BusinessMirror February 14, 2024

FSR flags rising real estate prices, vacancies

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HE rising prices of real estate and the growing number of vacancies have been flagged by the Financial Stability Report (FSR), which warned that it “should not be left unattended.”

In the latest FSR, the Financial Stability Coordination Council (FSCC) noted that the real estate sector will always be closely monitored given its role in previous contagion such as the Asian Financial Crisis (AFC) in 1997-1998

and the Global Financial Crisis in 2008-2009.

Monitoring the sector is a given as the financing for these real estate projects are tied with the local banking sector. As such, the FSR said “with the loan portfolio of banks significantly invested in real estate activities, prudence requires a second look.”

“Real estate will always be closely monitored given its stylized role in the boom-and-bust cycle. At

present, there seems to be some surprising trends in the residential sector, with prices rising in tandem with vacancies,” FSR said.

What is clear at this point, the FSR said, is that there is a sharp increase in residential prices in areas outside the National Capital Region (AONCR) compared to those in Metro Manila.

While this can be taken as an investment into the future or a home away from the metropolis, the FSCC

said Commercial Real Estate (CRE) are still reeling from the ill effects of the lockdowns imposed due to Covid-19.

“This should not be left unattended and may be an area for active discussion with market constituents,” the FSR stated.

Last week, a story in the Business Times noted that the cont ag ion i n t he US rea l est ate See “FSR,” A2

BusinessMirror A broader look at today’s business

FSCC: U.S. FED LIKELY KEEPING RATES HIGH www.businessmirror.com.ph

n Wednesday, February 14, 2024 Vol. 19 No. 122

P25.00 nationwide | 2 sections 28 pages | 7 DAYS A WEEK

By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario

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HE United States Federal Reserve will likely keep its rates high for a longer period of time and rate cuts may be optimistic at this point, according to the Financial Stability Coordination Council (FSCC).

In the latest Financial Stability Report (FSR), the FSCC chaired by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said all eyes will remain on the Federal Reserve even if a USled recession did not occur.

According to FSR, while the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) said the tightening cycle is nearing its peak, it was still waiting for inflation to hit the US inflation target of 2 percent.

“Our view then is that any expectation of an early rate cut is optimistic. It is more likely that the Fed will keep its policy rates elevated over a longer period than expected by the market,” the FSR stated.

“Progress has been made, and by extension, the spillover pressures are not as pronounced. But the task of calibrating the economy with policy rates is also not yet complete.This is why most central banks do not take off the table the possibility of yet another rate hike,” it added.

The FSCC said the headline inflation rate in the US was still higher than expected at 3.4 percent in December 2023. The aim See “FSCC,” A2

EDSA COMMUTER EXPERIENCE DOTr Assistant Secretary James Melad, MMDA Acting Chairman Romando Artes, SM Supermalls

President Steven Tan, DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista, SM Prime President Jeffrey Lim, Busway advocate Eddie Yap, and DPWH Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo spearheaded the groundbreaking ceremonies for the EDSA Busway concourse at SM North EDSA in Quezon City on February 13, 2024. This collaborative effort between the government and private sector aims to enhance commuter convenience along the EDSA carousel route by introducing a modern and PWD-friendly busway footbridge. The new concourse will seamlessly connect the innovative carousel bus line with SM North EDSA, promising improved accessibility and efficiency for commuters. NONOY LACZA

LOREN NIXES PRIVATIZATION, DEMOLITION OF POST OFFICE

By Ma. Stella F. Arnaldo

@akosistellaBM Special to the BusinessMirror

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O to malls and highrise hotels.

This was the statement of Senator Loren Legarda, who urged the Philippine Postal Corp. (PhilPost) on Tuesday to reject any overtures to privatize the 97-year-old Manila Central Post Office (MCPO) building, which was partially burned in May 2023. “Enough of malls, enough of high-rise hotels in that area... We should preserve

it the name of culture and history for generations to come,” the lawmaker said in a mix of English and Filipino.

Legarda, chair of the special committee on the rehabilitation of the MCPO, assured PhilPost officials of funds from the General Appropriations Act (GAA) in 2025 to support the government-owned and -controlled corporation agreement to make MCPO part of an arts and cultural hub after the building’s restoration. The assurance See “Post office,” A2

NG raises ₧272.7B as 5-yr RTBs offered ‘sweet spot’

By Reine Juvierre Alberto

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HE tender of 5-year retail treasury bonds (RTBs) raised for the national government P272.7 billion, noncuple or nine times the offer made by the Bureau of Treasury (BTr) for the 30th tranche of the debt paper. “ T he auction received overwhe l m i ng suppor t , at t rac t i ng P272.7 billion in total tenders— nine times the P30 billion initial offer,” read the statement the Treasury issued after the auction on Tuesday.

The RTBs had a coupon rate of 6.250 percent. Meanwhile, the average auction yield at 6.156 percent is slightly higher than the comparable

5-year PHP BVAL yield of 6.14 percent as of February 12.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corp.

(RCBC) Chief Economist Michael L. Ricafort said the comparable PHP BVAL yield is “still near 5-year highs, so [it is] attractive for investors, based on cycles.”

“The national government still saves on borrowing costs with the said yield down by at least -0.60 from the immediate high posted in early November 2023; so, a sweet spot for both investors and the issuer [national government],” Ricafort said.

The RCBC executive added that in view of large RTB maturity and See “NG,” A2

PESO EXCHANGE RATES n US 56.0670 n JAPAN 0.3754 n UK 70.8126 n HK 7.1727 n CHINA 7.7903 n SINGAPORE 41.7010 n AUSTRALIA 36.6061 n EU 60.4122 n KOREA 0.0422 n SAUDI ARABIA 14.9512 Source:

BSP (13 February 2024)

A2

Wednesday, February 14, 2024

BusinessMirror

ERC says Meralco rate hike unduly burdens consumers

By Lenie Lectura @llectura

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HE Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) questioned on Tuesday the rate hike imposed by the Manila Electric Company (Meralco) this month, saying it was premature for the utility firm to pass on to the consumers the cost related to higher gas prices.

“Meralco cannot impose or collect charges that are not allowed under the ERC approvals,” said ERC Chairperson Monalisa Dimalanta via text message.

She was referring to the higher generation charge that led to an increase of P0.5738 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) in the February billing, bringing overall rate for a typical household to P11.9168 per kWh this month from P11.3430 per kWh in January.

G e ne r at ion c h a r ge w e nt up

by P0.4552 to P7.1020 per kWh primarily due to higher cost of power from Independent Power Producers (IPPs)

Post office. . .

Continued from A1

was prompted after National Museum (NM) Director Jeremy Barns revealed that PhilPost needed “direction” from the executive department or the legislature so as not to constrain the GOCC to just generate profits. “This belongs to the Filipino people,”

and Power Supply Agreements (PSAs).

Meralco said charges from IPPs spiked by P1.4764 per kWh due to higher fuel costs of Sta. Rita and San Lorenzo gas plants of First Gas Power Corporation (FGPC). This resulted from the plants’ use of imported liquefied natural gas (LNG).

IPPs and PSAs accounted for 32.8 percent and 46.8 percent, respectively, of Meralco’s total energy requirement in the last supply month.

The ERC, in a letter to Meralco dated February 12, urged the distribution utility (DU) firm to complete the validation to justify the rate adjustment.

While Meralco admitted that a validation of the impact of the use of LNG and the new gas supply contracts is necessary in light of the terms of its power purchase agreements (PPAs), up to this date, the ERC has not been provided with the results of Meralco’s validation.

“On the basis of the foregoing, we are constrained from giving any clearance for the recovery of such costs if

Meralco itself has not completed its validation or provided the results of such validation to the Commission.

Pending Meralco’s validation of the basis of such charges, passing on of such costs to the consumers may be premature,” Dimalanta said.

When sought for clarification if Meralco should recall the rate component related to higher LNG prices, Dimalanta said “yes.”

Meralco, for its part, said it will comply with the directive of the ERC and reported that a refund of the gas component is in the offing.

“We just received the reply of ERC Chair to our various letters today. Based on ERC Chair’s guidance, we are ready to implement a refund in generation charges corresponding to the increase in the Malampaya gas price of First Gas plants for the January supply month. As these are passthrough costs, we will also not be in a position to pay the equivalent cost to First Gas,” said Meralco First Vice President and Regulatory Management

said Legarda at the committee hearing, “and I know you’re a GOCC and you need assistance.... It doesn’t matter how many hundreds of millions you need, the national government will help you.”

nor privatized. In 2012, there were overtures from the Fullerton Group of Singapore to conserve and convert the MCPO into a fivestar hotel. The MCPO, designed by architect Juan M. Arellano an Tomas Manual in a neo-classical line, has been designated a National Historical Landmark and an Important Cultural Property. The building itself is owned by PhilPost while the lot is owned by the national government.

Initial insurance payout

OFFICIALS of cultural agencies along with a civil society heritage group also agreed that the MCPO should not be demolished

Head Atty. Ronald Valles when sought for comment.

He added that for the LNG component of the fuel cost of First Gas plants, Meralco will file the appropriate pleading with ERC for confirmation of the pass-through of these costs. When asked how much will Meralco refund its customers Valles said, “The rate component from the LNG is small.”

The ERC, as a regulatory body committed to upholding transparency and protecting the consumers, underscored that all DUs are mandated to exercise prudence in passing on fuel costs to shield the Filipino consumers from bearing undue financial burdens and ensure that charges are reasonable, uninflated, fairly computed, and consistent with their obligation to supply electricity in the least cost manner.

It stressed that DUs should remain diligent in validating costs being imposed by generation companies before passing them on to consumers. Any costs passed on to consumers must be in accordance with Meralco’s PPAs, as approved by the Commission.

“In recent decisions issued by the ERC involving pass-through generation charges, the ERC reminds all distribution utilities that their duty does not end when electric power is supplied, and the charges have been collected,” Dimalanta stressed.

For his par t, Postmaster General Luis D. Carlos said PhilPost has already received P100 million in initial insurance compensation from the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), a portion of which was used for the ongoing rehabilitation of an annex at the MCPO compound, where PhilPost’s 700 employees can transfer from their current offices at the Manila airport.

He added, “We can use part of that to restore the [main] building,” as he spoke to an initial estimate he gave senators last year that the cost to rehabilitate the MCPO may reach some P1.7 billion. The rest of the P200-million insurance that will be paid

by GSIS, he noted, can also be used for the restoration.

Winning bidder

THE Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (Tieza) has already allocated P15 million for the Detailed Architectural and Engineering Studies (DAES) of the MCPO. Tieza is the infrastructure arm of the Department of Tourism (DOT), which also sits on the Inter-Agency Task Force for Cultural Heritage. Other members of the task force that will oversee the restoration of the MCPO include the National Cultural Commission for the Arts (NCCA), the NM, PhilPost, the City of Manila, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, and the National Archives.

In a Viber message to the B usiness M irror , Tieza COO Mark G. Lapid disclosed that the P15-million DAES contract was won by Certeza Infosys in joint venture with Techno Earth System Corp.

At the Senate hearing, NCCA Executive Director Victorino Mapa Manalo assured Legarda that their agency submitted the terms of reference for the bidding of the DAES to Tieza and was confident the winning bidder had the capacity and experience to undertake the project. He stressed that DAES is preparatory to an actual restoration of the MCPO, which will be a separate project.

In his opening statement, Carlos backed the Senate resolution to restore and rehabilitate the MCPO, as this will “contribute to the revitalization of Intramuros...[and] generate economic and educational opportunities as a cultural hub.” He added that adaptive reuse options for the restored MCPO can be explored as this “can enhance its functionality—this could involve incorporating museum spaces, creative hubs or community centers, alongside modern postal services.”

For her part, Senator Nancy Binay, chair of the Committee on Tourism, also supported the “adaptive reuse” of the MCPO upon its rehabilitation.

www.businessmirror.com.ph

FSR. . .

Continued from A1

se c tor i s s pre ad i ng to Eu rop e.

(See: https://www.businesstimes. com.sg/property/us-commercialreal-estate-contag ion-movingeurope) However, the story quoted US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen saying that the losses in commercial real estate will place a stress on owners but the problem remains manageable at this time.

Rosy scenario ON Tuesday, BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona Jr. said reporting on risks is common, but often overlooked are the “rosy” pictures painted before crises struck.

Remolona said many of the recent crises experienced globally were preceded by rosy expectations and scenarios.

Prior to the 1997-1998 AFC, Remolona said the World Bank released a glowing report about the East Asia miracle, which excluded the Philippines. This, even though the country was feeling the spillover effects of the success of its neighbors, he noted.

In the Philippines, before the 1997-1998 crisis, the biggest story was that of First Pacific and a consortium of international investors winning the bid for Fort Bonifacio.

Remolona said the bid in 1995 was $1.6 billion and was dubbed the “property deal of the decade.” However, only

FSCC. . .

Continued from A1

of the Federal Reserve, FSCC said, is to see inflation slowdown “accompanied by a softening labor market.”

Meanwhile, in his opening statement, BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona Jr. the FSR communicates to the public the risks that could lead to crises in the near or far future.

BSP Office of Systemic Risk Management Senior Assistant Governor Johnny Noe Estanislao Ravalo explained that the FSR examines systemic risk and not aggregates.

These risks are identified based on 14,000 individual balance sheets that are monitored. The earnings and interest coverage ratios are among the components that are examined.

These are inputted in network models that allow the FSCC, through the BSP, to connect firms to one another and determine the extent of their exposure to contagion.

“The challenge is that systemic risk is inherently difficult to comprehend. Markets are fluid and things

NG. . .

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relatively higher yields, “ jumbo,” or even record, RTB issuance is possible although the Treasury expects to raise about P400 billion in RTBs. Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto has urged Filipinos to invest in the 30th tranche of RTBs, saying that “more than just a financial contract,” the debt security is “a commitment to shared prosperity, which will help drive the government’s socioeconomic agenda forward and empower ordinary Filipinos to financial freedom.”

“Nagpapakita ito ng isang klase ng gobyerno na handang umalalay sa mga Pilipino tungo sa pag-asenso, sa murang investment na limang libong piso [This shows a kind of government that is ready to assist Fiipinos towards development with an investment worth P5,000]” said the head of the De pa r t ment of Fi n a nce (DOF).

T he minimum investment for RTBs is P5,000 and in multiples of P5,000 thereafter, during the offer period, which the public can avail itself of through digital technologies. RTBs are “fixed-income securities that pay a fixed interest rate per annum over a specified period of time with a

two years after, the AFC struck, plunging currencies and stock markets in the region.

“Massive loans went unpaid. Property prices collapsed. And tall buildings, landfills, and houses collapsed.

The whole region went into recession,” Remolona said.

“We remember the crisis but we often forget the rosy scenario that came before it. This FSR is about reminding us about the rosy scenario. We communicate these kinds of risks,” he added.

The FSCC aims to promote financial stability for both corporates and individuals. One of the lessons of the GFC is that “the financial system is more than just the sum of its parts.”

The FSCC noted that the financial sector has a “systemic-ness” that creates a network of transactions. The interconnected and sequenced transactions could lead to systemic risks that have to be managed.

Promoting financial stability is a formal mandate of the BSP. This is provided for in the amended BSP Charter (Republic Act No. 11211) which was signed by President Duterte in February 2019.

The objective of “Financial Stability” is to enhance the resilience of the financial system, in its totality and in its components, from shocks.

This is done by managing systemic risks that could affect the financial system so that finance continues to be a value proposition to consumers in normal times while remaining resilient when disruptions do arise.

Cai U. Ordinario

can change very quickly. There are risks arising from our own markets.

There are risks coming from foreign markets that can spill over onto our shores,” Remolona said.

“The risks that are of the biggest concern are those that are brewing in out-of-sight corridors. Risks that turn out to be contagious and lead to broader dislocations. We have a bird of black swans to indicate highly unlikely surprises. Or the butterfly effect to reflect how small things can lead to farreaching consequences. These are the things we worry about,” he explained.

The FSCC is an interagency council where the principals from the BSP, the Department of Finance, the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Insurance Commission, and the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation convene quarterly.

These meetings provide the venue to assess possible systemic risks and to decide on appropriate macroprudential policy inter ventions.

The National Treasurer is likewise an active participant in the discussions of the FSCC and is a Special Member of the Executive Committee.

promise to return the principal at the end of the term.”

Recto added, “We should instill in our people a mindset that embraces and normalizes a culture of saving and investing, all while actively participating in the nation’s development.”

The RTB 30 is a 5-year tenor investment with a gross interest rate of 6.250 percent per annum, payable every quarter until its maturity in 2029.

The offer period for RTB 30 will run from February 13 to 23, 2024, subject to the discretion of the BTr, according to the Treasury.

As RTBs can be purchased through the online ordering facility of the BTr and via mobile banking through the LandBank, OFBank and Bonds.PH applications, Recto emphasized the need to intensify cyrbersecurity measures to protect investors’ money.

The DOF, for its part, will continue to be a strong supporter of the BTR’s future issuances to offer “more attractive and dependable investment products available for small savers,” Recto said.

The Finance Secretary added that together with the economic team, the DOF will continue “fostering a stronger economy conducive to investing.”

“We will do this by bringing in more investments that create high-quality jobs for our people, ensuring ample liquidity in the financial system, and strengthening local capital markets,” Recto said at the launch of the RTBs on Tuesday.

Wednesday, February 14, 2024

www.businessmirror.com.ph • Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug

‘Assertive transparency’ now PHL’s weapon of choice in row with China

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ECURITY experts urged the government Tuesday to institutionalize “assertive transparency” because it has been proven effective in countering China’s escalating misinformation and malign activities in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

The experts made the statement during a forum that tackled disinformation in the WPS organized by the Stratbase Institute.

Retired United States Col. Raymond Powell, founder of security think tank Project Sealight emphasized, “The importance of institutionalizing transparency—to write it down and disseminate so that everybody will fully understand it.”

“Maximum transparency brings maximum accountability...if you turn on the lights in the grey zone, all of sudden the ‘cockroaches’ scatter,” Powell said.

Dr. Benjamin Goirigolzarri, Ph.D., Team Member of Project Myoushu, Gordian Knot Center for National Security Innovation said, “Committing to the use of free press offered a really compelling narrative in the face of Chinese misinformation. So, now, Philippine vessels are armed with journalists ready to document run-ins with the Chinese militia to put on display to the world the bullying that Chinese are doing in the South China Sea [SCS].”

“Assertive transparency shifts the calculus on grey zone aggression. It has the impression of imposing a really steep international reputational cost to the bad actors,” Goirigolzarri said.

In a paper published by Stratbase Institute, Powell and Gorigolzarri comprehensively analyzed the government’s assertive transparency initiative, which involves “seeking out and exposing Chinese maritime aggression for the world to see.”

They noted that the transparency initiative “enables ordinary citizens to viscerally experience the full measure of gray zone aggression, which gives the government

increased political latitude to take the hard steps required to push back.”

Commodore Jay Tarriela, Philippine Coast Guard Adviser of the Commandant for Maritime Security, said, “our efforts to publicize compelling videos and images that truthfully document Chinese illegal actions in the West Philippine Sea, have garnered international attention and condemnation. More countries are now expressing their criticism and standing in solidarity with Manila against Beijing’s bullying behavior and blatant disregard for international law.”

Tarriela pointed out that Beijing utilizes social media platforms and rely on their trolls to spread fake news and disinformation to support their false narrative. In the cyberinformation space, Tarriela said, “they aim to sow discord, disunity and confusion among the Filipino people.”

“Our transparency initiative is strategic because it does not require us to just be assertive in telling the truth or to withhold the portion of truth in order to be measured. Instead, it is strategic because it is designed to achieve a grand objective in pursuit of our national security and interest,” Tarriela said.

Stratbase Institute President Victor Andres Manhit said the Philippines’ assertive transparency campaign helps reaffirm the country’s rightful place within its own territory.

“China’s persistent claims over the West Philippine Sea remain inconsequential in altering the 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration. Their aggressive actions will not grant them the support of the international community. Their swarming and blocking tactics, excessive island-building, destruction of the marine environment, and water cannon tactics cannot overturn the established and well-respected international law,” Manhit said. Rizal Raoul S. Reyes

A3

‘Elusive’ suspect: PNP traces sender of bomb threats

By Rex Anthony Naval

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HE Philippine National Police (PNP) on Tuesday announced it has traced the source of a series of hoax bomb threats that targeted government agencies and schools nationwide last Monday.

The PNP said it has traced the emails to an alleged Japanese lawyer identified as Takahiro Karasawa, who earlier gained notoriety for making similar threats last year.

“Initial investigation conducted by the Anti-Cybercrime Group [ACG] reveals that these bomb threats are connected to previous instances of hoax bomb threats in government offices, public schools, and railway that occurred in September, October, and December of 2023. These threats also extend beyond our borders, affecting neighboring countries. It has been determined that all of these incidents can be traced back to a single email sender named Takahiro Karasawa, who identified himself as a Japanese lawyer,” PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said in a statement.

In wake of this incident, the PNP participated in the Joint Inter-Agency Conference attended by various government agencies and other stakeholders on Tuesday, February 13.

“The conference, presided over by the Department of Information and Communications Technology and attended by the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, National Privacy Commission and other concerned government agencies, and a representative from Japan aimed to formulate a comprehensive strategy to effectively combat this threat,” Fajardo said.

She urged the public to remain vigilant in face of these threats.

Also, community leaders are encouraged to keep their constituents well informed of their civic duties and responsibilities.

Fajardo also said it is crucial to avoid sharing unverified information, as this can lead to unnecessary panic and confusion.

“It is imperative to note that spreading false information or making threats related to bombs, explo-

sives, or similar devices is strictly prohibited under Presidential Decree 1727. Violators of this decree may face severe penalties, including up to five years of imprisonment or a fine not exceeding P40,000,” she added.

PNP taps BRAVE THE PNP also announced it has bolstered its capabilities to handle bomb threats with the acquisition of six advanced bomb removal automated vehicle (BR AVE) robots, and the groundbreaking for a new EOD/K9 facility.

PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. attended on Monday the groundbreaking rites for the new EOD/K9 Group headquarters in Camp Bagong Diwa in Bicutan, Taguig City.

During the event, the PNP also received six advance BRAVE robots donated by the United States AntiTerrorism Assistance (ATA).

“This collaboration showcases the synergy that can be achieved when diverse talents and shared goals converge,” Acorda said.

He also added that this initiative

Sen. Go cites role of proper nutrition for healthy citizens

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ENATOR Christopher “Bong” Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, personally attended the 2023 National Nutrition Awarding Ceremony, organized by the National Nutrition Council (NNC), at the Manila Hotel in Manila City on Monday, February 12.

The ceremony was also attended by Senator Francis “Tol” Tolentino, Department of Health Secretary Teodoro “Ted” Herbosa, Department of the Interior and Local Govern-

ment Secretary Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr., and National Nutrition Council Head Assistant Secretary Azucena Dayanghirang, among others.

The event celebrated the exceptional efforts of local government units (LGU) and barangay nutrition scholars (BNS) in advancing nutrition within their communities.

“Nutrition is the foundation upon which we build the future of our nation. Healthy citizens are more productive, can contribute

more to the economy, and lead to fulfilling lives. Recognizing this, our efforts towards enhancing nutritional standards and practices are not just an investment in health, but in the prosperity and resilience of our nation as a whole,” Go said in his speech.

Go expressed his vision for a healthier country where citizens can access the resources they need to live a nutritious and healthy life. He praised the LGUs and BNSs for their pivotal role in achieving this vision,

not only embraces innovation but also signifies a commitment to excellence and technological advancements in law enforcement, reshaping the future of policing in the Philippines.

Others who attended the event included Vincent Cooper, Senior Regional Security Officer of the US Embassy in Manila; and Rep. Jorge “Patrol” Bustos, of Patrol party list.

The PNP said the BRAVE robots “exemplify the power of international collaboration in combating terrorism.”

It also lauded De La Salle University for its indispensable role, via the innovative work of students under the guidance of Dr. Elmer P. Dadios, Head Professor in Robotics Engineering.

Meanwhile, the groundbreaking was held for the EOD/K9 Group Headquarters as a modern base. The group is headed by Brig. Gen. Albert Magno.

According to the PNP, the stateof-the-art facility “addresses the evolving challenges faced by law enforcement, ensuring that personnel are equipped with the infrastructure needed for effective operations.”

recognizing their hard work and dedication to improving the nutritional status of their communities.

“Malnutrition and all its forms continue to be a more persistent issue that requires our collective action. Let us renew our commitment to addressing hunger, achieving food security, and improving nutrition. This requires a concerted effort of all sectors of society including government, private sector, civil society, and communities,” he reminded.

During the event, Go gave away tokens of appreciation to all 600 attendees, which included 38 individual awardees.

Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug • www.businessmirror.com.ph

Wednesday, February 14, 2024

A4

DA disburses ₧455.59M to boost food production PBBM orders FDA to streamline

By Reine Juvierre Alberto

P10.972 million was released to DAAgricultural Training Institute (DAATI), while the remaining P12.823 million was given to DA-Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (DA-PhilMech).

The RCEF, created under the Republic Act (R A) No. 11203 or the Rice Tariffication Law, consists of an annual appropriation of P10 billion for the next six years following the approval of the Act and shall be automatically credited to a Special Account in the General Fund of the National Treasury.

The amount allocated for RCEF shall be released directly to the implementing agencies as provided for in the Act based on the objectives and plans of the rice industry roadmap.

The law further states that RCEF shall be allocated and disbursed to rice-producing areas where 50 percent of the fund shall be used as a grant in kind to eligible farmers associations,

registered rice cooperatives and local government units (LGU), in the form of rice farm equipment.

Thirty percent of the fund shall be used for the development, propagation, and promotion of inbred rice seeds to farmers and the organization of rice farmers into seed growers’ associations and/or cooperatives engaged in seed production and trade, while 10 percent shall be made available in the form of a credit facility with minimal interest rates and minimum collateral requirements to rice farmers and cooperatives.

Lastly, 10 percent shall be made available for the extension services provided by PhilMech, PhilRice, ATI and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority for teaching skills on rice crop production, modern rice farming techniques, seed production, farm mechanization, and knowledge and technology transfer through farm schools nationwide.

Marcos approves 10-year maritime industry devt plan

on the development of the so-called blue economy, through.

“Marina ensures that it is committed to working closely with the relevant government agencies, the private sector, and other stakeholders to ensure the effective implementation of the MIDP,” the statement read.

The agency added that it is “ready to lend our expertise and support to the MIDP Technical Board in carrying out its mandate and fulfilling the objectives set forth in Executive Order No. 55.”

Under the Palace order, the TB composed of representatives from the Marina Board, shall review, monitor, and recommend MIDP-related policies and programs to the Marina Board.

It is also required to establish an “integrated database and information system” for the maritime industry.

Marina expressed gratitude for the approval and adoption of the MIDP, recognizing its pivotal role in shaping a robust and sustainable Philippine maritime sector.

T

HE Department of Budget and M a n a g e m e n t ( D B M ) re le a se d a tot a l of P4 55. 59 m i l l ion for t he a g r ic u lt u re sec tor to bank rol l prog rams to boost l o c a l f o o d p r o du c t io n .

In a statement on Tuesday, the DBM said that Budget Secretar y Amenah F. Pangandaman approved the release of the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) for the first quarter of 2024.

“We will continue to support programs that boost the local production of major agricultural commodities, including rice, which is a staple food in almost every Filipino household,” Pangandaman said.

The fund was released to the Department of Agriculture (DA) and three other government-owned and -controlled corporations (GOCCs) after Pangandaman approved the

By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla

& Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan

P

RESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. created a technical board (TB) to hasten the implementation of the newly adopted 10-year Maritime Industry Development Plan (MIDP) 2028.

Under Executive Order (EO) No. 55 dated February 8, 2024, the Chief Executive tasked the TB to assist the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) in enforcing and reviewing the MIDP, which aims to create a “strong and reliable Philippine Merchant Fleet.”

The adoption of the MIDP 2028 came after Marina presented its draft to the President last month.

“To fully realize our potential as a maritime nation, the country requires a clearly defined and coordinated roadmap that shall

release of Notices of Cash Allocation (NCA).

The Budget chief approved the release of Notices of NCAs worth P431.79 million on January 29, which will finance the operating requirements for various programs and components of the implementing agencies of RCEP for the first quarter of the year.

The agencies implementing the RCEP are the Land Bank of the Philippines, which received P133.6 million, the Development Bank of the Philippines, which obtained P120 million, and the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), which received P178.1 million.

The Budget department also approved the issuance of NCA amounting to P23.79 million on January 26 in addition to the P431.79 million released to the abovementioned GOCCs. Of the approved amount of P23.79 million for the DA’s first quarter of 2024 operating cash requirements,

accelerate the integrated development of the Philippine Maritime Industry,” Marcos said in the four-page issuance.

The TB will be initially composed of Marina Board representatives with rank not lower than Assistant Secretary or its equivalent, but it may invite other relevant agencies and instrumentalities as additional members.

It will “review, monitor, and recommend approval of MIDP-related policies and programs to the Marina Board.”

Also part of its function is to establish an integrated database and information system following a specific statistical framework for the maritime industry in coordination with the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

Under the new MIDP, the government, together with the private sector, will prioritize the following: modernization and expansion of domestic shipping, shipbuilding and ship repair industry; expansion of the overseas

shipping industry; and promotion of highly skilled and competitive maritime workforce.

It will also push for the enhancement of maritime transport safety and security and promotion of environmentally sustainable maritime industry.

Marina will submit a progress report on the implementation of MIDP, which contains annual targets, accomplishments and data on budget utilization to the Office of the President through the Executive Secretary within 6 months from the implementation of EO 55 and every year thereafter.

Effective implementation

MARINA, for its part, committed to “effectively implement” the 10-year MIDP following the approval from President Marcos.

In a statement, the Marina said it would strengthen the collaboration with all stakeholders to ensure that the Philippines will see the MIDP 2028, which focuses

drug regulatory process, create ‘pharma zones’ for cheaper meds

T

O make affordable drugs more accessible to the public, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will be streamlining the application process for new generic drugs along with the establishment of “pharma zones.”

In a news conference at the Palace Tuesday, FDA Director General Samuel A. Zacate announced they would be issuing soon a memorandum circular (MC), which will reduce the processing time for generic drugs from 120 days to just 45 days, in line with the instruction of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. “I’d like to confirm that the President has directed the Food and Drug Administration to further streamline the drug application process in the Philippines and to provide further drug accessibility for all the Filipinos, and in the future, the cheaper medicine for us to be accessible also to the Filipino people,” Zacate said.

The President gave the instruction during a sectoral meeting with FDA last Tuesday.

Zacate said the faster processing time will apply to generic drugs, which have no patent issue, and come from a country with a strict regulatory agency such as the United States (US) FDA. FDA Director Jesusa Joyce N. Cirunay stressed they will not reduce the documentary requirement for the applications, which is set under the Asean common technical document.

“We will look into the paper used [by the regulatory agency]. If it satisfactorily complied with the requirements of the Asean common technical documents. We will not repeat [the screening process],” Cirunay said.

Pharma zones

FDA also said the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) will establish “pharma-zones” to encourage foreign pharmaceutical firms, which manufacture essential medicines and generic drugs, to establish their operations in the country.

In a statement, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said the new zones would consolidate companies that are engaged in all aspects of drug manufacturing, including research and development, clinical testing and trials as well as regulation.

They will be located in areas under jurisdiction of PEZA and will enjoy “certain tax and other financial incentives in order to bring down the cost of manufacturing.”

Under pharma-zone scheme, FDA will fast track the testing and registration of drugs to be manufactured by the said pharmaceutical companies through one-stop shops.

Zacate said the zone would be established in Clark and two other areas to be determined by PEZA. He said the President also instructed concerned agencies to amend Administrative Order 67 from 1989 to allow “foreign common drugs to come in” and help bring down drug prices.

Also part of FDA’s efforts to make the country more attractive to drug manufacturers is its efforts to extend the validation or the validity of the license to operate and the certificate of product registration from five years initial and 10 years renewal.

It is also “revising” its fees so it can upgrade its laboratory and testing abilities so it will be at par with other international regulation agencies. Samuel P. Medenilla

Special Feature BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Wednesday, February 14, 2024

A5

SM Supermalls: Where Love Finds its Lucky Charm!

BusinessMirror's Mary Ann Santos tries her hand at baking at Bake Be, The Block, SM North. Joshua Santos

Emo Fest at the Skydome, SM North Edsa. Joshua Santos

Go for a drive at Ekart Raceway at SM North Edsa. Joshua Santos

The Chinese New Year Dragon display at The Block, SM North Edsa. Joshua Santos

Love Floats at Skygarden, SM North Edsa. Joshua Santos

Go Singaporean at Tiong Bahru, The Block, SM North Edsa. Joshua Santos

Enjoy a cup of coffee at the cafe of Radisson Inn, SM North Edsa. Joshua Santos

Go Japanese at Yakiniku Like!, The Block SM North. Joshua Santos

SM Aura

play that can be found at The Block. n Feng shui expert Marites Allen was on hand to give her fearless forecast for the Year of the Wood Dragon. n Fur babies and their fur parents also had their day at SM North with Pets In Love at the Skygarden Pawpark. n Want to do something different? Go for a drive at Ekart Raceway, reportedly the country’s first all-electric indoor go-cart racing experience. Or, you can bake like a pro at Bakebe, the first app-powered baking studio n There was also an Emo Fest at the Skydome. Featuring the performances of Typecast and Chicosci, a huge crowd gathered to enjoy their favorite emo songs again and again.

L

ove is truly in the air at all SM Malls this love month of February. It might also be a good time for love to find that lucky charm as the SM Malls have also geared up to celebrate Chinese New Year.

To celebrate these two special occasions, the SM Malls came up with the theme “Luck in Love at SM,” a theme that inspired all SM Malls to come up with their own display executions, activities and promotional events.

W hether you celebrate the month with your partner, family or friends, the SM Malls have everything you need for love to find its lucky charm. Here are just some of the activities that the various SM Malls have to offer:

n SM Aura has set up a Mini Golf course for all to enjoy. Open daily from 4 pm to 10 pm at Level 5, Skypark Lawn, all you need is to present a single or accumulated receipts worth P5,000 at any SM Aura establishments or a minimum of P2,500 at any Skypark establishment to enter. n Indulge in a symphony of love this Valentine’s Day and be filled with lucky treats, sweet melodies and heartwarming moments.

SM Megamall

n There’s a Luck & Love Fair until February 29, 2024 at SM Megamall where you can buy a variety of trinkets and other items. n On Valentine’s Day, get a free

Strawberry Kiss for Two with a minimum purchase of P2,000 or a Young Coconut Crepe Cake with a minimum purchase of P2,500 from Greyhound PH. Promo is until February 18, 2024.

SM Mall of Asia

n SM Mall of Asia has a #LuckInLove Fair running until February 15 at the Main Mall Atrium, your one-stop destination for flowers and gifts for your special someone. n You can also feel the Luck In Love magic in the air as the MOA Royal Marching Band performs Bruno Mars Medley.

