BusinessMirror February 03, 2022

BSP: Growth alone won’t heal Covid’s scars

By Bianca Cuaresma @BcuaresmaBM

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HE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said on Wednesday that the pandemic’s underlying economic scars may not be fully reversed by a pickup in growth momentum alone.

In the Central Bank’s Financial Stability Report for the Second Semester of 2021, as published on Wednesday, the BSP said while the improving economic environment is a “welcome turnaround” from the “bleak” figures earlier in the pandemic, the economic effects of the pandemic on the poor and more vulnerable sectors of the economy

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will not be easily reversed as they were disproportionately affected by the crisis.

In the case of bank deposits, the BSP said there were indications that affected households withdrew from their bank deposits to supplement their income during the pandemic. The BSP also said a separate study showed that those living on government aid still had to draw from their savings for their daily expenses.

“There have been dislocations during the past two years, and these are not easily reversed by momentum alone, in large part because the downside risk to the vulnerable remains disproportion-

ate to the downside of the well-endowed,” the BSP said in its report.

Philippine economy The grew 7.7 percent in the last three months of the year, beating market expectations. The fourth quarter growth took the full year gross domestic product (GDP) expansion to 5.6 percent, beating the government’s target for the year.

The BSP cited in its report that in order to prevent the poor from getting poorer in the coming years, stronger accessibility for the vulnerable to public health is key.

This includes access to hospital beds, vaccine shots and medical supplies for the poorer sector of the economy.

The Central Bank report also said purchasing power—particularly to the vulnerable—needs to be enhanced.

The BSP also flagged the potential aversion of the economy to face-to-face manual labor, as the country shifts to more technologically advanced processes to avoid interaction.

“A medium-term concern is the fit of the labor force to the needs of the New Economy. The latter will see a bifurcation where one segment will require less physical contact and rely more on technology, while other economic See “BSP,” A2

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BTr fully awards P35B in re-issued 5-yr T-bonds

By Bianca Cuaresma @BcuaresmaBM

HE Philippines’s manufacturing activity weakened at the start of the year, as the country grappled with the surge in Covid-19 cases and the negative effects of Typhoon Odette, according to an international think tank.

In a report, IHS Markit said the country’s Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) hit 50 in January, falling from 51.8 in December 2021.

The latest result brought an end to four successive months of growth in PMI. A country’s PMI gauges the health of its manufacturing sector.

It is calculated as a weighted average of five individual subcomponents. Readings above 50 show growth in the industry while readings below the 50 threshold signal a contraction in the manufacturing sector. A reading of 50, meanwhile, showed no change to the sector.

The think tank attributed the weaker activity during the month to the fall in output in January. According to IHS Markit, production volumes decreased at the quickest rate for five months with panel comments linking the decline to pandemic restrictions, adverse weather conditions and a lack of raw materials.

“The latest PMI data revealed an unfortunate start to the year for the Philippines manufacturing sector, with the surge in case See “PHL,” A2

By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario

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A HORSE-DRAWN carriage is seen in front of the Bureau of the Treasury main office in historic Intramuros, Manila. The BTr on Wednesday fully awarded P35 billion in re-issued 5-year Treasury bonds (T-bonds) as investors shrugged off fears of multiple rate hikes from the US Federal Reserve. NONIE REYES

WTO TO END INVESTMENT FACILITATION TALKS IN ’22

By Tyrone Jasper C. Piad @Tyronepiad

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HE World Trade Organization (WTO) members reiterated their commitment to finalize the text negotiations this year for agreement on investment facilitation for development (IFD), which is seen to help boost sustainable economic growth in over 100 countries, including the Philippines.

The intergovernmental group met last month to resume the talks, discussing the priority issues that need to be ironed out in the coming months.

Among them are the scope of the agreement, most-favored nation/non-discrimination, special and differential treatment and preparatory work on investment facilitation “needs assessment,” Ambassador Mathias Francke said during the meeting.

“We need to work on these issues—both with a sense of urgency and aiming at finding compromise solutions—to allow us to meet the target date that we, ourselves, have set for the conclusion of the text negotiations,” Francke said.

“Some of these issues will likely require some participants to sit down together to find a possible way forward. If needed,

I will be available to facilitate those conversations—whereby any such possible way forward will be brought back to the plenary for discussion,” he added.

The next IFD meeting is slated this month. It intends to cover the investment facilitation needs assessments and future work program.

The recent meeting came after the issuance of a joint statement on IFD by 112 WTO members in December 2021.

“This year, I encourage you to keep up the positive momentum—as well as the results-oriented and eminently cooperative spirit in which these negotiations have been conducted so far,

aiming to concluding the text negotiations by the end of this year,” Francke said.

In the joint statement, signatories acknowledged that international investment and trade are crucial in driving the economy forward, stressing that IFD seeks to extend aid to developing and least-developed members in said aspects. Among these are technical assistance and capacity building.

The IFD agreement also intends to improve transparency and predictability of investment measures; simplify investmentrelated administrative See “WTO,” A2

HE Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) fully awarded P35 billion in re-issued 5-year Treasury bonds (T-bonds) as investors shrugged off fears of multiple rate hikes from the US Federal Reserve.

The T-bonds, which were initially issued in April 2021, still have a remaining life of 4 years and two months. The bonds are set to mature in March 2026.

The BTr said the auction attracted total tenders of P60.6 billion, more than 1.7 times the P35 billion offer. “[We made a] full award. Despite the hawkish tone from the [US] Fed, rates remained within market levels with expectation of cooling inflation and continued supportive monetary stance,” National Treasurer Rosalia V. De Leon said.

The security fetched an average rate of 4.089 percent. The interest rate reached a high of 4.125 and a low of 4 percent during the auction.

“With its decision, the committee raised the full program of P35 billion, bringing the total outstanding volume for the series to P247.1 billion,” the BTr said.

On Monday, the BTr data showed the national government’s total outstanding debt stood at P11.73 trillion as of endDecember 2021.

Of the total debt stock, BTr said 30.3 percent was sourced externally while 69.7 percent were domestic borrowings.

Domestic debt grew by P1.48 trillion or 22 percent for the year in line with the domestic borrowing program which favors domestic issuance to mitigate foreign exchange risk and support local capital market development.

The debt-to-GDP ratio was registered at 60.5 percent, rising from 54.6 percent a year ago.

However, the BTr said this is still within the accepted sustainable threshold as the economy continues to recover from the effects of the pandemic. For this year, the national government programmed to borrow P2.47 trillion.

PESO EXCHANGE RATES n US 51.1350 n JAPAN 0.4458 n UK 69.1499 n HK 6.5611 n CHINA 8.0288 n SINGAPORE 37.9171 n AUSTRALIA 36.4388 n EU 57.6445 n SAUDI ARABIA 13.6302 Source: BSP (February 2, 2022)

News BusinessMirror

A2 Thursday, February 3, 2022

BSP…

Continued from A1

activities need such person-toperson interaction by default,” the BSP report said.

With academic programs disrupted by the pandemic, the BSP said certain segments will not be prepared to compete and operate in the digital world.

“Production will gear up towards more digital means and this shift will likely tend to demand specialized skill sets. Even those activities which typically require face-to-face interaction such as personnel-intensive sales may see some shift from in-store activity to online platforms. While the benefits of technology should be maximized, there can be some early dislocation against manual labor. This needs some attention,” the BSP said.

The BSP also called for “inclusive recovery” going forward as the country exits the pandemic.

The Central Bank lauded the government’s efforts to distribute digitized amelioration during the pandemic. It also called for alignment of the labor force so everyone can participate in jobs in the new economy.

“Economic momentum cannot rely solely on the upper 50th percentile of the economy but ‘society’ has to think of the whole which has to include the situation of those at the lower-end of this socioeconomic distribution,” the BSP said.

www.businessmirror.com.ph

PCCI looks forward to further easing of mobility restrictions

By Tyrone Jasper C. Piad

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@Tyronepiad

ITH Covid-19 cases recently going down, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) is hoping for a further reopening of the economy and more mobility.

“We are looking forward to a more relaxed quarantine protocol,” PCCI President George T. Barcelon said in an event hosted by the Concerned Citizens and Doctors of the Philippines on Wednesday.

Currently, Metro Manila, along with Cavite, Bulacan, Rizal, Batanes, Biliran, Southern Leyte and Basilan, is under more relaxed Alert Level 2 (previously Alert Level 3) until February 15.

Barcelon said the Philippines can take a cue from other countries that have eased restrictions further, especially because the recent Omicron variant resulted in milder cases.

“They have come to realize that we have to live with Covid. We know that it is there,” he pointed out.

In relation to this, Barcelon also pushed for the reopening of the schools as the current remote study setup has impacted the quality of education and resulted in additional expenses for the students.

“It is a big burden for the low-income earner when they have to pay for broadband cards,” he said. “Many of them cannot afford laptops.”

With a further reopening of the economy, the PCCI official asked the government anew to offer free Covid-19 antigen testing kits to the public.

“While our primary goal is to vaccinate majority if not all Filipinos, it is equally important that rapid antigen test kits are made available and

affordable up to the grassroots level to curb the spread of Covid-19,” he said in a previous statement.

Noting the shortage in antigen test kit supplies, Barcelon advised the government to ramp up its procurement elsewhere to address the demand.

He said doing so can “bolster confidence in opening up the economy,” which can bode well

Win…

Continued from A12

For his part, Udenna’s communications office through Raymond Zorilla emailed energy reporters that: “At this juncture, we maintain that the acquisition of UC Malampaya Phils. Pte.,Ltd. [UCMP] of the shares of Chevron Philippines in Chevron Malampaya LLC is within the parameters of the law.”

At that time, both the DOE and Udenna camps said they have yet to receive the supposed complaint filed before the Office of the Ombudsman, but, Udenna stressed, “we will address all allegations raised against the company to prove that everything is done aboveboard.”

Law must be amended

IN view of what happened, Gatchalian said amendments must be introduced to strengthen PD 87 and also ensure that future service contractors and DOE officials will not repeat the same mistakes.

“The law is the law. Anyone who violates it must be punished to its full extent. I call on the proper authorities to promptly file administrative and criminal cases against Secretary Alfonso Cusi, who approved the deal, and other DOE officials who evaluated the Chevron-UC Malampaya deal and recommended its approval,” Gatchalian saidd.

WTO… Continued from A1

procedures; and enhance the communication between governments and investors.

“Investment facilitation for development discussions at the WTO are taking place against the back-

PHL…

Continued from A1

especially for the micro, small and medium enterprises.

In a separate statement on Wednesday, PCCI announced its partnership with the Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT) and private sector satellite service providers to pilot-test satellite broadband connectivity in remote areas.

The chairman of the Senate Energy committee pointed out the significance of the Malampaya facility, which powers more than four and a half million homes and businesses in Mega Manila alone. Six out of every 10 light bulbs in Meralco’s franchise area are powered by Malampaya gas. It contributes almost 20 percent of the entire country’s power generation mix.

Udenna Corporation spokesperson Atty. Raymond T. Zorilla sent BusinessM irror this statement on Senator Sherwin Gatchalian’s privilege speech on the Malampaya deal:

IN response to the privilege speech delivered by Senator Sherwin Gatchalian on the ChevronUC Malampaya deal, we in Udenna, as we have consistently stated, stand behind our previously issued statements that the Chevron transaction is a private sale of share conducted at parent company level with no change in the legal entities participating in the SC38 consortium nor any transfer of any rights or obligations.

As such, Department of Energy (DoE) approval is not required.

Section 16.4 of the SC38 Agreement and Section 1 of the DoE Circular executed under PD No.87 do not apply to these transactions.

1. Under Philippine law, there is a distinction between an assignment and a change of control.

2. In an assignment of participating interest, the assignment is regulated by PD No. 87 and DoE

“As we transition out of the pandemic, remote work and internet-enabled services in education, health, trade and supply chain management and even government services could remain to be the norm where possible,” Barcelon said.

As such, he said there is a need to scale up the digital infrastructure.

Circular 2007-04-0003 and prior approval by the DOE is required.

3. However, the transaction between UC Malampaya and Chevron Philippines, is a sale of the share of Chevron Malampaya LLC that resulted in a change of control.

4. Because the transaction is at the stockholder level, there is no change in the corporate entity that owns the 45% participating interest in Service Contract 38.

5. As there is no change in the corporate entity, neither PD no. 87 nor DoE Circular 200704-0003 applies because there is no assignment or transfer.

6. Consequently, the approval of DoE is not required.

7. Accordingly, in the Share Sale and Purchase Agreement, DoE approval is not one of the conditions precedent for the completion of the transaction.

We appreciate as well the demonstrated vigilance of the Department of Energy and Secretary Alfonso Cusi for conducting a detailed review even though not required by law, and to which all parties cooperated in.

To add, the Chevron transactions followed a competitive bidding processes with rigorous due diligence conducted by Chevron, the international lenders involved and the other parties in the SC38 consortium.

We in the Malampaya asset continue to be one with the desire of the Philippine Senate and the rest of the country to ensure a secure energy future for the country.

drop of an increasing and reinforcing relationship between trade and investment, which has the potential to foster economic growth and diversification, job creation and sustainable development,” WTO said.

Last month, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) set the investment approval target this year at P1 trillion. This, as several projects are currently in the pipeline and awaiting ap-

proval for incentives.

The DTI approved 235 projects amounting to P655.4 billion last year, which is below its P905billion target in 2021 and P1.02 trillion worth of investments greenlighted in 2020.

The agency attributed the lower investment approvals to “the rise of Delta cases and extended investors timeline for finalizing studies, decisions and registrations.”

numbers and typhoon Odette hitting large parts of the nation.

Anecdotal evidence suggested both factors weighed heavily on both domestic and international demand as well as firms’ ability to produce goods. Material shortages and delivery delays were also prominent, continuing pressure on vendor performance,” IHS Markit economist Shreeya Patel said.

The report also showed that tighter restrictions coupled with

higher prices of goods resulted in a weak demand environment.

With new orders and output falling in Januar y, the sur veyed firms continued to report that they will scale back their work force.

“Job shedding has now been seen in each of the last 23 months, though the latest fall was the joint-softest in the current period of decline and only marginal,” the report said.

Manufacturing firms said that the effects of the surge and of the typhoon could linger on for a few more months. Patel also said it might take a while for firms to readjust and gain back their growth momentum.

“Whilst the full impact of the typhoon and the Omicron variant are unknown, it’s clear production will certainly be impacted in the coming months as companies adapt once again.

Firms will hope for a quick recovery and remain prepared through advance ordering strategies,” Patel said.

The Nation BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Atienza says he will not just be a ‘spare tire’ if elected VP

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HOULD he win in the May 2022 elections, vice presidential aspirant Lito Atienza vowed not to allow himself to be just a “spare tire” of the President.

In an inter view on DZBB last Tuesday, Deputy Speaker Lito Atienza said he would push for pro-life measures while working as a “super aide” of presidential aspirant Manny Pacquiao.

Atienza is running for vice president with Pacquiao as his president under the PROMDI political party.

“I believe that human life is sacred, I respect life, we should promote the appreciation of life,” said Atienza.

“I will fight for these ‘antilife measures’ [including] abortion and divorce, which [are] both destroying Filipino families. We should push for a solid Filipino family, [we should] respect the life of everyone, specially the poor.

Protect the family as well the poor so they can enjoy family life,” he added.

Atienza has said that he believes that proper interventions should be given to couples facing troubled marriages and not absolute divorce.

Citing the Constitution, the lawmaker has earlier said that marriage is an inviolable institution, so Congress should not pass law that would weaken that provision.

Only with Pacquiao

ATIENZA also said he only sees himself working well with “best available” among all presidential candidates—Pacquiao.

“I will be an effective ‘super aide’ of the president; that is the role that I will serve as vice president,” Atienza said.

“I don’t want to hold a Cabinet portfolio. I just want to help you [Pacquiao] on a day-to-day basis so you would always have an aide,” he added.

Atienza said he requested to hold office in Malacañang.

“So anytime you [Pacquiao] want to talk to me, I’ll just be outside your office. Anytime we need to meet on something and decide on something for the nation, I’m just near [Pacquiao],” he said.

“I’ll be more specific. If Bongbong Marcos becomes president, I don’t want to be vice president. If the next president will be Leni Robredo, I would rather not be VP. I would rather just retire and be on my own,” Atienza said.

Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz

Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug • Thursday, February 3, 2022 A3

Brigade Combat Teams: US Army offers support to boost PA’s fighting capability

By Rene Acosta @reneacostaBM

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HE US Army has offered its assistance to its Philippine counterpart over the possible formation of brigade-size quick reaction forces as the Philippine Army eyes to strengthen its capability.

The offer was made by General Charles Flynn, commanding general of the US Army, Pacific (USARPAC), during his virtual talk on Tuesday

with Philippine Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. “Gen. Flynn added that the USARPAC is willing to share lessons and expertise in the creation of quick reaction deployable Brigade Combat Teams [BCTs] in order to enhance the combined arms capability of the Philippine Army,” said Army spokesman Col. Xerxes Trinidad.

The formation of BCTs was proposed by Brawner, who had earlier vowed to enhance the skills of sol-

diers as one of his priorities to further bolster the capabilities of Army units as fighting forces.

The whole military has already an existing single brigade combat team, the 1st Brigade Combat Team, which when it took its maiden deployment three years ago by way of Sulu, was attacked by a suicide bomber.

The virtual talk, where both armies further bolstered closer ties, was the first between Flynn and Brawner since the latter was desig-

nated as the commander of the Army.

Brawner used the opportunity to thank Flynn for the US Army’s continuing support to the Philippine Army.

“We just want to express our gratitude for all the support that you have been giving the Philippine Army through our trainings, exchanges, and exercises,” Brawner said.

According to Trinidad, the Army commander also thanked the US military for helping its Philippine coun-

terpart in beefing up its capabilities.

“He specifically conveyed his gratitude to USARPAC for providing military assistance and technical intelligence to PA [Philippine Army], which proved instrumental in defeating ISIS-inspired terrorists that attacked and occupied Marawi City in 2017,” Trinidad said.

Brawner informed Flynn of his plans to send this year a company-size delegation to the Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center in Hawaii.

US warning vs travel to PHL not seen to be a deal breaker

By Ma. Stella F. Arnaldo @akosistellaBM Special to the BusinessMirror

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SECURE THE PERIMETER

Members of the Police Protection Group of the Manila Police District tighten the security around the vicinity of the main office of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) at the Palacio Del Gobernador building in Intramuros, Manila, amid infighting among Comelec commissioners over an election disqualification case. ROY DOMINGO

BBM urges supporters to discredit fake news seeking to split UniTeam

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ITH absolute certainty, the bind that keeps the mutual trust and respect between myself and Mayor Inday Sara remains unsoiled. And it will remain so,” aspiring president and former Sen. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. declared on Monday in reaction to fabricated reports seeking to sow discord among members of the UniTeam.

“Our commitment to each other and the entire UniTeam is unconditional and stronger than ever. It is unbreakable,” he added, referring to the growing rapport between him and Mayor Sara.

Bongbong has warned the public, especially his supporters, against fake news being peddled by their political opponents designed to drive a wedge between him and his running mate Inday Sara Duterte.

In a news statement, Marcos described the fake news purveyors as desperate, noting that they are now resorting to disinformation and underhanded tactics “to sow discord among BBM-Sara alliances and break up his partnership with Mayor Sara.”

“And while I believe that attempts to put a wedge between my unconditional partnership with Mayor Sara will persist as the election gets closer, I am also calling on all our supporters to be vigilant in guarding the hardearned trust and harmony among us,” Marcos pointed out.

Fake news about his camp allegedly having “secret meetings” with Sen. Tito Sotto is reportedly circulating, together with a storified gossip in a political web site that his wife Liza is supporting the vice presidential bid of Sotto.

“I am calling on my supporters worldwide to be discerning about these pieces of disinformation and discredit them as they’re but figments of the imagination of those who have lost hope in a fair and honest election,” he continued.

“Desperate politicians are on the move to sow discord among members of the BBM-Sara alliances with clear intent to weaken, if not break, my partnership with Mayor Sara,” he said.

“With the faith and loyalty of our supporters to the UniTeam and their dedication to its goal, I am certain that we shall survive these fake news and other distasteful political challenges to enable us to collectively push our firm resolve to unify the country and give our fellowmen the future that they deserve,” he stressed.

ASHINGTON’S latest travel advisory against the Philippines will likely have little impact on its citizens, who have been patiently waiting to travel to the Philippines, said a tourism leader. The country recently decided to reopen to fully vaccinated foreign travelers from visa-free countries, which includes the United States, starting February 10.

In an interview with the BusinessMirror, Jose C. Clemente III, president of the 50-year-old Rajah Tours Philippines, said, “In recent years, you take the travel advisory in consideration, but not as much before, when we (Philippines) result in zero arrivals.” He added, none of his overseas clients have reached out to him about the travel advisory. “Honestly, I don’t anticipate any questions about it. The way I see it, people are so hungry to travel right now… sure they will take it into consideration, but it won’t be a deal breaker.”

Clemente said he just regularly sends informs his clients about the latest case bulletins issued by the Department of Health. He assumes because most of them are already vaccinated, or have gotten sick, any US advisory won’t impact on their travel plans.

The US State Department issued a Level 4 travel advisory on January 31, urging its citizens not to travel to the Philippines due to the recent surge in Covid cases. It also advises to “exercise increased caution due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping,” in Sulu, Marawi City, and other areas in Mindanao. Level 4 is the highest travel advisory of the government agency.

Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo Puyat failed to respond to this paper’s several requests for a comment on the US travel advisory.

Instead, the Department of Tourism issued a news statement reiterating that the country was ready to accept foreign visitors as tourism workers have already been fully vaccinated.

The agency said it will be focusing its efforts on key markets such as South Korea, Japan, the United States, Australia, Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Malaysia, Germany and Hong Kong.

No more RT-PCR tests for Boracay travelers

Clemente said when the Philippines announced its reopening to foreign tourists, his clients “were extremely happy. We’ve already been receiving inquiries from the US. Our San Francisco office is entertaining a booking from a group of 30, who already want to come. So overall, the announcement had a positive effect.”

He stressed that the bulk of foreign tourists will likely travel to the Philippines during the Winter Season, but “60-70 percent [of my clients] are already firm to come in April, May, June; they were already asking about [our company’s] deposit policies.”

Meanwhile, the Aklan government is no longer requiring fully vaccinated visitors to submit a negative RT-PCR result when traveling to Boracay Island, as the country prepares to receive foreign visitors. Prior to the pandemic, in 2019, some 1 million foreign tourists visited Boracay, making it the second top tourist destination in the country after Cebu.

According to Executive Order 001 dated February 1, 2022, Aklan Gov. FlorecencioT.Miraflores,however,kept the province’s requirement for tourists, both local and foreign, to fill out an online health declaration card, and secure a QR code. In the past, the QR code has been a source of complaints by Boracay visitors due to the LGU’s delay in processing their requests.

Randy Salvador, general manager of Coast Boracay, said the island “is ready to receive foreign visitors. “The vaccination rate for tourists workers and residents is more than the required herd immunity already. As long as the local government implements the minimum health standards and business establishments follow, I am confident there will be no more surge [in Covid cases].”

Mayor Sara on Day 2 of ‘Mahalin Natin Probers trace TikTok user behind kill Bongbong plot ang Pilipinas’ country motorbike tour

By Joel R. San Juan @jrsanjuan1573

By Manuel T. Cayon @awimailbox Mindanao Bureau Chief

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AVAO CITY—Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio entered her Day 2 Wednesday of a motorbike country road trip timed to join her tandem in a presidential proclamation rally on February 8 at the Iglesia ni Cristo-owned Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan.

Duterte-Carpio was expected to reach Surigao City on Wednesday, after she started her big bike run on Tuesday at the compound of Pastor Apollo Quiboloy’s Jose Maria College and dome beside the airport. Tuesday’s first leg was Davao City-Bislig City in Surigao del Sur. She said the list indicate a cara-

van of 70 vehicles and 60 motorcycle bikers, many of whom are members of the On Any Sunday Riders Club, to which President Rodrigo Duterte is its prime member. “I’ll be with my big bike Elsa a Yamaha Tenere 700!

See you all soon!,” she said, in introducing her big bike.

Former Presidential spokesman Harry Roque and Sen. Jinggoy Estrada were among those who joined the sendoff ceremony. Both are in the UniTeam senatorial ticket.

The “Mahalin Natin ang Pilipinas Ride” (MNPR) started shortly after 6 a.m. Tuesday, with a first of 20 stops in Tagum City where she inaugurated the Marcos-Sara Duterte Alliance (Masada) provincial headquarters. She was welcomed by local supporters and the provincial

government leaders led by Davao de Oro Gov. Tyron Uy, Vice Governor Maricar Zamora, First District Rep. Manuel “WayKurat” Zamora and other members of the provincial Hugpong ng Pagbabago slate.

Some nine hours and 20 stops later, Duterte and her group arrived in Bislig City in Surigao del Sur, some 226 kilometers away. Usually, a trip to Bislig from Davao only takes around five hours.

In Bislig City, Duterte graced the opening of the Lakas-CMD Provincial Headquarters with party National Party Secretary General Prospero Pichay and wife, Cantilan Mayor Carla Pichay. Sara also met with Surigao del Sur Gov. Alexander Pimentel and Rep. Johnny Pimentel in a separate event in Bislig City.

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HE Department of JusticeOffice of Cybercrime (DOJOOC) on Monday said authorities have made an initial identification of the person who posted in social-media platform TikTok the alleged assassination plot against presidential frontrunner Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. However, DOJ-OOC head, lawyer Charito Zamora begged off from disclosing the identity of the person as the National Bureau of Investigation-Cybercrime Division (NBI-CCD) and the Philippine National Police-Anti Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) are still in the collecting more evidence to pin down the culprit.

“There is initial information as to who but I’m not at liberty to say

because the investigation being conducted by our investigation agents is still ongoing,” Zamora said.

In fact, Zamora said, investigators are still gathering information to support the application for a disclosure warrant in order to compel TikTok Law Enforcement Outreach to open the account of the person who posted the threat for probe.

“As to the disclosure warrant, yes we still need a warrant before Tiktok shall divulge the information that we requested them to preserve,” Zamora said.

Zamora earlier said the DOJOOC has e-mailed the TikTok Law Enforcement Outreach and requested the law enforcement agents concerned preserve the data related to the subject account pending investigation.

Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra has said the justice department considers the post as a serious threat to Marcos’s safety.

“If a bomb joke is actionable, so is a threat of assassination, whether true or not,” Guevarra said.

The account under investigation, according to Zamora, commented a serious threat against Marcos to a TikTok video posted by another TikTok account with username @joiedevivre420.

The post read: “Nagme-meeting kami araw-araw para paghandaang ipa-assassinate naming si BBM. Humanda kayo. [We are meeting everyday to plan for BBM’s assassination. Get ready.]”

The camp of Marcos has expressed concern about the alleged assassination plot but assured that this would not affect his campaign for the presidency.

Economy BusinessMirror

A4 Thursday, February 3, 2022 • Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug

Customs exceeds January collection goal by 11.58%

By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario

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HE Bureau of Customs (BOC) has surpassed its collection target in January 2022.

BOC said it overshot its target by 11.58 percent or P6.035 billion in January this year. Total collections reached P58.158 billion in the first month of 2022, higher than the expected P52.123 billion.

“The positive revenue collection

performance is attributed to the improved valuation, intensified enforcement against illegal importations, improved compliance by traders to Customs laws,” BOC said in a news statement. “ T he gradual improvement of importation volume, and the government’s effort in ensuring unhampered movement of goods domestically and internationally, [also contributed to the performance],” it added.

Based on the preliminary report from the BOC-Financial Service, a total of 14 out of the 17 collection districts hit their targets in January 2022.

These ports include San Fernando, Manila, Manila International Container Port, Batangas, Legaspi, Iloilo, Cebu, Surigao, Zamboanga, Davao, Subic, Clark, Aparri, and Limay.

Last year, the bureau surpassed its annual revenue collection target

by 4.7 percent or P29.036 billion, collecting a total of P645.785 billion against its P616.749 billion target, based on the preliminary report from the BOC-Financial Service.

TheBOCisthe2ndlargestrevenuegenerating government agency next to the Bureau of Internal Revenue.

For the past 2 years, the BOC was able to surpass its annual target collection by 6.23 percent and 4.7 percent respectively even during a global health crisis.

Senate approves 30 higher education bills boosting SUCs

By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM

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HE Senate, aiming to strengthen higher education, unanimously passed on final reading 30 enabling bills aimed at boosting State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), at the same time, establishing additional provincial offices of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) across the country.

Sen. Joel Villanueva, chair of the Senate Committee on Higher, Technica l and Vocationa l Education, sponsored these 30 local bills last Monday, January 31, 2022.

“We believe the passage of these bills will open a bright future in higher education for each and every one of the 3.64 million students,” Villanueva said in his manifestation during the passage of the bills in the Senate session.

Among the bills approved were House Bill Nos. (HBN) 9518 and 9520 strengthening the charters of Batangas State University and Tarlac State University, respectively.

The Upper Chamber also gave its nod to seven bills converting and recognizing the following campuses into regular campuses: Cebu Technological University-Pinamungajan Campus (HBN 9075); Cebu Technological UniversityBalamban campus (HBN 9150); Cagayan State University-Solana campus (HBN 9179); Polytechnic University of the Philippines Alfonso-Maragondon Annex Campus (HBN 9347); Polytechnic University of the Philippines-Cabiao Campus (HBN 8131); Cebu Technological University-Consolacion Campus (HBN 8040); Puerto Princesa Campus and external campuses of the College of Community Resources Development of the Palawan State

University (HBN 6975).

Also approved on final reading were five measures seeking to establish additional campuses in various SUCs to bring educational opportunities closer to students living in remote areas: University of Eastern Philippines campuses in Allen, Victoria, and Lavezares, Northern Samar (HBN 7879); Polytechnic University of the Philippines-Leyte campus (HBN 8985); Cebu Technological University campuses in Toledo City and Asturias in Cebu (HBN 9180); Polytechnic University of the Philippines-Sta. Rosa campus (HBN 5738); and Polytechnic University of the Philippines-Caloocan City North Campus (HBN 6739).

