BusinessMirror January 28, 2022

Growth, shipping woes seen to widen trade gap

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HE countr y’s e x pected positive economic performance this year and other concerns such as the shipping crisis will likely widen the country’s trade deficit further, according to local economists.

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported on Thursday that the country’s exports and imports grew 14.5 percent and 31.1 percent, respectively. (See story here: https://businessmirror. com.ph/2022/01/27/exportsimports-post-growth-in-2021psa/) The same report showed that the Philippines recorded a trade deficit of $43.34 billion in 2021.

This is the highest since 2018 when the deficit reached $43.53 billion.

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“I expect the deficit to widen this year as the country gears up for accelerated growth,” University of Asia and the Pacific (UA&P) Senior Economist Cid L. Terosa told the BusinessMirror on Thursday.

The shipping crisis as well as rising oil prices were among the major factors that affected global trade last year. Terosa and Ateneo Center for Research and Development (ACERD) Associate Director Ser Percival K. Peña-Reyes said there were already factors that influenced the ballooning of the trade deficit last year.

Based on the PSA data, the Balance of trade in goods (BoT-G), which is the difference between the value of exports and imports,

“I expect the deficit to widen this year as the country gears up for accelerated growth.”

–UA&P Senior Economist Cid L. Terosa

showed the country had a deficit.

In December 2021, this deficit reached $5.21 billion, the highest since the country recorded a trade deficit of $5.74 billion in

December 2019.

Ateneo de Manila University John Gokongwei School of Management Dean Luis F. Dumlao said the trade deficit, based on his calculations, has reached around 10 percent of the country’s GDP. “From [a] trade deficit equivalent to 10 percent of GDP in 2021, I expect [a] trade deficit equivalent to 11.5 percent of GDP in 2022,” Dumlao told the BusinessMirror.

Products

In terms of both exports and imports, electronic products, specifically semiconductors, remain as the country’s top products.

See “Growth,” A2

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Sunday, December 2021Vol. Vol.1717No. No.58 58 Friday,December January 28, 2022 112 Sunday, 5,5,2021

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To sustain growth, govt pins hopes on 2 priority bills

By Cai U. Ordinario

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@caiordinario

HE uncertainty brought by possible new variants of Covid-19 and inflation pose the greatest risks for the Philippines this year, according to the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) and local economists.

By Samuel P. Medenilla

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‘DIGITAL DIASPORA’

@sam_medenilla

ALACAÑANG is banking on the passage of t he a d m i n i s t r at ion’s two pieces of priority economic legislation to sustain the country’s economic growth this year.

This, after state statisticians reported on Thursday the gross domestic product (GDP) in 2021 grew by 5.6 percent “despite the business disruptions caused by the novel coronav irus disease [Covid-19] pandemic and natural calamities like Typhoon Odette [international name: Rai]” during the last quarter of that year.

Acting presidential spokesman Karlo B. Nograles attributed the improvement to the policies of the government’s economic team as well as the high public trust rating of President Duterte.

On Thursday, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) disclosed that the economy grew 5.6 percent last year and posted a 7.7-percent growth in the fourth quarter of 2021. (See stor y here: IN celebration of the Chinese Lunar New Year, which falls on February 1 this year, lion dancers perform a traditional dance believed to bring in good luck and fortune, at the open area of SM North Edsa Skydome htt ps:// businessmir ror.com. ph/2022/01/27/economy-postsin Quezon City on Thursday, January 27, 2022. NONOY LACZA 7-7-in-last-quarter-of-2021-psa/) Economic policies While Socioeconomic Planning He said the administration aims Secretary Karl Kendrick T. Chua to keep the momentum of the ecobelieve that the positive growth nomic growth with the passage of of the economy is sustainable, the amendments to the Public Sernew Covid-19 variants and rising vice Act, “which would open key inf lation are among the biggest sectors to foreign investments, threats to GDP this year.

By Ma. Stella F. Arnaldo Last year, the IATF had acturacay and other [tourism destinapecially if you’re vaccinated and subject to safeguards.”

“Our main risk this year is @akosistellaBM ally approved the reopening of tions],” she said. boostered,” she said in a radio Another crucial bill the Palace any unknown variant of the viSpecial to the BusinessMirror the country to vaccinated travThe DOT chief expressed hope interview on Wednesday. wants to pass is the Livestock Derus. Other than that, there are elers from Green List countries that her proposal for reopening She added the country’s tourvelopment and Competitiveness no surprises. Other risks that we HE Philippines is ready to with visa-free status, which was to international travelers would ism workers are also prepared to Bill, which is expected to boost are aware of and [are] addressing accept foreign tourists. supposed to have taken effect on be approved by the Inter-Agency accept foreign tourists as many the “competitiveness of the liveare inflation—oil and food,” Chua showsof ofproducts, products, withhosts hosts and ByManuel ManuelT.T.Cayon Cayon T h at ’s a c c o r d i n g t o consumers become morediscerndiscernshows and By consumers become more December 1, 2021, in time for the Task Force on the Management of them are now getting their stock, poultry andwith dairy sectors.” told reporters on Viber. guests providing more details and ingand andconnected, connected, weare areseeing seeing guests providing more details and ing we Tourism Secretar y Bernadette Christmas holidays.

However, the of Emerging Infectious Diseases booster shots, a program of the Nograles said they are also eyeChua said efforts to address the giving testimonies, Zalora said. incredible innovations happening giving testimonies, Zalora said. incredible innovations happening Romulo Puyat, who said she was emergence of the Covid Omicron (I ATF) for implementation by Department of Tourism (DOT) ing the implementation of the Inimpact of inflation are being done would also help brands ininthe theretail retailsector sector that completely ItItwould help brands inin that completely proposing the reopening of the variant forced the IATF to tighten March or April.

T he proposal National in partnership with the novation Actalso of 2019 to help perk on two fronts—the transportanovate on flexible sales promoreimagine the shopping experinovate on flexible sales promoreimagine the shopping expericountr y’s borders to vaccinattravel restrictions, allowing only covers vaccinated tourists from Task Force against Covid-19. “In up the economy, by improving the tion side and the food side. This tions,such suchasas givingdiscounts, discounts, ence,”Gunjan Gunjan Soni, chiefexecutive executive tions, ence,” Soni, ed international travelers once balikbayan tourists to visit their visa-free Green List countries like Metro Manila, 55 chief percent of the productivity ofgiving micro, small and stems from the recent increase and offering easier and attracofficer of the Zalora Group, told an and offering easier and attracofficer of the Zalora Group, told an more.

“Yes, we’re ready to open medium enterprises. families in the Philippines.

Japan and Indonesia, and thus no tourism workers are now boostin oil prices. tivepayment paymentoptions optionssuch suchasasthe the onlineand presentation itsstarting Trender tive online presentation ofofits Trender [to foreign tourists] because we longer have to undergo quarantine ered, we are already buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) opReport 2021. buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) opReport 2021. know Omicron is very mild, esSee “Covid,” A2 See “Reopen,” A2 upon arrival.

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Asian shoppers. across Southeast Asia.” n US 51.2400 n japan 0.4470 n UK 68.9947 n HK 6.5805 n CHINA 8.1068 n singapore 38.0260 n australia 36.4521 n EU 57.5989 n SAUDI arabia 13.6596 Source: BSP (January 27, 2022) Indonesia, for for example, example, “It’s a a digital digital diaspora,” diaspora,” she she InIn Indonesia, “It’s Google saw saw a a “10x “10x increase increase inin said,citing citingGoogle Googletrend trendmonitormonitorGoogle said, searchesfor fore-wallet e-walletservices servicesand and ingthat thatshows shows40 40million millionnew newInInsearches ing 15xrise riseininBNPL BNPLservices servicesininthe the ternetusers userscame cameonline onlineinin2021, 2021, 15x ternet lastfive fiveyears. years.Other Otherappealing appealing “bringingthe theinternet internetpenetration penetration last “bringing payment options options like like monthly monthly SoutheastAsia Asiatoto75 75percent.” percent.” payment ininSoutheast installments,toto00percent percentinterinter“Infact, fact,eight eightout outofof10 10InterInterinstallments, “In estfees feeson oncredit creditcards, cards,provide provide netusers usersininthe theregion regionare aredigidigiest net access toto quality quality products products and and talconsumers. consumers.Recognizing Recognizingthis this talsavviness savvinessand andtaste tastefor forluxury luxury Internetand andelectronic electroniccommunicommuniaccess tal tal Internet serviceswhile whilealso alsoimproving improvingfi-fiFor one, one, the the Southeast Southeast Asia Asia shiftininadoption, adoption,brands brandsquickly quickly andsustainability. sustainability. cationgadgets gadgetsbybytheir theirside. side.Google Google services For and shift cation nancialinclusion. inclusion.

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Reopen PHL to vaxxed intl travelers–DOT Online shopping platform notes behavioral shift Online shopping platform notes behavioral shift amongconsumers, consumers,brand brandmakers makersamid amidCovid Covid among

News

BusinessMirror

A2 Friday, January 28, 2022

Growth...

Continued from A1

Exports of electronic products as a whole grew 11.9 percent in 2021 while imports of these products grew 19.1 percent last year.

Shipments of these products from the Philippines to various parts of the world amounted to $42.485 billion in 2021 while imports of this commodity amounted to $31.74 billion last year.

Exports of semiconductors grew 7.4 percent in 2021 while imports of the commodity grew 18.1 percent.

Semiconductor exports amounted to $31.15 billion while imports reached $21.88 billion last year.

The data showed the commodities that posted the highest export growth in 2021 were Telecommunication, which grew 138 percent; Ceramic Tiles and Décor, 118 percent; Iron & Steel, 93.2 percent; Fine Jewelry, 76.5 percent; and Other Coconut Products, 72.4 percent.

Commodities that posted the lowest export growth were Iron Ore Agglomerates which contracted 48.2 percent; Automotive Electronics, 42.9 percent; Bananas (Fresh), 31.7 percent; Gold, 29.3 percent; and Tuna, 19.4 percent.

In ter ms of impor ts, commodities that posted the fastest growth in 2021 were Medicinal a nd Pha r maceut ica l Products which grew 99 percent; Mineral Fuels, Lubricants and Related Materials, 91.3 percent; Other Special Transactions, 76.7 percent; Other Crude Materials, inedible, 64.9 percent; and Metalliferous Ores and Metal Scrap, 64.7 percent.

Cai U. Ordinario

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Pinoy seafarer jobs at risk from EU audit on maritime schools

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By Malou Talosig-Bartolome

HE European Commission, the executive branch of the European Union bloc, has found a number of “serious” flaws in the seafarers’ training of Philippine maritime schools which could make tens of thousands of Filipino seafarers jobless if the Philippine maritime industry fails to correct these in 42 days.

“Following an inspection conducted in 2020, the European Commission notified the Philippines of a number of deficiencies, including serious ones, identified in the Philippine seafarers’ education, training and certification system, which fails to guarantee that the requirements of the STCW Convention are met,” the EU Delegation to the Philippines told the BusinessMirror.

The STCW is short for International Convention on the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping, the international standard for seafarers required before they are allowed to board commercial ships, ferries, cruise ships or superyachts and be given the seaman’s book.

Without going through specifics,

the European Delegation in Manila identified some of the highlights of the findings of the EC and the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA): n “Inconsistencies” in relation to competences covered by the education and training programs leading to the issuing of officers’ certificates; n “Inconsistencies” in several approved programs regarding teaching and examination methods; n “Inconsistencies” in the monitoring of inspections and evaluations of the schools; and n “Concerning findings” on simulators and on-board training The EC and EMSA have been auditing Philippine compliance with

i nt e r n a t i o n a l s t a n d a r d s when certifying if a Filipino is competent to be a seafarer. This is to ensure that all crew of the ships owned by the EU member-states adhere to the inter nationa l standards on basic safety training course.

“Maritime safety is of utmost importance for the EU, in particular the seafarers’ education and training,” the EU delegation said.

The results of the EMSA and EC audit were sent to the Philippine government during the second half of December 2021 and the Philippines is required to reply within two months, or not later than March 10, 2022. This is apparently the last chance given to the Philippine maritime schools and training centers to shape up after the EC and EMSA have repeatedly given them failing marks on STCW compliance since 2006.

“In case of a negative ass e s s me nt , t he E u ro p e a n Union might eventually withdraw the recognition of the Philippines STCW system and, therefore, the certificates for masters and officers delivered by the Philippine maritime schools,” the EU Delegation said.

The EU Delegation added that if the Philippine STCW is not recognized, “existing certificates for masters and officers would continue to be recognized until the time of their natural expiry.”

Only “new” STCW certificates would not be recognized

Covid...

Continued from A1

As of Thursday, Brent crude oil prices have soared past $90 per barrel which, reports noted, is the first time in about eight years. The last time Brent crude oil prices reached this level was in 2014.

In transportation, the government has extended subsidies to public utility vehicles, Chua said, while in food, he cited programs such as support for the rice sector through the rice competitiveness enhancement fund.

The economic team is also backing bills such as the proposed livestock development and competitiveness bill to help improve the efficiency and competitiveness of the whole value chain for the livestock, poultry, and dairy sectors, he added.

“We are a very diversified economy. A nd despite the projected increase in global oil prices, we are still maintaining our 2 to 4 percent inf lation target for this year,” Chua said.

“There are other ways to mitigate, as I mentioned, the overall inflation including passage of several bills and measures to contain food prices, which is the most important that we are watching right now,” he added.

Upper Middle Income Country (UMIC)

Given the recent growth data and the policies put in place, the government is optimistic the nation cannot only recover from the pandemic, but also achieve its goal of becoming an upper middle income country this year.

Attaining UMIC status has been a goal set by the current administration. Prepandemic, the economic team said the status could have been achieved in 2020.

to work on EU flagged ships, it added.

Industry estimates put the number of Filipino seafarers around the world at 300,000350,000 at any given time, with an average deployment of 30,000-35,000 a month.

They remitted $6.539 billion or around P326.95 billion in 2019. Around 50,000 Filipinos work in European-flagged state vessels, the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) estimates.

“We are of course aware of the significant contribution of seafarers to the Filipino economy. Filipino seafarers are equally important to us since about one out of five foreign seafarers on EU-flagged ships is Filipino,” the EU Delegation added.

Still, the EU Delegation hopes that by March 10, the Philippine maritime industry would pull a last-minute miracle and conduct “necessary internal reforms and requirements” that would “fully comply” with the STCW Convention.

M a r i n a A d m i n i st r ator Vice Admira l Rober t Empedrad had earlier said he is confident they would be able to convince the EC of the reforms that they will undertake in correcting all the negative findings in the EMSA audit.

“The European Commission is committed to continue to work in partnership with the Philippines to address the STCW,” the EU Delegation said.

However, Ateneo de Manila University John Gokongwei School of Management Dean Luis F. Dumlao said attaining UMIC status may only be possible if the country grows at around 10 percent.

“The growth rate will be back to prepandemic [times or] in the vicinity of 6 percent per year. But in terms of level, GDP is short of P3 trillion had there been no pandemic,” Dumlao told the BusinessMirror.

“The more realistic expectation is to reach upper middle income in 2024.”

Local economists agreed with Dumlao and said the threat of Covid-19 and even the elections this year will affect the country’s economic prospects not only this year but in the years to come.

Action for Economic Reforms (AER) Coordinator Filomeno Sta. Ana III also told the BusinessMirror the uncertainties faced by the economy in the throes of a pandemic are just too great.

Add to this the uncertainty of a presidential election which could make investors more cautious about placing a bet on an economy like the Philippines.

The uncertainty, he said, stems from the “fear polarization and instability in the event of a Marcos presidency.”

Another monkey wrench that could complicate the recovery and attainment of the UMIC are the disasters that could derail GDP growth. Last year, nobody expected that a typhoon like Odette would lay waste to the Visayas, destroying lives and livelihood.

“We face different threats, not on ly t he u ncer t a i nt y brought about by the pandemic and the elections. Pandemic and calamity preparedness will require further investments, especially on Human Resources, and strengthening LGU capacity. LGU capacity cannot be done in an instant,” Sta. Ana said.

Continued on A5

Reopen...

Continued from A1

Vacancies open up at isolation facilities

As this developed, the Bureau of Quarantine (BoQ ) assured the public that there are now enough government isolation facilities for Covid-positive returning overseas Filipinos (ROFs), like balikbayans (homecoming Filipinos).