SM North Edsa

n Enjoy the Chinese New Year dis-

n Hungry? Grab a taste of Singaporean food at Tiong Bahru Singapore or a taste of Japanese food at Yakiniku Like. n Before going home, drop by Love Floats. Send your warm messages of love on a glowing lotus.

Visit it at the Skygarden until the end of the month.

SMaison

n Celebrate the season of love with SMaison’s enchanting “Springtime Valentine’s.” The centerpiece is made of huge, charming swans and picturesque floral displays.

Experience #LuckInLove this month of February at any SM Mall near you.

A display of hearts at SM Aura.

Join the Luck and Love fair at the Mega Atrium of SM Megamall.

The Valentine's Day display at the Main Mall Atrium of SM Mall of Asia

Visit the "Spring time Valentine's" centerpiece complete with huge charming swans and floral displays at S Maison

A6 Wednesday, February 14, 2024

News BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph | Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug

DA official assures ample rice, basic food supply amid El Niño T

Cancellation of Teves’ passport not yet final and executory–DOJ

By Samuel P. Medenilla

T

@sam_medenilla

HE Philippines has an ample supply of rice and other basic food commodities even before harvest season started amid the ongoing El Niño, according to the Department of Agriculture (DA).

DA Undersecretar y Ro ger V. Navarro made the assurance after Task Force El Niño (TFE) reported droughts already caused over P150 million wor th of agriculture damages in Regions 9 and 6.

“Secretary Kiko [Francisco Tiu] Laurel just briefed the President that all our crops commodities

especially for rice and corn, pork and chicken were very stable and there will be no problem in the coming months. So, we don’t need to worry,” Navarro said in a news conference in Malacañang Tuesday.

He noted the country already imported 590,000 metric tons of rice from January to February to augment the existing rice supplies.

“So, with the coming production, from March until April, May June we will have an ample supply of rice,” the DA official said.

El Niño impact

TFE spokesperson Jose “Joey” M. Villarama reported El Niño already caused P141.24 million damage to rice crops and P10.04 million

damage to corn crops in Zamboanga Peninsula and Western Visayas.

“So only these two regions are severely affected [by El Niño], but as I said, the task force is doing all it can to help the farmers affected by the situation,” Villarama said.

During their sectoral meeting with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. Tuesday, DA reported its Rice Supply and Demand Outlook for 2024, which showed rice supply in the country this year will be stable with an annual average surplus of 3.7 million metric tons or 99 days of buffer or days to last.

Laurel also said the country will have adequate supplies for corn, pork, chicken, egg, onion, sugar and fish this year.

Govt urged to widen declaration of state of calamity in Mindanao T

El Niño is projected to last until the second quarter of the year.

Rice aid

THE DA said the government is now considering converting the cash aid given to beneficiaries to Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4P), who belong to the poorest of the poor, into rice.

“We told the President that if we can convert the 4Ps—instead of money, it should be in rice form supplied by NFA [National Food Authority], so we will take them out in the price pressures of the market in terms of buying high-price rice,” Villarama said.

“The President is saying that we will consider the proposal and they

By Jonathan L. Mayuga @jonlmayuga

HE Philippine Movement for Climate Justice (PMCJ) is calling on the government to declare a state of calamity in Davao Region amid “contrasting” extreme weather events unfolding in Mindanao.

According to PMCJ, literally opposing extremes— flooding on the eastern seaboard and a dry spell on the western side—is alarming as the unlikely scenario of climate impact has not been seen in decades.

The continuous rains brought in by the trough of low pressure area (LPA) has affected the Davao Region since last week, with a reported 10 people killed in a new round of landslides and flooding in Davao de Oro province, the group said.

“Provinces in the Davao region have yet to recover from flooding and landslides brought about by the shear line in January,” Rara Ada, Mindanao Coordinator of PMCJ, said in a statement.

“And the first week of February brought another round of landslides and floods caused by rains brought by the LPA,” Ada added.

The provinces of Davao de Oro and Davao Oriental have declared their respective areas under a state of calamity to bring relief to the residents and address the destruction left behind by the previous weather phenomenon.

According to Ada, there is an urgent and immediate need to capacitate local government units to deal with the future climate impacts and at the same time declare a climate emergency in their respective localities.

Tawi-Tawi water crisis

MEANWHILE, Sitio Lumbus in the barangay of Mandulan in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi has been facing a critical issue with its freshwater source since the beginning of this year, PMCJ reported.

The group said residents have noticed a gradual depletion of the community well in which they rely heavily for their water needs.

The villagers endure long queues to fetch water from the aforesaid well, which now produces only a small amount of water. Adding to their difficulties, they have not had rain for several months. Residents

will take a look on how to implement this proposal,” he added.

Despite the existing sufficient rice stock, the price of regular milled rice is at P50 to P53 per kilo, while for well-milled it is at P49 to P56 per kilo based on the price monitoring of DA in Metro Manila.

Navarro, however, said the local price of rice is also similar to its neighboring countries Vietnam and Thailand.

“It’s better to have rice at P56 rather than no rice at P42. So, we need to also rationalize our thinking that we cannot bring down the price because the input prices especially for fertilizers and seeds in the international market are also going up the ceiling,” he said.

are going deeper into the forest, away from the coastal area where they live, just to get water.

“This shows how serious the residents’ situation is and how important it is to find long-term solutions,” said Ada. “As a municipality on an island, scarcity of water will become commonplace as global climate crises will have a direct and immediate impact on its environment,” she noted.

According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), a strong and mature El Niño is forecasted to persist until this month, with the majority of global climate models indicating its continuation until the March- April- May 2024 season.

A transition to El Niño-Southern Oscillationneutral conditions is expected in the April- MayJune 2024 season.

The Municipal Disaster and Risk Reduction Office in Bongao, led by Al-Gibran Amilasan, is closely monitoring the potential impact of drought, as forecasted by PAGASA.

Zamboanga Del Norte

IN Zamboanga del Norte, a dry spell due to El Niño is harming agriculture in the area. The Department of Agriculture (DA) reported losses of P717,503 affecting 22 farmers and 22.3 hectares of rice fields.

To mitigate the effects, the DA is providing crop management strategies to counter the dry spell.

However, the situation is expected to worsen, with the Philippines projected to become the world’s top rice importer, importing a record 3.8 million tons in 2024 according to data from the United States Department of Agriculture.

The dry spell is forecasted by PAGASA to persist until March, and has raised concerns about its impact on the country’s food supply. Rice inflation has already surged to 19.3 percent, the highest recorded since March 2009, posing significant challenges to food security.

“PMCJ is calling on the national government to decisively act on these highly unusual and calamitous weather occurring on opposite sides of the island and declare a state of emergency in Mindanao, as these may be a harbinger of more extreme weather events to unfold on the rest of Mindanao,” Ada concluded.

P27-B FUNDS FOR POOR IN BUDGET USED FOR ‘P.I.’?

Until today we do not have the list of donors from the advertisement and the proof of payment of the donors’ tax,” she added. In response, Oñate said his donors do not want to reveal their names in public due to privacy and security concerns. The committee, holding its third hearing, continued to discuss Senate Resolution Nos. 902 and 903 and the privilege speeches delivered by Senators Dela Rosa, Risa Hontiveros, and Majority Leader Joel Villanueva.

Senator Nancy Binay also urged Pirma’s leadership to reveal their group’s organizational structure, as she

noted that this was required for an endeavor of such magnitude as a People’s Initiative campaign.

“Maybe just for submission, because for this type of initiative there is a need for an organizational chart, right? So maybe we can ask Mr. [Noel] Oñate or Atty.

[Anthony] Abad, what is the organizational setup when it comes to a People’s Initiative.”

Binay expressed interest over Pirma’s organizational chart as she reiterated that a PI campaign could not be undertaken without a working organization.

Chiz: Pay hike won’t bust economy “They tout the steep cut in Corporate Income Tax (CIT) rates for business, saving them billions, as an economic necessity, while they treat a wage increase of a few pesos for workers,as if it were economic sabotage,” he observed.

The senator added that “in 2021, projected foregone revenues “lavishly given to the moneyed class was almost P139 billion, and they called it a form of economic stimuli, for the wealthy who did not ask for it.”

Escudero also recalled that proponents of tax breaks for the rich had argued that profits re-

By Joel R. San Juan @jrsanjuan1573

HE Department of Justice (DOJ) acknowledged Tuesday that the order of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) of Manila City to cancel the passport of expelled Negros Oriental 3rd District Rep. Arnolfo “Arnie” A. Teves Jr., is not yet final and executory.

In an interview with reporters during the “Safer Internet Day for Children” celebration held at the SMX ConventionCenterinPasayCity,DOJspokesmanDominic ClavanoIVsaidthejusticedepartmentwouldhavetowait for the court’s decision on the motion for reconsideration that Teves’ camp would be filing before the processes for the cancellation of his passport could commence.

Clavano said under the Rules of Court, Teves’ lawyers have 15 days within which to file a motion for reconsideration of the Manila RTC’s decision issued on February 8, 2024.

“Well due process dictates that the decision will become final and executory only upon 15 days, within which his counsel has a chance to file necessary pleadings, which include the motion for reconsideration,” Clavano said.

Asked if the possible filing of a motion for reconsideration by Teves’ lawyers would stall the execution of the cancellation of his passport, Clavano said the matter was up to “the appreciation of the judge.”

“On our part, that is something, that’s a bone of contention. In the decision, it was stated there that Teves’ personality would only be acknowledged once he presents himself before the court,” Clavano pointed out.

However, Clavano assured that the justice department would strongly oppose any motion that Teves’ camp would be filing just to delay the cancellation of his passport.

“We will oppose what the other camp was saying about the filing of a motion for reconsideration and appealing the decision before the Court of Appeals or the Supreme Court,” Clavano said.

LastFebruary8,theManilaRTCissuedanordergrantingthejusticedepartment’sbidtocancelTeves’passport, declaringthathisrighttotravelcanbeimpaired since his case involves public safety following his designation as a terrorist by the Anti Terror Council (ATC).

Teves has been tagged as the as mastermind in the killing of Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo and 10 other innocent civilians.

He is facing with multiple counts of murder before the trial court.

The Manila RTC held that Teves could be considered a fugitive from justice due to his failure to return to the country from the United States after the expiration of his travel authority on March 9, 2023.

Teves was allowed to travel to the US from February 9, 2023 to March 9, 2023 for medical purposes, while the killing of Degamo and 10 others happened on March 4, 2023.

“His actions as well as his group indeed created fear andintimidationofthelocalpopulationandgovernment of Negros Oriental undermining public safety.

Thus, there exist basis or grounds for the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to cancel accused Teves Jr.’s passport,” the court explained.

Aside from directing the DFA to cancel Teves’ passport, the trial court directed the secretary of DFA and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to take all the necessary steps to bring the former lawmaker to the country pursuant the warrant of arrest issued against him.

It also noted that based on the affidavits of his co-accused, strong evidence points he could be the mastermind behind the gruesome killing of Degamo and the innocent civilians in broad daylight.

Continued from A20 Meanwhile, Atty. Alex Avisado, Oñate’s counsel, said that Atty. Red Tuazon, who is in charge of operations for Pirma who was unable to attend the hearing, would be able to answer all questions on Pirma personnel and volunteers.

“Mr. Oñate po kasi hindi naman niya kilala ang mga tao on the field, but the operations group would be able to answer all your questions po,” Avisado said.

Oñate, lead convenor of Pirma, the group behind the “EDSA-pwera” ad, previously said that he was not acquainted with Tuazon.

Continued from A20

tained as a result of the lowering of the CIT will be used to retain payroll, or boost pay.

“They said, workers will be te first to taste the dividends from savings in tax payments. That instead of going to the BIR, this will go to the pockets of workers.

Did this happen? Where is the plowback?” the senator asked aloud, partly in Filipino.

Still, he said he was “holding them to their promise [to plow back to workrs their savings from tax payments]. Support a wage hike which remains as the best profit-sharing scheme, that will benefit those who made earnings possible, not some shareholder from a distant land.”

Meanwhile, Escudero noted that labor groups have presented data showing that for large firms that have racked up P1.1 trillion in annual profits, the cost of a P170 daily wage hike for their three million workers would account for about 14 percent of their profits.

“For the 1.8 million workers in small enterprises, the cost

of a wage increase is equivalent to 17 percent of their pay. This should be debunked by oppositors, with facts, and not with the old and tired scare tactics, without proof,” he said.

However,Escudero,concededthatifmanymicroenterprises, or those with less than 10 employees and assets not exceeding P3 million, will be distressed by legislated pay increase, “then we can craft the language that responds to their situation.”

Another study that has not been disproven is that if adjusted for inflation, minimum wages across 17 regions are worth less today than in July 1989, when the last legislated nationwide wage took effect, Escudero said.

While the NCR floor wage of P610 daily has been used as reference, the fact is it varies by region, by general type of work; that in one region there is one minimum wage that is pegged at P306 a day, he pointed out.

“This is already below the poverty threshold of the government. How can you live on such a tiny salary?” he asked. Butch Fernandez

A8

BusinessMirror

Wednesday, February 14, 2024 Republic of the Philippines

10

DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AND EMPLOYMENT Regional Office No. IV-A 4th Flr. Andenson Bldg. II, Brgy. Parian, Calamba City Telefax No.: (049) 545-7362

FURUKAWA ELECTRIC AUTOPARTS PHILIPPINES, INC. 113 East Main Ave., Lot 3-5, Phase IV, Laguna Technopark, Loma, City of Biñan, Laguna

February 14, 2024

NOTICE OF FILING OF APPLICATION/S FOR ALIEN EMPLOYMENT PERMIT/S (AEP/S)

NO.

ESTABLISHMENT

1

BO CHENG RUBBER PHILIPPINES INC. Phase 3, Block 5, Lot 3, Lima Technology Center, San Fernando, Malvar, Batangas

Basic Qualification:

Rubber Printing Manager

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering with minimum of 4 years experience in the field

Brief Job Description: Plan and organize production schedules

11

GLARION TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION Covelandia Road, Binakayan, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Salary Range: Php30,000 Php59,999

2

BROTHER INDUSTRIES (PHILIPPINES), INC. Lot 1-B-2, Phase 1-B, First Philippine Industrial Park, Ulango, City of Tanauan, Batangas

YAMADA, TEPPEI

Basic Qualification:

Parts Quality Control Manager

Japanese JLPT N2-N1 passer, strong background of ISO 19011:2018, international manufacturing audit, supply chain management, and logistics

Brief job description: Promote and control department KPI and able to grasp and evolve on technological advancement

Salary Range:

12

BROTHER INDUSTRIES (PHILIPPINES), INC. Lot 1-B-2, Phase 1-B, First Philippine Industrial Park, Ulango, City of Tanauan, Batangas

SHIMIZU, WATARU

Basic Qualification:

Purchasing Production Control General Manager

Japanese JLPT N2-N1 passer, strong background of ISO 19011:2018, international manufacturing audit, supply chain management, and logistics

Brief Job Description: Provide technical advice as well as expertise in the Department

GLARION TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION Covelandia Road, Binakayan, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

13

Php150,000 Php499,999 3

GLARION TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION Covelandia Road, Binakayan, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

14

GLARION TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION Covelandia Road, Binakayan, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Salary Range: Php150,000 Php499,999 4

CONTINENTAL AUTONOMOUS MOBILITY PHILIPPINES, INC. 16 Ring Road, Light Industry and Science Park II, La Mesa, City of Calamba, Laguna

5

CUTECH PROCESS SERVICES PHILIPPINES, INC. Unit 4C, 4th Floor, Maptan Building, Pallocan Kanluran, Batangas City (Capital), Batangas

6

CUTECH PROCESS SERVICES PHILIPPINES, INC. Unit 4C, 4th Floor, Maptan Building, Pallocan Kanluran, Batangas City (Capital), Batangas

7

CUTECH PROCESS SERVICES PHILIPPINES, INC. Unit 4C, 4th Floor, Maptan Building, Pallocan Kanluran, Batangas City (Capital), Batangas

8

CUTECH PROCESS SERVICES PHILIPPINES, INC. Unit 4C, 4th Floor, Maptan Building, Pallocan Kanluran, Batangas City (Capital), Batangas

9

CUTECH PROCESS SERVICES PHILIPPINES, INC. Unit 4C, 4th Floor, Maptan Building, Pallocan Kanluran, Batangas City (Capital), Batangas

MACHAYOVA, MARIANA

Basic Qualification:

Head of Plant Supply Chain Management

Knowledge of existing industry standards, processes and internal decisionmaking structures

Brief Job Description: Develop the manufacturing concept based on product architecture and requirements matching them to estate of the art production processes and technologies participate in the quotation team NDT Inspector Specialist

With 3 years diploma or Bachelor’s degree

Brief Job Description: Prepare and perform NDT job according to job request NAVACHAKARAMOORTHY, BALACHANDAR NDT Inspector Specialist

15

Covelandia Road, Binakayan, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

16

Php30,000 Php59,999 Basic Qualification: With 3 years diploma or Bachelor’s degree

Brief Job Description:

Salary Range:

Deliver approved reports to client via email or hard copy with transmittal

Php30,000 Php59,999

PITCHAIVEL, SASIKUMAR

Basic Qualification:

NDT Inspector Specialist

With 3 years diploma or Bachelor’s degree

Update and maintain all workrelated documents in office with accountability and traceability

Php30,000 Php59,999 Basic Qualification:

NDT Inspector Specialist

With 3 years diploma or Bachelor’s degree

Update and maintain all workrelated documents in office with accountability and traceability

Php30,000 Php59,999 Basic Qualification:

NDT Inspector Specialist

With 3 years diploma or Bachelor’s degree

Update and maintain all workrelated documents in office with accountability and traceability

GLARION TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION Covelandia Road, Binakayan, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

18

GLARION TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION Covelandia Road, Binakayan, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Salary Range:

SUGUMAR, PRASANTH

Brief Job Description:

Must be a college graduate; Possesses leadership skill; Must be fluent in speaking and writing English language

Salary Range: Php60,000 Php89,999

NANG NILAR OO

Basic Qualification:

Burmese Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese and Burmese language

Brief Job Description: Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Salary Range:

NI NI WIN

Basic Qualification:

Burmese Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese and Burmese language

Php30,000 Php59,999

Brief Job Description: Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Salary Range:

NILAR MOE

Basic Qualification:

Burmese Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese and Burmese language

Php30,000 Php59,999

Brief Job Description: Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Salary Range:

SAI AUNG PHYO

Basic Qualification:

Burmese Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese and Burmese language

Brief Job Description:

Salary Range:

Php30,000 Php59,999

Php30,000 - Php59,999

TUN TIN

Basic Qualification:

Burmese Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese and Burmese language

Brief Job Description:

Salary Range:

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Php30,000 Php59,999

YADANA MOE

Basic Qualification:

Burmese Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese and Burmese language

Brief Job Description: Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Salary Range:

ZAW LWIN OO

Basic Qualification:

Burmese Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese and Burmese language

Php30,000 Php59,999

Brief Job Description: Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Salary Range:

YONO KRISNO

Basic Qualification:

Indonesian Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese and Indonesian language

Php30,000 Php59,999

Salary Range:

RAMESH MARY, JOSEPH

Brief Job Description:

GLARION TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION Covelandia Road, Binakayan, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Salary Range:

17

Brief Job Description:

GLARION TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION

Php150,000 Php499,999 Basic Qualification:

Engineering Assistant Section Manager

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Salary Range:

JEYSANKAR, DHILEEBAN

Basic Qualification:

Implement and manage all maintenance functions, including but not limited to preventive, corrective and emergency maintenance on all injection molding equipment and lamination machine

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

SHI, XIAOLONG

HOSOYA, TAKURO

Brief Job Description:

Notice is hereby given that the following companies/employers have filed with this Regional Office application/s for Alien Employment Permit/s:

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL, POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Salary Range: Php30,000 Php59,999

19

GLARION TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION Covelandia Road, Binakayan, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Brief Job Description: Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Salary Range:

VUONG, THI HIEN

Basic Qualification:

Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese and Vietnamese language

Php30,000 Php59,999

Brief Job Description: Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Salary Range: Php30,000 Php59,999

TheWorld

Editor: Angel R. Calso

Wednesday, February 14, 2024

A9

Biden says ‘key elements’ of Gaza deal tabled as he meets with Jordan’s king

By Colleen Long & Zeke Miller

The Associated Press

W

ASHINGTON—Declaring that “every innocent life lost in Gaza is a tragedy,” President Joe Biden welcomed Jordan’s King Abdullah II to the White House Monday for talks on how to end the months-long war and plan for what comes afterward.

The meeting with Abdullah comes as Biden and his aides are working to broker another pause in Israel’s war against Hamas in order to send humanitarian aid and supplies into the region and get hostages out. The White House faces growing criticism from Arab Americans over the administration’s continued support for Israel in the face of rising casualties in Gaza since Hamas launched its October 7 attack on Israel.

“The key elements of the deal are on the table,” Biden said alongside the king, though “there are gaps that remain.” He said the US would do “everything possible” to make an agreement happen: a pause to fighting for at least six weeks and the release of the remaining hostages held by Hamas.

A senior US administration official said Sunday that after weeks of shuttle diplomacy and phone conversations, a framework was essentially in place for a deal. The official said Israeli military pressure on Hamas in Khan Younis over the last several week s has helped bring the militant group closer to accepting an agreement.

Abdullah said Biden’s leadership was “key to addressing this conflict,” as he raised the plight of the tens of thousands of civilians killed and wounded in the fighting.

“We need a lasting cease-fire now,” the king said. “ This war must end.”

Jordan and other Arab states have been highly critical of Israel’s actions and have eschewed public support for long-term planning over what happens next, arguing that the fighting must end before such discussions can begin. They have been demanding a cease-fire since mid-October as civilian casualties began to skyrocket.

Biden’s stance marks a subtle but notable break for the president, who has continued to oppose a permanent cease-fire. His administration

JORDAN’S King Abdullah II speaks as President Joe Biden listens in the Cross Hall of the White House on Monday, February 12, 2024, in Washington. AP/ANDREW HARNIK has insisted that Hamas not retain political or military control over Gaza after the war—a key objective of the Israeli operation to prevent a repeat of the October 7 attack that killed more than 1,200 Israelis and saw about 250 taken hostage.

Israel’s offensive has killed more than 28,000 Palestinians in the territory, displaced over 80 percent of the population and set off a massive humanitarian crisis. Gaza’s Health Ministry, which does not distinguish between combatants and civilians, has said the majority of those killed are women and children. Israel claims to have killed about 10,000 Hamas fighters but has not provided evidence.

Biden repeated his warning that Israel must not launch a full-scale attack on Rafah, the last major holdout of Hamas where more than 1.3 million people are sheltering unless it devises plans to safeguard the civilians there from harm’s way. Earlier Monday, Nationa l Security Council spokesman John Kirby acknowledged there were “ legitimate military targets” for Israel in Rafah, but said the Israelis must ensure their operations are designed to protect the lives of innocent civilians. Officials have said the US is not sure there is a feasible plan to relocate civilians out of Rafah to allow military operations to take place.

Biden, who has held out hope for a two-state solution to the IsraeliPalestinian conflict, added that he and the king discussed the need for the Palestinian Authority, which

has some control over parts of the West Bank, to “urgently reform” to be ready to assume some authorities in Gaza if Hamas is removed from power. “They must prepare to build a state that accepts peace, does not harbor terrorist groups like Hamas and Islamic Jihad,” Biden said.

Abdullah insisted that “Separation of the West Bank and Gaza cannot be accepted.”

Earlier Monday, Biden, joined by his wife, Jill, welcomed the king, Queen Rania, and crown prince Hussein at the White House before the leaders met.

It was the first meeting between the allies since three American troops were killed last month in a drone strike against a US base in Jordan. Biden blamed Iran-backed militias for the deaths, the first for the US after months of strikes by such groups against American forces across the Middle East since the start of the Israel-Hamas war.

Biden had planned to visit Jordan during his trip to Israel in October shortly after the October 7 attack by Hamas, but the trip was scrapped.

On his way home from Israel, Biden announced he’d helped broker the first deal to pause fighting temporarily and to open the crossing in Rafah to humanitarian aid.

In the months since, members of his administration have made repeated trips to the region to engage with leaders there.

AP writers Seung Min Kim and Darlene Superville contributed to this report.

Police use tear gas on Indian farmers marching to New Delhi to demand crop price guarantees

N

EW DELHI—Indian police on Tuesday used tear gas and detained some farmers who tried to break barricades blocking their way to New Delhi to demand guaranteed crop prices in a repeat of 2021 protests, when they camped on the capital’s outskirts for more than a year.

Police dropped tear gas canisters on the protesting farmers from a drone at one of the border points that leads to New Delhi, where tens of thousands of farmers are headed on tractors and trucks.

Pol ice have sea led mu lt iple entry points into the capital with barriers of barbed wire, spikes and cement blocks. The government has banned large gatherings in the capital and suspended Internet service in some districts of neighboring Haryana state to prevent communication among the protesters.

The demonstration comes more than two years after Prime Minister Narendra Modi withdrew controversial agriculture laws that had triggered the earlier protests, in which tens of thousands of farmers camped outside the capital through a harsh winter and a devastating Covid-19 surge.

POLICE guard a major highway at Singhu near New Delhi to stop thousands of protesting farmers from entering the capital on Tuesday, February 13, 2024. Farmers, who began their march from northern Haryana and Punjab states, are asking for a guaranteed minimum support price for all farm produce. AP/MANISH SWARUP The farmers, who began their march in northern Haryana and Punjab states, are asking for a g u a ra nteed m i n i mu m suppor t price for all farm produce. The government protects agricultural producers against any sharp fall in farm prices by announcing a minimum purchase price for certain essential crops at the beginning of the sowing season, taking into account the cost of production.

Farmers are also pressing the government to meet its promise to double their income.

The withdrawal of the agricultural laws in November 2021 was seen as a major retreat by the Modi government. The government at

that time said it would set up a panel of farmers and government officials to find ways to ensure support prices for all farm produce.

Multiple meetings since then have made no progress.

The march comes just months before a national election in which Modi is widely expected to win a third term. “ We do not want to break any barricades. We want a resolution of our issues through dialogue.

But if they [the government] do nothing, then what w ill we do?

It is our compu lsion,” Sar wan Singh Pandher, a leader of one of the farmer groups, told reporters Tuesday. AP

BusinessMirror

A10 A6 Wednesday, February 14, 2024

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

7 PRIME TECH, INC. 10/f Ewestpod, Eton Westend Square, Yakal St. Cor. Don Chino Roces Ave., San Antonio, City Of Makati

RATNA INDAH OXTAVIANA Indonesian Speaking Customer Service Officer 1.

Brief Job Description: Manage large amount of calls, and handle customer concerns.

TRI FALDAN RAMADHAN Indonesian Speaking Customer Service Officer 2.

Brief Job Description: Manage large amount of calls, and handle customer concerns.

VENIA FRITI WIPA Indonesian Speaking Customer Service Officer 3.

Brief Job Description: Manage large amount of calls, and handle customer concerns.

VIENA OCTAVIANA Indonesian Speaking Customer Service Officer 4.

Brief Job Description: Manage large amount of calls, and handle customer concerns.

Basic Qualification: Excellent in reading, writing and speaking in a foreign language.

LIN, JIADA Pricing Analyst (Freight Forwarding) 11.

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

5.

Brief Job Description: Partner-focused knowledge and relationships. You will become proficient in the resale programs for partners through knowledge of the partners products & programs.

6.

Brief Job Description: Provide customer service to clients.

7.

Brief Job Description: Provide customer service to clients.

Basic Qualification: In-depth knowledge of statistical methods and data analysis. Ability to keep abreast of industry trends and develop dynamic pricing tools.

Advanced ability to present pricing analysis reports to relevant stakeholders.

Excellent analytical and communication skills.

Basic Qualification: Excellent in reading, writing and speaking in a foreign language.

WANG, JUNCHAO Pricing Analyst (Freight Forwarding) 12.

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

Brief Job Description: Pricing analysts help businesses determine competitive pricing strategies to gain market share and achieve revenue goals. They analyze data from multiple sources, develop complex pricing models, and collaborate with sales and marketing teams to develop sales strategies.

Basic Qualification: Excellent in reading, writing and speaking in a foreign language.

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

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 WU, SHAOJIE Pricing Analyst (Freight Forwarding)

Basic Qualification: Graduate of a college degree, fluency in Japanese and English languages (verbal and written), and a minimum of 3 years of work experience.

13.

Brief Job Description: Pricing analysts help businesses determine competitive pricing strategies to gain market share and achieve revenue goals. They analyze data from multiple sources, develop complex pricing models, and collaborate with sales and marketing teams to develop sales strategies.

8.

Brief Job Description: Provide customer service to clients.

Basic Qualification: Any nationality who can speak and write Chinese language fluently. Detailoriented and has the ability to multi-task. Preferably 6 months to 1-year customer service work experience.

WU, SHUNDE Pricing Analyst (Freight Forwarding) 14.

Brief Job Description: Pricing analysts help businesses determine competitive pricing strategies to gain market share and achieve revenue goals. They analyze data from multiple sources, develop complex pricing models, and collaborate with sales and marketing teams to develop sales strategies.

Basic Qualification: Any nationality who can speak and write Chinese language fluently. Detailoriented and has the ability to multi-task. Preferably 6 months to 1-year customer service work experience.

Brief Job Description: Provide customer service to clients.

XU, ZILIANG Pricing Analyst (Freight Forwarding) 15.

ZHOU, QINGHE Pricing Analyst (Freight Forwarding)

10.

Brief Job Description: Pricing analysts help businesses determine competitive pricing strategies to gain market share and achieve revenue goals. They analyze data from multiple sources, develop complex pricing models, and collaborate with sales and marketing teams to develop sales strategies.

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

Brief Job Description: Pricing analysts help businesses determine competitive pricing strategies to gain market share and achieve revenue goals. They analyze data from multiple sources, develop complex pricing models, and collaborate with sales and marketing teams to develop sales strategies.

Basic Qualification: In-depth knowledge of statistical methods and data analysis. Ability to keep abreast of industry trends and develop dynamic pricing tools.

Advanced ability to present pricing analysis reports to relevant stakeholders.

Excellent analytical and communication skills.

Brief Job Description: A procurement specialist facilitates purchases from outside suppliers to keep a business running. Their primary responsibilities include researching key suppliers, negotiating purchase agreements, and ensuring all products and materials meet company standards.

LUU TU TRINH Procurement Specialist

20.

Brief Job Description: A procurement specialist facilitates purchase from outside suppliers to keep a business running. Their primary responsibilities include researching key suppliers, negotiating purchase agreements, and ensuring all products and materials meet company standard.

XIONG, FANGPING Procurement Specialist

21.

Brief Job Description: A procurement specialist facilitates purchases from outside suppliers to keep a business running. Their primary responsibilities include researching key suppliers, negotiating purchase agreements, and ensuring all products and materials meet company standards.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Strong verbal and written communication skills. The ability to plan, delegate and evaluate progress toward goals is necessary for managing these projects.

Must have strong problemsolving skills.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Strong verbal and written communication skills. The ability to plan, delegate and evaluate progress toward goals is necessary for managing these projects.

Must have strong problemsolving skills.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Strong verbal and written communication skills. The ability to plan, delegate and evaluate progress toward goals is necessary for managing these projects.

Must have strong problemsolving skills.

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

ANOC99 CORPORATION 5/f To 10/f Ayala Malls Manila Bay Building D., Macapagal Blvd. Cor. Aseana Street, Tambo, City Of Parañaque

LI, EN Chinese Customer Service Representative 22.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries.

DINH, THI HONG DIEP Vietnamese Customer Service Representative 23.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries.

NGUYEN VAN NON Vietnamese Customer Service Representative 24.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries.

PHAN THI THANH CHAU Vietnamese Customer Service Representative 25.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries.

TRUONG, HA NGAN Vietnamese Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries.

VI, THI CUONG Vietnamese Customer Service Representative 27.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries.

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

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

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

Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read and write in Chinese and Vietnamese languages.

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

Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read and write in Chinese and Vietnamese languages.

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

Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read and write in Chinese and Vietnamese languages.

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

Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read and write in Chinese and Vietnamese languages.

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

Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read and write in Chinese and Vietnamese languages.

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

ARISE AND GAIN MERCHANDISE CORP. 65, Road 20, Bahay Toro, Quezon City

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

FU, JIANJUN Pricing Analyst (Freight Forwarding)

19.

26.

Basic Qualification: Any nationality who can speak and write Chinese language fluently. Detailoriented and has the ability to multi-task. Preferably 6 months to 1-year customer service work experience.

Basic Qualification: In-depth knowledge of statistical methods and data analysis. Ability to keep abreast of industry trends and develop dynamic pricing tools.

Advanced ability to present pricing analysis reports to relevant stakeholders.

Excellent analytical and communication skills.

Brief Job Description: Pricing analysts help businesses determine competitive pricing strategies to gain market share and achieve revenue goals. They analyze data from multiple sources, develop complex pricing models, and collaborate with sales and marketing teams to develop sales strategies.

Basic Qualification: In-depth knowledge of statistical methods and data analysis. Ability to keep abreast of industry trends and develop dynamic pricing tools.

Advanced ability to present pricing analysis reports to relevant stakeholders.

Excellent analytical and communication skills.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION KE, JIAYU Procurement Specialist

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

Basic Qualification: Any nationality who can speak and write Chinese language fluently. Detailoriented and has the ability to multi-task. Preferably 6 months to 1-year customer service work experience.

AM-PRO IMPORTS MARKETING CORP. 16e Residenza Suites, 429 Shaw Blvd., Addition Hills, City Of Mandaluyong

Basic Qualification: In-depth knowledge of statistical methods and data analysis. Ability to keep abreast of industry trends and develop dynamic pricing tools.

Advanced ability to present pricing analysis reports to relevant stakeholders.

Excellent analytical and communication skills.

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

16.

9.

No.

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

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

WIN AUNG Customer Service Representative (Chinese Speaking)

Basic Qualification: In-depth knowledge of statistical methods and data analysis. Ability to keep abreast of industry trends and develop dynamic pricing tools.

Advanced ability to present pricing analysis reports to relevant stakeholders.

Excellent analytical and communication skills.

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

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

TRINH THI LY Customer Service Representative (Chinese Speaking)

Basic Qualification: In-depth knowledge of statistical methods and data analysis. Ability to keep abreast of industry trends and develop dynamic pricing tools.

Advanced ability to present pricing analysis reports to relevant stakeholders.

Excellent analytical and communication skills.

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

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

NANN LIN HTET HTET NGE Customer Service Representative (Chinese Speaking)

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

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

ALTERA KARNA BUSINESS CORP. 5th, 6th, 7th Flrs. Eighty-one Newport Blvd., Newport City St., Barangay 183, Pasay City

HO, THI VAN ANH Customer Service Representative (Chinese Speaking)

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

Basic Qualification: Excellent in reading, writing and speaking in a foreign language.

