Job Description: Responsible for handling service support calls Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Conducting research and marketing strategies to develop areas of the business opportunities HOU, JIACEN Mandarin Operations Specialist

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 KONGANBUDDIES MARKETING INC. 12/f Pbcom Tower, 6795 Ayala Ave. Cor. V.a. Rufino St., Bel-air, City Of Makati Basic Qualification: DOAN TRONG NGHIA College Graduate at least 6 Vietnamese Customer Service Representative to 1 yrs experience in related 80. field Brief Job Description: Inform customer about services available and assess Salary Range: customer needs Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 KPI ELEVATORS, INC. 25/f Bdo Equitable Bank, Tower 8751 Paseo De Roxas, Bel-air, City Of Makati Basic Qualification: KYRKLUND, TUOMAS PETTERI Relevant degree in Finance Director commercial and technical field 81.

Brief Job Description: Lead the development and execution of the area’s Salary Range: maintenance business Php 150,000 - Php 499,999 LA SIESTA BEACH RESORT INC. U-25d 2/f Zeta Ii Bldg., 191 Salcedo St., San Lorenzo, City Of Makati HYUN, SEOKHWAN Basic Qualification: Assistant Resort Manager College / bachelor degree with excellent written and 82.

Brief Job Description: verbal communication.

Assistant resort manager will be a leader and assist all departments daily and directly oversee all assigned Salary Range: departments.

Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 LERIB SERVICES CORPORATION U-3d Rose Industries Bldg., Choice Market Ortigas, Kapitolyo, City Of Pasig Basic Qualification: WANG, JAE MIN College graduate with Customer Service Representative expirience in the related position, fluent in englist and 83.

Brief Job Description: korean hangul.

Customer service representative to manage customer queries and complaints.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: YOUN, YUNJUNG College graduate with Sales Representative experience in the related position, fluent in English Brief Job Description: 84. and Korean hangul.

Sales representative are responsible for communicating the benefits of a company’s products in order to drive Salary Range: sales.

Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 MANPOWER OUTSOURCING SERVICES INC. Units B & C, 21/f Strata 2000 Bldg., Don F. Ortigas Jr. Road, Ortigas Center, San Antonio, City Of Pasig Basic Qualification: ALVAREZ VEIGA, DAVID Graduate of BS mechanical Technical Consultant Engineering or related course. At least 2 years 85.

Brief Job Description: work experience in a related To improve the reliability of trains. Working towards position technical analysis of the frequent faults that are happening in the fleet on a daily basis Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999 Basic Qualification: Graduate of Industrial Engineering or higher RODRIGUEZ LOPEZ, GORKA courses, professional Warranty Manager experience. Minimum of 5 86. years experience related to Brief Job Description: rolling stock maintenance in Planning of labor and materials; planning milestones, a management position monitoring, and carrying out objectives

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Wednesday, December 8, 2021

Basic Qualification: Able to speak, Read, and Write chinese language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, Read, and Write chinese language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, Read, and Write chinese language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, Read, and Write chinese language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, Read, and Write chinese language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, Read, and Write chinese language

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Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, Read, and Write chinese language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, Read, and Write chinese language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, Read, and Write chinese language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, Read, and Write chinese language

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Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, Read, and Write chinese language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, Read, and Write chinese language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, Read, and Write chinese language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, Read, and Write chinese language

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Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: • Business Partnering, Cash Management, Cost Management, Enterprise Risk Management & Internal Control Framework & Finance Data Strategy, Analytics & Visualization.

Salary Range: Php 500,000 and above

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NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION CAO, HAO Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer Support and Data Base Services

CHEN, SHUANGCHENG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

CHEN, ZEHUI Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

DAI, QINGSHUANG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

DENG, LIANGHUA Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer Support and Data Base Services

HE, SHIXING Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: customer support and data base services

HONG, JIMAO Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

HOU, MINGGUANG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

HU, GAOHUI Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

HUANG, LIZHEN Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer Support and Data Base Services

HUANG, MIAOWEN Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer Support and Data Base Services

JIANG, JIANPING Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

LI, HUI Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: customer support and data base services

LI, LIYAN Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

LIU, CHUANXI Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

LIU, FENGYUN Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

LIU, JIANSONG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer Support and Data Base Services

LIU, QIANQIAN Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

LU, HAN Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer Support and Data Base Services

PENG, JIHUI Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer Support and Data Base Services

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in Computer Applications With Good Oral and Written Communication Skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in Computer Applications With Good Oral and Written Communication Skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in Computer Applications With Good Oral and Written Communication Skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in Computer Applications With Good Oral and Written Communication Skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in Computer Applications With Good Oral and Written Communication Skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in Computer Applications With Good Oral and Written Communication Skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in Computer Applications With Good Oral and Written Communication Skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

A14

BusinessMirror

Wednesday, December 8, 2021

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

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NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION REN, YUANQIN Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

SHEN, NANNAN Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer Support and Data Base Services

TANG, SIGUI Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

TANG, TINGTING Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

TAO, BIN Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer Support and Data Base Services

WAN, ZHIMING Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: customer support and data base services

WANG, SHUAISHUAI Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

WANG, YUCONG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

WANG, YUNHANG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

WU, ZHIJING Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

XIE, LIMING Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

XU, ZISEN Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer Support and Data Base Services

YANG, JUHUA Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: customer support and data base services

YANG, ZHONGHUA Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer Support and Data Base Services

YAO, ZHAOXUN Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer Support and Data Base Services

YIN, QIANQIAN Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

ZHANG, XIAOBAO Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

ZHU, SHICHAO Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

ZUO, JUNCHAO Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

AGUSLINI Indonesian Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in Computer Applications With Good Oral and Written Communication Skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in Computer Applications With Good Oral and Written Communication Skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in Computer Applications With Good Oral and Written Communication Skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in Computer Applications With Good Oral and Written Communication Skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in Computer Applications With Good Oral and Written Communication Skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

No.

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NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION WILIYANA Indonesian Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

WILLY HUSADA Indonesian Customer Service Brief Job Description: customer support and data base services

KIM, JEONGJUN Korean Customer Service Brief Job Description: customer support and data base services

TAM PEK YEE Malaysian Customer Service Brief Job Description: customer support and data base services

CHENG, YU-TSEN Taiwanese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

JUAN, YI-CHENG Taiwanese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

LIN, KENG-TING Taiwanese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

YEN, HAN-SHENG Taiwanese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

LE VAN DUC Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: customer support and data base services

NGUYEN THI NGA Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer Support and Data Base Services

NGUYEN VAN KHANH Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

VI VAN ANH Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

VONG CHI DZENH Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

OCEANIC SYMPHONY SERVICES INC. 3/f Salcedo One Center, 170 Salcedo St., San Lorenzo, City Of Makati CHENG, JING Mandarin Technical Support Specialist 170.

www.businessmirror.com.ph

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in Computer Applications With Good Oral and Written Communication Skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good oral and written communication skills

No.

WU, SHIH-PING Business Lending Development Officer 175.

Brief Job Description: Salary Range: Monitoring and maintaining computer systems and Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 networks OMNIWEALTH ENTERPRISE INC. 17th Flr. Citibank Square Bldg., No. 188 Rodriguez Jr. Ave., Eastwood City Cyberpark, Bagumbayan 3, Quezon City Basic Qualification: Must be a college graduate; Can prepare product VU VAN TINH or service reports by Customer Service Representative collecting and analyzing customer information; Can Brief Job Description: 171. contribute to team effort by Manage large amounts of incoming calls. Generate sales accomplishing related results leads. Identity and assess customers’ needs. Handle as needs; Can manage large customer complaints. Follow communication procedures, amounts of incoming calls guidelines and policies.

Brief Job Description: Answering inquiries, resolving problems, fulfilling requests and maintaining data base HUANG, HUANG Chinese Customer Service Representative

176.

Brief Job Description: Answering inquiries, resolving problems, fulfilling requests and maintaining data base HUANG, YUESHENG Chinese Customer Service Representative

177.

Brief Job Description: Answering inquiries, resolving problems, fulfilling requests and maintaining data base JIANG, WAN Chinese Customer Service Representative

178.

Brief Job Description: Answering inquiries, resolving problems, fulfilling requests and maintaining data base LIN, ZEFENG Chinese Customer Service Representative

179.

Brief Job Description: Answering inquiries, resolving problems, fulfilling requests and maintaining data base WANG, YANNA Chinese Customer Service Representative

180.

Brief Job Description: Answering inquiries, resolving problems, fulfilling requests and maintaining data base XIAO, JIAHAO Chinese Customer Service Representative

181.

Brief Job Description: Answering inquiries, resolving problems, fulfilling requests and maintaining data base ZHENG, AICHANG Chinese Customer Service Representative

182.

Brief Job Description: Answering inquiries, resolving problems, fulfilling requests and maintaining data base ZHENG, WEI Chinese Customer Service Representative

183.

Brief Job Description: Answering inquiries, resolving problems, fulfilling requests and maintaining data base

IBAÑEZ GARCIA, CARLOS RODRIGO Key Account Manager 185.

Brief Job Description: Works directly with our wireless operator customers to understand their network development and expansion requirements.

Basic Qualification: College graduate. Fluent in Mandarin and English.

Preferably 6 months to 1 year customer service Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate. Fluent in Mandarin and English.

Preferably 6 months to 1 year customer service Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate. Fluent in Mandarin and English.

Preferably 6 months to 1 year customer service Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate. Fluent in Mandarin and English.

Preferably 6 months to 1 year customer service Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate. Fluent in Mandarin and English.

Preferably 6 months to 1 year customer service Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate. Fluent in Mandarin and English.

Preferably 6 months to 1 year customer service Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate. Fluent in Mandarin and English.

Preferably 6 months to 1 year customer service Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate. Fluent in Mandarin and English.

Preferably 6 months to 1 year customer service Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate. Fluent in Mandarin and English.

Preferably 6 months to 1 year customer service Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Must be a college graduate, preferably with a degree in Business Management/ Marketing or related course Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

SINOMA CBMIPH CONSTRUCTION CORPORATION 37b Rufino Pacific Tower, Ayala Ave. Cor. V.a. Rufino St., San Lorenzo, City Of Makati

TANG, FUQIANG Mandarin Administrator 186.

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Administrator will be strategist and a leader able to steer the company to the most profitable direction while also implementing its vision, mission and long term goal.

WU, CHANGFA Mandarin Deputy Project Supervisor 187.

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Deputy Project Supervisor will be strategist and a leader able to steer the company to the most profitable direction while also implementing its vision, mission and long term goal.

Basic Qualification: Proven experience as a Mandarin Administrator , Familiarity, knowledge and awareness on Machinery and Heavy Equipment use by company, Demonstrable experience in developing strategic business plan.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proven experience as a Mandarin Deputy Project Supervisor , Familiarity, knowledge and awareness on Machinery and Heavy Equipment use by company, Demonstrable experience in developing strategic business plan.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 PHILIPPINES E-SKY COMMUNICATION INC. Unit E-1905a East Tower, Psec Exchange Road, Ortigas Center, San Antonio, City Of Pasig Basic Qualification: CAO, TIEHUI Minimum of two years Technical Supervisor of working experience in the related field; fluent in 172.

Brief Job Description: mandarin/basic english Manage teams of technicians in a supervisory capacity and travel into the field to oversee workers and conduct Salary Range: inspection on completed works Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 PROCTER & GAMBLE PHILIPPINES, INC. 10f Seven/neo, 5th Ave., Crescent Park West, Bonifacio Global City, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig Basic Qualification: VIGNESH RAMACHANDRAN Extensive experience in Senior Director, Philippines Purchases And Global Scaled purchasing at least 10 years.

Digital Sourcing Service Leader Extensive experience in 173. regional strategy in (Africa Brief Job Description: & Asia) Create vision and organization strategy for the purchases function in the Philippines Salary Range: Php 500,000 and above RIGHT CHOICE FINANCE CORP. 5e-1 Electra House Bldg., 115-117 Esteban Street, San Lorenzo, City Of Makati Basic Qualification: WU, CHIN-HUI College graduate. Fluent Business Lending Development Officer in Mandarin and English.

Preferably 6 months to 1 year 174.

Brief Job Description: to the same field Develop business proposals, analyze current and past expenses, develop creative strategies Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

SBA TOWERS PHILIPPINES, INC. Unit 1203 Highstreet South Corporate Plaza Tower 1, 26th Street Corner 9th Avenue, Bgc., Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig Basic Qualification: Master’s degree, MBA VIEIRA DE ALMEIDA, DOMINGOS SAVIO or other relevant fields Country Manager strongly preferred - a solid understanding of budgeting Brief Job Description: and financial planning is 184.

This position is responsible for the initial start up, essential as this role involves acquisition, build out and operation of S8A wireless agreeing annual budget as telecom tower assets in the Philippines and providing well as producing financial overall guidance and leadership to the business to reports maximize long term value.

Salary Range: Php 500,000 and above

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Can speak mandarin

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

REN, JUNYING Mandarin Electrical Supervisor 188.

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Electrical Supervisor will be strategist and a leader able to steer the company to the most profitable direction while also implementing its vision, mission and long term goal.

Basic Qualification: Proven experience as a Mandarin Electrical Supervisor , Familiarity, knowledge and awareness on Machinery and Heavy Equipment use by company, Demonstrable experience in developing strategic business plan.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

FANG, GUOQIANG Mandarin Mechanical And Electrical Maintenance Supervisor 189.

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Mechanical and Electrical Maintenance Supervisor will be strategist and a leader able to steer the company to the most profitable direction while also implementing its vision, mission and long term goal.

Basic Qualification: Proven experience as a Mandarin Mechanical and Electrical Maintenance Supervisor, Familiarity, knowledge and awareness on Machinery and Heavy Equipment use by company, Demonstrable experience in developing strategic business plan.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

WANG, FENG Mandarin Mechanical Superintendent 190.

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Mechanical Superintendent will be strategist and a leader able to steer the company to the most profitable direction while also implementing its vision, mission and long term goal.

ZENG, YOUBING Mandarin Mechanical Superintendent 191.

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Mechanical Superintendent will be strategist and a leader able to steer the company to the most profitable direction while also implementing its vision, mission and long term goal.

ZHU, SHUNLONG Mandarin Mechanical Superintendent 192.

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Mechanical Superintendent will be strategist and a leader able to steer the company to the most profitable direction while also implementing its vision, mission and long term goal.

FENG, LIANGMING Mandarin Procurement Supervisor 193.

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Procurement Supervisor will be strategist and a leader able to steer the company to the most profitable direction while also implementing its vision, mission and long term goal.

DAI, JIABAO Mandarin Project Monitoring Supervisor 194.

Brief Job Description: Proven experience as a Mandarin Project Monitoring Supervisor , Familiarity, knowledge and awareness on Machinery and Heavy Equipment use by company, Demonstrable experience in developing strategic business plan.

DING, ZHENGJIN Mandarin Slip Form Supervisor 195.

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Slip Form Supervisor will be strategist and a leader able to steer the company to the most profitable direction while also implementing its vision, mission and long term goal.

CHEN, WEI Mandarin Steelman Supervisor 196.

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Steelman Supervisor will be strategist and a leader able to steer the company to the most profitable direction while also implementing its vision, mission and long term goal.

LU, ZHENG Mandarin Structural Maintenance Analyst 197.

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Structural Maintenance Analyst will be strategist and a leader able to steer the company to the most profitable direction while also implementing its vision, mission and long term goal.

LIU, ZHIHUI Mandarin Technical Works Supervisor 198.

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Technical Works Supervisor will be strategist and a leader able to steer the company to the most profitable direction while also implementing its vision, mission and long term goal.

QIAO, BIN Mandarin Technical Works Supervisor 199.

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Technical Works Supervisor will be strategist and a leader able to steer the company to the most profitable direction while also implementing its vision, mission and long term goal.

WANG, YU Mandarin Technical Works Supervisor 200.

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Technical Works Supervisor will be strategist and a leader able to steer the company to the most profitable direction while also implementing its vision, mission and long term goal.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Proven experience as a Mandarin Mechanical Superintendent, Familiarity, knowledge and awareness on Machinery and Heavy Equipment use by company, Demonstrable experience in developing strategic business plan.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proven experience as a Mandarin Mechanical Superintendent, Familiarity, knowledge and awareness on Machinery and Heavy Equipment use by company, Demonstrable experience in developing strategic business plan.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proven experience as a Mandarin Mechanical Superintendent, Familiarity, knowledge and awareness on Machinery and Heavy Equipment use by company, Demonstrable experience in developing strategic business plan.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proven experience as a Mandarin Procurement Supervisor , Familiarity, knowledge and awareness on Machinery and Heavy Equipment use by company, Demonstrable experience in developing strategic business plan.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proven experience as a Mandarin Slip Form Supervisor , Familiarity, knowledge and awareness on Machinery and Heavy Equipment use by company, Demonstrable experience in developing strategic business plan.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proven experience as a Mandarin Steelman Supervisor , Familiarity, knowledge and awareness on Machinery and Heavy Equipment use by company, Demonstrable experience in developing strategic business plan.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proven experience as a Mandarin Structural Maintenance Analyst , Familiarity, knowledge and awareness on Machinery and Heavy Equipment use by company, Demonstrable experience in developing strategic business plan.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proven experience as a Mandarin Technical Works Supervisor , Familiarity, knowledge and awareness on Machinery and Heavy Equipment use by company, Demonstrable experience in developing strategic business plan.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proven experience as a Mandarin Technical Works Supervisor , Familiarity, knowledge and awareness on Machinery and Heavy Equipment use by company, Demonstrable experience in developing strategic business plan.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proven experience as a Mandarin Technical Works Supervisor , Familiarity, knowledge and awareness on Machinery and Heavy Equipment use by company, Demonstrable experience in developing strategic business plan.

SJMZ GLOBAL ENTERPRISES, OPC #117, I.t.c. Cmpd., Bagbaguin, City Of Valenzuela

201.

202.

Brief Job Description: Oversee the performance of Chinese / Cantonese clients LIN, ZONGYUAN Chinese Marketing Supervisor Brief Job Description: Oversee the performance of Chinese employees

203.

Basic Qualification: Mandarin speaking, at least 1 yr advanced graduate Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Mandarin speaking, at least 1 yr advanced graduate Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

SUPREME CHENGHAO MANAGEMENT OPC Level 26-a Rufino Pacific Tower, 6784 Ayala Ave., San Lorenzo, City Of Makati

Brief Job Description: Address customer issues and resolve them in a timely and efficient manner

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: At least two(2) years of working experience in the related field Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

SURESTE PROPERTIES INC. The Executive Offices, Solaire Resort & Casino, 1 Asean Avenue, Entertainment City, Tambo, City Of Parañaque YANG, TSUNG-HAO Basic Qualification: Butler, VIP F&B International (Chinese) Proven professional experience.