“There are available [isolation] facilities now. Everyday BoQ transfers more than 150 Covid-positives from quarantine hotels to isolation facilities,” said the agency’s Deputy Director Dr. Roberto M. Salvador in a Viber message to the BusinessMirror. He said these Covid-positives are from the National Capital Region, as well as Regions 3 (Central Luzon) and 4A (Calabarzon).

He failed to state the reason for the increased vacancies in isolation facilities, but noted in Filipino, “The positivity rate is still high among our arrivals.

Since the second week of December, this increased to almost 300 per day until the third week of January. This slightly dropped now but still an average of 200 arrivals per day are testing positive.”

In December, BoQ had difficulty pulling out Covid-positive ROFs from quarantine hotels as isolation facilities were overrun with locally-infected residents along w ith Cov id-positive overseas Filipino workers. This led to the IATF approving DOT’s recommendation to allow quarantining ROFs to continue their isolation in quarantine hotels. Many balikbayans, however, complained of having to pay for extra room nights for their isolation. Normally, in isolation facilities, government foots the bill for the guests’ stay.

The IATF also reduced the cap on international arrivals at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport to 3,000 per day, from the previous 4,000 per day, to help manage the rising Covid cases.

‘No compromise on health and safety’

Meanwhile, Romulo Puyat said she is also proposing that fully vaccinated travelers from Yellow List countries such as the United States only quarantine for three days instead of the current five days. “I have to fight for the reopening because our tourism industry is struggling, there are many without work or are working just part time. The good thing is, our tourism workers are already vaccinated, so they are ready to accept foreign tourists,” she said in her interview with DZMM Teleradyo’s SRO program.

But, “At the end of the day, we follow the doctors and health experts. If they say no, we can’t do anything. And we’ve always said, we will never compromise on health and safety.”

The IATF also recently approved the entry into the Philippines of fully vaccinated foreign travelers with accredited foreign vaccination cards starting February 16.

Sustain...

Continued from A1

“We will continue to pursue policies and reforms as we rebuild a stronger economy, one wherein every Filipino enjoys a safe, healthy and comfortable life,” Nograles said.

Vaccine survey

In a related development, Nograles also lauded OCTA Research December 2021 Tugon ng Masa National Survey, which he said, affirmed the soundness of the government policy to vaccinate the majority of the country’s population against Covid-19.

The report showed Covid-19 vaccine hesitancy among adult Filipinos dropped to 5 percent as the government continued to make Covid-19 jabs accessible to the public as well as implement policies, which limit the ability of the unvaccinated to go to work or ride public transportation.

As of January 26, 2022, the government was able to fully vaccinate over 58.1 million Filipinos against Covid-19.

The new OCTA Research study noted that only 2 percent of adult Filipinos contracted Covid-19 after being fully vaccinated.

“This is incontrovertible evidence that Covid-19 vaccines protect us, our loved ones, and our communities from the virus.

It also emphasizes that vaccination is a step towards the right direction in our efforts to restore normalcy,” Nograles said.

The government is aiming to inoculate 90 million Filipinos by June to protect them from Covid-19 as well as allow the business operation amid the pandemic.

www.businessmirror.com.ph

The Nation BusinessMirror

VP Leni commends Army’s peace drive in Mindanao

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ICE President and presidential aspirant Ma. Leonor “Leni” Robredo on Wednesday expressed her support to the military’s campaign to dismantle threat groups in her visit to the headquarters of the Armed Forces Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom).

Robredo, who was in Mindanao for two days visiting different provinces for her election campaign, made a short visit to the Westmincom in Zamboanga City where she was received by the area command’s top brass led by Lt. Gen. Alfredo Rosario Jr. and Naval Forces Western Mindanao commander Rear Admiral Toribio Adaci Jr. Westmincom spokesman Major Andrew Linao said that during her talks with Rosario and other commanders, Robredo commended the military’s contribution to the peace and development in Western Mindanao.

“According to VP Leni, she has observed noticeable improvements in the peace and order situation and developments in the communities during her visit to the different municipalities in the Zamboanga Peninsula, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, and Basilan,” Linao said.

“She also gave her full support to the military’s campaign on dismantling the remaining terror groups in the region,” he added.

While at the camp, the Vice President donated antigen test kits and other medical supplies to Camp Navarro General Hospital.

Linao said Rosario expressed his gratitude to Robredo for taking time to visit the command.

“It is our great honor to be visited by the Vice President of our country and to hear her words of encouragement and commendation,” the spokesman quoted Rosario as saying. Rene Acosta

Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug • Friday, January 28, 2022 A3

PNP vows probe into POGO robbery incident in Angeles involving 8 cops

By Rene Acosta @reneacostaBM

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HE Philippine National Police (PNP) has vowed to spare no one in its investigation of eight Camp Crame-based policemen who were arrested on Wednesday by their colleagues in Pampanga for allegedly robbing a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGO) in Angeles City.

“There will be no sacred cows in this investigation which will include their immediate superior officers and others who may have provided support to their activities,” PNP chief General Dionardo Carlos said.

The eight policemen who are members of the Anti-Organized Crime Unit (AOCU) of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) based at Camp Crame were apprehended by members of the CIDG Regional Field Unit 3 and CIDG Angeles City Field Unit after they reportedly barged into the premises of POGO company and allegedly robbed its employees, who are mostly Chinese.

The policemen were identified as Major Ferdinand Mendoza; Ssg. Mark Anthony Reyes Iral; Ssg. Sanny Ric S. Alicante; Cpl. Richmond P. Francia; Cpl. John Gervic N. Fajardo; Cpl. Kenneth Rheiner Ferrer Delfin; Pat. Leandro Veloso Mangale and Pat.

Hermogenes A. Rosario Jr. Carlos broke the arrest of the policemen on Wednesday after he was briefed by CIDG chief Major Gen. Albert Ignatius Ferro.

The eight policemen were arrested by their colleagues based at No.11-16 Missael Street, Diamond Subdivision, Barangay Balibago, Angeles City.

The arresting team was responding to a reported robbery in progress when they intercepted the AOCU men coming out of the house brandishing their firearms.

“When confronted, the suspects identified themselves as CIDG personnel conducting buy-bust operation for firearms. However, a fur-

ther search inside the house led to the rescue of seven Chinese and a Filipino being held captive by the group,” Carlos said.

The arresting team found the house in disarray where “12 computer terminals were set-up in the living room similar to a clandestine POGO operation.”

“The arresting team also searched a Starex van used by the suspects and recovered P300,000 cash and US dollar bills and a cal. .45 Infinity pistol,” Carlos said.

The PNP chief ordered Ferro to dig deeper into the activities of the arrested CIDG-AOCU personnel to “possibly uncover their involvement in similar previous cases.”

Marawi compensation bill inches closer to final Senate approval

By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM

S

ENATORS hailed the second reading approval Tuesday of the awaited Marawi compensation bill, affirming it was time to pay back the victims of the 2017 Marawi siege that destroyed a good part of the once progressive Islamic city.

“We need to give social justice to Marawi victims,” stressed Senate Majority Leader Miguel Zubiri.

Responding to the plea, administration and opposition senators crossed party lines to clear the way for early enactment of the funding bill to enable Marawi to quickly get back on its feet, inching closer to final approval of Senate Bill 2420,

to be known as the Marawi Siege Compensation Act, as soon as President Duterte signs the enabling bill into law.

Acknowledging the unanimous support, Zubiri thanked his Senate colleagues for passing the bill on second reading, saying: “We need this to give social justice to the victims of the Marawi siege.”

The Senate Majority Leader added: “The fact of the matter is, when you go to Marawi and Lanao del Sur, many of our kababayans there are still without homes, and still have no means of renovating or rebuilding their homes that were destroyed in the siege.”

Zubiri recalled that in 2018, he also authored and sponsored the

Former House Speaker Cayetano calls on Duterte to veto Vape Bill

By Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz @joveemarie

F

ORMER House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano has called on President Duterte to veto the Vaporized Nicotine Products Regulation Act, also known as the Vape Bill, saying it represents a “clear and present danger” to the public.

This after the Senate and the House of Representatives on Tuesday and Wednesday, respectively, ratified the report of the Bicameral conference committee which had reconciled the disagreeing versions of Senate Bill 2239 and House Bill 9007.

The measure will be transmitted to the President for his signature.

In a news statement, Cayetano said the “dangerous piece of legislation” would promote addiction and lead to serious health problems and even death.

Cayetano condemned a provision in the bill that seeks to transfer the regulation of vaporized nicotine products from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

Cayetano also warned that if the regulatory functions were moved to the DTI, the Philippines would become a laughing stock as other nations strengthen their regulations through their respective food and drugs administrations.

“This practically turns the issue of nicotine abuse from a public health concern to a money-making endeavor for the government.

Simply put, the DTI does not have the same expertise and experience to regulate these products as the FDA,” he said.

The Bicam version had also

retained the lowering of the minimum age requirement for vape users from 21 to 18 years old, but Cayetano said this means even senior high-school students will now be able to easily buy vape products.

He said there is strong scientific evidence against vaping, explaining that vape devices can transmit higher concentrations of nicotine compared with cigarettes.

Cayetano also backed former health officials as well as more than 50 medical societies, including the Philippine College of Physicians and the Philippine Medical Association, who have called on President Duterte to veto the controversial bill.

“This will undoubtedly make it harder for the country’s estimated 17 million smokers to quit and may in fact encourage a deeper dependence on nicotine among our kababayans,” he added.

The bill said posts, messages, or images by manufacturers, importers, distributors, and retailers that encourage the purchase and use of vape products would be prohibited.

Additionally, the DOH would be tasked to prescribe guidelines on the implementation of smoking and vaping restriction awareness campaigns. As for the DTI, it would consult with the FDA in setting technical standards for the safety, consistency, and quality of the vape products.

Also, manufacturers, distributors, importers, and sellers would then be given an 18-month transitory period from the issuance of the implementing rules and regulations to comply with the requirements of this measure. This would include the registration of the vape products with the DTI.

landmark Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL), in response to the Marawi siege, as “we saw that if we did not address the concerns of just and lasting peace and social justice for our brothers and sisters in Muslim Mindanao, these acts of terrorism would keep happening in other cities later on.”

He added that “in response to the siege, and the terrorism that our people were facing in Muslim Mindanao, we legislators all came together—minority and majority, no political color—to pass one of the more difficult measures that this chamber has seen, but I would also say one of the best, as we put so many game changers in it, particularly on the management and gov-

Public alerted on ‘spurious’ Comelec social media accounts

By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla

T

H E C om m i s s ion on E l e c t ion s (C ome l e c) on T hu r s d ay w a r ne d t he pu bl ic a g a i n s t f a k e s o c i a l - me d i a a c cou nt s , w h ic h m a k e u s e of t he id e nt it y of t he p ol l b o d y ’s com m i s s ione r s .

The poll body said it got reports of the recent “proliferation” of the bogus accounts in Twitter and Facebook amid its preparations for the 2022 National and Local Elections (NLE).

One of such fake accounts in Twitter was made using the identity of Comelec Commissioner Marlon S. Casquejo.

Comelec spokesman James Jimenez expressed concern of the sudden increase of such spurious accounts.

“These blatant attempts to steal the online identity of Comelec officials are potentially part of a broader attempt to undermine the integrity of the elections,” Jimenez said in a news statement issued last Thursday.

Jimenez said they are already coordinating with the concerned social-media platforms to take down the fake accounts.

“The Comelec stands ready to take legal action against the perpetrators,” he added.

Comelec urged the public to help in their efforts by reporting such fake accounts to Twitter and Facebook for violating the respective user regulation of both platforms.

ernance of the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao.”

Zubiri acknowledged that the Muslim Mindanao leaders “have been doing a very good job,” recalling that he “was told that for the first time, maraming pera ang BARMM [Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao], unlike before.

And they have prioritized important projects for the people, such as municipal buildings, day care centers, and health centers.”

At the same time, he cited

the Marawi Siege Compensation Act that created a Marawi Compensation Board to facilitate the tax-free payment of reparations to persons displaced by the Marawi siege.

“With the BOL and the Marawi Compensation Act, we are giving our brothers and sisters in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region the tools and mechanisms that they need in order to truly recover,” the senator said adding: “Makakatanggap na sila ng just compensation or financial

assistance para matulungan silang makabangon muli galing sa bangungot na nangyari sa kanila.”

For her part, Sen. Risa Hontiveros noted that the passage on second reading of the Marawi Compensation Bill was “long overdue” but quickly added that “I am very happy that we are finally getting closer to its passage. Patuloy nating pagtutulungan ito upang maipasa ngayong 18th Congress, dahil matagal na itong hinihintay ng mga kapatid natin sa Marawi.”

A4 Friday, January 28, 2022 • Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug

Economy BusinessMirror

Private sector presses govt to craft pandemic exit plan

By Tyrone Jasper C. Piad @TyronePiad

T

HE private sector is asking the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) to begin crafting an “exit plan” for the pandemic in a bid to spur economic recovery.

In a joint statement, Presidential Adviser for Entrepreneurship Jose Maria A. Concepcion and OCTA Research fellow Nicanor Austriaco cited suggestions that can help the country have forward-looking initiatives for the sake of the economy.

“It is time for the national government to transition our people from a pandemic to an endemic mindset,” they said.

Essentially, both parties want

the government to open up the economy by easing and simplifying travel restrictions. Doing so, they said, can bode well, especially for the micro, small and medium enterprises.

Concepcion and Austriaco also called for the reinstatement of the prior international travel protocols.

These include pre-departure testing within 24 hours of departure using either an RT-PCR (Reverse Transcription—Polymerase Chain Reaction) or rapid antigen test, with additional PCR-based test upon arrival; three-day quarantine; and arrival testing on the third day of quarantine, with exit permitted upon showing a negative result.

They noted these protocols were already in place but were put on hold

following the emergence of Covid-19 Omicron variant that led to more infections recently.

“At this time, the Omicron surge has peaked in the NCR [National Capital Region] and is expected to peak in the different regions of the country in the next two weeks,” they said. “In its wake, this surge will confer significant population protection throughout the archipelago.”

Concepcion and Austriaco are urging for easing of travel restrictions given the Philippines, along with Myanmar and Japan, is the strictest among the Asian countries.

“The rest have either lifted curfews and stay-at-home orders, opened their borders to non-citizens and non-residents, and have allowed all or most commercial flights to the

www.businessmirror.com.ph

DTI releases updated SRP list of prime commodities

O

country,” Concepcion said.

He said that requiring home quarantines instead of facilitybased isolations will also help in easing travel restrictions without compromising safety.

Concepcion also suggested “reallocating resources used in facility quarantines to more intensive surveillance of positive Covid-19 cases among arriving passengers as this would generate more useful data in guiding future policy.”

“The next few months will be critical in how the country will move on from the pandemic,” Concepcion said. “I believe the government should set an example and start opening the country to the world.

This will instill confidence in the vaccines and encourage more of our countrymen to take them.”

VER 70 stock keeping units (SKUs) have seen higher suggested retail prices (SRP) based on the latest price bulletin by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

On Thursday, the DTI released the updated SRP list for basic necessities and prime commodities for 216 SKUs, 73 of which saw an increase.

The products that SRP hike include canned sardines, processed milk, bread, instant noodles, salt, detergent soap, bottled water, candles, processed canned meat and canned beef, toilet soap and battery.

Some 20 of them saw 1-percent to 5-percent increase, 43 registered 6-percent to 10-percent increase while the remaining 10 SKUs had over 10-percent hike.

Laban Konsyumer Inc. (LKI) President Victorio Mario A. Dimagiba, in an interview with the BusinessMirror, said the SRP increases were alarming given that prices were hiked just last August.

Canned sardines in tomato sauce (155 grams) have SRP ranging from P13.25 to P18.40.

150 gram corned beef’s SRP is P19.25 to P34.75 while the 175 gram unit of the same product has a price of P35.80 to P39.75.

Pinoy Tasty (450 grams) and Pinoy Pandesal (250 grams) have SRPs of P38.50 and P23.50, respectively.

SRP for instant noodles (55 grams) ranges from P6.75 to P8.25.

Powdered milk (150 grams) retails at P50 to P73.30 while 3-in-1 coffee (17 grams to 33 grams) sells for P4.10 to P8.25.

Detergent bars (360 grams to 380 grams) have an SRP of P16.25 to P23.

A liter of bottled distilled water costs P25 to P27.50 while a liter of bottled purified water retails for P15.40 to P19.50.

Soaps (55 grams to 140 grams) have SRP of P12.50 to P43.25.

For AA batteries, a pack of two costs P27 to P39.95 while a pack of four retails for P46.25 to P189.25.