ACCENTURE, INC. 7f Robinsons Cybergate Tower 1, Pioneer St., Barangka Ilaya, City Of Mandaluyong

LI, LINRUI Ecosyst Source Sales Enable Senior Analyst

Brief Job Description: Pricing analysts help businesses determine competitive pricing strategies to gain market share and achieve revenue goals. They analyze data from multiple sources, develop complex pricing models, and collaborate with sales and marketing teams to develop sales strategies.

www.businessmirror.com.ph

CAI, ZHIMING Procurement Specialist

17.

Brief Job Description: A procurement specialist facilitates purchases from outside suppliers to keep a business running. Their primary responsibilities include researching key suppliers, negotiating purchase agreements, and ensuring all products and materials meet company standards.

JIANG, XIAOWEN Procurement Specialist

18.

Brief Job Description: A procurement specialist facilitates purchases from outside suppliers to keep a business running. Their primary responsibilities include researching key suppliers, negotiating purchase agreements, and ensuring all products and materials meet company standards.

Basic Qualification: Strong verbal and written communication skills. The ability to plan, delegate and evaluate progress toward goals is necessary for managing these projects.

Must have strong problemsolving skills.

SHI, HUIYING Dynamic Functional Consultant 28.

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

Basic Qualification: Strong verbal and written communication skills. The ability to plan, delegate and evaluate progress toward goals is necessary for managing these projects.

Must have strong problemsolving skills.

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

Brief Job Description: Finds the right business solution for an organization.

Helps an organization implement a new business solution or tweak the existing solution.

Basic Qualification: Should have analytical skills, communication skills, and creativeness. Experience in related field is an edge.

Must have any bachelor’s degree like business management or computer science.

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

WEI, HONGJIAN Dynamic Functional Consultant 29.

Brief Job Description: Finds the right business solution for an organization.

Helps an organization implement a new business solution or tweak the existing solution.

Basic Qualification: Should have analytical skills, communication skills, and creativeness. Experience in related field is an edge.

Must have any bachelor’s degree like business management or computer science.

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

BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

YANG, DONGSHENG Dynamic Functional Consultant 30.

Brief Job Description: Finds the right business solution for an organization.

Helps an organization implement a new business solution or tweak the existing solution.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Should have analytical skills, communication skills, and creativeness. Experience in related field is an edge.

Must have any bachelor’s degree like business management or computer science.

No.

LIU, SHUAIJUN IT Operation Director 41.

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

YANG, YUANXUAN Dynamic Functional Consultant 31.

Brief Job Description: Finds the right business solution for an organization.

Helps an organization implement a new business solution or tweak the existing solution.

Basic Qualification: Should have analytical skills, communication skills, and creativeness. Experience in related field is an edge.

Must have any bachelor’s degree like business management or computer science.

ZHANG, YECHI Dynamic Functional Consultant 32.

Brief Job Description: Finds the right business solution for an organization.

Helps an organization implement a new business solution or tweak the existing solution.

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

ZHOU, ZHILING Dynamic Functional Consultant 33.

Brief Job Description: Finds the right business solution for an organization.

Helps an organization implement a new business solution or tweak the existing solution.

Basic Qualification: Should have analytical skills, communication skills, and creativeness. Experience in related field is an edge.

Must have any bachelor’s degree like business management or computer science.

WANG, HAIFANG Mandarin Speaking IT Support Specialist 42.

ZOU, ZHONGLIN Dynamic Functional Consultant 34.

Brief Job Description: Finds the right business solution for an organization.

Helps an organization implement a new business solution or tweak the existing solution.

Brief Job Description: Review and solve computer network and hardware problems for the organization.

CHENG, YIWEI Mandarin Speaking Vendor Master Data Associate

43.

Brief Job Description: Ensures the completeness, accuracy, timeliness and quality data such as supplier, employee and other critical information enabling finance activities work with customer, suppliers and vendor masters’ data objects, as well as other business functions and their associated data requirements.

LI, JINGQIU Monogram General Operator 35.

Brief Job Description: A person who partakes for the design conceptualization up to the actual implementation of the designs to various garments using simple to latest and critical sewing machinery.

CHEN, QIAOYU General Trade Marketing Specialist Consultant 44.

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

WU, PEIWEI Monogram General Operator 36.

Brief Job Description: A person who partakes for the design conceptualization up to the actual implementation of the designs to various garments using simple to latest and critical sewing machinery.

HUANG, JIANQUN General Trade Marketing Specialist Consultant 45.

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

LUO, ZHIWEI General Trade Marketing Specialist Consultant 46.

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

37.

Brief Job Description: Ensure products meet established quality standards and industry benchmarks. They monitor processes and inspect produced goods and services. They propose measures and process improvements to enhance operations, ensure reliability of systems, and minimize downtime, errors, and defects.

47.

Brief Job Description: Responsible in telemarketing effort to liaise with guests’ requests and assists with casino operations function.

CHOI, DAESANG Sales Manager, Player Development 39.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for searching opportunities in new or existing VIP’s accounts, expanding business in a way that ensures profitability for Solaire Resort and Casino.

Brief Job Description: Provides assistance to customers during emergency calls and informational services.

LE ROUX, VINCENT JEAN HENRI Finance And Admin Manager

Basic Qualification: At least 6 months customer service associate experience, and basic to advance MS application skills.

BRIGHT LUME IT SOLUTIONS INC. Unit 202 Erisha Condominium, 1142 P Ocampo Street, Barangay 757, Santa Ana, City Of Manila

Brief Job Description: Responsible for collaborating with project managers to develop detailed project plans, including timelines, resource requirements, and budgets.

HEDDI, YOUSSEF ELIE Trackworks Manager 52.

Basic Qualification: Can work as an independent consultant to provide marketing expertise to clients. Can research industries, markets, demographics, trends, sales results, and other data related to the clients’ products or services.

Basic Qualification: Can work as an independent consultant to provide marketing expertise to clients. Can research industries, markets, demographics, trends, sales results, and other data related to the clients’ products or services.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for overseeing and managing all aspects of track maintenance and infrastructure within the logistics department.

Basic Qualification: Can work as an independent consultant to provide marketing expertise to clients. Can research industries, markets, demographics, trends, sales results, and other data related to the clients’ products or services.

Basic Qualification: Can work as an independent consultant to provide marketing expertise to clients. Can research industries, markets, demographics, trends, sales results, and other data related to the clients’ products or services.

Basic Qualification: Can work as an independent consultant to provide marketing expertise to clients. Can research industries, markets, demographics, trends, sales results, and other data related to the clients’ products or services.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for optimizing financial and administrative processes within our logistics operations. Work closely with the company’s finance and administrative teams to drive efficiency, compliance, and cost-effectiveness while ensuring smooth day-to-day operations.

BERTRAND, PAUL LOUIS OCS Specialist 50.

Brief Job Description: Overseeing and optimizing day-to-day operations to ensure efficiency, safety, and successful project delivery.

Basic Qualification: College graduate. With at least 5 years of work experience in railway construction projects.

Proficient in English language.

CHEN, CHAOYI General Business Specialist 53.

Brief Job Description: Identifying profitable business, negotiating and closing business deals.

HE, YANLING General Business Specialist Brief Job Description: Identifying profitable business, negotiating and closing business deals.

SAMESHIMA, KANAME General Business Specialist 55.

Brief Job Description: Identifying profitable business, negotiating and closing business deals.

ZHANG, DAN General Business Specialist 56.

57.

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

Basic Qualification: 5-10 years of experience in railway construction projects, and applicants with advanced written and verbal skills in French and/ or Japanese language are prioritized.

Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999 Basic Qualification: 5-10 years of experience in railway construction projects, and applicants with advanced written and verbal skills in French and/ or Japanese language are prioritized.

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

Brief Job Description: Identifying profitable business, negotiating and closing business deals.

YANG, MINGKUN Project Manager Brief Job Description: Planning and monitoring a project.

Basic Qualification: College graduate, fluent in Mandarin and English languages, and preferably 6 months to 1 year work experience in the same field.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate, fluent in Mandarin and English languages, and preferably 6 months to 1 year work experience in the same field.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate, fluent in Mandarin and English languages, and preferably 6 months to 1 year work experience in the same field.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate, fluent in Mandarin and English languages, and preferably 6 months to 1 year work experience in the same field.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate, fluent in Mandarin and English languages, and preferably 6 months to 1 year work experience in the same field.

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

CORE-X DESIGN INC. 3/f Iacademy Plaza, 324 Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati EDY SYAHPUTRA Indonesian Language - Support Supervisor 58.

Brief Job Description: Assist in the planning & administration of the organization’s daily operation. Providing information, assistance & support to customers. Assist with the preparation of reports. Escalating complex issues to management.

CAO, HUILIANG Mandarin Language - Support Officer 59.

Brief Job Description: Assist in the planning & administration of the organization’s daily operation. Providing information, assistance & support to customers. Assist with the preparation of reports. Escalating complex issues to management.

WANG, XIN Mandarin Language - Support Officer 60.

Brief Job Description: Assist in the planning & administration of the organization’s daily operation. Providing information, assistance & support to customers. Assist with the preparation of reports. Escalating complex issues to management.

Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree holder, must fluently speak and write in Mandarin language and can work under pressure.

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

Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree holder, must fluently speak and write in Mandarin language and can work under pressure.

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

Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree holder, must fluently speak and write in Mandarin language and can work under pressure.

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

ETRANSS REMITTANCE INTERNATIONAL CORP. G/f Jx Tower Block 2 Lot 17 Fuentes Cor. San Pedro Street, Aseana, Tambo, City Of Parañaque

JIN, QUAN Fraud Examiner Supervisor 61.

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

Basic Qualification: 5-10 years of experience in railway construction projects, applicants with advanced written and verbal skills in French and/ or Japanese language are prioritized and advance degree in the field of construction or similar.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

COMMSEC INC. House No. 2259, Aurora Blvd. St., Barangay 148, Pasay City

54.

COLAS RAIL PHILIPPINES, INC. Unit 708 7/f Tower One & Exchange Plaza, Ayala Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati

Salary Range: Php 90,000 - Php 149,999

Salary Range: Php 90,000 - Php 149,999

51.

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

BOSCH SERVICE SOLUTIONS, INC. 23rd Flr W Fifth Ave. Cor., 32nd St. Bonifacio Global City, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

40.

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

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

49.

KWON, HYEOKJUNG Associate

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

WANG, HAOQI General Trade Marketing Specialist Consultant

Basic Qualification: Proven professional experience.

Basic Qualification: 10 years of experience as senior manager in VIP operations in casino.

TSENG, JYH-GANG Senior OCS Specialist

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

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

48.

38.

Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree with experience in business management, finance computer software, marketing, sales or related field. Fluent in both written and verbal English and Chinese-Mandarin languages.

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

BLOOMBERRY RESORTS AND HOTELS INC. Solaire Resort And Casino, 1 Asean Avenue, Entertainment City, Tambo, City Of Parañaque

YEH, LIN-CHEN Agent, Casino Services

Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree with experience in business management, finance computer software, marketing, sales or related field. Fluent in both written and verbal English and Chinese-Mandarin languages.

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

SHI, YUANZHEN General Trade Marketing Specialist Consultant Basic Qualification: Outstanding problemsolving and decisionmaking skills. Excellent verbal and writing skills.

Strong analytical and organizational skills.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

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

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

ABHOL, NEERAJ Quality Assurance Specialist

No.

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

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

Basic Qualification: Experience as monogram general operator is an edge. Solid knowledge of image editing and digital sketching software, like Photoshop, In design and Adobe Illustrator. Ability to collaborate and meet deadlines.

Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree with experience in business management, finance computer software, marketing, sales or related field. Fluent in both written and verbal English and Chinese-Mandarin languages.

C’EST LA VIE EVENT MANAGEMENT INC. 230, Narra Street, Marikina Heights, City Of Marikina

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Experience as monogram general operator is an edge. Solid knowledge of image editing and digital sketching software, like Photoshop, In design and Adobe Illustrator. Ability to collaborate and meet deadlines.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

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

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Should have analytical skills, communication skills, and creativeness. Experience in related field is an edge.

Must have any bachelor’s degree like business management or computer science.

Brief Job Description: Build and lead a team of IT operations and service management staff, create the IT strategy and roadmap, effectively defining and delivering on new sops, process improvements, and projects.

A11

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

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

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Should have analytical skills, communication skills, and creativeness. Experience in related field is an edge.

Must have any bachelor’s degree like business management or computer science.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Wednesday, February 14, 2024

Brief Job Description: Responsible for conducting thorough investigations into remittance fraud. They collect and analyze digital evidence including computer logs, network traffic and electronic communication records.

LIU, CHONGYANG Fraud Examiner Supervisor 62.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for conducting thorough investigations into remittance fraud. They collect and analyze digital evidence including computer logs, network traffic and electronic communication records.

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin and English languages both in written and verbal. With working knowledge in the field of finance and virtual currency exchange.

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

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin and English languages both in written and verbal. With working knowledge in the field of finance and virtual currency exchange.

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

BusinessMirror

A12 A6 Wednesday, February 14, 2024

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION MAO, GUANGYUAN Multilingual IT Customer Support Specialist

63.

Brief Job Description: Respond to customer queries in a timely and accurate way, via phone, email or chat. Identify customer needs and help customers use specific features and analyze and report product malfunctions.

QIAN, KUN Multilingual IT Customer Support Specialist 64.

Brief Job Description: Respond to customer queries in a timely and accurate way, via phone, email or chat. Identify customer needs and help customers use specific features and analyze and report product malfunctions.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin and English languages both in written and verbal. With working knowledge in the field of finance and virtual currency exchange.

No.

75.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin and English languages both in written and verbal. With working knowledge in the field of finance and virtual currency exchange.

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

BISWAS, RAHUL Assistant Vice President - Solution Architect/Program Manager 65.

Brief Job Description: Carry out process diagnostics for various client processes of EXL in Healthcare domain. Determine pain points and areas of improvement opportunities in processes.

SINGH, SHILPY Lead Assistant Manager - Operations 66.

Brief Job Description: Support and mentor teams by providing assistance and guidance. Assist the Assistant Manager of Operations on key projects of the department and its operations and clients. Audit and evaluate the production and functions of the intake and clinical/medical staff.

DUONG, THI NGOC HUYEN Customer Service Representative 76.

67.

Brief Job Description: Overseeing the day-to-day operations of the office, including managing office supplies, equipment, and facilities.

XU, GUOMENG Operations Supervisor

68.

Brief Job Description: Supervising and leading a team of operations staff, including assigning tasks, providing guidance, and conducting performance evaluations.

Basic Qualification: College graduate. With at least 5 years of management experience in the call center industry.

With strong verbal and written communication skills.

69.

Brief Job Description: To handle coordination and manage all documentation related matters between Chinese accounts and other overseas principal under Sino crew maritime services co., ltd and local personnel. To represent the company during interactions with Chinese market/clients/ partners.

70.

Brief Job Description: Finding and developing new markets and improving sales. Attending conferences, meetings, and industry events. Developing quotes and proposals for clients.

77.

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

GIANG, THI TUNG Customer Service Representative 78.

71.

Brief Job Description: Assists with additional projects in site such as photography shoots, advertising and digital marketing efforts, and manage the productions and delivery of proposals.

WEN, JING Marketing Specialist 72.

Brief Job Description: Assists with additional projects in site such as photography shoots, advertising and digital marketing efforts, and manage the productions and delivery of proposals.

XI, ZIHANG Marketing Specialist 73.

Brief Job Description: Assists with additional projects in site such as photography shoots, advertising and digital marketing efforts, and manage the productions and delivery of proposals.

YAN, HE Marketing Specialist 74.

Brief Job Description: Assists with additional projects in site such as photography shoots, advertising and digital marketing efforts, and manage the productions and delivery of proposals.

Brief Job Description: Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

HIEN THI DIEU Customer Service Representative 79.

Brief Job Description: Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

NGUYEN, THI HUONG Customer Service Representative 80.

Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in relevant field, or equivalent work experience.

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

Basic Qualification: Advance level of proficiency in Chinese and English languages (written & verbal). Graduate of any 4 yr. course, knowledgeable in computer application, minimum 3 years of experience in managerial role.

Brief Job Description: Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

PHAM THI HUE Customer Service Representative 81.

Brief Job Description: Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

PHAM, HUNG DUNG Customer Service Representative 82.

Brief Job Description: Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

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

Basic Qualification: College graduate, with good moral character and excellent verbal and written communications skills in Mandarin and English languages. Liasing with colleagues to develop sales and marketing strategies.

Basic Qualification: College graduate and fluent in speaking in Mandarin and English languages, commercial awareness partnered with a creative mind, well-organized and detail oriented.

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

Basic Qualification: College graduate and fluent in speaking in Mandarin and English languages, commercial awareness partnered with a creative mind, well-organized and detail oriented.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate and fluent in speaking in Mandarin and English languages, commercial awareness partnered with a creative mind, well-organized and detail oriented.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate and fluent in speaking in Mandarin and English languages, commercial awareness partnered with a creative mind, well-organized and detail oriented.

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

Basic Qualification: College graduate and fluent in speaking in Mandarin and English languages, commercial awareness partnered with a creative mind, well-organized and detail oriented.

No.

GUO, XIAOPIN Chinese Project Supervisor 88.

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

Basic Qualification: College graduate/level, preferably with customer service or sales experience, and fluent in Mandarin and basic English languages.

89.

PHUNG NGOC KY Customer Service Representative 83.

Brief Job Description: Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

VUONG, HAO HUY Customer Service Representative 84.

Brief Job Description: Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate/level, preferably with customer service or sales experience, and fluent in Mandarin and basic English languages.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate/level, preferably with customer service or sales experience, and fluent in Mandarin and basic English languages.

85.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for ensuring applications for the issuance of certificates made by customers and meet the company’s strict security and guidelines.

92.

93.

94.

95.

96.

97.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate/level, preferably with customer service or sales experience, and fluent in Mandarin and basic English languages.

98.

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

GMO GLOBALSIGN INC. Units 7&8, 23/f Zuellig Bldg., Makati Ave. Cor. Paseo De Roxas, Urdaneta, City Of Makati ZHANG, QIAN Multilingual Vetting Specialist (Mandarin)

91.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate/level, preferably with customer service or sales experience, and fluent in Mandarin and basic English languages.

99.

Basic Qualification: Can communicate in English and Mandarin languages, and with background in vetting and atlas platform.

Salary Range: Php 90,000 - Php 149,999

100.

GOODYIELDS SERVICES INC. Unit Ug-08 Ug/f Cityland 10 Tower 2, 154 H.v. Dela Costa Cor. Valero Sts., Bel-air, City Of Makati

YANG, CHENGKE Mandarin Coordinator 86.

Brief Job Description: Mandarin Coordinator typically works under a Mandarin manager to maintain office equipment, physical and telecommunications systems for a single building.

Basic Qualification: College Graduate. Computer proficiency. Fluent in Mandarin, Cantonese and Taiwanese languages.

Excellent interpersonal and communications skills.

At least 1 year experience related to the job applying for.

Brief Job Description: Keeping records of customer interactions, transactions, comments and complaints.

BUI VAN THANH Customer Service Representative - Vietnamese Speaking Brief Job Description: Provide customer care, when necessary, keep updated and knowledgeable of accounts.

DO, THANH BAO Customer Service Representative - Vietnamese Speaking Brief Job Description: Provide customer care, when necessary, keep updated and knowledgeable of accounts.

HA VAN CUONG Customer Service Representative - Vietnamese Speaking

YE, YONGBAO Product Head

87.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for the product planning and execution throughout the product lifecycle, including managing the marketing strategies, gathering and prioritizing product and customer requirements, defining the product vision and working closely with the engineering, sales and support team to ensure revenue and customer satisfaction goals are met.

Basic Qualification: College graduate. With previous work experience in delivering finely tuned product, marketing strategies and strong experience in a dynamic product management role.

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

Basic Qualification: Expert in language translation from Mandarin to English language.

Can speak and write in Mandarin and English languages fluently. At least 1-2 years of working experience as translator.

Basic Qualification: Graduate of a 4-year course degree.

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

Basic Qualification: Graduate of a 4-year course degree.

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

Basic Qualification: Graduate of a 4-year course degree.

Brief Job Description: Provide customer care, when necessary, keep updated and knowledgeable of accounts.

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

HOANG THAI SON Customer Service Representative - Vietnamese Speaking

Basic Qualification: Fluent in speaking in Vietnamese language.

Brief Job Description: Deferring to management in instances of uncertainty.

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

LE THANH GIANG Customer Service Representative - Vietnamese Speaking

Basic Qualification: Fluent in speaking in Vietnamese language.

Brief Job Description: Deferring to management in instances of uncertainty.

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

NGUYEN NGOC BAO THI Customer Service Representative - Vietnamese Speaking Brief Job Description: Provide customer care, when necessary, keep updated and knowledgeable of accounts.

NGUYEN THI KIEU Customer Service Representative - Vietnamese Speaking Brief Job Description: Provide customer care, when necessary, keep updated and knowledgeable of accounts.

NGUYEN, THI MONG THO Customer Service Representative - Vietnamese Speaking Brief Job Description: Provide customer care, when necessary, keep updated and knowledgeable of accounts.

NGUYEN, VAN MUOI Customer Service Representative - Vietnamese Speaking Brief Job Description: Provide customer care when necessary. Keep updated knowledge of ace, policies and products.

TRUONG, DUC DUY Customer Service Representative - Vietnamese Speaking Brief Job Description: Provide customer care, when necessary, keep updated and knowledgeable of accounts.

VO, TIEN DUNG Customer Service Representative - Vietnamese Speaking Brief Job Description: Provide customer care, when necessary, keep updated and knowledgeable of accounts.

Basic Qualification: Graduate of a 4-year course degree.

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

Basic Qualification: Graduate of a 4-year course degree.

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

Basic Qualification: Graduate of a 4-year course degree.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: A bachelor’s degree in a field like communication and marketing and several years of work experience.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Graduate of a 4-year course degree.

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

Basic Qualification: Graduate of a 4-year course degree.

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

MITSUSHI PHILIPPINES INC. Unit B Digna Bldg., 407, Barangay 290, Binondo, City Of Manila

101.

HUANG, YUNKE Translator Brief Job Description: Translation from Mandarin to English language.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 HISENSE PHILIPPINES INC. Unit 1004 & 1005 Exquadra Tower, Exchange Road Cor. Jade Drive Ortigas Center, San Antonio, City Of Pasig

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

KNW TECHNOLOGY INC. 103 Equinox Plaza, Sierra Madre, Highway Hills, City Of Mandaluyong

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate/level, preferably with customer service or sales experience, and fluent in Mandarin and basic English languages.

Basic Qualification: College graduate. With previous work experience in a similar industry.

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

Basic Qualification: College graduate/level, preferably with customer service or sales experience, and fluent in Mandarin and basic English languages.

Basic Qualification: College graduate/level, preferably with customer service or sales experience, and fluent in Mandarin and basic English languages.

Brief Job Description: Create project plan and outline the resources needed to complete each phase of the project.

SU, XIAOHONG Translator

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

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

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

JOY TECH CORP. 2/f Bachrach Bldg. Ii, Cor. 23rd Cor. Railroad, Barangay 653, Port Area, City Of Manila

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate/level, preferably with customer service or sales experience, and fluent in Mandarin and basic English languages.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

HWA LUN CORPORATION Unit 1606 B Sunjoy Bldg., 525 Lavezares St., Barangay 271, San Nicolas, City Of Manila

90.

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

HU, XIUPING Marketing Specialist

Brief Job Description: Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in relevant field, or equivalent work experience.

FUTURENET AND TECHNOLOGY CORP. 4502 The Finance Centre, 26th Street And 9th Ave., Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

DU, SHUAI Business Development Manager

GIANG, THI HOA LAN Customer Service Representative

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

FOSCON SHIPMANAGEMENT INC. Palacio Grande Building, Gen. Luna St. Cor Anda St., 069, Barangay 655, Intramuros, City Of Manila

WONG, GEORGE CORBIN Documentation Manager

Brief Job Description: Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

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

FLASH EXPRESS SOFTWARE (PH) CO., LTD. INC. 11/f Cybersigma, Lawton Ave., West Mckinley, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig RAN, HUIMIN General Affairs Specialist

Brief Job Description: Assists with additional projects in site such as photography shoots, advertising and digital marketing efforts, and manage the productions and delivery of proposals.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

GLARION TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION 4th-11th Flr. Nexgen Tower, C4 Rd. Edsa Ext., Barangay 76, Pasay City

EXLSERVICE PHILIPPINES, INC. 6th Floor, One E-com Center, Harbor Drive, Mall Of Asia Complex, Pasay City Basic Qualification: College graduate. With at least 10 years of work experience in Digital Transformation. Certified Six Sigma Black Belt, Certified Lean Coach, Certified CMMI L4 & L5 Implementer.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

ZHENG, WENQING Marketing Specialist

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Basic Qualification: At least 1-2 years of working experience as translator.

Can speak and write in Mandarin and English language fluently.

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

N-PAX SYSTEMS AND CONSULTING, INC. 17f One Global Place Building, 5th Ave., Corner 25th St., Bgc, City Of Taguig

KUNIYOSHI, ERIKO Technical Consultant 102.

Brief Job Description: Perform analysis on software solutions. Documenting processes and monitoring system performance metrics.

Design and implementation of the latest technological advancements and solutions.

NEW ORIENTAL CLUB88 CORPORATION 1331 Pearl Plaza Bldg., 133 Quirino Ave., Tambo, City Of Parañaque

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Japanese language both verbal and written communication. Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology or Computer Engineering.

Salary Range: Php 90,000 - Php 149,999

BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

103.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

TRAN DUC TUYEN Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

No.

LUO, QIANG Customer Service Representative 118.

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

NOCMAKATI, INC. 8,9,10,11,12,14,15,16,17,18 & 19 Floors, Century Diamond Center, Poblacion, City Of Makati DIEU TRIEN CUONG Call Center Agent 104.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries.

HENGJI WIJAYA Call Center Agent 105.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries.

HO TEAN HONG Call Center Agent 106.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries.

IRVAN OCTAVIANO Call Center Agent 107.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries.

LEONG KOK FU Call Center Agent 108.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries.

SI, ZHILONG Call Center Agent 109.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries.

VU THI YEN Call Center Agent 110.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries.

ZHANG, RAO Call Center Agent 111.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries.

Basic Qualification: College graduate/level.

Fluent in Mandarin/basic English language.

119.

112.

Brief Job Description: Build relationship with existing customers, maintaining client records, achieve sales targets and evaluating customer needs.

Brief Job Description: Build rapport and elicit problem details from help desk customers.

SUN, MING Customer Service Representative 120.

Brief Job Description: Build rapport and elicit problem details from help desk customers.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate/level.

Fluent in Mandarin/basic English language.

SUO, YUBAO Customer Service Representative 121.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate/level.

Fluent in Mandarin/basic English language.

122.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate/level.

Fluent in Mandarin/basic English language.

123.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate/level.

Fluent in Mandarin/basic English language.

124.

Basic Qualification: College graduate/level.

Fluent in Mandarin/basic English language.

Basic Qualification: College graduate. Fluent in Chinese-Mandarin and English languages.

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

XU, KEHAO Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Customer relation service provider.

Brief Job Description: Build rapport and elicit problem details from help desk customers.

YU, QIAN Customer Service Representative 125.

Basic Qualification: College graduate/level.

Fluent in Mandarin/basic English language.

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

Brief Job Description: Build rapport and elicit problem details from help desk customers.

XUN, KAINAN Customer Service Representative

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

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

Brief Job Description: Build rapport and elicit problem details from help desk customers.

TANG, KEKE Customer Service Representative

Brief Job Description: Build rapport and elicit problem details from help desk customers.

126.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin language. Good communication skills in verbal and writing.

No.

133.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin language. Good communication skills in verbal and writing.

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

134.

135.

136.

137.

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

113.

Brief Job Description: Deliver first line support within the designated geographic zone. Provide high-quality, technical support to the company’s end users and ensure the effective and timely resolution of customer support needs. Register customer queries and deliver effective and time resolution of service requests/incidents.

ZHU, FEIDA Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Customer relation service provider.

KUMAR, ANKIT Resource Planning Manager 127.

Brief Job Description: Providing project managers with outgoing resource management and related support.

138.

CHRISTIAN WIHARTA Bahasa Indonesia Account Manager 128.

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

114.

Brief Job Description: Oversee a large team of employees that provides customer support to clients, consumers and vendors as a key component of product/service offerings that are critical to company’s clients.

Basic Qualification: College graduate. With at least 10 years of expense and operational management experience in related field.

Brief Job Description: Stay on top of accounts, making sure they receive services that are within their budget and meet their needs.

CHEN, MINGXIN Customer Service Representative 115.

Brief Job Description: Build rapport and elicit problem details from help desk customers.

LIU, PANZHAO Customer Service Representative 116.

Brief Job Description: Build rapport and elicit problem details from help desk customers.

LIU, XIAOXIA Customer Service Representative 117.

Brief Job Description: Build rapport and elicit problem details from help desk customers.

AERONN Indonesian Marketing Associate 129.

Brief Job Description: Helps to create proposals and presentations in Bahasa Indonesia language, and conducts market research to identify new opportunities.

Salary Range: Php 500,000 and above

ROYAL GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES INC​.

2nd, 3rd, 5th, 6th, Ph Flr., Bpo Global Link Center, Shaw Blvd., Wack-wack Greenhills, City Of Mandaluyong

CALVIN Indonesian Marketing Associate 130.

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin language. Good communication skills in verbal and writing.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin language. Good communication skills in verbal and writing.

Brief Job Description: Helps to create proposals and presentations in Bahasa Indonesia language, and conducts market research to identify new opportunities.

DIMAS TANGGUH WIJAYA Indonesian Marketing Associate 131.

Brief Job Description: Helps to create proposals and presentations in Bahasa Indonesia language, and conducts market research to identify new opportunities.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin language. Good communication skills in verbal and writing.

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

Brief Job Description: Translate written documents, audio recordings, or spoken conversations accurately and efficiently from one language to another.

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

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin language. Good communication skills in verbal and writing.

NOVI NIRMALA SARI ROSALYN Translator (Bahasa Indonesia) 139.

Brief Job Description: Translate written documents, audio recordings, or spoken conversations accurately and efficiently from one language to another.

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

Basic Qualification: Fluent in multiple languages both verbal and written.

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

140.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Any nationality with excellent verbal communication skills, especially in Bahasa Indonesia & English languages.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Any nationality with excellent verbal communication skills, especially in Bahasa Indonesia & English languages.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With excellent verbal communication skills specifically in Mandarin and English languages.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With excellent verbal communication skills specifically in Mandarin and English languages.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With excellent verbal communication skills specifically in Mandarin and English languages.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Any nationality with excellent verbal communication skills, especially in Bahasa Indonesia & English languages.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Any nationality with excellent verbal communication skills, especially in Bahasa Indonesia & English languages.

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

Basic Qualification: At least college graduate.

MUHAMMAD ALDI TIA Indonesian Marketing Associate 132.

Brief Job Description: Helps to create proposals and presentations in Bahasa Indonesia language, and conducts market research to identify new opportunities.

142.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Any nationality with excellent verbal communication skills, especially in Bahasa Indonesia & English languages.

143.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Any nationality with excellent verbal communication skills, especially in Bahasa Indonesia & English languages.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Any nationality with excellent verbal communication skills, especially in Bahasa Indonesia & English languages.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Any nationality with excellent verbal communication skills, especially in Bahasa Indonesia & English languages.

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

Brief Job Description: Developing new business opportunities & strategies.

STARLUX AIRLINES CO., LTD. Units 4311 & 4312 43/f Alveo Financial Tower, 6794 Ayala Ave., San Lorenzo, City Of Makati

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

Basic Qualification: Any nationality with excellent verbal communication skills, especially in Bahasa Indonesia & English languages.

LI, HULIN Business Development Director- China Market

Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in supply chain or equivalent, and more than 5 years in executive role in the logistics and supply chain industry.

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

S-W TRADING CORP. Unit 101, #393 Mindanao Ave. 6, Talipapa, Quezon City

REALPAGE (PHILIPPINES) INC. 2f, 3f, 4f Tower 3, 7f Tower 1, 12f & 15f, Tower 2, Rockwell Business Ctr. Block 4 Meralco Cpmd., Ortigas, City Of Pasig JUAREZ, KENNETH FRANK Vice President - Global Support

Brief Job Description: Plan, execute, and oversee product inspection and testing for quality and conformance to specifications and deliveries.

LIONAR FRENDI Translator (Bahasa Indonesia)

141.

SICHAMALE, BENEDITO HILARIO Operator - IT Service Desk, Portuguese Speaker

Brief Job Description: Plan, execute, and oversee product inspection and testing for quality and conformance to specifications and deliveries.

ZHENG, CHEN Quality Assurance Specialist

Basic Qualification: Fluent in multiple languages both verbal and written.

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin language. Good communication skills in verbal and writing.

Brief Job Description: Plan, execute, and oversee product inspection and testing for quality and conformance to specifications and deliveries.

YANG, BANGFU Quality Assurance Specialist

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin language. Good communication skills in verbal and writing.

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

Brief Job Description: Establish and maintain effective customer relationships with customers, and assist in day-to-day operational responsibility.

AN, ZHONGJUN Quality Assurance Specialist

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin language. Good communication skills in verbal and writing.

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

Brief Job Description: Establish and maintain effective customer relationships with customers, and assist in day-to-day operational responsibility.

ONKY OCTAVIAN Indonesian Sales Specialist

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin language. Good communication skills in verbal and writing.

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

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

ADRIANTO GUNAWARDHANA Indonesian Sales Specialist

RRA ONE GLOBAL CONSULTANCY CORP. Blk 1 Lot 6 Progressive St., Lucky Homes Subd., Barangay 168, City Of Caloocan

ORICA SINGAPORE PTE LTD Level 11, Tower 2, Rockwell Business Center, Ortigas Avenue, City Of Pasig Basic Qualification: College graduate. With at least 2 years of customer support experience in a related field and ITIL Certification. Customer service focused and able to handle challenging customer.

A13

SINOTRANS (PHILIPPINES) INC. Unit 602 6/f Altoha Bldg, 2100 Madre Ignacia St, 077, Barangay 701, Malate, City Of Manila

NORTH TIDE INTERNATIONAL TRADE INC. 2nd Floor Bachrach Bldg. Ii, Corner 23rd And Railroad Streets Zone 68, Barangay 653, Port Area, City Of Manila SONG, YA Sales Representative

Brief Job Description: Build rapport and elicit problem details from help desk customers.

QU, MEILING Customer Service Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate/level.

Fluent in Mandarin/basic English language.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Wednesday, February 14, 2024

SHIU, JIUN-CHUNG Branch Manager Brief Job Description: To handle the flight operations.

HUANG, CHUN-JUI Manager Brief Job Description: To handle administrative and human resources aspect.

WU, PO-YU Station Manager Brief Job Description: To handle the flight operations.

Basic Qualification: College degree, fluent in English & Taiwanese/ Mandarin language, and extensive knowledge of managing airlines operation.

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999 Basic Qualification: College degree, fluent in English & Taiwanese/ Mandarin language, and extensive knowledge of managing airlines operation.