204.

Brief Job Description: Ensure the butler pantries and all work areas in excellent Salary Range: condition.

Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: WILKINSON, CHRISTOPHER LESLIE proven professional Senior Director, Construction - SOLN experience.

205.

Brief Job Description: Salary Range: Overall leader of the project site.

Php 150,000 - Php 499,999 TANZILA TRADING INC. U-29 3/f Bac., Bagong Milenyo F.b. Harrison St., Brgy. 076, Pasay City Basic Qualification: Well-developed core consulting skills of research KIM, YEONJOON analysis, presentation and Consultant attention to detail attitude to grasp new concepts and Brief Job Description: effectively produce results, Compiling and presenting information orally, visually exceptional problem-solving 206. and in writing must be fluent in English and Vietnamese skills-an analytical innovate language, Making recommendations for improvement and creative mindset , using computer models to test them and presenting fluency in English and findings to client, Developing and implementing new Vietnamese language is a procedures of training must

PHAM THI NGAN Consultant 207.

Brief Job Description: Compiling and presenting information orally, visually and in writing must be fluent in English and Vietnamese language, Making recommendations for improvement using computer models to test them and presenting findings to client, Developing and implementing new procedures of training

WANG, JIAN Trade Marketing Specialist 208.

Brief Job Description: Develop implement and communicate metrics reporting processes and documentation across plants and companies in collaboration with operations, marketing and sales functions , fluency in English and mandarin language is sa must

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Well-developed core consulting skills of research analysis, presentation and attention to detail attitude to grasp new concepts and effectively produce results, exceptional problem-solving skills-an analytical innovate and creative mindset , fluency in English and Vietnamese language is a must Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Strong knowledge of consumer industry, Strong range arrangement ability to think critically and creatively, Fluency in English and Mandarin Language is a must Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

TRI7 SOLUTIONS, INC. Unit 9-a 9/f Marvin Plaza Bldg., 2153 Don Chino Roces Ave., Pio Del Pilar, City Of Makati Basic Qualification: FAN, ZHOUBIN Proficient in writing, reading Chinese Language Customer Service Representative and speaking in both English/ Bahasa/Thai/Chinese/ Brief Job Description: 209.

Vietnamese/Malay Report on a daily operation of call center activities performing customer-oriented telephone activities & Salary Range: various background operations duties Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 LI, GUANGFU Basic Qualification: Chinese Language Customer Service Representative proficient in writing, reading and speaking in both English 210.

Brief Job Description: and Korean/Bahasa/Chinese report on a daily operation of call center activities performing customer-oriented telephone activities & Salary Range: various background operations duties Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: YANG, NANA Proficient in writing, reading Chinese Language Customer Service Representative and speaking in both English/ Bahasa/Thai/Chinese/ 211.

Brief Job Description: Vietnamese/Malay Report on a daily operation of call center activities performing customer-oriented telephone activities & Salary Range: various background operations duties Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 UNITED MOTION BUSINESS CONSULTANCY INC. U-2215 22f Cityland 10 Tower 2, 154 H.v. Dela Costa Cor. Valero Sts., Bel-air, City Of Makati WANG, SHIQI Basic Qualification: Mandarin Human Resource Officer Preferably 6 months -1-year as HR Staff/ Admin Staff; Brief Job Description: Fluent in Mandarin and 212.

Ensures HR 201 files for database and Personnel files English for Chinese employees are well organized, maintained, kept up-to date and follows rules & regulations of the Salary Range: company. They assist in Chinese foreigners’ application Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 and management URBANDIDEAS INC. Unit 17-m Burgundy Corporate Tower, 252 Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Pio Del Pilar, City Of Makati ZHANG, KAI Basic Qualification: Mandarin Technical Support Can speak Mandarin 213.

Brief Job Description: Salary Range: Monitoring and maintaining computer systems and Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 networks.

VASTLINE BUSINESS SUPPORT INC. U-504p Five E-com Ctr. Bldg., Pacific Drive, Brgy. 076, Pasay City Basic Qualification: MA, MINGYANG Proficient in Speaking , Mandarin Field Marketing Officer reading and Writing in 214.

Mandarin Brief Job Description: Foster Human Relationship Through Communication and Salary Range: Distribution of Marketing Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: ZHENG, YUNPENG Proficient in Speaking , Mandarin Field Marketing Officer reading and Writing in Mandarin 215.

Brief Job Description: Foster Human Relationship Through Communication and Salary Range: Distribution of Marketing Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: LI, YUSHENG Proficient in Speaking , Mandarin Site Technical Officer reading and Writing in 216.

Mandarin Brief Job Description: Reporting Urgent Maintenance and repair tasks Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: LIU, CHENGWU Proficient in Speaking , Mandarin Site Technical Officer reading and Writing in 217.

Mandarin Brief Job Description: Reporting Urgent Maintenance and repair tasks Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: XIAO, FENG Proficient in Speaking , Mandarin Site Technical Officer reading and Writing in 218.

Mandarin Brief Job Description: Reporting Urgent Maintenance and repair tasks Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 VERTEX DIGITAL ENTERTAINMENT TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 1439 Adriatico Cor. Sta. Monica St., 072, Bgy. 669, Ermita, City Of Manila

219.

LI, TAOYONG Chinese It Specialist Brief Job Description: maintain the operations of electronic gaming devices

A15

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION HUANG, XIAOHUA Mandarin Speaking Customer Service

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: The Mandarin Project Monitoring Supervisor will be strategist and a leader able to steer the company to the most profitable direction while also implementing its vision, mission and long term goal.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

DUONG THI THAO NHI Chinese Marketing Supervisor

No.

Wednesday, December 8, 2021

Basic Qualification: 300 vacancy/college graduate with experience in maintain gaming devices, fluent in mandarin and english speaking Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

No.

220.

221.

222.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

WU, CONG Chinese It Specialist Brief Job Description: maintain the operations of electronic gaming devices

XIANG, JUNJIE Chinese It Specialist Brief Job Description: maintain the operations of electronic gaming devices

YANG, XIAOSHUANG Chinese It Specialist Brief Job Description: maintain the operations of electronic gaming devices

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: 300 vacancy/college graduate with experience in maintain gaming devices, fluent in mandarin and english speaking Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: 300 vacancy/college graduate with experience in maintain gaming devices, fluent in mandarin and english speaking Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: 300 vacancy/college graduate with experience in maintain gaming devices, fluent in mandarin and english speaking Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

VPC CORPORATE SOLUTIONS INCORPORATED 11/f 100 West, Sen Gil Puyat Ave. Cor., Washington St., Pio Del Pilar, City Of Makati CHEN, GUOLIANG Bilingual Technical Support Specialist 223.

Brief Job Description: Evaluates expansions or enhancements by studying work load capacity of computer system HU, GUIJIE Bilingual Technical Support Specialist

224.

Brief Job Description: Evaluates expansions or enhancements by studying work load capacity of computer system PAN, ANGUO Bilingual Technical Support Specialist

225.

Brief Job Description: Evaluates expansions or enhancements by studying work load capacity of computer system

Basic Qualification: excellent in writing, reading and speaking in bilingual languages Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Excellent in writing, reading and speaking in bilingual languages Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Excellent in writing, reading and speaking in bilingual languages Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

WIKITECH SERVICES INC. Unit 25d 2/f Zeta Ii Bldg., 191 Salcedo St., San Lorenzo, City Of Makati LIU, JINYUAN Mandarin Accounts Staff 226.

227.

228.

229.

Brief Job Description: Analyze and prepare revenue reports, expense reports and other business transaction reports WANG, XING Mandarin Accounts Staff Brief Job Description: analyze and prepare revenue reports, expense reports and other business transaction reports ZHENG, SHAOLING Mandarin Accounts Staff Brief Job Description: analyze and prepare revenue reports, expense reports and other business transaction reports CHEN, XIAN Mandarin Marketing Specialist Brief Job Description: Undertake a market research HSU, CHIEN-YU Mandarin Marketing Specialist

230.

231.

Brief Job Description: Undertake a market analysis to include details on the market characteristics and competitor characteristics LONG, HAN Mandarin Marketing Specialist Brief Job Description: Organize promotions and events for company clients MAO, GUANGYUAN Mandarin Marketing Specialist

232.

233.

234.

235.

236.

237.

238.

239.

Brief Job Description: Undertake a market analysis to include details on the market characteristics and competitor characteristics PAN, RONGTIAN Mandarin Marketing Specialist Brief Job Description: Undertake a market analysis to include details on the market characteristics and competitor characteristics WU, YUANFENG Mandarin Marketing Specialist Brief Job Description: Undertake a market analysis to include details on the market characteristics and competitor characteristics ZHONG, CHONG Mandarin Marketing Specialist Brief Job Description: Undertake a market analysis to include details on the market characteristics and competitor characteristics ZHU, CHI Mandarin Marketing Specialist Brief Job Description: Undertake a market analysis to include details on the market characteristics and competitor characteristics BAI, XUETENG Mandarin Technical Support Brief Job Description: troubleshooting system and network problems and diagnosing and solving hardware or software faults YAN, HONGTU Mandarin Technical Support Brief Job Description: troubleshooting system and network problems and diagnosing and solving hardware or software faults YAO, XIN Mandarin Technical Support Brief Job Description: troubleshooting system and network problems and diagnosing and solving hardware or software faults

Basic Qualification: Proficient Language skills and skills match to Job Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: proficient language skills and skills match to job Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: proficient language skills and skills match to job Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient language skills and skills match to job Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient language skills and skills match to job Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient language skills and skills match to job Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient language skills and skills match to job Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient language skills and skills match to job Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient language skills and skills match to job Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient language skills and skills match to job Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient language skills and skills match to job Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: proficient language skills and skills match to job Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: proficient language skills and skills match to job Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: proficient language skills and skills match to job Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 *Date Generated: Dec 7, 2021

Any person in the Philippines who is competent, able and willing to perform the services for which the foreign national is desired may file an objection at DOLE National Capital Region located at DOLE-NCR Building, 967 Maligaya St., Malate Manila, within 30 days after this publication.

Please inform DOLE National Capital Region if you have any information on criminal offense committed by the foreign nationals.

ATTY. SARAH BUENA S. MIRASOL REGIONAL DIRECTOR

Editor: Jennifer A. Ng

Companies BusinessMirror

Wednesday, December 8, 2021

B1

Cebu Pacific plans to expand capacity

B

By Lorenz S. Marasigan

@lorenzmarasigan

udget carrier Cebu Pacific plans to increase its network capacity in 2022—with domestic and international operations expected to rise to 84 percent and 39 percent of their pre-Covid levels, respectively— given the airline’s “cautious optimism” amid increased inoculation rates in the Philippines.

Alex Reyes, the company’s head of strategy, said Cebu Pacific expects demand for travel will remain on a growth path if 2021 was any indication. From operating at only 19 percent of its original capacity, Cebu Pacific has restored 60 percent of its pre-Covid capacity this month.

“Clearly on the domestic side, recovery will be much quicker with 84 percent of total output in 2022. We’re expecting that in some months we’ll actually be back to levels in 2020 on a monthon-month comparison. International side will be much slower [at 39 percent of total output],” Reyes said during a press briefing on Tuesday.

He added that the group is prepared to meet higher travel demand next year with the addition of six new aircraft to its fleet. Cebu Pacific will receive two A321neo (new engine option), one A320neo, two A330neo, and one ATR 72-600 this year.

“We’ve already taken deliveries of the two A321neos, the A330 and the A320. Another A330neo, along with the ATR 72-600, are expected to arrive. We are among the few airlines in the world and the only one in the Philippines to take deliveries during a pandemic, which is a testament to CEB’s resilience, liquidity, and expected recovery as we enter

PSE greenlights Figaro IPO

By VG Cabuag @villygc

T

he Philippine Stock Exchange Inc. (PSE) has approved the initial public offering (IPO) of Figaro Coffee Group Inc. (FCG), the last local firm to go public this year.

Figaro, a pioneer in the coffee shop sector in the country, is selling 1.26 billion primary shares and up to 126 million overallotment shares, for an indicative price of P1.28 apiece.

It hopes to raise as much as P1.77 billion from the IPO. The final offer price will be determined on December 10 after the company conducts its book building process, while offer period is scheduled on December 16 to 22. Its tentative listing date is set on New Year’s Eve. “We are pleased that this year’s fund raising pipeline will be capped with an IPO. This shows that despite the pandemic, companies new to the stock market have the opportunity to raise capital through equity financing. We are looking forward to supporting FCG in its IPO as it aims to raise funds for expansion,” PSE President and CEO Ramon S. Monzon said.

The firm will offer 10 percent of its offer shares to local small investors, who may subscribe to the IPO through the PSE EASy website or mobile application.

In its documents, the company will include its other brands, such as Angel’s Pizza and Tien Ma restaurants in the IPO. “We intend to use the net proceeds from the offer primarily to fund the following projects and plans: store openings and renovations; commissary expansion; debt repayment; IT infrastructure developments; and potential acquisitions,” the company said.

“As part of our growth plans, we plan to have a total of about 150 system-wide stores by the end of 2022 and more than 300 system-wide stores throughout the country by the end of 2029. As part of our store network expansion plan, we consider the viability of potential locations subject to various factors such as market and economic conditions, and results of our operations and performance.”

The company said it will expand its company-owned stores for the next three years. For Angel’s Pizza, it will expand to viable locations in Metro Manila, Bulacan, Laguna, Cavite, Pampanga and Batangas, with 35 company-owned stores. For Figaro Coffee, it will expand to six locations mostly in Metro Manila including malls, hospitals and mixed-use areas or central business districts and also Metro Manila for Tien Ma’s, with two more branches and TFG Express, with 18 additional branches.

“Out of the approximate P501.50 million offer proceeds to fund store openings and renovations, an estimated total of P432 million is allotted for capital expenditures for the planned company-store openings.”

The company said it will use some P350.3 million to increase the system-wide capacity of its commissary operations. The commissary expansion involves the construction of satellite commissaries in key locations

throughout the country and the construction of a new commissary, dubbed the Mayon 2 Commissary building to be located in the head office of the subsidiary.

The company has engaged Abacus Capital and Investment Corp., China Bank Capital Corp. and PNB Capital and Investment Corp. as joint issue managers, joint lead underwriters and joint bookrunners for the offer.

The Figaro Group is a home-grown diversified food group with over 25 years in the industry. It operates through its one wholly-owned subsidiary, Figaro Coffee Systems Inc., which operates a set of retail restaurants with 90 branches nationwide and international territories that serve a variety of food offerings and services.

As of September 17, it operates 52 Figaro coffee shops, 31 Angel’s Pizza outlets, five Tien Ma’s Taiwanese cuisine restaurants, one TFG Express outlet and one Café Portofino outlet.

Passage of ICT infra bill pushed G lobe Telecom Inc. said on Tuesday the passage of a bill removing a significant roadblock in the rollout of telecommunications infrastructure in villages, subdivisions, and housing projects nationwide will accelerate its goal of establishing a “first world network” in the Philippines.

Froilan Castelo, Globe General Counsel, said the company is “optimistic” that the Senate will follow the lead of the House of Representatives in passing the said bill, which will mandate all housing projects, subdivisions, villages, or other residential areas, including socialized housing projects, to allocate 30 percent of the gross area for open space to establish ICT infrastructure and related amenities.

The House of Representatives recently approved on third and final reading House Bill 10388 or An Act Mandating the Allocation of an Area for Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Infrastructure and Facilities in Subdivisions and Housing Development Projects.

The piece of legislation seeks to promote the accessibility of ICT and ensure digital connectivity in urban centers and populated areas of the country.

“We are thankful to our lawmakers for their support. This piece of legislation helps address the permitting issues for right-of-way and cell site development in villages and subdivisions that affect Globe’s commitment to delivering a #1stWorldNetwork to Filipino homes,”

Castelo said.

Globe has long been lamenting the permitting issues with homeowners’ associations (HOAs) in establishing right-of-way in subdivisions to deploy broadband fiber and construct cell sites.

These associations mainly refuse the construction of telco infrastructure citing health risks and aesthetic reasons.

Health officials both here and abroad have already debunked the health risks associated with frequencies emitted by towers.

Castelo said the passage of the bill will enable Globe to further expand its network, a move that is consistent with its goal of capitalizing on the increased demand for Internet connectivity amid the pandemic. Lorenz S. Marasigan

2022,” Reyes said.

This month alone, Cebu Pacific is increasing its frequencies from Manila to Boracay, Cebu, Cagayan de Oro, and Davao. It will also resume its flights to Fukuoka, Bangkok, and Taiwan.

“We continue to rebuild our domestic and international network to support tourism growth in 2022 while continuing to promote safe and responsible travel. This is the only way to regain trust and confidence in travel, paving the way towards economic recovery,” said Candice Iyog, VP for Marketing and Customer Experience at Cebu Pacific.

For her part, Tourism Secretary

Bernadette Romulo-Puyat shared Cebu Pacific’s optimism for the strong recovery of the aviation and tourism sectors, as demand for travel slowly comes back with reduced restrictions and higher vaccination rates.

“We, in the Department of Tourism, believe that our days of despair are over as we’ve seen many encouraging signs in the last few weeks. This includes the continually dropping Covid case numbers, easing of alert levels and restrictions on mobility, and even the lessening of quarantine days for fully vaccinated Filipinos returning from overseas,” RomuloPuyat said.

B2

Companies BusinessMirror

Wednesday, December 8, 2021

SMC power unit sets sights on massive LNG projects

By Lenie Lectura

T

@llectura

he power arm of conglomerate San Miguel Corp. (SMC) has informed the Department of Energy (DOE) of its plan to put up massive liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects with a combined capacity of nearly 6,800 megawatts (MW).

Latest data posted on the DOE website showed that San Miguel Electric Corp., a wholly-owned subsidiary of SMC Global Power Holdings Corp. (SMCGPH)—one of the largest power companies in the country—sought the green light of the agency to proceed with the conduct of system impact study (SIS) for its 6,492 megawatt(MW) Navotas LNG Power Plant.

According to the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), SIS is an assessment conducted by the Transmission Network Provider or System Operator in addition to the grid impact studies (GIS) prepared by it in accordance with the Philippine Grid Code. This study is necessary in order to determine

the adequacy of the grid and its capability to accommodate a request for power delivery service; and the costs, if any, that may be incurred to provide power delivery service to a transmission customer.

The GIS is a set of technical studies, which are used to assess the possible effects of a proposed expansion, reinforcement, or modification of the grid or a user development and to evaluate significant incidents.