The Senate likewise approved on third reading HBN 7841, converting the Iligan City National School of Fisheries into Polytechnic State College; HBN 9528, renaming the

Adiong Memorial Polytechnic State College into the Adiong Memoral State College; and HBN 10283 converting the Northern Negros State College of Science and Technology into the State University of Northern Negros.

Meanwhile, 13 bills establishing CHED provincial offices to promote quality education and ensure accessibility to the commission’s services in various parts of the country were also approved on final reading.

CHED provincial offices are soon to rise in Zamboanga Sibugay (HBN 4957); Negros Occidental (HBN 4958); Ilocos Sur (HBN 6974); Misamis Occidental (HBN 7017); Ilocos Norte (HBN 7018); Davao Oriental (HBN 7447); Sorsogon (HBN 7516); Bohol (HBN 7695); Northern Samar (HBN 7969); Bataan (HBN 8446); Kalinga (HBN 8453); Mountain Province (HBN 8656); and San Jose, Mindoro (HBN 9342).

Marawi compensation bill awaits Duterte’s signature

By Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz @joveemarie

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HE bill that will provide compensation to the victims of the 2017 Marawi Siege is now awaiting President Duterte’s signature.

This after the House of Representatives adopted on Wednesday the Senate version of the proposed Marawi Siege Victims Compensation Act. The bill aims to provide compensation for the loss or destruction of private property brought about by the five-month battle between government forces and Islamist extremists.

Under the measure, monetary claims may be made for residential, cultural, commercial and other properties such as home appliances, jewelry, machineries, and equipment that were affected in the siege. The compensation measure covers 32 barangays, 24 of which are located in the Most Affected Area (MAA).

“We know that the enactment of this measure has been long overdue, but we understand that care and caution should

be taken to come up with a law that will truly respond to the needs of the people of Marawi,”saidDeputySpeakerMujivHataman, former governor of the now-defunct AutonomousRegioninMuslimMindanao.

The bill seeks to institutionalize the Task Force Bangon Marawi to achieve the objectives set in the Marawi Recovery, Rehabilitation, and Reconstruction Program (MRRRP). Anak Mindanao Party-list Rep. Amihilda Sangcopan said the passage of the Marawi Compensation bill would help the immediate return of the people to their homes.

“We wanted the basic principles and guidelines of international human rights and humanitarian laws on the right to remedy and reparation of persons whose rights were violated and whose economic, social and cultural rights were affected by armed conflicts are present,” she said.

The five-month battle destroyed 24 Marawi villages and displaced over a hundred thousand Maranaos. It was also estimated that up to P17 billion worth of property and economic opportunities were lost.

Oceana to govt officials: Protect ocean’s health

By Tyrone Jasper C. Piad @TyronePiad

A

NONPROFIT ocean conservation organization called on current and future government officials to prioritize the health of the ocean, asking for proactive and long-term solutions when it comes to environmental protection.

Oceana Vice President Gloria Estenzo Ramos, in a news statement issued on Wednesday, said that “urgent action for environmental protection, preservation, and restoration should be at the forefront of the agenda of all our Filipino leaders, including those who are seeking national and local offices in the May 2022 elections.”

Ramos said the country, given its biodiversity, has a “strong” legal framework for environmental protection, cit-

ing ecosystem-based management from ridge to reef.

“Despite this, its fragile natural ecosystems continue to suffer from natural resource overexploitation and unsustainable development practices as implementation of our laws is weak,” she said.

Among the harmful activities she cited are dump-and-fill (reclamation) projects, pollution and illegal fishing practices. Ramos said these resulted in “serious and alarming decline of coral reefs, mangroves and fisheries resources.”

“Along with the staggering impacts of climate change, the country has to respond immediately and mainstream the health and resilience of our natural ecosystems and people by ensuring science-based management through a just, inclusive, transparent and accountable governance of the natural world,” Ramos said.

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Comelec deposits AES source codes to BSP vault

By Bianca Cuaresma @BcuaresmaBM

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HE Commission on Elections (Comelec) has formally turned over the Automated Election System (AES) source codes to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) on Wednesday.

The entire turnover of source codes, which were enclosed in two metal separate cases, including the journey from the Comelec to the BSP was live streamed via the BSP’s Facebook page.

Just last week, the BSP and the poll body formally entered into a legal agreement for the deposit of the AES source code to the BSP’s coffers in the National Capital Region (NCR).

Asked on the procedures on the security of the source codes, BSP managing director Rosabel Guerrero said in a briefing on Wednesday, “When you go to the basement, only the BSP can open that vault. So Comelec cannot enter that without the BSP.” “But once you enter that vault,

that par ticu lar compar tment where the AES source codes are stored, that can be opened only by Comelec. It would be the executive director who has that key—that is a dual padlock. And then, you have a combination lock—which is also under the sole responsibility of the Comelec. So the BSP cannot have access to that,” Guerrero added. “ The source code, really, is the heart and soul of the automated election system, and the fact that we have the source code here where it is protected from all dangers gives us a guarantee that the source code that we will be using on election day is trustworthy,” Comelec spokesman James Jimenez said.

Under Republic Act No. 9369, to ensure free, orderly, honest, peaceful, credible, and informed elections, Comelec is mandated to place in escrow the source codes to BSP for safekeeping.

In the 2010, 2013, 2016, and 2019 elections, all source codes were deposited i n t he BSP ’s vault.

DepEd shifts to expansion phase of F-to-F classes in NCR, regions

By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco @claudethmc3

E

DUCATION Secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones announced on Wednesday that she has already authorized all Department of Education (DepEd) regional directors to commence with the progressive expansion phase of face-to-face (F-to-F) classes for both public and private schools.

The Department of Education (DepEd) said that a total of 304 public schools are located in Alert Level 2 areas, including 118 schools in National Capital Region (NCR) cities; 12 in Batanes; 106 in Bulacan; 33 in Cavite; 21 in Rizal; five in Biliran, and nine in Southern Leyte.

“As of today, no face-to-face classes are ongoing because the schools are on their mid-year break for February 2 to 5 under SY (school year) 2021-2022 calendar. The Academic Quarter 3 is set to start on February 7, but certain divisions may start on a later date following the class suspensions during the Omicron surge and on account of Typhoon Odette in certain affected areas,” the department said.

Meanwhile, Department of Health (DOH) Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said that under Alert Level 2, F-to-F classes are allowed.

“It would depend on the discussion of DepEd with the local governments concerned kung makakapagpatuloy po tayo. But just to reiterate there are conditions po,” Vergeire said citing he commitment of the local government units (LGU) and the assessment if the school is already capable to conduct F-to-F classes and vaccination.

“We encourage all mothers, and local governments to let us vaccinate our children, just in case the cases will go down, the children can continue to go to school already,” Vergeire added.

During the joint Execom-Mancom meeting held on February 2, 2022, the regional directors in areas under Alert Level 2 reported varying commencement dates for their expansion phases, as follows: NCR—The original 28 pilot schools will resume on February 9, while the expansion schools will progressively start their classes from February 9 onwards.

Region 2 (Cagayan Valley)—The 12 recommended schools in Schools Division Office (SDO) Batanes (now under Alert Level 2) are ready to implement the expanded F-to-F classes. The SDO is also securing the concurrence of the local chief executives where the 12 schools are strategically located. Should the

LGUs approve the conduct, F-to-F e classes in Batanes will start next week (February 7 to 11).

Region 3 (Central Luzon)—There are 106 schools in four SDOs of Bulacan that are ready to start F-to-F classes on February 21, 2022.

Region 4A (Calabarzon)—A total of 57 schools from eight SDOs in the provinces of Rizal (21 schools) and Cavite (36 schools) (under Alert Level 2) are slated to participate in the expanded phase of the limited F-to-F classes. These schools have complied with the requirements of the School Safety and Assessment Tool (SSAT) and are now in the process of securing concurrence from the LGUs. Expanded F-to-F classes will start on February 14, in time for the start of the third quarter.

Region 8 (Eastern Visayas)—In Southern Leyte and Biliran City SDOs that are in Alert Level 2, three schools of SDO Southern Leyte will start classes on February 7 while Maasin City (seven schools) and Biliran City (6 schools) will kick off on February 14.

The rest of the Regions, as well as divisions in the above regions outside of those already under Alert Level 2, are continuing their preparations for the expanded phase of F-to-F classes in anticipation of improvement in the Covid Alert Level in their respective areas.

Meanwhile, pending the issuance of a Revised Joint Memorandum for the expansion phase, the main protocols and standards in the DepEdDOH Joint Memorandum Circular 001, s. 2021 shall remain applicable as appropriate, with the following main parameters for inclusion: 1. Expansion schools have been validated as compliant with the standards of SSAT 2. Schools must be located in areas under alert levels 1 and 2 based on the periodic risk assessment by DOH 3. Schools may already include other grade levels based on the capacity of schools 4. Schools or Division must have secured the concurrence of the local chief executive in the city or municipality where the expansion school is located, and the schools must also have taken the proper coordination with their respective barangay officials 5. Students participating in Fto-F classes must have the written consent of their parents 6. Schools are given flexibility in contact time for teaching and learning, provided that meals are not taken in school except during managed recess.

7. Only vaccinated teachers may participate in the F-to-F classes, and vaccinated learners shall be preferred.

www.businessmirror.com.ph • Editor: Angel R. Calso

The World

Pfizer asks US to allow Covid vaccine for children under 5

W

ASHINGTON—Pfizer on Tuesday asked the US to authorize extralow doses of its Covid-19 vaccine for children under 5, potentially opening the way for the very youngest Americans to start receiving shots as early as March.

In an extraordinary move, the Food and Drug Administration had urged Pfizer and its partner BioNTech to apply earlier than the companies had planned—and before it’s settled if the youngsters will need two shots or three.

The nation’s 19 million children under 5 are the only group not yet eligible for vaccination against the coronavirus. Many parents have been pushing for an expansion of shots to toddlers and preschoolers, especially as the omicron variant sent record numbers of youngsters to the hospital.

“I would say the parents in my office are desperate” to get young kids vaccinated, said Dr. Dyan Hes, who runs a pediatrics practice in New York City, where vaccination rates are high. For many, “that’s the first thing they ask when they walk through the door: ‘When do you think the shot is going to come out?’”

Pfizer aims to give children as young as 6 months shots that contain one-tenth of the dose given to adults. The company said it had started submitting its data to the FDA and expects to complete the process in a few days.

An open question is how many shots those children will need.

Two of the extra-low doses turned out to be strong enough for babies but not for preschoolers in early testing. Pfizer now is testing a third shot, data that’s expected in late March.

That means the FDA may consider whether to authorize two shots for now, with potentially a third shot being cleared later if the study supports it.

Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla said in a statement that company scientists believe this age group ultimately will need three of the extra low-dose shots but that FDA action now could let parents begin the vaccination process while awaiting a final decision.

The FDA said it will convene a panel of independent researchers and physicians in mid-February to help review the Pfizer data.

The agency isn’t required to follow their advice, but the input is a key step in publicly vetting vaccine safety and effectiveness.

The question of how long to wait for new vaccine data—and how much to require—is a concern for FDA regulators, who face pressure to be more proactive against a virus that has repeatedly confounded health experts.

The FDA asked Pfizer to begin submitting its application now due to omicron’s “greater toll on children,” an agency spokeswoman said, citing a peak in cases among children under 5.

“In light of these new data and the rise in illnesses and hospitalization in this youngest age group, FDA believed that it was prudent to request that Pfizer submit the data it had available,” agency spokeswoman Stephanie Caccomo said

in an emailed statement.

The FDA’s ultimate decision could come within the month, but that isn’t the only hurdle. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also has to sign off.

The Biden administration has been trying to speed the authorization of Covid-19 shots for children, contending vaccinations are critical for opening schools and day care centers and keeping them open, and for freeing up parents from child care duties so they can go back to work.

Yet vaccination rates have been lower among children than in other age groups. As of last week, just 20 percent of kids ages 5 to 11 and just over half of 12- to 17-year-olds were fully vaccinated, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Nearly three-quarters of adults are fully vaccinated.

Young children are far less likely than adults to get severely ill from the coronavirus, but it can happen, and pediatric Covid-19 infections are higher than at any other point in the pandemic.

“What we’re seeing right now is still a lot of hospitalizations and unfortunately some deaths in this age group,” said Dr. Sean O’Leary of the University of Colorado, who is on the AAP’s infectious disease committee. If the FDA clears vaccinations for these youngsters, “that’s going to be really important because all of those hospitalizations and deaths essentially are preventable.”

For kids under 5, Pfizer’s study is giving participants two shots three weeks apart, followed by a third dose at least two months later. The company is testing whether the youngsters produce antibody levels similar to those known to protect teens and young adults.

In December, Pfizer announced that children under 2 looked to be protected but that the antibody response was too low in 2- to 4-yearolds. It’s not clear why, but one possibility is that the extra-low dose was a little too low for the preschoolers.

Since the preliminary results showed the shots were safe, Pfizer added a third dose to the testing in hopes of improving protection.

A K aiser Family Foundation poll found just 3 in 10 parents of children under 5 would get their youngster vaccinated as soon as shots were authorized, while about a quarter said they definitely would not. Results of the sur vey of 1,536 adults, conducted in mid-January, were released Tuesday.

Chicago health officials have been trying to prepare parents for months for the day the shots are available, said Dr. Nimmi Rajagopal, a family medicine physician for Cook County Health, which oversees the public hospital system. Some parents wonder how rigorously the shots will be evaluated or have other questions that she said are critical to address.

Rajagopal is excited about getting her own 2-year-old son vaccinated if FDA clears the way, so it will be safer for him to play with other children.

“I have been waiting and waiting and waiting,” she said. AP

BusinessMirror

Thursday, February 3, 2022

A5

Denmark cuts restrictions; rest of Europe a patchwork

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OPENHAGEN, Denmark— Denmark took the European Union lead Tuesday by scrapping most pandemic restrictions as the Scandinavian country no longer considers Covid-19 “a socially critical disease.” European nations elsewhere had a patchwork of different approaches, with some relaxing virus measures while others tightened them.

Officials say the reason for the Danish move is that while the Omicron variant is surging in the country, it’s not placing a heavy burden on the health system and Denmark has a high vaccination rate.

Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen told Danish radio it’s too early to know if virus restrictions ever have to make a comeback.

“I dare not say that it is a final goodbye to restrictions,” she said.

“We do not know what will happen in the fall, whether there will be a new variant.”

Denmark, a nation of 5.8 million, has in recent weeks seen more than 50,000 new cases a day but the number of Covid-19 patients in hospital intensive care units has dropped.

S ome ot he r n at ion s we re moving in the same direction as Denmark.

Last week, England lifted almost all domestic restrictions: masks are not mandatory anywhere, vaccine passes are not required for any venue and people are no longer advised to work from home. The only legal requirement is to self-isolate after a positive Covid test.

Ireland has dropped most of its restrictions and the Netherlands also has been easing its lockdown, although Dutch bars and restau-

rants still have to close at 10 p.m.

France—which is still reporting the continent’s highest daily positive cases—plans on lifting some restrictions Wednesday, notably outdoor mask rules in Paris, a part-time work-from-home order and limits on crowd sizes. But face masks are still required indoor in many public places, nightclubs are closed and no eating or drinking is allowed in cinemas, stadiums or public transport.

Finland will end its Covid-19 restrictions this month. On Monday, border controls between Finland and the other Schengen countries that form Europe’s ID check-free travel area, ended. Travelers coming from outside the EU will continue to face border controls at least until Feb. 14.

In Serbia, there are hardly any controls, so the few rules in place— mandatory face masks in closed spaces, passes for bars, restaurants and nightclubs in the evening and only 500 people at events—don’t mean much. Nightclubs have been open all along.

Italy, however, has been gradually tightening its health pass requirements during the Omicron surge. As of Monday, Italy requires at least a negative test within the previous 48 hours to enter banks and post offices, and

Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen takes part in a coronavirus press conference, with Minister of Health Magnus Heunicke, left, and director of the National Board of Health Soeren Brostroem, right, in Copenhagen, Denmark on January 26.

Mads Claus Rasmussen/Ritzau Scanpix via AP

anyone over 50 who has not been vaccinated risks a one-time 100euro ($112) fine.

Austria has imposed a vaccine mandate that takes effect this month and Greece has ordered fines for people 60 and over who refuse to get vaccinated. Germany politicians, meanwhile, have opened a debate on whether to impose a national vaccination mandate.

The head of the Danish Health Authority, Søren Brostrøm, told Danish broadcaster TV2 that his attention was on the number of people in ICUs rather than on the number of infections. He said that number had “fallen and fallen and is incredibly low.”

The most visible restriction disappearing is the wearing of face masks, which are no longer mandatory on public transportation and shops. Authorities only recommend mask use in hospitals, health care facilities and nursing homes.

Another restriction that no longer is required is the digital pass to enter nightclubs or eat indoors in restaurants.

Stefano Tandmark, a Copenhagen waiter, said bars and eateries

can stay open now till 5 a.m. “We can dance and yeah, just be yourself again and don’t worry about if corona is gone or where it is at the moment.”

Still, many Danes took a cautious approach Monday, wearing face masks on public transport and in shops. Some noted that the Omicron variant had led to staff shortages.

“There’s a lot of our employees who are sick without the restrictions being lifted, and it’s going to be even worse now,” said Ulla Vestergaard, 59-year-old social care worker.

Health authorities urged Danes to get tested regularly so the country can react quickly if necessary but also praised citizens for embracing vaccines. “ A lot of people [in Denmark] have received two vaccination shots and a lot have received three doses as well, and many of those doses were provided in the fourth quarter of 2021,” Jens Lundgren, a professor of viral diseases at Copenhagen University Hospital told The Associated Press.

More than 60 percent of Denmark’s population over age 12 has gotten a third vaccine shot. AP

South Korea says it signed $1.6-B arms deal with Egypt

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AIRO—South Korea on Tuesday said it signed a $1.6 billion arms deal with Egypt a week after President Joe Biden’s administration approved another massive arms sale to the Middle Eastern nation.

The office of President Moon Jae-in in Seoul said the deal to provide K9 self-propelled howitzers to Egypt is the country’s biggest export contract for the weapon.

It is manufactured by Hanwha Defense.

Moon’s office did not provide further details on the deal, including how many of the howitzers Egypt will acquire. There was no

immediate comment from Egypt.

Tuesday’s announcement came two weeks after Egyptian leader Abdel Fattah el-Sissi met with Moon in Cairo. It was the first visit by a South Korean president to Egypt in 16 years, according to the state-run al-Ahram daily.

Eg y ptian Defense Minister Gen. Mohamed Zaki was in South Korea on Tuesday to attend the signing ceremony, Egypt’s military said in a statement. It said the deal included the local production and transfer of the artillery system to Egypt.

The Egyptian military also said the two countries signed two

memorandums of understanding on mutual military cooperation.

El-Sissi also met with Hanwha Defense CEO Kim Seung Mo in Cairo in November when Egypt organized its second international weapons fair.

Last week, the Department of State announced a $2.5 billion arms sale to Egypt. That deal included 12 Super Hercules C-130 transport aircraft and related equipment worth $2.2 billion and air defense radar systems worth an estimated $355 million.

Egypt, one of the world’s leading arms importers, has in recent years upgraded its military,

striking massive arms deals with Western nations and Russia. It has built new military bases and expanded its naval and air power to help secure the country’s vast desert and sea borders, especially after the discovery of significant gas deposits in its Mediterranean waters.

Such deals have drawn criticism from rights activist who accuse the Egyptian government of carrying out a wide-scale crackdown on dissent.

The Biden administration said last week it canceled $130 million in military aid to Egypt over human rights concerns. AP

Violence, protests mark first year of Myanmar army rule B

ANGKOK—A nationwide strike marked the one-year anniversary Tuesday of the army’s seizure of power in Myanmar, as protests and sporadic violence across the country renewed concern over the ongoing struggle for power.

Photos and video on social media showed a “silent strike” emptied streets in the largest city of Yangon and other towns as people stayed home and businesses shut in

a show of opposition to army rule.

Violence was reported as well, as the country faces an insurgency that some UN experts now characterize as a civil war.

Local media said an explosion killed at least two people and injured dozens at a pro-military rally in a town on the eastern border with Thailand. The cause of the blast was not immediately clear.

The military’s takeover on Feb. 1, 2021, ousted the elected govern-

ment of Aung San Suu Kyi, whose National League for Democracy party was about to begin a second term in office after winning a landslide election victory.

Widespread nonviolent demonstrations followed the army’s takeover, but armed resistance arose after the protests were put down with lethal force. About 1,500 civilians have been killed but the government has been unable to suppress the opposition.

On the anniversary, the United States and others again criticized the military takeover. President Joe Biden in a statement called for the military to free Suu Kyi and other detainees, and return Myanmar on a path to democracy.

The US on Monday imposed new sanctions on Myanmar officials, adding to those targeting top military officers. The measures freeze any assets the listed officials may have in US jurisdictions and bar

Americans from doing business with them. Britain and Canada announced similar measures.

A statement from the office of UN Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted “an intensification in violence” and “humanitarian crises” that it said required an urgent response.

The United Nations wants the elected government restored and for all those detained, including Suu Kyi, to be released, UN dep-

uty spokesman Farhan Haq said Tuesday. “But ultimately, there is no way forward under the current circumstances and there’s no way forward under the rule by the military that has led to so much needless suffering among the people of Myanmar,” he said.

The UN Security Council is working on reaction to the anniversary, Russia’s UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia and diplomats said Tuesday. AP

TheBroa

Business

A6 Thursday, February 3, 2022• www.businessmirror.com.ph

Pinoys abroad take c concept to internat

By Xander Ceballos, Andrei Joseph Duran & Jhanna Gaad

T

HEY find no strangers here; only friends they have yet to meet.

Hence, from Tokyo to Paris, from Jerusalem to Moscow, they gave and they give: cash and an ear, printers and running shoes.

And, thus, by sending these back to the Philippines, overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) took the concept of “community pantry”— ”From each according to his ability, to each according to his needs”—to a higher level.

“Sa abot ng makakaya lang; kung magkano yung nalikom namin,” 53-year-old Leah Ale of the Moscow-based nonprofit group Filipino Mustard Seeds in Russia (FMSR), said. “Kung marami talagang makipag- cooperate sa amin, it depends talaga sa cooperation ng mga kapwa naming Pilipino na nagdo-donate.” [It really depends on how much we can do, on how much we can collect. If many really cooperate with us… it really depends on the cooperation of our fellow Filipinos here.]

Ale, one of several FMSR members, is just one of many Filipinos working overseas who have gone into what codifiers describe as “charity” or “philanthropy.” Ale and Filipinos like her care less about semantics and more about the Filipino value of “pagtutulungan,” or “helping others” in a more profound way.

“The most [that we can do] is charity talaga: we give to the poor, to the least [accommodated] people,” Ale said in an interview via Zoom. “Kahit ano sila, kahit ano ang religion. Basta nangangailangan siya ng tulong, tutulong kami.” [Whoever they are, we don’t discriminate; even if they belong to different religions. As long as someone needs help, we will help.]

According to Ale, the FMSR has been sending donations to the Philippines after the Philippine government imposed lockdown measures against Covid-19 beginning the second quarter of 2020. She said they sent money instead of packages as the latter takes too much time as transportation and logistics services were disrupted.

“Wala naman talagang impossible kung gusto mo talagang tumulong nang bukal sa iyong kalooban,” Ale said. [Nothing is really impossible if you really want to help out of the goodness of your heart.]

Moscow love

THE FMSR has sent cash donations to families in various provinces, mainly in Ilocos and Abra. Ale said they have also sent equipment like printers to public schools. Coordinating with Philippine-based groups through the Internet, the FMSR has also helped organize feeding programs for children in rural and remote areas, she added.

Ale explained that members of the FMSR contribute either money or a few of their belongings and match the needs of public school students, orphans and street children.

She said they have been using connections in orphanages, schools and convents. These institutions reach out to them and FMSR members open their pockets and wallets in response.

“Kung ano yung mai-donate

mo, kailangan bukas sa puso para maipabot din namin dun sa nangangailangan,” Ale said. [Whatever you donate should be voluntary.] But she clarified they can’t just jump off their seats and ask for things not needed by those in the Philippine, like clothes.

“Hindi rin kami basta-basta nanghihingi dito kung di kakailanganin kundi kung ano yung kailangan nila (sa Pilipinas),” she added. [We don’t ask for things that are not needed by those in the Philippines.]

“Yung may mga school na nangangailangan na printer, kahit ano yung pangangailangan sa Pilipinas, binibigay namin,” she added. [When schools said they need printers, we provided them with printers.]

Organized tours

ACCORDING to Ale, the FMSR organizes tours to raise additional cash to fund feeding programs and other charity works in the Philippines.

“Bumibisita kami sa ibang lugar dito sa Moscow. Kung magkano ma-earn namin doon, iyon yung itinutulong sa mga nangangailangan sa Pilipinas.”

[We organize tours to areas within Moscow. Whatever we collect through that is what we use to help those in need in the Philippines.]

She said that while Muscovites and Filipinos were not immune to the impact of the pandemic and affected by restrictions, life appears normal in Moscow.

“As long as you wear a face mask and as long as you have vaccine, parang normal lang ang life dito,” Leah said. [As long as you wear a face mask and as long as you have a vaccine, life here seems to be normal.]

Ale pointed out that there are many Filipinos who are generous, especially to fellow OFWs. “Lalo na pag sinabi na Pilipino ang nangangailangan. At ramdam naman natin yung hirap, kung paano yung hirap sa Pilipinas. Kaya ganon kami kasigasig tumulong.”

[This is true especially if those needing help are Filipinos because we are aware of their hardships as OFWs and having lived in the Philippines. This is why we are highlymotivated to help.]

Donating ideas

EMONG Heresano, FMSR founder and adviser, said that besides donating money and basic needs, they also offer life advice to those who have had it tough, mental health-wise, as they and governments grapple with the pandemic. Heresano explained that besides the Philippines, they reach out to poor communities in other countries as well but on a case-to-case basis.

But he said all their efforts are concentrated on the Philippines.

“Ang pagtulong namin naka-focus talaga sa Pilipinas dahil sobra talaga ang epekto ng pandemic sa atin,” he said. “[Pero] hindi lang naman pera ang itinutulong namin, nagbibigay din kami ng mga advise; hindi lang pera ang kailangan na itulong.” [We don’t just help with money, we also give ad-

vice; money is just one form of help.]

Heresano said in an interview last December they planned to continue with their donations by February where barriers and restrictions would be a little more lenient than the previous months.

“Meron kaming plan; ang problema magkakaroon kami ng lockdown dito,” Emong said. [We have a plan;, the problem is we will have a lockdown here.]

Engaging Covid

DEPUTY Prime Minister Tatyana Golikova, who heads Russia’s state coronavirus task force, was cited by an Associated Press story in November as saying that restrictions on public places will take force on February 1, 2022.

The official portal of the Moscow Mayor and Moscow Government says that “Muscovites of risk groups (aged 60 years and older and those with chronic diseases) shall stay at home or in the countryside.”

“They can go out to the store, for a walk, to see a doctor in the clinic and in other cases of emergency,” according to the portal.

The portal added that until February 25, the minimum 30 percent of Moscow enterprises staff shall operate remotely as well as all employees aged 60 years and older and those having chronic diseases (except those vaccinated against COVID-19 and those recovered after this disease).

“Hindi lang member namin ang pwedeng tumulong; kung kailangan na tumulong, magbibigay po kami,” Heresano said.

He explains that their members have also individual initiative to undertake charitable works for their own hometown.

Regardless of payback

FMSR’s counterpart is one Filipino woman in Tokyo, nearly 7,500 kilometers away from Moscow: Cherry Amor Yap. “I think those who were severely affected by the Covid pandemic in the Philippines” were those who lost their jobs; those who didn’t have what are called safety nets, Yap, a researcher on migrant philanthropy, said in an interview through Zoom from Japan.

According to her, the decision to help is based on the philosophy of community pantries, food banks organized by private citizens that give and accepts basic commodities sans payment.

“It’s really more of recognizing that if you have the capacity to help then I think you take that opportunity to do something in return, regardless whether or not the person you helped can pay back or you be recognized,” Yap said.

Yap said that donations are coursed through “conduits” who get to identify certain beneficiaries, depending if the needs match to what she can provide. She added there are no certain families or cities as beneficiary.

“It’s really more of the need, hindi naman tinitingnan kung saan, it’s more of ano ang kailangan,” she said. [It’s really more of the need, not looking at where: it’s more of what is needed.]

Needs-based

YAP cited an example of one donation.

“When the contact reached out to us for a donation, for instance, it resonated to me personally because that time my son was playing soccer,” and then she saw pictures

of child athletes in the Philippines wearing rubber slippers. “‘Yung mga bata naka-tsinelas at syempre kinakailangan pag naglalaro ka, as athletes, dapat maayos,” she said. That not only affected her but also, upon sending cash donations, confirmed that “those who are asking for donations do not have the necessary equipment to play soccer.” [The kids were wearing rubber slippers and, of course, it’s necessary that when you play, as athletes, your gear must be good.]

This is why Yap said children who are less privileged strike a note in her and prompted her to put her energy on this pursuit.

“I think there’s the truth to it that the simplicity of the reason makes it more clear,” she said. “You don’t have to or make any fuss about the action. You just act; you just do something.”

Do good, be blessed

AS if the pandemic isn’t enough, the Philippines also had to grapple with an average of 20 typhoons in a year. And as the country was entering the second year of the pandemic, Typhoon Odette arrived.

That didn’t escape Israel-based Filipino caregiver Ador Alryt Tucay.

According to Tucay, he has been reaching out to vulnerable communities in the country since the pandemic started, sending home cash for groceries, clothes and appliances.

“If you do good, you’ll get blessings in return,” Tucay, 45, said in an interview via Zoom.

With his savings and some little money he earned from his sidelines, Tucay was able to raise 3,000 shekels or $48,000 for the donations given to the typhoonaffected communities in Tomas Oppus, Southern Leyte.