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999 Basic Qualification: College degree, fluent in English & Taiwanese/ Mandarin language, and extensive knowledge of managing airlines operation.

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

STONE ASIA AND SPECIALTY PRODUCTS, INC. 350, J.p. Rizal, Namayan, City Of Mandaluyong

HE, PENG Assistant Project Manager 144.

Brief Job Description: Support the development of OHS policies and programs.

XIE, YUQING Assistant Project Manager 145.

Brief Job Description: Support the development of OHS policies and programs.

FENG, HAO Multilingual Project Manager 146.

Brief Job Description: Supervise the work of laborers, mechanics etc. and give them guidance when needed.

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin and English languages both in written and verbal.

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

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin and English languages both in written and verbal.

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

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin and English languages both in written and verbal.

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

BusinessMirror

A14 A6 Wednesday, February 14, 2024

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION MENG, XIAO Multilingual Project Manager

147.

Brief Job Description: Supervise the work of laborers, mechanics etc., and give them guidance when needed.

BI, XIANGQING Multilingual Project Site Supervisor 148.

Brief Job Description: Analyzing blueprints to ensure that projects meet design, safety, and budget specifications.

YU, ZHANGWEI Multilingual Project Site Supervisor 149.

Brief Job Description: Analyzing blueprints to ensure that projects meet design, safety, and budget specifications.

CHEN, DONGFU Multilingual Safety And Health Officer 150.

Brief Job Description: Support the development of OHS policies and programs.

LU, XIAOJUN Multilingual Safety And Health Officer 151.

Brief Job Description: Support the development of OHS policies and programs.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin and English languages both in written and verbal.

No.

ANGELO TIO BLASIUS PALOHOEN Indonesian Customer Service Representative 160.

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

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customer by answering product and service question.

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin and English languages both in written and verbal.

BIMA SYABUDI Indonesian Customer Service Representative

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

161.

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin and English languages both in written and verbal.

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

162.

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin and English languages both in written and verbal.

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

163.

Brief Job Description: In-charge of marketing and planning. Liaison with related government agencies and other prospective clients. Represent and attend meetings with prospective clients.

153.

Brief Job Description: Provides expedient and accurate customer service to Japanese speaking clients and customers.

XU, XIANBANG Mandarin Operations CSR II

154.

Brief Job Description: Provides expedient and accurate customer service to Mandarin speaking clients and customers.

155.

Brief Job Description: Lead to the studio in strategy execution, operational efficiency, change management and in building the critical organizational capabilities that will significantly contribute to the company’s business growth and profitability.

DANIEL CHRISTIAN POLITON Indonesian Customer Service Representative 165.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customer by answering product and service question.

DEDY ALFRIZAL Indonesian Customer Service Representative 166.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customer by answering product and service question.

Basic Qualification: Skilled in Japanese language.

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

DICKY ARTA WIJAYA Indonesian Customer Service Representative 167.

Basic Qualification: Skilled in Mandarin language.

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

TOP DRAW ANIMATION, INC. 6th & 30th/f West Tower Psec Exchange Road, Ortigas Center, San Antonio, City Of Pasig

MISTRY, CYRUS KEKI Chief Operating Officer

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customer by answering product and service question.

Salary Range: Php 500,000 and above

TELUS INTERNATIONAL PHILIPPINES, INC. Units 23/f, 31st/f - 37th/f Discovery Centre, Adb Avenue, Ortigas Center, San Antonio, City Of Pasig HASEGAWA, SEIWA Japanese Operations CSR II

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customer by answering product and service question.

CHRISTIAN JOHOSOA LISAPALY Indonesian Customer Service Representative

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

TAISEI CORPORATION - PHILIPPINE BRANCH OFFICE U-902 9f Bdo Equitable Tower, 8751 Paseo De Roxas, Bel-air, City Of Makati

152.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customer by answering product and service question.

BUDI SUSANTO CENTANA Indonesian Customer Service Representative

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin and English languages both in written and verbal.

Basic Qualification: College graduate. With at least 15 years of project experience in the construction industry. With relevant knowledge in Engineering and is fluent in Japanese language.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customer by answering product and service question.

BRAVE PANGEMANAN Indonesian Customer Service Representative

164.

NATSUBORI, ATSUSHI Manager, Marketing Department

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Basic Qualification: College graduate. With at least 2 years of leadership experience in 2D animation company.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customer by answering product and service question.

EXSEL DAVISA Indonesian Customer Service Representative 168.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customer by answering product and service question.

HIUW FERY KAMEL Indonesian Customer Service Representative 169.

Salary Range: Php 500,000 and above

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customer by answering product and service question.

www.businessmirror.com.ph

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Proficient in reading, speaking and writing in Bahasa and English languages.

No.

175.

176.

177.

178.

179.

180.

181.

182.

183.

UCIT PHILIPPINES INC. Unit 1001 Hanston Square Bldg., San Miguel Ave., Ortigas Center, San Antonio, City Of Pasig

LAURENT, DANIEL Remote Concierge Specialist III 156.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for monitoring multiple sites concurrently while delivering a high-level of customer service to the consumers, analyze and process alarms and patrols, provide access to guests, resident and other clients.

NYAMBA FIGEH, LEWIS Remote Concierge Specialist III 157.

Brief Job Description: Monitoring multiple sites concurrently while delivering a high level of customer service to our clients.

170.

Basic Qualification: College graduate. With at least a year of work experience in the customer service industry.

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

IRMA RISMAWANTI Indonesian Customer Service Representative 171.

LUO, LIANG Mandarin Speaking Administrative Business Partner

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

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customer by answering product and service question.

Basic Qualification: Proficient in reading, speaking and writing in Bahasa and English languages.

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

Basic Qualification: Proficient in reading, speaking and writing in Bahasa and English languages.

JEFRI FERNANDO Indonesian Customer Service Representative 172.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customer by answering product and service question.

AHMAD FAHREZI Indonesian Customer Service Representative 158.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customer by answering product and service question.

ANDRES APRILIANO Indonesian Customer Service Representative 159.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customer by answering product and service question.

173.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customer by answering product and service question.

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

NIKO Indonesian Customer Service Representative 174.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customer by answering product and service question.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in reading, speaking and writing in Bahasa and English languages.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in reading, speaking and writing in Bahasa and English languages.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in reading, speaking and writing in Bahasa and English languages.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in reading, speaking and writing in Bahasa and English languages.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in reading, speaking and writing in Bahasa and English languages.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in reading, speaking and writing in Bahasa and English languages.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in reading, speaking and writing in Bahasa and English languages.

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

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

KASETSATHAPHORN, PHUSADI Mandarin Speaking Administrative Specialist 185.

Basic Qualification: Proficient in reading, speaking and writing in Bahasa and English languages.

186.

Basic Qualification: Proven experience as Mandarin Speaking Administrative Specialist.

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin speaking administrative specialist will be a strategist and a leader to be able to steer the company to the most profitable direction.

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

Basic Qualification: Proven experience as Mandarin Speaking Administrative Specialist.

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin speaking administrative specialist will be a strategist and a leader to be able to steer the company to the most profitable direction.

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

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

187.

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

Basic Qualification: Proficient in reading, speaking and writing in Bahasa and English languages.

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Speaking Administrative Business Partner will be a strategist and a leader to be able to steer the company to the most profitable direction.

YANG, ZESEN Mandarin Speaking IT Service Desk

MUHAMMAD RAYHAN Indonesian Customer Service Representative

Basic Qualification: Proficient in reading, speaking and writing in Bahasa and English languages.

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

VICTORY 88 GROUP LTD INC. 8/f, I Land Bay Plaza Bldg., D-macapagal Ave. Moa Complex, Barangay 76, Pasay City

Basic Qualification: Proficient in reading, speaking and writing in Bahasa and English languages.

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

Basic Qualification: Proven experience as Mandarin Speaking Administrative Business Partner.

LONG, JIANG Mandarin Speaking Administrative Specialist

Basic Qualification: 1-2 years of work experience in a customer facing role.

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

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customer by answering product and service question.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customer by answering product and service question.

Basic Qualification: Proficient in reading, speaking and writing in Bahasa and English languages.

YUANEFFULGENCE CORP. 14/f Pbcom Tower, 6795 Ayala Ave. Cor. V.a. Rufino St., Bel-air, City Of Makati

184.

IRFAN Indonesian Customer Service Representative

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customer by answering product and service question.

YOHANES TJHIE Indonesian Customer Service Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in reading, speaking and writing in Bahasa and English languages.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customer by answering product and service question.

YOHANA EVANKA NABABAN Indonesian Customer Service Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in reading, speaking and writing in Bahasa and English languages.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customer by answering product and service question.

WILLIAM PATRICK JOSUA PASARIBU Indonesian Customer Service Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in reading, speaking and writing in Bahasa and English languages.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customer by answering product and service question.

WILLIAM Indonesian Customer Service Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in reading, speaking and writing in Bahasa and English languages.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customer by answering product and service question.

TANIA FEBIYANTI Indonesian Customer Service Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in reading, speaking and writing in Bahasa and English languages.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customer by answering product and service question.

RORI VERBIAN NAINGGOLAN Indonesian Customer Service Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in reading, speaking and writing in Bahasa and English languages.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customer by answering product and service question.

RIKI BUDI SYAHPUTRA Indonesian Customer Service Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in reading, speaking and writing in Bahasa and English languages.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customer by answering product and service question.

RETNO TRI SUHARTINI Indonesian Customer Service Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in reading, speaking and writing in Bahasa and English languages.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

RAMADITYA BERLIANO WIRJADI Indonesian Customer Service Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in reading, speaking and writing in Bahasa and English languages.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Basic Qualification: Proficient in reading, speaking and writing in Bahasa and English languages.

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

Basic Qualification: Proficient in reading, speaking and writing in Bahasa and English languages.

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

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Speaking IT Service Desk will be a strategist and a leader to be able to steer the company to the most profitable direction.

Basic Qualification: Proven experience as Mandarin Speaking IT Service Desk.

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

*Date Generated: Feb 13, 2024 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.

A16 Wednesday, February 14, 2024

TheWorld BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Russia, West clash over Ukraine at Security Council meeting ahead of war anniversary

By Edith M. Lederer

U

The Associated Press

NITED NATIONS—Russia accused the West on Monday of sabotaging agreements that would have prevented the war in Ukraine—but the US and its allies put the blame squarely on Moscow, saying there is no escaping that President Vladimir Putin ordered the invasion of its smaller neighbor.

Days before the second anniversary of Russia’s invasion on February 24, 2022, Russia’s UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia again put the cause of the war down to the failure to implement the 2015 Minsk agreements, which he blamed on “Kyiv’s sabotage” supported by the West.

The agreements aimed to resolve the conflict between Ukraine

and Russia-backed separatists that flared in April 2014 after Russia’s annexation of Crimea and its support for the separatists in the mostly Russian-speaking industrial east called Donbas.

At Monday’s Security Council meeting that Russia called on the seventh anniversary of the signing of the Minsk peace plan brokered

by France and Germany, Nebenzia

Pope and Javier Milei meet amid speculation of Francis returning home after rough start

By Nicole Winfield The Associated Press

R PEOPLE mourn over the coffins of a family killed in a fire when Russian drone hit their home in residential neighborhood in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on Monday, February 12, 2024. Seven people including three children were killed on Saturday in the Russian drone attack. AP/ANDRII MARIENKO

called claims by Ukraine and Western nations that Russia refused to implement the agreements “absolutely baseless.”

Had the Minsk agreements been implemented, Nebenzia said, “the tragedy that has taken place in Ukraine today would not have happened, a tragedy in which the US and the collective West are complicit as they try to achieve their geopolitical aims at the cost of Ukraine and

the lives of its citizens.”

US deputy ambassador Robert Wood accused Russia of putting forward “significant myths and disinformation” in its efforts to rewrite history after it invaded a sovereign nation in violation of the UN Charter.

“Moscow has called us together today to lament the very violence it began, fueled and it continues to perpetrate daily,” he said.

Wood told the council Russia negotiated and signed the Minsk agreements but “ignored all commitments it made.”

“It is Russia that is the aggressor and Ukraine which is simply defending its people, its territorial integrity and its freedom,” the US envoy said.

Wood said Russia trained the separatist movement in eastern Ukraine as “a proxy force to undermine Ukraine’s stability,” and said the war and Putin’s recognition of the independence as so-called independent entities “have fully and forever nullified the Minsk agreements.”

Britain’s deputy UN ambassador James Kariuki said Russia’s invasion of Ukraine showed the world that Putin “was never interested in peace.”

He accused Russia of using the council meeting “in another attempt to distort history” and a desperate effort to justify its “unprovoked, unnecessary and illegal” invasion and ongoing war.

“We urge Russia once again to end its illegal invasion, withdraw from Ukraine and respect the principles of the UN Charter, Kariuki said, vowing that the United Kingdom will continue to stand with Ukraine and call out Russian disinformation.”

OME—Despite their rocky start, Argentina’s President Javier Milei and Pope Francis appeared to have hit it off as they held their first meeting Monday amid speculation that the Argentine pontiff might finally go home for a visit later this year.

The Vatican said the two men met for an hour and 10 minutes, an unusually long audience by Francis’ standards, especially given no translation was required. Vatican video showed a smiling Francis briefly grasping Milei’s arm for support as they walked to his desk at the start of their meeting.

Milei, who once called the pope an “imbecile,” gave Francis some of his favorite Argentine dulce de leche alfajor cookies and lemon biscuits. Francis presented him with the documents of his papacy and a medallion.

“One of the things that I’ve come to understand, among other things, is that the pope is the Argentine who is the most important person in the country,” Milei said in an interview broadcast Monday

by Italy’s Retequattro.

A warm tone was already set the previous day, when Milei embraced Francis with a bear hug at the end of a Mass to declare Argentina’s first female saint. A beaming pope quipped, “You cut your hair!”

Milei’s office posted photos of the embrace on X and wrote: “May God bless Argentines and may the forces of heaven accompany us.”

It wasn’t always so. Milei, a self-proclaimed libertarian and anarcho-capitalist who is promising a wave of austerity measures to revive Argentina’s economy, described Francis as an “imbecile” during the election campaign that brought him to office. He called Francis “the representative of malignance on Earth.”

Francis, who has also lamented Argentina’s prolonged economic crisis, appeared to have forgiven him and brushed off the criticism as mere campaign rhetoric.

Milei said as much in his interview with Retequattro. Describing himself as a Catholic who also practices Jewish rituals, he said he now understood that Francis was the leader of

Indonesia’s presidential election has high stakes for US and China

By Niniek Karmini & Edna Tarigan The Associated Press

J

AKARTA, Indonesia—When Indonesians cast their votes on Wednesday for a new president in one of the world’s biggest elections, the stakes will also be high for the United States and China.

The Southeast Asian nation is a key battleground economically and politically in a region where the rival global powers have long been on a collision course over Taiwan, human rights, US military deployments and Beijing’s aggressive actions in disputed waters, including the South China Sea. Outgoing President Joko Widodo’s foreign policy avoids criticism of Beijing and Washington but also rejects alignment with either power. The delicate balancing act has won considerable Chinese trade and investment for Indonesia, including a $7.3 billion high-speed railway that was

largely funded by China, while Jakarta has also boosted defense ties and intensified military exercises with the US. These policies would likely continue if election frontrunner Prabowo Subianto, the current defense minister whose vice presidential running mate is Widodo’s eldest son, wins, according to analysts.

“None of the major structural features of defense and foreign policy, I think, will change,” said Evan Laksmana, a Southeast Asia security expert at the International Institute for Strategic Studies in Singapore.

Subianto adheres to a policy of neutrality and has publicly praised the US and China. He cited America’s historical role in pressuring the Netherlands to recognize Indonesian sovereignty in the 1940s, during a forum in November at the Center for Strategic and International Studies think tank in Jakarta.

“This is part of history and we cannot forget this debt of honor,” said Subianto, who also extolled China’s importance to Southeast Asia.

the world ’s Catholics and represents an important institution in a largely Catholic country like Argentina.

“As a result, I had to reconsider some positions, and starting from that moment, we began to build a positive relationship,” Milei was quoted as saying, according to excerpts of the interview.

As recently as last month the 87-year-old pontiff repeated his hope to visit Argentina later this year for the first time since his 2013 election. His decade long absence from his homeland, despite having visited neighboring countries such as Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay and Chile during his pontificate, has befuddled Argentines and others alike.

Milei invited Francis to visit, and the country’s bishops have similarly pressed for him to finally come home.

“Regarding the pope, he is invited, he is Argentinian and he will come for sure but I don’t know when,” Argentine Foreign Minister Diana Mondino told reporters when asked by reporters at the Italian foreign ministry.

The Vatican made no mention of a possible visit in a statement released after the Francis-Milei meeting. The statement, which focused only on Milei’s subsequent encounter with the Vatican secretary of state, said those talks covered the government’s “program to counter the economic crisis” as well as unspecified international conflicts.

Later Monday, Milei met with Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni and President Sergio Mattarella.

Meloni wrote on X, formerly Twitter, that they discussed boosting economic ties in the energy, infrastructure and agroalimentary industries.

Milei had reason to be pleased going into the audience. Overnight, Israeli forces freed two hostages with Argentine citizenship who had been kidnapped by Hamas on October 7. Milei arrived in Rome last Friday after a visit to Israel where he spent time with the Argentine community.

In a message on X, his office thanked Israeli forces for the rescue.

Paolo Santalucia contributed.

“China is a great civilization. It has contributed a lot and now it is very, very active and contributing a lot to our economy.”

Former Education Minister and Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan, a presidential candidate who is trailing Subianto in most independent surveys, said he would shift what he called Widodo’s “transactional” foreign policy to one anchored on principles if he triumphs in the elections.

“When a countr y invades another country, we can say this is against our basic values. Even though we are friends, if rights were violated, we can reprimand them,” Baswedan told The Associated Press in an interview last month without saying which country he was alluding to.

Baswedan said human rights and environmental protection should underpin Indonesia’s foreign policy. “If we have no values, then there is a cost-benefit relationship, where we will only support countries that are profitable for us,” he said.

The Associated Press journalists Jim Gomez in Jakarta, Indonesia and David Rising in Bangkok, Thailand contributed to this report.

www.businessmirror.com.ph

TheWorld BusinessMirror

Poland, France, and Germany to strengthen Europe amid growing fears over Russia and Donald Trump

By Sylvie Corbet, Vanessa Gera & Geir Moulson The Associated Press

P

ARIS—The governments of Poland, France and Germany vowed Monday to make Europe a security and defense power with a greater ability to back Ukraine, amid concerns that former US President Donald Trump might return to the White House and allow Russia to expand its aggression on the continent.

The foreign ministers of the three countries met in the Paris suburb of La Celle-SaintCloud to have talks about Ukraine, amid other issues. They discussed reviving the so-called Weimar Triangle, a long dormant regional grouping that was designed to promote cooperation between France, Germany and Poland.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, who met with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Berlin on Monday, said he wanted to “revitalize” his nation’s relations with its key European partners.

“There is no reason why we should be so clearly militarily weaker than Russia, and therefore increasing production and intensifying our cooperation are absolutely indisputable priorities,” Tusk said in arguing for the European Union to become “a military power” in its own right.

The diplomatic push came after Trump shocked many in Europe over the weekend by appearing to invite Russia to invade any NATO member not spending enough on its own defense. “’You didn’t pay? You’re delinquent?’”

Trump recounted telling an unidentified NATO member during his presidency. “’No, I would

not protect you. In fact, I would encourage them to do whatever the hell they want. You gotta pay. You gotta pay your bills.’”

The Republican front-runner’s words at a campaign rally were particularly shocking for front-line NATO countries like Poland, which experienced both German and Soviet occupation during World War II and later spent decades under Soviet control. Anxieties run high there over the ongoing war just across Poland’s eastern border.

Speaking alongside Tusk in Berlin, Scholz blasted Trump’s comments.

“NATO’s promise of protection is unrestricted—‘all for one and one for all,’” Scholz said without mentioning the former president by name. “And let me say clearly for current reasons: Any relativization of NATO’s support guarantee is irresponsible and dangerous, and is in the interest of Russia alone.”

“No one can play, or ‘deal,’ with Europe’s security,” the chancellor added.

Earlier Monday, Scholz inaugurated a new ammunition factory, underlining Europe’s efforts to ramp up weapons production.

Tusk also urged European nations to invest more in military projects in order “to achieve as quickly as possible...in the next dozen or so months, much greater air defense capabilities, much greater production capabilities in terms of ammunition.”

Asked about Trump’s remarks, Tusk said they “should act like a cold shower for all those who continue to underestimate this increasingly real threat which Europe is facing.”

Macron, speaking alongside Tusk in Paris, said Europe’s will “to further supply and meet Ukrainian needs is crucial,” after leaders of the 27 EU member nations sealed a deal to provide Ukraine with 50 billion euros ($54 billion) in support for its war-ravaged economy.

This “will enable us to make from Europe a security and defense power that is both complementary to NATO and a pillar of the Atlantic alliance, Macron said.

Trump’s remarks raised concerns that if reelected, he could embolden Russia to attack other countries besides Ukraine. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg issued a statement Sunday saying that Trump’s remarks put American troops and their allies at greater risk.

NATO does not require its 31 members to pay bills, but they are expected to invest a certain percentage of their own budgets— ideally, 2 percentof their gross domestic product—on defense.

Some countries, like Poland, have long met the target. Other European nations ramped up their military spending after Russia invaded Ukraine almost two years ago.

Speaking in Rome, Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani dismissed Trump’s threat as “electoral campaign joke,” but said it was legitimate for all NATO members to do their part. Italy hasn’t yet reached the 2 percentGDP defense spending target.

“To have more influence within NATO we need a Europe with its own army,” he said.

“We must look forward, because it is fair that Americans are asking us to do our part, we must have equal responsibility.”

Germany, with a post-World War II political culture of military caution, was a frequent target of Trump’s ire during his presidency for falling short of the 2 percenttarget. But Berlin announced plans to step up military spending after the full-scale invasion of Ukraine and plans to hit the benchmark this year.

France’s military budget grew in recent years and reached the level of about 2 percentof GDP. Moulson contributed from Berlin and Gera from Warsaw. Paolo Santalucia contributed from Rome.

Wednesday, February 14, 2024 A17

China calls on Israel to stop military operations in Gaza as soon as possible

By The Associated Press

C

HINA on Tuesday called on Israel to halt military operations in Gaza as soon as possible, a day after Israeli forces rescued two hostages from the Gaza Strip in a dramatic operation that also killed at least 74 Palestinians, according to Palestinian hospital officials.

The raid took place in Rafah, the city on the southern edge of the Gaza Strip where 1.4 million Palestinians have f led to escape fighting elsewhere in the IsraelHamas war. Women and children were among those killed in the airstrikes, Palestinian officials said.

China’s Foreign Ministry added in a brief statement on Tuesday that Israel should “do everything possible to avoid casualties among innocent civilians and prevent a more devastating humanitarian disaster in Rafah.”

The Palestinian death toll from the war has surpassed 28,000 people, according to the Health Ministry in Gaza. A quarter of Gaza’s residents are starving.

The war began with Hamas’ assault into Israel on October 7, in which militants killed about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducted around 250. Israel says about 100 hostages remain in Hamas captivity, while Hamas is holding the remains of roughly 30 others who were either killed on October 7 or died in captivity.

Three hostages were mistakenly killed by the army after escaping their captors in December.

133 bodies brought to hospital THE Health Ministry in Hamas-run Gaza says the bodies of 133 people killed in Israeli strikes have been brought to hospitals in the warwrecked territory over the past day.

Hospita ls a lso received 162 wounded patients, the ministry said.

Also Tuesday, the death toll from an Israeli hostage rescue operation in the town of Rafah rose to 74, according to Dr. Marawan al-Hams, director of the local Abu Youssef alNajjar Hospital. Israeli forces conducting the operation, which freed two hostages, were backed by heavy airstrikes on the town, to where hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians have fled.

The fresh fatalities brought the death toll in Gaza to 28,473 since the war began on October 7, according to the ministry.

The ministry doesn’t differentiate between civilians and combatants in its count but says more than 70 percentof the dead are women and minors. Israel says its forces have killed 10,000 Hamas fighters without providing evidence. It blames Hamas for the death toll, saying it embeds in civilians areas, putting noncombatants at risk.

More than 68,000 people have

been wounded in the war, of them 11,000 that need urgent evacuation for treatment out of Gaza, the ministry said.

The ministry said many of the dead remain under the rubble of destroyed buildings and on roadsides with first responders unable to reach many areas and collect the bodies.

Arab League warns Israel against forcefully displacing Palestinians THE secretary-general of the Arab League has warned Israel against policies he described as forcefully displacing Palestinians from the Gaza Strip and the West Bank.

Ahmed Aboul Gheit decried what he called an “Israeli mentality” to try and seize land the Palestinians want for their future state. He warned any seizure of the Gaza Strip or the West Bank by Israel would mean “a confrontation for the next thousand years.”

“The United States must order Israel to stop these policies or otherwise the Middle East will explode in an unprecedented way,” he said.

He also called on Israel to “empty the settlements” in Palestinian land as well.

Aboul Gheit, a former ambassador to the United Nations and Egypt’s last foreign minister under ousted president Hosni Mubarak, spoke at the World Government Summit in Dubai. AP

A18 Wednesday, February 14, 2024 • Editor: Angel R. Calso

Opinion BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

editorial

High food prices hinder healthy eating habits

N

early a decade ago, the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI) of the Department of Science and Technology unveiled “Pinggang Pinoy.” It was a visual guide meant to encourage Filipino families to adopt healthy eating habits. Pinggang Pinoy uses a familiar plate model, which shows the right food group proportions on a per-meal basis.

Based on the FNRI model, half of the plate represents “glow” foods consisting of fruits and vegetables. One sixth of the plate shows the proportion of “grow” foods, such as meats, eggs, poultry, fish, beans, and legumes. One third of the plate is “go” foods like rice, corn, bread, oatmeal, and root crops.

However, the current consumption habits of most Filipinos do not follow this guide. More often than not, a significant part of their meal consists of rice. Their viand will depend on their budget—meat dishes for those who have the means and vegetables or even canned goods for those who need to economize.

This is because food has become more expensive in the Philippines, especially in urban areas. Based on the February 12 price data of the Department of Agriculture (DA), a kilogram of pork—the most popular meat product in the Philippines—costs anywhere from P280 to P400, depending on the cut. Those who want to eat poultry dishes would have to shell out as much as P210 for a kilo of dressed chicken.

Rice, the Filipinos’ favorite source of carbohydrates, has also become more expensive in recent weeks, based on DA data. A kilo of regular milled rice—currently the most affordable variety—sells for an average of P51.50. Those who wish to pair premium rice with their favorite “ulam” (viand) would need to spend P60 for a kilo of their preferred variety.

The spikes in food prices due to a host of factors, some of which are beyond the control of the government, have now made it more difficult for Filipinos to adopt healthy eating habits. Citing data from the Food and Agriculture Organization, the National Nutrition Council (NNC) said the average global cost of a healthy diet is $3.54 per person per day as of 2020. It is more expensive in the Philippines, where it costs an average of $4.11 or P242.50 per person per day.

Adopting healthy eating habits would set back a typical Filipino family at least P1,000 per day. This means that a two-income family would have to earn more than P1,000 daily to afford not only a healthy diet but also pay for other essentials like transportation and utilities. Those who have children would also have to set aside funds for school expenses.

Sadly, a healthy diet remains aspirational for many Filipinos despite the fact that most workers spend half of their income for food. The other half is spent on utilities, rent, transportation and miscellaneous items.

There is hardly anything left for an average Filipino worker to spend on insurance and to set aside for a rainy day.

It would do well for the government to focus on reducing food prices to enhance the competitiveness of the Philippines as an investment destination. It must accord the same attention it gives to other areas, such as infrastructure, power, and the peace and order situation in the country. Turning Pinggang Pinoy into reality will create a healthy workforce and eventually improve the country’s productivity.

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Construction rebound spurs job growth Mark Villar

THE BUILDER

T

he construction sector serves as a reliable gauge of economic vitality. The sight of tower cranes punctuating Metro Manila’s skyline indicates robust demand for condominiums or office spaces, reflecting the overall health of the economy.

Similarly, the presence of excavators heralds impending projects aimed at enhancing public services, often funded by the government, development partners or private sector entities.

During my tenure as secretary at the Department of Public Works and Highways, I had the privilege to attend groundbreaking ceremonies and subsequent project inaugurations.

Witnessing the culmination of these endeavors, which involved hundreds if not thousands of workers, was truly gratifying. There is a sense of fulfillment when we see a project completed. These completed projects stand as public monuments, testament to the exceptional skills and expertise of Filipino workers.

Hence, it’s heartening to note that construction played a pivotal role in driving economic growth last year, based on government reports.

Per the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), construction emerged as the primary contributor to the

fourth-quarter gross domestic product (GDP) growth of 5.6 percent.

The PSA reported that construction contributed 8.5 percent to the year-on-year GDP growth in October-December 2023, the highest among all sectors. It registered a 10.1-percent expansion in real terms compared to the same period in 2022, following a 12.6-percent surge in the previous quarter.

The National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) attributed this robust performance to vigorous private and public construction activities. Private construction rose 7.5 percent, while public construction surged 14.7 percent in the fourth quarter of 2023.

The government anticipates sustained growth in the construction sector, led by initiatives such as the “Build-Better-More” program and the Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Housing Program.

In 2023, GDP expanded by 5.6 percent, with construction ranking among the top contributors,

alongside financial and insurance activities. Although the construction sector’s annual growth slightly decelerated from 12.1 percent in 2022 to 9.1 percent in 2023, its overall contribution to the economy reached an all-time high of 14.5 percent, up from 14 percent in 2022 and 13.4 percent in 2021.

The construction sector, in fact, now has a bigger contribution to the GDP than the agriculture and fisheries sector, with less than 10 percent.

Government data showed that construction accounted for P3.6 trillion of the P24.3-trillion GDP and nearly P27 trillion of the gross national income (GNI) at current prices in 2023.

Beyond economic upliftment, the construction sector generated new employment opportunities and livelihoods for Filipino workers.

The latest PSA report indicates that the unemployment rate in December 2023 dropped to a near twodecade low of 3.1 percent, down from 4.3 percent in December 2022 and 3.6 percent in November 2023.

Again, one of the reasons is the recovery of the construction sector, which absorbed 777,000 additional employees over the past 12 months, underscoring its role as a significant job creator.

The record-low unemployment rate reflects sustained economic momentum and shows the construction sector’s emergence as a potent job generator.

Government investments in public infrastructure, equivalent to more than 5 percent of the GDP, cou-

A $700 billion insurance product is powering the US credit market rally

By Olivia Raimonde & Alicia Clanton

A

n insurance product that consumers use to help fund their retirements is selling at record levels, powering demand for corporate debt and commercial mortgage bonds.

Last year, sales of annuities, which allow consumers to effectively buy income for the rest of their lives, reached an all-time record high of $385 billion, according to life insurance trade group Limra. That’s up 23 percent from the year before.

The products grew more attractive as rising interest rates translate into higher potential annual payouts from the products.

Behind the scenes, the life insurers that usually sell annuities are buying bonds to generate income for the products, and in particular, corporate debt and asset-backed securities including mortgage bonds.

Their demand might decline a bit this year after bond yields have fallen, but Limra says annuity sales

are still expected to remain strong by historic standards.

The insurers’ bond purchases underscore how demand for many debt securities now is driven by demographics, and illustrates why valuations for corporate bonds can remain high even as the Federal Reserve keeps monetary policy relatively tight.

“Key drivers for credit demand at the moment are retail and pensions seeking higher all-in yields, and annuity sales driven by more baby boomers retiring and by a higher level of interest rates giving policyholders higher monthly payments,” said Torsten Slok, chief economist at Apollo Global Management.

Money raised by annuities often

goes toward investment-grade debt, usually fixed-rate and ranging between three to 10 years — broadly in line with annuity durations, said Deutsche Bank AG strategist Ed Reardon.

For investment-grade corporate bonds, demand from annuities and other investors catering to retirees are helping to keep valuations high.

The average risk premium, or spread, on a company note rated BBB- or higher is 0.95 percentage point, close to the tightest level in the last two years.

Over the last two decades, spreads have averaged closer to 1.49 percentage point, according to Bloomberg index data.

Record inflows into fixed-rate annuities are also a strong driver of insurance demand for commercial mortgage-backed securities, Reardon wrote in a February 6 note. AAA CMBS excess returns in 2024 are higher than those of both investment-grade and high-yield corporate

pled with private sector initiatives to stimulate demand for housing, commercial properties and infrastructure, have been instrumental in this regard.

I am optimistic this upward trend will persist in the months and years ahead, particularly if borrowing costs become more favorable. This will encourage more people and businesses to invest in their future.

Interest rates are expected to decline this year, especially with inflation showing signs of easing in recent months. The inflation in January this year moderated to 2.8 percent, the lowest in over two years, falling within the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) target range of 2 percent to 4 percent for the year.

The BSP officials are closely monitoring whether this level can be sustained in the coming months before making decisions on borrowing and lending rates.

Many economists anticipate downward interest rate adjustments by mid-2024, fueling optimism among various sectors, including property developers and construction firms, which plan to initiate or restart projects this year. This optimism has contributed to the resurgence of the local stock market and contributed to the positive business outlook.

I am upbeat the construction sector will continue to bolster its economic contribution as we collectively strive to build a better future for all.

For feedback e-mail to senatormarkvillar@ gmail.com or visit our web site: https://markvillar. com.ph

debt, according to Reardon.

The average AAA CMBS spread versus Treasuries stood at 0.88 percentage point as of Friday, having fallen roughly 30 basis points from an October high, data compiled by Bloomberg shows.

Over the next two years, annuity sales could total as much as $693 billion, according to estimates from Limra. The group expects sales of up to $331 billion this year—a decline from 2023, but a level that would still have been a record in 2022.

“Last two years has been going gangbusters and the expectation is for this year to be the same,” said Dec Mullarkey, a managing director overseeing investment strategy and asset allocation at SLC Management, which manages $264 billion.

Falling rates “will impact demand somewhat,” he cautioned, “but they will still be at reasonable levels, that all-in yield will still be attractive versus history.”

See “A $700,” A19

www.news.businessmirror@gmail.com

Opinion BusinessMirror

Wednesday, February 14, 2024 A19

Tankers tied to the Russian Closure of illegal lead smelters in Pampanga shows how oil trade grind to a halt LGUs, national government can effectively work together We at the Federation of Philipfollowing US sanctions pine Industries are very happy

By Julian Lee and Alex Longley

A

chunk of the vast fleet of tankers that Russia uses to deliver its crude oil is grinding to a halt under the weight of US sanctions, a sign that tougher measures by western regulators might be starting to have tangible effects on Moscow.

About half of the 50 tankers that the US Treasury began sanctioning on October 10 have failed to load cargoes since they were listed, according to a ship-by-ship tracking of each one by Bloomberg. The latest to be targeted—the Sovcomflot carrier NS Leader—performed an immediate U-turn off the coast of Portugal on Thursday when its owner was named by the US. It was sailing toward a Russian port in the Baltic Sea at the time.