No other details were provided for the 12x541MW LNG power project that will be located in Barangay Tanza, Navotas. When sought for comment, SMC President Ramon S. Ang said the Navotas LNG project is a “plan for [the] next 25 years.”

San Miguel Consolidated Power

power project of SolarAce2 Energy Corp. in Zambales, 200MW Bugallon energy storage project of Camsur II Wind Energy Corp., 593MW San Lorenzo Bank offshore wind power of Earth Sol Power Corp., 300MW coal power plant of Reliance Energy Development Inc., 300MW Bagac Bay onshore wind in Bataan, and the 500MW San Enrique Bank offshore wind in Negros Occidental of Earth Sol Power Corp.

The 20MWp solar power of PAVI Green Renewable Energy, Inc.; 60MWp Ramon solar power of PV Sinag Power, Inc.; 95MW baseload power project of Conal Holdings, Corp.; 125MW Kalayaan 4 south wind energy and 125MW Kalayaan 4 north wind energy projects of Cleantech Global Renewables; 280MWp San Isidro solar power of Total Power Inc.; 1,128MW combined cycle gasfired power plant of Global Luzon Energy Development Corp.; and the 300MW Laguna Lake-Lumban solar power of Lihangin Wind Energy Corp. were also part of the DOE list.

These projects have been issued with certificates of endorsement to the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines for clearance to undertake SIS. The certificates were issued in October and November this year and were posted on the DOE website on December 7.

Corp., another subsidiary of SMCGPH, also applied for the conduct of SIS for its planned 300MW Sangali LNG Project to be located in Sangali, Zamboanga City.

The Navotas LNG and Sangali LNG projects are among the 26 power projects that secured the green light of the DOE for the conduct of SIS as of October and November this year. If all of 26 projects will be successfully put up, these will add 15,743MW of power generation capacity.

The applications of the power arm of Ayala Corp. were also approved.

These include the 150MW Pantabangan wind power project of Gigawind2 Inc., 100MWp solar power project of Giga Ace 8 Inc., 1,024MW Calatagan Offshore Wind of Giga Ace 7 Inc., and the 1,248MW Manila Bay wind power of Gigawind 5 Inc. The applications of ACX3 Capital Holdings Inc. for its 475MW Lucena wind power project, 275MW Tayabas Bay wind power project, 500MW San Miguel Bay wind power project, and 600MW Lubang and Looc Island wind power project were also given the go-signal.

Included in the DOE list are the 600MW (8x75) Tabangao LNG power project of Prestige Power Resources Inc., 48MW Nasipit hybrid energy storage system project of Therma Marine Inc., the solar

Omicron fears dampen Medilines debut

By VG Cabuag @villygc

S

hares of Medilines Distributors Inc., a distributor of medical equipment in the country, fell on its debut on the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE), as investors decided to sell their holdings over fears of the omicron variant of Covid-19.

Shares of Medilines, trading under the symbol “MEDIC,” declined to P0.69 per share, or 30 percent, to close at P1.61 from its IPO price of P2.30 apiece on Tuesday.

“Overall, the company is solid.

The selling today was overdone,” Luis Limlingan, managing director at Regina Capital and Development Corp. said.

Limlingan said Medilines did its book building and pricing process when the main index was at 7,400-point level, but many panic sellers failed to get out of the market when the index fell to 6,900 points.

“I think it [the fall in share price] is more of a sentiment. We are at a net foreign selling because of the omicron, so maybe that’s the effect,” he said.

The benchmark PSE index was up on Tuesday by 16.56 points to close at 7,147.30. Total value of trade reached P7.86 billion, but foreign investors were net sellers at P259.7 million.

“Medilines is the first company to be listed in the PSE that deals directly with the healthcare industry.

It is no wonder then that Medilines’ IPO had an overwhelming reception as its total offer was 2.5 times oversubscribed. The Local Small

Investor tranche of the offering at PSE EASy was likewise oversubscribed thereby providing Medilines with 2,889 retail investors from 64 provinces, 16 countries and one territory,” PSE President and CEO Ramon S. Monzon said.

Demand for the IPO exceeded P4.7 billion on the back of strong demand across all tranches, resulting to an oversubscription 2.5 times the offer size of P1.9 billion, the company said earlier.

The company has offered up to 550 million primary common shares and up to 275 million secondary shares.

“The initial public offering of Medilines comes at an opportune time as the global healthcare system takes center stage due to the pandemic. I am pleased that the PSE was able to serve as the company’s partner in its fund-raising activity.

I hope that Mediline’s IPO will encourage other companies supplying products and equipment to the healthcare industry and especially those principally in the healthcare space to likewise consider tapping the equities market for capital,” Monzon said.

“It was a pleasant surprise to see overwhelming interest from a diverse set of investors – spanning from high quality, long-only domestic institutional investors and thousands of Filipino retail investors from across the world,” Medilines Chairman Virgilio B. Villar said.

Villar is the younger brother of businessman and former politician Manuel B. Villar Jr. Part of the proceeds from the IPO will be used by Medilines for its foray into the highgrow th, high-margin medical consumables business to support the growing industry.

Founded in 20 02, Medilines plans to expand its presence and product por tfol io to help enhance the country’s healthcare system through quality medical devices.

mutual funds

December 7, 2021

NAV

One Year Three Year Five Year

per share

Return*

Y-T-D Return

Stock Funds ALFM Growth Fund, Inc. -a

227.93

0.22%

-3.6%

-0.93%

0.32%

ATRAM Alpha Opportunity Fund, Inc. -a

1.6632

26.94%

5.73%

4.64%

26.67%

ATRAM Philippine Equity Opportunity Fund, Inc. -a 3.1763

0.7%

-6.83%

-3.69%

1.38%

Climbs Share Capital Equity Investment Fund Corp. -a 0.7537 -7.35%

-5.65% n.a.

-7.27%

First Metro Consumer Fund on MSCI Phils. IMI, Inc. -a 0.7787

-2.33% n.a.

First Metro Save and Learn Equity Fund,Inc. -a

5.0908

3.1%

5%

2.71%

-1.26%

0.88%

3.03%

First Metro Save and Learn Philippine Index Fund, Inc. -a

0.7632

-0.21%

-3.1%

-2.78%

MBG Equity Investment Fund, Inc. -a

-6.1% n.a.

-5.9%

95.86

-3.01%

PAMI Equity Index Fund, Inc. -a

46.8261

-0.05%

-1.96%

0.75%

Philam Strategic Growth Fund, Inc. -a

489.58

0.03%

-1.93%

0.04%

0.13%

Philequity Alpha One Fund, Inc. -a,d

1.1497

6.19% n.a. n.a.

4.78%

-0.03%

Philequity Dividend Yield Fund, Inc. -a

1.3058

12.31%

0.97%

2.35%

Philequity Fund, Inc. -a

35.6725

2.97%

-1.19%

1.38%

2.6%

0.34% n.a. n.a.

0.55%

Philequity MSCI Philippine Index Fund, Inc. -a

0.918

Philequity PSE Index Fund Inc. -a

11.78%

4.826

0.75%

-1.22%

1.38%

0.73%

805.85

0.58%

-1.23%

1.33%

0.53%

Soldivo Strategic Growth Fund, Inc. -a

0.7407

Sun Life Prosperity Philippine Equity Fund, Inc. -a 3.6785

Philippine Stock Index Fund Corp. -a

1.9%

-5.16%

-1.78%

3.03%

1.81%

-3.72%

-0.29%

1.51%

Sun Life Prosperity Philippine Stock Index Fund, Inc. -a 0.9188 0.16%

-1.58%

1.06%

0.12%

United Fund, Inc. -a

-1.57%

2.02%

1.7%

-1.02%

1.81%

3.375

1.58%

-1.7%

Exchange Traded Fund First Metro Phil. Equity Exchange Traded Fund, Inc. -a,c

108.3866

0.77%

0.77%

Primarily invested in foreign currency securities -5.24%

5.17%

5.45%

-6.87%

Sun Life Prosperity World Voyager Fund, Inc. -a $1.7917

ATRAM AsiaPlus Equity Fund, Inc. -b $1.1203

9.79%

14.2%

11.82%

7.11%

Balanced Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities ATRAM Dynamic Allocation Fund, Inc. -a

1.6673

0.31%

0.1%

0.13%

-0.08%

ATRAM Philippine Balanced Fund, Inc. -a

2.2454

-1.5%

0.53%

0.4%

-1.75%

First Metro Save and Learn Balanced Fund Inc. -a 2.6638

1.21%

1.64%

2.09%

1.4%

First Metro Save and Learn F.O.C.C.U.S. Dynamic Fund, Inc. -a 0.2053

3.27% n.a. n.a.

NCM Mutual Fund of the Phils., Inc. -a 1.9873

1.06%

2.46%

2.29%

1.03%

PAMI Horizon Fund, Inc. -a

3.7103

-1.89%

1.48%

1.27%

-2.1%

Philam Fund, Inc. -a

16.6089

-1.78%

1.3%

1.16%

-1.95%

Solidaritas Fund, Inc. -a

2.0925

0.07%

0.27%

1.02%

0.6%

-0.96%

Sun Life of Canada Prosperity Balanced Fund, Inc. -a 3.5863

0.07%

0.74%

0.36%

-3.75% n.a. n.a.

-4.05%

Sun Life Prosperity Achiever Fund 2038, Inc. -a,d 0.9249

-2.8% n.a. n.a.

-2.56%

Sun Life Prosperity Achiever Fund 2048, Inc. -a,d 0.9139

-2.25% n.a. n.a.

-2.06%

Sun Life Prosperity Achiever Fund 2028, Inc. -a,d 0.9812

Sun Life Prosperity Dynamic Fund, Inc. -a

0.933

5.39%

-0.07%

0.94%

3.63%

5.1%

Primarily invested in foreign currency securities Cocolife Dollar Fund Builder, Inc. -a

$0.03781

-3.03%

2.64%

1.62%

-3.3%

PAMI Asia Balanced Fund, Inc. -b

$1.0506

-7.14%

3.25%

3.48%

-7.03%

6.47%

10.37%

8.75%

4.27%

Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Wellspring Fund, Inc. -a $1.1878 0.02%

5.42%

4.37%

-1.2%

0.69%

Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Advantage Fund, Inc. -a $4.7056

Primarily invested in Peso securities ALFM Peso Bond Fund, Inc. -a

373.68

0.99%

2.92%

2.61%

1.9262

1.51%

1.29%

0.4%

1.36%

Cocolife Fixed Income Fund, Inc. -a

3.2425

1.01%

3.07%

3.95%

0.84%

Ekklesia Mutual Fund Inc. -a

2.2463

-2%

1.81%

1.77%

-2.26%

First Metro Save and Learn Fixed Income Fund,Inc. -a 2.4207 -1.08%

3.14%

1.86%

-1.32%

Philam Bond Fund, Inc. -a

3.87%

1.86%

-5.31% -0.39%

4.3843

-5.27%

Philam Managed Income Fund, Inc. -a

1.3162

-0.04%

3.74%

2.71%

Philequity Peso Bond Fund, Inc. -a

3.9572

-0.36%

4.23%

2.74%

-1.1%

Soldivo Bond Fund, Inc. -a

1.0261

-0.97%

4.8%

2.28%

-1.67%

Sun Life of Canada Prosperity Bond Fund, Inc. -a 3.1743

-0.43%

4.65%

3.72%

-0.99%

Sun Life Prosperity GS Fund, Inc. -a

-1.22%

3.79%

3.09%

-1.9%

1.7217

Primarily invested in foreign currency securities ALFM Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -a

$488.76

1.24%

2.99%

2.51%

0.98%

ALFM Euro Bond Fund, Inc. -a

Є219.6

0.4%

1.11%

1.01%

0.17%

ATRAM Total Return Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -b

1.82%

-6.02%

1.45%

1.03%

-2.26%

PAMI Global Bond Fund, Inc -b

$1.2027 $1.0181

-6.64%

-5.41%

-0.36%

-0.65%

-6.6%

Philam Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -a

$2.4994

-1.08%

5.12%

2.92%

-1.6%

Philequity Dollar Income Fund Inc. -a

$0.0623422

0.24%

3.06%

2.04%

0.07%

Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Abundance Fund, Inc. -a $3.1824 -0.59%

3.51%

1.84%

-1.28%

First Metro Save and Learn Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -a $0.026 -1.89%

2.28%

Money Market Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities ALFM Money Market Fund, Inc. -a

2.55%

0.96%

First Metro Save and Learn Money Market Fund, Inc. -a 1.0571 0.95% n.a. n.a.

0.86%

Sun Life Prosperity Peso Starter Fund, Inc. -a,1

131.07 1.3144

1.11% 1.51%

2.84% 2.63%

2.53%

1.35%

Primarily invested in foreign currency securities Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Starter Fund, Inc. -a $1.0601

0.8%

1.46% n.a.

0.62%

Feeder Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities Sun Life Prosperity World Equity Index Feeder Fund, Inc. -a,d 1.3229

19.51% n.a. n.a.

PSE STOCK QUOTATIONS

December 7, 2021

Net Foreign Stocks Bid Ask Open High Low Close Volume Value Trade (Peso) Buy (Sell) FINANCIALs

BDO UNIBANK BANK PH ISLANDS CHINABANK EAST WEST BANK METROBANK PB BANK PHIL NATL BANK PSBANK RCBC SECURITY BANK UNION BANK BRIGHT KINDLE COL FINANCIAL FIRST ABACUS FERRONOUX HLDG IREMIT NTL REINSURANCE PHIL STOCK EXCH

375,771,283 140,185,924.50 5,646,315 381,355 86,280,776.50 99,270 2,270,277 18,923 3,925,852 130,830,155 9,373,199.50 8,471,870 1,215,000 5,580 199,520 375,440 60,000 420,990

-28,234,092 43,378,487.50 76,350 78,960 1,770,081.50 -121,658 -11,448 190,000 12,463,550 289,218.50 -128,840 9,000 -

INDUSTRIAL AC ENERGY 10.48 10.5 10.9 10.9 9.97 10.5 104,575,200 1,080,020,355 ALSONS CONS 1.09 1.14 1.09 1.14 1.09 1.14 2,501,000 2,726,140 29.3 29.5 30.15 30.15 29.3 29.3 1,529,200 45,160,435 ABOITIZ POWER BASIC ENERGY 0.63 0.64 0.64 0.65 0.63 0.64 9,725,000 6,163,310 28.6 28.75 29.15 29.15 28.6 28.6 200,300 5,736,570 FIRST GEN FIRST PHIL HLDG 72.1 72.35 72.3 72.35 72.05 72.1 156,810 11,306,257 292 295.4 295.2 296.8 292 292 60,830 17,844,166 MERALCO MANILA WATER 24.6 24.95 25.5 25.5 24.5 24.95 1,387,800 34,625,500 3.16 3.19 3.2 3.2 3.16 3.16 480,000 1,525,470 PETRON PETROENERGY 3.92 4.1 4.05 4.05 3.92 4.05 36,000 145,440 10.72 11.48 11.46 11.48 10.86 11.48 9,000 102,654 PHX PETROLEUM PILIPINAS SHELL 19.94 19.96 19.9 20.5 19.9 19.96 95,100 1,920,871 SPC POWER 13.9 13.98 13.98 14 13.7 13.98 57,100 792,416 3.9 3.98 3.98 3.99 3.98 3.98 163,000 648,750 AGRINURTURE AXELUM 2.94 2.96 2.97 3 2.9 2.96 3,666,000 10,936,800 61.05 70.95 61.05 61.05 61.05 61.05 200 12,210 BOGO MEDELLIN CENTURY FOOD 26.5 26.8 26.05 26.8 26.05 26.5 1,307,400 34,682,875 14.12 14.26 14.12 14.28 14.08 14.12 61,300 866,144 DEL MONTE DNL INDUS 8.78 8.8 8.7 8.88 8.7 8.8 3,836,000 33,868,765 17.88 17.9 18 18.06 17.78 17.9 3,188,200 57,139,244 EMPERADOR SMC FOODANDBEV 74.05 74.35 74.3 74.35 74.05 74.35 29,980 2,226,490.50 ALLIANCE SELECT 0.53 0.57 0.6 0.6 0.57 0.57 47,000 26,850 1.22 1.24 1.25 1.25 1.23 1.24 965,000 1,192,600 FRUITAS HLDG GINEBRA 105 105.9 106 106.5 105 105 238,470 25,104,883 232 232.2 229.6 232 228.6 232 345,810 80,043,710 JOLLIBEE LIBERTY FLOUR 27.25 28.95 27.25 27.25 27.25 27.25 1,400 38,150 6.61 6.69 6.79 6.83 6.6 6.61 74,300 501,652 MAXS GROUP MG HLDG 0.145 0.159 0.159 0.16 0.145 0.145 180,000 27,420 15.8 15.84 16.54 16.6 15.74 15.8 46,155,200 738,928,852 MONDE NISSIN SHAKEYS PIZZA 8.64 8.65 9 9 8.64 8.64 109,400 951,566 0.63 0.65 0.64 0.68 0.63 0.63 1,040,000 662,690 ROXAS AND CO 4.6 4.65 4.6 4.65 4.58 4.58 10,000 46,230 RFM CORP SWIFT FOODS 0.108 0.109 0.11 0.11 0.108 0.109 1,210,000 131,810 131.5 131.8 132.5 132.9 131.1 131.5 955,440 125,739,859 UNIV ROBINA VITARICH 0.73 0.74 0.73 0.74 0.73 0.74 1,197,000 882,290 47.95 48.2 48.45 48.5 48.2 48.2 600 29,030 CONCRETE A CONCRETE B 50 56 59.95 59.95 59 59 100,300 6,012,700 1.14 1.16 1.18 1.18 1.14 1.16 1,740,000 2,007,230 CEMEX HLDG EEI CORP 6.43 6.53 6.55 6.55 6.43 6.53 16,100 104,366 5.17 5.18 5.29 5.29 5.17 5.18 526,900 2,734,764 HOLCIM KEEPERS HLDG 1.48 1.49 1.5 1.52 1.49 1.49 42,967,000 64,452,430 MEGAWIDE 5.15 5.2 5.4 5.4 5.15 5.15 697,900 3,642,539 19.08 19.2 18.98 19.2 18.98 19.08 557,700 10,587,676 PHINMA TKC METALS 0.8 0.81 0.83 0.83 0.8 0.8 272,000 219,670 0.93 0.94 0.96 0.96 0.92 0.94 2,511,000 2,353,000 VULCAN INDL CROWN ASIA 1.7 1.71 1.71 1.71 1.7 1.7 75,000 127,900 1.45 1.53 1.46 1.55 1.45 1.45 63,000 92,580 EUROMED MABUHAY VINYL 4 4.29 4.18 4.29 4.15 4.29 21,000 87,460 5.69 5.76 5.85 5.85 5.78 5.78 31,600 183,319 PRYCE CORP CONCEPCION 20.55 21.45 21.45 21.45 20.55 20.55 700 14,550 GREENERGY 2.33 2.36 2.35 2.41 2.33 2.38 1,944,000 4,627,970 8.22 8.35 8.48 8.48 8.15 8.21 452,500 3,726,227 INTEGRATED MICR IONICS 0.71 0.74 0.72 0.72 0.71 0.71 61,000 43,380 5.57 5.99 5.88 5.88 5.8 5.8 30,800 180,455 PANASONIC SFA SEMICON 1.06 1.11 1.1 1.11 1.06 1.11 123,000 131,610 3.78 3.84 3.95 3.95 3.78 3.78 690,000 2,633,120 CIRTEK HLDG