“Nakakalungkot kasing isipin na habang maganda ang kalagayan ko dito sa Israel, yung mga kababayan ko, naghihirap. Yung iba nawalan pa ng tirahan at pamilya,” Tucay said. (It is sad to think that while my situation is good here in Israel, others back home are suffering. Some lost their home and family.)

“So ang sabi ko, tutal may natitira pa naman akong pera, why not i-share ko na rin sa kanila?” (So I told myself I still have some money left, why not share it with them?)

Agorot, food

LAST year, Filipino labor migrants in Israel initiated a fund-raising project called “Your Agorot, My Food.” The agorot are the smallest Israeli coins, just like the American’s penny. The project involves caregivers and other foreigners contributed whatever amount of money for the elderly communities in Cebu City.

Michelle dela Rosa, head of Sugbuanon Israel (Cebuano Israel), said that when Filipinos started to bombard her with messages asking for food and other necessities, she knew exactly what she had to do.

“I told my friends “Guys! We need to do something! If we don’t, then who will do it?” dela Rosa said.

From there, she initiated a fundraising campaign in social media where she disseminated the information to all the Facebook groups of Filipino migrant workers in Israel.

That caught the attention of many.

As her message gained traction, Dela Rosa started to receive donations ranging from 10 shekels to 2,000 shekels, either from Filipinos or other Israel-based foreigners.

“Kahit yung mga Pilipinong nawalan ng trabaho (sa Israel) ay mas pinili

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Editor: Dennis D. Estopace • Thursday, February 3, 2022

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community pantry tional, higher levels pa ring magbigay ng tulong kasi alam nilang walang wala talaga yung mga kababayan natin sa Pinas,” dela Rosa said. [Even Filipinos who lost their job in Israel chose to give help because they know that our countrymen are penniless.]

Yielding for others

DELA Rosa admitted the path to gather donations had a rocky start.

Since it is the first time that a philanthropic initiative will be organized within a huge Filipino community in Israel, dela Rosa said many Filipinos were hesitant to give donations at first.

“At the start, I would ask help from our caregivers and they would reject me, but it is okay,” she said.

“Then I started posting on social media relief packages; and then suddenly they were approaching me, offering their help.”

All in all, dela Rosa’s organization was able to acquire 3,200 shekels or around $50,000, the biggest that a Filipino organization in Israel ever received.

That spirit of philanthropy is also present within Filipino communities in Israel. A spirit is exuded by persons like Juliana Flores who wore her heart on her sleeve for a fellow Filipino.

“Hindi ko kasi kayang makita na lahat kami ng flatmates ko may work and siya wala,” Flores said in a virtual interview. (I hated to see all my flat-mates have jobs while she doesn’t have one.)

All of her nine flat-mates chipped in for their fellow caregiver, collecting an amount of 1,500 shekels or almost $26,000, some of which were sent to her family back to the Philippines. After a month, their flat-mate was employed.

Helping others

FOR Maricel Ilustre, her way of showing support to unemployed fellow Filipinos is buying an additional sack of rice and foods whenever she would go to the grocery.

“I will always try to include her in my list of expenses because I know how she exactly feels,” said Ilustre who went through the same experience having been laid off from her previous job as a caregiver.

Ilustre, who also lives in an apartment with other Filipino caregivers, shared that even her other flatmates who stayed in their job also contributed to the expenses of their fellows who were unemployed during the pandemic. She said it was “very nice” to see that “bayanihan” even among migrants is still alive.

“Ang mga Pilipino kasi rito, kapag may problema—problema rin ng lahat,” Ilustre said. [Here, one Filipino’s problem is everybody’s problem.]

“Pero kapag malaking problema, wala na ako diyan,” she said bursting into laughter. [But if it is a big problem, I am not part of it.]

Maricel and her flatmates were able to raise 5,000 shekels or around $81,000 for two months. She said that her fellow caregiver was able to spend half of the donations by sending it to her family in the Philippines while the other half she used to search for jobs.

BM GRAPHICS: JOB RUZGAL

Enthusiasm to give

THE increase in salary of caregivers during the pandemic could be one of the reasons why they chose to donate more, said Winston Santos, president of the National Alliance of Filipino Communities in Israel.

“Lumaki kasi yung binabayad sa ating mga caregivers ngayong pan-

demic since they’re required to stay in their employers’ houses until na matapos yung kontrata nila,” Santos said, noting that caregivers will spend more time working for their employers. [The salary increased among Filipino caregivers during the pandemic since they’re required to stay in their employers’ houses until their contract ends.]

Filipino caregivers during the pandemic can earn a salary of as low as $1,500 to $2,000 a month to as high as $76,533 to $102,045 monthly.

With the surging population of Filipino caregivers in the country, Santos believes that labor migrants are more enthusiastic about sending additional money back home.

“I know some who were able to provide cash for their families and also for the vulnerable communities in the Philippines,” he said.

Santos added that Filipino caregivers were able to earn from sideline jobs for other Israelis during the pandemic.

“Oftentimes, caregivers are also hired to wash the clothes and dishes of other Israelis; with permission from their employers,” he said. “This way, they could make additional cash.”

Remittances surge

ISRAEL is home to nearly 70,000 migrant caregivers, including 30,000 Filipinos who work in different parts of the country, commonly in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.

However, the number of Filipinos deployed to Israel (not just caregivers) at the start of the pandemic plunged by 77.8 percent to 1,717 migrants from the previous estimates of 7,748 in 2019, according to the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA).

Yet, the number of aspiring Filipinos who will join migrant caregivers starts to increase this year as the Israeli economy loosens up to expand caregiving jobs for migrants.

The first batch of migrant workers, comprising 48 Filipino caregivers, was deployed to Israel in the second quarter, the POEA said in a statement in July last year.

Additional batches of Filipino workers, the agency stated, will be expected after the Population and Immigration Authority of the State of Israel intended to recruit over 5,000 more caregivers by the year-end.

Filipino migrant workers transmitted $89.9 billion to the Philippines in 2019. And even with the pandemic, Filipinos were able to transmit $97.4 billion to the Philippines, as provided by the data of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

Last year, the BSP recorded higher remittances that were transmitted to the Philippines within eight months. From January to August, Filipino migrant workers in Israel sent a total of $84.8 billion to their families in the origin country.

Organizational strength

FILIPINOS’ love for their compatriots is shared in the City of Love: Paris.

One organization expresses such love in style by organizing donation caravans.

“Ang pagtulong kasi nakatatak na sa ating mga Pilipino. Iba din kasi yung blessings na naibabahagi mo sa kapwa mo,” household help Marilou Reyes said. [Helping others has been stamped in our hearts. There’s also the feeling of being blessed when you share with your neighbors.]

Reyes said the organization helps

children unable to study.

Marilou Reyes, 65, and a member of a Couples for Christ community in Paris, says that some Filipinos can give during the pandemic since most of them still receive 80 percent of their salary.

Reyes considers herself fortunate that her employer was kind enough to understand the crisis everyone was on and still give her salary. In one of Reyes’s initiatives, her family was able to set up a donation caravan for almost a hundred families in Caloocan.

Reyes said she bought several cavans of rice that volunteers repacked in 5-kilo bags for those families.

Empathy for others

STILL, the last two years were one of the hardest for an OFW like Reyes: her son battled Covid from a hospital bed.

“Talagang naawa ako sa mga taong may ganun kasi mahirap pala talaga: nakikita ko anak ko sobrang hirap na hirap huminga,” she said. [I really feel sorry for people like them because it’s really hard: I saw my child having a difficult time breathing.]

Her son was fortunate enough because, according to doctors who attended to him, had they been a few minutes late, her son would have been dead.

Her son’s hospitalization tied her hands temporarily from donating. Reyes, nonetheless, promised to return to the donating circuit, planning to launch another caravan.

“Katunayan niyan gusto ko pa ulit magbigay kaso nagkasakit lang ang anak ko kaya hindi ko pa maisagawa, pero siguro pag umokey na gagawin namin lalo ngayon nagpasko at magbabagong taon, makapagbigay man lang kahit papaano sa mga nangangailangan,” Reyes on her plans on establishing another caravan.

As a member of a Christian organization, she said what got her through the crisis were prayers and her relationship to God.

State, citizens

IT was the same with Leonora Pineda, also an active member of the Couples for Christ community, who said one of her motivations is her faith.

Another reason for her giving— clothes for children and materials for the church—is the view that the state has been remiss in its role to lead the campaign against the pandemic.

“Marami na rin kasing mga Pilipinong umaasa, eh pwede naman tayong magkusa. Pwede namang magsipag at tayo mismo ang humanap ng paraan para makapagpatuloy pa. Pero ayun nga,” Pineda said. [There are as many Filipinos hoping, eh, we can take the initiative. We can work hard and we ourselves can find a way to continue.

But that’s the way it is.]

She noted that Filipinos still experience hunger during the pandemic. She noted that Filipinos should start going into urban farming to ensure food is available.

Reyes and Pineda believe that Filipinos will always stick together and rise from challenges that put them down.

“Kahit pa sabihin ng iba na hindi mo na rin kailangan tulungan yang mga yan kasi may mga pamilya naman na yan. Marami talagang Pilipino ang talagang inuuna ang pagtulong sa pamilya. Natural na sa atin yan; culture na natin yan,” Reyes said. [Others may say you don’t need to help people anymore because they have their own families. Yes, many Filipinos really prioritize helping the family.

It’s natural for us, it’s our culture.]

If Yeats were alive, he would be proud of Filipinos.

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Thursday, February 3, 2022

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION QUALIFICATION AND AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION SALARY RANGE ANGEL TECHNOLOGY PHILIPPINES INC U-706 Phil. Axa Life Centre, Sen. Gil Puyat Ave. Cor. Tindalo St., San Antonio, City Of Makati SAINO, TAKASHI Basic Qualification: Sales Manager Excellent communication skills in Nihongo.

1.

Brief Job Description: Overseeing local and international sales, promotions and Salary Range: campaigns.

Php 60,000 - Php 89,999 ANOC99 CORPORATION 5/f To 10/f Ayala Malls Manila Bay Building D., Macapagal Blvd. Cor. Aseana Street, Tambo, City Of Parañaque Basic Qualification: LUO, SHUHUA Able to speak, read, and write Chinese Customer Service Chinese language 2.

Brief Job Description: Salary Range: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 CHINA COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES PHILIPPINES CORPORATION 21st Floor Menarco Tower, 32nd Street, Bonifacio Global City, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin and English MA, XIAOPING with Good Communication Chinese Speaking It Specialist skills and preferably 2 years 3. of experience as Chinese Brief Job Description: speaking IT Specialist Resolving All Issues Coworkers Have with their systems and Software Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 CRONYX INC. No. 4th-10th Flr. Yinhope Bldg., Dela Rama Cor. Zoili Hilario St., Seascape Village, Ccp Complex Subd. Zone 10, Barangay 76, Pasay City Basic Qualification: ZHANG, JUN With atleast 6 Months Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk customer service experience/ Good in oral communication 4.

Brief Job Description: and written Assist/Help Customers Give Customer Information about products and services Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 DA PROSPERITAS HOLDING INC. 16/f Tower 6789, 6789 Ayala Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati Basic Qualification: LIM ZI KEAT With atleast 6 months Chinese Speaking Business Financial Officer customer service experience/ good in oral communication 5.

Brief Job Description: and written Assist/help customers, give customers information about product and services Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 DAHUA TECHNOLOGY (HK) LIMITED (PHILIPPINE REPRESENTATIVE OFFICE) 19/f Marco Polo Ortigas Manila, Sapphire Road, Ortigas Center, San Antonio, City Of Pasig Basic Qualification: YAN, ZHONGSHU Bachelor’s degree in computer Philippines Country Manager science and technology; with strong knowledge in software 6.

Brief Job Description: engineering Manage the whole business process of the company in accordance to the company’s policies Salary Range: Php 90,000 - Php 149,999 DEVERE PHILIPPINES LIMITED INC. U6 21/f Zuellig Bldg. Makati Ave. Cor., Paseo De Roxas, Urdaneta, City Of Makati Basic Qualification: BROPHY, JONATHAN MARTIN Graduate of a degree in Director/general Manager management and minimum of 2 years management 7.

Brief Job Description: experience.

Responsible for leading the entire business and development of the company’s operation.

Salary Range: Php 500,000 and above DEXIN 999, INC. Red Hotel No. 345, Edsa Cor. Don Carlos Revilla St., Barangay 147, Pasay City Basic Qualification: MOK JIA MUN Able to speak and write in Malaysian Customer Support Representative MALAY and at least college level with related BPO 8.

Brief Job Description: experience.

Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 FLASH EXPRESS SOFTWARE (PH) CO., LTD. INC. 11/f Cybersigma, Lawton Ave., Mckinley West, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig WANG, GANMING Basic Qualification: Central Control Dispatching Deputy Manager Job-relevant degree/ 5-10 yrs. Supervisory/managerial Brief Job Description: experience in logistics or 9.

Conduct and supervise the work of the central control operations/ multilingual dispatching department in order to operate efficiently and effectively according to the workplan and in line with the Salary Range: goals of the business Php 60,000 - Php 89,999 XU, ERKUN Basic Qualification: District Manager Job-relevant degree/ 5-10 yrs. Supervisory/managerial Brief Job Description: experience in logistics or 10.

Acts as key liaison between the company’s headquarters operations/ multilingual and assigned area branches. Responsible for management of operational practices, ensure budget and sales goals are Salary Range: achieved, and train and cultivate strong teams of branch Php 60,000 - Php 89,999 managers.

Basic Qualification: CANDRA JULI YANCE Job-relevant degree/ 5-10 Network Planning Supervisor yrs. Supervisory/managerial experience in logistics or 11.

Brief Job Description: operations/ multilingual Develops, plans, and implements the overall strategic goals of an organization’s network system Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999 Basic Qualification: NG TIAN GUAN Job-relevant degree/ 5-10 Senior Asset Data Officer yrs. Supervisory/managerial experience in logistics or 12.

Brief Job Description: operations/ multilingual Responsible for recording information, processing company and group asset accounts.

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999 Basic Qualification: HUANG, YANJUAN Job-relevant degree/ 5-10 Settlement Supervisor yrs. Supervisory/managerial experience in logistics or 13.

Brief Job Description: operations/ multilingual Manage and supervise the payments and settlement unit, to ensure effective and efficient operating model is maintained. Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999 No.

LI, SENLING Shop Operations Manager 14.

Brief Job Description: Creating and maintaining operational policies and procedures as well as strategies to drive productivity, profitability, and customer service levels.

Basic Qualification: Job-relevant degree/ 5-10 yrs. Supervisory/managerial experience in logistics or operations/ multilingual Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

GLOBALLGA BUSINESS PROCESS OUTSOURCING Ground Level, Level 2-5 Floor, Silver City 4, Ortigas East, Ugong, City Of Pasig

JIANG, MINGFANG Customer Service Representative Mandarin Speaking 15.

Brief Job Description: Build sustainable relationship of trust through open and interactive communication in Mandarin Speaking

Basic Qualification: Knows how to recommend potential products or services to management by collecting customer information and analyzing customer needs.

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

No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION TAN, JIANGMIN Customer Service Representative Mandarin Speaking

16.

Brief Job Description: Build sustainable relationship of trust through open and interactive communication in Mandarin Speaking

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ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Knows how to recommend potential products or services to management by collecting customer information and analyzing customer needs.

No.

DONG, SHIQIANG Chinese Speaking Brand Marketing Specialist 33.

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

HECTECHURE CORP. Units A&b 20/f Rufino Pacific Tower, 6784 Ayala Ave. Cor. V.a. Rufino St., San Lorenzo, City Of Makati Basic Qualification: Proven experience as a Mandarin Human Resources WANG, XIA Supervisor, Familiarity, Mandarin Human Resources Supervisor knowledge and awareness on Machinery and Heavy Brief Job Description: 17.

Equipment use by company, The Mandarin Human Resources Supervisor will be strategist Demonstrable experience in and a leader able to steer the company to the most profitable developing strategic business direction while also implementing its vision, mission and long plan. term goal.

Brief Job Description: assist/help customers, give customers information about product and services DUNG THUA NANG Chinese Speaking Brand Marketing Specialist

34.

Brief Job Description: assist/help customers, give customers information about product and services LI, JIE Chinese Speaking Brand Marketing Specialist

35.

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

INVECH TREASURE PROCESSING CORPORATION Ground, 2nd, 3rd And 4th Floor, Eight West Campus Mckinley West, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig Basic Qualification: DENG, ZHICHENG Able to speak and write in Mandarin Customer Support Representative MANDARIN/FUKIEN and at least college level with related 18.

Brief Job Description: BPO experience.

Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: DING, KAOBO Able to speak and write in Mandarin Customer Support Representative MANDARIN/FUKIEN and at least college level with related 19.

Brief Job Description: BPO experience.

Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: HUANG, ZHAOYANG Able to speak and write in Mandarin Customer Support Representative MANDARIN/FUKIEN and at least college level with related 20.

Brief Job Description: BPO experience.

Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: JIA, SIMENG Able to speak and write in Mandarin Customer Support Representative MANDARIN/FUKIEN and at least college level with related 21.

Brief Job Description: BPO experience.

Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: LIANG, SHAOCONG Able to speak and write in Mandarin Customer Support Representative MANDARIN/FUKIEN and at least college level with related 22.

Brief Job Description: BPO experience.

Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: LIN, JINBIAN Able to speak and write in Mandarin Customer Support Representative MANDARIN/FUKIEN and at least college level with related 23.

Brief Job Description: BPO experience.

Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: ZHANG, MEIJU Able to speak and write in Mandarin Customer Support Representative MANDARIN/FUKIEN and at least college level with related 24.

Brief Job Description: BPO experience.

Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 ITECHNO SPECIALIST INC. 9/f 100 West Building, Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Pio Del Pilar, City Of Makati GAI, YUNLONG Basic Qualification: Chinese IT Support Specialist Fluent in Chinese writing and speaking language 25.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for providing quality it support of enterprise Salary Range: systems throughout the Chinese clientele.

Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 GENG, YUANFANG Basic Qualification: Chinese IT Support Specialist Fluent in Chinese writing and speaking language 26.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for providing quality it support of enterprise Salary Range: systems throughout the Chinese clientele.

Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 DAO VAN NHAT Basic Qualification: IT Support Specialist Can speak and read Cantonese, Mandarin and Brief Job Description: 27.

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

J-NA ALLOUT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS CORP. 3/f Lipams Bldg., #48 President Avenue, B. F. Homes, City Of Parañaque Basic Qualification: LEE, LESTER College graduate, speaks and Chinese Customer Service Representative write fluently (Mandarin & 28.

English) Brief Job Description: Track main industry trends through blogs, micro blogs and Salary Range: forums.

Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: KWEON, JINYOUNG College graduate, speaks & write Korean Customer Service Representative fluently (English & Korean) 29.

Brief Job Description: Salary Range: Managing incoming calls & customer service inquiries Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 JANGHO CURTAINWALL PHILIPPINES INC. Level 40 Pbcom Tower, 6795 Ayala Ave. Cor. V.a. Rufino St., Bel-air, City Of Makati Basic Qualification: LU, HONGJUN fluent in mandarin, both oral Project Manager and written.

30.

Brief Job Description: Salary Range: construction Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 JDB MANAGEMENT AND CONSULTANCY CORP. 107 T & D House, Magallanes St. 069, Barangay 655, Intramuros, City Of Manila TARANBIR SINGH Basic Qualification: Strategic And Facilitation Officer must be fluent in chinese language 31.

Brief Job Description: your primary function is to help the company and its Chinese Salary Range: clients to generate more income for the company Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 KAISER DYNASTY TRADING CORP. Unit 25d 2/f Zeta Ii Bldg., 191 Salcedo St., San Lorenzo, City Of Makati Basic Qualification: CHEN, YUNLEI With at least 6 months Chinese Speaking Brand Marketing Specialist customer service experience/ good in oral communication 32.

Brief Job Description: and written Assist/help customers, give customers information about products and services Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Brief Job Description: assist/help customers, give customers information about product and services LI, SHIFANG Chinese Speaking Brand Marketing Specialist

36.

Brief Job Description: assist/help customers, give customers information about product and services LI, XIAOJUN Chinese Speaking Brand Marketing Specialist

37.

Brief Job Description: assist/help customers, give customers information about product and services LIANG, JIAZHEN Chinese Speaking Brand Marketing Specialist

38.

Brief Job Description: assist/help customers, give customers information about product and services LIU, YAN Chinese Speaking Brand Marketing Specialist

39.

Brief Job Description: assist/help customers, give customers information about product and services LU, TAO Chinese Speaking Brand Marketing Specialist

40.

Brief Job Description: Assist/help customers, give customers information about products and services MA, ZHENXI Chinese Speaking Brand Marketing Specialist

41.

Brief Job Description: assist/help customers, give customers information about product and services SHEN, YANHUI Chinese Speaking Brand Marketing Specialist

42.

Brief Job Description: assist/help customers, give customers information about product and services WANG, SHUAI Chinese Speaking Brand Marketing Specialist

43.

Brief Job Description: Assist/help customers, give customers information about products and services WANG, SHUO Chinese Speaking Brand Marketing Specialist

44.

Brief Job Description: Assist/help customers, give customers information about products and services XIE, PINCHENG Chinese Speaking Brand Marketing Specialist

45.

Brief Job Description: assist/help customers, give customers information about product and services YU, QINXIONG Chinese Speaking Brand Marketing Specialist

46.

Brief Job Description: Assist/help customers, give customers information about products and services

KAWASAKI MOTORS (PHILS.) CORPORATION Km 23, East Service Rd, Cupang, City Of Muntinlupa OKAMOTO, YASUHIDE Assistant To The President-supply Chain Division 47.

Brief Job Description: Oversee and monitor the performance of the team ensuring the smooth operation of the supply chain

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: with atleast 6 months customer service experience/ good in oral communication and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: with atleast 6 months customer service experience/ good in oral communication and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: with atleast 6 months customer service experience/ good in oral communication and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: with atleast 6 months customer service experience/ good in oral communication and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: with atleast 6 months customer service experience/ good in oral communication and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: with atleast 6 months customer service experience/ good in oral communication and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: with atleast 6 months customer service experience/ good in oral communication and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months customer service experience/ good in oral communication and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: with atleast 6 months customer service experience/ good in oral communication and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: with atleast 6 months customer service experience/ good in oral communication and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months customer service experience/ good in oral communication and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months customer service experience/ good in oral communication and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: with atleast 6 months customer service experience/ good in oral communication and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months customer service experience/ good in oral communication and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Graduate of any course and with at least 10 years work experience Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

MINDSCAPE CREATIVES INC. Unit 19-o, Burgundy Corporate Tower, 252 Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Pio Del Pilar, City Of Makati YU, KAIYU Basic Qualification: Mandarin Marketing Specialist Proficient in speaking, reading and writing in Mandarin 48.

Brief Job Description: Conducting research and marketing strategies to develop Salary Range: areas of business Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. 4th-11th Flr. Nexgen Tower, C4 Rd. Edsa Ext., Barangay 76, Pasay City

49.

50.

AURELIA ANGEL Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires BUDIANTO Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires

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

BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

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NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION CHUONG NINH MY Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries DANG VAN TRUONG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries DINH THI SAU Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires DUONG VAN HUNG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires HO VAN CUONG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires HOANG THI HANH Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries HOANG THI KIEU TRINH Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries HOANG THI THUY TRANG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries HOANG THI YEN Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires KENRICK SAPUTRA Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires LANH VAN HIEN Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries LE PHAM HONG LIEN Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries LE QUANG VU Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries LE THI AI Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries LE THI HA Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries LE TIEN THANH Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries LE VAN HOANG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries LI, CHAO Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries LIANG, ZHUBANG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries LIN, QIU Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries LUO, JUNPENG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries LUONG THI CHAM Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries LUONG VAN HANH Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries LUONG VAN TUAN Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: managing incoming calls and customer service inquires LUU THI THAM Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries LY THI THUY CHI Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: managing incoming calls and customer service inquires MAC DINH TRONG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE 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 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 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 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 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

NGUYEN MINH HOANG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries NGUYEN THI DIEP Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing Incoming Calls and Customer Service Inquiries NGUYEN THI DUYEN Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: managing incoming calls and customer service inquires NGUYEN THI NGOC HA Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: managing incoming calls and customer service inquires NGUYEN THI THANH DIEM Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: managing incoming calls and customer service inquires NGUYEN THI THUY LOAN Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: managing incoming calls and customer service inquires NGUYEN TOAN THANG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: managing incoming calls and customer service inquires NGUYEN VAN GON Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries NGUYEN VIET TANG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries PHAM THI TRANG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries PHAM VAN QUYET Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries TRAN HUU CHINH Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires TRAN THI KIM CHAM Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: managing incoming calls and customer service inquires TRAN THI TUONG VI Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: managing incoming calls and customer service inquires TRAN THI TUYET Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries TRUONG CONG MANH Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries VI THI DUONG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries VI THI LICH Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries VO CONG THANH Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries WILSON Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services YANG, XINTAO Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Brief Job Description: Provide product/services, information, answer questions and resolve emerging problems HENKY CHANDRA Indonesian Customer Service Representative

101.

Basic Qualification: able to speak, read, and write Chinese language

Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read, and write Chinese language

Brief Job Description: managing incoming calls and customer service inquires

EVANOCH BRAVE MAWU Indonesian Customer Service Representative

Basic Qualification: Able to speak, Read, and Write chinese language

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

NGO THI KHANH LINH Chinese Customer Service

Brief Job Description: Provide product/services, information, answer questions and resolve emerging problems MELIYA Indonesian Customer Service Representative

102.

Brief Job Description: Provide product/services, information, answer questions and resolve emerging problems

OMRON ASIA PACIFIC PTE LTD PHILIPPINE BRANCH 2/f Kingscourt Ii Bldg., 2129 Chino Roces Ave., Pio Del Pilar, City Of Makati

A9

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE 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 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: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries 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 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 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: Able to speak, read, and write Chinese language

No.

REHAL, BALVINDER SINGH Diamond Assorter 105.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Graduate of bachelor degree, willing to work in high pressure environment Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: At least 8 years of experience in a similar industry

Brief Job Description: Selects, studies, and sorts diamonds with the use of various Salary Range: tools Php 90,000 - Php 149,999 PRIMUS@KNOWLEDGE SPECIALISTS, INCORPORATED 3rd Flr. Oac Bldg., San Miguel Ave., Ortigas Center, San Antonio, City Of Pasig Basic Qualification: HUANG, ZHUYA Fluent in Mandarin and Chinese Admin Officer English language both oral and 106. written.

Brief Job Description: With extensive background in telecommunication Salary Range: multinational company.

Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: FU, BING Fluent in Mandarin and Chinese Project Manager English language both oral and 107. written.

Brief Job Description: With extensive background in telecommunication Salary Range: multinational company.

Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 RPJ DEVELOPMENT INCORPORATED (PHOENIX COURT AND THE BELLEVUE MANILA) North Bridgeway Northgate Cyberzone, Filinvest, Alabang, City Of Muntinlupa CHEONG KWAN LOONG Basic Qualification: Chinese Executive Chef Must have a bachelor’s degree in culinary related discipline or Brief Job Description: 108. equivalent experience Ensure that all Chinese foods are served efficiently and according to the standards of the executive chef and Salary Range: supervise daily mis en place preparation and cooking of all Php 90,000 - Php 149,999 food SEQUOIA SOFTWARE SOLUTIONS INC. 37f Lkg Tower, 6801 Ayala Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati ZHENG, BAOLI Basic Qualification: Mandarin Speaking It/customer Support Proficient in foreign speaking language 109.

Brief Job Description: Coordinate, respond, and address inquiries of Chinese Salary Range: Speaking Customers, call center activities Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 SHSY ELECTRIC POWER CORPORATION 3/f Salcedo One Center, 170 Salcedo St., San Lorenzo, City Of Makati Basic Qualification: YIN, YUJING Good knowledge of building Chinese Site Manager methods and regulations 110.

Brief Job Description: Salary Range: Participating in scheduling for a project Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 SKYLUCK CORPORATION #360, Unit 243 Shaw Center Mall, Shaw Blvd., Addition Hills, City Of Mandaluyong Basic Qualification: MOON, HYUNGHO Can speak and write fluent Korean Technical Support Staff Korean language 111.

Brief Job Description: Salary Range: Apply diagnostic utilities to aid in troubleshooting Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 SUTHERLAND GLOBAL SERVICES PHILIPPINES, INC. 12th Floor Philplans Corporate Center, Kalayaan Avenue & Triangle Drive, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig Basic Qualification: BANERJEE, ANINDA Business and Management Associate Vice President - Service Delivery Management Skills 112.

Brief Job Description: Salary Range: Program, P&L and Client Management Managing Php 500,000 and above RAJENDRAN, DINESH KUMAR Basic Qualification: Senior Director - Service Delivery Business and Management Skills 113.

Brief Job Description: Oversee day to day operations to achieve optimal results on Salary Range: efficiency metrics Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 TONERLINK CORPORATION 1176-e, Chino Roces Ave., San Antonio, City Of Makati Basic Qualification: PARK, HONG JIN Over 10 years experience as Treasurer/general Manager General Manager, Biggest 114. stock holder, Board Member.

Brief Job Description: Manage/Plan/Operate whole company, Handle importation Salary Range: of stocks list and suppliers.

Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 VOLENDAY INC. U1406 14/f Pacific Star Bldg., Sen. Gil Puyat Cor. Makati Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati MCLOUGHLIN, RAYMOND Steam Turbine Technical Advisor Basic Qualification: Brief Job Description: To provide consulting technical Responsible for supporting teams and providing expert and advisory services 115. repair and testing services on specific rotating electrical generating equipment including large and complicated AC/ Salary Range: DC equipment such as power generator rotating fields and Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 stator. motors armatures and filed brushless& DC exciters and collector assembles W-TECH SOLUTIONS INC. 5/f Eco Plaza Bldg., 2305 Chino Roces Ave. Extn., Magallanes, City Of Makati Basic Qualification: LIU, YAN Good communication skills Cage Assistant both wiritten and spoken in 116. mandarin Brief Job Description: Takes charge of manning the designated table / assigned cage Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 WELL TREASURE PHILIPPINES INC. Unit No.602-p, Flr., No.6/f Five E-com Center Bldg. Blk. No.18 Pacific Drive Ext. Mall Of Asia Complex Subd.