The Group of Seven imposed a $60-a-barrel price cap on crude in December 2022 that was meant to keep Russian oil gushing while at the same time depriving the Kremlin of petrodollars. Caps on refined products were introduced two months later. The system came in for heavy criticism last year as Moscow found workarounds and some western companies continued moving the nation’s oil—something they weren’t supposed to do once the barrels traded above the threshold.

But the US responded by intensifying sanctions and investigating potential breaches of the price cap, a step that drove many Greek tanker owners out of the trade.

The result has been ballooning freight costs and Russian oil that’s being trading at deeper discounts to international benchmarks, according to organizations including the International Energy Agency. Russian energy minister Alexander Novak said that the country’s barrels are going cheaper.

The picture is still fragmented because the US Treasury imposed its sanctions in batches, meaning that some ships might not have gotten to the point of loading cargoes yet anyway.

Of the 50 tankers sanctioned since early October, 18 have collected cargoes. Of those, nine were shuttle ships and nine appeared to collect consignments as normal since they were added to the list. One is still carrying a cargo it took on board before it was sanctioned.

That leaves 31. Of those, seven had been idled even before sanctions and three may well load soon. That leaves 21 that haven’t loaded cargo since.

Sanctioned ships

Eight individual vessels were named between October 10 and December 12.

Another 24 tankers were then listed on Dec. 20, when the Treasury took measures against SUN Ship Management D Ltd., a company owned by Russia’s state-controlled shipping company Sovcomflot PJSC. Hennesea Holdings Ltd., a United Arab Emirates-based owner of 18 vessels was added to the sanctions list on January 18. The 50th vessel, the NS Leader, was named on Thursday.

All eight of the ships sanctioned in the first wave are now idle, most of them since shortly after they were named by Treasury.

Nine of the 24 ships managed by SUN are specialized shuttle tankers that are continuing to ply their trade.

One more is holding a cargo of Sokol

A $700 . . .

continued from A18

Fixed-rate deferred annuities One type of annuity that is selling particularly well are fixed-rate deferred annuities. Policyholders make an investment upfront, which accumulates interest at a fixed rate over a set amount of time. After the so-called annuitization point, they can start receiving income payments.

The product line recently had its best-ever quarterly sales, with $58.5 billion sold in the fourth quarter, up 52 percent from the year-ago period, according to Limra. Volume totaled $164.9 billion in 2023, up 46 percent from the 2022 annual high of $113 billion.

Annuities tend to be most popular

crude that it was unable to deliver to India. The remaining 14 are still working.

All but one of the 18 Hennesea tankers, one of which was already sanctioned back at the start of December, are currently idle. Seven were already anchored or idling well before they were sanctioned. One, the Nellis, is being used to store Sokol crude, another is anchored off the Pacific port of Vladivostok.

The only other Hennesea tanker that’s active appears to be waiting in the Red Sea. The La Pride, hauling a cargo of Russia’s Urals crude, made a U-turn as it neared the troubled waters off Yemen on February 7. It’s been idling in waters about 350 miles further north, still signaling a destination of Qingdao in China.

The other four ships in the Hennesea fleet that were already hauling Russian cargoes when they were sanctioned have remained idle since the cargoes were delivered.

Treasury bullish

The average price of Russia’s Urals crude at the point of export is trading at ever-growing discounts to Dated Brent, an international benchmark.

“Independent agencies, market analysts and the Russians themselves point to the fact that the price cap is achieving both of our goals: denying Russia the energy profits it needs to wage its illegal war, while simultaneously promoting stable energy markets.” said Eric Van Nostrand, the US Treasury’s acting Assistant Secretary for Economic Policy.

The secretive nature of the Russian trade nevertheless means it is hard to be certain just how hard Moscow is being hit.

Once it arrives in India, that same discount for Urals has actually narrowed relative to Dated Brent. There is also a huge gap between export and import prices—and it’s not clear who is profiting from that so-called delivery spread.

There’s a further layer of confusion because deliveries of Russia’s Sokol grade to customers in India have virtually halted, with reports that there have been challenges in sorting out payments for such barrels.

Shipping hit

What’s more certain is that the tankers tied to Russian trading are being affected. Over the past two months, a total of 14 tankers hauling the Russia’s Sokol grade crude to India have either been dithering, or anchored in waters east of Singapore. Almost half of them U-turned before reaching their destinations. Three tankers holding Sokol crude are among the 50 that have been sanctioned.

The price cap imposed by Western countries and sanctions on some Russian shipping companies have led to crude delivery issues at Indian ports, India’s Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said earlier this month. With assistance from Daniel Flatley/Bloomberg

among people nearing retirement or who have already left the workforce.

The average age for those buying the products is around 62, according to Bryan Hodgens, head of Limra research. Roughly 17 percent of the US population was over 65 years old in 2022, compared with about 12 percent in 2000, data from the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis shows.

Any rate cuts by the Fed this year would also buoy corporate debt as prices rise when yields fall.

“Credit has consistently outperformed other sectors of fixed income since mid-2020, and the surge in annuity sales is almost certainly part of the reason,” wrote Steven Abrahams, head of investment strategy at Santander US Capital Markets, in a note. “That is a positive for credit performance going forward.” Bloomberg

Dr. Jesus Lim Arranza

MAKE SENSE

L

ast February 8, we received very good news from San Simon, Pampanga.

Finally, the big lead smelters and recyclers of used lead acid batteries located inside the Global Aseana Business Park that were operating without the permits and licenses required by the local government and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) have been shuttered.

The department heads of the municipality of San Simon, aided by the police, served and implemented the cease and desist orders (CDOs) issued against Chilwee Metallic Manufacturing Corp., Energetically Battery Manufacturing, Ecoseal Metallic Manufacturing Corp., Ecometallic Co., and 5th Resources.

The gates of these establishments were padlocked and sealed with stickers and tarpaulins for their failure to have the proper facilities mandated by several laws to operate as lead smelters and recyclers of used lead acid batteries, including RA 8749 (Clean Air Act), RA9275 (Clean Water Act), and RA6969 (Hazardous and Nuclear Wastes Act).

They were shuttered upon the mandate from the Office of the President, DENR through Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga and DENREMB Region 3 Director Martin Jose D. Despi, and Pampanga Governor Dennis Pineda and Vice Governor Lilia Pineda through Provincial Environment Office Head Engr. Arthur Punsalan.

Should they opt to remove the padlocks and the tarpaulins and con-

tinue their illegal operation, these companies would face more serious charges.

I am certain they would earn the ire of the Pinedas if these establishments would be bold enough to make a mockery out of the authority of the provincial and municipal governments.

The owners of this industrial park probably do not know what these companies were doing because based on the reports we gathered, they only applied for warehousing permits and not lead smelting.

The campaign against these illegal lead smelters started to gain ground after the Office of the President ordered the DENR to look into this problem in reaction to the exposé that I made in the media that illegal smelters are operating in different parts of the country.

The DENR confirmed that indeed several lead smelters are operating without the permits and licenses required by the DENR and LGUs. The largest ones are operating in San Simon.

The municipality of San Simon and the provincial government of

with this victory in San Simon, as this is a good example of how local and national government agencies can effectively team up to stop unscrupulous businessmen from wreaking havoc on the environment and the health of the surrounding communities.

Pampanga also acted on the complaint and conducted site inspections. The companies were then issued notices of violation and show cause orders that they failed to satisfactorily answer.

The CDOs were issued following the inspection conducted by the joint teams of the DENR and the local government headed by Despi, Punsalan, and San Simon municipal department heads. The joint teams confirmed the violations being committed by these companies.

We, at the Federation of Philippine Industries (FPI), are very happy with this victory in San Simon, as this is a good example of how local and national government agencies can effectively team up to stop unscrupulous businessmen from wreaking havoc on the environment and the health of the surrounding communities.

We are now asking the DENR and other LGUs to continue cleansing the country of environmentally destructive illegal lead smelters and used lead acid battery recyclers, using the San Simon case as a model.

Reports reaching the FPI showed that there are also several unregulated lead smelters and ULAB recyclers in areas like Valenzuela, Tondo in Manila, Tarlac, Cavite, Cebu, and Davao, among others. Also, the pad-

locked companies in San Simon could just resurface in other areas using different corporate names.

I am admonishing these companies to do their business the proper way, follow the regulations, and make sure their operations are not harming the environment and the communities. The FPI is pushing for a level playing field because this is the only way everyone—the government, the businesses, and the people—will truly benefit from economic activities. We are a country governed by laws, and salus populi suprema lex (the welfare of the people is the supreme law).

I’ve already sent letters to PBBM and Secretary Loyzaga conveying our utmost gratitude to them and Gov. Dennis Pineda, Vice Gov. Lilia Pineda, Directors Despi and Punsalan, and the municipality of San Simon for playing crucial roles in this big victory for the environment and the people of the surrounding communities. They are indeed heroes of the environment.

With a strong mandate from the President and Secretary Loyzaga, we are confident that the entire country would be free from these types of environmentally destructive establishments.

The federation commits to continue supporting the government in this campaign and help the Marcos administration rid the country of illicit trade in its various forms to shield the local industries and public from its ill effects, which is the primary purpose of FPI’s existence.

Dr. Jesus Lim Arranza is the chairman of the Federation of Philippine Industries and Fight Illicit Trade; a broad-based, multisectoral movement intended to protect consumers, safeguard government revenues and shield legitimate industries from the ill effects of smuggling.

Britain’s chronic housing shortage has become an election issue

By Damian Shepherd

B

ritain isn’t building enough homes and the shortage is about to get even worse.

That’s based on calculations by Bloomberg News of government population data and homebuilding targets from the biggest political parties, which suggests a shortfall of almost 100,000 homes a year over the next parliament when including pent up demand from years of missed targets.

It’s a key battleground for politicians as the country readies for a UK-wide vote expected later this year. A prelude of which comes with two special elections scheduled for Thursday, where a lack of affordable housing has come into sharp relief.

More than four years ago, the ruling Conservative Party pledged to build 300,000 new homes a year, a target they fell short of every year after, before making it advisory in 2022. The Labour Party, which is leading in the polls, effectively matched the objective by promising in October to build 1.5 million homes over five years, should it get into power.

But the country will need to build almost 400,000 dwellings annually over the next five years to factor in stronger population growth—almost all of which will come from immigration—as well as the homes that would have been built had targets since 2019 been met, according to calculations by Bloomberg News.

The trouble is, the number of new homes being built isn’t even close to the targets. An average of about 200,000 were completed each year in the UK between 2018 and 2022, according to government-compiled data. Even more, the pipeline is being choked after a decade of budget cuts left local governments without the resources to approve enough new homes in a timely fashion, Bloomberg News reported previously.

About 1,500 new private residential projects went under construction in the UK last year, the lowest in at least a decade and about 50 percent lower than approvals in 2018, according to data compiled exclusively for Bloomberg by researcher Glenigan Ltd.

For some, the effects of the crisis have been devastating.

During the first week of December, temperatures in the market town of Wellingborough, central England, dropped close to freezing.

A man—who was reportedly homeless—died after sleeping rough in the town’s park. Wellingborough’s only homeless shelter was shut down during the pandemic, meaning the closest facility is now a 30-minute bus journey away.

“The town was in shock at the death, but there was also a feeling of deja vu,” said Mayor of Wellingborough Valerie Anslow, a Labour Party councilor, who ran the town’s former homeless shelter. “We’ve got more and more people in temporary accommodation, which is consequence of a lack of affordable housing.”

A special election for Wellingborough, where the Tories have a margin of more than 18,000 votes, should ordinarily be an easy hold for the party but Labour has achieved a string of victories in other recent by-elections, partly driven by a series of pledges to stoke housebuilding.

A month prior to the death, a motion demanding a clearer strategy to build more affordable houses and protect homeless people in the area was thrown out by the local government, with a Tory councilor quoted in local newspapers as saying enough was already being done.

Some 100 miles southwest in the town of Kingswood, the Conservatives are facing another by-election on the same day. Victory will likely go to the party that can connect with residents, of whom almost 35 percent rented rather than owned their own home at the 2021 census.

In the district of South Glouces-

tershire—home to Kingswood— house prices have roughly doubled since 2005 to an average of £345,100, some 21 percent above the national average. Wellingborough saw similar percentage increases during the period albeit to an average of £243,700.

Across the country, home values increased about 80 percent on average over the same period.

The right-wing Reform UK party, founded by Brexit campaigner Nigel Farage, has placed candidates in both by-elections, a sign that concerns about higher immigration is also shaping the votes.

The housing shortfall calculated by Bloomberg is based on government estimates for higher population growth, almost all of which will come from immigration. The Office for National Statistics estimates that the number of people in the UK will hit 70 million by mid-2026, which ministers say will strain public services, from schools to hospitals and housing.

In London, where the construction of new homes dropped to the lowest of any quarter since 2009 between July and September, a lack of homes led to a war of words between Mayor Sadiq Khan and Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove late last year.

Conservative MP Gove threatened to strip Labour’s Khan of his planning powers if he refused to agree to a review of housebuilding in the capital.

Gove also announced a series of measures to boost construction. The proposals were met with skepticism by some developers who questioned whether enough staff are available to accelerate planning.

“I always listen attentively to those in local government,” Gove told Bloomberg at a speech in the capital.

“I believe that the resource necessary to deliver will now be there,” he added, saying that the Conservatives are bolstering council resources through extra funding and higher planning fees.

But the data suggests there’s a lot of money needed. Freedom of Information requests compiled by Bloomberg last year show the average annual funding in local government planning departments has tumbled 44 percent since 2010, while the av-

erage number of employees in those departments has more than halved over the same period.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s hometown of Southampton is among several UK councils seeking emergency financial support to avoid bankruptcy—dozens of which met in Westminster last month to warn about the rising cost of homelessness. Spending in the Levelling Up, Housing and Communities department dropped by about two thirds between 2010-2011 and 2019-2020, according to a Bloomberg analysis of UK Treasury data.

“Applying for planning permission today requires deep pockets and a lot of time,” said Ritchie Clapson, co-founder of real estate development company PropertyCEO. “As a result, we have a massive shortfall in the number of new homes of all types that are being built, including affordable ones.”

The number of private housing units granted planning consent in the UK dropped to the lowest in nine years in 2023, according to Glenigan.

Achieving planning consent also doesn’t guarantee new homes will be built straight away.

Almost 280,000 potential homes with detailed planning consent are yet to get off the ground in the UK, according to Glenigan data based on applications with 10 or more residential units. Roughly one in five of those units are earmarked for London, where more than 50,000 potential units have yet to commence construction, according to the data.

“The Conservatives set out their stall in December 2022 when they gave up on housing numbers,” Rob Perrins, Chief Executive Officer of homebuilder Berkeley Group Holdings Plc, said in a telephone interview.

“I think that was a really poor move and has stopped local plans going to place across the country,” he added, warning that as few as 100,000 homes a year could be built in Britain by 2026, a shortfall he says will harm the entire economy.

House prices in England have risen from less than four times average earnings in the late 1990s to more than eight times. Bloomberg

A20 Wednesday, February 14, 2024

A20

CICC warns public amid ₧1-B cybercrime’s annual profits

C

By Rizal Raoul S. Reyes @brownindio

YBERCRIMINALS are finding the Philippines a lucrative place for their nefarious activities, earning an estimated P1 billion annually, according to the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center.

“We urge victims of cybercrime to proactively report to the CICC. We have the Inter-Agency Response Center [IARC] which responds to cybercrime complaints and recovery of hacked accounts,” said Executive Director Alexander Ramos of the Department of Information and Communications Technology-Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (DICT-CICC) in a press statement. The CICC forms the crux of the partnership, as it serves as the main receiving government agency for all cybercrime reports of the public.

In line with the celebration of the highly-commercialized “love month,” stakeholders led by Converge ICT Solutions recently formed a partnership with the DICT-CICC and cybersecurity protection organization Scam Watch Pilipinas along with other private sector partners to launch UnMatchPH, an information awareness campaign to guard against cyber ‘love scams.’

According to ScamWatch Pilipinas, relationship-based online fraud, in the context of a romance, has long been prevalent in the Philippines but

may see a surge this February.

The IARC is the centralized cybercrime response interagency collaboration of the CICC, DICT, National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) and National Privacy Commission (NPC) with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) as its law enforcement arm.

With the start of “love month,” ScamWatch PH, Converge, its government and nongovernment partners are reiterating their message for the public to remain vigilant against romance scams which prey on Filipinos and foreigners alike.

“With this collaboration, we are officially kicking off our Safer Internet campaign this February. We believe that education is key in combating these cybercriminals. As an internet service provider, we want to make sure that our network is not being used for illegal activities. We have always been an advocate of a safe online experience for everyone,” said Converge Vice President and Corporate Communications and Public Relations Head Jay-Anne Encarnado.

The UnMatchPH campaign will involve social media information dissemination and content through Converge and Scam Watch Pilipinas channels and publications in newspapers warning the public, especially women, on the dangers of romance scams.

“Scams are prevalent and continue to increase. Based on what we’ve seen, love scams fall in several categories. People need to call 1326 and report these incidents so first we can gather data and whenever possible, repair the damage,” said Scam Watch Pilipinas Co-Founder and Co-Lead Convenor Jocel de Guzman.

Scams of this type are expected to rise because of the commercialization of Valentine’s Day. According to Scamwatch, the three pillars of cybersecurity culture are government, private sector, and the weakest link – the individual, according to Art Samaniego, Jr., Scam Watch Pilipinas Co-Lead Convenor In a recent press briefing, Scam Watch Pilipinas presented the eight most common love scam profiles that proliferate among the public.

Other partners, BPI Philippines, GoTyme Bank, and Gogolook all expressed their support for the campaign. ScamWatch warned that these scams often start as “matches” online, whether through dating apps or social media.

ScamWatch Pilipinas urged the public to save the Inter-Agency Response Center (IARC) Hotline 1326 on their mobile devices in case of need.

P27-B FUNDS FOR POOR IN BUDGET USED FOR ‘P.I.’?

By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM

S

ENATORS on Tuesday assailed the questionable inclusion of nearly P27 billion in funds in the 2024 budget for the “AKAP” program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development supposedly as payouts for poor families, but for which the DSWD had no clear guidelines yet, even as a promise of AKAP benefits were apparently used to lure thousands of people to sign on a People’s Initiative campaign for Charter change plot.

At the continuation of the Senate Committee on Electoral Reforms inquiry into the People’s Initiative that has been frozen by a Commission on Elections order to its field offices to stop accepting the signature sheets, Senator Imee Marcos was aghast to realize that the AKAP funds were lodged with DSWD for the 2024 budget bill, when senators do not recall deliberating on such.

Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa affirmed this, saying “at no time” during the 2024 budget deliberations did he recall such AKAP funds being part of the National Expenditure Program (NEP) or the General Appropriations Bill (GAB).

DSWD Undersecretary Fatima Aliah Dimaporo was grilled at length by Senator Marcos, but while she admitted that the depart-

ment was still finalizing guidelines for distributing the funds, it was a “happy problem” because it meant more funding for the marginalized.

Senators then explained that lawmakers do not dispute the wisdom of allotting more funds to the poor, but the issue is, such social alleviation schemes should not be used for a dubious people’s initiative that they suspect to be at the behest of politicians.

Also at the hearing, Senator Bong Go appealed to the government agencies not to misuse funds for the poor that are lodged with them.

Senator Go, who heads the Senate health committee, particularly asked the Department of Health not to allow the Medical Assistance for Indigent Persons (MAIP) lodged with them to be used for political campaigns. In reply, DOH representatives strongly denied having allowed the MAIP to be used for any political campaign, particularly the PI signature drive.

Also at Tuesday’s hearing, Marcos reminded Pirma lead convenor Noel Oñate to submit the documents required by the committee.

“From the Pirma, we still have not received the actual cost of printing of the signature forms. I think Rep. Rodante Marcoleta made some estimate and they were significant sums and yet we do not have the cost of printing,” Marcos said.

Continued on A6

Chiz: Pay hike won’t bust economy

A

LL AYING businessmen’s usu a l hesit at ion about granting wage increases to workers, Senator Chiz Escudero on Tuesday gave assurances that such pay hikes “will not bust the economy.”

“If some self-proclaimed business leaders had their way, wages would have remained the same for the last 40 years as they have not in one instance been concerned by and supported any move to raise workers’ pay,” Escudero said.

“Joining them are ivory tower individuals who love to preach about the economics of running a business when they themselves have not even managed a sari-sari store.”

In a statement, Escudero rued that “whenever talks on raising the minimum wage begin, whether in Congress or in wage boards … these are always met with the shrill warnings of these individuals that the economy will go bust if we give workers their due.”

And yet each time after the fresh round of wage hikes has been implemented, “hindi naman gumuho ang lupa [the earth has not crumbled] and the sky is still up there and has not fallen.”

At the same time, Escudero scored the contrasting reception that tax breaks for business and wage hikes for workers receive.

Continued on A6

Editor: Jennifer A. Ng

Companies BusinessMirror

Wednesday, February 14, 2024

B1

Govt to fast-track permits SEC wants more firms to go public for wind and solar projects

T

By Andrea E. San Juan

@andreasanjuan

wo wind power projects in Negros Occidental and Iloilo and a solar power project in Pangasinan have been granted green lane certificates by the One-Stop Action Center for Strategic Investments (OSACSI), according to the Board of Investments (BOI).

The attached agency of the Department of Trade and Industry said the government gave its nod to the partnership of Triconti Windkraft and Sea Wind Holdings AG for their wind projects last January 12.

It said Guimaras Strait Wind Power Project (under Triconti Southwind Corp.) and Guimaras Strait II Wind Power Project (under Jet Stream Windkraft Corp.) were among the first to be awarded offshore wind energy service contracts by the Department of Energy.

With a combined initial investment cost of P221.6 billion, BOI noted that the two projects will op-

erate offshore in Negros Occidental and Iloilo Province. It also noted this has a total target capacity of 1.2 gigawatts (GW).

The Triconti-Seawind partnership is currently developing over 1.65 GW of offshore wind capacity in Luzon and the Visayas.

In terms of economic impact, the BOI said 3,600 direct and indirect jobs could be generated by these projects.

Aside from the demand for local labor, BOI said the project will “boost” economic activity in Negros and Iloilo because of the possible development of eco-tourism.

Solar project

BOI Managing Head Ceferino S. Rodolfo said he handed the green lane certificate of endorsement to Burgos Pangasinan Solar Energy (BPSEC) officials for their P2.7-billion solar project last January 31.

BOI said the project, which is expected to operate in September 2026, is a “ground-mount” solar power plant over an area of approximately 71.5 hectares with a target installed capacity of 65 MWp or 50 MWac. As to its economic impact, the agency said the project is expected to generate over 500 jobs for Filipinos during its construction and operations.

According to the BOI, BPSEC is a special purpose vehicle, duly registered under the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), specifically created to develop the solar power project.

BPSEC is a development company of Rising Renewables Holdings Inc. (RRHI), a registered Filipino renewable energy (RE) platform focused on initiating and developing “highquality” RE assets for both foreign and local investors, the agency added.

The BOI said OSACSI, as the agency’s single point of entry for all projects qualified as “strategic

investments,” will coordinate with the local officials of the Province of Pangasinan to endorse the project to facilitate its permitting and licensing processes at the local level.

Since the approval of Executive Order (EO) 18 last February 2023, the BOI said OSACSI has endorsed 36 projects for green lane services.

Of which, 28 are renewable energy projects (floating solar, solar, onshore wind, offshore wind and geothermal.) The agency said these 36 projects are worth P1.196 trillion.

The EO 18 is a “government-wide response” aimed at “enhancing” ease of doing business by mandating the creation of green lane units in all government agencies that will expedite, streamline, and automate government processes for Strategic Investments.

According to the BOI, an investment would be considered “strategic” if it has significant capital or investment in the country; has a consequential economic impact; has a “positive impact” on the environment; has a significant contribution to the country’s balance of payments; has complex technical processes and engineering designs; and will bring about improvement in the country’s infrastructure capabilities.

A Brown offers preferred shares

By VG Cabuag @villygc

A

Brown Company Inc. (ABCI), a listed diversified firm, has started offering its P1.5-billion preferred shares after securing the green light from the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE).

A Brown is offering 10 million preferred shares, comprising series B and C, priced at P100 per share. An oversubscription option for an additional 5 million preferred shares has also been granted by the PSE. The proceeds from this fundraising initiative will be dedicated to the

SPNEC now part of MSCI index

S

P New Energy Corp. (SPNEC) has made it to the exclusive MSCI Philippines Small Cap Index, the only addition to the closely watched gauge in its recent review.

The solar firm will replace Mreit Inc., the real estate investment trust of businessman Andrew Tan’s Megaworld Corp.

The MSCI Global Small Cap Indexes revealed the changes early this week, which will take effect at the close of market by the end of the month.

Global index provider MSCI rebalances its indices semi-annually and quarterly.

SPNEC is the only company to be included in the list in this current review. Amid the MSCI Philippines Small Cap Index inclusion, investors gobbled up the stock, with shares rising by 6 percent as of mid-day on Tuesday.

It closed at P1.23 per share.

The positive development for SNPEC is expected to further stimulate investor’s interest in the stock.

SPNEC has recently been acquired by the Pangilinan Group, through MGen Renewable Energy Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Meralco Powergen Corp. VG Cabuag

development of the company’s residential projects in Mindanao and Luzon, land banking efforts and other general corporate purposes.

“We are delighted to have received the PSE’s approval for our preferred shares offering,” company CEO Robert Pizarro said.

“This marks an important milestone for ABCI as we continue to pursue our vision of creating sustainable and thriving communities.”

The offer period will run from February 12 to February 16 while listing on the PSE is set on February 23.

PNB Capital and Investment

Corp. is the sole issue manager, lead underwriter, and sole bookrunner for preferred shares offering.

In 2021 the company raised a total of P1.33 billion from its maiden preferred shares offering.

The company expects to complete next month its Tanay Electron Beam and cold storage facility, which it funded through its maiden offering in 2021. It is expected to contribute to its earnings starting this year.

The P700-million facility is now in the equipment installation and commissioning phase and will have the capacity to treat 20,000 tons of food products and medical

devices annually.

A Brown is a Mindanao-based property developer with a diversified portfolio covering residential and commercial real estate projects.

Beyond real estate, the company has also ventured into power generation, public utilities and agribusiness.

The company said its net income in January to September 2023 rose by 13 percent to P248.7 million from the P220.27 million recorded in 2022.

Revenue streams from real estate sales, sale of agricultural goods and water service income reached P329.1 million, a 9-percent growth from the P302.62 million posted in 2022.

MSCI to remove swath of China stocks from indexes

M

SCI Inc. is cutting dozens of Chinese companies from its global benchmarks following a market rout that’s erased trillions of dollars in value from the nation’s stocks.

The index provider is removing 66 companies from its MSCI China Index in its latest quarterly review, the highest tally in at least two years.

The changes, effective as of the close on Feb. 29, also apply to the MSCI All Country World Index. Stocks to be cut include property developers Gemdale Corp. and Greentown China Holdings Ltd., as well as China Southern Airlines Co. and Ping An Healthcare and Technology Co. The removals add to risks for China’s already beaten-down market as index-hugging funds will have to purge these stocks from their portfolios. There’s at least $5.9 billion in exchange-traded funds tracking the MSCI China Index, the largest of which is the US-listed iShares MSCI China ETF, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.

China’s weighting in global portfolios has been slumping amid worries about its struggling property sector and weak consumption, and as alternatives such as India become more prominent. In a sign of the deep

People practice tai chi in front of buildings in Pudong’s Lujiazui Financial District in Shanghai, China, on Monday, January 29, 2024. Photographer: Raul Ariano/Bloomberg

pessimism about the China and Hong Kong stock markets, equity rallies spurred by a slew of policy support measures last week faded within a few sessions ahead of the Lunar New Year holidays.

“It highlights the issue of negative flows for Chinese stocks as investors reduce exposure to the country, in large part due to recent weak fundamentals, but also fears of ongoing financial instability, regulatory uncertainty, and—most of all—country risk,” said Kyle Rodda, senior market analyst at Capital.Com Inc. “Some investors may also be

forced to liquidate because of losses already incurred or because certain companies no longer fall within investment mandates,” he added.

Three stocks will be deleted from the Hong Kong index as well: Budweiser Brewing Co. APAC Ltd., New World Development Co. and Xinyi Glass Holdings Ltd. The changes weren’t all about cuts, though. Five companies will be added to the MSCI China Index, including electrical-appliance maker Midea Group Co. and skintreatment company Giant Biogene Holding Co. Bloomberg News

BusinessMirror file photo

By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario

T

he Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is aiming to facilitate the initial public offering (IPO) of 15 companies this year.

This number is more than double the 6 IPOs expected by the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) for the year and 5 times more than the 3 companies that went public last year.

SEC Chairman Emilio B. Aquino said this is consistent with the aim of increasing the number of companies tapping the capital market to expand and grow their businesses.

“For IPOs, we hope, although we just got three last year, a lot of followers though, we want to at least hit 15 [IPOs this year],” Aquino said.

Aquino said, however, that the figure is “aspirational.” He told reporters that some companies are waiting for the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) to cut rates.

For SEC’s 88th year, he said, the

agency is targeting to increase the number of companies tapping the capital market to 888 companies. The Philippine SEC is the second oldest in the world.

Currently, Aquino said 686 firms have tapped the capital markets. This represents 77 percent of the SEC’s goal of 888 companies.

“They’re just waiting. This will happen in May. We’re hoping for the best. We don’t want to give you [bearish] news [again]. Let’s just help our country,” he said in a mix of English and Filipino.

Last week, share prices surged for the third consecutive week, with the main index reaching the 6,800-point level, on the optimism of investors that the Chinese year of the Wood Dragon will be profitable for the market.

The benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange index gained 142.91 points to close at 6,850.16 points.

Investors were also elated with the January inflation print of 2.8 percent, which was at the lower end of the target range of the BSP.

Arthur Tan to step down as CEO of Ayala-led IMI

A

yala-led Integrated Micro-electronics Inc. (IMI) is not rehiring Arthur R. Tan as its chief executive officer (CEO) when his term expires on April 25.

Tan has helmed IMI for the past 22 years. He has been the driving force behind IMI’s transformation from a Philippine-based contract manufacturing company catering to largely Japanese OEMs to one of the top 25 Global EMS and top 10 Global Auto EMS players with extensive capabilities and operations serving global tier-1 and OEM customers.

In a special board meeting on Tuesday, IMI’s board has approved the CEO transition plan. Its board identified and vetted Lou Hughes as a candidate for the role of the company’s chief executive.

“Mr. Hughes, a highly experienced professional with extensive global C-suite experience in sales, engineering, sourcing and operations, will be nominated to succeed Art as CEO of IMI.” Hughes was previously a senior manager at General Electric; COO of Universal Electronics, a Nasdaq-listed EMS company; and CEO of Beyonics, a contract manufacturer headquartered in Singapore.

Hughes will assume his position as CEO of IMI in May. “IMI’s board of directors is confident that Mr. Hughes will lead IMI with the same level of dedication, innovation, and excellence that is expected by our customers and stakeholders and assures its stakeholders of IMI’s commitment to maintaining operational continuity and delivering value during this transition period,” it said.

“IMI will continue to uphold the highest standards of corporate governance and transparency throughout this process.”

The company reported that its losses widened to $85.26 million in January to September 2023, from the previous year’s $4.07 million. The figure includes losses from STI Limited as IMI worked on closing the divestment transaction with Rcapital.

Revenues fell 3 percent to $340.75 million, from the previous year’s $351.24 million The drop in demand is largely driven by a general slowdown across the electronics industry with companies tightening working capital levels amid excess inventory in the supply chain, the company said. VG Cabuag

B2

Companies BusinessMirror

Wednesday, February 14, 2024

Japan’s Tokai hikes stake in Pure Energy subsidiary

T

By Lenie Lectura

pansion plans as we look to build a presence in markets we have yet to serve.”

Tokai is the consolidated subsidiary of Tokai Holdings Corp., a Japan-listed conglomerate engaged in the energy business, such as the sale of liquefied petroleum gas.

Primarily known as a developer of run-of-the-river hydropower plants, R EDC recently completed the development of its 5.8 megawatt (MW) Tibag plant and 1.4 MW Lower Labayat plant in Quezon. These two plants are expected to increase REDC’s overall power generation capacity by 50 percent.

Two more plants are currently under construction, with the 15 MW Cabanglasan plant in Bukidnon expected to be commissioned ahead of schedule in 2025.

REDC raised some P1 billion from its IPO last July 2023. The company said it will use the proceeds to fund the equity portion of its hydropower projects, the development and acquisition of renewable energy projects and operating and for its working capital requirements.

@llectura

okai Corp. will increase its stake in Repower Energy Development Corp.

(REDC), a subsidiary of Pure Energy Holdings Corp., to 20.1 percent.

Tokai, which was an anchor investor to REDC’s initial public offering (IPO) by purchasing a 10-percent stake, will purchase an additional 65.1 million shares.

The shares will be bought at P7.47 apiece, which was based on the average daily volumeweighted average price from January 1 to 31.

Tokai will have a seat in REDC ’s board as result of this additional investment.

This investment, the company added, is part of its initiatives to achieve carbon neutrality throughout its operations by 2050, and “signifies confidence in REDC’s profitabilit y and long-ter m grow th potential.”