Tyrone Jasper C. Piad

PSA records nearly 1-M jobless workers in five HUCs in 2020

By Cai U. Ordinario

@caiordinario

N

EARLY a million workers were unemployed in five highly urbanized cities (HUCs) and provinces in 2020, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

Based on the final results of the Annual Provincial Labor Market Statistics, Cavite, Bulacan, Pangasinan, Quezon City, and Nueva Ecija posted the highest number of unemployed Filipinos in 2020.

“The improvement of the quality of the labor force and efforts to make it productive and responsive to growth are necessary for the development of the economy,” PSA said. “A clear knowledge and understanding of the size, composition, and other characteristics of the segment of the population is a big step in this direction.”

There were a total of 230,290 workers unemployed in Cavite; 203,400 in Bulacan; 202,040 in Pangasinan; 161,710 in Quezon City; and 150,380 in Nueva Ecija.

The HUCs and provinces with the least number of unemployed were La Piñas at 2,040 unemployed workers followed by Siquijor with 2,410; Kalinga, 2,850; Camiguin, 2,880; and Dinagat islands, 3,100.

Meanwhile, in terms of unemployment rate, the data showed Angeles City had the highest unemployment rate at 23.2 percent or equivalent to about 51,800 unemployed persons out of 223,680 persons in the labor force.

This was followed by Baguio City, with an unemployment rate registered

at 21 percent or 28,640 unemployed persons of the 136,570 persons in the labor force.

“There were no provinces or HUCs with an unemployment rate greater than 16 percent in 2018 and 2019 while there were 3.4 percent or 4 provinces or HUCs in 2020,” PSA said.

“In 2018 and 2019, most of the provinces and HUCs are dark-green and light-green shaded, which implies unemployment rates less than 9 percent. In 2020, there were significantly more provinces and HUCs with an unemployment rate of at least 9 percent,” it added.

In terms of underemployment, the largest number of underemployed Filipinos was in Cavite where there are 359,850 workers who are looking for more working hours. This was closely followed by Bukidnon where the underemployed reached 309,550 in 2020.

Other HUCs and provinces that saw high magnitudes of underemployed were Laguna, Rizal and Camarines Sur where there were 282,930, 237,460, and 226,910 underemployed workers.

“Employed persons who express the desire to have additional hours of work in their present job or to have additional jobs, or to have a new job with longer working hours are considered underemployed,” PSA said.

In 2020, three provinces, which recorded an underemployment rate of at least 40 percent, were Marinduque at 46 percent; Bukidnon, 41.9 percent; and Agusan del Sur, 41.4 percent.

When the economy is open, we can recover–Salceda

By Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz @joveemarie

T

HE chairman of the House Committee on Ways and Means on Thursday said that the higherthan-expected GDP figures for the fourth quarter and the full year of 2021 are signs of the country’s strong economic fundamentals, adding the government should implement mass testing to sustain the economy’s recovery momentum.

Albay Rep. Joey Sarte Salceda issued the statement after preliminary data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) showed the country’s GDP accelerated by 7.7 percent in the fourth quarter, a reversal of the 8.3-percent contraction in the fourth quarter of 2020.

“Bythatmeasure,itisclear:whentheeconomy is open, it can recover,” Salceda added.

The figure was also higher than the revised 6.9 percent in the third quarter last year. The figure also lifted full-year growth to 5.6 percent, rebounding from a record 9.6percent contraction in 2020. The full-year figure was also higher than the economic managers’ estimate of 5 to 5.5 percent.

“These are positive signs for our 2022

outlook. It is clear that we caught up in the last quarter due to a more open economy.

We should do whatever is necessary to ensure that we no longer need lockdowns,” Salceda said.

“During the last quarter, industry grew the fastest among the major sectors, at 9.5 percent year-on-year. Private consumption also grew by 7.5 percent. People consumed more goods as they were able to get out of their houses. As a result, industry also had to make more goods, employing more people and benefiting their small business suppliers,” Salceda said.

Stick to testing

SALCEDA also said that the government should still pursue mass Covid-19 testing as its most important anti-lockdown strategy.

“People have to quarantine because they get infected. They can get infected even when they are vaccinated. So, the most important distinction remains between the positives, who can infect others, and those who are not. Vaccination is a good strategy to prevent excess hospitalizations.

But to minimize transmission, we really have to test people,” Salceda said.

News BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Eastmincom: NPAs retreat to ‘unfamiliar’ Moro areas

By Manuel T. Cayon @awimailbox Mindanao Bureau Chief

D

AVAO CITY—The Armed Forces’ Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) said it has pushed New People’s Army guerrillas further into areas populated by Moro residents in the central Mindanao province of Lanao del Sur. It said it was an unlikely occurrence for the guerrillas to venture into the Moro lands, but Eastmincom commander Lt. Gen. Greg T. Almerol said the NPAs were probably seeking refuge in an “unfamiliar terrain” after they were pushed out from their territories in Bukidnon after a series of armed skirmishes in the last two weeks.

He said the presence of the NPAs in Moro areas was confirmed after government soldiers figured in armed skirmishes in the tri-boundaries of the municipalities of Amai Manabilang, Lumba-Bayabao, and Maguing, all in Lanao del Sur on January 20.

Almerol said soldiers seized firearms and war materiel. In one encounter which lasted for two hours, soldiers collected two M-16 rifles, an M-653 rifle, an M-14 rifle, an AK-47 rifle, assorted magazines for M-16, M-14 and AK-47, five linked ammunitions for M-60 GPMG, 208 rounds of AK-47 ammunitions, three bandoliers, four cellphones, assorted medical supplies and paraphernalia, backpacks with personal belongings, subversive documents, and food supplies.

There was no casualty reported in the clash but soldiers said they found bloodstains along the withdrawal route of the rebels.

The skirmish came after soldiers pursued the trail of a group of guerrillas they have encountered in the previous days in Bukidnon.

Almerol said the fleeing guerillas may number to about 30. He said soldiers of the 403rd Brigade’s 1st Special Forces Battalion (SFBn) were pursuing “the remnants of North Central Mindanao Regional Committee’s [NCMRC] Sub-Regional Committee 4 [SRC4] and SRC5 in said area.”

Duterte names OP’s Michael Ong as new CA justice

P

RESIDENT Duterte has appointed a senior official of Malacañang as an associate justice of the Court of Appeals (CA).

The appointment letter of Senior Deputy Executive Secretary Michael Pastores Ong was received by the office of Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo late afternoon Wednesday, January 26, from Executive Secretary Salvador C. Medialdea.

Ong, who graduated from Ateneo de Manila University with the degree of AB Economics, was appointed to the post vacated by Associate Justice Samuel H. Gaerlan who was elevated to the Supreme Court (SC) last January 8, 2020. Ong is a graduate of the University of the Philippines College of Law. Ong later served as Court Attorney at the Supreme Court, became Corporate Legal Counsel of Philippine National Oil Company Exploration Corporation and then appointed as Assistant Secretary at the Office of the President where he served in the Office of the Chief Presidential Legal Counsel.

After two years, he was assigned to the Office of the Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs and then took the post of senior deputy executive secretary. Joel R. San Juan

Friday, January 28, 2022 A5

5,000 jobless workers to get CAMP cash assistance soon–DOLE exec

By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla

A

ROUND 5,000 qualified beneficiaries of Department of Labor and Employment’s (DOLE) Covid-19 Adjustment Measures Program (CAMP) will soon be getting their cash aid.

Labor Assistant Secretary Domi-

nique R. Tutay disclosed the said beneficiaries are among the 22,000 applications, which they have received since they started accepting applications for CAMP 2022 on Monday.

She said another 12,000 of the said CAMP 2022 applications are still under evaluation, while the remaining 4,000 are still subjected to “further verification.”

“If their application is approved, they will have to wait for one to two weeks to get their financial assistance,” Tutay said in a televised interview last Thursday.

Each of CAMP 2022 beneficiaries will receive a one-time P5,000 financial assistance.

Tutay said applicants could follow up the status of their pending CAMP

US, Canada, UK, 27 other countries to honor PHL vaccination certificate

By Malou Talosig-Bartolome

T

HE Philippine vaccine certificate, VaxCertPH, has been recognized in 30 countries including the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, the Department of Foreign Affairs said.

Just the same, vaccine certificates issued by these 30 countries will also be recognized by the Bureau of Immigration upon arrival in the Philippines. Starting February 16, only fully vaccinated foreigners are allowed to enter the Philippines.

These are the countries which the DFA has successfully negotiated for mutual recognition and acceptance of VaxCertPH: 1. Armenia 2. Australia 3. Austria 4. Belgium 5. Canada 6. Colombia 7. Czech Republic 8. France 9. Georgia 10. Germany 11. India 12. Iraq

13. Italy 14. Japan 15. Kazakhstan 16. Kuwait 17. Monaco 18. New Zealand 19. Oman 20. Samoa 21. Singapore 22. Sri Lanka 23. Thailand 24. The Netherlands 25. Tunisia 26. Turkey 27. United Arab Emirates 28. United Kingdom 29. United States of America 30. Vietnam Filipinos or foreigners who were able to get their Covid-19 shots in the Philippines may get their vaccine certificate through the portal https:// vaxcert.doh.gov.ph. They will be required to input their full name, birthdate and vaccination details. Those who wish to use the VaxCertPH for international travel are encouraged to input their passport number too.

After that, a QR code will be generated which can be verified independently by the immigration

Covid. . . continued from a2 “Increasing resources at a time of growing deficit requires new taxes. Incoming administration must have the political will to increase taxes,” he added.

De La Salle University economist Maria Ella Oplas told this newspaper that the uncertainty of the times lends doubt to the optimism of the President’s economic team.

For one, Oplas said, the government needs to pay debt and PhilHealth has to pay hospital claims to prevent these from closing and continuing the fight against the pandemic.

Efforts to improve the labor situation are also crucial and the recent lockdowns may not have helped improve employment generation. She added the government must also assist Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) struggling to pay taxes and their debts.

“Although we will experience a boost in economic growth due to election spending, I don’t think that we can grow fast enough to become an upper middle income country within the year,” Oplas also said.

The elections and growth

HISTORICALLY, Dumlao said, an election would contribute 1 to 2 percentage points to the country’s economic growth during election years. Some economists like BPI Chief Economist Emilio S. Neri Jr. said election-related spending could add at least 1.5 percentage points to growth.

However, Unionbank Chief Economist Ruben Carlo O. Asuncion said this year is not a usual presidential election due to the pandemic. He expects that any boost from the elections this year

may be muted. “[The impact of elections will depend] on how soon Omicron peaks and how confident people are to come out to vote.

Historically, elections tend to add up to one percentage point to GDP growth rate,” Ateneo Center for Research and Development (ACERD) Associate Director Ser Percival K. PeñaReyes said.

Considering all the risks and the uncertainties, including the impact of a faster-than-expected monetary tightening in the US by the Federal Reserve, Asuncion said they expect this year’s GDP growth to average 6.2 percent.

Peña-Reyes said ACERD is slightly more optimistic of a full-year growth of 6.4 percent this year. This forecast is greatly affected by the risks faced by the economy, including the government’s “poor containment of outbreaks.”

“Risks—in an adverse scenario —include global and domestic inflation and interest rate upside surprises, energy shortage due to distribution & transmission, disorderly conduct of elections in a pandemic, [and] new Covid variants,” Neri said.

Economic performance

THE PSA said the GDP posted growth of 7.7 percent in the fourth quarter of 2021, resulting in 5.6-percent full-year growth in 2021.

The main contributors to the fourth quarter 2021 growth were: Manufacturing, 7.2 percent; Wholesale and retail trade; repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles, 7.4 percent; and Construction, 18.5 percent.

The same industries

officer at the port of entry from these countries. The Departments of Information and Communication Technology (DICT) and Health (DOH), which co-manages this site, said the VaxCertPH complies with the digital guidelines issued by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Only foreigners from these 30 countries may present their national/state digital certificate as part of the reciprocity agreement with the Philippines.

If foreigners were inoculated from countries which has not recognized the VaxCertPH, they should present WHO-issued International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICV) as proof of Covid-19 vaccination.

But if the foreigners are spouses, children, parents of OFWs, and they are traveling with the OFWs to the Philippines, the national digital/physical vaccination certificate where they were vaccinated may be presented even if the host country they come from did not recognize the VaxCertPH. Alternatively, they may also opt to get a certificate from the Philippine Overseas Labor Office.

also contributed the most to the annual growth: Manufacturing, 8.6 percent; W holesale and retail trade; repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles, 4.3 percent; and Construction, 9.8 percent.

“Our strategies in 2021 have culminated in a full-year growth that exceeded targets and expectations,” Chua said.

Among the major economic sectors, Agriculture, forestry, and fishing, Industry and Services all posted positive growths in the fourth quarter with 1.4 percent, 9.5 percent, and 7.9 percent, respectively.

On an annual basis, Industry and Services registered positive growth of 8.2 percent and 5.3 percent, respectively.

Meanwhile, Agriculture, forestry, and fishing posted a contraction of -0.3 percent.

On the demand side, Household Final Consumption Expenditure (HFCE) grew by 7.5 percent in the fourth quarter of 2021. The following items also recorded growths: Government Final Consumption Expenditure (GFCE), 7.4 percent; Gross Capital Formation (GCF), 12.6 percent; Exports, 8.3 percent; and Imports, 13.7 percent.

On an annual basis, HFCE grew by 4.2 percent, GFCE, 7.0 percent; GCF, 19.0 percent; Exports, 7.8 percent; and Imports, 12.9 percent.

Net Primary Income (NPI) from the Rest of the World grew by 15.0 percent bringing the Gross National Income (GNI) to grow by 8.0 percent in the fourth quarter of 2021. On an annual basis, NPI declined by -50.2 percent while GNI grew by 1.6 percent.

2022 applications using their tracking number.

“They can call DOLE hotline 1349 or use the tracking number given to them during the application period to follow up [on their application] via online,” Tutay said.

DOLE allocated P1 billion of its budget this year for the program, which aims to assist workers, who

permanently or temporarily lost their jobs, when the government hoisted an Alert Level 3 or up in their areas.

Tutay explained they already downloaded an initial P130 million from the allocated fund to their regional offices to provide CAMP benefits to an initial 25,000 target beneficiaries.

Comelec readies 150K polling precincts for May elections

T

HE Commission on Elections (Comelec) is aiming prepare around 105,000 polling precincts for the upcoming 2022 polls to ensure social distancing protocols will be strictly implemented on election day.

Comelec spokesman James Jimenez disclosed this was higher compared to the 80,000 polling precincts in the 2019 mid-term elections.

He noted they will be employing “spacing” between polling precincts to avoid potential overcrowding during the polls.

Currently, Jimenez said they are still finalizing the list of venues, which will serve as polling precincts.

“Our preference [for the polling precincts] of course are public schools, but within the public school we cannot get all the classrooms because we have to maintain spacing,” Jimenez said in a virtual

forum last Wednesday.

“Unlike before, when we have an easier time setting up polling places because we can pick any classroom, now we have to make sure it is large, well ventilated, and spacious,” Jimenez said.

Jimenez reminded the voters that on election day, they will strictly implement minimum health standards in polling places to prevent the spread of the virus in the said venues.

The said measure includes requiring voters to undergo health screening, which includes temperature checks. Those who will show Covid-19 symptoms will be diverted to an isolation polling place.

Voters will also be required to wear a facemask and shields.

Comelec is aiming to come out with the final list of polling precincts by the end of February. Samuel P. Medenilla

US says TY to Pinoy doctors, personnel who treated American pilots in mishap

T

HE US Embassy in Manila showed appreciation to the Filipino doctors and other medical personnel who treated the three American sailors seriously injured in a crash-landing mishap on the USS Carl Vinson in the South China Sea Monday.

“The United States is so grateful for the care and professionalism of the medical personnel who have been looking after them. All the US sailors evacuated to Manila are in stable condition,” US Chargé d’Affaires Heather Variava told Manila-based diplomatic reporters via Zoom video conference Thursday.

An F-35C stealth fighter fell into the South China Sea after attempting to land aboard the aircraft carrier last January 24.

The F-35C Lightning II struck the flight deck before falling into the water, injuring seven sailors including the pilot who ejected and later rescued by a helicopter.

Three of the 7 sailors were flown to Manila, while the four others were treated inside the aircraft carrier.

A US Naval Institute’s online news report said the pilot of

the stealth jet was one of the three sailors who were medically evacuated to an undisclosed facility in the Philippines.

The $100-million stealth jet remains missing, and the US Navy has been scrambling to find it.