-205,039,219 -2,725,000 -7,580,610 12,770 -1,604,975 -10,058,935 -10,711,390 19,992,835 50,790 -713,265 321,000 -413,920 -1,476,945 5,640 -2,467,730 5,424,006.00 -560,551.50 5,015,409 22,987,024 13,400 -208,636,948 -175,498 16,910 -23,250 -36,042,568 8,030 18,470.00 -1,479,211 -2,080 -862,943 3,816.00 -51,320 -1,700 -1,450 4,109,290 1,376,129 8,520 10,600 -379,600

HOLDING & FRIMS ABACORE CAPITAL AYALA CORP ABOITIZ EQUITY ALLIANCE GLOBAL AYALA LAND LOG ANSCOR ANGLO PHIL HLDG COSCO CAPITAL DMCI HLDG FILINVEST DEV GT CAPITAL HOUSE OF INV JG SUMMIT LODESTAR LOPEZ HLDG LT GROUP MABUHAY HLDG METRO PAC INV PRIME MEDIA REPUBLIC GLASS SYNERGY GRID SM INVESTMENTS SAN MIGUEL CORP SEAFRONT RES TOP FRONTIER WELLEX INDUS ZEUS HLDG

120 92 25.5 9.35 50.4 8.7 19.96 56.6 19.1 116.9 100.9 1.83 4.04 0.59 3.22 0.88 0.6 205

0.93 828 53.1 11.3 5.84 7.39 0.9 5.13 7.81 7.5 555.5 3.5 56.05 0.64 2.93 9.81 0.39 3.85 1.15 2.3 14.64 950 111.7 2.02 125 0.231 0.166

120.8 93 25.6 9.42 50.55 8.8 20 57.5 19.48 117.7 101 1.84 4.05 0.62 3.35 1.05 0.69 207

0.95 829 53.5 11.36 5.85 7.4 0.91 5.14 8.08 7.8 558.5 3.58 56.65 0.65 3.09 9.82 0.415 3.89 1.2 2.92 14.66 959.5 112.4 2.38 126 0.25 0.178

121 93.8 25.45 9.3 50.45 8.7 20 57.5 19.1 119.2 99 1.7 4.05 0.62 3.22 0.94 0.6 207

0.95 832 53.2 11.48 5.94 7.5 0.9 5.18 7.89 7.8 569 3.56 57 0.63 2.98 9.98 0.41 3.89 1.23 2.27 14.9 940 113 2.02 125 0.235 0.166

122.7 93.8 25.6 9.45 51 8.8 20.15 57.5 19.1 119.6 101.5 1.83 4.05 0.62 3.35 0.94 0.6 207

0.97 840 53.5 11.48 5.97 7.5 0.91 5.18 8.08 7.8 572 3.56 57 0.66 2.98 10.02 0.42 3.93 1.23 2.27 14.9 959.5 113.1 2.02 125.5 0.235 0.166

119.7 92 25.2 9.3 50.3 8.7 19.96 56.4 18.8 116.8 99 1.68 4.05 0.62 3.21 0.9 0.6 205

0.93 826 52.35 11.2 5.74 7.4 0.9 5.09 7.77 7.8 555 3.5 56 0.63 2.92 9.8 0.41 3.85 1.15 2.27 14.58 935.5 111 2.02 125 0.231 0.166

120 92 25.6 9.42 50.55 8.8 20 56.4 18.8 117.7 100.9 1.83 4.05 0.62 3.35 0.9 0.6 205

0.94 828 53.5 11.3 5.85 7.4 0.9 5.13 8.08 7.8 558.5 3.5 56.65 0.63 2.93 9.81 0.42 3.85 1.15 2.27 14.64 959.5 112.4 2.02 125 0.231 0.166

3,116,040 1,506,190 221,100 40,600 1,706,210 11,400 113,600 330 207,400 1,108,820 93,520 4,711,000 300,000 9,000 62,000 410,000 100,000 2,050

2,466,000 170,870 963,200 2,190,600 5,442,000 28,100 128,000 256,900 6,106,200 1,500 138,270 20,000 1,925,640 126,000 32,000 4,539,900 500,000 11,074,000 162,000 1,000 7,935,500 172,290 67,860 9,000 25,510 150,000 240,000

2,318,320 142,246,620 51,103,605 24,680,970 31,876,826 208,036 115,330 1,316,106 48,264,779 11,700 77,309,000 70,180 108,787,887 80,210 93,600 44,839,300 208,200 42,995,710 192,130 2,270 116,720,478 163,852,340 7,597,646 18,180 3,194,715 35,050 39,840

PROPERTY ARTHALAND CORP 0.62 0.63 0.62 0.62 0.62 0.62 288,000 178,560 AYALA LAND 35.45 35.8 35.55 35.8 35 35.8 5,915,800 210,224,795 0.98 1.02 0.98 1.03 0.98 0.98 74,000 72,650 ARANETA PROP AREIT RT 47.05 47.2 47 48 46 47.2 2,763,800 129,789,040 1.35 1.38 1.38 1.38 1.34 1.35 68,000 91,390 BELLE CORP CITYLAND DEVT 0.73 0.74 0.73 0.74 0.73 0.74 118,000 87,190 0.101 0.105 0.109 0.109 0.102 0.108 200,000 20,730 CROWN EQUITIES CEBU HLDG 6.1 6.6 6.06 6.11 6.06 6.1 9,800 59,620 2.86 2.87 2.83 2.87 2.81 2.87 567,000 1,610,110 CEB LANDMASTERS CENTURY PROP 0.395 0.4 0.395 0.405 0.395 0.4 2,210,000 873,200 DOUBLEDRAGON 7.02 7.04 7.28 7.29 6.85 7.02 2,350,400 16,551,774 1.78 1.79 1.81 1.81 1.79 1.79 7,643,000 13,732,780 DDMP RT DM WENCESLAO 6.91 6.92 6.91 6.92 6.8 6.92 262,000 1,808,360 0.26 0.27 0.26 0.26 0.26 0.26 280,000 72,800 EMPIRE EAST EVER GOTESCO 0.305 0.31 0.32 0.32 0.305 0.31 18,720,000 5,885,300 7.58 7.59 7.77 7.77 7.56 7.59 6,065,000 46,204,256 FILINVEST RT FILINVEST LAND 1.1 1.12 1.12 1.12 1.1 1.12 2,876,000 3,173,530 0.83 0.86 0.86 0.89 0.83 0.86 1,008,000 853,220 GLOBAL ESTATE 8990 HLDG 10.3 10.68 10.68 10.7 10.16 10.68 490,900 5,086,978 1.16 1.18 1.19 1.19 1.13 1.18 1,767,000 2,050,110 PHIL INFRADEV CITY AND LAND 0.9 0.92 0.94 0.94 0.9 0.9 57,000 52,280 MEGAWORLD 3.09 3.1 3.16 3.17 3.08 3.09 8,451,000 26,221,530 0.265 0.27 0.27 0.27 0.265 0.27 6,110,000 1,631,900 MRC ALLIED MREIT RT 18.28 18.3 18.3 18.32 18.2 18.3 3,307,100 60,417,048 0.495 0.5 0.52 0.53 0.495 0.495 11,589,000 5,835,995 PHIL ESTATES PRIMEX CORP 1.99 2 1.98 2.03 1.93 1.99 933,000 1,823,340 7.21 7.33 7.4 7.4 7.2 7.33 3,164,600 23,034,493 RL COMM RT ROBINSONS LAND 17.8 17.82 18.3 18.3 17.8 17.8 1,247,100 22,302,284 0.211 0.219 0.22 0.22 0.219 0.219 50,000 10,990 PHIL REALTY ROCKWELL 1.47 1.55 1.5 1.5 1.47 1.47 246,000 363,610 SHANG PROP 2.58 2.62 2.62 2.62 2.62 2.62 5,000 13,100 2.71 2.9 2.9 2.93 2.9 2.93 5,000 14,620 STA LUCIA LAND SM PRIME HLDG 35.55 36 35.85 36.1 35.5 36 4,785,800 171,749,740 3.65 3.78 3.67 3.78 3.67 3.78 6,000 22,130 VISTAMALLS SUNTRUST HOME 1.15 1.2 1.17 1.2 1.13 1.18 510,000 588,840 3.68 3.69 3.7 3.72 3.66 3.69 201,000 741,330 VISTA LAND

SERVICES ABS CBN 12.94 12.96 13 13.1 12.94 12.96 93,800 1,219,152 GMA NETWORK 13.5 13.52 13.76 13.8 13.5 13.5 758,600 10,300,588 0.41 0.44 0.435 0.445 0.405 0.445 170,000 73,500 MANILA BULLETIN MLA BRDCASTING 10.4 10.6 10.4 10.4 10.4 10.4 200 2,080 3,280 3,390 3,286 3,390 3,202 3,390 45,990 151,477,610 GLOBE TELECOM PLDT 1,690 1,691 1,699 1,699 1,666 1,690 73,635 124,229,415 0.075 0.076 0.078 0.081 0.074 0.075 288,180,000 21,959,900 APOLLO GLOBAL CONVERGE 31.85 32.1 32.4 32.4 31.7 31.85 8,993,600 288,095,695 2.72 2.78 2.85 2.85 2.67 2.72 892,000 2,454,300 DFNN INC DITO CME HLDG 5.77 5.78 6.15 6.23 5.75 5.77 7,148,500 42,165,661 1.52 1.53 1.54 1.55 1.51 1.52 480,000 729,640 NOW CORP 0.305 0.31 0.31 0.315 0.305 0.305 2,380,000 727,500 TRANSPACIFIC BR PHILWEB 1.87 1.88 1.89 1.89 1.81 1.87 110,000 203,860 7.7 7.79 7.61 7.85 7.61 7.8 2,900 22,582 2GO GROUP ASIAN TERMINALS 13.9 14 13.9 14 13.9 13.9 5,800 80,790 1.63 1.67 1.64 1.68 1.62 1.63 142,000 231,190 CHELSEA CEBU AIR 43.05 43.2 44.15 44.5 43.05 43.05 152,000 6,657,595 195 197.9 199.6 199.9 195 197.9 748,710 147,837,824 INTL CONTAINER LORENZO SHIPPNG 0.91 0.96 0.91 0.91 0.91 0.91 24,000 21,840 5.37 5.4 5.65 5.66 5.4 5.4 1,609,400 8,908,188 MACROASIA METROALLIANCE A 1.22 1.37 1.31 1.37 1.22 1.37 20,000 25,720 HARBOR STAR 0.87 0.9 0.9 0.9 0.88 0.88 520,000 461,460 1.42 1.46 1.41 1.47 1.41 1.45 94,000 136,420 ACESITE HOTEL DISCOVERY WORLD 1.92 1.98 1.98 1.98 1.93 1.93 103,000 200,790 0.47 0.48 0.47 0.48 0.47 0.48 220,000 104,600 WATERFRONT IPEOPLE 7.4 7.47 7.4 7.4 7.4 7.4 1,600 11,840 0.345 0.35 0.355 0.355 0.35 0.35 1,080,000 378,200 STI HLDG BERJAYA 6.85 6.9 6.85 7.21 6.6 6.9 322,400 2,224,776 6.9 6.93 7.04 7.12 6.9 6.9 7,810,500 54,383,599 BLOOMBERRY PACIFIC ONLINE 1.82 1.98 1.98 1.98 1.8 1.82 214,000 391,990 LEISURE AND RES 1.48 1.53 1.51 1.53 1.5 1.53 140,000 211,060 0.82 0.83 0.85 0.85 0.82 0.83 238,000 197,360 PH RESORTS GRP PREMIUM LEISURE 0.425 0.43 0.44 0.44 0.43 0.43 970,000 420,200 0.68 0.69 0.71 0.71 0.68 0.69 104,536,000 72,067,360 ALLDAY ALLHOME 9.98 10 9.68 10 9.66 10 1,250,400 12,401,036 1.43 1.44 1.44 1.44 1.42 1.43 474,000 676,910 METRO RETAIL PUREGOLD 39.1 40 40.4 40.5 39.1 40 578,200 23,073,530 63.3 63.5 63.9 64 63 63.5 83,460 5,297,668.50 ROBINSONS RTL PHIL SEVEN CORP 88.75 92 92.9 92.9 88.65 90 1,050 93,871 1.13 1.14 1.15 1.16 1.13 1.14 610,000 699,010 SSI GROUP WILCON DEPOT 31.3 31.5 31.05 31.9 31.05 31.3 4,816,800 151,270,780 EASYCALL 4.81 5.68 4.86 4.86 4.85 4.85 11,500 55,870 7 7.02 7.04 7.04 7.02 7.02 8,400 59,010 IPM HLDG MEDILINES - 1.61 1.99 2.12 1.61 1.61 387,434,000 692,790,000 0.61 0.62 0.64 0.64 0.61 0.62 7,715,000 4,815,860 PRMIERE HORIZON

MINING & OIL

Bond Funds

ATRAM Corporate Bond Fund, Inc. -a

www.businessmirror.com.ph

17.11%

Primarily invested in foreign currency securities

ATOK 5.56 5.6 5.75 5.75 5.58 5.6 8,400 47,005 1.35 1.37 1.36 1.38 1.35 1.35 6,717,000 9,132,250 APEX MINING ATLAS MINING 6.01 6.05 6.05 6.15 6 6.05 1,096,200 6,633,044 4.84 5 5.03 5.05 4.8 4.84 1,274,700 6,171,605 BENGUET A BENGUET B 4.81 5.45 4.75 4.75 4.75 4.75 273,000 1,296,750 0.27 0.285 0.27 0.27 0.27 0.27 250,000 67,500 COAL ASIA HLDG CENTURY PEAK 2.6 2.64 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.6 10,000 26,000 5.15 5.44 5.44 5.44 5.44 5.44 100 544 DIZON MINES FERRONICKEL 2.09 2.1 2.06 2.11 2.05 2.09 992,000 2,054,530 0.195 0.216 0.194 0.194 0.194 0.194 10,000 1,940 GEOGRACE LEPANTO A 0.125 0.127 0.125 0.127 0.124 0.127 2,030,000 253,920 MANILA MINING A 0.0086 0.0087 0.0087 0.0087 0.0087 0.0087 2,000,000 17,400 1.12 1.16 1.18 1.2 1.1 1.13 2,013,000 2,297,850 MARCVENTURES NIHAO 1 1.04 1.01 1.01 1.01 1.01 104,000 105,040 5.07 5.08 5.12 5.12 5 5.08 1,010,700 5,113,442 NICKEL ASIA OMICO CORP 0.305 0.32 0.3 0.32 0.3 0.32 260,000 80,100 0.72 0.74 0.73 0.73 0.72 0.72 1,320,000 954,920 ORNTL PENINSULA PX MINING 4.82 4.9 4.96 4.96 4.82 4.89 39,000 188,460 21.55 22 22.35 23 21.55 21.55 1,334,900 29,381,040 SEMIRARA MINING ACE ENEXOR 27.7 27.75 29 29.45 27.55 27.75 638,500 17,955,460 ORNTL PETROL A 0.01 0.011 0.01 0.011 0.01 0.011 55,700,000 559,500 0.011 0.012 0.011 0.012 0.011 0.012 385,800,000 4,629,500 ORNTL PETROL B PHILODRILL 0.0088 0.009 0.009 0.009 0.009 0.009 3,000,000 27,000 6.3 6.34 6.38 6.39 6.25 6.34 307,600 1,943,628 PXP ENERGY

PREFFERED HOUSE PREF B 99.6 100 100 100 100 100 100 10,000 HOUSE PREF A 100.5 101 100.5 101 100.5 100.5 55,840 5,629,685 507 510 505 507 505 507 420 212,180 ALCO PREF D AC PREF B2R 501.5 510 502 520 501 510 3,830 1,944,800 100.6 100.9 100.8 101.5 100.8 100.9 21,520 2,171,703 BRN PREF A CEB PREF 43.5 44.45 43.6 44.45 43.5 44.45 5,200 229,060 102.6 103 103 103 103 103 100 10,300 CPG PREF A DD PREF 100.7 101.8 100.8 101 100.8 101 11,100 1,120,900 1,010 1,014 1,010 1,010 1,010 1,010 885 893,850 GTCAP PREF A GTCAP PREF B 1,020 1,040 1,030 1,030 1,014 1,014 5,215 5,318,910 JFC PREF A 998 1,010 998 998 998 998 20 19,960 1,015 1,020 1,015 1,015 1,015 1,015 2,950 2,994,250 JFC PREF B MWIDE PREF 2A 96 99.9 100 100 96 100 15,300 1,489,380 98.2 101.1 101.1 101.1 98 98 15,010 1,478,617.50 MWIDE PREF 2B MWIDE PREF 4 99 100.5 100 100.5 100 100.5 1,210 121,050 103.5 104.9 104 105 104 104.9 5,760 601,903 PNX PREF 3B PNX PREF 4 998 1,000 1,014 1,014 1,000 1,000 655 655,180 1,057 1,100 1,100 1,100 1,100 1,100 415 456,500 PCOR PREF 3A PCOR PREF 3B 1,100 1,124 1,084 1,122 1,082 1,122 14,830 16,047,580 1.5 1.99 1.55 1.55 1.5 1.5 2,000 3,050 SFI PREF SMC PREF 2F 79.3 79.6 79.6 79.6 79.6 79.6 25,000 1,990,000 SMC PREF 2J 77 77.2 77 77 77 77 5,320 409,640 76 76.5 75.5 76.4 75.5 76.4 26,800 2,035,460 SMC PREF 2K

PHIL. DEPOSITARY RECEIPTS ABS HLDG PDR 12.2 12.5 12.2 12.2 12.2 12.2 900 10,980 GMA HLDG PDR 13.06 13.12 13.5 13.5 13.04 13.12 395,400 5,190,716

WARRANTS TECH WARRANT 0.81 0.82 0.85 0.87 0.8 0.81 1,306,000 1,064,960

-17,460 -17,489,010 -10,306,989 6,422,338 -2,264,430 136,180 764,176 7,616,776 8,370 22,304,267 -11,740 -5,417,127 -17,761,310 300,886 38,894,160 -2,502,924 6,200 59,475,980 -5,856,715 -30,300.00 -263,530 -106,650 -2,640,207 260,540 0 22,797,272 -1,973,310 48,858.00 -617,240.00 2,860 -1,691,960 29,650 20,961,916 10,969,109 731,322 -334,180 22,485,205 -18,350 -3,630 42,139,560 57,294,590 322,060 -15,429,100 57,070 -3,132,782 -1,520 70,150 56,990 -612,555 -24,771,054 -21,840 899,589 1,950 360,500 -18,669,468 37,600 101,110 19,255,580 6,126,349 -1,161,005 -556,072.50 -7,240.50 32,920.00 35,825,050 -7,521,610 192,780 -1,380 26,000 98,260.00 7,910 101,000 1,462,602 9,000 -24,300 -10,432,330 - 5,100 133,180 39,640 10,000 16,500 - -10,980 -4,879,528 8,000

-2.04% SMALL & MEDIUM ENTERPRISES ALTUS PROP 18.5 18.56 18 18.5 18 18.5 217,500 4,006,052 -7,400 ITALPINAS 2.34 2.35 2.47 2.47 2.32 2.35 1,651,000 3,906,420 24,500

2.72 2.76 2.88 2.89 2.68 2.76 6,298,000 17,365,070 -954,930.00 MERRYMART 1 - Renaming was approved by the SEC last July 8, 2021 (formerly, Sun Life Prosperity Money Market Fund, Inc.).