“Tokai’s additional investment in REDC signifies the strengthening partnership between the two companies, will enhance the corporate value of REDC, and it shall create synergy for both of us in developing projects locally and internationally,” said REDC President Eric Peter Y. Roxas. “ This additional capital shall serve as fuel for our ex-

MUTUAL FUNDS

February 13, 2024

NAV

One Year Three Year

per share

Five Year

Y-T-D

Return*

Return

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

221.42

ATRAM Alpha Opportunity Fund, Inc. -a

2.43%

-0.51%

-3.75%

-0.16%

1.5004

3.28%

4.53%

-0.97%

5.06% 1.91%

1.87%

1.76%

-0.27%

-5.85%

-1.92%

Climbs Share Capital Equity Investment Fund Corp. -a 0.7114

0.37%

-3.24%

-5.61% n.a

First Metro Consumer Fund, Inc. -a

-2.62%

-5.59% n.a

4.83%

-0.26%

-2.79%

4.62%

ATRAM Philippine Equity Opportunity Fund, Inc. -a 0.6558

3.08 -6.31%

First Metro Save and Learn Equity Fund, Inc. -a 4.84380.13%

0.04%

First Metro Save and Learn Philippine Index Fund, Inc. -a 0.7272-0.57%

-0.1% n.a n.a

MBG Equity Investment Fund, Inc. -a

83.49

2.44%

-5.72%

-7.27% n.a

PAMI Equity Index Fund, Inc. -a 45.226

0.16%

-0.84%

-2.98% n.a

5.39%

2.23%

Philam Strategic Growth Fund, Inc. -a

470.14

-0.95%

-3.03%

-0.11%

5.09%

Philequity Dividend Yield Fund, Inc. -a

1.2343

1.23%

1.97%

-1.38%

2.29%

2.41%

0.91%

0.66%

-2.03%

1.64%

4.51%

Philequity MSCI Philippine Index Fund, Inc. -a 0.91042.55%

0.31%

-2.73% n.a

5.02%

Philequity PSE Index Fund, Inc. -a

4.7488

0.96%

0.02%

-2.23%

1.55%

5.29%

Philippine Stock Index Fund Corp. -a

790.34

0.9%

-0.16%

-2.3%

1.53%

5.31%

Soldivo Strategic Growth Fund, Inc. -a

0.7163

1.96%

0.13%

-4.69% n.a

4.46%

Sun Life Prosperity Philippine Equity Fund, Inc. -a 3.5596

0.86%

-0.25%

-3.81%

0.06%

Sun Life Prosperity Philippine Stock Index Fund, Inc. -a 0.8965 0.69%

-0.45%

-2.59% n.a

United Fund, Inc. -a

0.94%

4.65%

3.2352

-0.07%

-0.67%

-2.73%

1.82%

5.01%

-1.76%

Philequity Fund, Inc. -a

35.1514

4.57%

5.81% 5.35%

Primarily invested in Peso securities (units) COL Equity Index Unitized Mutual Fund, Inc. -a 1.11020.74% n.a n.a n.a

5.17%

COL Strategic Growth Equity Unitized Mutual Fund, Inc. -a,2 1.0185 n.a n.a n.a n.a 1.37% Philequity Alpha One Fund, Inc. -a

1.0396

-7.2%

-1.05% n.a n.a

2.02%

Philippine Stock Index Fund Corp. -a

959.66

0.87% n.a n.a n.a

5.33%

Exchange Traded Fund (shares) First Metro Phil. Equity Exchange Traded Fund, Inc. -a,c 107.44941.53% 0.27%

-1.98%

2.23%

Primarily invested in foreign currency securities (shares) AsiaPlus Equity Fund, Inc. -b $0.7928

-13.55%

-16.05%

-4.28%

-1.5%

Sun Life Prosperity World Voyager Fund, Inc. -a

$1.7312

13.95%

-0.94%

5.41% ATRAM

-3.55% 7.43% n.a

4.18%

Balanced Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities (shares) ATRAM Philippine Balanced Fund, Inc. -a 2.2509

-0.51%

0.63%

1.68%

ATRAM Unicapital Diversified Growth Fund, Inc. -a,41.5485

4.71%

-2.46%

-2.19%

-1.18%

2.51%

First Metro Save and Learn Balanced Fund, Inc. -a 2.5685

4.36%

-0.23% -0.43%

-0.45%

-0.7%

-0.51%

2.88%

First Metro Save and Learn F.O.C.C.U.S. Dynamic Fund, Inc. -a 0.1971

-2.57%

0.1% n.a n.a

3.52% NCM Mutual Fund of the Phils., Inc. -a

1.9852

-0.73%

0.31%

0.72%

1.67%

PAMI Horizon Fund, Inc. -a

3.6497

2.79%

-1.03%

0.03%

0.82%

2.64%

Philam Fund, Inc. -a

15.9932

2.91%

-1.71%

-0.61%

0.52%

2.76%

Solidaritas Fund, Inc. -a

2.0805

2.03%

-0.07%

2.7%

-0.73%

1.33%

2.59%

Sun Life of Canada Prosperity Balanced Fund, Inc. -a 3.5084

1.94%

-0.46%

-1.75%

0.39%

Sun Life Prosperity Dynamic Fund, Inc. -a 0.9288

1.58%

-0.82% n.a

2.71%

1.49%

2.95%

Primarily invested in Peso securities (units) Sun Life Prosperity Achiever Fund 2028, Inc. -a 0.95171.2%

-2.14%

-0.9% n.a

1.21%

Sun Life Prosperity Achiever Fund 2038, Inc. -a 0.87830.33%

-2.27%

-2.45% n.a

3.68%

Sun Life Prosperity Achiever Fund 2048, Inc. -a 0.8598-0.09%

-2.39%

-2.85% n.a

4.14%

Primarily invested in foreign currency securities (shares) Cocolife Dollar Fund Builder, Inc. -a $0.03268

-0.46%

-5.57%

-1.74%

0.03%

PAMI Asia Balanced Fund, Inc. -b $0.8818

-9.61%

-1.94%

-0.99%

-3.64%

Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Advantage Fund, Inc. -a $4.3884

-8.71%

8.71%

-2.48%

4.41%

Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Wellspring Fund, Inc. -a $1.0423

3.43%

-4.3%

-1.6% 3.23%

0.82% n.a

2.25% 0.12%

Bond Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities (shares) ALFM Peso Bond Fund, Inc. -a 391.76

3.2%

1.77%

2.56%

ATRAM Corporate Bond Fund, Inc. -a

1.9174

1.44%

0.22%

0.61%

0.14%

0.45%

Cocolife Fixed Income Fund, Inc. -a

3.3359

2.4%

1.2%

2.23%

3.74%

0.32%

3%

-0.22%

1.24%

1.55%

-0.22%

1.53%

0.07%

1.96%

Ekklesia Mutual Fund, Inc. -a 2.2811

First Metro Save and Learn Fixed Income Fund, Inc. -a 2.4535 Philam Bond Fund, Inc. -a

4.309

-2.39%

1.96%

0.32%

1.3%

1.14%

0.26%

Philam Managed Income Fund, Inc. -a

1.3842

3.97%

1.51%

3.14%

1.86%

0.8%

Philequity Peso Bond Fund, Inc. -a

4.0394

2.66%

0.46%

2.43%

1.84%

0.12%

Soldivo Bond Fund, Inc. -a

2.48%

1.0522

2.94%

2.34%

0.43%

2.94% n.a

0.24%

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

3.3078

3.35%

1.06%

3.17%

2.36%

Sun Life Prosperity GS Fund, Inc. -a

2.56%

0.31%

2.34%

1.72%

-0.24%

1.7652

-0.15%

-0.15%

Corporate Debt Vehicle (units) ATRAM Unitized Corporate Debt Vehicle, Inc. -a,3

1.0164 n.a n.a n.a n.a

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

$496.82

2.73%

0.79%

1.97%

2.49%

0.32%

ALFM Euro Bond Fund, Inc. -a Є214.25

1.5%

-0.8%

0.01%

0.78%

0.12%

ATRAM Total Return Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -b $1.0333-0.78% -6.57%

-2.03%

First Metro Save and Learn Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -a $0.0248 2.48%

-2.06%

-0.16% n.a

PAMI Global Bond Fund, Inc. -b $0.8506

-4.08%

-3.21%

-0.79%

Philam Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -a

0.08%

-7.92%

$2.2894

2.73%

-3.26%

0.64%

1.79%

-1.31%

1.45%

-0.75%

1.3%

1.58%

0.44%

-0.25%

-5.05%

-1.23%

0.38%

Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Abundance Fund, Inc. -a $2.7486

ALFM

-0.91%

-1.28%

Philequity Dollar Income Fund, Inc. -a $0.0611822

0.87%

-0.4%

-3%

Money Market Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities (shares) ALFM Money Market Fund, Inc. -a 137.37

2.91%

1.85%

2.47%

First Metro Save and Learn Money Market Fund, Inc. -a 1.1131 3.36% Sun Life Prosperity Peso Starter Fund, Inc. -a 1.38072.89%

2.06%

2.07% 2% 2.43%

0.37% 2.14% n.a 2.06%

0.42%

0.36%

Primarily invested in Peso securities (units) ALFM Money Market Fund, Inc. -a 105.14

4.25% n.a n.a n.a

0.54%

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

$1.1029

2.82%

1.53%

1.6% n.a

0.49%

Feeder Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities (units) ALFM Global Multi-Asset Income Fund, Inc. -a 43.2908-0.14% n.a n.a n.a Sun Life Prosperity World Equity Index Feeder Fund, Inc. -a

1.5193

17.31%

0.41%

8.72% n.a n.a

3.41% Sun Life Prosperity World Income Fund, Inc. -a,1

1.0068 n.a n.a n.a n.a

0.71%

Primarily invested in foreign currency securities (Units) ALFM Global Multi-Asset Income Fund, Inc. -a $0.797-2.88% a - NAVPS as of the previous banking day.

1 - Launch date is August 22, 2023.

-6.97% n.a n.a

b - NAVPS as of two banking days ago.

2 - Launch date is October 6, 2023.

-0.71%

c - Listed in the PSE.

3 - Launch date is May 25, 2023

4 - Renaming was approved by the SEC last May 21, 2020 (formerly, ATRAM Dynamic Allocation Fund, Inc.) “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.”

www.businessmirror.com.ph

PSE STOCK QUOTATIONS

February 13, 2024

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

ASIA UNITED BDO UNIBANK BANK COMMERCE BANK PH ISLANDS CHINABANK CITYSTATE BANK EAST WEST BANK METROBANK PB BANK PHIL NATL BANK PSBANK RCBC SECURITY BANK UNION BANK BRIGHT KINDLE COL FINANCIAL FERRONOUX HLDG MEDCO HLDG MANULIFE NTL REINSURANCE PHIL STOCK EXCH SUN LIFE VANTAGE

136,700 280,002,387 182,420 330,269,770 10,313,630 12,500 659,725 141,013,686 129,630 7,445,924 6,050 1,400,675 6,517,119.50 7,279,260 144,820 25,000 41,220 1,180 341,990 7,750 451,434 2,509,000 1,344,610

123,375,458 -1,300 86,536,219 139,565 4,375 25,066,978 -176,298 -726,750 1,882,160 -3,108,530 330,000 -138,095 2,509,000 225,000

INDUSTRIAL ACEN CORP 4.2 4.23 4.27 4.27 4.15 4.23 7,000,000 29,437,250 ALSONS CONS 0.52 0.53 0.52 0.53 0.52 0.53 23,000 12,040 0.78 0.79 0.78 0.79 0.77 0.78 891,000 694,970 ALTERNERGY HLDG ABOITIZ POWER 37.95 38 37.75 38.1 37.5 38 1,376,600 52,271,665 RASLAG 1.19 1.21 1.19 1.21 1.19 1.21 78,000 93,250 BASIC ENERGY 0.21 0.214 0.218 0.218 0.205 0.214 11,320,000 2,388,390 18.34 18.36 18.2 18.36 18.1 18.34 278,100 5,084,938 FIRST GEN 65 65.25 64.9 65 64.85 65 44,100 2,864,902 FIRST PHIL HLDG MERALCO 355.6 357.6 360 361 355.6 355.6 404,210 144,524,716 MANILA WATER 18.62 18.64 18.56 18.62 18.4 18.62 580,100 10,764,378 3.26 3.27 3.26 3.27 3.23 3.27 502,000 1,633,400 PETRON 4.27 4.64 4.32 4.32 4.3 4.3 21,000 90,410 PETROENERGY PHX PETROLEUM 4.03 4.18 4.2 4.2 4.2 4.2 2,000 8,400 REPOWER ENERGY 7.11 7.26 7.11 7.26 7.11 7.26 21,100 152,276 32.6 32.65 32.7 32.8 32.55 32.6 518,800 16,933,815 SEMIRARA MINING 7.85 7.87 7.79 7.9 7.66 7.85 1,664,700 13,030,318 SYNERGY GRID SHELL PILIPINAS 10.7 10.78 10.7 10.78 10.62 10.78 22,300 237,516 SPC POWER 8.53 8.58 8.38 8.6 8.29 8.58 282,900 2,406,327 1.22 1.23 1.19 1.24 1.19 1.23 96,765,000 118,018,130 SP NEW ENERGY 0.55 0.56 0.58 0.59 0.55 0.56 2,990,000 1,716,210 AGRINURTURE AXELUM 2.25 2.3 2.25 2.25 2.25 2.25 165,000 371,250 CNTRL AZUCARERA 18.9 19 21 21 18.54 19 132,700 2,585,467 35.6 36 35.4 36 35.35 35.6 1,041,700 37,142,705 CENTURY FOOD 5.88 5.89 5.86 5.9 5.86 5.89 5,600 33,001 DEL MONTE DNL INDUS 6.69 6.7 6.66 6.71 6.65 6.7 1,869,000 12,519,401 EMPERADOR 20.5 20.55 20.6 20.7 20.45 20.5 131,300 2,691,730 50 50.1 50.2 50.5 50 50 16,990 850,071.50 SMC FOODANDBEV 0.69 0.7 0.7 0.71 0.69 0.7 6,736,000 4,693,690 FIGARO COFFEE ALLIANCE SELECT 0.445 0.49 0.445 0.445 0.445 0.445 40,000 17,800 FRUITAS HLDG 0.83 0.84 0.83 0.84 0.82 0.83 638,000 528,550 162 163 164.7 164.7 162 163 14,050 2,296,307 GINEBRA 258 260 257.8 261.8 257.8 258 143,570 37,220,864 JOLLIBEE KEEPERS HLDG 1.42 1.43 1.43 1.43 1.42 1.42 150,000 213,220 LIBERTY FLOUR 14.04 14.76 15.98 15.98 14.76 14.76 500 7,706 5.62 6.28 5.6 6.28 5.6 6.28 3,100 17,428 MACAY HLDG MAXS GROUP 3.35 3.4 3.34 3.46 3.34 3.34 197,000 658,830 MONDE NISSIN 10.34 10.36 9.97 10.38 9.88 10.36 13,564,200 139,141,059 SHAKEYS PIZZA 10.7 10.72 10.6 10.7 10.6 10.7 135,000 1,441,692 0.59 0.6 0.6 0.62 0.58 0.59 4,170,000 2,495,660 ROXAS AND CO 2.94 2.98 2.95 2.98 2.93 2.98 457,000 1,347,530 RFM CORP SWIFT FOODS 0.058 0.065 0.064 0.064 0.064 0.064 200,000 12,800 UNIV ROBINA 111.5 111.7 111 113.2 110.8 111.7 903,990 101,176,193 0.495 0.51 0.495 0.51 0.495 0.51 34,000 16,860 VITARICH CEMEX HLDG 1.75 1.76 1.73 1.86 1.72 1.75 33,801,000 60,411,110 EC VULCAN CORP 0.63 0.66 0.64 0.66 0.63 0.63 258,000 162,640 EEI CORP 5.52 5.57 5.59 5.62 5.52 5.52 64,400 358,500 3.26 3.28 3.24 3.3 3.24 3.26 116,000 379,400 MEGAWIDE 20.2 20.35 19.8 20.35 19.8 20.35 600 12,155 PHINMA TKC METALS 0.47 0.485 0.47 0.5 0.47 0.49 90,000 44,500 CROWN ASIA 1.65 1.68 1.69 1.69 1.66 1.69 81,000 136,200 0.73 0.78 0.74 0.78 0.73 0.78 43,000 31,740 EUROMED PRYCE CORP 5.19 5.2 5.2 5.3 5.2 5.2 187,700 976,713 CONCEPCION 13 13.12 13 13.12 13 13.12 1,400 18,304 GREENERGY 0.221 0.223 0.225 0.225 0.221 0.223 3,400,000 759,070 2.43 2.48 2.48 2.48 2.43 2.43 342,000 836,160 INTEGRATED MICR 1.18 1.19 1.17 1.2 1.17 1.18 2,251,000 2,680,930 IONICS PANASONIC 4.92 5.12 5.12 5.12 4.92 4.92 4,300 21,569 SFA SEMICON 2.4 2.45 2.46 2.49 2.45 2.45 412,000 1,020,320 1.89 1.9 1.88 1.9 1.85 1.89 273,000 515,250 CIRTEK HLDG

42,040 -17,546,435 60,690 -512,290 -7,514 1,439,488.00 -72,799,692 -1,404,272 -1,125,920 2,353,105 -1,727,776 -1,062 -37,450 24,900,000 -534,960 -213,750 -28,360 -2,101,975 -2,386,460 -696,810 -588,262 1,305,550 17,800 8,280 1,658,936 17,709,918 80,160 13,098,318.00 -47,700 -148,200 -2,717,118 -2,966,780 9,760 -1,980 -18,304 -119,520 -903,720 -

ABACORE CAPITAL AYALA CORP ABOITIZ EQUITY ALLIANCE GLOBAL ANSCOR ANGLO PHIL HLDG ATN HLDG A COSCO CAPITAL DMCI HLDG FILINVEST DEV GT CAPITAL JG SUMMIT KEPPEL HLDG A LOPEZ HLDG LT GROUP MABUHAY HLDG PACIFICA HLDG PRIME MEDIA SOLID GROUP SM INVESTMENTS SAN MIGUEL CORP TOP FRONTIER ZEUS HLDG

290,700 36,032,805 1,519,730 1,596,906.00 35,880 830,780.00 -502,048 -588,874 111,739,475 2,672,020 447,268 -57,883,760 -3,359,484 -23,064 -

HOLDING & FRIMS

35.4 152 6.23 113.5 33.75 8 8.78 59 8.7 19.2 53.65 23.65 72.8 44.9 1.03 2.45 2.72 0.088 1,100 0.385 185 2,600 0.77

1.09 720 46 11.54 11.94 0.4 0.355 5.1 11.28 5.5 700 39 5.5 4.3 9.63 0.133 1.11 2.41 0.97 903 108.2 96.1 0.078

35.5 152.4 6.7 113.7 33.8 8.5 8.79 59.5 8.75 19.24 55 23.75 73 44.95 1.05 2.5 2.76 0.127 1,200 0.445 189 2,648 0.8

1.1 721 46.6 11.6 11.96 0.43 0.37 5.13 11.4 5.55 709.5 39.15 7.45 4.4 9.68 0.142 1.42 2.51 1 906 109 99 0.089

35.5 150.8 6.7 114.4 33.15 8 8.75 59.5 8.7 18.84 55 23.4 72.7 45 1.06 2.5 2.74 0.118 1,100 0.39 188 2,600 0.76

1.09 716 46 11.66 11.96 0.4 0.355 5.09 11.1 5.55 696 38.7 5.5 4.26 9.65 0.135 1.11 2.41 1 905.5 108.2 96.1 0.083

35.5 152.9 6.7 114.6 33.75 8.5 8.78 59.85 8.7 19.2 55 23.75 73.2 45.25 1.06 2.5 2.76 0.118 1,199 0.39 189.9 2,600 0.8

1.11 723 46.75 11.66 11.96 0.43 0.355 5.14 11.4 5.55 714.5 39.3 5.5 4.3 9.71 0.135 1.11 2.51 1 915 109.3 96.1 0.083

35 150.8 6.12 113.3 33.15 8 8.74 59 8.7 18.84 55 23.4 72.7 44.9 1.01 2.5 2.74 0.118 1,100 0.385 187 2,600 0.75

1.08 711 46 11.54 11.94 0.4 0.35 5.09 11.06 5.5 688.5 38.7 5.5 4.26 9.62 0.135 1.11 2.41 1 903 108.1 96.1 0.083

35.5 152.4 6.7 113.5 33.75 8.5 8.78 59 8.7 19.2 55 23.75 72.8 44.95 1.05 2.5 2.76 0.118 1,199 0.385 189 2,600 0.8

1.1 720 46 11.6 11.94 0.43 0.35 5.13 11.4 5.5 700 39 5.5 4.3 9.63 0.135 1.11 2.51 1 903 108.2 96.1 0.083

3,900 1,840,070 29,000 2,906,720 308,100 1,500 75,400 2,382,460 14,900 389,100 110 59,100 89,270 161,700 142,000 10,000 15,000 10,000 310 20,000 2,390 965 1,780,000

6,010,000 416,340 334,700 2,507,000 13,000 50,000 540,000 462,100 5,500,100 107,100 405,090 677,100 44,900 60,000 1,203,200 10,000 6,000 2,000 23,000 115,610 79,760 970 10,000

6,596,880 299,097,790 15,452,325 29,089,006 155,464 20,900 191,650 2,362,416 61,759,100 589,424 285,058,915 26,437,635 246,950 256,200 11,639,874 1,350 6,660 4,920 23,000 104,615,335 8,658,532 93,217 830

PROPERTY ARTHALAND CORP 0.425 0.46 0.445 0.46 0.44 0.44 130,000 58,900 AYALA LAND 34.75 34.85 34.55 34.9 34.3 34.85 4,269,600 147,987,045 1.99 2 1.97 2.05 1.93 1.99 4,432,000 8,850,300 AYALA LAND LOG 8.98 9.36 8.96 8.96 8.96 8.96 6,700 60,032 ALTUS PROP ARANETA PROP 1.03 1.04 1.04 1.05 1.02 1.03 267,000 276,700 AREIT RT 34.05 34.1 33.6 34.15 33.6 34.1 616,800 20,944,695 0.63 0.66 0.64 0.66 0.63 0.63 10,000 6,490 A BROWN CITYLAND DEVT 0.69 0.71 0.71 0.71 0.71 0.71 1,000 710 CROWN EQUITIES 0.062 0.063 0.061 0.063 0.061 0.063 330,000 20,400 CEB LANDMASTERS 2.64 2.65 2.62 2.65 2.62 2.64 217,000 572,960 0.27 0.275 0.275 0.275 0.275 0.275 20,000 5,500 CENTURY PROP 2.68 2.69 2.7 2.7 2.68 2.68 1,743,000 4,694,100 CITICORE RT DOUBLEDRAGON 8.33 8.4 8.34 8.5 8.3 8.4 531,900 4,471,717 DDMP RT 1.22 1.23 1.22 1.23 1.22 1.23 1,022,000 1,248,910 5.7 5.95 5.7 5.7 5.7 5.7 1,800 10,260 DM WENCESLAO EMPIRE EAST 0.127 0.129 0.127 0.127 0.127 0.127 200,000 25,400 EVER GOTESCO 0.275 0.285 0.28 0.285 0.28 0.285 140,000 39,500 FILINVEST RT 3.13 3.15 3.15 3.19 3.12 3.15 1,109,000 3,490,890 0.68 0.69 0.68 0.69 0.67 0.69 3,103,000 2,120,610 FILINVEST LAND 0.79 0.84 0.8 0.8 0.79 0.79 800,000 635,940 GLOBAL ESTATE 8990 HLDG 8.98 9.05 8.8 9.05 8.6 9.05 176,400 1,580,340 PHIL INFRADEV 0.51 0.55 0.5 0.55 0.5 0.55 204,000 110,650 5.01 6.77 4.88 6.78 4.88 6.78 4,300 21,678 KEPPEL PROP CITY AND LAND 0.81 0.83 0.83 0.83 0.83 0.83 7,000 5,810 MEGAWORLD 1.97 1.98 2 2 1.96 1.97 15,787,000 31,167,650 MRC ALLIED 1.23 1.24 1.25 1.29 1.21 1.24 348,000 425,910 13.42 13.44 13.74 13.78 13.38 13.42 2,534,500 34,012,204 MREIT RT 0.37 0.395 0.385 0.395 0.37 0.37 230,000 88,200 PHIL ESTATES PREMIERE RT 1.58 1.6 1.58 1.6 1.58 1.6 303,000 482,830 RL COMM RT 5.51 5.54 5.5 5.57 5.5 5.51 1,091,400 6,023,575 16.3 16.34 16.1 16.38 16.1 16.34 8,544,200 139,521,632 ROBINSONS LAND 0.145 0.167 0.15 0.15 0.15 0.15 450,000 67,500 PHIL REALTY ROCKWELL 1.39 1.43 1.44 1.44 1.38 1.43 11,000 15,510 SHANG PROP 3.77 3.8 3.73 3.8 3.73 3.79 214,000 809,770 3.13 3.45 3.45 3.45 3.45 3.45 200,000 690,000 STA LUCIA LAND SM PRIME HLDG 34 34.05 34.2 34.4 33.9 34 8,422,100 287,136,015 VISTAMALLS 2.3 2.37 2.3 2.3 2.28 2.3 12,000 27,500 SUNTRUST RESORT 0.81 0.83 0.81 0.81 0.81 0.81 10,000 8,100 1.68 1.69 1.7 1.7 1.68 1.69 760,000 1,281,650 VISTA LAND 1.69 1.71 1.74 1.74 1.7 1.71 3,061,000 5,226,590 VISTAREIT RT

SERVICES ABS CBN 4.32 4.4 4.43 4.43 4.32 4.4 161,000 704,290 GMA NETWORK 8.93 8.96 8.95 9 8.93 8.93 230,100 2,061,152 7.03 8.46 6.03 7.61 6.03 7.61 1,700 11,481 MLA BRDCASTING GLOBE TELECOM 1,739 1,740 1,740 1,750 1,731 1,739 131,320 228,605,965 PLDT 1,294 1,295 1,289 1,297 1,289 1,294 34,340 44,426,755 APOLLO GLOBAL 0.012 0.013 0.013 0.014 0.013 0.013 63,400,000 829,400 10.02 10.12 9.72 10.12 9.71 10.12 30,589,100 305,484,779 CONVERGE 2.93 2.95 2.98 2.98 2.93 2.93 310,000 915,820 DFNN INC DITO CME HLDG 2.45 2.48 2.47 2.48 2.43 2.45 2,730,000 6,726,560 NOW CORP 1.11 1.13 1.12 1.13 1.11 1.13 409,000 458,150 0.123 0.129 0.123 0.124 0.123 0.123 560,000 68,920 TRANSPACIFIC BR ASIAN TERMINALS 16.6 16.94 16.98 16.98 16.96 16.96 1,500 25,464 CHELSEA 1.47 1.53 1.5 1.53 1.48 1.53 270,000 405,360 CEBU AIR 33.9 34.1 33.8 34.2 33.8 34.05 177,000 6,029,400 272 273 274.8 275.8 270.2 272 1,924,440 524,681,328 INTL CONTAINER 15.42 17.76 17.76 17.76 17.76 17.76 400 7,104 LBC EXPRESS MACROASIA 3.98 4 3.94 4 3.94 4 346,000 1,377,730 METROALLIANCE A 0.43 0.62 0.44 0.44 0.43 0.43 300,000 131,500 5.35 5.5 5.5 5.5 5.3 5.35 800 4,290 PAL HLDG HARBOR STAR 0.75 0.77 0.78 0.78 0.78 0.78 2,000 1,560 ACESITE HOTEL 1.81 1.89 1.81 1.81 1.8 1.8 122,000 219,800 BOULEVARD HLDG 0.063 0.064 0.063 0.064 0.063 0.063 2,010,000 126,650 0.4 0.41 0.4 0.41 0.4 0.4 320,000 128,300 WATERFRONT 552 567 567 567 567 567 40 22,680 FAR EASTERN U IPEOPLE 7.1 7.29 7.35 7.35 7 7.3 4,400 30,970 STI HLDG 0.62 0.64 0.62 0.64 0.61 0.64 3,864,000 2,419,220 1.19 1.21 1.2 1.22 1.19 1.19 596,000 717,020 BELLE CORP 11.74 11.76 11.7 11.8 11.7 11.74 5,331,700 62,688,532 BLOOMBERRY PACIFIC ONLINE 4.11 4.16 4.13 4.16 4.1 4.16 95,000 391,710 PH RESORTS GRP 0.83 0.85 0.84 0.85 0.84 0.84 534,000 448,570 0.69 0.7 0.72 0.72 0.69 0.7 11,952,000 8,395,830 PREMIUM LEISURE 7.45 7.48 7.5 7.55 7.33 7.48 5,625,900 41,874,918 DIGIPLUS PHILWEB 1.73 1.77 1.74 1.75 1.72 1.73 159,000 274,400 ALLDAY 0.157 0.159 0.158 0.16 0.158 0.159 3,800,000 602,090 1.13 1.14 1.15 1.15 1.13 1.14 1,589,000 1,814,600 ALLHOME 1.29 1.31 1.29 1.31 1.29 1.31 321,000 419,150 METRO RETAIL PUREGOLD 27.5 27.95 27.55 28 27.35 27.5 3,663,900 100,692,120 ROBINSONS RTL 36.9 37.15 36.9 37.2 36.7 37.1 180,500 6,669,210 78.15 78.2 77 78.15 77 78.15 11,210 875,950 PHIL SEVEN CORP 3.14 3.15 3 3.15 2.92 3.15 3,647,000 11,204,600 SSI GROUP UPSON INTL CORP 1.24 1.27 1.23 1.3 1.23 1.27 80,000 101,040 WILCON DEPOT 22.55 23 22.95 23.1 22.5 22.55 1,185,200 26,969,175 0.229 0.249 0.255 0.255 0.222 0.249 180,000 42,250 APC GROUP EASYCALL 2.11 2.32 2.11 2.11 2.11 2.11 3,000 6,330 MEDILINES 0.31 0.315 0.31 0.32 0.31 0.315 1,030,000 322,450 PRMIERE HORIZON 0.17 0.172 0.165 0.172 0.165 0.172 1,090,000 185,450 4.35 4.6 4.5 4.6 4.5 4.6 11,000 50,090 SBS PHIL CORP

MINING & OIL ATOK 4.65 4.7 4.65 4.65 4.65 4.65 50,000 232,500 2.64 2.66 2.67 2.69 2.62 2.64 5,058,000 13,403,930 APEX MINING 3.33 3.47 3.35 3.35 3.33 3.33 131,000 437,430 ATLAS MINING BENGUET A 4.39 4.6 4.39 4.6 4.39 4.6 10,000 44,110 FERRONICKEL 1.95 1.96 1.94 2 1.92 1.96 1,174,000 2,277,940 0.042 0.045 0.045 0.045 0.045 0.045 1,600,000 72,000 GEOGRACE LEPANTO A 0.067 0.069 0.069 0.07 0.067 0.067 5,390,000 367,720 LEPANTO B 0.068 0.071 0.073 0.073 0.068 0.068 400,000 28,150 MANILA MINING A 0.0038 0.004 0.0039 0.0039 0.0039 0.0039 34,000,000 132,600 0.004 0.0045 0.004 0.004 0.004 0.004 8,000,000 32,000 MANILA MINING B MARCVENTURES 0.81 0.82 0.82 0.83 0.81 0.82 515,000 418,910 NICKEL ASIA 4.65 4.7 4.65 4.72 4.63 4.7 1,668,000 7,779,340 ORNTL PENINSULA 0.65 0.66 0.65 0.68 0.65 0.67 69,000 45,340 3.1 3.12 3.09 3.1 3.07 3.1 349,000 1,075,360 PX MINING UNITED PARAGON 0.0041 0.0047 0.004 0.004 0.004 0.004 1,000,000 4,000 ENEX ENERGY 4.69 5 4.23 5.08 4.21 4.69 45,000 205,536 ORNTL PETROL A 0.008 0.0081 0.008 0.008 0.008 0.008 24,000,000 192,000 0.0075 0.0077 0.0078 0.008 0.0076 0.0076 29,000,000 223,200 PHILODRILL PXP ENERGY 3.85 3.87 3.71 3.86 3.7 3.85 110,000 414,860

PREFFERED ACEN PREF A 1,052 1,098 1,054 1,055 1,054 1,054 1,200 1,264,850 ACEN PREF B 1,079 1,080 1,079 1,079 1,079 1,079 100 107,900 2,490 2,500 2,490 2,490 2,480 2,490 1,575 3,916,670 AC PREF AR ALCO PREF D 482 498 482 482 480 482 850 408,960 BRN PREF A 97.55 98 98 98 97.55 98 26,090 2,553,720 CEB PREF 33.5 34.95 33.3 33.3 33.3 33.3 100 3,330 95 95.1 95.5 95.5 95 95.1 22,090 2,102,884 DD PREF JFC PREF B 946 950 950 950 950 950 200 190,000 MWIDE PREF 2B 93 96.95 92 93 92 93 11,020 1,023,840 MWIDE PREF 4 93.1 93.5 93.5 93.5 93.5 93.5 100 9,350 996.5 1,010 1,010 1,010 1,010 1,010 50 50,500 PCOR PREF 3B PCOR PREF 4B 980 1,000 1,000 1,000 1,000 1,000 20 20,000 PCOR PREF 4C 990 1,000 1,000 1,000 1,000 1,000 20 20,000 SMC PREF 2F 72.5 72.9 72.55 72.55 72.45 72.5 12,600 913,225 70.65 72.55 72.55 72.55 70.65 70.65 13,900 983,000 SMC PREF 2I SMC PREF 2K 70.55 74 71 71 71 71 560 39,760 SMC PREF 2L 77.9 78.45 77.95 77.95 77.95 77.95 6,000 467,700 SMC PREF 2N 77.1 78.5 78.5 78.5 78.5 78.5 260 20,410 79.4 79.6 79.5 79.65 79.5 79.65 3,430 273,034 SMC PREF 2O TECH PREF B2D 48.75 49.3 49.3 49.3 49.3 49.3 100 4,930

PHIL. DEPOSITARY RECEIPTS ABS HLDG PDR 4.06 4.1 4.1 4.12 4.1 4.12 11,000 45,280 GMA HLDG PDR 8.52 8.6 8.6 8.6 8.52 8.52 20,000 171,254

WARRANTS

TECH WARRANT

0.19

0.2

0.2

0.2

0.19

0.2

240,000

47,800

-921,640 454,540 44,800 -236,055.00 2,620 2,750 -2,045,220 79,460 19,680 -2,283,920 -82,960 -6,351,930 12,300 -5,465,394 -271,119 -46,708,092 -5,520 38,000 -204,047,865 -337,400 -5,118,300 1,158,605 796,535 -67,662,521 14,670 573,220 10,360 -887,740.00 180,102,722 1,776 299,470 116,000 -202,070 121,000 1,095,086 6,900.00 -2,943,160 6,260 134,360.00 6,550 1,216,175 425,910.00 202,308.50 1,271,770 -71,020 -16,748,325 -139,500 96,790 202,010 721,140 -2,907,090 -360 125,192 -

SMALL, MEDIUM & EMERGING

0.43 0.43 0.43 0.43 10,000 4,300 -4,300 1.01 1.01 1 1.01 885,000 891,400 0.68 0.72 0.65 0.68 360,000 252,880 1.01 1.02 1 1.02 231,000 232,660 0.247 0.247 0.245 0.245 440,000 108,260 49,400

EXHANGE TRADE FUNDS

107.6 108 107.6 108 9,900 1,066,914 293,796

BALAI FRUITAS HAUS TALK ITALPINAS MERRYMART XURPAS

FIRST METRO ETF

0.41 1 0.68 1.01 0.249 107.9

0.425 1.01 0.7 1.02 0.26 108

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Entrepreneur BusinessMirror

Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug • Wednesday, February 14, 2024 B3

Noodling to the top: The inspiring story of SMPCs SipSarap vegetable noodles

J

alajala is a town situated along Laguna de Bay and most of the people in this town make a living from fishing. Aside from tilapia and milkfish, bighead carp is among the bulk of fishes caught by fishermen that causes oversupply and low income for them.

With this scenario seen by the members of the Sipsipin Multi-purpose Cooperative (SMPC), they want to help the fishermen and do something valuable to the bighead carp, along with the tilapia and milkfish.

SMPC is an Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Organization assisted under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) of Rizal.

In 2010, a fish-processing project was established by the SMPC that started in a kitchen-type smoked fish production using the household-type utensils and sun-dried fish drying.