Zone 10, Barangay 76, Pasay City NAKAHARA, YUKI Japanese Customer Support

Basic Qualification: Graduate of bachelor degree, willing to work in high pressure environment

Basic Qualification: Graduate of bachelor degree, willing to work in high pressure environment

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: JLPT N1 passer; Fluent in Japanese and English (Speak, read and write); At least 5 years working experience in the same field; Strong verbal, visual and written communication skills with the ability to explain approach to all levels of organization; Extensive knowledge in the same industry is preferred

ORLOV DESIGNS INC. 1008, Annapolis Wilshire, Greenhills, City Of San Juan

117.

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

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION OKADA, MASAKATSU Japanese Account Sales Manager

Brief Job Description: Create, develop and recommend marketing objectives and strategies in line with Omron Healthcare Group Strategy; Plan, organize and manage marketing activities to include preparation of all promotional materials and monitor sales 103. activities implementation from start to finish; Analyze prevailing markets, identifies business opportunities, and interprets and evaluates effectiveness of sales methods, costs and results based on the direction of on the direction of Omron Healthcare Group; Assist in the preparation of sales and marketing annual budget; Handles Japanese partners’ Salary Range: concerns and ensure resolution in the most effective way Php 150,000 - Php 499,999 ONWARD WORLDWIDE MANAGEMENT & CONSULTANCY SERVICES CORP. 5/f Greensun Bldg., 2285 Chino Roces Ave. Ext., Magallanes, City Of Makati Basic Qualification: RUSNI Good communication skills Mandarin Speaking HR & Admin Specialist written & spoken in mandarin 104. & pleasing personality Brief Job Description: Provide counseling on policies & procedures Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

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

MPOTECH DIGITAL SYSTEM INC. 2/f 331 Bldg., Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati

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

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

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Thursday, February 3, 2022

Brief Job Description: Outstanding in resolving conflict, has patience, and adaptability to assist Japanese clients. With exceptional positive attitude and Customer service skills towards Japanese Clients.

SUZUKI, RYOTA Japanese Customer Support Manager

118.

Brief Job Description: Outstanding in resolving conflict, has patience, and adaptability to assist Japanese clients. With exceptional positive attitude and Customer service skills towards Japanese Clients.

Basic Qualification: Experience in Management, , strong personal and judgment, with good oral communication skills specifically Japanese and English speaking.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Experience in Management, , strong personal and judgment, with good oral communication skills specifically Japanese and English speaking.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 *Date Generated: Feb 2, 2022

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.

A10 Thursday, February 3, 2022 • Editor: Angel R. Calso

Opinion BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

editorial

Is PHL ready to tax the rich?

T

he Institute for Policy Studies is a progressive American think tank that issued a report last year saying the world’s 2,365 billionaires enjoyed a $4 trillion boost to their wealth during the first year of the pandemic. According to the IPS’ analysis of data from Forbes, Bloomberg and Wealth-X, the wealth held by the world’s billionaires jumped from $8.04 trillion to $12.39 trillion from March 2020 to March 2021. All told, the total wealth of the world’s billionaire class grew 54 percent during the pandemic year, IPS said.

In a recent analysis published by the Fight Inequality Alliance, Institute for Policy Studies, Oxfam, and Patriotic Millionaires—Taxing the World’s Richest Would Raise US$2.52 Trillion a Year—they found a shocking rise in global wealth among the world’s richest people despite deepening inequality during the Covid-19 pandemic. “This latest rise in global wealth stands in stark contrast to loss of lives and jobs during the pandemic, which has pushed tens of millions more people into poverty and further increased inequalities, particularly in poorer nations around the world,” the report said.

It added that an annual wealth tax on the world’s richest would be enough to lift 2.3 billion people out of poverty, make enough vaccines for the whole world, and deliver universal health care and social protection for all the citizens of low and lower middle-income countries estimated at 3.6 billion people. It explained that an annual wealth tax applied to the world’s richest would raise $2.52 trillion a year (with a graduated rate structure of 2 percent tax on wealth over $5 million; 3 percent on wealth over $50 million; 5 percent on wealth over $1 billion).

Rep. Joey Sarte Salceda, chairman of the House Committee on Ways and Means, said the next Philippine president needs to tax the rich so that government would have enough funds for debt payments and adequate social services. He said the incoming Chief Executive will almost certainly push for one round of tax reforms within the new leader’s first year in office to make sure there’s enough cash in government’s coffers (Read, “Next prex must tax the rich to fund services— Salceda,” in the BusinessMirror, February 1, 2022).

“The rich have gotten richer during the pandemic, and this is common experience,” Salceda said, citing an unnamed study on the effects of five pandemics between 2003 and 2016. The study found that “on average, income inequality in affected countries increased over the five years following each event, with the effect being higher when the crisis led to contraction in economic activity, like Covid-19. So, our next round of tax increases will have to fall on the wealthy,” the lawmaker-economist said.

Globally, demanding tax increases on the rich is back in fashion. A proposal to adopt a wealth tax targeted at the richest Filipinos would certainly look like jumping on the bandwagon. There are serious questions that must be competently answered first if we intend to go in that direction: How feasible is a tax on wealth (as opposed to income), and what obstacles stand in the way? What tax rate should we apply to the richest to maximize revenue? What rate is so high that it begins to discourage businesses, which will adversely affect government revenue?

The experiment with the wealth tax in Europe was a failure in many countries. France’s wealth tax, for example, drove away 42,000 millionaires from the country between 2000 and 2012. In December 2018, France killed its wealth tax called the ISF (impôt sur la fortune), translated as “taxes on someone’s fortune.”

Twelve countries in Europe had a wealth tax in 1990. Today, there are only three: Norway, Spain and Switzerland.

The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development said in a report that wealth taxes “can harm risk-taking and entrepreneurship, harming innovation and impacting long-term growth.” Here’s why the wealth tax experiment failed in many European countries: It was expensive to administer, it was hard on people with lots of assets but little cash, it distorted saving and investment decisions, it pushed the rich and their money out of the taxing countries—and, perhaps worst of all, it didn’t raise much revenue.

With the economy severely weakened by the pandemic’s massive impact, it could be tempting for the next administration to tax the rich, as Salceda suggested. But, as the OECD observed, “the wealth tax experiment failed in many European countries.” The next president needs to tread carefully on this move.

The wealth tax caused the exodus of 42,000 millionaires from France. We don’t want to see rich Filipinos leaving the country. We can’t afford to kill the goose that lays the golden egg.

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The best leading indicator John Mangun

OUTSIDE THE BOX

M

aybe it comes with advancing age and simultaneously increasing crankiness, but this election seems different to me than all the previous cycles. Perhaps it is also because of the pandemic but the campaign season looks to be bringing out the worst of the “democratic process.” This includes supporters and candidates, and now government officials.

I cannot remember things being this borderline “psy-chaotic” since the “Hello Garci” scandal, and that broke after the election was concluded.

Nonetheless, we should be able to get through the next 90+ days. I hope.

Regardless of what the government does here in the Philippines, the rest of the world is moving—in some cases faster rather than slower—to acknowledging the Covid pandemic is finished. Denmark and Finland have declared victory. South Africa has significantly reduced the quarantine period for “positive but asymptomatic” cases. The Johns Hopkins Institute for Applied Economics, Global Health, and the Study of Business Enterprise just released a study and concluded that “lockdown policies are ill-founded and should

be rejected as a pandemic policy instrument.”

Do not get upset with that and blame policy makers. That was a study based on back-testing the results of the lockdowns over the past two years. Nobody was sure what to do at the beginning, and that included all the SocMed “Covid experts.”

I do not have any problem with finding information from the greatest repository in the human history: the Internet. The problem is that most of these experts have no better attention span than the 9-12 seconds of the fruit fly and the laziness of the koala that is awake only two to six hours a day. Obviously, a koala would not be suitable to be president.

It is like this. Some of these experts tell me that the latest Phil-

The safest and most accurate leading indicator for business and the economy is the stock market.

Real people putting real money into real companies, and therefore the economy. The Philippine stock market is just at its 2020 and 2021 high and its 2019 low.

We are also continuing a sixmonth uptrend. ippine fourth quarter 2021 GDP growth of 7.7 percent is not accurate. Fair enough. What would be accurate data? One said he thought 5.5 percent was more correct. That’s acceptable, but how do we get that number?

The “7.7” count includes Household Final Consumption Expenditure growing by 7.5 percent and Gross Capital Formation up 12.6 percent.

What should those numbers be? How much off the target was the 0.3 percent decline of “Agriculture, forestry, and fishing” and which of the dozen components of Government Final Consumption Expenditure need to be changed?

The other problem with most experts—SocMed and otherwise— is that there is little if any delineation between what might be called “leading” and “lagging” indicators for everything. Dark clouds and increasing wind are leading indicators for a rainstorm that is coming. You

could say that a rainbow is a lagging indicator for the same storm that has now passed.

All this economic data is fine to tell us where were have come from and might, maybe, and perhaps tell us where we are headed to if there is enough time data to form a trend. It’s like I said about inflation, I look at the trend not the last number. Likewise, I am not that interested in low current and past two-quarter earnings of listed companies.

I am also cautious about reading too much into revenues for the short past periods. What I look at with a large magnifying glass is what the company has been, is doing, and what it will do in the future to prosper post-pandemic.

The safest and most accurate leading indicator for business and the economy is the stock market.

Real people putting real money into real companies, and therefore the economy. The Philippine stock market is just at its 2020 and 2021 high and its 2019 low. We are also continuing a six-month uptrend.

But the best part about the stock market as an indicator—no one says the number is wrong. And if it reverses trend, you know it almost instantly.

E-mail me at mangun@gmail.com. Follow me on Twitter @mangunonmarkets. PSE stock-market information and technical analysis provided by AAA Southeast Equities Inc.

Putin accuses US, allies of ignoring Russian security needs

By Vladimir Isachenkov & Matthew Lee | The Associated Press

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OSCOW—Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday accused the US and its allies of ignoring Russia’s top security demands but said Moscow is willing to talk more to ease tensions over Ukraine.

The comments were his first on the standoff in more than a month and suggested a potential Russian invasion of Ukraine may not be imminent and that at least one more round of diplomacy is likely.

Yet the two sides remain unyielding in their main positions, and there was little apparent hope for concessions. Russia is expected to respond soon to a US proposal for negotiations on lesser Russian demands after which Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will speak.

Lavrov and Blinken spoke Tuesday and reiterated positions put forward by Putin and President Joe Biden. The White House said Biden and Putin could also speak once the US receives Russia’s response.

In remarks to reporters at a Moscow news conference with the visiting leader of North Atlantic Treaty Organization ally Hungary, Putin said the Kremlin is still studying the

US and Nato’s response to the Russian security demands received last week. But he said it was clear that the West has ignored Russian demands that Nato not expand to Ukraine and other ex-Soviet nations, refrain from deploying offensive weapons near Russia and roll back its deployments to Eastern Europe.

Putin argued that it’s possible to negotiate an end to the standoff if the interests of all parties, including Russia’s security concerns, are taken into account. “I hope that we will eventually find a solution, although we realize that it’s not going to be easy,” Putin said.

Russia has amassed over 100,000 troops along the border of Ukraine, fueling fears of an invasion. It has denied any intention to attack.

Washington and its allies have rejected Moscow’s key demands.

They emphasize that Ukraine, like any other nation, has the right to choose alliances, although it is not a

NATO member now and is unlikely to join any time soon.

Putin said the Western allies’ refusal to meet Russia’s demands violates their obligations on the integrity of security for all nations. He warned that a Ukrainian accession to Nato could lead to a situation where Ukraine launches military action to reclaim control over Russianannexed Crimea or areas controlled

by Russia-backed separatists in the country’s east.

“Imagine that Ukraine becomes a Nato member and launches those military operations,” Putin said.

“Should we fight Nato then? Has anyone thought about it?”

Russia annexed Ukraine’s Crimean Peninsula in 2014 following the ouster of the country’s Moscowfriendly president and later threw its weight behind rebels in Ukraine’s eastern industrial heartland, triggering a conflict that has killed over 14,000 people.

Putin charged that while the US airs concerns about Ukraine’s security, it is using the ex-Soviet country as an “instrument” in its efforts to contain Russia.

He alleged that Washington may try to “draw us into a military conflict and force its allies in Europe to

impose the tough sanctions the US is talking about now.” Another possible option would be to “draw Ukraine into Nato, deploy offensive weapons there” and encourage Ukrainian nationalists to use force to reclaim the rebel-held east or Crimea, “drawing us into a military conflict,” Putin claimed.

Speaking after talks with Hungarian Prime Minister Victor Orban, who has forged closer ties with Moscow than almost any other Nato member, Putin noted that it’s still possible to negotiate a settlement that would take every party’s concerns into account.

“We need to find a way to ensure interests and security of all parties, including Ukraine, European nations and Russia,” Putin said, emphasizing that the West needs to treat Russian proposals seriously to make progress.

He said French President Emmanuel Macron may soon visit Moscow as part of renewed diplomatic efforts following their call on Monday.

In a bid to exert pressure on the West, Lavrov sent letters to the US and other Western counterparts pointing out their past obligations signed by all members of the Organization for Security and See “Putin” A11

Opinion BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

A tale of two banks

Back to pre-pandemic level?

Is consumption-led growth sustainable?

Val A. Villanueva

Businesswise

T

he year 2021 ended with the proverbial bang, but not in a good way for at least two banking institutions. The last month of the year saw two banking issues emerge from the woodwork. One is the unfortunate Banco de Oro hacking incident, which affected over 700 BDO Unibank accounts, each depositor losing between P25,000 and P50,000, after being taken over by a certain “Mark Nagoyo.” The other one is the lesser-known Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. (RCBC) fund scam where a foundation and a handful of other clients of the bank complained they were victimized by a branch manager, involving millions of pesos.

In both incidents, the reputations of BDO and RCBC took quite a hit.

Top officials of the two banks were contacted by BusinessWise, and both begged for anonymity due to the sensitivity of the cases. Both officials admitted to being weighed down by negative public perception, but each has been diligently working to get to the bottom of their respective cases to find the right solutions to prevent similar internal and external breaches in the future.

BDO has pretty much redeemed itself by reimbursing the victims’ losses. From a legal standpoint, the service terms and conditions its clients have signed to can absolve the bank of accountability, but the official recognized that doing so will only provide negative optics. With recent news about suspects getting arrested for the incident, it looks like BDO will be in the clear soon.

RCBC’s case is different. It has its hands full handling an apparent multimillion-peso scam that one of its bank managers is accused of perpetrating. Financial analysts believe that the bank’s initial counter moves had been a tad slower for a scam of such magnitude.

The now-dismissed bank manager Liza Arzaga allegedly defrauded a foundation and a handful of other individuals out of their hardearned money by upselling them investment and/or insurance products from RCBC sister companies Malayan Leasing and Grepalife.

Instead of having their money deposited into the promised investment funds, however, the clients received fake deposit slips, with the bank official accused of pocketing the money. All this happened while Arzaga was the manager of RCBC’s Garnet Road Branch in Ortigas.

When she was booked by the NBI for Estafa, Arzaga posted bail and was never heard from again. Meanwhile, the victims sought RCBC’s help in recovering the money they had lost to Arzaga, who was, at the time, an active, full-time RCBC employee accused of using her position to commit the scam.

The RCBC official told BusinessWise that the bank would rather investigate the mess silently so as not to jeopardize the parallel moves it is conducting with proper authorities.

Other bank sources say that RCBC is looking for doable actions to help its clients go after Arzaga.

The Inang Nag-Aaruga sa Anak (INAA) Foundation, which lost a huge chunk of its operational budget, filed a complaint against RCBC’s executives and board members with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. Unfortunately for the foundation, the BSP ruled that the executives are not accountable for any of Arzaga’s actions. Nonetheless, BSP’s resolution did acknowledge that a scam has been committed within RCBC’s walls, under RCBC’s watch. Now, I’m not one to question the decision of supposed experts, but I do find it questionable that there was acknowledgment of a scam being perpetrated at RCBC, but no one at RCBC could be held liable.

Strange, but true!

The INAA elevated the case to the Court of Appeals (CA), hoping for a more favorable resolution. While that’s going on, the other victims of Arzaga are waiting for justice, clinging to the hope that RCBC’s people will help them get back the money they had lost. Although it’s possible that RCBC may also be a victim here, the bank must show enough concern for its clients to do something proactive and tangible to appease those scammed by one of their senior employees.

It is now up to the CA to decide whether there are enough legal grounds to overturn the BSP decision. The hope is for jurisprudence to help provide protection for all Filipino banking customers and retribution for erring bank employees. I intimated to the RCBC official, who is a long-time friend, that the incident may end up like that of Maia Deguito’s. Deguito, another RCBC bank manager, rose to infamy for being convicted of 8 counts of money laundering in connection with the 2016 Bangladesh Bank cyber heist. The view in some quarters is that Deguito is a scapegoat, while other higher RCBC executives walk away free of liability. Lessons were learned from that episode, the official said, and promised that this case will have a different outcome.

For comments and suggestions, e-mail me at mvala.v@gmail.com

Thursday, February 3, 2022 A11

Dr. Rene E. Ofreneo

LABOREM EXERCENS

B

ecause of “revenge spending” in the last quarter of 2021, the country’s trade deficit reached a pre-pandemic level of $43 billion. Imports totaled $117.8 billion for the entire year of 2021, while exports hit $74.6 billion.

With the government scaling down the Alert Level and loosening the restrictions on mobility and mass gatherings across the archipelago, the year 2022 will undoubtedly witness a repeat of 2021 “revenge spending”. In fact, the spending is likely to be much more because of the election fever. Which means bigger trade deficits for an importdependent country.

This brings us to a perplexing economic puzzle: how can the Philippines, with its stagnant industrial base and eroding agricultural sector, sustain a consumption-led pattern of economic growth? Every year, economists uniformly describe Philippine growth as “consumption-led”.

Without low output by the two real sectors—industry and agriculture, how can such growth be sustained?

How can the ballooning trade deficits be sustained?

Who, in the first place, are doing the consuming and where do they get the means to finance consumption?

Ikea, the behemoth Swedish furniture king, knows the answer. It built its biggest global retail outlet right there in the Mall of Asia complex—65,000 square-meter facility.

The five-story Ikea building, estimated to be equal to 150 basketball courts, can accommodate 20,000 daily visitors. This does not include

Putin . . .

continued from A10

Cooperation in Europe, a top transAtlantic security grouping.

Russia has argued that Nato’s expansion eastward has hurt Russia’s security, violating the principle of “indivisibility of security” endorsed by the OSCE in 1999 and 2010. It says the US and its allies have ignored the principle that the security of one nation should not be strengthened at the expense of others, while insisting on every nation’s right to choose alliances.

In his letter, which was released by the foreign ministry, Lavrov said “there must be security for all or there will be no security for anyone.”

And in his call with Blinken, Lavrov warned that Moscow will not allow Washington to “hush up” the issue.

Blinken, meanwhile, emphasized “the US willingness, bilaterally and together with Allies and

Can the next administration alter this pattern of development? Can the next administration steer the country towards a new pattern of economic growth—one that is reliant on robust industrial and agricultural growth with strong support from the country’s OFW heroes and heroines? Time for the presidentiables to spell out their industrial and agricultural development programs.

yet the thousands more Filipinos who shop online.

The Ikea shoppers, like the 200,000 others who troop to the MOA complex, belong mostly to the families of overseas Filipino workers, the country’s lifesavers. Despite the Covid-19 pandemic, our hardworking OFWs, numbering over 10 million, have been able to remit over $30 billion a year to their families and relatives. This is pure money.

The problem is that not all Filipinos have OFW saviors. And not all OFWs are doing well and are able to remit money regularly to the home country.

However, in the estimate of this writer, there are at least 2 million OFWs who have stable jobs and have been religiously remitting funds for the wherewithal and welfare of their families back home. These 2 million able OFWs constitute one-fifth of the estimated 10 million Filipino contract workers and overseas Filipinos (permanent migrants).

How about the rest of the OFWs? There are around 4 million OFWs occupying low-end jobs, jobs that provide better compensation than those they can find in the Philippines. However, the compensation rates for these jobs are not enough to elevate their families to high-income or middle-class level.

As to the rest of the OFWs (four million or so), they are non-regular remitters. This is so because either they have no regular or permanent jobs or they have become permanent residents/citizens/immigrants in the host countries. This last category of overseas Filipinos (immigrants) usually sends money or balikbayan gifts only during Christmas or special occasions.

Now back to the 2 million wellpaid OFWs, they directly support at least 10 million Filipinos, assuming that there are five-to-six members in an OFW family. These 10 million who regularly receive financial contributions from the well-paid OFWs constitute a big market. Their spending is enough to sustain the operations of MOA, Ikea, Villar homes, Cebu Pacific and the whole galaxy of service enterprises sprouting across the country. By way of comparison, 10 million Filipinos are equal to the population of developed Sweden, the home country of Ikea. Ten million Filipinos are more than double the 5 million population of prosperous Singapore.

The trouble is that the above income and spending pattern among the OFWs and their families also contributes to the deepening of the social and economic inequality in the country. Families with no OFW

partners, to continue a substantive exchange with Russia on mutual security concerns.” However, State Department spokesman Ned Price said Blinken was resolute in “the US commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as the right of all countries to determine their own foreign policy and alliances.”

Blinken “urged immediate Russian de-escalation and the withdrawal of troops and equipment from Ukraine’s borders,” Price said.

He reaffirmed that “further invasion of Ukraine would be met with swift and severe consequences and urged Russia to pursue a diplomatic path.”

Senior State Department officials described the call as professional and “fairly candid,” noting that if Russia wanted to prove it isn’t going to invade Ukraine, it should withdraw its troops from the border and neighboring Belarus.

Shortly after speaking to Lavrov, Blinken convened a conference call

with the secretary general of NATO, the EU foreign policy chief and the chairman-in-office of the OSCE as part of efforts to ensure that the allies are engaged in any further contacts with Russia.

Speaking to reporters at the United Nations, Russia’s UN ambassador, Vassily Nebenzia, said the US statement about its readiness for dialogue “doesn’t correlate” with Washington sending planeloads of military equipment to Ukraine.

“I don’t know why the US is escalating tensions and at the same time accusing Russia,” he said.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson visited Kyiv for scheduled talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Johnson said the UK has a package of measures including sanctions ready to go “the moment the first Russian toecap crosses further into Ukrainian territory.”

“It is vital that Russia steps back and chooses a path of diplomacy, and

saviors have limited savings and limited spending capacity. With limited job and livelihood opportunities in the stagnant real sectors—industry and agriculture, the breadwinners of these non-OFW families usually end up in the other side of the huge services sector of the economy—the so-called informal sector (street vending, ambulant merchandisers, informal home services, non-registered repair services, home-based native food production, trisikad transport, etc.).

The inequality is further accentuated by the spending habit of the well-paid OFWs and their families.

Most of these well-paid OFWs tend to build “new homes” in the gated villages of highly urbanized towns or in the new “green” villages being developed by the OFW-oriented real estate developers. The poor towns and provinces where some of these OFWs hail from remain poor, visited by these OFWs only once in a while.

The diffusion of wealth and learning/skills acquired from overseas has become limited.

At any rate, is the above pattern of Philippine economic growth— industry-less, agriculture-less, import-dependent, deficit-and-debtprone and remittance-driven—sustainable? Can the next administration alter this pattern of development? Can the next administration steer the country towards a new pattern of economic growth—one that is reliant on robust industrial and agricultural growth with strong support from the country’s OFW heroes and heroines? Time for the presidentiables to spell out their industrial and agricultural development programs.

Dr. Rene E. Ofreneo is a Professor Emeritus of the University of the Philippines.

For comments, please write to reneofreneo@ gmail.com.

I believe that is still possible,” Johnson said. “We are keen to engage in dialogue, of course we are. But we have the sanctions ready.”

He said he would have a call with Putin on Wednesday, noting that the Russian leader was trying to “impose a new Yalta, new zones of influence” in a reference to the 1945 deal between the allied powers. “And it would not just be Ukraine that was drawn back into the Russian sphere of influence,” Johnson added.

In other developments, Biden was expected to nominate career foreign service officer Bridget Brink to assume the long-vacant diplomatic post of American ambassador to Ukraine, according to a US official familiar with the decision. Brink currently serves as the ambassador to Slovakia. Lee reported from Washington. Associated Press writers Yuras Karmanau in Kyiv, Ukraine, Jill Lawless in London, Dasha Litvinova in Moscow, Edith M. Lederer at the United Nations and Justin Spike in Budapest, Hungary, contributed to this report.

Is New York City safe? Violence, perception and a complicated reality

By Michael R. Sisak & Michelle L. Price Associated Press

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EW YORK—A teenage fastfood cashier shot to death in Manhattan. A woman pushed to her death in front of a subway train in Times Square. An 11-month-old girl wounded by a stray bullet in the Bronx. Two police officers killed in Harlem.

A string of headline-making violence in New York City has frayed nerves and become a rolling trauma for Mayor Eric Adams’ nascent administration.

But while January brought tragedy to the city, statistics suggest it is still about as safe or safer than it was a decade ago, when former Mayor Michael Bloomberg touted it as the “safest big city in America.”

New York City saw 28 killings in January, one fewer than the number

it averaged for that month over the prior 10 years.

Last year, as violence spiked nationwide, the total was 488—up from a record low of 292 in 2017 but a far cry from the early 1990s, when the city averaged over 2,000 killings a year. In 2011, the city had 515.

“In New York, it’s sort of this dual situation,” crime analyst Jeff Asher said. “It’s important to know that this is not the worst it has ever been, while also understanding that it has gotten significantly worse in the last few years.”

The number of people wounded by gunfire surged in New York City during the pandemic and remains stubbornly high.

But its homicide rate (5.5 killings per 100,000 people last year) has remained lower than that in the next six most populous cities, FBI and police crime data show, and lower also than many smaller cities like

Jacksonville, Florida; Fort Worth, Texas; and Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Adams, a former police captain who campaigned on a tough-oncrime message, says he is not only battling actual crime, but also a fear and perception of crime spiraling out of control. Research shows that people tend to be bad at understanding crime trends and generally assume the worst, Asher said.

Adams says he wants to blanket the city with police officers to reassure New Yorkers and visitors alike.

He has also given outsized attention to his old department in his first month on the job, making it a point to visit roll call, standing with officers after recent violence and taking the lead on directing new crimefighting strategies.

“Being safe is also feeling safe. No one wants to hear stats when they don’t feel safe,” Adams told TV station NY1 last week.

In New York, 2022 began with a string of the type of arbitrary crimes that unsettle people most.

K ristal Bayron-Nieves, the 19-year-old cashier killed January 9 in a late-night robbery at a Burger King in East Harlem, moved with her family to New York in search of a better life after Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico in 2017.

Michelle Go, the 40-year-old woman shoved to the tracks January 15 at the Times Square subway station, worked for the global consulting firm Deloitte and volunteered with the Junior League to help at-risk and homeless families.

The 11-month-old was hospitalized in critical condition after she was hit in the cheek by a stray bullet while sitting in a parked car with her mother on January 19, just days before her first birthday.

The slain officers, Jason Rivera, 22, and Wilbert Mora, 27, had joined

the NYPD with hopes of bridging longstanding divides between police and immigrant communities, like the ones they grew up in.

President Joe Biden is scheduled to visit New York on Thursday to discuss ways to curb gun violence— though it is hardly the only place wrestling with the issue.

Los Angeles, the nation’s second largest city, reported 397 killings in 2021, its most since 2007. Chicago had 797 last year, its most since 1996. Philadelphia set a record with 562 killings.

Fort Worth, Texas, a city onetenth the size of New York, went from 69 killings in 2019 to 118 last year. Oklahoma City had 91 killings last year, its highest total since 2012.

Jacksonville, Florida, reversed the trend, going from 140 killings in 2020 to 108 last year, but its homicide rate of 11.4 per 100,000 residents was still double that of New York City.

Still, the recent violence has pushed the Big Apple to a crossroads, with elected officials rushing to prove they’re tough on crime less than two years after leaders were going in the other direction after the Minneapolis police murder of George Floyd prompted a nationwide reckoning on criminal justice.

Elected as a progressive reformer, new Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg has found himself under fire after instructing staff not to prosecute some low-level offenses, like prostitution and some instances of resisting arrest. After a dustup with Police Commissioner Keechant Sewell, Bragg apologized and emphasized his office wasn’t backing away from serious cases, like gun violence and assaults on police.

State bail reforms enacted two years ago to limit pretrial detention have become the bogeyman of police unions and politicians.

A12 Thursday, February 3, 2022

NG collects P358.6-B duties and taxes from fuelmarking

T

By Cai U. Ordinario

@caiordinario

HE national government has collected a total of P358.608 billion in duties and taxes through the fuelmarking program it began more than 25 months ago.

The latest data released by the Department of Finance (DOF) showed this covered 35.924 billion liters of fuel marked between September 2019 and January 2022.

In its third year of implementation, the fuel-marking activities generated P73.61 billion, a 53.54-percent decline from the P158.44-billion collection in the second year of implementation. In its first year, the government collected P126.55 billion.

In terms of liters, there was a 60-percent decline in the fuel marked at 6.787 billion liters in the third year of implementation from the 17.086 billion liters marked in the second year of implementation. In the first year of the program, a total of 12.05 billion liters of fuel were marked.

Meanwhile, as of January 2022, the Bureau of Customs raked in P328.792 billion. The revenue figure collected by the Bureau of Internal Revenue

(BIR) was not yet updated and remained at the October level of P29.81 billion.

The third year of the program saw BOC collections dec line by 50.09 percent to P73.58 billion from the P147.44 billion collected in the second year of implementation. In its first year, the BOC collected P107.77 billion in duties and taxes.

T he BIR a lso saw a 99.73-percent decline in fuel collections to P29.93 million in the program’s third year of implementation from the P11.007 billion collected in the second year. In the first year of the program, the BIR collected P18.77 billion.

Meanwhile, Petron Corp. still cornered the lion’s share of volume of marked fuel at 24.2 percent, or 8.69 billion liters of the total.