EXHANGE TRADE FUNDS

"While we endeavor to keep the information accurate, the Philippine Investment Funds Association (PIFA) and its members make no warranties as to the correctness of the FIRST METRO ETF 108.5 108.9 109 109.2 108.2 108.5 23,610 2,565,095 675,586 newspaper’s publication and assume no liability or responsibility for any error or omissions. You may visit http://www. pifa.com.ph to see the latest NAVPS/NAVPU." ALFM Global Multi-Asset Income Fund Inc. -a,d

$0.96

-2.04% n.a. n.a.

a - NAVPS as of the previous banking day. b - NAVPS as of two banking days ago. c - Listed in the PSE. d - in Net Asset Value per Unit (NAVPU).

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Entrepreneur

Mica F. Tan as Mentee, Mentor, and Mentee

M

ica F. Tan was born 29 years ago. But she is now more than 500 years old. This is if one adds up the ages of three people she considers her top mentors and those of others who have influenced her in her business of helping businesses. But if one were to consider the entrepreneurs she has influenced and who moved from inspirations she has shared, Mica would now be thousands of years in age.

At 25, Mica built MFT Group of Companies, a private equity firm that started with a firm supplying high-value medical equipment to local medical centers. Its roster of companies now includes food firms operating in key Asian cities and Spain, fintech and shared space and real property, among others.

Now a sought-after mentor for entrepreneurs, Mica lists her father, a cancer specialist; her mom, an entrepreneur jeweller; and a family friend who was her late father’s business partner, as the figures whose advice and influence gave her the early confidence to set sail in business.

Mica took the limelight a few years back in a reality tv show as one of successful entrepreneurs who’d boost promising business proposals. She brought to the show the valuable habit of learning, a conscious pursuer of learning, at that.

At the helm of MFT Group, Mica surrounds herself with books but she continues to leaf through three particular ones which are prominently placed at her office—“The Obstacle is the Way”

by Ryan Holiday, Jose Leviste’s “If the Philippines Had a Lee Kuan Yew,” and “The Outsiders: Eight Unconventional CEOs and Their Radically Rational Blueprint for Success” by William Thorndike.

Curiosity about the world around her is a trait fueled by her father in her growing up years. She recalls that her dad, who introduced brachytherapy to the Philippines as a method of cancer treatment, would bring her to the hospitals and inform her of the benefits of proper equipment.

Mica was set to pursue her finance studies in New York but, wanting to get immediately into the game and learn hands on, she stayed put and got going on her own. In the early years, she attests, she continued with the tutelage of uncles who were in business and with a stockbroker mentor whom she befriended in an “excursion” at the stock exchange as a young student who cut her college class to be there where the action was.

That curiosity is well-channeled with her management team who provides the Group the necessary expertise in diverse fields.

MFT Group currently focuses its resources on three main sectors —health care, F & B, and financial services. There is an articulated preference for partnership with family corporations, taking into account flexibility in welcoming innovations. Geographical diversification picks up as a route with new deals in the offing. “This gives a balance to the company. Some markets may perform better than others,” she adds.

With her team, new perspectives arise which eventually lead to new approaches.

“New perspectives can bring exceptional results,” Mica states. Wearing a mentor’s hat, she puts forward the importance of alignment among team members. “Carefully build a select group around you who share the same values—this is your own lifetime counsel,” she states.

These days, a team would have executives from different “generations”. with generations referred here to include those characterized by the kind of technology available to them. “We’re multigenerational,” she states, adding that it is not her style to latch labels but takes the team as one. “A team is a team and we learn from each other.”

She constantly poses questions, she says : “There’s never nothing going on.

Every moment is an opportunity to discipline the mind and get better in asking questions.” She prompts young people to reflect and ask themselves : “What questions do you ask daily?”

Behind the podium, or with her image pinned onscreen by audiences in virtual conferences, Mica addresses a host of queries on courage, leadership, start-up financing, strategic thinking, and even on dealing with naysayers.

Her top 3 on going forward on their journey as entrepreneurs include courage in taking the leap and moving outside the herd, humility, a virtue that covers being able to ask for help when needed, and appreciating risks and uncertainties that accompany business ventures.

Importantly, she advises listeners to keep their dreams close at hand. “Speak about it. Don’t let go. Believers will come.”

BusinessMirror

Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug • Wednesday, December 8, 2021 B3

YOUNG ENTREP TURNS STUDENT VENTURE INTO AN EMERGING E-COMMERCE EMPIRE

Kimstore owner sets example of biz heir who chose to rise on her own

By Roderick L. Abad

U

@rodrik_28

Contributor

NLIKE other heirs who just wait for the turnover of their family business to them, entrepreneur Kim Lato, at a young age more than a decade ago, did not wait for a comfortable “career” in her dad’s textile business, but rather worked hard to put up an e-commerce platform on her own. It all began out of her passion for photography, a blogging hobby, and a challenging online experience that led her to dream of building an empire like an Amazon.

“I was looking for a particular lens in Amazon,” Lato, who was still a sophomore student at the De La Salle University (DLSU) in Manila back then, recalled her own experience with the online global marketplace giant.

She realized that a lot of electronic gadgets there were mostly sold by foreigners with unaffordable price tags for many Filipinos. “The thought came to mind: Can I do this but with gadgets available here in the country?” she wondered.

This convinced her to establish a local online shop that could give them premium gadgets at reasonable costs.

Named after her, Kimstore is now a 15-year-old tech and gadget online shop that specializes in on-demand

delivery of smart phones, laptops, cameras, other gadgets, and their accessories.

Establishing the business

AS a headstart, Kimstore was incepted with the help of the now-defunct social networking site, Multiply.

“There were a lot of inquiries online. I also received support from my professors and classmates. However, there were no sales,” Lato said.

Her very first customer was her orgmate, Zyla Quiambao, who first bought a gadget in her retail store on the web. From then on, her sales increased 10 times.

Because she’s juggling between her studies and newly-built enterprise, she adjusted her schedule to do

Kimstore owner, entrepreneur Kim Lato, in her various moods and poses during pictorial.

both. She narrated: “Morning, I take all the classes, but in the afternoon, I was a business owner.”

With her skyrocketing sales, she soon personally do meet ups and showed her products to her patrons while having snacks at a fast-food chain beside the DLSU. “A lot of people were seeing the stock right there, and they were buying as they see the stock,” Lato said.

Personal touch

WHILE the “brick-and-mortar” stores were still the “go-to” place for buyers back then, she made Kimstore quite unique in terms of providing a personal experience to every customer. To bring it closer to every household, she provided the vital information when it comes to buying or purchasing gadgets.

She, likewise, offered money-back guarantees and personal consultations during meet-ups.

DTI reminds online shopping sites to only sell PS, ICC-certified consumer products

T

he Department of Trade and Industry’s Consumer Protection Group (DTI-CPG), through the Bureau of Philippine Standards (DTI-BPS), reminds e-commerce platforms to ensure that all products under the DTI mandatory certification that are offered for sale in their sites should bear the Philippine Standard (PS) mark or the Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) sticker. The call was prompted by the increasing reports and complaints received by the DTI on the influx of uncertified products being sold online.

Republic Act 4109 or the Standards Law and RA 7394 or the Consumer Act of the Philippines mandates the DTI-BPS to implement the Philippine Standard (PS) Quality and/or Safety Certification Mark Licensing Scheme and the Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) Certification Scheme.

Under these certification schemes,

Back on the road

mandatory products are not allowed to be distributed in the Philippine market without the necessary PS mark or ICC sticker. Manufacturers and importers of these products are required to secure the PS License or the ICC certificate, respectively, prior to selling or distribution of their products in the country.

The present list contains 87 products under the mandatory certification schemes which includes household appliances such as air conditioners, electric fans, and television sets; lighting and wiring devices such as self-ballasted LED lamps, circuit breakers, PVC electrical tapes, and extension cord sets; steel products such as deformed steel bars and equal-leg steel angle bars; plastic pipes and ceramic products such as pipes for potable water supply and sanitary wares; cement and plywood; chemical products; and automotive related products such as

Photo shows Angkas Motorcycle Taxi Driver and part-time entrepreneur Christopher Navarro Caba performing his regular task of ferrying passengers, and occasional merchandise delivery, around Metro Manila destinations. Motorcycle taxi operators and riders are urging the government to grant the needed transport franchise to their business to fully legitimize their operations, as the capital city loosens mobility curbs amid a significant drop in Covid-19 cases around the country. Nonie Reyes

pneumatic tires, automotive safety glass, seat belts, and child restraint systems (CRS). The complete list of products may be accessed through the BPS Standards and Conformance Portal, www.bps.dti. gov.ph (Direct Link: https://bit.ly/BPSmandatoryList).

Online shopping platforms fall within the ambit of Section 3.5 of the DTI’s Department Administrative Order (DAO) 2, Series of 2007, which provides that: “Importers, distributors, wholesalers, retailers and those who offer for sale a product covered by mandatory product certification shall sell, or offer for sale only such products that complied with the requisite Philippine National Standard and with the required PS Mark, or with a valid ICC in the case of imported products.”

“We remind online sellers and operators of e-commerce platforms in the country to ensure compliance with the requirements of the aforementioned laws, rules, and regulations. Failure to comply with the requirements set forth in relevant issuances shall constrain the DTI to undertake necessary legal action against these sellers,” warns DTI-CPG Undersecretary, Atty. Ruth B. Castelo.

The DTI-BPS is the National Standards Body authorized to promulgate Philippine National Standards. PNS are voluntary in nature and may be used as reference by any interested parties. The conformance to PNS or parts thereof becomes mandatory only when the same is used as reference in Technical Regulations issued by regulatory authorities such as the DTI. To know more on standards and technical regulations in relation to product quality and safety, please visit the DTIBPS web site at www.bps.dti.gov.ph or call (02) 7751-4748 and (02) 7791-3126 or send an e-mail to bps@dti.gov.ph. Also follow our official Facebook page to be updated with the latest news and activities of the DTI-BPS.

Like other businesses, her’s also faces risks. Back in the day, her team would frequently carry almost P50,000 cash around Tondo, where their main office was located, braving the pickpockets and all sorts of thieves lurking around.

There was also a moment when they were not permitted to go inside the malls for their meet-ups, which created doubt among their customers. So she established different pic kup poi nt s, w h ic h a re now 15 in total, in various locations in Metro Manila.

Major transition

WHEN Multiply closed down in 2013, Facebook came in—thanks to this that Lato had found a new platform for her business.

“A lot of friends in the industry helped especially in building my web site, and I transitioned over to Facebook,” she said, while citing that she contacted her database of customers at that time. “I texted them one by one. I informed them that we shifted over to Facebook.”

Inquiries outside of Metro Manila then came in two years later.

So she tied up with a courier that provided a cash on delivery service. She complemented this with the training of her employees on how to give excellent service to customers to continue gain their loyalty.

Success has continued amid the pandemic. Since last year, more and more people who could not leave their homes due to t he lockdown have turned to K i mstore for delivery of their precious gadgets.

Seeing that the change in consumer behavior after the pandemic will dictate the demand and the direction of the market, she’s not complacent of what her business has so far achieved. Lato is investing in digital tools such as CRM, accounting software, analytics, web infrastructure, as well as partnering with a good logistics partner.

What’s next?

TRULY a maverick in her field, giving back is the “next step” for the Kimstore owner.

With her passion in entrepreneurship, e-commerce and women empowerment. Lato plans to conduct masterclasses and other engagements for women start-up owners and newbie business executives, building a stronger community for her professional peers and siblings in the e-commerce space in the future.

“I really want to take this opportunity to share my knowledge, time, blessings, and really help the ecommerce community and empower women.” she stressed.

SB Corp widens loan program for MSMEs

Small Business Corp.

C

EBU CITY—Small Business Corp. (SBCorp), the financing arm of the Department of Trade and Industy (DTI), has expanded its Sustaining Trade and Access to Primary Food and Link to Enterprises (STAPLES) program.

Under STAPLES, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) of fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) companies can have access to collateral and interest-free loans from SBCorp for their working capital requirements.

SB Corp, led by executive vice president and chief operating officer, Santiago Lim, recently signed a memorandum of agreement with officials of partner firm Alaska Milk Corp.

“This partnership with SBCorp could not have come at a better time and we are very positive that it will impact the MSME players in the food supply chain affected by

the pandemic,” DTI Undersecretary for regional operations and acting chair of SBCorp, Blesila Lantayona, said in a news statement released on Monday.

STAPLES aims to prevent closure of business operations of MSME retail outlets, especially small community retailers (sari-sari stores), and enable target MSME stores to retain or rehire their employees.

“We envision our MSMEs to become an even stronger force as the economy recovers from the slowdown in the past months, by way of increased access to retrofitted financing that is meant to give them the needed boost to buy more business inventories and to reabsorb their personnel,” SBCorp chief executive officer and president, Ma. Luna Cacanando, said.

In October, another FMCG company, Monde Nissin, signed up as a partner of STAPLES. PNA

Banking&Finance BusinessMirror

Wednesday, December 8, 2021 • Editor: Dennis D. Estopace

B4

DOF-attached agency spared from paying dividends to NG

C

By Samuel P. Medenilla

@sam_medenilla

ITING the need to give greater financial leeway to the Philippine Guarantee Corp.

(PhilGuarantee) to perform its mandate, President Duterte exempted the government-owned and controlled corporation (GOCC) from paying dividend to the national government (NG) for fiscal years 2019 and 2020.

In his Executive Order 153, Duterte decided to adjust the rate

of annual net earnings that PhilGuarantee must remit to the NG

from 50 percent to zero percent during the said years. The President based his decision upon the recommendation of the Department of Finance (DOF), PhilGuarantee’s parent agency.

The order is only applicable to PhilGuarantee for CYs 2019 and 2020, the president said.

By law, specifically Republic Act 7656, GOCCs like PhilGuarantee are required to declare and remit at least 50 percent of their annual net earnings as cash, stock, or property dividends to the NG. Duterte said his new EO will allow PhilGuarantee to better do its role of facilitating and promoting “socio-economic development through provision of credit guarantees” to priority sectors.

The issuance also aims to allow the GOCC to maintain its “capital

position” and comply with regulations of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

An agency attached to the DOF, PhilGuarantee provides “development financing” through provision of credit guarantee to the following: trade and investments; exports; infrastructures; energy; tourism; agriculture; business and/or modernization; housing; micro-scale, small and medium enterprises; and, other priority sectors of the economy and regional development.

PhilGuarantee announced last August it was able to provide guarantees to loans in the agriculture sector worth P3.5 billion during the first half of the year.

The GOCC said these debts were incurred by 35,369 small farmers and fishermen.

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Treasury rejects all bids for reissued 10-yr bonds

By Tyrone Jasper C. Piad @Tyronepiad

T

HE Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) rejected all the bids for the reissued 10-year P20-billion Treasury bonds (T-bonds) on Tuesday as investors sought higher bid rates despite inflation decelerating for the third consecutive month.

If the financial instruments were fully awarded, the bid rates would have averaged 5.071 percent, which is 5.9-basis points lower than the 5.130 percent in the previous auction.

This is also higher than the secondary benchmark rates from the PHP Bloomberg Valuation (BVAL) Service of 4.9622 percent.

Total bids reached P42.437 billion.

The securities, which have a coupon rate of 4 percent, are set to mature on July 22, 2031.

National Treasurer Rosalia V. De Leon told reporters they fully rejected bids as they “are still high” despite the lower inflation.

On Tuesday, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported that consumer prices slowed down to 4.2 percent in November from 4.6 percent the previous months due to lower prices of vegetables and fish.

This month, the BTr set the domestic borrowing program at P70 billion, which is much lower than the P200 billion in November.

Broken down, the Treasury is set to borrow from the local debt market a total of P30 billion through Treasury Bills (T-bills) and P40 billion via T-bonds.

The national government’s outstanding debt hit P11.97 trillion as of end-October this year, which already surpassed the expected debt level of P11.73 trillion for 2021.

Last month, the Treasury raked in P360 billion from its latest offering of 5.5-year Retail Treasury Bonds. Of the amount, P330.5 billion and P29.5 billion were raised in new money and through the bond exchange, respectively.

Young Pinoys investing in insurance, cryptocurrency China, UK investors fund

By Rizal Raoul S. Reyes @brownindio

R

EGARDED by some as risky, cryptocurrency are seducing Millennials and the Gen-Z demographic population set, a top executive of an insurer told the BusinessMirror.

Jean Olivia De Castro, head of the Fixed Income of Manulife Investment Management and Trust Corp., told the BusinessMirror that 60 percent of the respondents in their latest study said they are engaged in investing in cryptocurrency.

The report is titled, “Know Your Ys and Zs: A closer look at the financial and mental well-being of Filipino Millennials and Generation Z in the time of COVID-19.” It was based on a survey of 500 respondents across the Philippines between April and May this year.