Seeing the market demand for smoked fish and dried fish, the cooperative decided to improve their production and made it possible with unwavering support from different agencies, such as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Agriculture (DA), and local government unit of Jalajala and Rizal.

To continuously innovate prod-

Sipsipin Multi-purpose Cooperative women-members knead their signature vegetable pancit canton product at their kitchen site in Jalajala.

Sipsipin Multi-purpose Cooperative members pose for a souvenir snapshot at the façade of their cooperative site.

ucts, the cooperative also learned to make fish noodles with the help from the DTI-Rizal CARP. This fish noodles were on demand in different countries, such as in Vietnam during that time. However, with the difficulty in sustaining the supply and quality of fish in the area, the processing of fish noodles was not sustained.

Yet, these challenges did not stop the cooperative to their goal to improve the lives of their members and people in the community. With perseverance, their skills in processing noodles, and unwavering

DTI that helped in improving the packaging and labeling of their product.

Also, SMPC was able to join different marketing activities like provincial trade fairs held in different malls, such as in Robinsons Place Antipolo, Eastwood Central Plaza, and Waltermart Antipolo that expanded their market and generated more income.

For 2023, SMPC was able to upgrade their technology in processing and enhance their processing facility that made their processing efficient

support from the government agencies, SMPC shifted their business to vegetable noodle processing because they saw the demand for it, and that’s how SMPC’s Sipsarap Pansit Canton was born. Sipsarap Pansit Canton is a promising product for pancit canton is one of the foods every Filipino love to eat, always present in every occasion, and can be served in different ways.

DTI-Rizal CARP continuously supported SMPC by enrolling them to the One Town One Product Next Generation Program of

Woman shines in tough logistics, warehousing biz dominated by men

By Roderick L. Abad

@rodrik_28

to produce more quality products and cater to the demand of the market.

From 30 packs of Sipsarap Pancit Canton a day, they can now produce 100 packs, and it doubled their income from P5,000 to P10,000 up to 12,000 per month.

Moving forward, SMPC’s goal is to always ensure that they make quality products, which is why they plan to acquire a Food and Drug Administration License to Operate certificate. Also, they hope to expand more their market in Rizal and its nearby provinces.

The yes principle

Contributor

L

ABOR-INTENSIVE industries like logistics and warehousing are a man’s domain. No one would dare imagine that a woman like Louraine Motoomull could break into this very tough field, initially from just being an employee to becoming a boss lady.

“My personal journey in the logistics industry started in sales department of a very well known global company. After my four transformational years of working there, I found the courage to venture out on my own because I realized that nothing is hard to fulfill if you want it,” she told the BusinessMirror in an interview.

Confident of the experience she gained from her previous employment, Louraine then felt that she’s ready to fulfill a childhood dream of putting up her own business. Armed with the right knowledge and network, she finally established Impextic Inc. in 2009 in her native province of Cebu.

With a capitalization of P60,000 from her personal savings, she purchased a multi-cab van worth P35,000.

Little did she know this small cargo truck would pave the way for her startup to now a medium-sized logistics and warehousing firm.

“We’re already across nationwide services. Though it’s not easy because I started from nothing, I think patience is the secret to achieve what we have right now,” said the company’s president.

Wonderful journey

THE establishment of Impextic is a one-woman endeavor. As a headstart, Louraine personally takes charge of the shipment of her first customer that imports medical supplies. She recalled driving the multi-cab van to pick up the client’s cargo of about 30 boxes on the way to the port of Cebu for their transfer to the shipping line.

“Since I’m the only girl bringing my customer’s shipments there, I felt like a ‘kargador’ and ashamed at first.

I earned only P150 for that. But I got used of it and felt proud of myself that I fulfilled my commitment to customer satisfaction. And it ‘pays’ me a lot figuratively. That’s the essence of what I learned when I was starting,” she shared.

Such humbling experience led her fulfilling multiple roles within her business. Not only that she was the driver, but also the sales person, helper, admin, etc., doing all the possible

I IMPEXTIC Inc. President Louraine Motoomull (fourth from left) holds a certificate of recognition for sharing her business experiences and thoughts on the topic “Enhancing Logistics and Warehousing Capabilities” during the “Transformation Accelerator Summit: Fast-Track Your Business in a Digital Age” held at the Sheraton Manila Bay on January 25. Joining her are the other resource speakers, namely, UHY M.L. Aguirre & Co. Senior Partner Michael L. Aguirre (second from left), TechSupport CEO Kernan Motoomull (third from left), PVL Ventures Consultant Paul Angelo Lazo (third from right), and Customized Training Solutions CEO Marylen R. Velasco (second from right).

positions necessary for the company’s operations.

“It’s something memorable. For me, it’s a good experience because there’s no such thing as instant. I’m supposed to be having like this journey before I came to what I want to become in life,” Louraine said.

The beginning of something big

RIGHT after its importation shipments and door-to-door delivery, Impextic then offered domestic services.

Upon the encouragement of her husband Kernan, whom she met in Manila, Louraine expanded there in 2010.

Apart from her doing the usual marketing and constant visitation to her customers, Mr. Motoomull, who owns a technology firm, introduced automation internally for the sending of emails to a hundred of potential customers.

This helped gain more new clients, such that she decided to acquire additional delivery vehicles, which count up to 15 at present, and branch out to Davao in 2020 and Iloilo in 2022.

One of the biggest convenience store brands in the country became Impextic’s client. With its big storage requirement, it advised Louraine to expand into warehousing and distribution, which she heeded. This portfolio,

to date, has accounted for 80 percent of the company’s businesses.

Currently, it operates five warehouses across all its locations—two in Manila and one each in its three provincial territories—accommodating numerous clients.

Hurdling challenges, moving forward

LIKE other forwarders in the country, Impextic also had a fair share of challenges that came its way.

“Because of the demand of customers, we have to meet their expectations. That’s one challenge that we are truly facing every day. Also, consistency of manpower because sometimes you cannot control the turnover of people. They come and go. So we need to find a way to still continue serving our customers despite of a lot of challenge,” she enumerated.

Apart from their employed 50 fulltime workers, Louraine noted their engagement of a “shadow or a backup” of two to three people. She said: “In case the driver won’t report to work, we have a replacement. So might as well we’ll invest in a lot of manpower than to have a bad customers service feedback.”

The company, she added, spend on acquiring new vehicles to add to its fleet rather than outsourcing and, at

the same time, software technologies developed by her husband’s firm to automate some of the company’s operations like inventory and monitoring.

From small cartons of products to large generators, heavy-duty equipment, vehicles and computers, Impextic will never back down from any challenge.

“We pride ourselves to having served over 400 corporations since our inception, delivering thousands of shipments nationwide,” Louraine said, while citing their commitment.

“We will deliver whatever it takes.”

Helping fulfill this promise, she bared their plans that include the purchase of about five to 10 more vehicles in preparation for their franchise offering hopefully this year that could be of help to branch out further nationwide like in Cagayan De Oro soon and opening of new warehouses if the need arise.

“Three years from now, with our efforts, we aim to be like one of the reliable logistics providers in the Philippines. We want to also help other people that wanted to go into business.

In that way, we don’t only fulfill our own needs but share the opportunity with other people who also dream to have their own business,” Louraine stressed.

n both sales and leadership, the “yes” response is vital in getting transactions across.

It conveys agreement to a proposition leading to a positive action.

It is considered a buying signal or a sign that the other party is now ready to move towards the next-level transaction. Getting a “yes” is a verbal affirmation that you successfully gained influence, and is now a step closer to where you want to be. But in most cases, you need to strategize in order to receive a yes response.

Here are four steps to obtaining that yes.

Decide on your desired outcome

Why do you want that yes? And what would you like them to say yes to? These are questions that you should determine prior to your actual interaction. As Matthew Fryer puts it, “You can’t find what you want if you don’t know what you’re looking for.” So before plunging into any negotiations and interactions, decide on your desired outcome.

Understand pain points and buying motivations

The second step into obtaining a yes response is to understand your client’s pain points and buying motivations. What are their current concerns and aspirations? What motivates them into saying yes? Is it about winning?

Or they simply do not wish to lose? Are they after that distinct feeling of satisfaction? Or is convenience more important?

Do they aspire to become trail blazers? Or do they just want to blend with the crowd?

Ask the right questions

The third and vital step in get-

ting a yes is to ask the right questions. Carefully craft close-ended questions answerable by yes. At this point, you should know that obtaining a yes response is by design. And you do this by taking into consideration your desired outcome along with your client’s pain points and buying motivations, then choose the appropriate close-ended question. Do you think this will help? By the way, ask questions sparingly like how military snipers would use bullets—one at a time. Always bear in mind that if you want to get the right answers, always craft the appropriate questions.

Wait for the response

Once you ask a question, please shut-up and simply wait for the reply. In most cases, the yes comes easily. However, there are times when the client needs time to process the proposition, which may take at least a minute or two. In selling and leadership, patience is truly a virtue.

Practice these four steps and improve your batting average for yes responses. And in case you initially receive a response other that yes, don’t despair. Instead, go back to step one and repeat the process. After all, selling is a numbers game. God bless!

Alexey Rola Cajilig is the President of ARCWAY Consultancy Inc., Executive Director of ARC DOCENDI, and the Executive Managing Director of EM-CORE Success Academy and EM-CORE Foundation, Inc. He is a Sales Leadership Coach, Strategic Sales Operations Consultant, Christian Motivational Speaker, Human Ecologist and Author of The effective Seller. He is also the creator of ARCH Styles, a behavioral and personality assessment tool. If you have questions and suggestions, you may send an email to salesleadershipcoachlex@ gmail.com.

B4

Banking&Finance

Wednesday, February 14, 2024 • Editor: Dennis D. Estopace

BusinessMirror

www.news.businessmirror@gmail.com

seeks private-sector Higher deposit insurance coverage DOF backing on water projects may lead to ‘risky behavior’–PDIC

By Reine Juvierre Alberto

T

By Cai U. Ordinario

risky behavior or riskier behavior by banks,” he added.

Tan further said it is important to not only determine the level of coverage but also the measures that will instill market discipline and avoid moral hazard.

Currently, the maximum deposit insurance coverage (MDIC) of the PDIC is at P500,000. This has been the case since 2009 when then President Gloria Arroyo signed into law the amendment of the PDIC charter that doubled the deposit insurance from P250,000.

M. Remolona Jr. said a deposit insurance is not a moral hazard as this is created to prevent a bank run, or “when the customers of a bank or other financial institution withdraw their deposits at the same time over fears about the bank’s solvency.”

Remolona also said “there’s no such thing”as a cap or threshold on deposit insurance during a crisis to avoid moral hazard.

The BSP governor explained that during a crisis, all deposits should be safe and have to be made whole. This is a lesson that is based on history, Remolona said.

“So, there is no moral hazard in having deposit insurance. Our deposit insurance system was designed for preventing runs on individual banks. It wasn’t designed for systemic risk, it wasn’t designed for a crisis,” the central bank governor said. “In the face of a crisis, there’s no such thing as a threshold on deposit insurance, all deposits have to be safe, have to be made on--this is the lesson of history. It’s not a recent thing.”

Not a moral hazard

Already in crisis

@caiordinario

HE Philippine Deposit Insurance Corp. (PDIC) is seriously studying the possibility of increasing the insurance coverage of banks as the move could lead to “risky behavior.”

In a forum on Ferbruary 13, PDIC President Roberto B. Tan said as such, they would have to coordinate with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

“Our intention to raise it doesn’t mean it’s a stand-alone action. Definitely we will need to coordinate, work with the BSP on the risky behavior that this can create once we increase, let’s say, our deposit insurance coverage,” Tan said last Tuesday.

“For now we are in the process of studying how we will be increasing our deposit insurance coverage and up to what level. And what measures are needed to instill market discipline and to avoid moral hazard or

MEANWHILE, BSP Governor Eli

REMOLONA said in the case of one

country that he refused to name, the governor of the central bank of that country said he will not “save banks” affected by the crisis the country was facing at that time.

However, this led to a bank run, which also negatively affected the entire banking system. Given this, Remolona said the right time to “worry” about moral hazard is after a crisis; when regulation has to be tightened.

“The only thing you can do is (place) all depositors [on] hold. If you worry about moral hazard at that point, you’re already in crisis,” Remolona said.

An attached agency of the BSP, the PDIC is a government instrumentality created in 1963 by Republic Act 3591, as amended, to insure the deposits of all banks.

PDIC exists to protect depositors by providing deposit insurance coverage for the depositing public and help promote financial stability. It is tasked to strengthen the mandatory deposit insurance coverage system to generate, preserve, maintain faith and confidence in the country’s banking system; and protect it from illegal schemes and machinations.

Bill seeks 50% discount on OFW-remittance fees

By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie

T

O enhance the protection of the hard-earned remittances of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), the House Committee on Ways and Means approved last Tuesday an unnumbered substitute bill protecting OFW remittances.

Kabayan Rep. Ron P. Salo presented and sponsored the substitute bill for “An Act Providing For Protection of the Remittances of OFWs” during the House Committee on Ways

and Means meeting on February 13.

The bill received the Committee’s approval.

“It is imperative that we lessen the cost incurred by OFWs in their remittances, which account for a staggering $36.1 billion, or 8.9 percent of the country’s gross domestic product,” Salo said.

The committee, headed by Albay Rep. Joey Sarte Salceda, greenlit the approval of House Bills (HB) 185, 1190, 2944, 3020, 4170, 4257, 4343, 4397, and 4469, all of which collectively propose comprehensive mea-

Conspiracy theories

W

IKIPEDIA on “Conspiracy Theory” (CT): It is an explanation to an event that asserts the existence of a conspiracy by sinister groups, when other explanations are more probable.”

We were ourselves victimized by such CTs in the Maui, Hawaii fire that killed scores and destroyed massive historical and tourist iconic places.

The fake theory (with scores of doctored pictures and videos) was produced to “prove” powerful people (in government) and real estate moguls conspired to test a military high energy weapon and depress real estate prices for takeover by land buccaneers. And we wrote about it.

In truth, it was “pure wild forest fire fanned by strong typhoon winds” that did Maui in. Mea maxima culpa.

With technology, conspiracy theorists can propagate their CTs in seconds around the globe and lure millions to their line of thought.

Psychologists postulate that people need to be provided comfort with information on things that they cannot explain so they lean on CTs. The proponents demonize the other side and convince people that they have an “existential struggle with those who do not “share their beliefs.”

“Stolen election” was the anthem that drove thousands to the Washington Capitol in January 2021 and sowed mayhem and violence. Russia, meanwhile, propagandized that Ukraine is really part of Russia, its citizens wanting to become Russians again and was being run by Neo-Nazis to justify its unjust annexation.

Today, in the Israel-Hamas war, thousands of pictures and videos have been altered and passed on as legitimate news in another aspect called “war propaganda.” A University of Virginia study says that CT followers “believe facts don’t matter and create their own universe”— believing what they want to believe.

Finex free enterprise Zoilo ‘Bingo’ Dejaresco III A different University of Maryland survey showed that of the US violent attacks, 166 of those happening in 2020, were prompted by CT prodding.

Recent conspiracy theories

A fairly recent CT development is the so-called Taylor Swift (recently turned billionaire) CT which says that the Democrats rigged the Superbowl by making the Kansas Chefs (where Swift’s boyfriend Travis Kelce plays for) win over the Baltimore Ravens.

In the greatest sports event that is the Superbowl finals—Taylor Swift is said to perform at halftime- and then-VOILA- endorse the reelection bid of Joe Biden for the presidency.

Swift has an incredible 600 million followers on social media.

The Associated Press reports that half of Americans believe in at least one CT which while not necessarily leading to violence can always result in radicalization and social isolation.

The Covid-19 phenomenon had spawned implausible theories like the implanting of microchips in vaccines to track people, vaccines leading to certain diseases and death and were used by the likes of Bill Gates to decrease fertility and control world population growth which Gates says (sic) is untenable. Thus, vaccine clinics have been attacked, nurses and doctors threatened, and vital vaccines destroyed when they were needed, as a consequence.

One ridiculous CT concerned the bombing of the Twin Towers and

sures to protect OFW remittances.

The approved proposals address the various facets of safeguarding OFW remittances. The proposed legislation seeks “to establish a robust framework that ensures the protection and proper utilization” of remittances sent by OFWs. The proposed legislation aims to grant a 50-percent discount on the fees of OFW remittances to their families back here in the Philippines.

In return, banks and other financial intermediaries will receive tax deductions equivalent to the discounts

Pentagon on September 11, 2001, stating that this was the workings of the government of President George Bush. That the buildings were aided by “controlled demolition” to ensure their collapse and that the Pentagon was really hit by a missile (not just the crashed airplane). Bush’s objective: justify the Afghanistan war and get the oil of Iraq. Very Hollywoodish, indeed.

Largely, there is a CT school of thought that the propaganda versus the Marcoses was to demonize their name and prevent their election into power and were, therefore, all untrue.

Especially the CD voting market, many fell for this and was reportedly the reason why people voted Bongbong Marcos to the presidency.

Older conspiracy theories

THE most telling and revolting is the continued anti-Semitism globally that tries to downgrade the Holocaust of 6 million Jews killed by the butcher Adolf Hitler between 1941-1945. A 2014 survey conducted over 100 countries showed, despite documentation to the contrary, that 30 percent do not believe the figure is accurate and those under 60 years normally have qualified belief if the Holocaust did happen at all.

Even America’s landing in the moon of astronauts Armstrong and Aldrin in 1969 was questioned by 30 percent of Americans in the 1960’s, many saying the landing pictures were just photographed in a rugged terrain in Nevada. Believe it or not, a significant 10 percent of Americans still have of the same belief as late as 2019.

On November 23, 1963, American President John F Kennedy was shot

by Lee Harvey Oswald in Texas during a motorcade; Oswald was in turn shot dead by Jack Ruby on his way to a trial. In the 1960’s more than 50 percent of Americans believed Os-

provided to OFWs. Initially, the substitute bill included a provision limiting the total annual tax deduction for these financial intermediaries to P24,000 per OFW. However, the committee removed the proposed cap to further encourage OFWs to send their remittances, Salo said.

Moreover, the bill prevents these financial institutions from increasing remittance fees without prior consultation with government financial institutions, thereby shielding OFWs from unexpected fee increases.

wald never “acted alone”—way up to 2017, some still believed in that CT. They reasons cited by the CTs for the assassination include: the failure of the “Bay of Pigs” attack in Cuba, retaliation of the Mafia vs. Robert Kennedy and the CIA-military complex anger at JFK for slowing down interest in building armaments of war. Imagine those.

CT believers proposed that the car death of the beloved Princess Diana in Paris aboard a car with a drunken driver and her lover—film mogul Dodi Fayed (who was to propose marriage to the divorced Diana that night) was not an accident. The sons of Diana (Harry and William) were reportedly against having a Muslim (Fayed) as a stepfather. Wow, on this one. (Better than the fertile mind of Steven Spielberg).

CT proponents say the popular Area 51 in Nevada, on the other hand, is kept off limits because of the presence of UFOs and new battle weapons being developed by America there. And that the American government’s silence or ambivalence on the existence of the UFOs are proofs of their existence. Say that, again, Sam. Qanon CT followers seem to be the most notoriously radicalized. For instance, the Associated Press reports that a man allegedly killed his two sons with a speargun in the mistaken belief that his wife” was possessed by a serpent DNA and passed that on to their children.” If the above were not as macabre and horrifying, many of these Conspiracy Theories aftermath could be a rich ground for producers to generate storylines for horror and violent movies. No need for ChatGPT and Bing.

Zoilo P. Dejaresco, a former banker, is a financial consultant, media practitioner and author. He is a Life and Media member of Finex. His views here, however, are personal and do not necessarily reflect those of Finex and the BusinessMirror. dejarescobingo@yahoo.com.

T

HE Department of Finance (DOF) called on the private sector to collaborate with the government and invest in surface water resources projects in the country.

According to DOF Undersecretary for Privatization and Corporate Affairs Catherine L. Fong, the government offers an “enticing menu of investment prospects” under its “Build Better More” program.

There are 44 projects focused on water resources amounting to P839.2 million out of the 198 big-ticket infrastructure projects worth P8.8 trillion under the BBM program, according to Fong.

“I invite you to take a close look at these projects and uncover the myriad of opportunities awaiting your partnership with us,” Fong said during the investment forum last Tuesday that focused on opportunities in sustainable water utilization and infrastructure development.

Despite the abundance of water in the Philippines as an archipelagic country, Filipinos still struggle to access clean drinking water and face frequent flooding due to climate change, the DOF official said.

To address this, Fong called upon the private sector for a public-private partnership (PPP) to create solutions through investments in surface water sources.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the National Irrigation Administration also presented the various government assets available for investments, such as multipurpose dams, dams potential for domestic water use and floating solar projects, natural lakes, and multipurpose irrigation projects.

Fong highlighted the enactment of the Public-Private Partnership Code of the Philippines, which “rolls

out a red carpet to investors, offering a stable, predictable, and competitive environment where high-quality PPP investments can thrive.”

However, the implementing rules and regulations of the law are still in the final stages and Fong said it is targeted to be released “very soon.”

Furthermore, the DOF is refining the Corporate Recovery Tax Incentives for Enterprises (Create) law, or Republic Act 11534, to “better address investor concerns and tailor-fit incentives for more strategic investments.”

Fong said the DOF is advocating for the passage of the bill seeking the creation of the Department of Water and Resources (DWR) as the move would address the redundant roles of over 30 agencies managing the country’s water resources.

“Their overlapping functions result in disjointed planning and uneven policy execution. These ultimately impede the stability of the nation’s water supply,” Fong stressed.

Once realized, the DWR will serve as the primary agency responsible for the development and management of integrated water resources in the Philippines, she added.

Meanwhile, the DOF official said the government is positioning the country as the “premier investment destination” as the Philippines, she added, is ready to host partnerships through reform policies and establish a strong economic foundation.

“Our collaboration will not only ensure water security. Above all, it will bring us faster and farther on the road to inclusive growth and a secure future for every Filipino,” Fong said. “We’re doing all the structural reforms that are needed to make it comfortable for our private partners to invest including the amendments needed on the economic regulation side of water.”

BPI renews partnership with JPN’s Mizuho Bank

T

HE Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) announced having renewed its partnership with Mizuho Bank Ltd. (Mizuho Bank) the continued recovery of the Philippine economy from its pandemicinduced losses.

In a statement on Tuesday, BPI cited that the Philippine economy’s upward growth trajectory signals the recovery not only of consumption spending but also investments, including Japanese investments.

The BPI noted that 1,400 Japanese companies are operating in the Philippines as of 2023. Further, more than half, or 60 percent, of the country’s foreign direct investments are from Japan.

“This renewed agreement between Mizuho and BPI reflects the resilience and growth of our relationship over the years,” BPI President and CEO Jose Teodoro K. Limcaoco was quoted in the statement as saying. Limcaoco added that the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) the two lenders’ officials signed “goes beyond the fundamentals by addressing the expansion of Japanese businesses through mergers and acquisitions, asset management, human resources, and ESG [environmental, social and governance] in its broader scope of operation.”

Mizuho Bank is a leading global bank with one of the largest customer bases in Japan and an extensive network of financial and business centers, the statement read. BPI and Mizuho Bank are aligned in their mission to become the most trusted financial partner for their clients, added the statement.

In 2012, both banks entered into an agreement to offer financial services to Japanese companies considering entry to the Philippines.

The collaboration focuses on local currency services, the introduction of local and sales partners, mutual

efforts in developing credit markets, and information exchange on local financial markets and regulations.

Yasuhiro Kubota, Mizuho Bank Managing Executive Officer and CoCEO for Asia Pacific, was quoted in the statement as saying their first agreement with BPI was signed in 2012.

“And since then, the business environment has undergone significant changes,” Kubota said. “With the renewed partnership, it is time to strengthen both our capabilities to better serve a larger customer base. We look forward to more collaborations with BPI as we usher in a brighter era for the Philippines.”

According to BPI, the lender has been servicing more than 500 Japanese companies in the country, offering trade products, providing investment opportunities, and lending for capital expenditures and working capital requirements. BPI said it also supports the well-being of the companies’ employees by facilitating monthly payroll, providing health and insurance coverage, and assisting with retirement planning.

According to BPI Institutional Banking Head Juan Carlos L. Syquia, the lenders’ partnership “flourished, leading to a commitment with mutual growth and success.” “Our joint venture with Tokyo Century has only strengthened our bond with Mizuho Bank, fortifying the relationship that originated from the initial MOU.” BPI said investment spending is poised for growth, following adjustments in the construction sector and the likelihood of interest rates having reached their peak.

This conducive environment may encourage businesses in becoming more aggressive with their capital expenditures, reflecting a promising outlook for growth amid lower inflation. Cai U. Ordinario

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Image BusinessMirror

Editor: Gerard S. Ramos • Wednesday, February 14, 2024

B5

AI ‘COMPANIONS’ PROMISE TO COMBAT LONELINESS, BUT HISTORY SHOWS THE DANGERS OF ONE-WAY RELATIONSHIPS

By Anna Mae Duane University of Connecticut

The heart to lead

A

N important aspect expected from you as a leader is to develop a positive work environment where your team can collaborate. This is the main reason why you have the final say in terms of who becomes part of your team. You do not just evaluate applicants based on skills and abilities, but you also assess their behavior and how they would fit in the team. If management has put its trust on you to lead people, it also means that your team members should somehow exhibit your same behavior.

As the primary culture builder of your team, you get to shape your team’s mindset on how they should approach work. At the heart of every team is the leader, which means that the success of the team depends on a leader who inspires and guides them to become the best version of themselves. But what happens when you are pushed into a leadership position but you feel that you are not ready for it?

How do you develop a heart to lead others?

The first thing you need is to be right with yourself.

Management has decided that you are ready to lead others which means they have confidence in your ability, or at the very least your potential, to lead others.

Now would be a good time to put theory into practice and learn what it takes to lead a team. As some would say, fake it until you make it. Learn well and learn fast because this is where you draw your confidence. Only when you are confident with yourself will people also become confident in you as a leader.

In the hierarchy of things, you should know how to t ake care of yourself before taking care of others.

Develop your emotional quotient because you will affect the entire team with how you handle issues and problems. Your team will lose confidence in you if you get easily rattled. As their immediate point of contact with the management, your reactions and comments on changes in the organization will dictate how they should also react. If you are easily irritated by the different issues brought to you, your team will hide issues or even cover up problems just so you will not get angry at them. Even the way you dress up tells your team how you are managing yourself. The bottom line is that if you cannot take care of yourself, how can they expect you to take care of them? Your confidence should be backed up with your capacity to take care of yourself and manage your emotions.

There are things you should know which can be learned over time through training, observation, and exposure to different kinds of people. But leadership is not just something that can be learned through workshops and seminars. Leading others is also the art of managing different personalities so that they can work together towards a common goal. Team leaders do not lead the same way because they have different teams with different sets of personalities that need to be managed. So, stop comparing yourself to other leaders because they also have their own unique set of personalities to deal with. Of course, you can learn best practices from others but make sure that you use them as they are applicable to your team. Experiment with what works but always put your people first.

Maintain your team’s trust in you by being authentic. People know when you are just putting on a show just because you are their leader. If you are not trustworthy, you will find yourself surrounded by sycophants who will only tell you what you want to hear. You are authentic when you are consistent in action and words. A litmus test I use is how leaders talk about other people because it indicates the way they talk about me when I am not around. If a leader

PHOTO BY PRODUCT SCHOOL ON UNSPLASH

TWO TALES

is being authentic, they would speak about other people the same way whether they are with the person or not.

Which brings me to integrity, which is who you are when no one is looking. If you truly understand your values and what is important to you, your actions and words will follow. One way to check if you have integrity is to check if you always say yes to your own manager unconditionally even without consulting your team first. This shows that you do not care for the welfare of your team by agreeing to an unplanned workload, and you only care for your manager’s perception of you as a leader. As a people manager, you should put your team first and negotiate for them to top management. If you always kowtow to management, this tells your team that you are not really in charge of the team and you do not have their best interest at heart.

At the heart of leadership is having empathy for your team. This means putting yourself in their shoes by actively listening whenever they tell you about work. Nobody ever goes to work simply to complain and disrupt everyone. Behind every feedback is a chance to make things better and if you really listen and read between the lines, you will realize that they are actually telling you what can be improved. If you know your team well, you will know who are simply airing out their concerns, who are giving you hints to what you should be looking at, and who just needs a little push to succeed. When you have empathy for your team, you will discover how to rally them towards a common goal.

Leading people is an opportunity to influence the lives of others. It also means taking the opportunity to learn from them how to become better as a leader and as a person. And I guess that is the reason why there is no one-size-fits-all kind leadership because you just have to be true to yourself and discover mutually beneficial ways to learn from your team.

Lisa Macuja-Elizalde shares advice on creative success THE globally-acclaimed Filipino prima ballerina Lisa Macuja-Elizalde shared tips to aspiring choreographers and dancers toward success in the creative industry, as the world navigates the postpandemic era.

Macuja-Elizalde encouraged hopeful talents to search and enroll in the best schools and companies that offer excellent education and experience.

“First, get the training that you need to be able to keep on practicing your art form.

Keep exploring all different forms until you find your niche and expertise,” she explained in HISTOPHTV, an online platform featuring prominent figures in the dance landscape.

HISTOPHTV is a webinar interview produced by the Dance Program students of the De La SalleCollege of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB).

The multi-awarded mentor advised them to commit and pursue their passion at a very young age.

She underscored that a dance career is notably brief and particularly well-suited for individuals during their youth.

With the aim to adapt to the progressive local and global performing scene, MacujaElizalde, together with Benilde Dance Program Chairperson Nina Anonas and educator Mycs Villoso, likewise discussed the Bachelor in

Performing Arts, Major in Dance that is currently offered and available at the college.

Following the widespread use of social media platforms, the artistic director of the classical ballet institution Ballet Manila urged young artists to continue creating content and publish them online.

“You can post it, whether it is a solo choreography or a ballet technique that you want to impart, so that everyone can learn from these insights,” she stated.

To prioritize overall well-being and health, Macuja-Elizalde noted that both mind and body must also have the time to rest, heal and recover, especially those who suffered injuries from exercises and presentations.

“As long as the love for doing it is present in our hearts and minds, continue doing it. That is how we are going to survive as artists in this very demanding environment,” she expounded.

The Philippine culture advocate also sought the support of the government and private sector on the community’s initiatives to develop an appreciative audience.

She likewise called for less fractioned, more joint forces within groups to earn more respect for productions. She noted stage and theatrical settings have changed throughout the years.

THE United States is in the grips of a loneliness epidemic: Since 2018, about half the population has reported that it has experienced loneliness. Loneliness can be as dangerous to your health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, according to a 2023 surgeon general’s report.

It is not just individual lives that are at risk. Democracy requires the capacity to feel connected to other citizens in order to work toward collective solutions.

In the face of this crisis, tech companies offer a technological cure: emotionally intelligent chatbots. These digital friends, they say, can help alleviate the loneliness that threatens individual and national health.

But as the pandemic showed, technology alone is not sufficient to address the complexities of public health. Science can produce miraculous vaccines, but if people are enmeshed in cultural and historical narratives that prevent them from taking the life-saving medicine, the cure sits on shelves and lives are lost. The humanities, with their expertise in human culture, history and literature, can play a key role in preparing society for the ways that AI might help—or harm—the capacity for meaningful human connection.

The power of stories to both predict and influence human behavior has long been validated by scientific research. Numerous studies demonstrate that the stories people embrace heavily influence the choices they make, ranging from the vacations they plan, to how people approach climate change to the computer programming choices security experts make.

There are two storylines that address people’s likely behaviors in the face of the unknown territory of depending on AI for emotional sustenance: one that promises love and connection, and a second that warns of dehumanizing subjugation.

The first story, typically told by software designers and AI companies, urges people to say “I do” to AI and embrace bespoke friendship programmed on your behalf. AI company Replika, for instance, promises that it can provide everyone with a “companion who cares. Always here to listen and talk. Always on your side.”

There is a global appetite for such digital companionship.

Microsoft’s digital chatbot Xiaoice has a global fan base of over 660 million people, many of whom consider the chatbot “a dear friend,” even a trusted confidante.

In popular culture, films like Her depict lonely people becoming deeply attached to their digital assistants. For many, having a “dear friend” programmed to avoid difficult questions and demands seems like a huge improvement over the messy, challenging, vulnerable work of engaging with a human partner, especially if you consider the misogynistic preference for submissive, sycophantic companions.

To be sure, imagining a chummy relationship with a chatbot offers a sunnier set of possibilities than the apocalyptic narratives of slavery and subjugation that have dominated storytelling about a possible future among social robots. Blockbuster films like The Matrix and Terminator have depicted hellscapes where humans are enslaved by sentient AI. Other narratives featured in films like The Creator and Blade Runner imagine the roles reversed and invite viewers to sympathize with AI beings who are oppressed by humans.

ONE REALITY

You could be forgiven for thinking that these two stories—one of friendship, the other of slavery—simply represent two extremes in human nature. From this perspective it seems like a good thing that marketing messages about AI are guiding people toward the sunny side of the futuristic street. But if you consider the work of scholars who have studied slavery in the US, it becomes frighteningly clear that these two stories—one of purchased friendship and one of enslavement and exploitation—are not as far apart as you might imagine.

Chattel slavery in the US was a brutal system designed to extract labor through violent and dehumanizing means. To sustain the system, however, an intricate emotional landscape was designed to keep the enslavers self-satisfied. Gone with the Wind is perhaps the most famous depiction of how enslavers saw themselves as benevolent patriarchs and forced enslaved people to reinforce this fiction through cheerful professions of love.

In his 1845 autobiography, Frederick Douglass described a tragic occasion when an enslaved man, asked about his situation, honestly replied that he was ill-treated. The plantation owner, confronted with testimony about the harm he was inflicting, sold the truth-teller down the river. Such cruelty, Douglass insisted, was the necessary penalty for someone who committed the sin “of telling the simple truth” to a man whose emotional calibration required constant reassurance.

HISTORY LESSON

PRIMA ballerina Lisa Macuja-Elizalde

To be clear, I am not evoking the emotional coercion that enslavement required in order to conflate lonely seniors with evil plantation owners, or, worse still, to equate computer code with enslaved human beings. There is little danger that AI companions will courageously tell us truths that we would rather not hear. That is precisely the problem. My concern is not that people will harm sentient robots. I fear how humans will be damaged by the moral vacuum created when their primary social contacts are designed solely to serve the emotional needs of the “user.”

At a time when humanities scholarship can help guide society in the emerging age of AI, it is being suppressed and devalued.

Diminishing the humanities risks denying people access to their own history. That ignorance renders people ill-equipped to resist marketers’ assurances that there is no harm in buying “friends.”

People are cut off from the wisdom that surfaces in stories that warn of the moral rot that accompanies unchecked power.

If you rid yourself of the vulnerability born of reaching out to another human whose response you cannot control, you lose the capacity to fully care for another and to know yourself. As we navigate the uncharted waters of AI and its role in our lives, it’s important not to forget the poetry, philosophy and storytelling that remind us that human connection is supposed to require something of us, and that it is worth the effort.