The Embassy wouldn’t say if the accident occurred in the Philippine-claimed area called the West Philippine Sea. “I have to refer you to the US Navy and others about the nature of the accident,” Variava said, adding that the US aircraft carrier was just passing through the region when the accident happened.

The Carl Vinson was taking part in a dual-carrier training operation that began Sunday and included the USS Abraham Lincoln and their respective carrier strike groups.

“About the nature of the accident, as you know the South China Sea is a large body of water where there are large traffic passes both trade and security-related traffic. The USS Carl Vinson was just passing through the region as part of its regular scheduled movements,” the acting US ambassador explained.

Malou Talosig-Bartolome

Gadon: Leni camp met with FB executives continued from a12

“Leni’s team had a meeting with our senior officials, including Philippine public policy manager Chris Kuzhuppilly, head of politics and government outreach, Roy Tan and Kylie Mooney. They plan to suspend massive BBM supporters’ accounts one week before campaign period starts. A middle man helping Leni’s team reach to FB is closely connected with US.” Leni and her team are reportedly making it appear that the FB pages of millions of UniTeam supporters are fake accounts, Gadon said. Gadon also confirmed that a middleman with connections in the United States was the one who brokered Leni camp’s meeting with the FB executives.

A6

BusinessMirror

Friday, January 28, 2022

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

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

THUKRAL, SAURABH Service Delivery Ops Senior Manager 1.

Brief Job Description: Manage client relationships and providing industry insights and experience. Responsible for overseeing the daily operational performance management and ensure both contractual and operational kpis of the entire project are met.

Basic Qualification: CPA an advantage but not required; preferred are graduates of accounting, business or its branches.

BPO experience required; proficient in MS office, sap, or any accounting-related ERPS; strong verbal and oral communication & clientfacing skills; minimum of 6-year experience in the finance and accounting field; positive approach in supporting customer & company needs; with solid managerial experience.

No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

8.

Brief Job Description: Develop a strong understanding of the performance across all activities and implement a monitoring process and cycle.

EUINTON, GORDON CHARLES Project Manager 2.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for the overall management on earthwork projects. Provide monitoring, supervision, and coordination over water dam construction activities.

WONGRAMPHAN, YANYONG Technical Assistant For Geology And Excavation 3.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for the Inspection of all activities related to the operation of rock quarries and borrow areas, and exploration of new material required for production of the following processed construction materials.

Basic Qualification: Experience developing dam design and construction

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

9.

10.

4.

Brief Job Description: Acts as front to end project leader of AMC medium/large size projects; identifies and collects ideas, business requirements and needs, defines the scope of the project, determines the feasibility by building a business case and defines project objectives within agreed project management guidelines; formulates the project plan including resourcing, planning, risk mitigation, quality control and organizational requirements and determines budget and acquires approval, in line with project objectives.

12.

13.

GUO, QISHUI Senior Business Development Manager 5.

Brief Job Description: Collect and analyze business demands to develop market and product strategies to support the growth of Alibaba industries

Basic Qualification: College graduate Salary Range: Php 500,000 and above

JIA, MEIJUN Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Customer Service

TANG, CHONG Mandarin Speaking Marketing Officer 18.

DALY, RICHELLA ANN Vice President / Treasurer 19.

Brief Job Description: Determining company success and deciding on improvements

KIM, KILWON General Manager, Administration Group 20.

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

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

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

Basic Qualification: 5 or more years in a managerial role Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

KEPCO ILIJAN CORPORATION 18/f Citibank Center, 8741 Valero St. Cor. Villar St., Bel-air, City Of Makati

Basic Qualification: College Graduate/ Level and Fluent in Mandarin/ Basic English

Basic Qualification: College Graduate/ Level and Fluent in Mandarin/ Basic English

Brief Job Description: Optimize CRM campaigns & newsletter based on performance and engagement data

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

JCC ASIA BACK OFFICE INC. 29/f Rufino Pacific Tower, 6784 Ayala Ave., San Lorenzo, City Of Makati

Brief Job Description: Manage & shall have overall responsibility of Corporate organization

LEE, DALHUN President And CEO 21.

Brief Job Description: Have overall responsibility operation & management of 1200MW NGPP

Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree; Proficient in English and Korean languages with 8 years relates work experience.

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

Basic Qualification: Master Degree holder; Proficient in English/ Korean language.

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

LUCKY BINTANG CONSULTANCY INC. Unit G-02 Makati Executive Tower 2, 7652 Dela Rosa St. Cor. P. Medina St., Pio Del Pilar, City Of Makati

SILVIA WIJAYA Mandarin Administrative Specialist

Basic Qualification: Can speak Mandarin

Brief Job Description: Creates and revise systems and procedures

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

HAO, BOJIE Mandarin Operations Specialist

Basic Qualification: Can speak Mandarin

Brief Job Description: Maintain Accurate sales records

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

XIANG, PAN Mandarin Operations Specialist

Basic Qualification: Can speak mandarin

Brief Job Description: Maintain accurate sales records

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

22.

HUANG, XIAOGANG Mandarin Technical Support 14.

Brief Job Description: Monitoring and maintaing computer systems and networks

MA, JIANAN Chinese Business Consultant

Basic Qualification: Can Speak Mandarin Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

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

CAO, WEIWEI Technical Support Engineer 15.

Brief Job Description: Research and identify solutions to software and hardware issues; Ensures all issues are properly logged

Basic Qualification: College graduate; Excellent verbal and written communication skills in both Mandarin and English; with the experience in telecommunications network troubleshooting

Brief Job Description: Responsible that all the information from the Chinese and Vietnamese client to local documentation officer are correct.

Responsible to follow up local liaison officer of all immigration issues and operations remaining up to date with any changes to legislation and overseeing all the aspects involved in processing a visa and immigration services

Basic Qualification: Preferably 6 months -1year as Visa Consultant; Fluent in Mandarin or Vietnam and English Language Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

MAIDEHAO TRADING, CORP. Unit 1202 & 1203 The Finance Centre, 26th Corner 9th Ave., Bgc, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

23.

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

ALIBABA CLOUD INTELLIGENCE PHILIPPINES, INC. Unit 25, 25th Floor, Six Neo, 5th Avenue Corner 26th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

Brief Job Description: Customer Service

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

XING, LINGLING Visa Consultant 11.

WARMELINK, DIANNE Commercialization Project Manager

GUO, SHIJIE Customer Service Representative

No.

FLYING FUTURE SERVICES INC. 3/f Salcedo One Center, 170 Salcedo St., San Lorenzo, City Of Makati

ALASKA MILK CORPORATION Corinthian Plaza Bldg., P. De Roxas, San Lorenzo, City Of Makati

Basic Qualification: Bachelor or master’s degree, preferably in supply chain management; more than 5 years of work experience in the FMCG industry, preferable in an operational supply chain/manufacturing environment; fluent in English, written and spoken; with strong planning, organization and analytical skills and excellent project management skills; with strong advisory and interpersonal skills and ability to motivate and commit others to drive continuous improvement culture and mind-set.

Basic Qualification: Masters/Degree in Business Management, Process Control Management or related fields. Indepth knowledge of market best practices and benchmarking for effective and efficient in business management, processes & cost optimization, performance standards and transformation programs.

FLYING DRAGON NETWORK PHILIPPINES INC. 4th-11th Floor Aseana 3 Building, Aseana Avenue Corner Diosdado Macapagal, Tambo, City Of Parañaque

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

Basic Qualification: Experience developing dam design and construction

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

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

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

AFRY CONTRACTING PHILIPPINES, INC. 8/f King’s Court Bldg., 2129 Don Chino Roces Ave., Pio Del Pilar, City Of Makati

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

ENGIE SOUTH EAST ASIA PTE. LTD. Unit 1901-1903, 19/f Ibp Tower, Julia Vargas And Jade Drive, Ortigas Center, San Antonio, City Of Pasig

DREANIC, JEAN-BAPTISTE Head Of Business Performance And Process Excellence

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Brief Job Description: meeting with and advising senior executives throughout the consultation process

Basic Qualification: excellent oral and written communication both in English and mandarin Chinese Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

MINDSCAPE CREATIVES INC. Unit 19-o, Burgundy Corporate Tower, 252 Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Pio Del Pilar, City Of Makati

24.

HOANG THI DIEU Mandarin Customer Service Brief Job Description: Responsible for handling service support calls

Basic Qualification: Proficient in Speaking, Reading and Writing Mandarin Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. 4th-11th Flr. Nexgen Tower, C4 Rd. Edsa Ext., Barangay 76, Pasay City

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999 COGNIZANT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS PHILIPPINES, INC. 2nd, 3rd, And 4th Floors, Science Hub Tower 4 Bldg., Mckinley Hill Cyberpark, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

VENKATESAN, SHRIDHARAN Programmer Analyst 6.

Brief Job Description: Collaborates with project stakeholders to identify product and technical requirements; Conducts analysis to determine integration needs

SARKAR, ANGIRA Sr. Consultant 7.

Brief Job Description: Business Test Analysis, scoping of automation and manual test execution strategy, development of automation test scripts using selenium and java.

CHEN, JIAWEI Chinese Customer Service HITACHI, LTD. 10 Rcbc Plaza, 6819 Ayala Ave. Cor. Sen. Gil J. Puyat Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati

Basic Qualification: 3+ years of Experience in US Healthcare specialized in wellness domain and software testing life cycle agile methodology Salary Range: Php 90,000 - Php 149,999

Basic Qualification: Healthcare business domain knowledge in claims, enrolment, provider, authorization & care management; Good experience in data warehouse technologies OLTP & OLAP DB structure, SQL Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

16.

KAWABE, TAKAHIRO General Manager Brief Job Description: Manage and oversee overall branch operations

Basic Qualification: Fluent in reading and writing Japanese and English languages, more than 20 years of experience in power plant engineering design and project management.

25.

FENG, XING Chinese Customer Service 26.

Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999 27.

17.

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

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

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries GONG, SHIKE Chinese Customer Service

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

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires HAN, DONGYE Chinese Customer Service

28.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read, and write Chinese language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read, and write Chinese language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read, and write Chinese language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read, and write Chinese language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION LI, SHIMING Chinese Customer Service

29.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries

SUN, YUNPENG Chinese Customer Service 30.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires

VI THI NINH Chinese Customer Service 31.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires

VONG MY LIN Chinese Customer Service 32.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires

VONG MY LINH Chinese Customer Service 33.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires

WOR MA TAR Chinese Customer Service 34.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries

YANG, HONG Chinese Customer Service 35.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires

ZHANG, HAILI Chinese Customer Service 36.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries

ZHAO, FEI Chinese Customer Service 37.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read, and write Chinese language

No.

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

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

ZHAO, YONGGANG Mandarin Deputy Project Supervisor 47.

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

38.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries

ZOU, SONGJIE Chinese Customer Service 39.

40.

41.

42.

43.

44.

45.

46.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries

AO, ZHIQUAN Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Customer service

CHEN, LU Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Customer service

LI, JINGHUA Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Customer service

LIU, CHUANQI Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Customer service

WEI, JIAN Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Customer service

WU, HANXU Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Customer service

ZOU, CHANGHE Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Customer service

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Deputy Project Supervisor will be strategist and a leader able to steer the company to the most profitable direction while also implementing its vision, mission, and long-term goal.

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

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

PALLEVADA, SIRISH KRISHNA Country Sales Manager 48.

49.

JIANG, ZHAOFENG Chinese Project Consultant 50.

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

Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read, and write Chinese language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Provide feedback advice project updates and encouragement to all members

Brief Job Description: Developing and supporting the development of the design working with task related to project management, contract administration inspecting the work of construction contractors, advising ion sustainability and giving advice and helping develop a project

LI, YANGTAO Chinese Project Manager 51.

Brief Job Description: Inspecting construction sites regularly to identify and eliminate potential safety hazards. Supervising and instructing the construction team as well as subcontractors

Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read, and write Chinese language FAN, XIANGTAO Chinese Site Supervisor

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

Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read, and write Chinese language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

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

FUJIMOTO, SHUHEI General Manager For Operations Department 53.

Brief Job Description: The general manager for Operations is an integral part of the Management team and of the Management Committee. He serves as the head of the Operation team responsible.

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

Basic Qualification: College graduate/level and fluent in Mandarin / basic English Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

54.

Basic Qualification: College graduate/level and fluent in Mandarin / basic English Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: College graduate/level and fluent in Mandarin / basic English

Brief Job Description: With high Chinese and English Speaking Skills; Must handle customer complain in a satisfactory manner.

LEE, PUI CHEONG VICTOR Chinese Customer Service 55.

Brief Job Description: With high Chinese and English Speaking Skills; Must handle customer complain in a satisfactory manner.

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

Basic Qualification: College graduate/level and fluent in Mandarin / basic English

ZENG, XIAOJUN Chinese Customer Service 56.

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

Basic Qualification: College graduate/level and fluent in Mandarin / basic English

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

Basic Qualification: Fluent in English college graduate.

ISLAM, MD SAFIQUL Chief Accounting Officer 58.

YAMAMOTO, KEI Administrative Lead For 230kv Transmission Project 57.

Brief Job Description: To gain insight on client requirements and ensure customer satisfaction; to support the project by developing the supply plan ensuring timely arrival of goods and preparing the delivery of supplies

Brief Job Description: Reporting locals to CFO Philippines the cao directs all aspects of financial management present accurate and timely information recommendations to senior stakeholders execute strategic business objective and ensure compliance with regulatory reporting requirements for multiple entities

Salary Range: Php 500,000 and above

TIGER RESORT, LEISURE AND ENTERTAINMENT, INC. Okada Manila, New Seaside Drive, Entertainment City, Barangay Tambo, City Of Parañaque

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

Basic Qualification: Fluent in mandarin and English language both written and verbal. With working knowledge in the field of construction Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Fluent in mandarin and English language both written and verbal. With working knowledge in the field of construction

Basic Qualification: Must have at least a bachelor’s degree in culinary and at least 8 years of international experience in culinary management

TEUSCHLER, JOSEF LORENZ Director - Culinary 59.

Brief Job Description: Directly oversees and leads the company’s culinary management team in their efforts to maximize growth and long-term profit through the development of new menu items

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

TRI7 SOLUTIONS, INC. Unit 9-a 9/f Marvin Plaza Bldg., 2153 Don Chino Roces Ave., Pio Del Pilar, City Of Makati

Basic Qualification: proficient in writing, reading and speaking in both english/ bahasa/thai/chinese/ vietnamese/malay

CHEN, PENG Chinese Language Customer Service Representative 60.

Brief Job Description: report on a daily basis operation of call center activities performing customer oriented telephone activities & various background operation duties

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

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

Basic Qualification: Fluent in mandarin and English language both written and verbal. With working knowledge in the field of construction Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Bachelor Degree in Business or Management preferred Japanese. 5 to 10 + years of experience at a senior sales level and/or marketing capacity.

Basic Qualification: 18-55 yrs. old with good oral and written communication skills; with knowledge in computer applications.

61.

Brief Job Description: report on a daily basis operation of call center activities performing customer oriented telephone activities & various background operation duties

62.

QU, XINGTAI Mandarin Accounts Staff

Basic Qualification: Can speak Mandarin

Brief Job Description: Support & manage existing customer accounts

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

QU, MINGQIANG Mandarin Customer Service 63.

Basic Qualification: Can speak Mandarin

Brief Job Description: Opens customer accounts by recording account info.

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

Basic Qualification: Must be able to communicate in English and Japanese (with certification in Japanese language proficiency test); knowledgeable in corporate finances Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

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

VESTAS SERVICES PHILIPPINES, INC. 12/f Five E-com Center, Harbor Drive, Barangay 76, Pasay City

PREETZMANN, ISIDORA ANTIC Head Of Business Improvement - Service Asp 64.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for driving continuous improvement and supporting execution of the service strategy

Basic Qualification: Strong leadership ability, mature outlook, strong analytical ability Salary Range: Php 500,000 and above

VPC CORPORATE SOLUTIONS INCORPORATED 11/f 100 West, Sen Gil Puyat Ave. Cor., Washington St., Pio Del Pilar, City Of Makati

SEEDALONG, NATTHA Thai-speaking Customer Service Officer 65.

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

Basic Qualification: 18-55 yrs. old with good oral and written communication skills; with knowledge in computer applications.

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

URBANDIDEAS INC. Unit 17-m Burgundy Corporate Tower, 252 Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Pio Del Pilar, City Of Makati

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

Basic Qualification: 18-55 yrs. old with good oral and written communication skills; with knowledge in computer applications.