De Castro said they conducted the poll to further understand the attitudes, behaviors and habits of younger generations toward finance and personal well-being, as well as actions they are taking to achieve financial independence and improve mental wellness.

De Castro said Millennials— those born between 1981 and 1996—and the Gen Z—those who succeeded Millennials—also prioritize getting an insurance. She said this bodes well for companies like Manulife as their market base expands.

Likewise, buying insurance also enables the youth to avail of the products at more affordable rates, De Castro added.

“It is also noteworthy for us that both generations are also curious about cryptocurrency,” she told the BusinessMirror adding that cryptocurrency is the third among the investment products these demographic sets “are most interested in.”

De Castro noted that more than 40 percent of Filipino Millennials also own pension and retirement products while 29 percent own Unit Investment Trust Funds (UITFs).

Being digital natives, de Castro said it is not surprising that a big number of Millennials and Gen Z are comfortable investing in cryptocurrency. They grew up with the Internet as a constant companion and their reliance on their handheld

De Castro

devices was heightened by lockdown measures, she added.

“Being a digital product, it [cryptocurrency] is really right up their alley,” De Castro told the BusinessMirror.

However, she said financial advisers also caution Millennials and Gen Z “to take more time to understand the risk that comes with it as [cryptocurrency] is subject to more volatility compared to traditional investment funds.”

De Castro said the firm urges investors in cryptocurrency to

speak with a financial advisor who can guide them to understand and guide them on the unpredictability of crypto.

“It is an unregulated type of currency whose value is more influenced by speculation, leading to more volatility. It’s really important that they educate themselves in order to protect themselves from the whims of the market,” she told the BusinessMirror.

De Castro added the youth factor is one of the reasons why both Millennials and Gen Z stay invested in cryptocurrency.

Time is on their side, she said, adding that members of these demographic sets can afford to lose a little money on their younger days. And they still can have 20 years, 30 years and 40 years down the road to be able to recover, De Castro added.

“It’s opposed to if you’re nearing retirement age and that’s when you get hit with a loss; and it’s harder to recover from that,” she told the BusinessMirror. “That’s why, typically, the risk profile of the younger ones is generally more aggressive; and they do get to these riskier assets.”

South African digital bank

R

OSEBANK , Johannesburg , South Africa-headquartered Tyme Bank Ltd. announced securing funds from China and United Kingdom-based investors.

In a statement on Tuesday, Tyme said it has raised $180 million in capital from Chinese multinational technology conglomerate holding company Tencent Holdings Ltd. and UK’s development finance institution and impact investor CDC Group plc.

Tyme (take your money everywhere) said it is set to use the fresh capital to fund and grow operations in South Africa and to fund GOTyme in the Philippines. The firm has secured a digital bank license in partnership with the Gokongwei Group.

The first part of Tyme’s Series-B raise concluded earlier this year when it secured $110 million from Apis Growth Fund II, a private equity fund managed

by Apis Partners LLP and Gokongwei’s JG Summit Holdings (JG Summit) Inc. In August this year, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) gave a digital banking license to GOtyme, a partnership between the Gokongwei Group and Tyme.

The collaboration is Tyme’s first expansion into Asia.

Coen Jonker, co-founder of Tyme,

DOF urges DOLE to use See? There seems to be no end tech in payout system I

By Bianca Cuaresma @BcuaresmaBM

F

INANCE Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez III is urging the department headed by Secretary Silvestre H. Bello III to use digital technology in building a database and payout system for the country’s labor force.

The chief of the Department of Finance (DOF) said the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) can learn from, and build on the success, of the automated Small Business Wage Subsidy (SBWS) program.

The program was implemented by the DOF, its attached agency the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) and the Social Security System (SSS) after the Duterte administration imposed lockdown measures last year. The program aimed “to quickly deliver wage subsidies to more than three million employees with zero face-to-face contact with these beneficiaries.”

“The program is instructive. It shows the potential of building databases and building payout systems in helping us improve our resiliency in the face of calamities—whether these come in the form of pandemics or severe weather events,” Dominguez said during an event commemorating the labor department’s 88th anniversary.

“With the completion of the

National ID system, we should see the digitalization of government services and private sector transactions advance by leaps and bounds,” Dominguez added.

The DOF chief thanked the DOLE “for being on the frontlines during the most difficult months of the pandemic, conserving jobs and fostering employment growth.’

“As we accelerate our recovery, I urge you to intensify your programs to help our workers cope with the pandemic and prepare them for the new labor demands of the digital economy,” Dominguez said.

Following the pandemic, the Finance secretary said they are “working hard to provide job opportunities and eventually absorb our laid-off workers into the economy in the shortest possible time.”

“We are taking a proactive stance on the procurement of more vaccines for booster shots next year as well as for inoculating our children.

We are determined to roll back this pandemic for good,” Dominguez said.

“As our massive vaccination program unfolds, we should be better able to contain outbreaks in infections even as new variants of this virus emerge. As we transform our mindset from fighting a pandemic to managing an endemic virus, we should be able to restore the vigor of our economy in due time,” he added.

N my article last October 19, 2021, in this same column entitled “Covid-19—Quo Vadis,” (https:// businessmirror.com.ph/2021/10/19/ covid-19-quo-vadis/) I pointed out that there is no guarantee this virus will not evolve into another variant. I mentioned this even before the omicron variant became a headline or was known by the world. In that article I also wrote this virus will be living with us in the coming years; the world lacking a silver bullet against it.

However, just like any pandemic before this, booster shots should be given to protect everybody. Further, to prevent mutations, there is a need to encourage and campaign for more vaccines to be administered, especially to the unvaccinated.

This virus mutated because it has a human host to transfer to: the unvaccinated. With herd immunity, no new variant can arise because it will die without a host or will become less deadly or benign.

In a blog sponsored by ING Bank N.V. (think.ing.com), people raise two questions: Is this variant more transmissible than Delta? How resistant is the new variant to vaccines and preexisting immunity?

The answers to these questions will determine the future scenario for our economy. The INB Bank analysis blog site paints three scenarios. The first is that the omicron variant will not greatly affect the economy because it is not easily transmissible (as the early signs show) and not deadly and vaccines are effective in protecting the inoculated against this variant. This

Finex free enterprise Wilma Inventor-Miranda means the economy will continue on its recovery path.

The second scenario is that this variant can be transmissible and vaccines are not as strong in protecting against this variant but not serious as to cause death. For the economy, growth will be a little slower as it was hoped to be before this variant came into the picture.

The third scenario is that the omicron variant will be very infectious and vaccines are not strong enough to provide immunity. Seriously-ill patients will once again crowd hospitals.

Quarantines will affect the economy heavily but not as heavy as in December 2020.

There is a new terminology for a new economy as a result of this variant and it is called “omicronomics.” Countries are waiting for the possible result of this new variant to the economy. But one thing for sure, the economy can no longer afford for longer quarantines and people are tired of waiting.

Wearing masks and frequent washing of hands with social distancing is still necessary to prevent spreading of this virus. Booster shots are also needed to strengthen immunity and

of course taking care of one’s health to help make one’s immunity formidable against the raging spread of this variant if this is really infectious— contrary to early signs that this is not easily transmissible.

It is important that rich countries exert every effort to have less-developed countries attain herd immunity.

We also heard of countries where there is an abundance of vaccines and yet people are vehemently against it and, worse, are not even observing safety protocols such as wearing of masks and social distancing.

Globalization makes the virus travel faster before we can even recognize that there is a variant that has mutated due to the ease of travel. As the virus travel around the world and attach itself to the unvaccinated for instance, it “reinvented “itself – a term I got from economist.com. Since China is known to impose tighter restrictions on business travel, this will cause further disruption to this country’s economy and, as a result, the supply chain will be greatly affected too.

I should say that while globalization and travel lead to innovation, the virus as it travels too, goes through further innovation by mutating itself into a new variant. Hopefully, there will be no more lockdowns. Other countries look at the new variant as not so harmful to the economy but nevertheless already reduced their gross domestic product growth forecast by the end of the year by 1 percent.

My personal opinion is that, new businesses, new strategies and new innovations crop up during the

said the successful capital raising is a “clear vote of confidence” in their digital banking offering and leadership teams in South Africa, Singapore and the Philippines.

“Tyme’s global footprint now includes a product development and engineering hub in Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam and banking businesses in South Africa and the Philippines,” Jonker was quoted in the statement as saying.

“We have successfully attracted a team of skilled people, which includes over two hundred engineers and established strategy, business development, data, analytics and Artificial Intelligence [AI] functions in our global headquarters in Singapore.”

Tyme said their strategy for the Philippines is “to embed digital banking in people’s everyday lives and make it an integral part of shopping and business experiences.”

“This is particularly important in a country with an unbanked population of over 70 percent. The build-phase is currently underway in the Philippines and Tyme is on track to launch in the third quarter of 2022. It is aiming to leverage its partnership with the Gokongwei Group,” the bank said. Bianca Cuaresma

pandemic because of the change in lifestyle. If there are no further lockdowns, businesses will continue to recover—maybe slower as forecasted a month ago—but certainly will be recovering even at a slow pace. People will continue to shop online, perform online business transactions but also continue to limit their travels and gatherings for the meantime that this Covid-19 continues to mutate until it weakens itself.

With new ways of coping up during this pandemic, people learn to be resilient and prudent realizing that the future can be uncertain. Therefore, one must be able to provide for contingencies of the possible risks, including economic and health risks like what this pandemic had exposed people and businesses to. There are many lessons learned during the pandemic and, as a famous quote

by George Santayana states: “those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.”

In other words, if we do not learn from the experiences this pandemic taught us–such as setting the right priorities, be moderate in the way we spend our time and resources–we would not only waste the precious lessons taught us by this pandemic.

If we go on with reckless living, we will have regrets later in life.

Wilma Miranda is chairman of the Finex Media Affairs committee, managing partner of Inventor, Miranda & Associates, CPAs and member of the Board of Directors of KPS Outsourcing Inc. The views she expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the opinion of these institutions.

Image BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Editor: Gerard S. Ramos

• Wednesday, December 8, 2021

B5

PHOTO BY SAULO MOHANA ON UNSPLASH

NEW CABIN EXPERIENCE MARKS CEB 25TH ANNIVERSARY THE Philippines’s leading airline, Cebu Pacific launches its newest cabin interiors inspired by its hometown Cebu, reflecting the colors of the Philippine islands, as it wraps up its 25th anniversary celebrations. With the lowest carbon footprint per passenger, CEB’s greenest aircraft to date enters into service on December 8. The A330neo’s first flight is from Manila to Cebu.

“We hope this new customer cabin experience contributes to more smiles ahead for every passenger as travel plans resume. Designed with our passengers’ comfort and experience in mind, our new cabin interiors reflect how proud we are to hail from Cebu, and to represent the Philippine islands wherever we fly,” said Candice Iyog, CEB vice president for marketing and customer experience.

Upon boarding CEB’s newest aircraft, passengers will be greeted with a lighting panel in a fresh, inviting shade of teal, reminiscent of clear Philippine waters. Its front and rear walls feature a raised CEB logo on a vibrant blue-on-blue mango pattern, a touch that pays tribute to the mangoes which Cebu is famous for.

Like its other eco-planes, the A330neo’s seats are ergonomically designed by world-renowned manufacturer Recaro, this time made sleek and sporty with calming blue-grey leather, and a carbon fiber texture reminiscent of Cebu’s famous puso or hanging rice.

The carrier’s signature blue and yellow accents are also incorporated in the seat design, for standard and premium seats, respectively. Each seat is also equipped with USB Type A and Type C ports that enable passengers to charge their mobile devices inflight. New carpet patterns were inspired by the airline’s eagle icon, while select lavatory walls come in golden yellow complete with a mango detail.

CEB’s new cabin experience was designed with LIFT Aero Design, an aviation design company based in Tokyo and Singapore.

“This project was all about infusing the cabin with the Cebu Pacific brand,” said Daniel Baron, LIFT’s managing director. “We focused on translating the airline’s distinct yellow and blue palette into a calm inflight environment that reflects their youthful and dynamic identity and Cebu roots.”

The A330neo is known to have the quietest cabin to date, allowing CEB to provide an improved overall customer experience for all. The new cabin design will be incorporated on all upcoming CEB neo aircraft deliveries.

With a capacity of 459 seats, the A330neo allows for more seats without compromising on cabin comfort.

Equipped with the latest technologies and industry reference cabin design, this eco-plane uses 25 percent less fuel than previous generation aircraft—able to consume as little as 1.4 liters per seat per 100 kilometers, thus burning less fuel and emitting less carbon.

CEB boasts of one of the youngest fleets in the world, with an average fleet age of 5.94 years. Its 74-strong fleet includes two dedicated ATR freighters.

Changing career lanes D

URING the pandemic, many people were laid off and had to take odd jobs here and there just to make ends meet. Others put their focus and energies on their hobbies, consequently making a decent, if not better, source of income for themselves. And with the possibility of a fully remote work force, some have started to consider looking for better work opportunities outside the familiarity of their industries.

There are many reasons why people shift careers aside from the flexibility of a remote work arrangement. One is the lack of opportunities within their industry because it is too saturated, and the lack of professional growth due to steep competition for promotion.

Or the working conditions are such that their work-life balance is compromised. Others have lost interest in their own industry, so they shift careers to be challenged and improve themselves. Meanwhile, others want to shift careers for better compensation and a generally better work environment where they can pursue both their personal and professional aspirations.

If you are planning to shift to another career, or if current circumstances force you to look for work outside your industry, there are several considerations you need to keep in mind. The most important is identifying your reasons for changing careers. You need to pinpoint the most compelling reason for you to shift careers, so you do not end up jumping from one industry after another. It will help you narrow down industries which can meet your

needs and at the same time, this helps you focus on a goal for your professional development.

After that, create an inventory of your skills set so you have a better understanding of where you are at the moment. If possible, ask someone to rate your level of skill in each so you can identify your strengths and weaknesses.

You need to highlight your strength in your resume and focus on transferable skills like verbal and written communication, leadership, or research and analytical skills. Knowing your capabilities is a crucial step in identifying which industries are fit for your skills set.

In looking for these industries, focus on those industries that employ people with the same skillset as you do, but still manage your expectations. When I transferred from the academe into corporate training, I thought they would be similar since both involved teaching. When I started training corporate employees, I discovered that the teaching principles I followed could not be used the same way in a corporate setting. So be careful that you do not generalize and be as familiar as you can with the new industry you are joining.

One way to get to know the industry better is to take free online courses to understand the field better. There are tons of materials online which can help you become familiar with the industry you are interested in. Take the time to read or watch videos about the field you are looking into and gauge your interest. Sometimes, reading more about a field will help you get an overall picture of what to expect when you shift to that industry. Chances are, if you are really interested, you will take it seriously and take certification courses on the field.

If you want to get a leg up on the competition, take certification courses to improve your skills and augment your formal training. This assures prospective employers that you are serious in shifting to a new career, and that you have invested time and effort into improving your skills to fit the position.

More often than not, people do not find the time to upgrade themselves because they are too busy doing their work. Getting a certification in your chosen field

gives you an advantage even over people in that field.

There might even be the possibility that what you have learned will be far more advanced than what they know.

Also, take your time and understand that not everything can be learned overnight. Set realistic expectations for yourself and do what you can to understand the field better. You can also create a professional development plan for yourself, so you have a checklist of what you need to learn and accomplish at certain checkpoints in your new career.

You can look at course outlines and syllabi to get an overview of major topics you need to learn. But all in all, do not be too hard on yourself and learn as much as you can.

If you know someone in the same field, ask if you can observe them at their workplace. Nothing beats application of theory into practice. By shadowing, you get to see how people use concepts in their work, and you also get to see the relationship dynamics of the different roles in your new career. If shadowing is not possible, try to volunteer so you can have firsthand experience and see for yourself how it is to be immersed in the new field. By doing so, you get a sense if the prospective industry is right up your alley. If you do not know anyone who can show you what the work is, this would be a good opportunity to expand your network.

And when you apply for a position in your preferred industry, edit your resume to highlight your skills set based on the significant requirements they are considering for the position. To help your future employer understand how you can become a valuable member of the team, focus on projects you handled before which highlights a relevant skill they need for the position. This assures the interviewer that even if you come from a different field, your skills are significantly needed by the team.

Changing careers can become the spark you need to pursue what you are truly passionate about, or it can become an endless cycle of missed exits and wrong turns. If given the opportunity to change careers, take the time to carefully deliberate what field to go to and relentlessly follow that direction. n

Consumers value a product viewed online more if they see it being virtually touched

By Andrea Luangrath University of Iowa CONSUMERS who see a product on sale being virtually touched are more engaged and willing to pay more than if the item is displayed on its own, according to a recent research paper I coauthored.

Behavioral economists have previously shown that people value objects more highly if they own them, a concept known as “the endowment effect.” Marketers have found that this feeling of ownership can occur even when a consumer merely touches something in a store.

With Americans buying a record amount of stuff online, I wondered whether virtual touch also influences how consumers perceive and value products. To find out, I teamed up with marketing researchers Joann Peck, William Hedgcock and Yixiang Xu and performed a series of studies.

In one, we examined 4,535 Instagram posts from four companies with tangible products that could be displayed in one’s hands. For example, we reviewed Instagram posts including ones that showed a hand

grasping a Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte against a backdrop of autumn leaves and hands unboxing the latest Samsung smartphone. We also examined posts without any touching.

Of the posts that contained a product, 43 percent portrayed hands in physical contact with it. These garnered significantly more engagement—receiving on average 65 percent more “likes”—than those that didn’t.

To test this in an immersive environment, we recruited 144 students to a behavioral lab and asked them to wear a virtual reality headset that depicted them inside a sportswear store. Students could look 360 degrees around the virtual store, which mirrored a brick-and-mortar retail space with mannequins in the window and floor-to-ceiling clothing displays.

After about a minute, the headset simulated moving toward a red T-shirt hanging on a rack.

One-third of the students then viewed their virtual hand reach out to touch the shirt, a second third saw a cursor appear over the product—and no hand—while the rest witnessed the hand grasp a pole on a nearby shelf.

Afterward, students completed a survey asking them to state how much they would pay for the T-shirt, up to $30. Those who saw their hand touching the shirt were willing to pay an average of 33 percent more than those who did not.

We tested across six additional studies using a variety of stimuli, including GIFs and videos.

We varied the type of product being touched, the apparent gender and realness of the hands and their movement. We found consistent results showing an increased willingness to pay for the product when people “touched” it—even when we gave them a cartoonlike blue hand.

Touch is a powerful tool for forming connections with products.