THE CONVERSATION

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Wednesday, February 14, 2024

www.businessmirror.com.ph

SM GREEN FINDS: EMPOWERING SUSTAINABLE SELF-LOVE

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EBRUARY is the month of love. Why don’t you take time out and spend this month loving and looking after yourself? While taking care of yourself, you can also make a conscious effort to save Mother Earth.

You can start taking care of yourself by patronizing personal care items that are accessible, and eco-friendly made w ith natural ingredients and are locally-sourced.

By taking this first step in choosing green finds that help promote the wellbeing of our communities and our planet, you can all enjoy a greener shopping experience.

When shopping for your personal care items, look out for the SM Green Finds badge on items being showcased within the SM Beauty Department. Here, you will find a wide array of eco-friendly self-care products like shampoos, conditioners, lotions, facial wash and even cosmetics among others.

There’s one brand that you cannot go wrong with from SM Clean Beauty and it’s the Naturals by Watsons brand. A certified Green Find, Naturals by Watsons has a line of shampoos, conditioners and lotions that come in different variants to suit your needs.

You can also start rewarding yourself with a sustainably made wardrobe for all shapes and sizes. Head on to Kultura at the SM Store, which has an array of natural,

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THE Naturals by Watsons brand has a line of shampoos, conditioners and lotions that come in different variants to suit your needs.

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ILHA features bags with striking beadworks and hand-embroidered designs on their bags.

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eco-friendly and locally sourced clothing that will help you jumpstart and create a sustainable wardrobe.

If you are a bag lover, check out Anmari & Co which has a line of handcrafted Buntal Bags that come in different colors and even rattan solihiya accents. Another brand to consider is Ilha which features striking beadwork and hand-embroidered designs

Celebrate love month with Maya to unlock exciting deals, savings and FREE flights

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OVE is in the air and it’s time to create special moments with your significant other.

Whether you’re indulging in a cozy dinner, surprising your beloved with a thoughtful gift, or whisking them away on a romantic getaway, Maya, the #1 Digital Bank in the Philippines, is here to make your sweet moments come true while unlocking incredible savings, cashback rewards and raffle entries to FREE Flights all year long!

Here are some ways on how you can celebrate love month with Maya: Romantic Dinner for Two. Imagine having a candlelit dinner at your favorite restaurant, indulging in delectable dishes, and toasting to your love. With Maya as your trusted payment method, you not only enjoy the convenience of seamless cashless transactions but also get up to 14 percent p.a. credited daily to your Maya Savings.

PhilHealth members can avail of discounts in SM Stores nationwide on February 14

Whether you prefer to pay with your phone via QRPh or with your Maya card, the process is quick, secure, and hassle-free, allowing you to focus on creating cherished moments with your partner.

Heartfelt Gifts to Cherish. Express your love with a thoughtful gift that speaks volumes. Whether it’s a bouquet of roses, a piece of jewelry, or a personalized keepsake, Maya ensures that every purchase you make contributes to your financial well-being.

With the flexibility to pay through Maya Credit, you can shop easily and confidently, knowing there’s no pressure on your transactions. Plus, you can access extra funds quickly, with up to P30,000 transferred to your Maya wallet.

Romantic Getaway to Remember. Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and whisk your partner away on a romantic getaway.

Whether it’s a weekend retreat near the metro or a vacation in your favorite international

on their bags.

Through the SM Green Movement Campaign, SM Store is making it easier for customers to get hold of eco-friendly products through SM Green Finds. SM Store works together with their suppliers in offering products that are eco-friendly, made from natural ingredients and support local communities.

destination, travel with your Maya card in style and ease as it’s accepted globally. Pay for your accommodations, activities, and dining experiences effortlessly using the Maya card and watch as your savings grow with every transaction. Plus, you get P14, P140, or P1,400 cashback rewards for every minimum transaction of P3,500 made from February 14 to 18 between 5 pm to 8 pm and a chance to win a three-day, two-night stay in Privato Hotel Quezon City!

This love month, let Maya be your trusted companion as you create new cherished memories together with your significant other. As you plan with Maya, remember that every transaction you make brings you closer to financial wellness and rewarding opportunities. Every time you save, spend, borrow, or grow your wealth with Maya, you increase your chances of winning FREE flights throughout the year. Start using Maya today and pave the way for love, happiness, and financial success!

Unlock unforgettable moments now with Maya by visiting maya.ph and mayabank.ph and following @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok.

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N commemoration of PhilHealth’s 29th anniversary on February 14, 2024, an exclusive one-day shopping discount promo awaits all members in partnership with the SM Store branches nationwide.

Billed as “PhilHealth Members’ Day,” the promo offers exclusive discounts for in-store and personal shopper transactions. For a minimum single receipt purchase of P3,000, members may avail of the P300 discount.

Joy~Nostalg Hotel & Suites Manila Managed

by Accor Unveils Exquisite Valentine’s Offerings exciting dining experience with a panoramic view of the Ortigas skyline. It’s time for a semibuffet grill adventure featuring a choice of ribeye, tenderloin, tiger prawns, black grouper, pork belly, and lamb. Complement your meal with mouthwatering appetizers such as Maine lobster, sustainable Selva shrimps, Irish Gallagher oysters, Thai calamari salad, and curacha crab. On a sweet note, toast to love with a champagne mousse stone made from bitter chocolate soil, strawberry crémeux, and gold layered raspberry clafoutis for a truly memorable night for only P3,188 nett per person.

Calling The Romantics

Celebrate Love and Flavor: Discovery Primea’s exclusive Valentine’s Offers await

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to an already refined dining affair. Join us on February 14 and 15 for a celebration—where Flame and Idalia unite to create an unforgettable symphony of flavors.

ISCOVERY Primea invites you to celebrate love and flavor this February with exclusive Valentine’s offers that promise to elevate your romantic experience. Immerse yourself in an enchanting blend of culinary delights and spa serenity for an unforgettable occasion.

Terazi Spa’s Valentine Retreat for Couples

Elements of Flavor: Flame X Idalia Dinner Tasting Menu on February 14, 15

EMBARK on an exceptional journey with our Elements of Flavor series, a tribute to culinary craftsmanship in an exclusive collaboration dinner at Flame Restaurant. Nestled on the 16th floor, Flame promises not only delectable cuisine but an experience elevated by stunning city views. At the helm is Discovery Primea’s esteemed Executive Chef Luis Chikiamco, whose expertise has been honed across the landscapes of France, Mexico, and the Philippines.

Joining him is Chef Kevin David of Idalia, celebrated for inventive creations and pop-up tasting menus. For Valentine’s Day, Idalia has gracefully found its temporary home at Flame, creating a tale of excellence in tandem with Chef Luis. This fusion of contemporary expertise and innovative approaches ensures a menu that tantalizes taste buds and narrates a story of culinary inspiration.

The collaboration between these two co o k i n g e nt h u s i a s t s p ro m i s e s a d i n i n g experience beyond the ordinary. Chef Luis,

with apprenticeship in a three-star Michelin Guide establishment in Lyon, France, and Chef Kevin, whose journey traces from the vibrant kitchens of New York City to the sophisticated dining scene of Los Angeles, unite to deliver an unforgettable experience for diners.

Indulge in the meticulously curated dinner tasting menu, priced at P3,500++ per person.

Immerse yourself in the flavor of dishes such as the exquisite Scallop Croquette, the kombucured Black Grouper with nori crust, Pan-Seared Foie Gras, and the Josper-grilled US Beef Short Ribs.

Each dish is a masterpiece, artfully crafted to showcase the freshest and most seasonal ingredients.

Elevate your experience with an optional wine pairing, expertly selected from Estate Wine, at PHP 1,500++ per person. From the Limoux region in France to California, USA, and Murcia, Spain, the wines selected provide a perfect accompaniment, adding a layer of sophistication

AS part of the hotel’s offerings, Terazi Spa e x te n d s a s p e c i a l p a c k a g e t h ro u g h o u t February. Couples are invited to escape into a haven of tranquility with our luxurious Intimate Spa Retreat treatment, including a 30-minute Rose Bath, followed by a 60-minute Signature Massage, and a complimentary mini bottle of Prosecco with chocolate-dipped strawberries, all for P8,500 nett. Terazi Spa, open Tuesday to Sunday from 12:30 pm to 9:00 pm, invites you to unwind and indulge in blissful relaxation.

Explore the full spectrum Discovery Primea’s offers on our website: www.discoveryprimea. com . Delight in culinary extravagance, immerse yourself in spa serenity, and discover love in every detail. For inquiries and reservation, call +63 2 7955 8888 or email dp.rsvn@ discovery.com.ph . Stay connected with the latest updates by following Discovery Primea on Facebook: Discovery Primea and Instagram: @discoveryprimea .

Your romantic journey awaits at Discovery Primea-where sophistication, flavor, and love converge in a celebration like no other.

Members simply need to present their PhilHealth ID and SMAC membership card to become eligible. The one-day promo is not in conjunction with other promotions, such as the SM Store gift-with-purchase.

This year’s commemoration is in line with the theme “Damang-dama ko ang benepisyo” which encapsulates the state health insurer’s thrust of enhancing its health benefits packages for all Filipinos.

JOY Nostalg Executive Chef Gus Mohamed

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HETHER you are looking for an intimate place for a date or a chill spot to hang out with your best pals, Joy~Nostalg Hotel & Suites Manila promises to deliver the perfect blend of ambiance and experiences today, February 14, 2024.

ANSWER the call of romance and immerse yourself in our comfy One Bedroom Executive Suite with buffet breakfast for two persons, complimented with homemade chocolates and a demi bottle of wine for P12,800 nett. The booking period is until February 15, 2024 and the stay period is until February 18, 2024.

For restaurant reservations, you may call The Nostalgia Lounge & Bar and The Rook at +63 2 7719 1160 or email tndl@joynostalgsuites. com and room reservatios at +63 2 5318 788 or email HB2D6RE1@accor.com.

Follow Joy~Nostalg Hotel & Suites Manila on Facebook, Instagram, and Viber for updates and exclusive offers.

The Twist You Never Knew You Needed THE Nostalgia Lounge & Bar unveils its exquisite Valentine’s Day five-course menu, inviting you to savor the creative blend of locally produced cacao. Delight in an array of meticulously crafted dishes, each a testament to culinary artistry and love.

Dig in the starter, featuring chickpea and caviar, and go through a medley of tomatoes, including sous vide crayfish, white tomato mousse, semidried cherry mozzarella, hydroponic tomato, and strawberry salad paired with Grandes Vinos 49 Millions Sparkling Rose, Spain. Traverse further with an artichoke heart crème paired with dark chocolate-filled clam ravioli for the soup, and let the cocoa husk-smoked duck breast be your gateway to the entrée. The gastronomic climax awaits with the chocolate Wagyu beef belly, concluding the night with dates and chocolate fondant. All of these delights can be yours for only P6,188 nett per couple.

Valentine’s Isn’t Just For 2; It’s For Everyone HEAD to The Roof on the 43rd floor for an

VALENTINE’S Day menu starter

BusinessMirror

Editor: Tet Andolong

Wednesday, February 14, 2024 B7

Bay Area continues to attract investors

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By Rizal Raoul S. Reyes

he Bay Area, also known as Bay City, continues to be the top favorite of property investors as it posted a 63 percent growth on delivery of condominium units from 2018 to 2023 surpassing Ortigas Center (18 percent) and Fort Bonifacio (11 percent).

In a two-year span from 2024 to 2026, Colliers Philippines noted that the Bay Area would achieve a historical condominium completion of an annual delivery of nearly 8, 000 units in the said period.

From the end of 2023 to end2026, the Bay Area would achieve a 26.4 percent growth from 36,380 to 46,590 units, according to Collier Philippines research director Joey Roi Bondoc.

“It used to play catch up, but the Bay Area is now poised to dominate,” he said.

“Bay Area will have the largest stock by 2024 with 7,120 units followed by Ortigas Center which will deliver 2,030 units.

In terms of hotel occupancy, the Bay Area is keeping pace with 69 percent and 68 percent occupancy in the 4-star and 5-star category respectively.

Bondoc said 2024 would be a banner year for the hospitality sector. The Bay Area and Newport City would experience a- 45 percent increase with the entry of three foreign brands.

He also pointed out that 2024 would be a banner year for the

retail sector for the following reasons. n All-time high completion of new retail space n Food and beverage to continue dominating space take up n Marginal rise in rental n Renovation and innovation n Greater interest from foreign retailers and n Reactivation of activity centers, heightened omnichannel strategies.

An access to a diverse market Meanwhile, the SM Mall of Asia complex-based Conrad Hotel through its S Maison mall is providing growth opportunities to the Bistro group of companies.

Lisa Ronquillo-Along, chief marketing officer of the Bistro group, told the BusinessMirror in an email interview that the location of upscale mall S Maison gives the Bistro group access to a diverse market of local and international customers.

To be able to cater to local and international clients, Along said the Bistro group in My South Hall introduced different cuisines and

My South Hall offers diverse choices to both local and foreign clients.

concepts such as WCKD, El Pollo Loco, Xi Nen, Modern Shanghai, Fish & Co, Sarap and Randy’s. “This gives My South Hall a competitive edge over other dining options in the area, as it offers a wide range of flavors and dishes that cater to different preferences and occasions,” she said.

According to Ronquillo, the Bistro group seeks to attract upscale and sophisticated diners. Being a luxury mall : S Maison caters to affluent and discerning customers who are looking for premium and exclusive experiences.

She added local and international tourists are potential cus-

My South Hall’s spacious interiors provides a good dining experience to its customers.

tomers who want to enjoy a taste of different cultures and flavors, as well as a convenient and comfortable dining experience.

“Conference attendees from SM MOA are one of the market segments,” Along said.

Things are looking bright for the Bistro group as more people prefer dining out now which is a great advantage to the company.

The expansion of its brands and branches has increased the convenience for its diners.

Moreover, Along said their promotions have encouraged the guests to dine more frequently.

SM Mall of Asia complex

Sta. Lucia Land, Mindanao’s ARSM Land to develop mixed-use community in South Cotabato

Highlands Residences: Experience all things Tagaytay Highlands all at once

t’s all about giving more Filipinos a chance to realize their dream of owning a home.

Trusted property developer Sta. Lucia Land Inc. and ARSM Land Inc., represented by its president Rubbil S. Mangudadatu, recently signed a joint venture partnership that will allow them to develop a prime mixed-use community that will not only offer to more Filipinos the opportunity to own a quality home, but will also help enhance the real estate landscape of Mindanao.

“Having this joint venture project with ARSM Land will allow us to deliver on our promise to build better developments that could help fuel growth in the countryside, while providing individuals and families with communities where they can thrive and live their dreams,” said Sta. Lucia Land president Exequiel Robles.

T he joint venture project— which covers 6 hectares of ARSM’s prime land in Barangay Carpenter Hill, Koronadal City, South Cotabato—will feature premium residential and commercial developments that will be spearheaded by Sta. Lucia Land.

“We are tasked to transform the property into a premium, exclusive residential subdivision complete with a commercial area that is strategically situated along the national highway. We are glad to be working on this project with ARSM and we hope to help elevate the property landscape in the area through this project,” Mr. Robles said.

“At the same time, we are hopeful that this project will help further stir economic activity in Koronadal City and generate fresh jobs for resi-

agaytay Highlands has earned a distinct reputation as the Philippines’ most exclusive residential complex of its kind and scale. Lending its unique character are signature log cabins and lush mountain ranges set amidst a year-round nippy breeze that create a stunning landscape perfect for luxury living and outdoor relaxation.

Today, Tagaytay Highlands opens a new chapter as a much-awaited archetype of its renowned lifestyle is set to unravel—Highlands Residences. The private mountain resort’s newest midrise condominium development is specially crafted to embody mountain living ideals where indoor and outdoor adventures come together in one luxury address.

Designed to surround the central amenity, this low-density condominium development is envisioned to promote open-air activities, which makes Highlands Residences a destination in and of itself. With Tagaytay Highlands’ residential communities being known for having their exclusive world-class amenities, look no further as Highlands Residences already comes with its own line-up of recreational features that are for the sole use of its residents.

Communing with nature and exploring the world around is the lifestyle roadmap that awaits future homeowners of Highlands Residences. The central amenity incorporates such convergence areas as the Bonfire, Sunken Garden, and Outdoor seating alcoves where one can either lounge and feel the cool mountain air or spend a magical night under a starry sky. Water lovers can also enjoy morning workouts in the lap pool and afternoon dips in the kiddie pool. For more adventurous souls, they can enjoy the fresh air while getting physical at the Exercise Area or trek amidst the lush greens of the Nature Trail.

Realizing dreams, enhancing communities:

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Gracing the signing ceremony were (from left) Suharto Al Wali S. Mangudadatu, Mayor of Datu Abdullah Sangki, Maguindanao Del Sur; Datu Muhaimin S. Mangudadatu, Board of Director, ARSM Land; Bai Mariam S. Mangudadatu. Governor, Province of Maguindanao Del Sur; Sharon Hoy, secretary of ARSM Land; Merlyn Sordilla del Rosario, real estate agent; Sherryl Yasmin Sangki, Board of Director, ARSM Land; Abdulrahman Rubbil S. Mangudadatu, president, ARSM Land; Exequiel D. Robles, president, Sta. Lucia Land; Atty. Jerry Dela Cruz, head of Legal Department of Sta. Lucia Realty; Vicente R. Santos, chairman, Sta. Lucia Land; Ma. Theresa Antonio, AVP for Mindanao operations at Sta. Lucia; and Richard Ericson Antonio, real estate agent.

dents within the community. After all, we have long made it our goal to ensure that our developments will not only help enhance lives but will also fuel growth in the areas where they are located,” he added.

The project is also seen to provide future residents unmatched convenience as it is situated near essential establishments and institutions.

And since it will be developed by Sta. Lucia Land, future homeowners can look forward to having access to choice amenities and facilities that would give them that premium living experience.

This early, both parties will be appointing an exclusive marketing arm to ensure that all inquiries of prospective homebuyers and investors will be readily addressed.

“Through this project, we hope to pursue our mission of fuel growth in the fringe areas. We have always

sought to take a more active stance in nation-building and we know that to be able to do this, we need to be present in more areas where our service is needed like in Koronadal City.

We are excited about this project and this is just the start. We know that there’s still so much that we can do for our country,” Mr. Robles concluded.

Sta. Lucia Land has completed more than 300 projects across the country, enabling it to establish a strong, reliable presence in the market. Going beyond the promise of value for its property offerings, Sta. Lucia Land makes it a point to build masterplanned communities—from golf estates, lakeside communities, resort-themed homes, and condotels, among others—that would allow residents to experience an enhanced quality of life that they rightly deserve.

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Artist’s perspective of community shot. Wake up every day to lush greenery and blue skies stretching as far as the eye can see. Highlands Residences is where weekend thrills turn into everyday hillside experiences.

With scenic vistas and Highlands views all around, as well as luxurious amenities and a multitude of activities available for the family, there is always an adventure waiting around the corner. Here, every day is an opportunity to turn weekend thrills into daily hillside experiences.

Five midrise residential buildings of five to seven floors comprise a composite design that is inspired by all things Tagaytay Highlands. Each Highlands Residences unit is well-thought-out to provide space that strikes the perfect balance between work and play. From spacious living rooms meant to encourage bonding with loved ones, to tastefully designed bedrooms meant to help one wind down and escape the stress of every day, Highlands Residences is built with the uncompromising resident in mind.

Attesting to Tagaytay Highlands’ commitment to excellence in every detail is its developer and SM Prime Holdings subsidiary Highlands Prime Inc.’s (HPI) recently bestowed Bronze Award for Developer of the Year (Luzon) during The Outlook 2023 Philippine Real Estate Awards by Lamudi.

Also, for Tagaytay Highlands’ dedication

to uphold sustainability, safety, and security, it was recently awarded a “Safety Seal” by the City Government of Tagaytay.

The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) also hailed HPI as one of CALABARZON’s 2021 Outstanding Developers for Open Market Projects.

Tagaytay Highlands’ property management will remain efficient in complying with health and safety precautionary measures and delivering quick crisis responses during adverse natural and high-risk events.

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Sports

Gorayeb: Solar gals have mission to accomplish

BusinessMirror

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OGER GORAYEB may not have the luxury of a long and careful preparation, but the well-loved coach of newcomer Capital1 Solar Energy is banking heavily on his players’ big fighting heart in their bid to pull off surprises in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference which starts next week.

“In this league, time is a good investment considering the level of competition. It’s very tough, so I am pinning my hopes on their big fighting hearts as we begin our journey,” said Gorayeb during the team dinner hosted by amiable owners Mandy and Milka Romero Monday.

Gorayeb’s concern is valid as the Solar Spikers are barely three-week old when the league opens shop on Tuesday next week.

Gorayeb is convinced that all his 20 players are on a mission—to prove that they truly belong to the widely popular pro league.

“They’re hungry to playing so I am very sure they will give it their all each game,” added the multi-titled tactician who helped sharpen the skills of Alyssa Valdez during her Ateneo days.

Gorayeb also expressed in delight that there no such thing as “star factor” in the team—at least for now.

“No egos whatsoever for my team which is a mixture experienced players and young ones,” said Gorayeb as he hopped from one table to another to exchange pleasantries with his players, including new additions Patty Orendain and Aiko Urdas.

As expected, the Romero sisters, determined to relive the winning legacy their father—Rep. Mikee Romero— started while handling a basketball team in the defunct Philippine Basketball League, challenged the team not only to go out and play but also fight ferociously like wounded lions.

“Show that we belong to this league and always give your best shots,” said Mandy, who heads the family-owned Capital1 Solar Energy.

Milka, the oldest of the two sportsminded sisters, agreed.

“Our goal is to cultivate a winning culture, but we’re not in a hurry, so it’s going to be step by step first,” she said.

The other members of the team are Heather Guino-o and Jannine Navarro, Arriane Layug, Jorelle Singh, Janeca Lana, Rovee Instrella, Renesa Melgar, Sydney Niegos, Lourdes Clemente, Shyra Umandal, Cathrina Dizon, Kath Villegas, May Macatuno, Jel Quizon, Rica Rivera, Bingle Landicho, Dana Del Rosario, Jel Quizon, Rica Rivera and Sofia Nipa.

Also present during the dinner-cumpep talk were team officials Edwin Galvez, Hollie Reyes and Iby Bautista.

B8 | W

ednesday, February 14, 2024 mirror_sports@yahoo.com.ph Editor: Jun Lomibao

Luisita srs face tough PAL Interclub defense PATRICK MAHOMES, when asked whether the Chiefs have become a dynasty, says: “It’s the start of one.” AP

Chiefs achieve dynasty status L

AS VEGAS—This was supposed to be the year when the Kansas City Chiefs were vulnerable— their wide receivers were dropping passes, their offense was committing penalties, Travis Kelce was supposedly getting old and there was no way that Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes could possibly overcome all of that.

Yet they did, and wiped away any doubt that the Chiefs are the new National Football League (NFL) dynasty.

With their come-from-behind overtime win over the San Francisco 49ers in the Super Bowl on Sunday night, the Chiefs raised their third Lombardi Trophy in four trips over a five-year span.

And they became the first team sin ce the New England Patriots with Tom Brady two decades ago— the last great football dynasty—

COACH Roger Gorayeb (left) poses with Capital1 Solar Energy owners Mandy and Milka Romero (second and third from left) and assistant team manager Hollie Reyes.

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By Rick Olivares

ILIPINO-AMERICAN Hyder Amil made his UFC debut a memorable one and served notice to the featherweight division that he is coming.

The 33-year-old Amil—born to a Filipina mother from Cebu and an Indian-Turkish-English-Romanian father—scored a technical knockout victory over fellow prospect Fernie Garcia in the preliminary rounds of UFC Fight Night Hermansson vs Pyfer in Las Vegas Sunday.

Amil opened the fight with a powerful leg kick to Garcia who took the fight on short notice and then overwhelmed his opponent with flurries of strikes and kicks.

The San Francisco-based Amil then dropped Garcia and was quickly all

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to successfully defend their title.

Even Mahomes, when asked whether the Chiefs had become a dynasty, replied: “It’s the start of one.”

“It’s a little bit surreal,” Reid said. “I don’t know what a dynasty is. You guys have the thesaurus, so you can figure it out. It’s a great win because I know how hard it is to do and how hard the season was, the ups and downs of the season, and how proud I am of the guys for just hanging with each other and staying positive with each other.”

Never before has an underdog in back-to-back Super Bowls won both, and that may best illustrate two important facts: The Chiefs were eminently beatable this season, and nobody was able to beat them when it mattered.

Start with the roster, which had to be creatively put together by general manager Brett Veach around $37 million in salary cap space taken up

by Mahomes, the biggest cap hit in the NFL this season.

Yet the architect of each of their last three title runs was able to find bargains such as Jerick McKinnon and Drue Tranquill who contributed far beyond their monetary value.

Look at their wide receivers, youngsters and journeymen who dropped more passes than any team in the league this season. Yet they galvanized around a quiet rookie, Rashee Rice, who not only became their No. 1 option but a bona fide star.

It goes beyond personnel, though.

Consider the road Kansas City had to navigate this season.

At one point, the Chiefs played six consecutive games in which the other team had extra days of rest, the only time that has happened in NFL history. They had to play in Germany, beating the Dolphins in Frankfurt in a preview of a future wild-card game,

and at one point lost five of eight midway through the season to drop to the No. 3 seed for the playoffs.

After beating the Dolphins in the fourth-coldest game in NFL history, the Chiefs hit the road in the postseason for the first time in six years with Mahomes as the starter. But as underdogs in Buffalo and Baltimore, the Chiefs embraced their newfound status as hunters rather than the hunted, and they responded by playing their best football of the season.

In terms of strength of opposition, the Chiefs successfully navigated the toughest path to the Super Bowl in history.

Then came a fitting finale in Las Vegas.

The Chiefs started off by making the same silly mistakes that dragged them down too often during the regular season, and they fell behind San Francisco by double digits, just as they did in each of their four Super Bowls with Mahomes under center.

But just as they did in beating the 49ers four years ago, and the Eagles last year, the best team of its era rallied around what is fast becoming the best quarterback of any era to mount a comeback to remember.

Mahomes drove the Chiefs for a field goal to tie the game 16-all with about five-and-a-half minutes to go. He drove them for another field goal with 3 seconds left to force overtime. And he answered a field goal by San Francisco to start the extra session with a gutsy drive that Mahomes capped with his winning touchdown throw to the much-maligned Mecole Hardman.

“Same as always,” 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan said of Mahomes afterward. “He’s unbelievable.”

Same as always for the Chiefs: unbelievable. AP

Cebu native Amil wins 1st UFC fight in Vegas over him looking for a submission— the American was able to reverse being on the ground and attempted his own chokehold but Amil escaped.

This time, Amil looked to submit Garcia with an armbar but fought it off and survived to make it to the second round.

A visibly shaken and fatigued Garcia looked to make a game of it in early in the second round where he was able to land some solid shots, but compared to the volume dropped on him it was a matter of time before he was knocked out.

Referee Mark Smith stepped between both fighters to put an end to the fight at the 2:12 mark.

“That’s why I am called ‘The

Brownlee to Paris qualifiers?

IS it now safe to say that Justin Brownlee is also qualified to play for Gilas Pilipinas in the qualifiers for the Paris Olympics this year?

Said tournament set later this year allots four more slots to the Summer Games in July-August in the French capital also known as the City of Lights.

Gilas Pilipinas is bracketed with European biggies like Latvia. Although we are admittedly the underdog, there is always that slim possibility for us to advance, especially with Brownlee around.

Didn’t Brownlee bring magic when he hit consecutive triples to help Gilas Pilipinas defeat powerhouse China and Jordan in the Asiad’s semifinals and finals, respectively?

Both stunners produced the country’s fourth gold medal in the Hangzhou Asian Games in China last year, ending a 61year wait for the most important metal nabbed miraculously

Hurricane, baby,” explained Amil to UFC Hall of Famer and analyst Daniel Cormier post-fight after the fight aired on Premier Sports Channel on Skycable and Cignal as well as streaming application Blast TV last Sunday.

Amil scored his sixth stoppage to improve to 9-0 while Fernie Garcia fell to 10-5.

“I promised that people will see the best version of myself in this fight. I trained hard for and was excited coming in,” enthused Amil who is a protégé of former Strikeforce champion Gilbert Melendez. “I want to make my fights super exciting and for people to jump out of their seats.”

by the Brownlee-powered Gilas in the quadrennial event.

Although Brownlee later failed in the doping test, the naturalized Filipino took the matter in stride and opted to serve a provisional suspension period beginning November 9 last year. That meant sacrificing his stint in Barangay Ginebra’s title-retention bid in the PBA (Philippine Basketball Association) Commissioner’s Cup. And, as things turned out, Ginebra got wiped out via a 3-0 rout by San Miguel Beer in the semifinals.

A huge factor that somehow lightened sanctions regarding Brownlee’s doping row was the finding that he had taken the banned substance outside of the Asian Games. Turns out he was prescribed a cannabis after surgery to remove spurs, in the process receiving a threemonth suspension.

On February 4, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) announced that Brownlee was cleared by the Fiba (World Basketball Federation) to play for Gilas Pilipinas in the first window of the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers.

“We’re elated that the consequences FIBA issued do not

HYDER AMIL rocks Fernie Garcia.

UISITA Golf Club is gearing up for a tough title defense in the senior competition of the 75th Philippine Airlines Interclub golf team championships.

Canlubang and Manila Southwoods have beefed up their lineups to challenge Luisita at the Pueblo de Oro Golf and Country Club in Cagayan de Oro and Del Monte golf course in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon.

Following the exit of Benjie Sumulong, who will now play for Alabang, Luisita recalled Jing Tuason and added Ferdie Barboza and Marvin Caparros to backstop holdovers Rodel Mangulabnan, Ronnie Littaua, Chino Raymundo, Marty Ilagan, and Dan Cruz.

Luisita came from behind to beat Canlubang by seven points at the 2023 PAL Interclub in Cebu City last year.

“Luisita still has a solid team even without Benjie Sumulong this year,” said Luisita non-playing team captain Jeric Hechanova. “But Canlubang should be favored with three new solid players who will be a good addition to their existing lineup.”

Canlubang will return with only five members from its 2023 team— Abe Rosal, Damasus Wong, Zaldy Villa, Abe Avena, and Rolly Viray.

The Sugar Barons have tapped Pem Rosal, John Paul Reyes, and Jess Hernandez to provide additional firepower.

Manila Southwoods is hoping to break the Luisita-Canlubang stranglehold of the event by securing the services of many-time Alabang Country Club champion Jorge Gallent.

Gallent will team up with top gun Junjun Plana, Thirdy Escano, Joseph Tambunting, Theody Pascual, and Mandred Guangko who all played at the 2023 PAL Interclub in Cebu City.

Southwoods also tapped Monet Garcia and Michael Cheon.

The PAL Interclub seniors’ competition, which kicks off on February 22, will serve as the aperitif to the men’s regular tournament set on March 1.

The diamond anniversary edition of what is regarded as the country’s unofficial golf club team championships will now be played with a new format that guarantees keener competition.

From the usual five players coming out for each team every day, the men’s regular event will now use the four-toplay, three-to-count format that makes for balanced action.

Looming as a possible title contender is Alabang spearheaded by Sumulong. The team is also made up of Arnel Paras, Toti Zara, Kevin Kim, RJ Maclang, Jerome Hernandez, Timmy Yang and Marc Reyes.

The 75th staging of the PAL Interclub is supported by diamond sponsors Mastercard and Asian Journal.

Platinum sponsors include Airbus, Primax and Araw Hospitality while gold sponsors are Tanduay and Asia Brewery.

Joining the event as silver sponsors are ABS-CBN Global and Radio Mindanao Network.

VISA is a minor sponsor while Must Glow is joining as a donor.

Victolero, Hotshots won’t yield despite Beermen’s edge in Finals

T

By Josef Ramos

HE Magnolia Hotshots’ backs are against the wall in their Finals series against the San Miguel Beermen but head coach Chito Victolero’s confident his wards will fight back in Game 6.

“We still like our chances and everything remains positive for us,” Victolero told BusinessMirror on Tuesday ahead of their 7:30 p.m. game at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in the Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner’s Cup championship duel which the Beermen only need to win to wrap up the title on Wednesday night.

Victolero knows where his team is coming from—they fell behind 0-2, but fought back the next two games where they held San Miguel Beer below 100 points to tie the series.

They lost Game 5 which, for Victolero, looks like a familiar territory.

San Miguel Beer blasted Magnolia’s defense by hitting 16 triples—eight from Jericho Cruz— for a 108-98 victory to move a win away from its 29th PBA crown.

“We started 0-2 and then we came back, we just have to stick together,” Victolero said. “Our adjustments will

prevent Justin Brownlee to play for Gilas in the upcoming window,” said SBP President Al Panlilio. “Having him as our naturalized player alongside some of our locals that he has already played with before will be beneficial to the squad.”

Brownlee will join his Barangay teammates Scottie Thompson and Jamie Malonzo in the squad coached by Tim Cone.

Chris Newsome, Calvin Oftana, CJ Perez, June Mar Fajardo, Dwight Ramos, AJ Edu, Carl Tamayo, Kai Sotto and

play a vital role in Game 6.”

He added: “The breaks didn’t go on our way in Game 5 so I’m very confident we can find a way to tie the series [again].”

The Hotshots were like leeches in defense when they won Games 3 and 4, 88-80 and 96-85, respectively.

“Our defense turned weak last time. I hope we played good defense again,” said guard Mark Barroca, who’s averaging 13 points and 4.6 assists. “But just like what Coach Chito said, I still like our chances.”

Six-foot-7 Ian Sangalang expects fellow Kapampangan workhorse Calvin Abueva to deliver in Game 6, saying that his former San Sebastián teammate has a lot left in his arsenal.

“We haven’t seen the best of Calvin yet in this series and we believe he’s going to show it in Game 6,” Sangalang said. “We loosened our defense last time as we allowed Jericho Cruz and Simon Enciso to get their rhythm.”

Import Tyler Tarik Bey, who’s tallying 23.8 points and 11.8 rebounds in the series, isn’t yielding at all.

“I feel good about this conference.

We came back back from 0-2. We can do it again and we can win two more games,” he said.

Kevin Quiambao complete the Gilas lineup.

“Brownlee is a big part of the team and having him means we can hit the ground running,” Cone said.

Brownlee is a six-time PBA champion and a three-time Best Import of the Conference awardee, and who also led the Philippines in regaining the SEA Games’ basketball gold before the Asiad.

“I can’t wait to play basketball again and put all of this behind me,” said Brownlee. “It’s always been an honor to represent the Philippines and I’m happy to be given the chance again.”

Gilas will face Hong Kong on February 22 at the Tsuen Wan Stadium and Chinese Taipei on February 25 at the PhilSports Arena.

With Brownlee around, happy days are here again.

THAT’S IT The iconic PAL Interclub, the country’s national team golf championship, will tee off later this month in Cagayan de Oro, with another record field in attendance. Host venues are Pueblo de Oro and Del Monte. See you there!