Basic Qualification: proficient in writing, reading and speaking in both English/ Bahasa/Thai/Chinese/ Vietnamese/Malay

PHAM HOANG VU Vietnamese Language Customer Service Representative

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

SUMITOMO ELECTRIC INDUSTRIES, LTD. PHILIPPINES BRANCH 4/f King’s Court I Bldg., 2129 Don Chino Roces Ave., Pio Del Pilar, City Of Makati

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

Basic Qualification: College graduate/level and fluent in Mandarin / basic English

Brief Job Description: With high Chinese and English Speaking Skills; Must handle customer complain in a satisfactory manner.

Basic Qualification: Resilient and adaptable professional with a minimum of 15 years of financial experience in a leadership position is preferred proven team leadership abilities a complex operating environment strong communication both verbal and written and interpersonal skills and experience of broadbased stakeholder management proven knowledge and ability to adopt a constructive and pro-active approach to changing market conditions and regulations

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

SHIBUYA SOLUTIONS INC. Unit 903-c Vicente Madrigal Bldg., 6793 Ayala Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati

WONG, CHIN KEET Australia Customer Service

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

Basic Qualification: College graduate and fluent in English.

SAIGA MACHINERY RENTAL, INC. 4th Floor Unit C And D Commerce And Industry Plaza Building, Mckinley Town Center Park Avenue, Pinagsama, City Of Taguig

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

Basic Qualification: College graduate/level and fluent in Mandarin / basic English

Brief Job Description: Inspecting construction sites regularly to identify and eliminate potential safety hazards. Supervising and instructing the construction team as well as subcontractors

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

THE HONGKONG AND SHANGHAI BANKING CORPORATION LIMITED - PHILIPPINE BRANCH 3058 Hsbc Center, 5th Ave. West, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

Basic Qualification: Proven experience as a Mandarin Deputy Project Supervisor, Familiarity, knowledge and awareness on Machinery and Heavy Equipment use by company, Demonstrable experience in developing strategic business plan.

POWERCHINA PHILIPPINES CORPORATION Unit 2101 21/f Bdo Equitable Tower, 8751 Paseo De Roxas, Bel-air, City Of Makati

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

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

Brief Job Description: Conceptualize and recommend new products and features and future partners.

MULLIN, STEPHEN JOHN Senior Project Consultant

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

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

No.

NEW CHANGE TECHNICAL CONSULTANTS INC. 7/f Glorietta 4, Ayala Center, San Lorenzo, City Of Makati

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

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

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

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

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

A7

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

NEPC POWER CONSTRUCTION CORP. 15/f Cyber One Bldg., Eastwood Cyberpark City, Bagumbayan, Quezon City

52.

ZHAO, SHUAI Chinese Customer Service

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Friday, January 28, 2022

Brief Job Description: Prepares product or service reports by collecting and analyzing customer information

Basic Qualification: Foreign language speaking Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Y HOTELS AND RESORTS GROUP INC. 27/f Citybank Tower, Valero St., Bel-air, City Of Makati

WU, WITT Chief Executive 66.

Brief Job Description: In charge of the hotel and resort business operation and growth

Basic Qualification: Hospitality Management; Recreation and Leisure Services Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 *Date Generated: Jan 27, 2022

Any person in the Philippines who is competent, able and willing to perform the services for which the foreign national is desired may file an objection at DOLE National Capital Region located at DOLE-NCR Building, 967 Maligaya St., Malate Manila, within 30 days after this publication.

Please inform DOLE National Capital Region if you have any information on criminal offense committed by the foreign nationals.

ATTY. SARAH BUENA S. MIRASOL REGIONAL DIRECTOR

A8

Friday, January 28, 2022

The World BusinessMirror

England scraps restrictions as Omicron threat recedes

L

ONDON—Most coronavirus restrictions including mandatory face masks were lifted in England on Thursday, after Britain’s government said its vaccine booster rollout successfully reduced serious illness and Covid-19 hospitalizations.

From Thursday, face coverings are no longer required by law anywhere in England, and a legal requirement for Covid passes for entry into nightclubs and other large venues has been scrapped.

The government last week dropped its advice for people to work from home as well as guidance for face coverings in classrooms.

The so-called “Plan B” measures were introduced in early December to stop the rapid spread of the Omicron variant from overwhelming health services and to buy time for the population to get its booster vaccine shot.

Health Secretary Sajid Javid said the government’s vaccine rollout, testing and development of antiviral treatments combine to make “some of the strongest

defenses in Europe,” allowing a “cautious return” to normality.

But he added that “as we learn to live with Covid, we need to be clear eyed that this virus is not going away.” While infections continue to fall, health officials said that Omicron remained prevalent across the country, especially among children and the elderly.

Officials said that almost 84 percent of people over 12 years old in the UK have had their second vaccine dose, and that of those eligible, 81 percent have received their booster shot.

Hospital admissions and the number of people in intensive care units have stabilized or fallen, and daily cases have fallen from a peak of over 200,000 cases a day around New Year to under

Workers walk over London Bridge towards the City of London financial district during the morning commute, in London on January 24. The British government has asked people to return to working in offices starting Monday as they ease coronavirus restrictions. AP/Matt Dunham

100,000 in recent days.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said last week that the surge of Omicron infections “has now peaked nationally.”

As the government moved away from legal measures, some shops and public transport operators say they will continue to ask people to don their face masks. London Mayor Sadiq Khan said face coverings will still be required on the capital’s buses and subway trains.

The legal requirement for those

infected to self-isolate for five full days remains, but Johnson said that measure will also end soon, to be replaced with advice and guidance for those infected to be cautious.

Health officials have said they are planning a longer-term, postpandemic strategy that treats Covid-19 more like the flu.

Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, which make their own public health rules, have similarly relaxed their virus restrictions. AP

EU launches WTO action against China over Lithuania restrictions

B

RUSSELS—The European Union said Thursday it has launched action against China at world trade’s governing body for engaging in discriminatory practices against Lithuania, saying that Beijing’s spat with the Baltic country is hitting other EU exports.

Lithuania broke with diplomatic custom by agreeing that the Taiwanese office in Vilnius would bear the name Taiwan instead of Chinese Taipei, a term used by other countries to avoid offending Beijing. China considers Taiwan part of its territory with no right

to diplomatic recognition.

Beijing expelled the Lithuanian ambassador and withdrew its own ambassador. Last month, Lithuania closed its own embassy in the Chinese capital. Tensions have mounted, and Lithuania accuses Beijing of holding up goods at China’s borders. The EU is now turning to the World Trade Organization.

“Launching a WTO case is not a step we take lightly. However, after repeated failed attempts to resolve the issue bilaterally, we see no other way forward than to request WTO dispute settlement consultations

with China,” European Commission Executive Vice-President Valdis Dombrovskis said.

“The EU is determined to act as one and act fast against measures in breach of WTO rules, which threaten the integrity of our single market. We are in parallel pursuing our diplomatic efforts to deescalate the situation,” he said in a statement.

T he European Commission manages trade on behalf of the 27 EU member countries. It says it has built up evidence of Chinese restrictions. They include a refusal to clear Lithuanian goods through customs, the rejection of import

applications from Lithuania, and pressuring European companies operating out of other EU countries to remove Lithuania from their supply chains when exporting to China.

The first stage of the EU’s action under WTO dispute settlement rules involves a “request for consultations” under which the bloc will formally ask China for more information about its measures with the aim of resolving the dispute amicably.

If no results are achieved within 60 days, the EU can request that a WTO panel rule on the dispute. AP

Canada extends military training mission in Ukraine

T

ORON TO — Ca nad a is extending its mission to train Ukrainian soldiers by three years and plans to enlarge the operation, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Wednesday.

Trudeau said he has authorized the military to deploy 60 more personnel to join 200 troops already on the ground, with further capacity to increase that number up to 400. It’s part of a $340 million Canadian (US$268 million) commitment.

Trudeau said Russia is using its military might and heft to bully and threaten an independent democracy in an effort to try to get Ukraine to bow to its will.

“It’s a threat not just to Ukrainians. It is a threat to all of us who believe in the rights of citizens to elect their governments and pick the direction of their country,” Trudeau said.

“We are seeing around the world right now a back sliding of democracy, an attack on demo-

cratic principles in many different forms. But the direct threat of a Russian invasion, to take control of Ukraine, to take away the choice of Ukrainian people to chose their future...It’s something that concerns all of us who cherish democracy.”

Trudeau said the effort also includes a provision of non-lethal equipment, intelligence sharing and support to combat cyberattacks.

The Canadian mission is in-

tended to support Ukrainian forces so the country can defend its sovereignty, security and territorial integrity, the prime minister said.

“This is not a combat mission, this is a training mission. The Canadian military will be there to advise and assist. We will continue training,” Trudeau said. “In the event of a Russian incursion or invasion into Ukraine we will ensure that Canadian military remain safe.” AP

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

Fed plans to raise rates in March to cool inflation

W

A S H I N G T O N —T h e Federal Reserve signaled Wednesday that it will begin a series of interest-rate hikes in March, reversing pandemic-era policies that have fueled hiring and growth—and stock market gains—but also stubbornly high inflation.

Chair Jerome Powell said at a news conference that inflation has gotten “slightly worse” since the Fed last met in December. He said raising the Fed’s benchmark rate, which has been pegged at zero since March 2020, will help prevent high prices from becoming entrenched.

Seeking to calm fears that higher rates might hurt the economy, Powell said the central bank can manage the process in a way that prolongs growth and keeps unemployment low. “I think there is quite a bit of room to raise interest rates without threatening the labor market,” he said.

Economists said they were surprised by the likely timing and intensity of rate hikes sketched out

by Powell, who said the economy is stronger now than in 2015, when the Fed began to raise rates slowly. “The Fed is signaling that they are going to be moving earlier, and maybe at a quicker pace, than we thought,” said Steve Rick, chief economist at CUNA Mutual Group.

The Fed’s rate hikes will make it more expensive, over time, to borrow for a home, car or business. The Fed’s intent is to temper economic growth and cool off inflation, which is at a 40-year high and eating into Americans’ wage gains and household budgets.

“The best thing we can do to support continued labor market gains,” Powell said, “is to promote a long expansion, and that will require price stability.”

The central bank’s latest policy statement follows dizzying gyrations in the stock market as investors have been gripped by fear and uncertainty over just how fast and far the Fed will go to reverse its low-rate policies, which have nurtured the economy and the markets for years.

The broad S&P 500 index fell nearly 10 percent this month and fell slightly Wednesday.

Asked about the stock mark et ’s w i ld vol at i l it y, Powe l l stressed that the Fed ’s “ultimate focus” is on the “real economy.”

But he suggested that the recent market moves are a positive sign: “We feel like the communications we have with market participants and the general public are working.”

High inflation has become a serious political threat to President Joe Biden and congressional Democrats, with Republicans pointing to rising prices as one of their principal lines of attack as they look toward the November elections.

Biden said last week that it was “appropriate” for Powell to adjust the Fed’s policies. And congressional Republicans have endorsed Powell’s plans to raise rates, providing the Fed with rare bipartisan support for tightening credit.

“The risk is for a faster pace of Fed tightening given the stickiness of inflation,” said Kathy Bostjancic, an economist at Oxford Economics, a consulting firm.

Supply-chain and labor-market constraints have lasted longer than the Fed anticipated. Consumer prices are rising at 7 percent—well above the Fed’s long-run inflation target of 2 percent—and Powell said the outlook for the US economy remains uncertain.

Powell said that while he thinks shipping bottlenecks and labor constraints will ease over time, it’s critical for Fed policymakers to have “humility” and to be “nimble’’ in their decision-making.

For now, Powell said Fed policymakers are “of a mind to raise the federal funds rate at the March meeting, assuming that conditions are appropriate for doing so.”

The Fed also said it will phase out in March monthly bond purchases that have been intended to reduce longer-term rates. And in another step that will tighten credit, the policymakers said they would start reducing their huge $9 trillion balance sheet this year, which some economists think will start by July.

Powell and the Fed were “very, very clear that rate hikes are imminent, that the scope for rate hikes is large, and that they are moving quickly toward reducing the size of the Fed balance sheet,” said Eric Winograd, US economist at AB, an asset manager.

The central bank faces a delicate and even risky balancing act.

If the stock market is engulfed by more chaotic declines, economists say, the Fed might decide to delay some of its credit-tightening plans. Modest drops in share prices, though, won’t likely affect the Fed’s thinking.

Some economists have expressed concern that the Fed is already moving too late to combat high inflation. Others say they worry that the Fed may act too aggressively. They argue that numerous rate hikes could unnecessarily slow hiring. In this view, high prices mostly reflect snarled supply chains that the Fed’s rate hikes are powerless to cure.

Powell has acknowledged that he failed to foresee the persistence of high inflation, having long expressed the belief that it would prove temporary.

The inflation spike has broadened to areas beyond those that were affected by supply shortages—to apartment rents, for example—which suggests it could endure even after goods and parts flow more freely. AP

WHO staff complaint, e-mail allege racism, abuse in Asia C

urrent and former staffers have accused the top director of the World Health Organization in the Western Pacific of racist, unethical and abusive behavior that has undermined the U.N. health agency’s efforts to curb the coronavirus pandemic.

The allegations were laid out in an internal complaint filed in October and again in an e-mail last week, sent by unidentified “concerned WHO staff ” to senior leadership and the executive board and obtained by the Associated Press. Two of the authors said more than 30 staffers were

involved in writing it, and that it reflected the experiences of more than 50 people.

The internal complaint and the e-mail describe a “toxic atmosphere” with “a culture of systemic bullying and public ridiculing” at WHO’s Western Pacific headquarters in Manila, led by Dr. Takeshi Kasai, director of a vast region that includes China and his home country of Japan. The AP also has obtained recorded snippets of meetings where Kasai is heard making derogatory remarks about his staff based on nationality. Eleven former or current WHO staffers who

worked for Kasai told the AP he frequently used racist language.

Staffers, who did not identify themselves to WHO “for fear of retaliation,” said in the e-mail that Kasai’s authoritarian style has led to the departure of more than 55 key staff in the past year and a half, most of whom have not been replaced. This resulted in a lack of understanding and involvement with member countries that “significantly contributed” to a surge of cases in many countries in the region, they said. However, other WHO staffers pointed out that spikes in Covid cases were due

to numerous reasons, including countries’ own resources and the timing of their national efforts.

The complaint and message also accused Kasai of improperly sharing potentially sensitive vaccine information with Japan, one of 37 countries in the region he leads.

In an e-mail to the AP, Kasai denied allegations of racism and unethical behavior. He said that after receiving the e-mail last week, he immediately took steps to communicate with all his staff.

“I ask a lot of myself, and our staff,” he said. “This has particularly been the case during the Covid-19

response. But it should not result in people feeling disrespected.”

Kasai said he was committed to making changes that would ensure “a positive work environment” for all WHO staff in the region. However, an internal WHO message seen by the AP shows that in a meeting last week, Kasai ordered all his senior directors and country representatives to “reject” the accusations made in the e-mail and to “totally support” him.

A mong t he most d amning claims is that Kasai made “racist and derogatory remarks to staff of certain nationalities.” The in-

ternal complaint filed to WHO alleges that Kasai once aggressively questioned a Filipino staffer during a coronavirus meeting, saying: “How many people in the Pacific have you killed so far and how many more do you want to kill further?” The complaint said he then asked “if she was incapable of delivering good presentations because she was Filipina.”

Several WHO officials present when the statements were made confirmed to the AP that the regional director has made See “WHO,” A9

www.businessmirror.com.ph

WHO. . .

Continued from A8

numerous racist comments in meetings denigrating people from countries including China, the Philippines and Malaysia. They said the harassed staffers were sometimes driven to tears.

The e-mail also said Kasai had blamed the rise in Covid cases in some countries on their “lack of capacity due to their inferior culture, race and socioeconomic level.” Three WHO staffers who were part of the agency’s coronavirus response team in Asia told the AP Kasai said repeatedly in meetings that the Covid response was hampered by “a lack of sufficiently educated people in the Pacific.”

Kasai rejected allegations that he had ever used racist language.

“It is true that I have been hard on staff, but I reject the suggestion that I have targeted staff of any particular nationality,” he said. “Racism goes against all of the principles and values I hold dear as a person….I believe deeply and sincerely in WHO’s mission

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to serve all countries and people.”

The claims add to a litany of internal protests from WHO personnel about the agency’s management of the pandemic during the last two years, including privately complaining about China’s delayed sharing of information while publicly praising the government. In their complaint, WHO staff admonished Kasai for “not daring to criticize the Chinese authorities” and failing to disclose what happened during a trip to Beijing to meet President Xi Jinping shortly after the coronavirus was identified in Wuhan.