Trailing Petron in the list of 27 participating companies are: Pilipinas Shell Petroleum Corp. with 6.54 billion liters; Unioil Petroleum Philippines Inc., 3.68 billion liters; Insular Oil Corp., 2.979 billion liters; and Seaoil Philippines Inc.,

2.86 billion liters.

By fuel type, diesel comprised the biggest chunk of marked fuel at 60.66 percent or 21.791 billion liters. This was followed by gasoline at 38.82 percent or 13.945 billion liters and kerosene at 0.52 percent or 188.05 million liters.

Most of the marked fuel was in Luzon, with 73.59 percent or 26.436 billion liters of the total. Next to Luzon is Mindanao with 20.92 percent or 7.517 billion liters and Visayas with 5.49 percent or 1.972 billion liters.

T he f uel-mark ing pro gram was launched with the aim of halting illegal importation, manufacturing and other fraudulent activities relating to the use and sale of petroleum products in the country.

Fuel marking makes use of a unique chemical marker that can be embedded at a molecular level in petroleum products—gasoline, diesel and kerosene—thereby enabling authorities to test, identify and distinguish petroleum products with paid excise taxes.

WIN: CUSI MUST QUIT, FACE RAPS IN SHARES SALE OF MALAMPAYA

S

ENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian is pressing for the resignation of Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi and other key Department of Energy (DOE) officials for “railroading approval of the sale” of Chevron Malampaya LLC Philippines’s 45-percent participating interest in the Malampaya gas project to “UC Malampaya—an indirect subsidiary of Udenna Corporation.”

In a privilege speech on Wednesday (February 2), the senator said the DOE officials are “criminally and administratively liable for graft, gross neglect of duty, and grave misconduct.”

Gatchalian noted that “with all that has happened, the Filipino people can no longer trust you to faithfully safeguard our country’s precious energy resources.”

Gatchalian cited the times that, in his view, the DOE officials “violated laws just so they could give a seal of approval to the sale of the 45-percent participating interest in the Malampaya gas project of Chevron Malampaya LLC Philippines, now known as UC 38 LLC, to UC Malampaya .”

The senator recalled that at the onset of the Senate inquiry into the $565-million or more than P40 billion Chevron-UC Malampaya deal, DOE officials prescribed prior government approval as dictated by Presidential Decree No. 87 and Department Circular 2007-04-0003 on such transaction, only to retract late last year after fi-

nancial evaluation of UC Malampaya yielded the findings that it has a negative $137.2 million working capital or negative P6.9 billion.

As such, the Senate Energy Committee chairman said Cusi and his subordinates are liable for the following: gross neglect of duty and grave misconduct in evaluating and approving this transaction; Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act for knowingly approving the transfer of the 45-percent participating interest in SC 38 to UC Malampaya—an entity that is clearly not qualified, and in so doing providing an unwarranted benefit, advantage, or preference to UC Malampaya through manifest partiality, evident bad faith, or gross inexcusable negligence in evaluating and approving the deal.

In reply to a case filed against him with the Ombudsman in October on the Malampaya case, Cusi, in a statement at the DOE web site, had described it as political harassment, given the runup to the May elections and his being the president of the ruling party, PDP-Laban.

He noted that two of the complainants were closely identified with the “OustDuterte” movement.

“The case is speculative, without basis and malicious. The questioned transaction is aboveboard,” added the DOE. Nonetheless, the DOE statement said they will answer all allegations at the proper time and forum.

Continued on A2

Companies

Editor: Jennifer A. Ng

Thursday, February 3, 2022

8990 posts record revenues on strong housing demand

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By VG Cabuag

@villygc

ass housing developer 8990 Holdings Inc. on Wednesday said its revenues grew 40 percent to a record P20 billion in 2021 from the previous year’s P14.23 billion on strong demand for its residential units. “ T hese resu lts ref lect t he strong demand for affordable housing, the optimism of our buyers in the economy and their confidence in the stability of their future revenue streams,” 8990 President and CEO Anthony Vincent Sotto said.

Sotto said the company “defied all odds” last year, such as the challenges brought on by the lingering pandemic and a typhoon that struck one of its key markets in the Visayas region.

The developer’s results are also about 30 percent higher than the

Citicore REIT kicks off IPO C

iticore Energy REIT Corp., has kicked off its P6.39billion initial public offering (IPO), which will be the country’s first listed energy real estate investment trust (REIT).

The company’s offer period will run through February 8 and its shares will be listed on the Philippine Stock Exchange on February 17 under the ticker symbol CREIT. The company is offering some 2.49 billion in common shares, which consists of 1.04 billion in primary common shares, 1.13 billion shares in secondary offering and an over-allotment option of 327.27 million, all with a par value of P0.25. It will be sold at an offer price of P2.55 apiece, or down from its initial indicative price of P3.15 apiece. Some 70 percent of its offering will be allocated for the institutional investors and the rest to the local market.

The company’s sponsor, Citicore Renewable Energy Corp.

(CREC), has decided to increase its stake in CREIT to 66 percent from an initial 57.4 percent, net of the over-allotment option, by reducing its offer size.

“The move reflects the sponsor’s vote of confidence in the company’s long-term sustainable growth and pursuit of a net zero carbon future for all,” it said.

After its IPO, it will have a public float of 38.3 percent, assuming the full exercise of the over-allotment option, which is above the required public ownership of 33.33 percent based on the revised REIT implementing rules and regulations (IRR).

“The company believes that a more affordable pricing will allow a broader set of investors to participate in CREIT’s value proposition, especially since these individuals and institutions will be our long-term partners,” Oliver Tan, the company’s president and CEO, said.

“What we want to offer in CREIT is a sustainable investment in various aspects – economical, for the investor; social, for the communities; and environmental, towards a zero-carbon future.”

The company said it intends to use the net proceeds from the primary offer to acquire properties within the Citicore group, such as those owned by Citicore Solar Bulacan Inc., Citicore South Cotabato or alternative properties of the sponsors.

Post-offer, CREIT plans to implement a dividend payout of at least 95 percent of its distributable income for the preceding year, which is a premium over the required dividend payout of at least 90 percent based on the REIT IRR. At an IPO price of P2.55 per share, CREIT’s implied dividend yields based on projected 2022 and 2023 earnings are 7 percent and 7.4 percent, respectively.

“We would also like to express our most sincere gratitude to our regulators, the SEC and the Philippine Stock Exchange as well as our underwriting syndicate, for their continued guidance and assistance to ensure that this landmark offering comes to fruition,” Tan added.

CREIT tapped Unicapital Inc. and BDO Capital and Investment Corp. as joint global coordinators for the offer. Unicapital will also serve as lead underwriter and issue manager. BDO Capital will serve as lead local underwriter alongside PNB Capital and Investment Corp., while Investment and Capital Corp. of the Philippines will act as participating underwriter and CIMB Investment Bank Bhd and CLSA Limited as international bookrunners. VG Cabuag

pre-pandemic 2019 revenues of P15.4 billion.

The company did not state its net income for the year.

For the full year, 8990 delivered 11,564 residential units to mainly local first-time buyers.

In terms of actual values the company registered a 41 percent and 59 percent split between their vertical and horizontal developments.

In terms of the number of units, mass housing or horizontal projects delivered 55 percent of total homes delivered for the year versus the 45 percent brought in by vertical projects.

For this year, the company said it targets to have some P23 billion in revenues, or 15 percent higher than last year’s sales.

The company said its huge land bank of 729.05 hectares located

B1

in strategic areas nationwide is more than capable of delivering the projected revenue growth for the year.

The company hopes to reach a total of P164 billion in sales for the next seven to eight years.

Sotto said the company acts fast in times of emergency, such as when typhoon Odette hit the Visayas region last December 16 and caused major damage in several provinces.

He said 8990’s property administrators reported that only less than 10 percent of the company’s built structures were affected.

“At 8990, we are proud of our team’s fast response to the super typhoon, to continuously implement measures that will protect our clients’ biggest life investment: their home.”

Meralco: SMC unit submits lowest bid S

outh Premiere Power Corp.

(SPPC), a power arm of conglomerate San Miguel Corp.

(SMC), submitted the lowest bid for the contract to supply 170-megawatt (MW) peaking power to the Manila Electric Co. (Meralco).

During the competitive selection process (CSP) held February 2, the Third-Party Bids and Awards Committee (TPBAC) declared SPPC’s offer of P6.8198 per kWh as the best bid.

SPPC’s offer was below the P7.2989 per kWh Total Delivered Headline reserve price, which includes value-added tax and other charges.

This CSP round, which involves a contract from February 26, 2022 to July 25, 2022, is part of Meralco’s preparations to ensure that there will be sufficient, reliable and costcompetitive supply for hot dry season months when demand is historically high.

“Upon the issuance of a notice of award, Meralco will enter into a PSA [power supply agreement] with

SPPC, which will then be submitted for approval by the Energy Regulatory Commission.

This PSA will help ensure availability of supply, which is especially critical in the upcoming dry months and the National and Local Elections,” said Meralco Head of Regulatory Management Office Jose Ronald V. Valles.

The TPBAC also received an offer from Global Business Power Corp., through its subsidiaries Panay Energy Development Corp., Toledo Power Co., and Panay Power Co.. The offer price was P9.7777 per kWh, exceeding the reserve price set for the bidding.

Therma Luzon Inc. initially expressed interest but withdrew its participation in this CSP round.

The TPBAC said the committee’s findings were based on a Pass/Fail assessment of the qualification documents for completeness. It will now conduct a postqualification evaluation prior to the issuance of the notice of award. Lenie Lectura

B2

Companies BusinessMirror

Thursday, February 3, 2022

AC Energy forges strategic partnership with SUPER

A

By Lenie Lectura

@llectura

C Energy Corp. (ACEN) is expanding its renewable energy (RE) portfolio across Asean by entering into a strategic partnership with Super Energy Corporation Public Company Limited (SUPER).

ACEN’s subsidiary, AC Energy Vietnam Investments Pte. Ltd. (ACEV), and SUPER’s subsidiary, Super Energy Group (Hong Kong) Co., Limited (Super HK), signed a share purchase agreement to acquire a 49-percent interest in Solar NT, which is owned by SUPER HK. The transaction, which will be via the acquisition of secondary shares for $165 million, is the beginning of a strategic partnership between ACEN and SUPER which will continue to expand their renewable footprints in Vietnam and to explore other

Southeast Asian markets.

“We are delighted to forge a strategic partnership with Super Energy Corporation through this investment,” said ACEN President and CEO Eric Francia. “SUPER has accomplished a lot in Vietnam, and we wish to support its solar expansion in Vietnam and beyond through our partnership. This will help accelerate ACEN’s aggressive renewables expansion across the region.”

SUPER, through its group companies, owns and operates 837 MW of solar projects in Vietnam.

Post-restructuring, Solar NT will own and operate nine solar power plants across Vietnam with a total capacity of approximately 837 megawatts.

The deal would expand ACEN’s international portfolio to more than 1,900 MW, of which more than 1,000 MW are in Vietnam.

“This transaction reinforces ACEN’s position as a pioneer player in the ASEAN renewable market.

ACEN is committed to supporting the energy transition in the region.

This helps create more sustainable jobs as we expand our operational portfolio which brings us closer to achieving our goal to become the largest listed renewables platform in Southeast Asia,” said Patrice Clausse, COO of AC Energy International and Director of ACEV. ACEN’s growth is anchored on partnerships in existing and new geographies and utilizing new technologies to lead the charge towards a sustainable future. Both ACEN and SUPER have a strong commitment towards sustainability and this strategic partnership will drive growth in renewable energy development across Asia.

“For this transaction, SUPER has an objective to form a strategic partnership in order to join forces in joint investment and solar energy power plant business development in ASEAN. The strategic partnership will strengthen SUPER’s capacity for growth through synergies and supports from the strategic partner in many areas, including capital, personnel, technology and networks for additional investment opportunities in the future,” said Jormsup Lochaya, chairman and CEO of SUPER. Bank of Ayudhya PCL was tapped as the sole financial advisor for SUPER for this transaction.

ACEN is the listed energy platform of the Ayala Group. It has over 3,000 MW of attributable capacity in the Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, India, and Australia. The company’s renewable share of capacity is about 80 percent, among the highest in the region.

ACEN’s aspiration is to become the largest listed renewables platform in Southeast Asia, with a goal of reaching 5,000 MW of renewables capacity by 2025. With a report

from Lorenz S. Marasigan

mutual funds

February 2, 2022

NAV

One Year Three Year

Five Year

per share Return*

Y-T-D Return

Stock Funds ALFM Growth Fund, Inc. -a

233.93

7.8%

-4.41%

-1.47%

0.36%

ATRAM Alpha Opportunity Fund, Inc. -a

1.6227

28.04%

2.45%

3.08%

-2.49%

8.13%

-7.88%

-4.26%

0.07%

ATRAM Philippine Equity Opportunity Fund, Inc. -a 3.2402

Climbs Share Capital Equity Investment Fund Corp. -a 0.7601 -0.54%

-7.37% n.a.

0.48%

First Metro Consumer Fund on MSCI Phils. IMI, Inc. -a 0.7707 9.72%

-4.11% n.a.

-0.03%

First Metro Save and Learn Equity Fund,Inc. -a

5.2176

First Metro Save and Learn Philippine Index Fund, Inc. -a MBG Equity Investment Fund, Inc. -a

92.28

10.26%

-2.11%

0.32%

0.67%

0.7862

11.34%

-4%

-3.11%

-3.3%

-8.82% n.a.

-2.28%

PAMI Equity Index Fund, Inc. -a

48.238

7.98%

-2.87%

0.16%

Philam Strategic Growth Fund, Inc. -a

502.42

7.58%

-2.79%

-0.43%

0.35%

Philequity Dividend Yield Fund, Inc. -a

1.391

23.9%

1.67%

2.75%

2.56%

Philequity Fund, Inc. -a

-1.83%

1.15%

0.54%

36.7923

10.73%

0.9506

9.25%

-3.08% n.a.

0.98%

Philequity PSE Index Fund Inc. -a

4.9746

8.87%

-2.18%

0.28%

Philippine Stock Index Fund Corp. -a

830.98

8.68%

-2.18%

0.77%

0.3%

Soldivo Strategic Growth Fund, Inc. -a

0.7514

8.8%

-6.18%

-2.41%

-0.16%

Sun Life Prosperity Philippine Equity Fund, Inc. -a 3.7851

8.98%

-4.22%

-0.72%

0.25%

Sun Life Prosperity Philippine Stock Index Fund, Inc. -a

0.9467

8.18%

-2.52%

0.53%

7.58%

-2.47%

1.06%

0.01%

United Fund, Inc. -a

3.4377

0.8%

0.37%

0.23%

Primarily invested in Peso securities (units) Philequity Alpha One Fund, Inc. -a

1.1703

Philippine Stock Index Fund Corp. -a

12.41% n.a. n.a.

0.65%

1022.39 n.a. n.a. n.a. n.a.

Exchange Traded Fund (shares) First Metro Phil. Equity Exchange Traded Fund, Inc. -a,c

111.8441

9%

-1.97%

1.25%

0.33%

Primarily invested in foreign currency securities (shares) -14.82%

2.87%

3.92%

-4.25%

Sun Life Prosperity World Voyager Fund, Inc. -a $1.6731

ATRAM AsiaPlus Equity Fund, Inc. -b $1.0786

-0.52%

11.91%

9.49%

-9.39%

Balanced Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities (shares) ATRAM Dynamic Allocation Fund, Inc. -a

1.6666

1.9%

-1.23%

-0.64%

-1.5%

ATRAM Philippine Balanced Fund, Inc. -a

2.2978

3.16%

-0.12%

0.15%

0.71%

0.61%

1.54%

0.56%

First Metro Save and Learn Balanced Fund Inc. -a 2.7062

5.91%

First Metro Save and Learn F.O.C.C.U.S. Dynamic Fund, Inc. -a 0.213 NCM Mutual Fund of the Phils., Inc. -a

2.0212

10.42% n.a. n.a.

4.51%

1.85%

2.01%

PAMI Horizon Fund, Inc. -a

3.7708

2.11%

1.26%

0.79%

0.15%

16.8771

2.16%

0.84%

0.78%

0.19%

Solidaritas Fund, Inc. -a

2.122

4.05%

-0.5%

0.61%

0.03%

Sun Life of Canada Prosperity Balanced Fund, Inc. -a 3.6489 4.74%

-1.51%

0.18%

0.05%

Sun Life Prosperity Dynamic Fund, Inc. -a

-0.03%

0.78%

1.25%

0.9661

12.12%

1.91%

0.22%

Philam Fund, Inc. -a

Primarily invested in Peso securities (units) Sun Life Prosperity Achiever Fund 2028, Inc. -a

0.9798

-2% n.a. n.a.

Sun Life Prosperity Achiever Fund 2038, Inc. -a

0.9474

3.7% n.a. n.a.

0.31%

Sun Life Prosperity Achiever Fund 2048, Inc. -a

0.9363

4.57% n.a. n.a.

0.26%

-1.01%

Primarily invested in foreign currency securities (shares) Cocolife Dollar Fund Builder, Inc. -a $0.03678 PAMI Asia Balanced Fund, Inc. -b

$1.0417

-5.55%

1.16%

0.92%

-3.06%

-12.26%

2.52%

2.68%

-2.38%

Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Advantage Fund, Inc. -a $4.4869 -0.94%

8.63%

7.11%

-6.56%

Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Wellspring Fund, Inc. -a,2 $1.1481 -2.8%

4.42%

3.57%

-4.21%

Bond Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities (shares) ALFM Peso Bond Fund, Inc. -a

374.5

0.82%

2.78%

2.5%

0.05%

ATRAM Corporate Bond Fund, Inc. -a

1.8866

-0.9%

0.28%

-0.01%

0.1%

Cocolife Fixed Income Fund, Inc. -a

3.2471

0.9%

2.86%

3.81%

0.1%

Ekklesia Mutual Fund Inc. -a

2.2487

-2.18%

1.6%

1.37%

-0.12%

First Metro Save and Learn Fixed Income Fund,Inc. -a 2.4278 -0.95%

0.07%

Philam Bond Fund, Inc. -a

2.87%

1.84%

4.397

-5.5%

4.06%

1.4%

0.03%

1.3222

-0.04%

3.75%

2.88%

0.24%

Philequity Peso Bond Fund, Inc. -a

3.9814

-0.08%

3.72%

2.67%

0.39%

Soldivo Bond Fund, Inc. -a

1.0284

-1%

4.16%

1.92%

0.02%

Sun Life of Canada Prosperity Bond Fund, Inc. -a 3.1881

-0.49%

4.16%

3.18%

0.02%

Sun Life Prosperity GS Fund, Inc. - a

-1.09%

3.33%

2.53%

0.02%

Philam Managed Income Fund, Inc. -a

1.731

Primarily invested in foreign currency securities (shares) ALFM Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -a

$488.38

0.8%

2.76%

2.41%

Є219.22

-0.04%

0.85%

1.03%

-0.36%

ATRAM Total Return Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -b $1.1824

-7.5%

1.24%

1.35%

-1.79%

First Metro Save and Learn Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -a $0.0257 -2.65%

1.06%

0.72%

-1.15%

PAMI Global Bond Fund, Inc -b

$0.9926

-8.97%

-1.66%

-1.21%

-2.95%

Philam Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -a

$2.4363

-3.65%

3.33%

2.26%

-2.77%

$0.0619455

-1.26%

2.66%

1.84%

-0.56%

Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Abundance Fund, Inc. -a $3.0798 -3.99%

1.97%

1.07%

-3.64%

ALFM Euro Bond Fund, Inc. -a

Philequity Dollar Income Fund Inc. -a

-0.24%

Money Market Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities (shares) ALFM Money Market Fund, Inc. -a

1.02%

2.64%

2.54%

First Metro Save and Learn Money Market Fund, Inc. -a

131.31

1.0589

0.96% n.a. n.a.

Sun Life Prosperity Peso Starter Fund, Inc. -a,1 1.3173

1.47%

2.51%

0.09% 2.52%

0.11%

0.13%

Primarily invested in foreign currency securities (shares) Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Starter Fund, Inc. -a $1.061

0.72%

1.39% n.a.

0.04%

Feeder Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities (units) ALFM Global Multi-Asset Income Fund Inc. -a

46.13 n.a. n.a. n.a. n.a.

Sun Life Prosperity World Equity Index Feeder Fund, Inc. -a 1.2908

14.17% n.a. n.a.

-6.66%

Primarily invested in foreign currency securities (units) ALFM Global Multi-Asset Income Fund Inc. -a

$0.94

-4.08% 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.

PSE STOCK QUOTATIONS

February 2, 2022

Net Foreign Stocks Bid Ask Open High Low Close Volume Value Trade (Peso) Buy (Sell) FINANCIALs

ASIA UNITED BDO UNIBANK BANK PH ISLANDS CHINABANK EAST WEST BANK METROBANK PB BANK PBCOM PHIL NATL BANK PSBANK RCBC SECURITY BANK UNION BANK BRIGHT KINDLE COL FINANCIAL FIRST ABACUS FERRONOUX HLDG FILIPINO FUND MANULIFE PHIL STOCK EXCH VANTAGE

292,165 620,629,625 351,420,986 4,682,725 2,409,256 209,058,659 883 9,240 4,007,375 56,046 723,650 311,426,975 7,260,291 296,490 20,330 22,320 51,360 119,316 9,900 118,928 206,710

-8,980 261,092,174 62,423,207 -2,705,300 -1,479,864 31,683,861 -349,565 -24,950,499 310,777 3,840 8,550 -

INDUSTRIAL AC ENERGY 9.5 9.53 9.55 9.56 9.47 9.5 18,248,100 173,636,543 1.02 1.04 1.01 1.04 1.01 1.04 58,000 60,270 ALSONS CONS ABOITIZ POWER 34.2 34.5 35.3 35.3 34.2 34.2 1,910,600 66,141,220 BASIC ENERGY 0.52 0.53 0.52 0.53 0.51 0.52 5,060,000 2,636,610 27.95 28 28.05 28.4 27.7 27.95 849,200 23,787,970 FIRST GEN FIRST PHIL HLDG 70 70.4 70 70 69.95 70 58,320 4,081,506 329.2 334.6 335 335 329.2 329.2 143,640 47,681,302 MERALCO 25.4 25.5 25 25.75 24.8 25.5 1,119,100 28,495,730 MANILA WATER PETRON 3.3 3.31 3.26 3.32 3.23 3.31 776,000 2,552,300 PETROENERGY 4.14 4.3 4.05 4.33 4.05 4.33 43,000 185,030 10.66 10.82 10.66 10.82 10.66 10.82 20,100 215,066 PHX PETROLEUM SYNERGY GRID 12.78 12.8 12.72 12.96 12.72 12.78 4,588,500 58,835,610 PILIPINAS SHELL 19.08 19.16 19 19.2 19 19.16 86,500 1,654,530 14.34 14.36 14.3 14.36 14.3 14.36 157,900 2,266,250 SPC POWER SOLAR PH 2.32 2.33 2.22 2.32 2.19 2.32 149,844,000 339,562,960 AGRINURTURE 4.75 4.85 4.79 4.94 4.76 4.85 259,000 1,256,420 2.84 2.89 2.89 2.89 2.84 2.89 397,000 1,141,000 AXELUM BOGO MEDELLIN 50.35 59.9 69 69 69 69 10 690 12.92 13.38 12.98 12.98 12.92 12.92 4,500 58,284 CNTRL AZUCARERA 27.2 27.25 28.3 28.4 27.25 27.25 1,255,500 34,458,685 CENTURY FOOD 15.26 15.3 15.3 15.4 15.3 15.3 23,000 351,990 DEL MONTE DNL INDUS 8.65 8.66 8.5 8.75 8.5 8.66 2,118,200 18,309,538 23.9 24.15 23.75 25 23.7 23.9 6,168,600 150,754,880 EMPERADOR 68.55 69 70 70 68.55 68.55 317,730 22,009,259.50 SMC FOODANDBEV FIGARO COFFEE 0.89 0.9 0.83 0.9 0.83 0.9 201,364,000 178,275,040 0.59 0.61 0.59 0.6 0.59 0.6 1,262,000 757,080 ALLIANCE SELECT 1.21 1.24 1.24 1.24 1.21 1.24 3,876,000 4,751,420 FRUITAS HLDG GINEBRA 113.8 114 117 117 113 114 71,680 8,172,205 243 244.4 239.8 245 239.4 244.4 691,720 168,234,410 JOLLIBEE 1.5 1.51 1.47 1.54 1.47 1.51 26,880,000 40,431,600 KEEPERS HLDG MACAY HLDG 5.55 6.6 5.52 5.52 5.52 5.52 100 552 6.6 6.69 6.74 6.74 6.55 6.6 93,100 621,903 MAXS GROUP 0.139 0.14 0.142 0.142 0.14 0.14 150,000 21,100 MG HLDG MONDE NISSIN 16.5 16.56 16.5 16.8 16.44 16.56 14,048,800 232,297,598 9.63 9.65 9.5 9.8 9.5 9.65 219,700 2,121,413 SHAKEYS PIZZA 0.65 0.66 0.65 0.67 0.63 0.65 1,858,000 1,195,220 ROXAS AND CO RFM CORP 4.5 4.55 4.55 4.55 4.55 4.55 142,000 646,100 0.107 0.108 0.106 0.107 0.105 0.107 2,950,000 314,050 SWIFT FOODS 126.9 127 127 128.2 126.6 127 749,000 95,544,731 UNIV ROBINA VITARICH 0.64 0.66 0.68 0.68 0.63 0.63 6,505,000 4,204,880 VICTORIAS 2.42 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 1,000 2,500 1.07 1.08 1.05 1.08 1.05 1.08 806,000 855,930 CEMEX HLDG EAGLE CEMENT 14.06 14.14 14.14 14.14 14.04 14.06 479,200 6,767,716 EEI CORP 6.24 6.34 6.2 6.35 6.2 6.34 103,900 652,720 5.86 5.88 5.91 5.91 5.87 5.87 112,100 660,724 HOLCIM MEGAWIDE 4.82 4.85 4.93 4.98 4.82 4.85 1,745,000 8,486,160 PHINMA 20.95 21 20.95 21.05 20.95 21 25,000 524,995 0.77 0.8 0.8 0.8 0.8 0.8 1,000 800 TKC METALS VULCAN INDL 0.84 0.85 0.83 0.91 0.83 0.85 685,000 593,440 1.7 1.73 1.7 1.73 1.7 1.73 48,000 82,980 CROWN ASIA 1.42 1.44 1.44 1.44 1.42 1.42 18,000 25,580 EUROMED MABUHAY VINYL 4.3 4.35 4.3 4.35 4.3 4.35 21,000 90,950 5.7 5.79 5.74 5.79 5.7 5.79 64,000 367,724 PRYCE CORP 20.6 21.1 21.15 21.15 20.6 20.6 1,900 40,075 CONCEPCION GREENERGY 1.92 1.94 1.9 1.94 1.9 1.94 4,383,000 8,435,930 INTEGRATED MICR 10.56 10.58 10.42 10.66 10.36 10.56 1,173,700 12,348,722 0.7 0.72 0.7 0.72 0.7 0.72 375,000 262,540 IONICS PANASONIC 6.01 6.08 6 6.08 5.99 6.08 21,100 126,598 1.08 1.11 1.1 1.12 1.07 1.12 15,000 16,180 SFA SEMICON 3.86 3.87 3.87 4 3.83 3.86 1,639,000 6,390,830 CIRTEK HLDG

35,944,431 -1,043,445 -18,735,210 3,519,160 717,580 -142,950 -3,822,626 -562,988 7,180 11,367,920 -900,450 766,350 -11,756,060 744,278 12,475,745 -6,555,740.50 2,009,500 2,480 -3,995,986 15,921,308 632,540 33,000 -44,676,368 -1,248,383 -878,540 577,850 1,050 -34,112,745 -3,761,150 10,500 861,808 8,073 -13,613 -5,460,690 110 -3,887,170 2,296,118 70,000 656,050

ABACORE CAPITAL AYALA CORP ABOITIZ EQUITY ALLIANCE GLOBAL ANSCOR ANGLO PHIL HLDG ATN HLDG A ATN HLDG B COSCO CAPITAL DMCI HLDG FILINVEST DEV FORUM PACIFIC GT CAPITAL JG SUMMIT KEPPEL HLDG A LODESTAR LOPEZ HLDG LT GROUP MABUHAY HLDG METRO PAC INV PACIFICA HLDG PRIME MEDIA SOLID GROUP SM INVESTMENTS SAN MIGUEL CORP SEAFRONT RES TOP FRONTIER WELLEX INDUS ZEUS HLDG

-1,890 33,761,290 -1,749,860 -3,309,068 -5,764,050.00 1,037,036 -18,699,217 9,620 27,828,205 5,847,392 -8,550 -168,270 -11,959,769 -2,826,490 -24,150 9,200 111,161,690 -244,197 33,345 -

HOLDING & FRIMS

44 139.6 100.6 25.4 9.43 59.55 8.84 17.74 20.8 57.6 20.7 110 103 1.85 4.05 0.62 2.81 6.52 931 209 0.79

0.89 878 62.5 12.86 7.82 0.88 0.85 0.83 5.24 8.49 7.15 0.26 583 61.5 6.4 0.62 2.94 9.9 0.37 3.9 2.8 1.15 1.07 965 109.9 2.4 123.1 0.22 0.17

45 139.7 100.7 25.5 9.5 59.8 9.19 18.46 20.85 57.65 20.95 110.2 103.6 1.9 4.09 0.69 2.98 7.67 990 210 0.8

0.9 880 62.8 13.02 7.95 0.89 0.86 0.84 5.25 8.5 7.39 0.28 583.5 61.65 6.88 0.63 3.17 10 0.415 3.92 2.81 1.17 1.16 976.5 110 2.77 124.9 0.24 0.174

44.9 136 98.7 25.45 9.37 59 8.83 18.48 20.5 57.7 20.45 107.6 102 1.92 4.05 0.62 2.86 6.52 990 209 0.81

0.9 862 63 12.8 7.89 0.88 0.82 0.78 5.22 8.42 7.4 0.265 573.5 62.45 6.4 0.59 3.17 10 0.38 3.84 2.81 1.13 1.07 949 112 2.15 123.5 0.22 0.17

45 140 102.5 25.5 9.5 59.85 8.83 18.48 20.95 57.7 20.95 111.4 105 1.92 4.09 0.62 2.86 6.52 990 210 0.81

0.91 915 63.4 13.18 8 0.89 0.85 0.91 5.26 8.58 7.4 0.265 589.5 62.45 6.4 0.62 3.17 10.12 0.38 3.94 2.81 1.17 1.15 995 112.3 2.4 123.5 0.22 0.17

44 135.8 98.7 25.4 9.35 58.95 8.83 18.48 20.4 56 20.45 107.6 102 1.85 4.05 0.62 2.85 6.52 990 208 0.8

0.89 862 62.05 12.8 7.8 0.88 0.8 0.78 5.22 8.41 7.15 0.26 573.5 60.7 6.4 0.58 2.94 9.9 0.375 3.84 2.81 1.13 1.06 949 110 2.15 123.1 0.22 0.17

44 139.7 100.6 25.5 9.43 59.55 8.83 18.48 20.8 57 20.95 110 103.6 1.9 4.09 0.62 2.85 6.52 990 210 0.8

0.9 878 62.5 12.86 7.8 0.89 0.85 0.84 5.24 8.49 7.15 0.26 583.5 61.5 6.4 0.62 2.94 9.9 0.375 3.9 2.81 1.15 1.15 965 110 2.4 123.1 0.22 0.17

6,500 4,471,750 3,487,990 183,800 255,200 3,505,810 100 500 192,900 990 34,900 2,819,660 70,310 156,000 5,000 36,000 18,000 18,300 10 570 258,000

2,505,000 282,440 772,650 2,070,500 81,500 76,000 68,070,000 21,829,000 412,300 5,788,600 5,000 50,000 227,570 900,620 20,000 252,000 76,000 4,658,500 150,000 17,002,000 34,000 69,000 570,000 303,110 175,640 24,000 300 50,000 30,000

2,245,850 251,307,705 48,276,648.50 26,897,238 644,184 66,940 56,906,990 18,781,160 2,161,976 49,166,980 36,575 13,150 133,036,225 55,540,735 128,000 151,460 224,870 46,481,586 56,550 66,242,160 95,540 78,830 605,050 295,141,470 19,410,718 57,250 37,038 11,000 5,100

PROPERTY

0.23%

Philequity MSCI Philippine Index Fund, Inc. -a

www.businessmirror.com.ph

-3.09%

d - in Net Asset Value per Unit (NAVPU).