Companies have known this for years and try to encourage consumers to touch products in their stores. Apple reportedly tilts laptop screens in its stores to a specific angle to force consumers to touch them to have a comfortable viewing angle.

As more sales occur online, companies are trying to adjust to replicate the in-store sensory experience, such as by making return policies lenient so people

know they can still try before they buy. Studies have found this strategy can increase sales.

Sellers are also experimenting with other ways to mimic the sense of touch to get consumers to form these critical connections with their products. For example, companies are testing ways to use haptic or touch technologies to allow consumers to get sensory feedback on their mobile phones when they watch ads. Our research suggests that observing a product being touched establishes a connection to the hand on-screen doing the touching. This may create the sensation that the virtual hand is one’s own, which increases the feeling of psychological ownership over the product.

We’ve studied how people perceive products that are being touched virtually, but we don’t know how this affects other consumer behaviors, such as returning a product.

It’s possible that seeing someone else touch a product may backfire by creating high expectations for how a product feels but then fall short when consumers actually hold the product in their hands.

THE CONVERSATION

B6 Wednesday, December 8, 2021

P&G Health commemorates Iron Deficiency Day, launches counselling guide for pharmacists

Youth leaders convene for EU-funded peace conference in Tagum City

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MID the continued threats of violent extremism and terrorism in many parts of the Philippines, hundreds of young leaders representing indigenous groups, Christian and Muslim communities, and other backgrounds mobilized recently in a powerful showcase of peace through the Panaghiusa Grand Peace Conference held at the Tagum City Historical and Cultural Center.

Funded by the European Union (EU) and supported by the Kofi Annan Foundation (KAF), the non-profit organization Kristiyano-Islam Peace Library (KRIS), and the local government of Tagum City, the Grand Conference is the culminating activity of the Extremely Together Philippines - Panaghiusa (ET Philippines) program which aims to prevent violent extremism and promote peace through youth leadership in the Philippines.

“Violent extremism is like a pandemic that we can cure through unity and education. This is why we are working to educate, empower, and inspire young people to become peacebuilders who can strengthen the resistance of their fellow youth against terrorism,” shared Paula Gendrano, co-project lead of ET Philippines.

“With our Grand Conference, we are celebrating the accomplishments of the ET Philippines program since we launched in 2020. This is a milestone we’re sharing with our partner youth leaders from Tagum City, Zamboanga City, Marawi City, Luzon, and other areas where we’ve held our activities.

At the same time, it is a call to action to strengthen the unified efforts of young Filipinos towards peace as we face the challenges of the pandemic, poverty, inequality, and more,” she added.

Reaching over 150 youth representatives from diverse backgrounds from Tagum City and Davao del Norte in the physical conference and nearly 1,000 more young leaders through Zoom and Facebook Live, the Panaghiusa Grand

Conference featured stunning cultural performances from the Tagum-based Dilaab youth dance crew, presentations from members of ET Philippines from all over the Philippines, and expert discussions led by Kabataan Party-List Rep. Sarah Elago, Leonard Faustino of Global Peace Foundation, and One Young World Ambassador Amor Paredes.

To tackle peacebuilding from the lens of different advocacies, breakout sessions were also held on the topics of: good governance

by GoodGov PH founder Dexter Yang; mental health by psychology educator Niel Steve Kintanar of Love Yourself, Inc; diversity by Youth for Peace Movement President Loigie Sewo Onda; environmental security by Lemuel Alcantara Alagon of the Department of Agriculture Multi-Purpose Cooperative; and partnership by Baihannah Pangalao of the Youth for a Culture of Peace and Non-Violence in Mindanao (YOUCAP) program of GIZ. “With today’s rampant poverty in our country together with the economic problems we are facing - including problems on drugs and violent extremism - we need youth development not only for today but also in the future. This can be achieved through the active participation of the youth. We must create the definition of youth as the boldest, bravest, most

imaginative, and innovative in order to impact positive change,” stated Tagum City Mayor Allan Rellon in his opening address.

Remarking on the local city government’s commitment to youth development through partnerships such as the Panaghiusa Grand Conference, he also said, “All of us - may it be in the government or private sector - must enable the capacities of the youth. We must put our optimism and confidence in them as leading agents of sustainable development.”

The grand conference follows the training and peacebuilding activities of ET Philippines which has built the capacities of over 500 young leaders on preventing violent extremism, reached thousands of Filipino youth through various digital webinars on peace, and provided a total of nearly half a million pesos in seed funding to 20 youth organizations with promising projects for peace in different communities.

These projects include campaigns for peace education and good governance; social enterprises and livelihood opportunities for vulnerable groups such as for displaced persons in Marawi and for former combatants in Tagum; an ecotourism destination in Zamboanga that has been hit hard by violent extremism; sustainable farming initiatives; and more.

Life is G this Christmas! GCash brings back the thrill of Christmas shopping and exciting family gatherings

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VERYONE surely longs for the warmth that the holiday season brings, especially in a country known to celebrate Christmas as a tightknit community. Holiday shopping at bazaars and fairs, Christmas carols around the neighborhood, homecoming reunions, pamamasko and gift-giving may have been reduced to a dose of nostalgia for the past year but this time, GCash shows us that we are headed for brighter days!

This Christmas, the leading e-wallet platform in the Philippines, is bringing to life these well-loved Filipino Christmas traditions and giving us more reasons to celebrate and be merry.

GCash, the undisputed #1 financial app in the country with over 40 million users to date, is inviting everyone to Merry GCash, its biggest and brightest Christmas celebration, with guaranteed daily rewards and a chance to be the first GCash millionaire, digitizing your favorite Filipino Christmas traditions.

Enjoy Christmas GLife Tiangge

GCash invites users to experience a more rewarding thrill of fulfilling wish lists and Christmas shopping. No more going through the dreaded Christmas rush, as GLife merchants will offer exclusive discounts and promos open for all users to enjoy!

Simply click on GLife on the GCash app, select the MerryG category and shop from featured brands and MSMEs.

Send Love, Send Pamasko

THE tradition of aguinaldo will continue to live on even if we can’t physically visit our ninongs, ninangs or inaanaks. With Send Love, Send Pamasko, GCash gives us a convenient and safe way to send

love to our loved ones and share blessings with partner charities. Even OFWs who can’t make it home can send their pamasko from anywhere across the globe to anywhere in the country with GCash.

With Send Pamasko, users can also donate in GLife for participating charity partners: ABS-CBN Foundation, GMA Kapuso Foundation, Save the Children, OFW Family Club, UNICEF and WWF. If you are thinking of adding a special Christmas touch to your pamasko for your family and friends, Send Pamasko and Send with a Clip features allow you to use special themes created by partner charities and the GCash Barkada. Simply fill in their GCash number and total amount, add a thoughtful message, select from holiday themes and confirm the transaction to show them how much they mean to you.

Get A Chance To Win 50 Million Worth of Prizes

CATCH up and connect with your loved ones

this holiday season with the Lucky Load promo. For every PHP 50 worth of transaction through Buy Load on your GCash app, you get a Lucky Load ticket. With each ticket, you get to pick 6 out of 30 icons, and when you match at least 3 icons, you get a share of the pot prize of up to PHP 100,000.

GCash brings you traditional Christmas parols that are not only delightful to watch, but also rewarding to light up for a minimum spend of Php 100 using GCash. With Shake it Up, Light it Up, users can collect as many parols as they can through the GCash app and light them up for daily discounts and prizes!

Users can also ramp up their entries when they transact using GCash Padala, GSave, GInvest, GInsure, GLife and GCredit — serving as multipliers to instantly receive two unlit parols with just one transaction. Simply shake these parols to light them up and reveal their prizes. The first parol will give the user a guaranteed merchant voucher while the other parol entitles the user an entry for a chance to be one of 5,000 winners of the Merry GCash raffle.

GCash will also give away a Sari Sari Store Showcase to 3 GCash users.

During the Grand Draw on Dec. 21, one lucky winner will be the first GCash millionaire.

While waiting for the raffle draw, GCash users who participate in the Shake it Up, Light it Up will get daily discounts and prizes from partner merchants.

The greatest gift we can give is connecting and sharing joy with our family, friends, loved ones, and our kababayan in need of love. All set to have a #MerryGCash? Click https:// go.gcash.com/merrygcash

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&G Health, the health care division of Procter & Gamble (NYSE:PG), announced the launch of the ‘First Iron Deficiency Diagnosis and Counselling Guide’ for Pharmacists on the occasion of Iron Deficiency Day 2021. It was developed using the ASHP (American Society of Health-System Pharmacists) Guidelines on Pharmacist-Conducted Patient Education and Counseling and IDA-specific management considerations from peer-reviewed literature. The guide, with its novel 4-step framework, will equip pharmacists to better engage and counsel patients on Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA).

Today, approximately 2.3 billion people globally suffer from anemia, with an estimated one in two attributed to IDA. Patients experience symptoms such as frequent tiredness, dizziness, paleness, and impaired immunity, which thus impacts their quality of life, mobility, and productivity. Many patients remain asymptomatic. Southeast Asia and Africa continue to report the highest prevalence rates of anemia, accounting for 85 percent of global reported cases.

With no existing or consistent guide in place for dealing with IDA, 84% of patients end up being under-diagnosed especially since symptoms for IDA are vague with some patients being asymptomatic.

“P&G Health has been committed to

awareness and education efforts on iron deficiency anemia, a condition affecting a large part of our population across Asia. Iron Deficiency Anemia inhibits a person’s ability to live life to their fullest potential. With pharmacists being among the first line of contact for patients, they are well positioned in the community to have a significant impact on public health. We realized that the lack of a standardized guide creates the possibility of under-diagnosis, incomplete counsel, or worse. With this guide, we aim to equip pharmacists with a structured framework to diagnose and counsel for iron deficiency thereby helping empower consumers to live healthier, and more vibrant lives.” shared Aalok Agrawal, Senior Vice President, P&G Health – Asia Pacific, India, Middle East and Africa.

Dr Catherine​Duggan, Chief Executive Officer, International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) stated, “The FIP vision is for a world where everyone benefits from access to safe, effective, quality and affordable medicines and health technologies, as well as from pharmaceutical care services provided by pharmacists, in collaboration with other healthcare professionals.”

The guide will be rolled out progressively worldwide starting with Southeast Asia and India.

J&T Express and Shopee wrap up 2021 with more deals and shipping discounts this 12.12 Pamasko Promo

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H Global Jet Express Inc. (J&T Express), the leading delivery service in the country, and Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, bring another grand double-day sale to Filipinos before the year ends.

With Christmas just around the corner, shoppers are already ordering gifts online.

This December 12, shoppers can enjoy free shipping every Monday, the best deals from J&T Express, , and even more promos from some of the biggest brands on Shopee.

This 12.12, J&T Express assures shoppers that their orders will arrive in time for Christmas with J&T Express’ premium delivery services.

“Shopee’s 12.12 Big Christmas Sale is the perfect opportunity for shoppers to get the best deals for their last-minute purchases. J&T Express is excited to share the holiday spirit and bring even more joy to shoppers during these tough times by offering discounted vouchers and promos with our e-commerce partner. We look forward to continuously supporting Shopee with their upcoming campaigns next year,” J&T Express Philippines Vice President Zoe Chi said.

Aside from site-wide free shipping

during Shopee’s biggest sale of the year, customers can also avail a 10% discount using J&T Express’ exclusive promo code SHPJT12, valid on December 12 only.

Small businesses can also send orders to their customers with J&T Express’ free pick-up service in Metro Manila. They can choose to schedule their free pick-up via phone call, J&T Express’ official website, or official mobile app J&T Express’ free pick-up service will also soon be available nationwide.

To know more about the company’s services, visit https://www.jtexpress.ph/.

Cleen and Green officially opens for franchising

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LEEN and Green, the eco-friendly cleaning service established last 2020, has grown full force providing the community with high quality professional disinfection and cleaning it needs.

With their presence in key locations in Lipa , Cavite, Laguna and Quezon City and continuously expanding nationwide, they will be able to impart to the market the importance of a specialized deep cleaning/ disinfecting process and propagate ecofriendly service by using plant based solutions to protect their clientele from hazardous chemical that may harm pets, kids and beloved elderlies.

By utilizing Cleen and Green's recognizable brand name and high reputation, you, too, can become a part of their highly potential business venture towards excellence. This exciting new lucrative business model is available

here and overseas allowing exponential growth!

From its humble beginnings, Cleen and Green aims to connect with partners worldwide providing a chance for OFWs to partner with relatives back home to earn, work and grow a successful business!

It is finally time to respond to the demand of the community and provide them with a reliable revolutionary Cleaning and Disinfection Service that aims to protect homes from common viruses and bacteria, as well as our planet, as an eco-friendly company.

For more information, email info@ cleenandgreen.com.

Visit https://cleenandgreen.com/ and social media channels: https://www. instagram.com/cleen and reencleaningservices/ and https://www.facebook.com/ cleenandgreencleaningservices/

BusinessMirror

Editor: Tet Andolong

Wednesday, December 8, 2021 B7

New Cebu office tower anticipates economic recovery

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evelopers of a new office tower in the strategic provincial location of Cebu are already sensing economic recovery.

Unlike Metro Manila where the pandemic caused significant project delays, Cebu City allowed construction to go on mostly uninterrupted in the past two years. Thus, newly completed office buildings like Latitude Corporate Center by listed firm Cebu Landmasters Inc. (CLI) have been entertaining a good number of potential occupiers expecting to make the most of forthcoming opportunities. CLI is the largest developer in the Visayas and Mindanao region.

Mikko Barranda, Leechiu Property Consultants director for commercial leasing, explains that many inquiries for space in Latitude have been from expanding businesses and IT-Business Process Management (IT-BPM) firms, particularly those in higher value Knowledge Processing Outsourcing (KPOs) work who want to lock in deals by 2Q 2022.

He noted: “Even at the height of the lockdowns, IT-BPMs took up office space.

We expect them to continue doing so since outsourcing to the Philippines is a viable solution for recovering Western economies.”

KPOs, which require workers with more specialized skills, are particularly attracted to the labor pool of Cebu, the largest educational and economic hub in the South. Thus, the city draws talents from all over the Visayas and Mindanao.

Responsive Design Excellence (BERDE).

These include a spacious plaza with a tree sanctuary, a sky lounge at the 14th floor, and a garden deck at the 17th floor which provide occupants breathing space and enhance their feelings of well-being.

Retail areas in the ground and second floor are added conveniences.

Latitude’s key attraction, nonetheless, is its location within the Cebu Business Park (CBP), which is under the jurisdiction of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority. This allows IT-BPM occupants tax incentives.

Latitude’s location within CBP’s main thoroughfare Mindanao Avenue also means it is a short stroll to Ayala Center’s 500 retail and restaurant outlets and transport hub. Moreover, it will be very accessible to Cebu’s first five-star hotel to be operated by Sofitel and is set for completion in 2025.

Pending the opening of this prime Sofitel hotel, other tourism establishments are scheduled to be completed including two major casino resorts in 2022, more hotels to be operated by Radisson and other international chains thereafter.

These projects are also being complimented by major infrastructure improvements including the opening by Q1 2022 of the third bridge linking Cebu and Mactan. An expressway and bus rapid transit to ease congestion within the city are also opening within the same year.

“All these signal local confidence that recovery is just around the corner,” according to Leechiu Property Consultants’ Barranda.

Office space is also less costly in the southern metropolis than in key business districts in Metro Manila. For this same reason, some multinationals have chosen to locate their main headquarters in Cebu and not in the capital. Moreover, it is a favored disaster-recovery site for many IT-BPMs. Entrepreneurs and large companies seeking more modern and convenient offices have also been inquiring about Latitude’s offerings. The building with 23 floors has attractive spaces for all three segments: five f loors from the 8th to the 12th floors with 2,000-sqm floor plates earmarked for IT-BPMs; three floors from the 14th to the 16th for large corporations needing expansive spaces; and eight floors from the 17th to the 24th for dynamic entrepreneurs needing smaller cuts.

Leechiu Property Consultant officers explain that for added security, there is a lobby and elevators dedicated to ITBPMs who tend to operate at night; and another lobby and elevators for corporates and traditional offices. The separate lobbies mean shorter queuing in the elevators for all.

A ll occupants will also appreciate the sustainable features of the office tower which upholds the green building guidelines of Building for Ecologically

Everything is grand at SM City Grand Central

Caloocan City officials Mayor Oscar “Oca” G. Malapitan (third from right), Second District Rep. Edgar R. Erice (third from left), and Vice Mayor Macario “Maca” Asistio III (second from right) graced the recent opening of SM City Grand Central. It is SM Prime Holding’s 78th supermall; and the second in Caloocan City after SM Center Sangandaan. The six-level 116,000-squaremeter mall will serve customers in the Camanava sub-region—Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, and Valenzuela, as well as Manila and Quezon City. Joining them are SM Prime Holdings Inc. President Jeffrey Lim (second from left), SM Engineering Design and Development President Hans Sy Jr. (left), SM Prime Director Herbert Sy (right), and Reverend Father Jeronimo Cruz (center), Rector of the Cathedral and Vicar General of the Diocese of Kalookan.

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aloocan is known as the Makasaysayang Lungsod, the Historic City. This was the place where the Katipuneros, a secret militant society, was formed during the Spanish colonization in the country. It was here where they held their clandestine meetings, and where the members of the Katipunan, made their historic “Unang Sigaw” which served as the starting point for the Philippine Revolution.

It’s another date with history in Caloocan on November 26, 2021, when SM City Grand Central opens its doors, bringing great shopping, leisure and entertainment to this storied city. SM City Grand Central is SM Prime Holdings Inc. 78th supermall and second SM mall in Caloocan after SM Center Sangandaan in 2015.

Caloocan today is a first class and highly urbanized city, the fourth most populous in the Philippines. It is among the top cities in the Philippines with highest equity ratings due to infrastructure, transportation, communications system, and educational attainment of human resources. The city continues to enjoy rapid economic growth today from new waves of investors coming in including shopping malls.

Strategically located in a 22,901.80-square-meter site along Rizal Ave Ext., corner Bustamante Street in Caloocan City, SM City Grand Central will serve shoppers in Caloocan, as well as those from other parts of the Camanava sub-region—Malabon, Navotas, Valenzuela; Manila, and Quezon City. More than that, it will be a catalyst for employment and business opportunities in the area.

The six-level 116,000-square-meter mall is a destination to everything grand.

A series of dynamic geometric forms creates a bold backdrop that emphasizes a strong street presence. The random, vertical pattern provides a playful touch further enhancing the main elevation with dynamic flair. Colors are bold and powerful, strategically applied to enhance the grand, impressive building frontage.