“We request your urgent intervention to address our serious concerns... which is negatively impacting WHO’s performance to support [countries] in the region and WHO’s ability to function as an effective public health organization, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic,” the staffers wrote.

Kasai is a Japanese doctor who began his career in his country’s public health system before moving to WHO, where he has worked for more than 15 years. He is credited with developing the region’s response to

emerging outbreaks after the SARS epidemic in 2003.

Lawrence Gostin, director of the WHO Collaborating Center on Public Health Law and Human Rights at Georgetown University, said he was in contact with many people at the office in the Western Pacific, and knew they felt battered during the pandemic.

“Dr. K asai came into office w ith a good reputation, as a reasonably strong public health leader w ith his country’s support,” Gostin said.

“But I was not sur prised to hear these allegations.”

Gostin said racism in a WHO office at the center of the pandemic would be “unconscionable,” and that the allegations wounded WHO’s credibility and capacity to do what was needed during the pandemic.

“If you ever needed WHO and its key regional offices to be acting with a single voice, with a single purpose and with great energy, it would be now,” he said. “And the fact that the staff are so demoralized, feel so defeated, so humiliated and morale is so low, it hurts the pandemic response

in the region.”

In the e-mail, staffers accused Kasai of not respecting WHO’s own guidelines in the pandemic through a forced return to the office and to commutes during strict lockdown in Manila. In an internal e-mail to staff from April 1, 2020, he said that three people on the Manila team had Covid but that “we must remain functional….This has meant keeping our country offices and the Regional office open to some level.” Some staffers were concerned that parts of the advice—including car-pooling with other staff and continuing to share desks—could put them at higher risk of catching Covid-19.

WHO staffers also alleged that Kasai abused his position to aid the Japanese government in Covid-19 vaccination planning by providing confidential data. Many countries expect WHO not to share details on sensitive issues like disease rates or vaccination unless they explicitly consent.

A WHO scientist who worked on Covid-19 vaccination in Asia told the AP that Kasai shared data with Japan

so that the government could decide how to donate doses to its regional neighbors for a political advantage.

The staffer, who asked not to be identified for fear of retaliation, said Kasai also pressured WHO personnel to prioritize vaccine donations from Japan over the UN-backed COVAX effort.

In his response to the AP, Kasai disputed that he had ever inappropriately shared information with Japan.

“At no time have I pressured staff to facilitate donations from Japan rather than COVAX,” he said. “The vast majority of Japan’s vaccine donations to other countries in the Western Pacific Region have been through the COVAX [effort.]”

Japan has donated about 2.5 million doses to countries in WHO’s Western Pacific region via COVA X since June, according to data this month from its Ministry of Foreign Affairs. By contrast, Japan has donated more than 11 million doses bilaterally over the same period to countries including Vietnam, Malaysia and the Philippines.

WHO has dealt with internal com-

Friday, January 28, 2022

A9

plaints from staffers alleging systemic racism, sexism and other problems before; its director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus ordered an internal probe in January 2019 to assess such allegations. Last year, the AP reported that senior WHO management was informed of multiple sexual abuse reports involving its own staffers during the Ebola outbreak in Congo, but failed to act.

The authors of the WHO e-mail in the Western Pacific said most of them had “exhaustively” filed complaints through various WHO mechanisms, including its ombudsman, ethics hotline, staff association and office of internal oversight, but have not been informed of any investigation into their allegations.

Under WHO’s governance structure, regional directors are largely answerable only to the member countries that elect them and to the executive board that confirms their selection. Kasai was elected by member countries in the Western Pacific in 2019 and could run again next year. AP

A10 Friday, January 28, 2022 • Editor: Angel R. Calso

Opinion BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

editorial

Let’s take good care of our senior citizens

S

enior citizen refers to any resident citizen of the Philippines that is at least 60 years old. There are currently about 10 million senior citizens in the country. A small percentage of them will become centenarians. That’s because the average life span of Filipinos is 67 years for males and 72 for females. PopCom Executive Director Juan Antonio Perez III said the life span of Filipinos is getting longer because of modern medicine and advanced technology. However, their quality of life is hardly improving.

Perez said that older persons need the government’s help as they will be “the poorest members of the population because usually their pensions are not enough for them.” He said the “social protection systems have yet to catch up with social conditions.”

Since the beginning of civilization, the elderly have played an essential role in society—they represented wisdom, earned through a life filled with experience. In China, respecting elders is considered the highest virtue. In traditional Chinese culture, the young through middle age receive little attention on their birthdays. Families celebrate decade birthdays starting at age 60. With each new decade reached comes an even bigger party and more significant celebratory gifts. In this way, an aging loved one is treated like a treasured gem.

We want to show our senior citizens their worth to society and give them feelings of affirmation during times of uncertainty. On Tuesday, the House of Representatives approved on second reading a bill granting additional benefits to Filipino centenarians, including the grant of P1 million to senior citizens who reach 101 years old. Voting through viva voce, lawmakers passed House Bill 10647, which also seeks to recognize octogenarians and nonagenarians.

The bill is expected to be approved on third and final reading next week. (Read, “Bill for ‘millionaire’ centenarians hurdles 2nd reading in House,” in the BusinessMirror, January 25, 2022).

Deputy Speaker Lito Atienza, one of the principal authors of the bill, said the proposal will give the families of senior citizens the means to continue taking care of their beloved lolos and lolas, as well as to strengthen the traditional family values of caring of elderly. “Where in other cultures, senior citizens are sent off to nursing homes instead of being cared for by their own families, we take care of our senior family members and give them the respect, love and attention they deserve,” Atienza said, adding that Filipino senior citizens are remarkable for their resilience in the face of adversity and their industry as they continue to contribute to their family and community even in their old age.

The bill, which will amend Republic Act 10868 also known as the “Centenarians Act of 2016,” will provide monetary benefits to senior citizens who have reached 80, 85, 90, 95 and 101 years of age. It creates a new subsection in RA 10868 that provides for the grant of cash gifts in the amount of P1 million to those who reach 101 years old, and cash benefits for octogenarians and nonagenarians in the amount of P25,000.

The National Commission of Senior Citizens shall be the lead implementing agency of this proposal. The measure also mandates the NCSC chairman to promulgate the necessary rules and regulations for the effective implementation of this proposal in consultation with the Secretaries of the DSWD, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, the Department of Health, the Executive Director of the Commission on Filipino Overseas, and the Undersecretary of the Philippine Statistics Office.

We commend the bill’s proponents and all members of Congress that will help see this measure signed into law. This is a good way to recognize the rights of senior citizens to take their proper place in society, and make their welfare and improved quality of life a collective concern of the family, community, and government.

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BusinessMirror A broader look at today’s business ✝ Ambassador Antonio L. Cabangon Chua Founder Publisher Editor in Chief Associate Editor News Editor

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N December 2021, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) released a study underscoring how across the Asean the youth were among the hardest hit as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic’s effects on labor markets.

Citing Q2 2020 data, the ADB study showed that young workers accounted for nearly a fourth (23 percent) of all job losses in the Philippines, despite representing only 15 percent of total employment on average. In other words, as the study stated, workers 15 to 24 years old were disproportionately affected in terms of job cuts, often as a consequence of having less experience and being less likely to have permanent contract arrangements.

According to the latest Labor Force Survey data (November 2021), the youth unemployment rate in the country was 13.4 percent. While the rate is the lowest recorded for 2021 so far, this still means that at least one million of our young workers were jobless at the time.

Youth unemployment has long been a problem for the country. This is why when we were acting chairperson of the Senate Committee on Labor, we shepherded legislation

that sought to provide solutions to this issue.

One was RA 10917 or the law expanding the Special Program of the Employment of Students (SPES) enacted in 2016. The SPES is a temporary employment program for poor but deserving students, out-ofschool youth, and dependents of displaced or would-be displaced workers so that they could both reinforce their family’s income and pursue their education later on. The latest available data from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) shows that there have been at least 3.1 million SPES beneficiaries since 1993, most of whom have been hired as service crews or were assigned to clerical and administrative jobs by both private employers and government agencies.

Another was RA 10869 establishing the JobStart Philippines Program under the DOLE. JobStart prepares at-risk youth or those not employed, not in education or training for the

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Tackling youth unemployment amid the pandemic

N

ot long ago, there was a commemorative P5,000 banknote that drew the netizens’ interest, in no small part due to it using an image of chieftain Lapu-Lapu on the bill. This is in sharp contrast to the more recent outrage on social media caused by a controversial decision involving money, namely, to change the symbols depicted on some already existing currency denominations.

It seems the choice of who or what appears on money is worthy of examination!

After all, the usage of any image on official national currency will make said image virtually omnipresent. It will be part of day-to-day transactions via currency circulation in the market. Philippine peso bills are updated with new security features every few years to incorporate latest innovations to prevent counterfeiting. With these changes comes the opportunity to carefully curate meaningful symbols for their new designs.

Some would say that the proposed

change to the P1,000 banknote, which currently features Pinoy martyrs of the Second World War, is an affront to history and national identity. Others find the usage of flora and fauna to be more politically neutral; it is hard to argue that God-given topography and biology— landmarks and creatures objectively existing within the territory of a country—are not representative of the very land we walk on! Which is the better way forward?

In a culturally rich and diverse

real world of work through the provision of life and technical skills training. Since the law’s enactment in 2016, JobStart has enhanced the employability of at least 18,000 youth beneficiaries as of the 3rd quarter of 2021.

SPES and JobStart Philippines are only some of the programs that bridge disadvantaged youth to new opportunities. They are extremely crucial now given the difficulties caused by the Covid-19 pandemic on our youth, many of whom are struggling to get on their own feet. These kinds of programs that tackle their employability should be among our primary efforts to jump-start our economic recovery, and build back better.

In a web article, the University of Edinburgh clarified that employability is not just about “simply getting a job” but about ensuring “ongoing success for now and in the future of students.” Efforts to enhance the employability of our disadvantaged youth are therefore essential as they help steer young lives in the right direction, away from ending up as part of what some now call a lost generation.

A recent study by Marikina City Representative Stella Quimbo and University of Vermont Professor Emily A. Beam even found that underprivileged students with shortterm work experience “increase their employability by 79 percent within 8 to 12 months from graduation.” In other words, simple internships, or short-term training programs such

as the ones offered under SPES and JobStart Philippines can really make a big difference.

An article from the Global Development Commons noted how youth unemployment, as a global problem, can lead to “social exclusion and unrest,” and argued that investments to reduce the same through education and training opportunities for the youth can help create progressive and more stable societies. Indeed, just as the World Economic Forum argues, such an issue will not resolve on its own over time, and if left to fester will have long-term negative effects on the standard of living of our youth.

This is why we echo the calls of various groups, such as the Management Association of the Philippines (MAP), for the next administration to prioritize policies that strengthen economic and employment recovery that include youth employability programs. As Rep. Quimbo and Prof.

Beam have written in their paper, programs that provide temporary work act as “stepping stones” for low-income youth. Hence, it is clear that the State must further devote its resources and seek similar policies and programs for the youth not only to prop up their future, but also the nation’s.

country like the Philippines, it is challenging to choose national symbols reflecting the lived experiences and values of every individual Filipino in the collective. The relationship of each citizen with a particular historical figure, national monument, or even regionally endemic animal, may vary. The selection of national symbols for the sake of a unified monolithic identity may be unintelligible to, and thus regrettably exclude, certain groups of Filipinos.

What alternatives do we have, if we cannot agree on what or who to put on peso bills and coins? One thing making the issue contentious, then, is a lack of inclusivity: if we need representations on the peso to embody places and things of cultural significance, as well as the brave ones who resisted foreign rule by the Spaniards, the Americans, and the Japanese, then different versions of the same bills or coins could coexist, showing more personalities and widening the spectrum.

Imagine the prospect of using different pesos adorned with multiple inclusive symbols, identifiable and relatable even to non-Manilenyos: Pinoys in the far-flung provinces, Filipino Muslims, overseas Filipino

workers and their children, or even indigenous peoples, though those in the last category might, in some cases, find the very concept of money alien, to begin with. Another radical solution may be to have decentralized currencies per region—many kinds of money—effectively allowing each province the ability to produce their own pesos to better represent subsets of the population.

While both the old and new P1,000 bill designs should be circulating this year, it is unlikely that we would see the entire roster of peso bills and coins come in more than one single set of images, and less likely that the government would let different regional currencies coexist in the Philippines. This could be a precedent for a larger selection of symbols and persons to eventually be seen alongside—not necessarily replacing—well-known and traditional ones.

There is one more wild option for including more types of currency, which does away with national identity issues entirely: consider how the Latin American nation of El Salvador adopted Bitcoin as legal tender in 2021. Such decentralized See “Eagle Watch,” A11

Sen. Sonny Angara has been in public service for 17 years. He has authored and sponsored more than 200 laws. He is currently serving his second term in the Senate.

E-mail: sensonnyangara@yahoo.com| Facebook, Twitter & Instagram: @sonnyangara

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The independence of the Comelec

Who remembers the years of the dictator?

Tito Genova Valiente

annotations

Manny F. Dooc

TELLTALES

A

fter the entire opposition slate of the Lakas ng Bayan (Laban) coalition led by then Sen. Ninoy Aquino lost in the 1978 Interim Batasang Pambansa regional elections, the late Speaker Ramon V. Mitra was quoted as saying: “I won’t run anymore in any election until the Comelec has learned how to count!” The disastrous defeat of all the 21 opposition candidates that included Neptali Gonzales, Ramon Mitra, Jr., Tito Guingona, Aquilino Pimentel, Jr., Ernesto Maceda, Charito Planas, Soc Rodrigo and many other household names in politics reflected the bankrupt state of the electoral process in our country during the dark years of martial law. After the Edsa Revolution, we have had relatively peaceful and clean elections and an orderly transition of power from one administration to the next. Unfortunately, it was marred by the so-called “Hello Garci tapes,” which seriously cast doubt on the electoral victory of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo over her leading opponent, the late actor Fernando Poe, Jr. We trust that the 2022 presidential election will be free from any controversy or anomaly to spare our nation from political tension and civil unrest.

It’s exactly 101 days before voters line up at the polls to elect our next president. The election period for the 2022 elections started on January 9, 2022, which ushered in, among others, the imposition of gun ban. So don’t be surprised if you see checkpoints in strategic places manned by the police authorities deputized by the Comelec to enforce its strict compliance. Suspension of elective local officials, transfer or movement of officers and employees in the civil service, organization or maintenance of security forces, use of security personnel or bodyguards by candidates unless duly authorized by the Comelec, and alteration of a precinct or the establishment of a new precinct are likewise prohibited. When undertaken during the election period, these actions are likely to be motivated by politics and resorted to in order to influence the election results. On top of the massive preparations like the printing of ballots, distribution of election forms, paraphernalia and ballot boxes, the poll body is faced with numerous legal and administrative issues, foremost of which are the disqualification cases filed against the leading presidential candidate, Bongbong Marcos, and preparation for staging presidential debates. We trust that our poll body will still have enough time and resources to address and resolve them. And more critically, we expect the Comelec to enforce the laws without fear or favor, immune from any influence or pressure by the party-in-power or any vested interest. No one doubts that conducting elections amid the pandemic is a formidable task. Getting voters to actively participate in the electoral process under the threat of a lethal virus is an uphill effort. While health protocols mandate people to stay at home, election activities like political rallies, caravans, town hall meetings, presidential debates and casting of votes are public events that gather huge crowds. All of them are superspreader events, which deter people from going out of their homes. We don’t have to underscore that the success or failure of the forthcoming elections will depend on the competence, management capability, integrity and independence of the Comelec.

The Comelec is a constitutional body designed to be independent from the executive, legislative and judicial branches of our government to ensure the conduct of free, fair and honest elections. It enjoys broad powers as it performs judicial, regulatory and administrative functions; aside from its primary duty of administering the elections amid the pandemic.