1 - Renaming was approved by the SEC last July 8, 2021 (formerly, Sun Life Prosperity Money Market Fund, Inc.).

2 - Adjusted due to stock dividend issuance last November 25, 2021.

"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 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."

ARTHALAND CORP 0.61 0.62 0.62 0.62 0.62 0.62 10,000 6,200 37 37.1 36.4 38 36.4 37 17,667,400 658,425,710 AYALA LAND AYALA LAND LOG 5.88 5.9 5.89 5.98 5.8 5.88 1,367,400 8,054,417 ARANETA PROP 0.97 1.01 1.02 1.02 0.97 1.01 53,000 54,000 50.85 51.2 50.85 51.9 50.85 50.85 743,770 37,958,486.50 AREIT RT A BROWN 0.73 0.76 0.78 0.78 0.73 0.73 333,000 243,850 0.73 0.74 0.74 0.76 0.74 0.74 133,000 99,020 CITYLAND DEVT 0.101 0.105 0.101 0.105 0.101 0.105 11,460,000 1,158,740 CROWN EQUITIES CEB LANDMASTERS 2.9 2.91 2.91 2.92 2.9 2.91 572,000 1,661,350 CENTURY PROP 0.41 0.415 0.41 0.415 0.39 0.415 15,770,000 6,357,000 7.13 7.17 6.99 7.17 6.8 7.17 1,828,200 12,709,147 DOUBLEDRAGON DDMP RT 1.78 1.79 1.79 1.8 1.78 1.79 6,706,000 11,954,180 DM WENCESLAO 6.71 6.8 6.83 6.83 6.11 6.71 3,372,800 20,641,961 0.325 0.33 0.35 0.36 0.33 0.33 23,480,000 7,901,450 EVER GOTESCO FILINVEST RT 7.52 7.57 7.61 7.61 7.51 7.52 2,388,700 17,994,436 FILINVEST LAND 1.08 1.09 1.08 1.1 1.08 1.08 2,755,000 2,998,870 0.94 0.96 0.94 0.96 0.94 0.95 12,000 11,310 GLOBAL ESTATE 8990 HLDG 10.7 10.92 11.02 11.02 10.72 10.92 284,500 3,102,606 PHIL INFRADEV 1.05 1.06 1.05 1.07 1.05 1.06 790,000 833,570 0.85 0.88 0.86 0.88 0.85 0.88 58,000 49,860 CITY AND LAND MEGAWORLD 3.17 3.19 3.12 3.22 3.12 3.17 17,421,000 55,526,750 MRC ALLIED 0.255 0.26 0.25 0.26 0.25 0.255 3,900,000 1,000,950 21.95 22 22.5 22.6 22 22 3,651,600 81,205,320 MREIT RT 0.35 0.39 0.36 0.365 0.36 0.36 350,000 126,500 OMICO CORP PHIL ESTATES 0.475 0.48 0.48 0.48 0.47 0.48 1,870,000 892,400 2.12 2.13 2.04 2.13 2.04 2.13 530,000 1,096,440 PRIMEX CORP 8.06 8.19 8.4 8.4 8.06 8.06 13,968,900 114,639,312 RL COMM RT ROBINSONS LAND 19 19.2 18.4 19.22 18.4 19.2 5,252,700 99,215,660 0.201 0.208 0.21 0.21 0.201 0.201 240,000 49,200 PHIL REALTY 1.48 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.46 1.47 20,000 29,480 ROCKWELL SHANG PROP 2.55 2.57 2.55 2.57 2.55 2.55 201,000 512,850 2.74 2.8 2.8 2.88 2.8 2.8 1,274,000 3,570,720 STA LUCIA LAND 36.1 36.2 35.25 36.4 35.25 36.2 10,282,100 371,077,805 SM PRIME HLDG VISTAMALLS 3.63 3.73 3.6 3.7 3.6 3.7 48,000 175,140 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.1 1.07 1.07 250,000 268,120 SUNTRUST HOME 33.05 56.4 32.95 32.95 32.95 32.95 100 3,295 PTFC REDEV CORP VISTA LAND 3.48 3.5 3.48 3.52 3.48 3.52 585,000 2,047,030

SERVICES ABS CBN 12.4 12.42 11.36 12.52 11.36 12.42 451,000 5,469,538 15.12 15.14 14.7 15.22 14.7 15.14 2,809,500 42,402,542 GMA NETWORK MANILA BULLETIN 0.415 0.44 0.415 0.44 0.415 0.44 20,000 8,550 9.05 9.99 9.01 9.01 9.01 9.01 300 2,703 MLA BRDCASTING 3,166 3,170 3,118 3,190 3,118 3,170 65,585 207,890,800 GLOBE TELECOM PLDT 1,860 1,870 1,835 1,876 1,834 1,860 105,800 197,288,045 APOLLO GLOBAL 0.069 0.07 0.071 0.073 0.068 0.069 468,500,000 32,754,170 30.5 30.85 30.65 31.4 30.5 30.5 2,970,600 91,738,665 CONVERGE DFNN INC 2.35 2.41 2.42 2.42 2.32 2.41 324,000 754,040 DITO CME HLDG 5.15 5.16 4.82 5.3 4.61 5.15 33,987,800 169,442,154 1.65 1.7 1.59 1.65 1.59 1.65 2,000 3,240 JACKSTONES NOW CORP 1.33 1.34 1.26 1.33 1.24 1.33 2,148,000 2,730,540 TRANSPACIFIC BR 0.355 0.36 0.375 0.38 0.355 0.355 11,080,000 4,052,400 7.34 7.6 7.6 7.6 7.34 7.34 19,500 144,572 2GO GROUP ASIAN TERMINALS 13.9 13.92 14 14 13.92 13.92 8,100 112,800 1.61 1.63 1.6 1.63 1.6 1.63 347,000 557,050 CHELSEA 46.35 46.5 45.15 47.4 45.15 46.5 1,113,400 51,795,450 CEBU AIR INTL CONTAINER 200.2 203 201 204.2 200 200.2 1,259,240 254,526,758 LBC EXPRESS 23.85 24.75 23.8 23.85 23.8 23.85 1,800 42,875 5.69 5.7 5.43 5.72 5.43 5.69 2,608,200 14,732,148 MACROASIA 1.05 1.06 1.08 1.08 1.07 1.07 14,000 15,000 METROALLIANCE A HARBOR STAR 0.84 0.85 0.84 0.85 0.83 0.85 85,000 71,500 1.5 1.58 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 14,000 21,000 ACESITE HOTEL 1.76 1.79 1.75 1.79 1.75 1.79 33,000 58,540 DISCOVERY WORLD WATERFRONT 0.465 0.48 0.465 0.47 0.465 0.47 730,000 340,450 6.51 6.88 6.51 6.51 6.51 6.51 300 1,953 CENTRO ESCOLAR 6.87 7 6.81 6.85 6.81 6.85 11,600 79,396 IPEOPLE STI HLDG 0.34 0.345 0.335 0.35 0.335 0.35 480,000 162,350 1.32 1.35 1.35 1.35 1.32 1.34 190,000 253,100 BELLE CORP 6.38 6.41 6.36 6.43 6.3 6.38 4,512,200 28,803,557 BLOOMBERRY PACIFIC ONLINE 1.77 1.8 1.8 1.8 1.77 1.8 9,000 16,050 1.56 1.57 1.43 1.63 1.43 1.56 5,335,000 8,326,540 LEISURE AND RES 0.7 0.71 0.75 0.75 0.7 0.7 3,585,000 2,558,280 PH RESORTS GRP PREMIUM LEISURE 0.445 0.455 0.45 0.455 0.445 0.455 4,590,000 2,067,100 5 6 5.6 5.6 5.6 5.6 39,200 219,520 PHIL RACING 1.97 1.98 1.95 1.97 1.91 1.97 445,000 867,730 PHILWEB ALLDAY 0.58 0.59 0.59 0.6 0.58 0.58 51,892,000 30,325,900 5.61 5.75 5.75 5.75 5.61 5.61 1,100 6,311 BERJAYA 8.57 8.61 8.51 8.8 8.5 8.61 590,200 5,046,849 ALLHOME METRO RETAIL 1.38 1.39 1.37 1.38 1.37 1.38 375,000 515,640 36.75 37.3 37.15 37.8 36.75 36.75 1,663,000 61,945,175 PUREGOLD 57.2 57.3 57.5 57.5 56.55 57.2 1,590,870 91,075,360.50 ROBINSONS RTL PHIL SEVEN CORP 87.6 89 88.2 89 88.2 89 1,910 169,786 SSI GROUP 1.1 1.11 1.09 1.11 1.07 1.11 1,739,000 1,896,510 29.5 30 30 30.2 29.1 29.5 1,852,900 55,505,310 WILCON DEPOT APC GROUP 0.229 0.239 0.23 0.24 0.226 0.226 680,000 154,700 3.98 4.47 3.98 3.98 3.98 3.98 2,000 7,960 EASYCALL 6.9 7 6.85 7 6.85 7 1,100 7,550 IPM HLDG MEDILINES 1.01 1.02 1.01 1.05 1.01 1.01 3,253,000 3,331,800 PRMIERE HORIZON 0.54 0.55 0.57 0.58 0.53 0.54 11,791,000 6,408,180 4 4.1 3.79 4 3.79 4 96,000 377,780 SBS PHIL CORP

MINING & OIL ATOK 5.9 6.04 5.94 6.09 5.9 5.9 185,300 1,102,654 APEX MINING 1.7 1.71 1.66 1.73 1.66 1.7 3,235,000 5,509,320 ATLAS MINING 6.06 6.1 6.01 6.13 6.01 6.1 125,800 768,600 5.08 5.11 5.06 5.06 5.06 5.06 100 506 BENGUET A COAL ASIA HLDG 0.26 0.28 0.28 0.28 0.26 0.26 540,000 143,050 2.65 2.72 2.6 2.72 2.6 2.72 75,000 198,350 CENTURY PEAK 5.01 5.44 5.01 5.44 5.01 5.44 200 1,045 DIZON MINES FERRONICKEL 2.19 2.2 2.18 2.22 2.14 2.2 2,475,000 5,395,840 GEOGRACE 0.195 0.21 0.21 0.21 0.21 0.21 160,000 33,600 0.136 0.138 0.138 0.138 0.136 0.138 7,240,000 988,560 LEPANTO A LEPANTO B 0.135 0.141 0.135 0.135 0.135 0.135 50,000 6,750 0.0095 0.0098 0.0095 0.0095 0.0094 0.0094 7,000,000 66,000 MANILA MINING A 1.45 1.47 1.46 1.51 1.46 1.47 1,047,000 1,547,060 MARCVENTURES NIHAO 0.94 0.95 0.93 0.94 0.93 0.94 222,000 207,790 5.95 6 5.88 6.05 5.88 6 6,903,200 41,342,506 NICKEL ASIA 0.83 0.84 0.83 0.84 0.83 0.83 58,000 48,230 ORNTL PENINSULA PX MINING 5.19 5.2 5.25 5.35 5.11 5.2 2,168,300 11,213,019 SEMIRARA MINING 25.2 25.3 25.05 25.45 25 25.3 1,703,200 43,048,180 0.0068 0.007 0.0071 0.0071 0.0071 0.0071 1,000,000 7,100 UNITED PARAGON ACE ENEXOR 32.4 32.45 31.2 32.4 30.2 32.4 1,217,300 38,512,355 ORNTL PETROL A 0.012 0.013 0.012 0.013 0.012 0.013 23,600,000 290,700 0.012 0.013 0.012 0.012 0.012 0.012 1,000,000 12,000 ORNTL PETROL B 0.0091 0.0093 0.0092 0.0092 0.0091 0.0091 41,000,000 374,100 PHILODRILL PXP ENERGY 5.76 5.93 5.95 5.95 5.8 5.93 1,267,600 7,418,003

PREFFERED HOUSE PREF B 99.5 101 99.5 99.5 99.5 99.5 5,000 497,500 101 101.2 101 101 101 101 2,000 202,000 HOUSE PREF A ALCO PREF C 102.4 109.9 109.9 109.9 109.9 109.9 10 1,099 512.5 524 512 512.5 512 512.5 900 460,900 ALCO PREF D 103.7 104.1 103.6 104.1 103.5 103.7 16,680 1,733,696 BRN PREF A CEB PREF 45 45.65 43.5 45.95 43.5 45.65 50,900 2,303,195 DD PREF 100.5 100.7 100.2 100.8 100.2 100.5 1,870 188,466 106 108 108.5 108.5 105.6 108 25,600 2,722,110 EEI PREF B FGEN PREF G 104.5 105 105 105 105 105 20 2,100 1,002 1,006 1,006 1,006 1,006 1,006 365 367,190 JFC PREF B 100 100.1 100 100 100 100 9,190 919,000 MWIDE PREF 4 PNX PREF 3B 102.5 103.1 103.1 103.1 103.1 103.1 50 5,155 996 1,000 997 997 996 997 8,710 8,680,800 PNX PREF 4 1,048 1,060 1,048 1,048 1,048 1,048 150 157,200 PCOR PREF 3A PCOR PREF 3B 1,064 1,080 1,060 1,080 1,060 1,080 380 405,110 79 79.7 79.25 79.7 79 79.7 171,950 13,591,604.50 SMC PREF 2F 75.8 76.5 75.85 75.85 75.75 75.8 117,440 8,901,502 SMC PREF 2H SMC PREF 2K 76.05 76.35 76 76.4 75.85 75.85 58,600 4,450,945 51 52 51 51 51 51 1,000 51,000 TECH PREF B2C 53.1 53.65 53.25 53.25 53.1 53.1 12,150 646,161.50 TECH PREF B2D

PHIL. DEPOSITARY RECEIPTS ABS HLDG PDR 11.18 11.8 10.98 11.64 10.9 11.14 26,600 294,528 14.4 14.48 13.98 14.48 13.98 14.4 240,200 3,393,290 GMA HLDG PDR

WARRANTS TECH WARRANT 0.92 0.93 0.96 0.97 0.91 0.92 1,115,000 1,040,850

267,181,295 496,998 16,339,802.50 -6,840 -43,690 8,050 -2,933,235 -69,600 1,174,794 -504,770 324,330 -5,256,100 -33,633,530 -1,689,218 11,131,264 2,920 -42,750 126,133,205 273,810 -3,550,300 87,650,090 -105,000 14,611,275 -635,680 10,391,405 -1,559,850 86,950 -25,600 2,676,835 15,531,248 -19,040 -1,423,821 -6,000 6,800 4,050 -3,492,819 1,294,020 151,160 -32,400 432,168 -1,850,175 18,540,732.50 -7,104 -198,680 23,476,330 64,000 36,190.00 34,000 188,793 94,350 394,030 -2,100 -1,216,755 -680,704 2,705,995 -246,465 -3,348,958 -208,000 -823,470 -3,057,720 -

SMALL & MEDIUM ENTERPRISES ALTUS PROP HAUS TALK ITALPINAS MERRYMART XURPAS

17.9 1.2 1.02 1.78 0.445

18.42 1.21 1.06 1.79 0.46

EXHANGE TRADE FUNDS

FIRST METRO ETF

113.7

114

18.6 1.25 1.05 1.84 0.465

18.6 1.27 1.07 1.89 0.48

17.84 1.2 1.02 1.77 0.44

17.9 1.2 1.06 1.78 0.46

9,300 6,840,000 451,000 5,648,000 5,170,000

166,944 8,324,720 473,820 10,231,070 2,362,500

-72,932 13,980 239,910 -88,330 3,150 647,890 31,750

111.9 114 111.7 114 32,240 3,658,794 27,525

Agriculture/Commodities BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Editor: Jennifer A. Ng • Thursday, February 3, 2022 B3

PHL slaps ban on poultry from Spain, Croatia

By Tyrone Jasper C. Piad @TyronePiad

T

HE Department of Agriculture (DA) has slapped a temporary ban on poultry from Spain and Croatia and pork products from Italy due to the outbreak of animal diseases in the European countries.

In separate memorandum orders (MO) it issued on Wednesday, the DA said wild birds and their products including poultry meat, day old chicks, eggs and semen from Spain and Croatia are not allowed to enter the country in the meantime due to the outbreak of the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1.

The bird flu outbreaks were confirmed by Laboratorio Central de Veterinaria de Algete of Spain and Croatian Veterinary Institute-Poultry Centre of Croatia.

CHICKENS outside a barn at a farm in Pleasureville, Kentucky, United States, on January 8, 2020.

PHOTOGRAPHER: LUKE SHARRETT/BLOOMBERG

“There is a need to prevent the entry of HPAI virus to protect the health of the local poultry

population,” the DA said in the MOs it issued.

The agency warned that wild birds

and poultry products from Croatia will be confiscated.

The DA also announced the temporary ban on the importation of domestic and wild pigs and their products including pork meat, pig skin, processed animal proteins and semen from Italy.

This came after the National Reference Laboratory for Classical and African Swine Fever confirmed that there was an outbreak of African swine fever in Ovada Province of Alessandria, Northern Italy.

The DA also ordered the suspension of processing and issuance of sanitary and phytosanitary import clearance for the said agricultural imports from Italy.

The said commodities from Spain are still allowed to enter the country if they were produced or slaughtered before December 30, 2021. The cut-off production date,

meanwhile, for shipments from Italy is December 23, 2021.

Ban on cattle lifted

MEANWHILE, the DA has announced that it has lifted the temporary ban it imposed on the importation of live cattle, meat and meat products, and bovine processed animal proteins derived from cattle from Canada and Germany.

The DA imposed the ban last year due to the detection of atypical Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) or mad cow disease.

The Philippines asked Canada and Germany to provide documentary requirements from their respective veterinary authorities regarding the “profile of BSE positive animals, disease response measures on these outbreaks and their national BSE surveillance activities.” Ottawa and Berlin imme-

IC: Co-insurance to expand coverage for local planters

By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario

T

HE country’s first public-private co-insurance agreement for the agriculture sector will expand insurance coverage for Filipino farmers, according to the Insurance Commission (IC).

On Wednesday, Insurance Commissioner Dennis Funa said the Philippine Crop Insurance Corp. (PCIC) and CARD Pioneer Microinsurance Inc. (CPMI) co-agreement will help address the protection gap in the agriculture sector.

Funa said efforts of the PCIC, which provided multi-peril crop

insurance for various types of agricultural commodities, were not enough to cover more small farmers in the country.

“Insurance coverage among farmers in the Philippines is still low.

Clearly, there is a need to address the protection gap in the agricultural sector, considering its exposure to severe and frequent disasters,” Funa said. “The IC is confident that this co-insurance agreement will kindle the expansion of agriculture insurance in the country.”

Under the agreement, PCIC and CPMI will share the risks underwritten for each insurance policy with a ratio of 70:30. CPMI will be the lead

insurer and PCIC will be the co-insurer under the arrangement.

Further, CPMI will offer PCIC’s agriculture insurance products to farmers using its network of distribution channels.

In addition, PCIC will provide capacity-building support to CPMI in the areas of underwriting, policy administration, actuarial matters, and claims management.

Meanwhile, CPMI will attempt to increase agricultural insurance penetration by focusing on high-value crops in selected regions where PCIC has limited coverage.

“This collaboration between the PCIC and CPMI will immensely bene-

fit the local agricultural sector, which annually suffers massive losses due to disasters,” Funa said. “This innovative public-private partnership between PCIC and CPMI will greatly contribute to the sustainable development of agricultural insurance in the Philippines.”

It will be recalled that in 2018, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) conducted a roundtable discussion on the interest and potential role of the private sector in agriculture insurance under the Financial Inclusion Strengthening Framework Technical Assistance project.

As a result of the discussions, the IC spearheaded the creation of

a cross-sectoral technical working group that led to CPMI indicating interest to partner with PCIC. In 2020, talks between CPMI and PCIC on the potential co-insurance agreement ensued; and the parties have now finalized the terms and conditions of their agreement.

The IC is expected to regulate the implementation of the co-insurance agreement under following Circular Letter (CL) No. 2021-60 dated October 15, 2021, which provides for “Guidelines on the Adoption of a Regulatory Sandbox Framework for Piloting Agriculture Insurance.”

Notably, ADB aided the IC in the formulation of CL No. 2021-60.

Lunar New Year cakes, cookies are soaring DAR to distribute private agri land to farmers in Bicol as drought hits specialty US wheat

By Jonathan L. Mayuga @jonlmayuga

T

HE Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) is gearing up to distribute 101,377 hectares of agricultural land to landless farmers in the Bicol region in its bid to achieve a zero-backlog target in terms of land distribution balance starting this year.

The 101,377 hectares of agricultural land represents 77.11 percent of the 442,895 hectares of the total “CARP scope” of the region leaving a balance of 101,377 hectares, the second-largest nationwide. Topping the list are Regions 6 and 12.

So far the DAR has distributed a total of 341,518 hectares of agricultural land throughout the Bicol region in the last 49 years, which include land transfer program that dates back in 1972, and the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) which was implemented beginning 1988.

DAR Bicol Regional Director Rodrigo O. Realubit reported that about 150,083 Emancipation Patents (EPS) and Certificates of Landownership Award (CLOAs) were issued to 198,917 Bicolano farmers. He credited the persistent efforts of the DAR to provide security of land tenure to landless farmers despite the difficulties in implementing the CARP. By province, Camarines Sur came on top, with 125,654 hectares awarded to 74,125 agrarian reform beneficiaries. It was followed by Masbate with 70,652 hectares and 34,146 farmerbeneficiaries; Albay with 56,381 hectares and 39,367 farmer-beneficiaries; Camarines Norte with 38,198 hectares and 17,844 farmer-beneficiaries; and Sorsogon with 33,421 and 21,265 farmer-beneficiaries.

Catanduanes has already completed all its distributable agricultural lands of 14,666 hectares with 10,919 farmer-beneficiaries benefiting from its land distribution program.

Realubit said that since the remaining area available for distribution are mostly privately owned and more contentious, the coming years

will continue to be incredibly difficult for the department, adding that more than 47,557 hectares and 17,238 hectares of the total balance are classified as “problematic” and “untitled properties,” respectively, thereby delaying their coverage under CARP. Private lands also include those covered by the operation land transfer program, landed estates, and lands foreclosed by government financing institutions.

He said “these areas are still under protests or litigation and lack documents and can be touched only by DAR upon resolution of the case and or completion of supporting records.”

According to the DAR official, problematic landholdings may raise questions about ownership or the legality of coverage.

Realubit said only 504 hectares of government-owned land remained untouched. Most of it had been distributed in the past decades. They are located in Albay, Camarines Sur, Masbate, and Sorsogon provinces.

He said over the course of 49 years, a total of 351 agrarian reform beneficiary organizations have been organized regionwide to enable farmermembers to continue gaining access to a convergence of support services from various agrarian reform implementing agencies, donor communities, local government units, and nongovernment organizations. These support services include skills and livelihood training programs, access to credit, health, technology transfer, irrigation, multi-purpose buildings, food processing centers with tools and instruments, and farm machinery.

He said DAR, through CARP, financed quite a lot of farm-to-market road and bridge construction projects of the Department of Public Works and Highways; credit programs of the Land Bank of the Philippines; skills training of the Department of Trade and Industry; irrigation projects of the National Irrigation Administration; and agri-production training and livestock distribution of the Department of Agriculture.

STEAMED bread is displayed for sale in Beijing, China PHOTOGRAPHER:NELSON CHING/BLOOMBERG

L

UNAR New Year treats like sponge cakes and pineapple tarts are more costly to make than ever after drought in the United States slashed harvests of a specialty wheat that’s a key ingredient.

American farmers reaped 37 percent less soft white winter wheat this season, mostly due to excessively hot and dry conditions in the Pacific Northwest where the variety is grown. Prices are up more than 50 percent from a year ago.

The shrinking crop comes on top of supply chain issues that have caused hikes for food and other consumer goods, contributing to the worst inflation since 1982.

Soft white wheat is an important ingredient for Lunar New Year celebrations because it’s prized by flour millers in Asia for its low-protein content that’s ideal for cakes. Also, its light color doesn’t alter the appearance of foods like the titular amber waves of the soft red winter wheat variety traded on Chicago’s futures exchange.

In Chicago’s Chinatown neighbor-

hood, expensive flour is among the reasons Chiu Quon Bakery is curtailing production and raising prices.

Meat that goes into buns is also seeing inflation, and other items like red beans, winter melon and durian are scarce, said owner Joyce Chiu. Meanwhile, cold weather and the ongoing pandemic have limited customers, so it may be a quiet holiday.

“We can get everything for the most part, but it’s more expensive,” Chiu said by phone. “We don’t have a lot of wiggle room in the first place as our items are mostly low-cost.”

The US is the top exporter of soft white wheat, shipping about 80 percent of output abroad. Asia is the biggest buyer, with rising wealth in the region boosting demand for the grain. Consumption goes up around Lunar New Year, celebrated in early February this year, as families and confectionery shops bake festive treats from almond cookies to tarts and soft flour cakes.

“It’s not easily replicated with other products,” said Augusto Bassanini,

chief executive officer of United Grain Corp., one of the biggest US wheat shippers. United Grain operates the largest grain-export elevator on the US West Coast in Vancouver, Washington. It’s an “inelastic commodity.”

Soft white winter wheat prices jumped recently to $454 a ton from $298 a year ago, according to Commodity3 data. In China, wholesale flour prices tracked by the commerce ministry are near a record high. Wheat is generally on the rise as tensions between major shippers Russia and Ukraine pushed prices to around the highest levels since 2012.

Benchmark futures in Chicago rose as much as 2 percent Tuesday.

To take advantage of the price hikes, farmers have increased plantings for crops that could be harvested in about six months. Casey Perkins, a grower in northeastern Oregon, sowed about 500 more acres of wheat late last year, after his previous crop fell sharply. Some rainfall and snow has boosted prospects for the nowdormant plants. Bloomberg News

diately complied with the request, the DA said.

The DA said the two countries were able to provide “satisfactory evidence to show that risk of importation of cattle and its related commodities is negligible.”

While the ban has been lifted, the entry of the commodities into the Philippines is still subject to certain conditions.

“Boneless beef except meat from head, industrial, sangria and neck meat can be sourced from cattle of all ages devoid of any nerves and othe BSE-specified risk materials [SRM] shall be imported,” it said.

The boneless beef must be sourced from healthy ambulatory and not downer cattle.

Lastly, the packaging label should bear the slaughter date of the cattle or the production of the beef.

‘Food production agenda to support economic recovery’

T

HE Department of Agriculture (DA) is supporting the country’s economic recovery measures amid the pandemic through its food production agenda, which is aimed at addressing hunger.

“The unprecedented crisis forced us to tackle the goal of food security through a cross-sectoral approach of the Inter-Agency Task Force [IATF] on Zero Hunger,” Agriculture Secretary William Dar said in a statement on Wednesday.

As such, Dar stressed the importance of implementing initiatives that can ensure affordable foodstuff for the public, especially during this crisis.

“On the back of this outlook rides the survival of Filipinos. Hunger, essentially, is an economic question.

And it was poverty that sent many Filipinos into the arms of involuntary hunger.”

The agri chief said the government has put in place measures that will address the bottlenecks in supply chains, including the distribution of livestock and high-yielding rice and corn seeds to farmers.

For the fisheries sector, the DA said it has extended support through the construction of infrastructure like roads, bridges, post-harvest facilities and potable water systems.

“We distributed more equipment, fingerlings, planting materials, post-harvest equipment and new technology—and extended support for livelihood to more than a thousand farmers and fishers under the Special Areas for Agriculture Development Program,” Dar said.

The DA is also working with the Department of Trade and Industry in monitoring the prices of basic commodities.