The interiors of SM City Grand Central are organized around a large, curved atrium and a perpendicular mall corridor that intersect to create a clear line-of-sight to all shops on all levels at all times. Carefully placed bridges provide access to all portions of the mall, supplemented by a centrally located glass elevator, dynamic stairs, and elevators for optimal customer

convenience.

The main interior features a sophisticated, modern palette of colors and materials with light gray and wood accents.

Pops of color are provided through planting and seating. Large skylights above the main atrium and wrap-around clerestory provide glare-free daylight to all areas of the mall.

The SM Store and SM Supermarket are SM City Grand Central’s major anchors along with SM Appliance Center, ACE hardware, Our Home, Watsons, Surplus Shop, Sports Central, Pet Express, Uniqlo, The Body Shop, Crocs, and Miniso. It will also have fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, bookstores; as well as a Cyberzone and service and wellness centers.

Eating out options include a Food Court, specialty restaurants like Hawker Chan, Mesa and Nono’s, and international and local food chains like Kenny Rogers, Classic Savory, Pancake House, Caramia, Café Mary Grace, Breadtalk, and Goldilocks.

SM City Grand Central will also have four state of the art cinemas and two Director’s Clubs that offer a premium movie experience, leather recliners, and a crystalclear laser projection system.

The top floor of SM City Grand Central features the Skylight Park, an indoor sky garden with open green spaces. Shops and restaurants line the curved, circular paths where customers can shop and dine while enjoying the Skylight Park ambiance. A Chapel and Multi-Purpose space bookend and anchor additional green space. These spaces are designed as compliments to the overall concept and further enhance its unique and grand character.

For the customer’s convenience and enhanced malling experience, SM City Grand Central has a total of 700 parking slots including regular car slots, PWD car slots, and motorcycle slots.

SM City Grand Central’s project team includes DSGN & Associates, Design Consultant; WCY Architects, Architectof-Record; Constech Management Group Inc., Project Management; and Monolith Construction Development Corp., General Contractor.

Home

THE NEWEST TOSTEM COLLECTION: ATIS, THE ART OF THE VIEW

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dream home is not just made of its interiors and exteriors. What also makes it your dream home are the views outdoors that you can unite seamlessly with the inside. TOSTEM, global leader in housing technology, unveils ATIS, its newest collection that transforms these views into moving art, that brings that beautiful outside world, in.

ATIS: The Art of the View: a collection of windows and doors that believes in simple beauty and the beauty of simplicity. Created with artistic and minimal design, with ATIS there are no obstructions or distractions. ATIS will change the way we build and live. Frame by frame.

Beautifully.

Born from the innovation and technology of Japan, a land embraced by both the gifts and hardships of nature, TOSTEM has over half-a-century of experience forged into its collections. With ATIS, TOSTEM offers windows and doors that go above and beyond Japanese Industrial Standards. With a design refined through Japan’s changing seasons, ATIS offers harmony of functional performance and simple design.

ATIS promises top of the line security together with a unique aesthetic for your home. With ATIS all the hardware is concealed, you won’t see any caps and screws, yet its technology, quality, perfor-

mance, and design all work beautifully.

ATIS doors are simple yet all functional, with all machinery hidden in the frame, even door stoppers. The ATIS collection features a wide array of product offerings fit for your aesthetic and suited for your lifestyle. Depending on your choice of ATIS window, sliding windows come with a safety stopper ensuring that anyone who uses them won’t get hurt. The awning window comes with an orbit handle, simply designed, simply functional. The tilt and slide window features two elements, tilting and sliding, all in one. All ATIS windows are equipped with the smart screen system with an invisible shield, keeping insects out, letting more airf low in, and increasing transparency. The view is always unimpeded—just pure artistry.

The end goal is not just window or door frames after all—it is beauty.

At the heart of the design philosophy of TOSTEM lies the creation of products to enhance joy in your home. The smallest details of your daily interaction with your windows and doors are all considered, to create the best possible experience. Every element measures up to the highest standard of function, form, and endurance. They are, after all, not just another window or door in another home—they are yours. Framing beauty. Framing life.

ATIS: The Art of the View.

KIEFER RAVENA (left) presents a jersey to Deputy Chief of Mission Robespierre Bolivar.

Sports BusinessMirror

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| Wednesday, December 8, 2021 mirror_sports@yahoo.com.ph Editor: Jun Lomibao

PBA GOVS CUP ON

T Embassy in Japan fetes PHL players

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HE Philippine Embassy in Japan honored former Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) star Kiefer Ravena on Tuesday with Deputy Chief of Mission Robespierre Bolivar saying they are very proud of the Filipino basketball stars now playing in Japan’s nascent league.

“I remember a time when the PBA hosted a lot of foreign players in its ranks. Now, it’s the Filipino athletes’ turn to showcase their celebrated basketball prowess here in Japan,” said Bolivar during the player’s courtesy call.

When asked about some of his most memorable experiences playing in the B. League, Ravena said that seeing many Filipinos cheering in the audience gives him more motivation to play harder.

“There’re even Japanese fans

waving the Philippine flag during many of our games,” Ravena said.

“This is sports diplomacy at work—where Filipinos and Japanese foster greater mutual understanding through basketball,” Bolivar said.

“2021 is a banner year for the Filipino athlete, especially in Japan. Just a few months ago, we had a historic medal haul in the Tokyo Olympics.

Now, PBA stars are making waves in the B. League.”

Currently in Japan on a one-year contract with the Shiga Lakestars Team, Ravena is one of eight Filipino professional players plying their trade in the B. League.

Ravena’s younger brother Thirdy Ravena is also playing in the B.League, along with Kenmark Carino, Kobe Paras, Bobby Ray Parks, Dwight Ramos and brothers Juan Gomez and Javi de Leano.

Natl athletics championships slated at Baguio Athletic Bowl

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LOSE to 300 athletes from around the country will converge in Baguio City for the Ayala Philippine Athletics Championships set December 16 and 17 at the Baguio City Athletic Bowl.

Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association (Patafa) president Philip Ella Juico on Tuesday said the event marks the return of full competition on the national stage.

“It’s our first national championships in two years but it’s not the first event we’re staging during the pandemic,” Juico said. “We at Patafa held virtual races and seminars for coaches and trainers.”

“We were doing things during the pandemic. We did a lot of planning, we did not fall asleep,” Juico told the online Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum.

Juico thanked the sponsors led by Ayala and the City of Baguio headed

by Mayor Benjie Magalong, for making things happen and ensuring the safety of all participants, including the observance of health protocols.

Track coach Jeffrey Chua said the athletes, including the 40

By Josef Ramos

HE Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) is finally back in the metro with the opening of the Governors’ Cup, proof that normalcy from the Covid-19 pandemic is starting to set in—but not with two of the day’s protagonists that are bound to live a new normal.

San Miguel Beer (SMB) plays NLEX at 6 p.m. at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City minus one recognizable Beerman—Arwind Santos, whose new team NorthPort opens hostilities against Alaska at 3 p.m.

After donning SMB’s colors for 12 consecutive seasons, the Most Valuable Player in 2013 brings his leadership and veteran smarts to a Batang Pier side that is hoping to create a dent in the league’s abbreviated 46th season.

“I feel like a rookie again…but with a winning attitude,” Santos told BusinessMirror on Tuesday.

“I’m enjoying how this team treats me, how my teammates and coaches trust me. So I have to exert a lot of effort from rebounding, defense and offense.”

“I have to contribute each game starting against Alaska,” added the 40-year-old Santos, who helped the Beermen win nine titles.

Santos was traded to NorthPort in exchange for big man Vic Manuel during the break that was agonizingly prolonged because of the pandemic.

Against Alaska, the former Far Eastern University King Tamaraw said they cannot be complacent.

“We cannot relax because all teams are balanced and everyone can beat anybody especially Alaska which has a good import with a young core,” he said.

The Batang Pier’s winning mentality has leveled up with Santos around and backing up 7-foot Greg Slaughter, Robert Bolick, rookie Jamie Malonzo, Kevin Ferrer, Paolo Taha, newly-acquired Art dela Cruz and import Cameron Forte.

Alaska coach Jeffrey Cariaso will be playing new guy Mike Tolomia and import Ashaolu Olu. San Miguel Beer coach Leo Austria, meanwhile, said the Beermen are in harness against the Road Warriors especially new acquisitions Manuel and Simon Enciso and import Brandon Brown.

Panlilio reelected SBP head

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members of the national pool, are excited for the event.

“They are all excited to compete.

Even in training, they are always on the go. We’re very happy that participants from all regions in the country are coming to Baguio,” he said.

Also gracing the forum presented by San Miguel Corp., Milo, Amelie Hotel Manila, Braska Restaurant and the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. was reigning Southeast Asian Games marathon queen Christine Hallasgo.

“We have been training here in Baguio since last October. And in two months we have seen the improvement,” said Hallasgo, who will vie in the women’s 10,000 meters.

Juico said that because of protocols, marathon was not included in the program. He added that 18 gold medals will be disputed in each of the men’s and women’s divisions.

The former Philippine Sports Commission chairman added the event kicks off the preparations of the national athletes for the Hanoi 31st SEA Games in May and the Hangzhou Asian Games in September. “We need to start preparing for these events,” Juico said.

L PANLILIO was reelected to a fresh term as president of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) in a virtual exercise last Friday, according to SBP special assistant to the President Ryan Gregorio.

Panlilio thanked the SBP board for the trust and confidence as he leads the national sports association in another challenging term that ends in 2024.

“I am thankful for the continued vote of confidence from the movers and shakers of the Philippine basketball community,” Panlilio said.

Panlilio, president and CEO of PLDT, said that’s tops in the SBP’s focus is the country’s lead hosting of the 2023 International Basketball Federation (Fiba) World Cup. Japan and Indonesia are co-hosting the event.

“It’s time to put in more work as we traverse through this pandemic while still having our eyes fixed on our co-hosting of the Fiba Basketball World Cup 2023,” he said. “I’m excited to continue working with the re-elected

PANLILIO

HERE’S a scene in the Basketball Association (PBA).

With 10 seconds left in a game, Valentin Dakuykoy a.k.a. VD blocks a lay-up by Quintin Balajadia a.k.a. QB. VD grabs the rebound. With his team up by a point, what’s the wisest thing for him to do?

Freeze the ball. Milk the clock. And, easily, he can convert that one-point lead into victory. He can practically effortlessly do those

Alaska’s Richard Bachman were named to the board of trustees representing the PBA and PBA D-League, respectively.

Also on board were Mark Molina of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines, Dax Castellano of the National Collegiate Athletic Association and Monica Jorge representing the women’s sector.

SBP Deputy Executive Director Butch Antonio chaired the elections body. Josef Ramos

officials and welcome the new members of the SBP’s Board of Trustees.”

Philippine Basketball Association Chairman and TNT Governor Ricky Vargas was elected vice president while Senator Sonny Angara and Rep. Robbie Puno kept the posts of chairman and vice chairman, respectively.

Executive director Sonny Barrios remained as executive office with Ricky Palou staying as treasurer and Atty. Marievic Añonuevo as corporate secretary. Business tycoon Manuel V. Pangilinan remained as chairman emeritus.

PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial, Terrafirma’s Bobby Rosales and

US plans diplomatic boycott of Beijing Winter Olympics

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ASHINGTON—The US will stage a diplomatic boycott of the upcoming Winter Olympics in Beijing to protest Chinese human rights abuses, the White House confirmed Monday, a move that China has vowed to greet with “firm countermeasures.”

White House press secretary Jen Psaki said US athletes will continue to compete and will “have our full support,” but added “we will not be contributing to the fanfare of the games.”

“US diplomatic or official representation would treat these games as business as usual in the face of

the PRC’s egregious human rights abuses and atrocities in Xinjiang, and we simply can’t do that,” Psaki told reporters during Monday’s briefing.

“We have a fundamental commitment to promoting human rights.

And we feel strongly in our position and we will continue to take actions to advance human rights in China and beyond,” Psaki added.

The announcement came as US President Joe Biden prepares to host a White House Summit for Democracy, a virtual gathering of leaders and civil society experts from more than 100 countries that is set to take place

A VISITOR to the Shougang Park walks past the logos for the Beijing Winter Olympics and Paralympics in Beijing. AP

Reviewing PBA rules

“They’re all very happy to be part of the team and they want to win a championship,” said Austria, adding that NLEX is a dangerous opponent with its competitive import KJ McDaniels.

Also missing on the SMB bench is Alex Cabagnot, who was traded to Terrafirma for Enciso.

NLEX Coach Yeng Guiao said SMB would definitely be a tough nut to crack and stressed that they are the underdogs on opening day.

“We’re the underdogs for sure.

They are in panic mode every time they don’t enter the finals,” Guiao said. “They’re doing everything to improve their lineup. That’s how urgent it is for them.”

NLEX signed up playmaker Kris Rosales to fill the shoes left by Kiefer Ravena, who is playing for Shiga Lakestars in Japan B.League. The Road Warriors also activated 48-yearold behemoth Paul Asi Taulava.

In other development, 40-year-old veteran Anthony Jay Washington, meanwhile, told BusinessMirror that he won’t be retiring yet. The 40-yearold was traded by TNT Tropang Giga for Blackwater’s Carl Bryan Cruz. He’s not on the Bossing’s 12-man roster.

as he is a certified point guard.

But with the ball securely locked in his hands and with VD all set to execute that logic-based plan for his team, one of the three referees blows his whistle.

Why is that? Why the game stoppage?

A goal-tending violation might have been committed by VD? Who initiated the halting of the game?

The aggrieved coach, whose team is behind by a solitary point?

Is that allowed? If yes, and his gripe is upheld, his team gets to lead by one. VD could just simply scratch his head in dismay watching at the pathetic proceedings?

In the National Basketball Association (NBA), that is not allowed. Without a whistle on a particular play, the game proceeds without delay.

The NBA sees no need for a so-called video review of the play. But that is not so in the PBA? Meaning, without a whistle being blown, the referees can still stop play and order a video review of the play?

Seemingly, yes?

If memory serves, I’ve already seen not just one case but two instances of that sort when a no call for that particular play cited above got referee-reversed after a video review—on the say-so of the men in stripe. The team behind a point eventually ended up the winner. By a point.

I hope I am wrong, Commissioner Willie (Marcial)?

Thursday and Friday. The administration has said Biden intends to use the meeting “to announce both individual and collective commitments, reforms, and initiatives to defend democracy and human rights at home and abroad.”

Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Robert Menendez, D-New Jersey, called such a diplomatic boycott “a necessary step to demonstrate our unwavering commitment to human rights in the face of the Chinese government’s unconscionable abuses.”

He called on “other allies and partners that share our values to join with the United States in this diplomatic boycott.” AP

And, speaking of PBA rules, let’s go to teams not 100 percent ready for the PBA Governors’ Cup that blasts off on Wednesday at the Ynares Center in Pasig City.

Their reason?

Their imports have yet to arrive.

Well, they cite the delay as being caused by the pandemic. To a certain degree, that’s valid.

But how come the other teams could comply? And, sadly, for being so punctual and law-abiding, they are being “punished” by subjecting them to tiresome every-other-day game assignments?

A bit unfair.

In the not-so-distant past, teams without imports are penalized and fined. If they play import-less, they are assessed corresponding fines—at times, hefty.

Has the PBA officialdom now waived the rules on penalties and fines?

I pray not. For that’d be circumvention of the rules. Weakens the foundations of the league we all love.

VD could even end up scratching his head non-stop.

THAT’S IT Congrats to Ed Picson for his election as president of ABAP (Alliance of Boxing Associations in the Philippines). I know your mission: Produce some more medals when the 2024 Paris Olympics comes around. All the best, Pareng Ed.

De la Noche, Iraya put up gallant stand vs Thais in world U19 tilt in Phuket

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HE Philippines’s Jayrack De La Noche and Alexander Iraya put up a gallant stand in a 15-21, 19-21 defeat to Thailand’s Narakorn Chumaphai and Veerayut Sopati in the FIVB Beach Volleyball U19 World Championships on Tuesday in Phuket, Thailand.

The Negrense pair was able to save two match points, the last an Iraya service ace, to cut the Thais’ lead to 19-20.

But Iraya’s serve went wide in the next rally, allowing the Thais, fourth placers in the Third Asian U19 Championships in Nakhon Pathom last July, to escape with the straight-set win in Pool H. De La Noche and Iraya seeks to bounce back against Australia’s Jack Pearse and Lucas Josefsen at 3 p.m. Wednesday.

The Filipinos—fielded in the tournament by the Philippine National Volleyball Federation and backed by the Philippine Sports Commission, Rebisco, Asics and Taguig City Rep. Alan Peter Cayetano—will wrap up their pool play stint against Estonia’s Karmo Saviauk and Kaur Erik Kais on Thursday.

De La Noche and Iraya are vying in their third international competition. The University of Santo Tomas standouts made their debut last July in the Asian U19 and U21 Championships in Nakhon Pathom.

De La Noche and Iraya, ranked No. 351 in the FIVB men’s world rankings, made a historic run to the quarterfinals of the Fourth Asian U21 Championships.

There are 32 teams in the main draw which consists of eight pools.

The top three teams in each pool will advance to the Round of 24.

A total of 72 teams (36 men and 36 women) from 31 countries are competing in the tournament that ends Saturday.

GIANNIS AT WORK The Milwaukee Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo drives past the Cleveland Cavaliers’ Jarrett Allen during the second half of their National Basketball Association game Monday in Milwaukee.

The Bucks won, 112-104. AP

Nouri, Canino zero in on title

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IDE Master Alekhine Nouri and Ruelle Canino beat their respective foes to close in on topping their divisions in the National Juniors Chess Championships at the PACE Center in Quezon City on Tuesday.

Nouri, 15, smashed Christian Olaybal and Johnmari Joseph Lu to pace the boys’ side with six points after seven rounds.

Canino, 13, downed Bea Mendoza to stay atop the girls’ section with seven points after the eighth and penultimate round.

Nouri and Canino took the lead after watching their erstwhile coleaders—Adrian Othniel Yulo and Mhage Sebastian—held to draws

by Ronald Canino and Vic Glysen Derotas, respectively.

Yulo has 5.5 points while Sebastian 6.5 in this event supported by National Chess Federation of the Philippines president Prospero “Butch” Pichay, Philippine Sports Commission chairman William “Butch” Ramirez, Philippine Olympic Committee president Rep. Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino and Chess Movement Inc. chairman Dr. Ariel Potot.

Nouri could clinch the title if scores 1.5 points against Canino, elder brother of Ruelle Canino, and Rilloroza in the last two rounds.

Canino only needs a draw with Derotas, the reigning ladies juniors champion, in the last round to emerge winner.