The Comelec is confronted with a very critical challenge at the moment. The chairman, Sheriff Abbas, and two members, Commissioners Rowena Guanzon and Anthony Kho, Jr., are retiring next month, just three months away from the 2022 elections. With their impending retirement, election observers are worried that their successors may be partisan and biased to the party in power. The exit of the remaining two

commissioners who were appointed by former President Noynoy Aquino, Chairman Sheriff Abbas and Commissioner Rowena Guanzon, may spell doom to a clean and honest election. Election watchers like Lente, Kontra Daya and NAMFREL have expressed serious concerns against the loss of independence of the poll body. NAMFREL Secretary General Eric Alvia has issued this alarm when he stated: “The primary concern is competence and integrity of the commissioners, especially now that we approach this very important election. People will look at the independence of the commission as a gauge on how the elections will be conducted.” For its part, another election watchdog, Kontra Daya, emphasized the need of keeping the Comelec free and independent from political influence. It’s convenor, Danilo Arao, has stressed that the appointment of Comelec commissioners should not be confined to people close to the President like his law fraternity brothers, schoolmates and fellow Davaoenos. In a statement made last year, Arao alleged that “Duterte apparently wants a Comelec composed of “yes” people based on past and current choices of commissioners.”

He pointed out that retiring commissioner Antonio Kho, Jr. and the last appointee, Commissioner Rey Bulay, are fraternity brothers and schoolmates of the President, while Commissioners Marlon Casquejo, Socorro Inting and Aimee FerolinoAmpoloquio are all from Davao. I personally know some of the incumbent commissioners—in fact, two of them are my fraternity brothers and schoolmates who had ably served their previous government positions with honor and dedication. All eyes are on the President right now since the credibility of this year’s election hangs in the balance. I hope that the President will exercise great prudence in selecting the new chairman and commissioners. Since all the members of the poll body will all be appointees of the President, the competence and integrity of the Comelec may be compromised if he betrays his oath. Thus, Arao has called on the people to monitor the President’s new appointments and to put pressure on the appointing authority to take the public interest in making these appointments.

John Lewis, the late civil rights leader in the US and a representative of the state of Georgia for many decades, has once said: “The vote is precious. It is the most powerful nonviolent tool we have in a democratic society, and we must use it.”

Many had risked their lives and security so that people could enjoy and exercise their freedom of suffrage. Compared to the US and other advanced countries, our country’s voting rate in presidential elections is higher, but this trend may be reversed if the voters perceive that the Comelec does not know how to count. It will be a lasting credit to the President if the results of this year’s presidential election will reflect the true will of the people.

Friday, January 28, 2022 A11

T

he years under the dictatorship went by unchronicled. Formally. The news archives from 1972 until at least the mid-80s, are of no help either. They reflected a different reality. Not the arts either or the artists who were conscripted by the administration to serve the nation through the instrumentalities of the state.

It was the wisdom of the dictator that he sought the help of technocrats—a new word then presaging men and women whose expertise were in technology and knowledge of systems—rather than politicians —whose only strength is in the manipulation of power. But then we know what happened to these technocrats. But, give and take those intentions, was the era deserving of its avowed carat?

Were the years golden?

Asked during the ’80s, the critique of our own political history could have been more possible. But the years have diminished the recollection, and the remembrances have been dulled by technologies spawning information beyond the control of individual minds. Add to this the fact that an individual’s remembering is not helped by the absence of written notes. The administration was viciously wise: it allowed only the positive things to be written about the period (if there were) and their few sterling achievements were magnified to the point of grandiose lies. Lies but grand anyway.

History is nothing but assisted and recorded memory, thus writes George Santayana. But what history or histories will help us go back to those years?

I hold two books as I write this article: one is Primitivo Mijares’s The Conjugal Dictatorship of Ferdinand and Imelda Marcos and the other is The Marcos Dynasty. The Corruption of Ferdinand and Imelda Marcos by

Sterling Seagrave.

The Mijares book is more popular and accessible, or was made accessible than any other exposé kind of books about the dictatorship.

Seagrave’s investigation is brash and brave and confronts the vulgar and tacky aspects of the dictatorship. But both books are ideal guides about what transpired in those decades, a few years from the declaration of martial rule and another few more years—in 1981—when it was lifted for the sake of a papal visit.

For all our familiarity with the Mijares book, we neglect looking at the form it has assumed through the years. The cover of my copy has a huge hand, its nails looking more like talons, growing from the two heads of Ferdinand and Imelda. The first printing was done on April 27, 1976, barely four years after the declaration of Martial Law. Those were the toughest years—1973-1979— for activism or anyone whose mind was not yet bought by the administration.

Other interesting points about the Mijares book are outside the main contents. On a page facing the Table of Contents, for example, is a Certificate, which contains the following: Know All Men By These Presents:

This is to certify that the person(s) whose name(s) appear(s) herein below bought a copy(ies) of the book, The Conjugal Dictatorship of Ferdinand and Imelda Marcos I,” and caused the sending of ___(ies) of the same book to his friend(s) and/or relative(s) in the Philippines in his patriotic desire to enlighten his countrymen on the truth about the Marcos-Imelda dictatorship and help bring about the restoration of freedom and democracy in the Philippines.”

The book of Seagrave is altogether of different persuasion. It contains details—names, events, quotes— that were whispered only, in glee and fear, during the years of the dictatorship. In the book one reads about encounters of the Woman with other women; the first sex tapes that haunted the regime; the Golden Buddha that overnight turned into brass;

of huge planes transporting clean sand and shells from Australia to grace beauty pageants; the go-signal from the US president for the proclamation of martial rule; and many, many more.

Time Magazine called Seagrave’s book “a merciless account of the Filipino dictator’s rise and fall. According to The Boston Herald, “The Marcos Dynasty tells a story that is so slimy, sleazy and bizarre that it reads as if Seagrave were exposing underworld characters in some powerful crime syndicate. Sadly, of

course, he is.”

More were written about the dictatorship. But there are, surprisingly, official accounts we can consult in these days of so-called historical revisionism. This is the Official Gazette of the Philippine government.

In one of the entries in the Gazette, it says: “First, Marcos ordered a viva voce plebiscite on January 10–15, 1973 in which the voting age was reduced to 15 to ratify the new Constitution. Military men were placed prominently to intimidate voters.

Reports indicated that mayors and governors were given quotas for “yes” votes on the constitution and negative votes were often not recorded.

Results report that 90 percent of the citizens have voted for the constitution even though some communities did not participate in the “citizens [sic] assemblies.” Over the next few years, Marcos would hold four more plebiscites—in 1973, 1975, 1976, and 1978— through citizen assemblies to legitimize the continuation of martial rule.”

Or take its rich data on a particular year: “1978 was a watershed year for the reformist opposition because it was the first election year in the country since 1969. The reformist opposition was divided on the issue of boycotting the Interim Batasang Pambansa [IBP] elections set for April 7.”

Ninoy Aquino decided to run, campaigning from his jail.

He appeared, according to the Gazette, for a 90-minute TV interview.

But one detail should not escape our remembering: “At 8:00 p.m., residents in Metro Manila took to the streets, making whatever noise they could ‘to let Ninoy Aquino in his prison cell know that the people had heard his message.’ They banged on pots and pans, honked their car horns, and shouted their throats sore…”

The change had to wait short of a decade more.

E-mail: titovaliente@yahoo.com

France’s Macron takes own path, seeks dialogue with Russia

By Sylvie Corbet | Associated Press

P

ARIS—There’s still room for diplomacy in the Ukrainian crisis.

At least that’s the conviction of French President Emmanuel Macron, who continues to push for dialogue with Russia despite signs pointing to a potential war.

His stance reflects France’s postWorld War II tradition of carving its own geopolitical path, refusing to line up blindly behind the US. It’s also part of Macron’s domestic political strategy amid campaigning for April’s presidential election, where nationalists are setting the agenda and a war in Ukraine could prove an unwelcome distraction.

Macron is preparing to talk Friday with Vladimir Putin, and Macron’s presidential palace hosted marathon talks Wednesday between Russian and Ukrainian advisers.

Wednesday’s talks among Russian, Ukrainian, French and German advisers appeared to buy all sides more time, as they agreed to meet again in two weeks. But France’s diplomacy-focused strategy complicates efforts by the US and Nato to show a tough, united front against Russia. And experts question whether it will be enough to deter a Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Macron’s call with Putin on Friday morning has two goals, French government spokesman Gabriel Attal said: “To continue dialogue” and to “push Russia to clarify its position and the aim of [military] maneuvering.”

Eagle Watch. . . continued from A10

digital cryptocurrencies provide a borderless alternative to the centralized physical fiat money that states are used to producing. Though met with skepticism by those comfortable with paper and metal money, it is hard to ignore such an emergence.

Moscow has denied it is planning an assault, but it has moved an estimated 100,000 troops near Ukraine in recent weeks and is holding military drills at multiple locations in Russia. That has led the United States and its Nato allies to prepare for the worst.

Macron “is at the heart of efforts towards de-escalation” and will also speak to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the coming days, Attal said.

French expert on geopolitics Dominique Moïsi told The Associated Press that Macron has tried since in power “to reset the relation between France and Russia, and to do it based on a mix of being open and being firm... This is very laudable, but did it work? Will it work this time? That’s the challenge.”

European diplomacy has helped cool tensions in the past. Wednesday’s talks took place in the so-called “Normandy format,” which helped to ease hostilities in 2015, a year after Putin ordered the annexation of Ukraine’s Crimean Peninsula and the Russia-backed insurgency began in eastern Ukraine.

Soon after his election in 2017, Macron invited Putin to a meeting in the sumptuous Palace of Versailles, letting him be “very impressed by the grandeur of France,” according to the Russian’s president’s own words.

Macron also invited Putin to his summer residence at the Fort de Bregancon, on the French Riviera, in a rare honor meant to give a boost to peace talks with Ukraine during

summer 2019.

“Macron has shown extreme confidence in his ability to seduce, to charm world leaders and start with them a dialogue,” Moïsi said.

It hasn’t always worked. His unlikely bond with Donald Trump early in their presidencies quickly soured.

And despite similar world views, relations between Macron and President Joe Biden were deeply damaged by a secret US-Australia-UK submarine deal last year that squeezed France out of the market and undermined the 250-year-old alliance between the US and France.

Macron said it was a “good thing” that the US and Russia have resumed talks in recent weeks, but noted he did not see any concrete results.

The French position has two question marks, Moïsi said: “Will Macron have such power of seduction toward Putin?” and “Can France rally support from a large number of European countries?”

Countries that used to be under Soviet influence are particularly worried about Russia’s intentions in Ukraine and want a tougher line.

Last June, Macron and former German Chancellor Angela Merkel tried to press EU leaders to hold a summit with Putin. The plan was rejected, notably by the Baltic countries and Poland, amid concerns about meeting with the Russian leader at a time when Europe’s relations with Moscow were so poor.

But Macron has made in recent days

a fresh push for such a high-level meeting. He insisted that it wouldn’t disturb ongoing negotiation efforts from the US and Nato.

“Each of these channels must be exploited until the end to get Russia back into a process of de-escalation, to get guarantees, and allow us to build a new [European] security and stability order,” he said this week.

He also pressed last week for a new EU security plan to ease tensions with Russia. Some EU partners expressed concerns that this would make things even more complex, and undermine cooperation with the US. The French presidency stressed that Paris is working in close coordination with Washington and EU partners to be ready for a joint response if there were to be a Russian offensive in Ukraine. In such a case, “there will be retaliation and the cost [for Russia] will be very high,” Macron reaffirmed this week.

France also expressed its willingness to station troops in Romania as part of a Nato force. France’s defense minister is on a visit Thursday to Romania, which has a border with Ukraine, for talks on “deepening” defense ties, including in “armaments cooperation.”

“Nothing that concerns European security can be discussed or decided without the full involvement of Europeans,” French foreign minister JeanYves Le Drian told EU lawmakers this week. “We are at the table. We are not simply on the menu.” Lorne Cook in Brussels, Belgium contributed.

Virtual currencies come with risks, but so do online banking and shopping. Many around the world have already crossed these lines during this age of pandemic lockdowns, where we have come to rely on such digital technologies to, among other things, browse through items, purchase them, and have them delivered home directly. Money that exists only in electronic form, and

which can be traded and invested in like paper currency, seems to be the next logical step for a globalizing world.

Back to the Philippine peso, and away from all the techie talk, the exchange of physical money will still be very much part of our lives for the foreseeable future. What we need is less cryptic currency: money that Pinoys use, understand, and identify

with. Whether we expand our acceptance of symbols for the peso to better represent the great diversity among Filipinos, or otherwise embrace internationally emerging monetary technologies, decrypting and discussing these are much needed!

Mr. Harald Eustachius A. Tomintz teaches at the Department of Economics of the Ateneo de Manila University.

A12 Friday, January 28, 2022

‘WORKERS CAN’T STAND 1 MORE YEAR OF WAGE RATES BEING FROZEN’

A

L A BOR g roup said on Thursday workers can no longer afford another year of stagnant minimum-wage rates.

In a statement, Partido Manggagawa (PM) said the minimumwage earners can barely make ends meet as the prices of basic goods and services keep rising even during the pandemic.

Meanwhile, the majority of the minimum-wage rates remain unchanged from 2020 as the Covid-19 pandemic disrupted the operations of many businesses.

“Many workers can no longer afford to buy many of their needs with their current salaries, which have remained the same for three years,” PM chairperson Renato Magtubo said.

Long wait

PM secretary general Judy Miranda said workers have already waited long enough and should now get “direct wage increases combined with price discounts, social security subsidies and public services provisioning.”

She also reiterated their demand to abolish the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB).

“We should remember that many workers, many of them women, are paid even less than the minimum. In the NCR [National Capital Region], there are

1 million minimum-wage earners but more than 800,000 workers [are] paid below the minimum,” Miranda said, citing data from the October 2020 data of the Philippine Statistics Authority.

“It is worse nationwide: 2.4 million minimum-wage earners but 8 million paid below the minimum,” she added. Magtubo said they are ready to back wage petitions, which will be filed before the regional wage boards this year.

No new petitions

AS of Thursday, the National Wages and Productivity Commission (NWPC) said none of the 16 RTWPBs have yet to receive a new wage petition.

NWPC Executive Director Ma. Criselda R. Sy noted last year at least five petitions for minimumwage increase were filed before the RTWPBs in NCR, regions 2, 7, and 11.

“The Boards, having no jurisdiction over the grant of across-theboard wage increases, dismissed most of the petitions, while those seeking increases in the minimum wage were deferred given that a significant number of business establishments are still enduring the impact of the pandemic and which many have remained closed, and/or not operating at full capacity, particularlytheMSMEs(micro,small,andmedium enterprises),” Sy told BusinessMirror in a SMS. Samuel P. Medenilla

PhilFida alarmed as Bicol’s abaca output hits 11-yr low T

By Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas

@jearcalas

HE Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFida) has sounded the alarm that abaca production in Bicol, the country’s top producer of the natural fiber, could be in a more dismal state in the future as output in the region last year plunged to a 11-year low.

Full-year data released by PhilFida showed that abaca production in the Bicol Region last year declined by 9.6 percent to 19,838.7 metric tons (MT) from 21,946.22 MT in 2020.

Historical PhilFida data showed this is the lowest abaca output by Bicol Region, which remained the top producer of the country, and was the lowest in at least 11 years or since 2011. This is also the first time in the past 11 years that abaca output in the Bicol Region fell below the 20,000-MT mark.

The decline slashed Bicol Region’s share in the country’s total abaca output to just 29 percent from an average share of 37.46 percent in 2011 to 2020.

PhilFida Executive Director Kennedy T. Costales pointed out that the downward trend of abaca production in the Bicol Region is “very alarming.”

“In 2019, said region produced

26,728.1 MT and in 2020, 21,946.22 MT or a contraction of -17.89 percent.

In 2021, it dipped further to only 19,838.7 MT versus 2019 production, or a contraction of -25.78 percent within a span of only just two years,” he said.

“If this downtrend continues, abaca fiber production in the Bicol region will disappear in 6-7 years’ time,” he added.

Costales blamed the downward trend on various reasons that included the malpractice by farmers in Bicol Region of “bacbac” or “umbak” and “pojada” harvesting that leads to the spread of diseases to the industry.

These malpractices involve the harvesting of immature abaca plants, which contain diseases that the harvesters or gatherers are not aware of. The diseases, Costales noted, are transferred to the knives that the gatherers use to harvest and then

spread to other abaca plants, including those free from diseases, that are being harvested or gathered.

“When the gatherer, who normally doesn’t own the abaca plantation and has no knowledge of the virus, slits an infected abaca plant, which contaminated the knife, and thereafter he keeps on slitting other abaca plants in a given area, the whole plantation then gets infected by the virus and in about 6 months’ time the abaca plantation area is wiped out and its neighboring abaca plantation within a kilometer or two also gets infected because of the aphid vectors (Pentalonia Nigronervosa) like a domino effect,” he explained.

“The Pojada practice is the same as Bacbac or Umbak. This time, the trader buys the whole abaca plantation at a given agreed amount. In order to maximize his/her profits, he also harvests the immature or young abaca plants.