“All these programs have helped ensure that no Filipino family had to worry about food shortages throughout the pandemic. These have also created employment for many Filipinos,” Dar said.

Last week, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported that the country posted its slowest agriculture production growth in over two decades in 2021 after it contracted by 1.7 percent.

Ateneo Eagle Watch Senior Fellow Leonardo A. Lanzona Jr., in an interview with the BusinessMirror, said that it was “expected in light of the supply side constraints along with the continuing swine flu and the ever present natural calamities.”

Livestock pulled down the agriculture sector last year after declining by 17 percent. Poultry slid by 0.3 percent while crops and fisheries grew by 2.3 percent and 0.1 percent, respectively.

Tyrone Jasper C. Piad

Envoys&Expats BusinessMirror

B4

Thursday, February 3, 2022

www.businessmirror.com.ph

HOLOCAUST REMEMBRANCE DAY

SFA Locsin: Open-Door Policy defining moment for Jews, sense of decency that moved Filipinos

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EMORY, dignity, and justice” served as the theme of this year’s International Holocaust Remembrance Day. The Embassy of the State of Israel and the Department of Education jointly hosted the event through a virtual ceremony and symposium on January 27.

“We…remember and commemorate the Holocaust: the darkest time in human history and of the Jewish people. Six million Jews were murdered—one third of [their] population, only because they were Jewish,” Ambassador Ilan Fluss said in his statement. “This can’t be ignored; we can never let it happen again.”

“The gesture of the Philippines in giving 1,300 Jews refuge…in 1939 is so important,” Fluss emphasized.

“They saved not only those individuals, but also their future families.”

Secretary of Foreign Affairs Teodoro L. Locsin Jr. touched on the Open-Door Policy of the Philippines, which saved lives of some Jews fleeing the Nazi regime: “It is the decent thing of the global community to commemorate the International Holocaust Remembrance Day.” Locsin pointed out, “We all have responsibility to remember the holocaust and the commitment of ‘never again.’ The Open-Door Policy was the sense of decency that moved Filipinos. It was a defining moment for Jews.”

Education Secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones shared her experience when she visited the Yad

SECRETARY Teodoro L. Locsin Jr.: We all have responsibility to remember the holocaust and the commitment of “never again.” EMBASSY OF ISRAEL

QUEZON City Mayor Josefina G. Belmonte (from second from left), Jewish Association of the Philippines Executive Director Lee Blumenthal and Deputy Chief of Mission Nir Balzam at the Friendship Monument EMBASSY OF ISRAEL

Vashem museum in Israel. There, she saw photographs of those who perished. She said, “It is high time that we teach our Filipino children about the holocaust, and the humane act of [former president Manuel L.] Quezon.”

The event’s high point was the lighting of six candles for the 6

dor Anke Reiffenstuel of Germany; as well as the local diplomatic and Jewish communities, among others.

A symposium followed the ceremony, as Dr. David Deutsch led a virtual tour in the Yad Vashem museum as a way to remember the victims.

The embassy held an intimate

million Jews who perished during the holocaust, and survivor Rina Quint’s sharing of her story.

Also in attendance were United Nations Resident Coordinator Gustavo Gonzalez; Education Department undersecretaries Wilfredo Cabral, Tonisito Umali, other officials, personnel and students; Ambassa-

Steadfast friends, equal partners, enduring allies

By Chargé d’Affaires a.i.

Heather Variava Embassy of the United States

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RIENDS help each other. Partners respect each other. Allies stand by each other.

These values have been central to the United States-Philippines relationship for 75 years, and they remain important as ever.

While the world battles another wave of the pandemic, many of us have concerns about the coming year. However, as I reflect on our historic bonds and survey the possibilities, I am hopeful for our shared future.

I witnessed a poetic symbol of this hope in November 2021 when I had the privilege of visiting the majestic Philippine eagles in Davao. When the newest eagle chick hatched a short time later, I shared the joy and hope of millions of Filipinos who celebrated the continued flourishing of this national treasure—thanks to the dedication of conservationists.

Their incredible devotion to protecting eagles reminds us that hope springs from commitment. I am proud of the one that the US and the Philippines continue to manifest mutually as equal, sovereign partners with a shared future.

Road to recovery

WHILE in Davao I also visited a US

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government-supported vaccination site, where I saw firsthand how Covid-19 vaccines from the US are protecting Filipinos. My country has facilitated the donation of more than 65 million vaccine doses to the Philippines through COVAX—including more than 25 million donated by the American people, enough to fully vaccinate more than one in five Filipinos. We have also donated nearly P2 billion in other pandemic-related assistance.

This month I joined a team of nurses and doctors from the US Embassy who trained Department of Health and Philippine Red Cross professionals to use pediatric vaccines to protect the children of the Philippines—training that will be provided virtually to health-care workers across the country. Soon

15 million doses of Pfizer vaccine for children will arrive, raising the total to more than 124 million doses of US-branded vaccines sent to this country.

The US has also stood beside Filipinos after Typhoon Odette, as we support government relief efforts in Surigao del Norte, Dinagat Islands, Southern Leyte, Bohol, Palawan and Cebu. Thanks to years of ongoing cooperation and steady planning, we and our partners provided supplies to affected communities within 24 hours. The US then followed up with more than P1 billion to meet urgent needs like food, water, and shelter; our experts on the ground continue to assess needs so we can walk with the Philippines each step along the road to recovery.

We know true safety from natural disasters needs long-term commitment, especially related to climate change. In October 2021 the US pledged P750 million to help Philippine cities adapt to and mitigate the impacts of climate change. November of that same year, the country set an ambitious goal of reducing carbon emissions by 75 percent before 2030. Over the next year we will work together toward this goal by increasing access to green finance, planning new clean-energy deployment, and bringing US private-sector solutions to aid climate-resilient economic development.

Challenges

OF course, public health and natural disasters are not the only challenges we face together. In November 2021 when Philippine resupply ships were water-cannoned, the US quickly and firmly reiterated our support for our oldest ally in Asia, and affirmed that an “armed attack on Philippine public vessels in the South China Sea/West Philippine Sea would invoke Mutual Defense commitments.”

Philippine sovereignty is not negotiable. In October of last year I had the privilege of turning over four Unmanned Aerial Systems to the Philippine Air Force to strengthen our shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. This year the US will continue to provide stateof-the-art equipment and participate in combined joint exercises to strengthen Philippine defense capabilities.

There is no guarantee that 2022 will be easy. It has already started with great difficulty for many people. However, I am confident in my hopes for the US and the Philippines this year, because I have seen how much we can accomplish together, and I know that our commitment to steadfast friendship, equal partnership, and enduring alliance will give us a safer, stronger, and more secure future.

PHL, Japan boost pandemic-recovery measures thru cold-chain systems

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N January 28 Ambassador Kazuhiko Koshikawa attended the virtual signing of an agreement between the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Department of Health (DOH) for a grant assistance of ¥885 million, as part of the Japanese government’s support to the Philippines’s pandemic-recovery efforts.

Health Secretary Francisco T. Duque III and JICA Philippines Representative Eigo Azukizawa also attended the ceremony as signatories to the agreement.

The almost P400-million grant aid will provide cold-chain transport and equipment throughout the country. It comprises more than 70 refrigerated and servicetruck units, 1,000 vaccine-transport boxes, ice-pack freezers,

thermometers, and other equipment to be deployed nationwide in partnership with the DOH. Koshikawa emphasized that the assistance indicated another signpost in Japan’s pledge to the Philippines’s current fight against the pandemic. Despite the downtrend in cases in Metro Manila and nearby areas, various parts of the country continue to experience surges, primarily due to the Delta and Omicron variants.

Japa n’s Emba ss y sa id t he cold-chain systems for vaccines are “incredibly significant” for guaranteeing vaccines’ safe and efficient delivery to strategic areas across the country while retaining their efficacy. The recent rise of Covid-19 cases in various regions nationwide has made vac-

cines more urgent and imperative to reach all these areas.

As such, Koshikawa underscored that Japan’s grant assistance would play a crucial role in delivering lifesaving vaccines, significantly contributing to both countries’ joint battle against the pandemic.

Furthermore, the ambassador assured that the country “is not alone in its fight against Covid-19,” as he cited the Japanese government’s firm resolve to collaborate with its Philippine counterpart in this endeavor.

He also expressed his appreciation to the entire health work force, noting that the current challenging yet phenomenal time only motivates both nations to aspire for stronger bilateral cooperation: “The fight against the

pandemic continues until it is subdued. No country can surpass this public-health challenge alone, but with Japan by your side to face it together, we will all emerge stronger and better.”

Japan has continuously provided comprehensive support to the Philippines since the pandemic began, including more than 3 million vaccine donations, grant-aid for the procurement of medical equipment and establishment of laboratory surveillance sites, technical assistance for coldchain development, provision of Avigan tablets for Covid-19 treatment, as well as big-ticket yen loan assistance through the Covid-19 Crisis Response Emergency Support Loan and the Post-Disaster Standby Loan Phase 2.

candle-lighting ceremony at the Friendship Monument in Quezon City before the event. Deputy Chief of Mission Nir Balzam, Mayor Josefina G. Belmonte and Jewish Association of the Philippines Executive Director Lee Blumenthal also offered their prayers as a way of remembrance.

EU commits €21-M aid for PHL, SEA recovery

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N January 28 the European Commission announced an allocation of €21 million for disaster preparedness and humanitarian aid in the Philippines, Nepal and other Southeast Asian countries. The funding will support people affected by natural hazards, the pandemic and conflict.

Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarčič said: “Typhoon Rai [local name ‘Odette’] has been a painful reminder that countries in Southeast Asia are experiencing firsthand the dramatic consequences of climate change. This is why the European Union [EU]is further stepping up its humanitarian support to the most vulnerable affected by natural hazards in the Philippines, Nepal and the region. We also support those affected by protracted conflict in the Philippines, while further investing into the preparation and response to the coronavirus pandemic.”

Funding will be provided as follows: n €10 million in humanitarian assistance for families in the Philippines who lost their homes and livelihoods late in December 2021 due to “Rai/ Odette;” n €1.5 million for humanitarian assistance to those affected by the protracted conflict in the Philippines, as well as strengthening support against the coronavirus and other humanitarian operations in the country.

EU humanitarian aid in the Philip-

pines will prioritize the most vulnerable, conflict-affected communities in Mindanao requiring food assistance, protection, emergency livelihood, health, water, sanitation, nutrition services and emergency shelters; n €9.5 million will target disaster-preparedness and contingencyresponse plans in the said countries and region.

Beyond recurring natural hazards in the Philippines, some Filipinos are also disturbed by current conflicts between the government and armed groups in the south. The precarious situation in the country often results in significant loss of lives, livelihoods and homes.

The EU continuously supports initiatives that reduce the risks of natural hazards and hike the disasterpreparedness capacities of vulnerable populations, having allocated more than €116 million in humanitarian aid since 2001.

Countries in Southeast Asia are frequently affected by natural hazards such as floods, droughts and typhoons. Other than the Philippines, the EU funds projects focusing on enhancing community resilience and disaster-preparedness capacities in countries such as, Vietnam, Cambodia and Lao PDR. For its part, the European Commission has provided over €153.5 million in humanitarian funding to the Philippines since 1996.

Qatar supports local pandemic response with Sinovac vaccines

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N behalf of the State of Qatar, the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) recently provided financial support to the Philippines to purchase 50,000 doses of Sinovac vaccines at the cost of $450,000 (P23 million), as part of the former’s response to provide wider access to anticoronavirus jabs.

This grant is an extension of Qatar’s commitment to stand with its “brotherly and friendly countries affected by the pandemic by providing appropriate medical supplies to cope with the repercussions of Covid-19, and to provide health support to the people of affected countries,” according to the Middle East country’s embassy.

Dr. Ali bin Ibrahim Al-Malki, ambassador of Qatar, said the support comes within the framework of humanitarian action, and the Qataris giving extended

relief to friends in the Philippines. It also comes as their commitment to alleviate the suffering of those affected by the health crisis, and strengthen international efforts in the field of emergency aid.

Khalifa bin Jassim Al-Kuwari, QFFD director-general said “this support is an affirmation of Qatar’s active role and efforts in contending [with the Covid-19 pandemic, which represents a common threat to the whole world… It’s a matter of shared global responsibility, our compatriots’ position in support of friendly and fraternal countries, and an assistance to overcome this crisis.]”

The embassy said QFFD’s efforts continue to support countries around the world with emergency response aid to defeat Covid-19, while enabling access to safe and effective vaccines and medical aid. With a report from Joyce Ann

Parentlife BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Editor: Gerard S. Ramos

• Thursday, February 3, 2022

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A springboard to this Tiger Year Clockwise: Patrick Rey Lim Fernandez, principal feng shui master of the Yin and Yang Shop of Harmony; some feng shui lucky items: Long Yue for promotions, progress and creativity, Double Double Money Catcher for wealth luck, and Pom Chums for growth of successful business or romantic partnerships.

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E celebrated Chinese New Year on February 1. We had two dinner celebrations because our flight got moved that weekend.

It made me also remember how I used to spend the eve of Chinese New Year at the Yin and Yang Shop of Harmony’s luck festivals before the pandemic.

Through the years of knowing them, it made me see feng ahui beyond fanatics. It made me understand the science of it, maybe because their principal Feng Shui Master Patrick Rey Lim Fernandez holds degrees in Management Engineering and Economics (Honors) from the Ateneo de Manila University and an MBA from the University of California, Los Angeles, with advanced analytics courses from MIT and Stanford.

Fernandez was trained in Asia and North America in the classical schools of feng shui and Chinese metaphysics such as Hsuan K’ung, Eight Mansion and Bazi, and was also under the tutelage of the highly respected Princess Lim Fernandez.

It was Princess Lim Fernandez’ wisdom and heart of benevolence that always reminded me of the ultimate importance of being a good-hearted person, to allow a good flow to permeate one’s life. Their genuine intention to help a person, family or business is seen in their meticulous work and care. Below are some of Yin and Yang’s thoughts for the Tiger Year: “As the Year of the Ox [concludes], we look forward to the Year of the Thundering Water Tiger 2022. As the world continues to cope and manage through this global pandemic, there is a light on the horizon. This is because the past three years were the Winter years in the 12-year cycle of the Chinese Zodiac. The years of the Pig, Rat and Ox [2019 through 2021] belong to this most frigid of seasons.

It is no wonder that the world had been in a mode of hibernation as is customary during Winter time.

The coming year of the Tiger signifies the beginning of Spring which will last for the next three years. As the world gets ready to re-emerge from a period of docility and lethargy, the Tiger symbolizes a form of rebirth and reinvigoration.

“Additionally, the Tiger also brings with it a Yang energy which is characterized by being strong and aggressive. There will be a lot more re-mobilization in the world as it awakens from a mode of slumber which will in turn spark a lot of activity

in many life aspects: in business/careers, relationships, health and money luck.

“The Stem energy of the year belongs to that of Yang Water. This energy is akin to one emanated by the mighty ocean. As Yang Water is the most cerebral of the Stems, the key characteristic of the year is that of intelligence and innovation. Thus, the key will be not working harder, but working smarter. If there is one thing the pandemic has taught a lot of people, it is finding creative and innovative ways to manage through the ‘new normal.’ Continuing to use one’s intelligence and smarts will be crucial this year. Moreover, there is an Academic Star this year, meaning that apart from using one’s existing knowledge, it also behooves one to acquire new skills and expertise and expand one’s intellectual horizon.

“However, one must guard against being narrowminded and not listening to others’ perspectives. Try to gather as many facts and points of view as you can

and from that, form your opinions and conclusions.

“The branch of the year belongs to the Tiger, which is a Wood energy. The aforementioned Water and Wood energies complement each other, so it will be a generally harmonious year. Additionally, the Tiger brings with it a sense of adventure and audacity. Given that, try to push the envelope and be bold in your decisions this year. As the season brings rebirth, use this energy to reenergize the different aspects of your life. Just caution yourself from being impulsive and acting without thought or regard for the consequences.

Be thoughtful in your actions and let conscientiousness guide you throughout the year.

“There is a Travel Star that is present for the year, as the Tiger belongs to the group of zodiac signs related to travel. Thus, you may find yourself or your work virtually or physically travelling. On the work side, this may mean your work

products or services going to new geographies and markets. Take advantage of this by seeking out new opportunities to expand your horizons, both personally and professionally.

“Lastly, there are also a few stars that relate adversely to health. Therefore, the health and safety of you and your loved ones should be a high priority this year. This includes your emotional health as well. Take the preventive steps necessary by focusing on the right diet, exercise, sleep and stress management.”

As each person has a unique luck chart tied to one’s birth circumstances, it is recommend to get a personalized reading to come up with a more tailored and specific plan and path for this year given one’s energy signature based on their element and Chinese zodiac.

More information can be had via yinandyangshopofharmony@yahoo.com or 632-77525882.

Why cleaning up is good for your health IF you have been avoiding the chore of thoroughly cleaning up all year long, you are not alone. “Everybody has their reasons for putting off the task of clearing drawers, closets, and entire rooms of junk,” says Caroline C. Aquino, MD, from the Department of Pediatrics, Allergology and Immunology Section of Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed, www.makatimed.net.ph). “It’s exhausting, it takes so much time, and it never ends.”

“Yes, cleaning and decluttering have advantages too—and I’m not just referring to the extra space that you get from throwing things out,” Dr. Aquino explains. “In fact, it’s even good for your health.”

Here are five ways that make it so: n You’ll breathe better. What is it about cleaning out long-forgotten spaces that makes the air seem fresher? “Purging your cabinets and closets of stuff you have not seen, or that hasn’t moved from its place in years means getting rid of all the dust, pet dander, molds, mildew, and all possible allergens which accumulated in there,” she points out. “To avoid an allergy attack [itchy runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing, coughing], wear a face

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Inventive and transformative Very Peri inspired accent chair v Very Peri Akemi Linen w Purple nonstick aluminum pans and pots x Have a Re-Wax-ation with this soothing lavender Kings Wax Soy Candle in Lavender

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storage box also prevents more spots for dust mites, cockroaches, and other pests to hide,” she continues. You should also seal off any areas where cockroaches can enter the home, and repair or change leaking fixtures and roofing to reduce moisture. n You’ll get a good workout. Bored with your 10,000-steps-a-day routine? “Decluttering is definitely a full-body workout,” says Maria Patricia Abes, MD, also a consultant from the Department of Pediatrics, Allergology and Immunology Section. “It uses muscles in the shoulders, arms, chest, abdomen, and legs to lift and move things around. Just make sure to bend from the knees—not your back—when you attempt to lift a heavy object from the ground.” n You’ll sleep soundly. Anybody who has hit the gym or finished a 10K knows what comes after that exercise high—sleep! “Same goes with cleaning up.

The effort you put into clearing out closets, segregating items to keep and give away, and scrubbing down dirt and stains is physically exhausting. An afternoon nap or good night’s sleep usually follows.” The sight of a spacious and clutter-free bedroom at the end of a productive day is enough to make you relax and rest easy.

mask when you dust, scrub, and vacuum.”

When doing this, Dr. Aquino advises to clean from high to low, meaning start cleaning the highest spots like the top shelves or ceiling corners, and work your way down so you will be able to catch the dust as it settles on lower shelves and the floor. Another thing to remember is that clothes and other seldom used items can collect dust.

“Reducing clutter by putting them away in a

n You’ll improve your mood. And it isn’t just from the endorphins that resulted from hours of decluttering. “The act of cleaning has a therapeutic effect,” avers Dr. Abes. “Throwing out expired products and documents that are no longer relevant, and choosing to donate or sell items that you once refused to let go of can be liberating. Plus, seeing the clean and spacious area that you freed up after ridding it of things just waiting to be discarded or given away leaves you with a feeling of accomplishment.” n You’ll have a safe home. Did you know that fires and falls are two of the most common accidents at home—and that clutter may be the cause of both? “Flammable materials like piles of old newspapers can make fires spread faster. Family members might also have trouble navigating their way around clutter and trip. One misstep and a senior could break a hip,” says Dr. Abes. “In addition, regular cleaning is really a must for people with allergies since frequent dust exposure can worsen these. Make your health and family’s safety your motivations to finally face what you have been dodging for years and clean up.”

A VERY PERI MIX

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BRING Very Peri’s spirit of newness, carefree confidence and creativity to your home with furniture and home accessories from SM Home (www.thesmstore.com).

Very Peri was selected by global color authority Pantone as its Color of the Year 2022, describing it as “the happiest and warmest of all blue hues, a dynamic periwinkle blue with a vivifying violet red undertone [blending] the faithfulness and consistency of blue with the energy and excitement of red.”

This is the first time in 23 years that Pantone has created a new shade for its Color of the Year selection, as “we have a new vision of the world now,” Pantone Institute Executive Director Leatrice Eisenman told CNN. In architecture, shades of periwinkle blue and lavender have long been used in installations, commercial spaces, and lighting, bringing an overall calm, optimistic, and positive effect.

And you can bring that to your home with SM Home’s accent chairs, decorative candles and vases, bed linen, and kitchen ware in Very Peri shades. The SM Store offers Call to Deliver services at #14376.

B6 Thursday, February 3, 2022

Roar in the fortune at Hotel Lucky Chinatown

Ookla: PLDT is the Philippines’ fastest internet provider in 2021 Setting the Bar for PH Internet Speeds

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LDT Home remains undisputed as the fastest broadband network in the Philippines, dominating telco rivals with a Speed Score™ of 77.24 at the Ookla® Speedtest Awards™ for Q3-Q4 2021.

The latest result showed a big jump from PLDT’s Speed Score of 27.28 in the second half of the previous year. Speed Score is a measure that takes into account both upload and download speeds.

Latest data from the global benchmarking company also showed PLDT besting all other internet service providers (ISPs) in the country with top upload and download speeds of 217.07 Mbps and 203.97 Mbps, respectively.

In determining the network speed of ISPs, Ookla compared data gathered from millions of consumer-initiated tests taken on Speedtest® platforms. The data include tests done by Filipino internet users on various networks using digital devices connected via Wi-Fi and fixed networks.

“Fast internet is no longer a luxury because it’s what Filipinos depend on to earn, work, and study from home. We’ve been relentless in continuously building and upgrading our network so that our customers enjoy better and future-ready homes,” says Butch G. Jimenez, Jr.,

Senior Vice President and Head of PLDT Home Business.

Fastest Broadband in PH’s Key Cities

BASED on the latest Ookla data, PLDT registered the highest upload and download speeds in key major cities in the Philippines–Manila, Cebu and Davao Cities.

In Manila, PLDT bested major ISPs including Converge, Globe, and Sky – with upload and download speeds of 54.52 Mbps and 58.57 Mbps, respectively.

In Cebu, PLDT recorded 76.14 Mbps and 74.22 Mbps upload and download speeds, respectively. In Davao, PLDT is the fastest fixed network over ISPs Globe and Sky, with upload and download speeds of 70.06 Mbps and 71.50 Mbps, respectively.

When analyzing the fastest ISPs, Ookla assesses the fastest network speeds attained across a given network, accounting for tests that are taken on various Speedtest applications that connect to a fixed network, including tests taken on mobile phones over a Wi-Fi connection. Each top carrier accounts for at least 3 percent of the sample size in the geographic area.

PLDT consistently dominates the Ookla Speedtest Awards in the past four years as a result of the telco giant’s aggressive network expansion initiatives. In the second half of 2021, PLDT Home launched its biggest speed upgrade for customers with thrice as much speeds versus the previous broadband plans.

In November 2021, PLDT Home launched the country’s first-ever 10,000 Mbps fiber-optic service in the Philippines, putting the country alongside first-world nations that have access to such ultra-fast home interne speeds such as South Korea, Japan, Sweden, Norway, Italy, New Zealand, and USA. “The demand for the fastest broadband in the Philippines remains strong and we’re investing as well in our capabilities to install, upgrade, and repair throughout the year,” concludes Butch G. Jimenez, Jr., Senior Vice President and Head of PLDT Home Business.

PLDT Home continues to set the bar for the future of home internet connectivity in the Philippines as it provides access to future-ready innovations including topof-the-line Smart Home solutions such as Wifi Mesh devices, Entertainment and Security services bundled with its flexible broadband plans. All these innovations are powered by the PLDT’s widest network in the country with its fiber infrastructure expanded to 743,700 kilometers, extending its reach to 13.9 million homes passed, and with over 5.77 million fiber-powered ports.

To date, PLDT Home has connected over 3.6 Million subscribers, proving to be the most trusted telco of Filipino families for fast internet speeds for work at home, online school, and family entertainment at home amid the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic in the country. More information on PLDT Home, visit www.pldthome.com.

Home as a haven: The lifestyle that is suited for the ‘next normal’

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HE pandemic situation has highlighted the importance of enjoying quality living at home.

More than simply being a shelter to return to at the end of a workday, home has become a sanctuary where one can spend time working in comfort or enjoying their favorite leisure activities.

As Filipinos adapt to the changes brought about by the pandemic such as remote work and online learning, the housing market has experienced a renewed interest in properties that can deliver the lifestyle that is suited for the ‘next normal’, where connectivity, accessibility, and well-planned spaces are placed at a higher priority.

In a study released in the 2nd Quarter of 2021, Colliers International Philippines noted that the share of upscale-to-luxury developments in new project launches has been on an upward trend since 2019. The segment accounted for 41 percent of new launches in 2020, up from 25 percent between 2015 and 2019. Buyers in the upscale market are looking for safe and high-quality homes for their families.

Redesigning Modern Living

PHILIPPINE Realty and Holdings Corporation (PhilRealty), which has 40 years of trusted industry experience, remains committed to building not just developments but communities that enable residents to experience elevated urban living in a safe and comfortable environment. Its success is anchored on its landmark developments that have brought vertical living to greater heights.

In the late 1980s, the company was one of the first developers to combine the concept of horizontal subdivisions

and vertical living in the Philippines through its flagship luxury mid-rise project, The Alexandra in the Ortigas Business District. It was one of the country’s first vertical gated communities that continue to be a coveted address in the district today. Through this project, PhilRealty pioneered the “home replacement” concept that allows homeowners an “uncompromised living” in a vertical community.

Its succeeding development, La Isla Condominium, became the epitome of high-end living with 28 luxuriouslyappointed apartments at spacious 270 sqm to 580 sqm cuts, each offering breathtaking views of the city.

Building on the success of these residential projects, PhilRealty has developed Skyline Premiere and The SkyVillas in the One Balete Compound in Quezon City as a prestigious address for homeowners who appreciate luxe living in the comforts of home.

Home as a haven

THESE developments offer tranquility with the laidback charm of the New Manila area and features large cuts, bilevel apartments, kitchens with a service

entrance, maids’ quarters with toilet and bath, and utility areas with open-air ventilation. Units are fitted with top-ofthe-line brands such as Canadian Kitchen cabinetry, SMEG kitchen appliances, and Kohler or Grohe bathroom fixtures.

The PhilRealty concept of ‘home replacement’ focuses on family living, with units that are designed to ensure that everyone can have their personal space for work, study or other recreational activities.

It incorporates spacious living in intimate communities that provide privacy and exclusivity in a modern urban setting. For those who want to experience an outdoor respite, the property has a landscaped garden that offers the rejuvenating feeling of being in wide open spaces. The clubhouse has a swimming pool, fitness center, and a children’s playground to help build that spirit of community.

As the company looks forward to more projects ahead, it remains committed to building quality developments that enable residents to achieve uncompromised living in communities where generations can live and thrive. Having spacious and flexible residential units means that personal space, comfort, and security are guaranteed. Visit www.philrealty.com.ph

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OTEL Lucky Chinatown celebrates the auspicious Year of the Water Tiger with abundant offerings for the Lunar New Year. Prosper good fortune with handcrafted epicurean treats with the ready-to-eat signature Baked Tikoy for P 288 per tub and revel in the growling goodness with the newest lavish creation of the Golden Tiger Buns.

Soft and moist charcoal dough filled generously with salted egg custard and brushed with regal golden stripe for only P 188 (box of 2).

A property of homegrown brand of Megaworld Hotels and Resorts, Hotel Lucky Chinatown embraces the rich cultural heritage of Manila's Binondo district with its modern contemporary ambiance and interiors, and and features 93 well-appointed rooms, modern event spaces and diverse dining outlets.

For details, visit hotelluckychinatown. com, call (02) 5318-8188 or 0917-8056062 or follow its social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram.

Achieve holistic health this 2022 with healthy lifestyle and proper weight management

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VERINDULGENCE in food and drinks and lack of exercise during the holidays can increase the risks of obesity, which is fast becoming a major health problem in the country. The Philippines currently has a moderate risk score in the national obesity risk scoring by the World Obesity Federation (WOF).

A WOF report released in March 2021 also showed that adult obesity rates in the country experienced very rapid growth from 1995 to 2015 at 5.4 percent for men and 3.7 percent for women.

One good way to kick off 2022 and protect oneself from health concerns such as obesity is to maintain – or start – a healthy lifestyle and observe proper weight management. OMRON Healthcare, a global leader in the field of clinically proven, innovative medical equipment, is launching a new line of body composition monitors and digital weight scale devices to help Filipinos keep track of their overall weight and health.

Body weight is not the only yardstick for a healthy body. Body mass index, body fat percentage and muscle mass percentage are also equally important to ensure one is healthy and fit.

Omron’s New Body Composition Monitors HBF-255T and HBF-702T and Digital Weight Scale HN-300T2 make it easier than ever to keep track of these

numbers for a healthier lifestyle. These new devices are designed to complement diets and exercise regimens, providing a range of indicators such as resting metabolism, body fat percentage, visceral fat level and body age for more effective weight management.

The HBF-702T and HBF-255T are smartsensing devices designed to provide a more comprehensive view of the user’s health.

The HBF-702T features Full Body Sensing Technology to provide better understanding of the user’s body composition using an auto-recognition feature. Users can get accurate and reliable measurements within 11 seconds of stepping on the device. The HBF-255T can help anyone stay inspired to get in shape. Its Previous Value Display feature aids with weight progress tracking and Weight Subtraction Function, which also makes weighing of babies and children more convenient.

Omron’s Digital Weight Scale HN300T2 keeps track of the user’s weight and also monitors BMI trends and progress in relation to the user’s weight goal. It has a lightweight tempered glass for safety, four sensor accuracy technology and auto on/ off. The auto filtering function allows the user to extract and display only a specific weight value from the data transferred by the scale through the Omron Connect App. The HBF-702T, HBF-255T and the HN-300T2 are ideal for those with specific weight loss goals and those who are looking to take control of their health.

All three devices can conveniently be accessed through the Omron Connect app, where users can note their personal health history and view progress from their latest activities.

The new monitors and weight devices will be available on Omron's official flagship Lazada and Shopee stores starting February 2022. For more information, visit https://www.omronhealthcare-ap.com/ph.

Converge capped off 2021 with improved consistency scores across five regions in PH

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OKLA®, the global leader in internet testing and analysis, recently verified Converge ICT Solutions Inc. as the most consistent fixed internet provider in 5 regions for the last quarter of 2021, namely Metro Manila, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Ilocos Region, and Cagayan Valley with consistency scores of 82.6, 81.45, 82.99, 80.36, and 85.59 respectively.

Converge’s Q4 2021 score also showed improvement from the same year’s Q1 score of 72.75 to 82.2 percent consistency score, measuring the percentage of a provider’s samples that equals or exceeds a fixed threshold of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload.

Likewise, with the thousands of consumerinitiated tests taken with Speedtest®, Converge results showed a median latency rate of 4ms and a jitter rate of 2ms for the last quarter of 2021. The former measures how quickly a device gets a response after a user sends out a request, while the latter measures the delay between when a signal is transmitted and when it’s received.

The mentioned metrics reflected the overall quality of a connection beyond raw speed, validating significant investments on Converge’s high speed network as well as the quality of the connections all over the network.

“The goal of all our roll out of initiatives in 2021 was to bring a better experience to Filipinos in underserved and unserved areas - and increasing our consistency every quarter in 2021 is a testament to our dedication to our subscribers,” said Converge COO, Jesus C. Romero.

“Converge stays committed to serving its customers especially during the height of the pandemic. We are ready to face 2022 with improved services to connect our kababayans across all islands,” he added.

With the new normal lifestyle that’s here to stay, Converge is looking forward to ease the Filipinos' online experience and navigate through day-to-day tasks digitally with its seamless, fast, and reliable pure fiber technology in 2022. #ExperienceBetter with the fastestgrowing fiber internet provider, Converge ICT Solutions Inc. Visit convergeict.com for more details.

Editor: Anne Ruth Dela Cruz

Health&Fitness BusinessMirror

Thursday, February 3, 2022

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Study says majority of Pinoys self-medicate, self-diagnose

By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco

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he World Health Organization (WHO) defines self-medication as the use of drugs “to treat selfdiagnosed disorders or symptoms, or the intermittent or continued use of a prescribed drug for chronic or recurrent diseases or symptoms.”

Scientists and medical professionals, however, do not approve of the practice as it can cause greater health risks among those who self-medicate.

Without proper medical guidance, those who self-medicate may use improper medicines to treat their illness. Experts also

warn of missed diagnosis, inappropriate treatment, or delay in proper treatment that may cause resistance to antibiotics and increased morbidity.

The latest PhilCare Wellness Index 2021 reveals that self-medication remains prevalent among Filipinos.

Only 7.4 percent of the study’s 1,500 respondents claimed that they do not self-medicate.

Worrying findings

This finding should be worrying for industries and companies as it is for health workers. The majority (96.1 percent) of the study’s respondents are employees who mostly (64.5 percent) work for private firms.

The growth and sustainability of businesses rely heavily on the wellness and productivity of workers.

As such, employers and human resource managers invest in health and wellness programs for their employees.

However, industries and companies should also consider the insight from the PhilCare Wellness Index that having access to health services is not an assurance that their employees would address their health concerns in the proper manner.

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Many Filipinos still rely on advertisements, previous medical prescriptions, and the opinions

of their relatives, families, and friends as basis for their selfdiagnosis and self-medication.

Open access to health information over the internet also adds to the confidence of Filipinos to self-medicate as supported by the findings of the latest PhilCare Wellness Index.

During the pandemic, the health sector promoted the use of communication technologies to bridge gaps in health access through telemedicine.

Despite access to online or over the phone consultations, respondents “somewhat agreed” that they prefer to consult a pharmacist in the drugstore because they are “afraid of what the medical professional would discover dur-

ing consultation.”

The majority of Filipinos would rather do online research than online consultation.

From improving access to health care, the findings of the PhilCare Wellness Index indicate that prevalent cultures and beliefs surrounding health care that should also be addressed not only by the health sector, but other affected sectors in general. Companies’ investment in their workers’ health and wellness would not be maximized if their employees would still subscribe to improper health practices such as self medication.

Waste of resources

Self-medication is a waste of resources not only for individuals,

but also for sectors that invest in the health care of their members.

PhilCare works with companies to improve their employees’ access to health services and to promote a culture of proper health care by providing correct and truthful health and wellness information for employees. In this information age, PhilCare believes that having proper health information is crucial in advancing proper healthcare.

The PhilCare Wellness Index is a pioneering study that seeks to determine the attitude, behaviors, and practices of Filipinos regarding their health and wellness. It was launched in 2014 and has been conducted three more times, once every year since 2019.

Collaboration urged to push eye care amid pandemic Keeping ERs fully operational

By Roderick L. Abad Contributor

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HE ongoing Covid-19 pandemic has shown how a weak or unreliable health-care network can create vulnerabilities not only in an entire community but also in eye health.

This is evident in the Philippines, where eye care seems is not given enough attention as the country continues to grapple with the ensuing health crisis, according to Dr. Maria Victoria Rondaris, country manager for the Philippines at the Fred Hollows Foundation (FHF).

“The Covid pandemic has exposed and even magnified the weakness in our national health system. We all know that eye health is not a priority in the national government, as is in other parts of the world,” she said during a virtual forum, titled “How can 2030 In Sight support eye health beyond Covid?,” organized by the International Agency for Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) in collaboration with Novartis.

Given the current situation, the top executive emphasized that government funds were rechanneled to pandemic response, thus leading to a further drop in eye health resources, whether financial support or eye health human reserves.

“Around 6 million people in the Philippines are waiting for long term action from the government so that they would not be needlessly blind but become productive citizens in nation-building,” Rondaris noted.

To address their concern, collective efforts are highly needed.

Citing local and international ex-

periences incorporating eye health into the wider healthcare systems, she said that it means working with governments and like-minded stakeholders to provide support and sustainability.

Engaging policymakers

TO ensure better funding for eye health as low resourced countries like the Philippines try to recover from the pandemic, it’s important to engage the policy makers. This is possible with having stronger health data systems.

“Through evidence-based data, we can appropriate investments to develop our work force, equipping our health systems with both reserve capacity and agility. And with the UHC [Universal Health Care] in place, we can develop a strong primary health care and work force that will maintain care continuity and care coordination,” she explained.

While there is access to telemedicine, the FHF manager said that more can be done to leverage and standardize national electronic health records to extract data for real-time disease surveillance, for research and health system management, and build an enabling environment.

“Planning and strategic decisionmaking and implementation will be so much empowered when we have our own data for the country,” Rondaris stressed.

Driving change

IT cannot be denied that government resources are now exhausted since most of the efforts have been directed to the containment of the coronavirus nationwide. To help bal-

ance the equilibrium between the pandemic response and other health concerns like eye care, creativity in the rollout of various projects, particularly from international organizations, is required.

“Our ultimate aim is for our services to be inclusive, equitable and affordable,” said Dr. Noel Chua, chairman of the National Committee For Sight Prevention. “We must be innovative and dynamic in implementing programs by WHO [World Health Organization] and the United Nations Resolutions On Sight For All.” Taking advantage of the high Internet use in the country, he cited a communication and advocacy plan developed in partnership with Novartis which utilized social media as the most effective medium during the pandemic in raising awareness on the different eye conditions, healthy eye promotions, and eye health needs.

He added that it empowered the patients to be more proactive and responsible for their eye care, thus resulting in an increased demand for eye care services.

“This awareness campaign needs to be expanded and fully operationalized to further activate demand with the bias on the marginalized.

This can only succeed in collaboration and partnership with government, with the media industry, NGOs [nongovernment organizations] and eye care stakeholders,” Chua said.

Seeing that the demand from the general consumer market varies, he suggested the need to also use technology like the mobile phone. He

reminded, though, that “this must be holistic and can only be achieved again by working in partnership with all the eye stakeholders.”

Rising from health crisis

FOR the Philippines to rise from the Covid-19 pandemic, the Department of Health (DOH) will continue to improve access to health interventions through its valued and functional health care provider network that fits the current situation and strengthen the financial freedom when accessing these interventions through the UHC Act. The DOH, through the Prevention of Blindness Program (PBP), will further beef up the established collaboration and partnership with the stakeholders in all levels of government, as well as all sectors and civil society, including the academe, specialty societies, NGOs and local government units that contribute to the quality eye care. “[The year] 2030 may be far ahead.

But a simple step to achieving success begins now. So let’s all commit to working together to reduce blindness and visual impairment,” said PBP Lead Dr. Allan Nacino.

The health agency assured that it would take note of the inputs of its allies and continue to partner with them in achieving a common goal, which is “quality eye care for everyone.”

“Together, we can achieve our mission of a world where nobody is needlessly visually impaired, every individual can achieve their full potential, and comprehensive eye care services are accessible to everyone,” Nacino stressed.

100 world landmarks light up to call for end to neglected tropical diseases

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ne hundred landmarks in 34 countries lit up in unity to mark the third annual World NTD (neglected tropical diseases) Day on January 30, 2022, including The Bell Tower in Perth, Tokyo Tower, Great Wall of China, Kuala Lumpur Tower, Sheikh Zayed Bridge in Abu Dhabi, Expo 2020 Dubai, The Rome Colosseum, Jet d’ Eau, Niagara Falls, CN Tower, Carter Presidential Library, Christ the Redeemer, and the SM Mall of Asia Globe in Manila.

A special focus was placed on notable landmarks in endemic countries including Bangladesh, Brazil, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Ghana, India, Kenya, Liberia, Niger, Nigeria, Philippines, Rwanda, South Sudan, Sudan, and Togo. There are also several monuments, universities, and notable buildings lighting up in Abu Dhabi, where World NTD Day was originally announced in 2019. The 100 “light ups” aim to shine a light on NTDs, as World NTD Day supports the goal of the World Health Organization (WHO) to eliminate at least one NTD from 100 endemic countries by 2030.

World NTD Day is a global movement that aims to galvanize the global health community and engage the public in the urgent effort to end NTDs. This year Uniting to Combat NTDs used World NTD Day to launch the 100% Committed movement,

which exists to begin securing political and financial commitments in support of the Kigali Declaration on NTDs. The Kigali Declaration, a high-level political declaration, provides the opportunity to mobilise the political will, community commitment, resources and action needed to end unnecessary suffering from NTDs. Thoko Pooley, executive director of Uniting to Combat NTDs, said: “Today, building on the success of the London Declaration on NTDs, and recognizing the changing global landscape, we are using World NTD Day 2022 as a catalyst for action. We are launching the 100% Committed campaign, a global movement to secure increased resources for neglected tropical diseases, and crucially to facilitate political leadership and ownership of NTD programmes from affected countries, through endorsements and signatories behind the new Kigali Declaration on NTDs.”

UAE effort

World NTD Day was officially recognized by the WHO in May 2021.

The United Arab Emirates helmed diplomatic efforts to obtain official recognition of the day, and several WHO Member States were instrumental in building consensus to support it. The decision, proposed by the UAE alongside Oman and Brazil, was adopted unanimously.

The Crown Prince Court of Abu

Dhabi continues to play a leading role in building partnerships and supporting World NTD Day through the Reaching the Last Mile Initiative (RLM), a portfolio of global health programs focused on accelerating progress towards disease elimination that are driven by the personal commitment of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi.

Nassar Al Mubarak, Senior Director at the Crown Prince Court of Abu Dhabi, said: “World NTD Day represents an important catalyst to translate awareness into action—it is not only crucial for the public to know more about these diseases, but also for donors, endemic countries and other stakeholders to collaborate to bring an end to NTDs in affected countries. Over the past few decades, incredible progress has been made towards ending NTDs; however, one in five people in the most vulnerable communities around the world are still affected by these preventable and treatable diseases.”

He added: “We are pleased to see World NTD Day providing a platform for raising awareness through the new 100% Committed campaign led by Uniting to Combat NTDs and efforts such as the light-up activation. We hope that this movement continues to gain traction and spark new partnerships and commitments necessary to beat NTDs for good and for all.”

NTDs are a group of communicable diseases that are preventable and treatable yet continue to affect more than 1.7 billion people worldwide, including 1 billion children. There are currently 20 diseases and disease groups defined as NTDs including river blindness (onchocerciasis), leprosy, elephantiasis (lymphatic filariasis), Guinea worm disease, rabies and intestinal worms (soiltransmitted helminths). NTDs cause immeasurable suffering—they debilitate, disfigure and can be fatal.

By most commonly affecting some of the most vulnerable people in the world—who often live in remote communities—NTDs create cycles of poverty and cost developing nations billions of dollars every year.

The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic is threatening hard-fought progress on NTDs. Covid-19 has affected essential health-care services across the world, with NTD programs having been particularly badly disrupted. A recent WHO survey indicates that NTD programs have been among the health services most frequently affected by the pandemic.

As of early 2021, disruptions had occurred in 44 percent of countries; in 19 percent of countries NTD programs were the most severely disrupted health service. Investments in strong public health systems are critical to both efforts to end NTDs and building resilience to respond to future pandemics.

is key to fighting a pandemic

By Rory Visco Contributor

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f there’s any area in any hospital that will run 24/7 and should not stop operating for any reason, it must be the Emergency Room.

Even before the pandemic, the “ER,” now called the Emergency Department or “ED,” always hums in full gear. And when the pandemic hit, followed by several other surges, the ED was seen as the most overworked yet underappreciated and worst, maligned to great lengths. Many of the ED staff, these brave “frontline workers,” underwent physical, emotional, and psychological distress. Many even gave up their lives as part of their selfless contribution in the fight against Covid-19.

During the surges, even the latest due to the Omicron variant, doctors, nurses, other frontline workers and even their family members got sick.

Some hospitals were forced to close down entire wards, but certainly not the ED. This unit must keep both Covid and non-Covid patients alive and safe, and continue to serve and address the emergency medical needs of the public in the most effective, efficient and high-quality manner despite the adversities.

The PGH experience

At the recent TV UP Fight Against Covid-19 webinar entitlted “How do we prevent our Emergency Rooms from shutting down?,” Dr. April Llaneta, immediate past chair of the Department of Emergency Medicine Services of the UP-Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH), talked about the experience of the PGH Emergency Department.

She said the pandemic forced hospitals and EDs globally to adapt and innovate to be able to provide emergency care despite the many challenges like how to protect staff and patients, manage Covid and non-Covid patients, and coordinating with the rest of the hospital services and the communities.

She emphasized the importance of an Emergency Management System. “For the PGH’s ED, we made use of the Hospital Incident Command System, in coordination with the hospital ’s crisis management committee.” The center has a public information officer, a Liaison officer, and a Safety officer, plus Operations, Planning, Logistics and Finance departments.

Staff protection is managed by the Engineering, Administrative units, while Staff Well-being was where programs were developed to address the emotional, mental and physical wellbeing of the staff. In terms of patient flow, the management of Covid cases was included, where the ED used a simple Triage system where patients were categorized under Emergent, Critical and Non-urgent classifications.

Dr. Llaneta also thanked the Bayanihan Operations Center of UP-Manila and TeleGabay of UP-PGH. “These programs helped the ED to provide a well-coordinated response by the ED,” she said.

East Avenue Medical Center continues to deliver

As for the East Avenue Medical Center (EAMC), Dr. Maria Victoria Datin-

guinoo, chair of the Department of Emergency Medicine from the EAMC, it established the Center for Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Disease (CERID) in August 2020 that caters to severe and critical cases of Covid-19.

The hospital took action on several fronts, particularly on adherence to minimum public health standards, limited consultation and admission of patients with various cases in the ED from January 7 to 15, 2022. “We were able to pool manpower staff from other departments so the ED remained operational,” she said.

EAMC also continued its vaccination program for health-care workers, coupled with an electronic system for monitoring of symptoms of HCWs, plus continued augmentation of hospital staff to ensure continuous service.

The Medical City

For Dr. Lourdes Jimenez, chair of the Department of Emergency Medicine of The Medical City (TMC), the pandemic completely changed the conventional landscape on how the ED is run and designed based on staffing, structure, system and supplies.

“This is exemplified by separating the respiratory and non-respiratory cases under Covid and non-Covid, where TMC was introduced as a 2-in-1 hospital catering to Covid and nonCovid cases.”

She said TMC created two EDs for Adults and Pediatrics with the same triage capabilities catering to all case severities, both Covid and non-Covid.

“By doing this, we maintained the main ED as the Covid area based on its space and structural design, and converted our Pediatric ED as an Adult and non-Covid ED.” To maintain hospital staff ’s function, daily inventory of PPEs were monitored through advisories, while supplies were augmented by donations from non-government organizations (NGOs) and private institutions.

Dr. Jimenez noted that perhaps the most difficult on her part as director of the ED in a private hospital was how to create a balance in the clinical and financial aspects in terms of service.

“Of course we are expected to render clinical service but we also need to be aligned with the business aspects to remain operational.”

To prevent them from shutting down, Dr. Jimenez said TMC created the Epidemic Rapid Response Team by the Chief Medical Officer and Infectious Diseases director. The objective was to be able to plan ahead on what would be the possible effects of Covid-19. The hospital also came up with what she said as “Covid Pathways,” where they convened all the various specialties to agree to the total management of Covid. Various programs were also developed to address the overcrowding of the ED. “We stratified our patients since we cannot cater to everyone in the ED. We created different avenues where we can direct them and created the Covid-19 Teleconsultation Service based on the behavior of ED patients.

We even extended its operating hours of the service to cater to everyone,” she related.

Lastly, TMC came up with the Covid Home Care Program in coordination with Health Link to be able to manage moderate cases.

Sports BusinessMirror

HIDILYN DIAZ

YUKA SASO

CARLOS YULO

NESTHY PETECIO

CARLO PAALAM

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| Thursday, February 3, 2022 mirror_sports@yahoo.com.ph Editor: Jun Lomibao

EUMIR MARCIAL

CARLO BIADO

ALEX EALA

NONITO DONAIRE JR.

WHO’S YOUR BEST ATHLETE FOR 2021?

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HE most memorable period in Philippine sports history will be relived and honored next month as the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) and San Miguel Corp. (SMC) team up anew for the organization’s Annual Awards Night.

The festivity is booked at the ballroom of the Diamond Hotel Manila and could either be held face-to-face or

virtual similar to last year depending on the health situation days leading to the March 14 special event.

What is certain though is that the grand celebration will take place on a special night when the sportswriting community pays tribute to the men and women who made 2021 truly a wonderful year for local sports notwithstanding the global health pandemic.

The highlight of the event that has

the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) as major backers, is the awarding of the prestigious Athlete of the Year trophy solely given by the oldest media organization in the country composed of editors and writers of leading dailies and sports web sites.

Weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz, bless her heart, leads several nominees for the coveted award after giving

champion Nonito Donaire Jr. Other awards to be given out during the affair also supported

by MILO, 1Pacman, Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), Rain or Shine, ICTSI, Philracom, Chooks To Go, Smart, and the MVPSF, are the President’s Award, Executive of the Year, National Sports Association (NSA) of the Year, and the Lifetime Achievement Award.

At the same time, an Excellence in

Leadership award will be handed out during the gala night, according to PSA president Rey C. Lachica, sports editor of Tempo.

Major Awards, the “Manok Ng Bayan Award,” and special citations complete the compact list of honorees.

Last year, the PSA held its Awards Night virtually for the first time in its history, with Saso emerging as the 2021 Athlete of the Year winner.

TOLENTINO TO MILLER: GIVE IT YOUR BEST SHOT

While in Beijing, Miller eats local, craves for, what else-Peking Duck

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ANQING, China—While in China, eat Chinese—and Asa Miller, a second-timer in Beijing, is doing just that.

His favorite? Peking Duck or Chinese roast duck, no less.

Miller and dad Kelly Miller arrived at the Yanqing Athletes Village on Monday morning and upon hitting the Mess Hall, the first order of business was to look for, what else, Peking Duck.

“Peking Duck’s my favorite food at the village,” Miller told BusinessMirror on Wednesday.

“The duck absolutely tastes great.”

But out of the 200 viands or food variety—out of a total dish selection of 678—there was no Peking Duck at the hall.

“I was disappointed not to see it served today,” said Miller, who first visited Beijing in a 2014 tour.

Peking Duck is an excellent source of protein, carbohydrates and some fats, too, offering a total of 409 calories—which don’t alarm the athletes who burn them everyday anyway.

Miller, an Economics sophomore at Westminster College in Salt Lake City, also loves rice noodles or pancit.

Kelly, 53, an employee at Microsoft, said it is important that his son, like all athletes, gets hydrated all the time to keep their physical strength and mental focus.

“We always make sure he has the right amount of fuel in his body to stay hydrated, which is the most important for an athlete,” said Kelly, adding that with hundreds of choices, they’re still figuring out what dish varities to combine for his son.

Miller has grown. From only 140 pounds in a 5-foot-8 frame in Pyeongchang 2018, he’s now 155 lbs all muscle.

His second day of training at the National Alpine Skiing Centre at Xiaohaituo Mountain gave him more feel of the environment, snow and terrain.

“The training was again very solid. The snow and hills are very good, and I’m looking forward to spending more time skiing before my competitions,” Miller said.

Josef Ramos

this country of 110 million people its breakthrough Olympic gold medal at the Tokyo Games.

Also on the list is US Women’s Open champion Yuka Saso, world gymnastics championships gold medalist Carlos Yulo, Tokyo Olympic silver medal winners Nesthy Petecio and Carlo Paalam, as well as bronze medalist Eumir Marcial, US Open pool champion Carlo Biado, tennis grand slam winner Alex Eala and four-weight boxing

ALIPINE skier Asa Miller (fifth from left) meets Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) President Rep. Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino (fourth from left) as well as (from left) POC chief legal counsel Atty. Billy Sumagui, Miller’s father Kelly Miller, chef de mission Bones Floro, Athletes Welfare Officer Joebert Yu and Philippine Ski Snowboard Federation President Jim Apelar.

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By Josef Ramos

ANQING, China—Alpine skier Asa Miller was taking a break from training on Wednesday morning when he got himself a surprise visitor—Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) President Rep. Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino.

Miller got to meet face-to-face with Tolentino for the first time with

the Filipino-American receiving encouraging words being the country’s lone representative to the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, he’ll have to give it his best shot.

Miller’s in a field of 150 alpine skiers stacked with world-class athletes from Europe and the US, all of whom are veterans of international competitions.

Miller—only 21 and competing

Brady retires after 22 seasons, amazing 7 Super Bowl crowns TOM BRADY: Right now, it’s best I leave the field of play to the next generation of dedicated and committed athletes. AP

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AMPA, Florida—Tom Brady walked away from the National Football League (NFL) on his own terms, still at the top of his game.

Brady, the most successful quarterback in league history and one of the greatest champions in professional sports, has retired after winning seven Super Bowls and setting numerous passing records in an unprecedented 22-year career.

“This is difficult for me to write, but here it goes: I am not going to make that competitive commitment anymore,” Brady wrote in a lengthy post on Instagram. “I have loved my NFL career, and now it is time to focus my time and energy on other things that require my attention.”

The 44-year-old Brady has long stated his desire to spend more time with his wife, supermodel Gisele Bundchen, and three children despite his unique ability to perform exceptionally well at an age when most athletes are way past their prime.

Brady goes out after leading the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to a Super Bowl title last season and National Football Conference (NFC) South championship this season.

News of Brady’s pending retirement leaked Saturday but he said Monday night on his SiriusXM podcast he wasn’t ready to finalize his plans.

That came Tuesday morning.

“Right now, it’s best I leave the field of play to the next generation of dedicated and committed athletes,” Brady said.

Brady thanked the Buccaneers organization, his teammates, ownership, general manager Jason Licht, coach Bruce Arians, his trainer Alex Guerrero, agents Don Yee and

in his second straight Winter Olympics—was encouraged could pull off an improbable task and join the ranks of Tokyo Olympics gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz and company.

“Remember what I gave our Olympic medalists—the gold, the silver and the bronze? I gave them a house and lot each in Tagaytay.

Get one,” Tolentino told Miller during a meeting among the members of Team Philippines at the National Alpine Skiing Centre atop Xiaohaituo Mountain.

“The gold medalist [Diaz] got more than a million dollars,” said Tolentino, the first POC president in memory to attend the Winter Olympics since the country started qualifying athletes to the Games in Sapporo, Japan, in 1972.

The Portland (Oregon)-based Miller humbly responded to Tolentino’s challenge.

“I’ll do my best…there are lots of

Steve Dubin and his family in his nine-page post. He didn’t mention the New England Patriots, where he spent his first 20 seasons and won six Super Bowls playing for Bill Belichick. But Brady thanked the Patriots and their fans on Twitter, saying: “I’m beyond grateful. Love you all.”

Brady said he’s still figuring out how he’ll spend his time, but he plans to be involved in his TB12 health and wellness company, Brady clothing line and NFT company.

“I know for sure I want to spend a lot of time giving to others and trying to enrich other people’s lives, just as so many have done for me,” he said.

Brady led the NFL in yards passing (5,316), touchdowns (43), completions (485) and attempts (719) in 2021, but the Buccaneers lost at home to the Los Angeles Rams in the divisional round.

Brady leaves as the career leader in yards passing (84,520) and TDs (624).

He’s the only player to win more than five Super Bowls and was MVP of the game five times.

Brady won three NFL MVP awards, was a first-team All-Pro three times and was selected to the Pro Bowl 15 times. He was 243-73 in his career in the regular season and 35-12 in the playoffs.

“To finish a 22-year career while still performing at his peak was nothing short of extraordinary,” Licht said. “I wish we had more time with Tom, but I understand and respect his decision to leave the game in order to spend more time with his family.”

Brady went from 199th pick in the 2000 draft to replacing an injured Drew Bledsoe in 2001 and leading New England to a Super Bowl victory over the heavily favored Rams that season.

He led the Patriots to consecutive Super Bowl titles following the 2003-04 seasons. No team has since repeated as champions.

But New England wouldn’t win another one for a decade, twice losing to the New York Giants in the Super Bowl, including a 17-14 defeat on February 3, 2008, that prevented the Patriots from completing a perfect season. AP

best skiers out there. It takes time, I have to build and take the process,” said Miller, who thanked Tolentino and the POC and the Philippine Sports Commission for supporting his campaign.

POC chief legal counsel Billy Sumagui accompanied Tolentino in the trip to the Winter Olympics.

The duo were then joined by Chef de Mission Bones Floro, Athletes Welfare Officer Joebert Yu and Philippine Ski and Snowboarding Federation President Jim Apelar in meeting Miller.

The Winter Olympics commence on Friday with Miller hitting the slopes for the men’s giant slalom on February 13 and the slalom three days later.

Tolentino, meanwhile, said that he will explore the development of winter sports in years to come.

“It’s really an honor to have Asa here to represent our country, this

is a very expensive sport, you have to pay for everything—the gear, including the gondola,” Tolentino said. “We will explore the Winter Games sports and we will try to find more Filipino talents.”

The Philippines has been consistent in qualifying athletes at least in the last three Winter Olympics although figure skater Michael Martinez missed the Beijing edition after Sochi 2014 where he was the first Southeast Asian to vie in the event and Pyeongchang 2018.

In the Summer Games, the Philippines booked its first Olympic gold medal in Tokyo with Diaz’s victory in women’s -55 kgs of weightlifting and its best finish yet in the biggest sports competition in the world with boxers Carlo Paalam and Nesthy Petecio clinching silver medals and Eumir Felix Marcial bagging a bronze.

Taiwan relents, will attend opening ceremony in China

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EIJING—Olympic officials in Taiwan have reversed a decision to skip Friday’s opening ceremony of the Beijing Games, saying they were pressured to do so by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

Taiwanese athletes compete as Chinese Taipei at the Olympics as part of a decades-old agreement with China brokered by the IOC. China claims the self-ruled island of Taiwan as its own territory and has an ongoing policy of diplomatic and military intimidation.

The IOC said Tuesday “the Chinese Taipei Olympic Committee has confirmed its participation” in opening and closing ceremonies at this year’s Winter Games. The statement did not address the Olympic body’s own role in the process.

Officials in Taiwan said the country would “adjust” its plan not to have an opening ceremony delegation in Beijing after repeated requests by the IOC to attend and fulfill obligations under the Olympic Charter.

Last year, the IOC cited charter rules when suspending North Korea from the Beijing Games for refusing to send a team to the Tokyo Olympics.

The Taiwanese team, which has four athletes competing at the Beijing Games, had also identified Covid-19 security among reasons not wanting to send officials to the ceremonies.

UNITED NATIONS CHIEF URGES TRUCE IN ETHIOPIA

UNITED Nations (UN) SecretaryGeneral Antonio Guterres made “the strongest possible appeal” to all combatants in Ethiopia on Tuesday to observe the Olympic Truce and halt hostilities.

The UN chief told reporters that observing the truce can allow people in need throughout the country to receive humanitarian aid and can help pave the way for an inclusive dialogue involving all Ethiopians.

A resolution adopted by consensus by the 193-member UN General Assembly in December urged all countries to observe the Olympic Truce “individually and collectively” from the week before the start of the 24th winter Olympic games in Beijing until the week after the Paralympics.

The Olympics run from February 4 to 20 followed by the Paralympics from March 4 to 13.

The assembly recalled the ancient Greek tradition of ekecheiria, calling for an “Olympic Truce,” to encourage a peaceful environment and ensure safe passage and participation of athletes in the games, “thereby mobilizing the youth of the world to the cause of peace.”

Guterres said “the people of Ethiopia continue to suffer greatly from ongoing conflict and bloodshed.” AP