The culprits are still the knives used.

When the knives used by the harvesters tumble an infected abaca plant and continue to do so until nothing is left standing but the abaca suckers or followers, the whole abaca plantation will be wiped out in 6 months’ time as the infected suckers will die due to the abaca virus,” he added.

Costales also attributed the declining output in Bicol Region to the lack of proper farm management by some abaca farmers due to the “plant

SBMA cited for best tourism practices during pandemic

By Henry Empeño Correspondent

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UBIC BAY FREEPORT—For its Covid-19 safety protocols that brought about a safe environment for “bubble” events in the Subic Bay Freeport in the past two years, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) placed among the top 12 finalists in the award for “Best in Tourism Practice During the Pandemic.”

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Wilma T. Eisma said the Subic agency received the award during the 22nd National Convention of the Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP).

The SBMA competed for the award along with 32 other government agencies and local government units, she said.

According to organizers, the “Best in Tourism Practice During the Pandemic” award was given in a special category to highlight innovative tourism activities, as main or support operations to the safety of the community, during the times of Covid-19 pandemic.

The special award was given after the tourism industry became the hardest-hit sector during the pandemic, thus necessitating resilient practices among stakeholders to sustain growth.

In the Subic Bay area, Eisma said the SBMA was the first to impose temperature scans at the onset of the pandemic, as well as strict entry protocols during lockdowns and high alert levels. Later on, it initiated a vaccination program for Freeport residents and workers to help keep Covid-19 infections at bay.

“In the course of implementing strict healthy safety practices, Subic became known as a safe haven for various sports events and conferences under the bubble concept,” Eisma pointed out.

“By placing premium on safety, we succeeded in attracting more business and find more opportunities to sustain the local economy,” she added.

SBMA records indicated that despite the ongoing pandemic and the resulting travel restrictions, the Subic Bay Freeport recorded an in-

SBMA Chairman Wilma Eisma holds the trophy recognizing the Subic agency for its best tourism practices during the Covid-19 pandemic.

crease in same-day visitor arrivals by as much as 42 percent since the 2020 lockdown.

Tourist arrivals, meanwhile, increased by 141 percent while hotel occupancy almost doubled in number in 2021 compared to 2020 figures.

“This is only proof that the restrictions and safety standards that we practice like wearing masks, social distancing, disinfecting and most importantly the continuous vaccination of our stakeholders, are all working in ensuring the safety of our visitors,” Eisma said on Wednesday.

“Again, this only shows that our efforts in battling Covid-19 are paying off. Tourists and visitors feel safer to travel in Subic because we have kept our Covid cases low compared to other travel destinations,” she added.

The SBMA chief also credited the government’s crew-change and repatriation programs that made Subic a busy hub for the processing of incoming and outgoing seafarers, as well as overseas workers and other Filipinos arriving from abroad.

She said these programs saved the tourism industry in Subic amid pandemic travel restrictions.

Eisma also thanked ATOP and the Department of Tourism for recognizing the continuing efforts of the SBMA in keeping the Freeport safe not only for tourists and visitors, but for business stakeholders as well.

and forget” attitude. He also noted that lack of funding for continued education and training of farmers is also a factor to the downward trend.

Overall production recovers

IN contrast to Bicol Region’s situation, the overall abaca output of the country recovered last year as it grew by 9.8 percent to 67,488.11 MT from 61,491.66 MT in 2020 driven by higher output in other regions.

PhilFida data showed that abaca output in Davao region last year grew by 13.4 percent to 14,618.29 MT from 12,894.5 MT, while production in Caraga rose by 3.9 percent year-onyear to 9,6459 MT. PhilFida data also showed that abaca production in Northern Mindanao expanded by 72.6 percent to 8,243.28 MT from 4,775.63 MT in 2020. PhilFida data showed that abaca production in Bukidnon province alone doubled to 6,065.42 MT from 2,985.49 MT in just a year.

Costales said the country’s total abaca output last year could have returned to the 70,000 MT level if Typhoon Odette did not damage almost 15,000 hectares of abaca plantation last December. Government estimates showed that losses in the abaca sector due to Odette hit at least P310 million, with the provinces of Leyte, Southern Leyte and Camiguin being affected.

Gadon: Leni camp met with FB executives

‘I

HAVE it confirmed that the camp of a presidential aspirant has met with officials of the social-media platform Facebook Phils. to remove or suspend the FB accounts of BBM supporters with big following,” lawyer Larry Gadon revealed on Thursday.

Gadon disclosed that a Facebook Philippines insider gave him the information that Leni Robredo personally met with Chris Kuzhuppilly, Facebook Philippine public policy manager; Roy Tan, politics and government outreach manager for Asia Pacific; and Kylie Mooney, government, politics, and advocacy partner manager, regarding the avalanche of support of millions of FB users behind Bongbong Marcos.

Sought for comment, a top aide of VP Robredo, requesting anonymity, replied, in an SMS to BusinessMirror: “Wala po katotohanan; walang ganyang pangyayari [There is no truth to that.

Nothing of that sort happened].”

Gadon, who is seeking a Senate seat in the 2022 elections, is, himself, an avid political observer using Facebook tools and analytics with his own FB page, enjoying more than half a million views.

“Ito ang nakakatakot dahil lahat ng mga Facebook account na sumusuporta sa UniTeam ni Bongbong Marcos at Inday Sara ay posibleng ma-suspend o mabaklas nang tuluyan dahil sa pag-uudyok ng kampo ni Leni gamit ang kathang-isip na akusasyon [This is cause for alarm because all FB accounts that support the UniTeam of Bongbong Marcos and Inday Sara could be suspended or taken down completely on the prodding of Leni’s camp, using frabricated accusations],” Gadon warned.

“Because of the huge number of UniTeam supporters on Facebook, the Leni camp wants to erase the FB pages of the supporters of Bongbong and Inday, like what they did with the Twitter accounts of BBM supporters that they supposedly caused to be suspended,” he added, speaking partly in Filipino.

“They did that with Twitter already.

And according to information conveyed to me by a friend inside FB Phils., their next target are the Facebook pages of our supporters,” Gadon said.

Gadon shared a paragraph of the text message sent to him by his informant, who’s reportedly part of the FB Philippines management team.

Continued on A5

Companies BusinessMirror

Editor: Jennifer A. Ng

Friday, January 28, 2022

‘Metaverse to boost growth of semiconductor industry’

T

By Tyrone Jasper C. Piad

@TyronePiad

he local electronics and semiconductor industry should consider venturing into metaverse, a segment that is seen to provide growth opportunities amid the expanding digital economy.

Semiconductor and Electronics Industries in the Philippines Foundation, Inc. (Seipi) Chairman Glenn Everett said at a general membership meeting on Thursday that metaverse is among the emerging technologies that have been rapidly developing given the substantial investments in the industry.

“Tech giants have a vision of this. They envision a virtual world where digital avatars connect using VR [virtual reality] headsets to

conduct, work, travel and entertainment,” he said.

Citing reports, Everett said that the metaverse industry is expected to have a compounded annual growth rate of 44.1 percent. Its market size, meanwhile, is projected to reach $872.35 billion by 2028.

Everret said metaverse is a combination of VR, augmented reality and video, where users live within a digital universe.

This technology is traditionally

used in gaming, but recent developments showed that metaverse is also being incorporated in remote working—the current trend in work arrangements amid the pandemicinduced mobility restrictions.

“We do so much now with Zoom.

It [metaverse] is the next step,” he said.

“Behind it, all cloud computing, interconnections, the devices that support that to happen. It is a remarkable set of opportunities for people in our industry.”

Other emerging technologies cited by Everett include automotive artificial intelligence, advanced driver assistance systems, augmented reality, connected cars, 6G, robotic process automation and financial technology.

What the Philippines needs to do now is attract companies in the said fields to invest locally, the Seipi official said, suggesting the creation of a task force for the said purpose.

“The task force should analyze

the business environment and incentive structure of other Asean nations, because these countries are the Philippines’s competitors for new investment. The task force needs to have the power to create a situation in the Philippines that is better than in the other countries,” he said.

With the task force in place, he said new investments will flow into the country, along with the supply chains.

This, he said, will lead to the acquisition of new technologies and more opportunities for highquality jobs.

This year, the electronics and semiconductor manufacturers are expecting a 10-percent growth on the back of robust demand.

Seipi President Danilo Lachica previously told the BusinessMirror that the industry sees more orders in electronics for medical, communications, automotive and commercial applications this year.

Philex stock rights offer gets nod

By VG Cabuag @villygc

T

he Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has approved the P3.15-billion stock rights offering of Philex Mining Corp., the largest publicly-held copper and gold producer in the Philippines.

In its en banc meeting on Thursday, the SEC approved the said rights offering, which gives current shareholders the right to buy shares based on its current shareholdings.

Philex Mining’s stock rights offer covers up to 842 million common shares. The actual number of common shares to be issued will depend on the final offer price.

Philex Mining will offer the shares to eligible shareholders for a maximum offer price of P4.81 per share. Its shares closed Thursday at P5.63 apiece.

Net proceeds from the offer could amount to P3.059 billion, which will be used for the company’s investment in subsidiary, Silangan Mindanao Mining Co. Inc. (SMMCI) through Silangan Mindanao Exploration Co. Inc. (SMECI) mainly for the capital expenditures and development cost of its Silangan project. These include mine development, construction of the mill plant and support facilities and storage tailings facility.

The stock rights offer will run from February 28 to March 10, in time for the listing of the offer shares on the Philippine Stock Exchange

on March 21, according to the latest timetable submitted by Philex Mining to the SEC. The company has engaged BDO Capital and Investment Corp. as the issue manager and lead underwriter for the offer.

Philex Mining earlier said will infuse fresh capital into Silangan project and jump start the development of a starter mine in its Silangan Project Phase 1 in Surigao del Norte.

“This is a significant indication that Philex, as parent company of SMECI and SMMCI, is committed to get this project going,” Romeo B. Bachoco, the company’s treasurer and CFO, said.

“This would signal to qualified shareholders, and potential investors alike, who will participate in the stock rights offer as well as the lenders who will join the loan syndication that Philex will infuse fresh capital because it strongly believes in the feasibility of the Silangan Project,” he said.

The Silangan Project will involve the development of a starter mine beginning this year and will go on commercial operation by early 2025.

The mine will initially produce 2,000 tons of ore per day or about 700,000 tons a year, and will gradually ramp up to 12,000 tons per year as it invests additional capital for the ramp up of its mining operations.

The Silangan Project has an estimated 81 million tons in mineable reserves that contain around 993 million pounds of copper and 2.8 million ounces of gold. The Silangan mine will produce, throughout its 28-year life, an annual

average of 35 million pounds of copper and 100,000 ounces of gold, higher than the current output of Padcal, one of the largest gold and copper producing mines at present.

Padcal has been in production since 1958 and its mine operation has been extended as the company awaits the Silangan Project, whose development has been delayed due to regulatory policies and funding for a bigger development.

For the starter mine of the Phase 1, Bachoco said it would require about P11.2 billion or about $224 million to develop the first phase alone and start commercial production. The initial plan for a grander development would have required about P38 billion or about $760 million but the outcome of the various discussions with potential foreign investors have forced Philex to prioritize and pursue the development on its own under the in-phase mine plan.

JobStreet: Half of job posts offered higher pay

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he average salary growth by industry last year reached 14 percent, as nearly half of the job posts showed an increase in compensation, according to a report by JobStreet.

According to Salary Report 2022, some 49.7 percent of the local job ads in JobStreet’s portal offered higher salary last year.

This puts the Philippines in the same league with Singapore. The country has also outperformed Malaysia, Thailand and Hong Kong.

Meanwhile, 35.9 percent of the job ads offered lower salary and 14.4 percent was status quo in terms of compensation.

The top industries that saw pay hikes include education, public service, social services, electrical/electronics, computer/information technology (IT), marketing and advertising, telecommunication, healthcare, construction and building and communication service.

“Communication Service, Com-

puter/IT, Education, Public Service, and Telecommunication are also in the countries list of increased salaries by industry comprised of Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Hong Kong,” JobStreet said.

Meanwhile, those with pay cuts came from the following sectors: oil and gas, hospitality, industrial machinery and equipment, communication service, consumer goods, science and technology, banking and finance, property and real estate, retail and trade and insurance.

In terms of salary offering, telecommunication (P20,000), computer/IT (P19,550) and communication service (P19,500) topped the list for entry level jobs.

Computer/IT also has the highest salary for junior executive role at P40,000, followed by consulting at P30,000.

In supervisory positions, computer/IT still led the roster with P75,000.

Next to this is consulting again at P62,500.

Communication service offers the highest salary for managerial roles at P80,500. Computer/IT came next with P80,000.

For C-Level positions, communication service and insurance were on top of the list with salary amounting to P175,000. Following them are hospitality and manufacturing with P172,500.

JobStreet, in the same report, also revealed Hiring Action Plan 2022, which includes, leveraging “key attractors,” including job security, worklife balance, good relationship with superior and colleagues and career development.

“Job security is the most important driver in the Philippines. As salaries become more competitive on the road to recovery, companies should understand candidates more to maintain an edge over competitors,” it said.

The study covered salary data during the first to third quarters of last year using median values for analysis.

Tyrone Jasper C. Piad

B1

SMC unit asks ERC to amend public offer rules for DUs, gencos

By Lenie Lectura @llectura

S

MC Consol id ated Power Corp. (SCPC) is asking the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) to amend the public offering requirements for power generation companies (gencos) and distribution utilities (DUs).

The power arm of San Miguel Corp. (SMC), in its petition filed with the commission, “seeks the amendment of the 2011 and 2019 ERC Resolutions, and proposes to consider that the listing of the ultimate parent company of gencos and DUs, reaching up to the reasonable sixth level of corporate relations, as compliant to the public offering requirement.”

Under the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001, all private gencos and DUs not publicly listed shall offer and sell to the public a portion of not less than 15 percent of their common shares of stocks. If their respective holdings companies are already listed on the Philippine Stock Exchange, they are already deemed complaint.

However, the ERC resolutions limit to only two corporate layers the determination of whether a genco or DU will be considered as deemed in compliance with the public offering requirement.

SCPC, which operates the Limay plant, is seeking renewal of

its certificate of compliance from the ERC. However, it needs to submit proof of compliance with public offering requirements.

SCPC said there is basis to consider SMC as the holdings company of SCPC as it holds SCPC as part of a conglomerate or umbrella structure with other subsidiaries. “ There is a need to amend 2011 and 2019 Resolutions to incorporate the application of the Grandfather Rule and the definition of the Honorable Supreme Court of holding companies in ascertaining compliance with the Public Offering Requirement,” SCPC said.

Consequently, SCPC asked the ERC to suspend the implementation of the 2011 and 2019 Resolutions pending resolution of its petition. “This is so that gencos and DUs similarly situated as petitioner will not be unduly penalized or negatively affected until this matter is properly resolved by the Commission.”

The ERC will hold a public consultation next month.

“Considering the foregoing, SCPC has a substantial interest in the amendment of the 2011 and 2019 Resolutions, as well as the suspension of the implementation of the same pending the resolution of the issue at hand so its COC can be renewed for all intents and purposes,” SCPC said.

B2

Companies BusinessMirror

Friday, January 28, 2022

Mreit to acquire Megaworld properties valued at ₧20B

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By VG Cabuag

@villygc

reit Inc., the real estate investment trust (REIT) of Megaworld Corp., on Thursday said it is set to acquire additional office assets from the Andrew Tan-led property developer worth around P20 billion this year.

With the infusion, Mreit will increase its portfolio value by 34 percent P78.5 billion by the end of 2022 from the current P58.5 billion.

Megaworld did not identify the assets, but said these properties will come from its various developments in the country. “Mreit is looking to surpass its target for 2022 in terms of asset injection. These new assets may include some of our ‘built-to-

suit’ properties, which are considered superior in both quality and lease tenure. These new properties have a multinational tenant base, which include large financial, healthcare, technology, and consulting firms,” said Kevin Andrew L. Tan, president and CEO of Mreit.

“We earlier announced an additional 44,300 square meters by end of the year, but we are working to

further bulk it up with more assets as we continuously look for ways to increase dividend yields for our shareholders,” In December, Mreit completed the acquisition of four commercial properties with a total gross leasable area (GLA) of 55,700 square meters for P9.1 billion. By the end of 2021, Mreit’s expanded portfolio already consisted of 14 prime buildings with a total GLA of around 280,000 square meters located mainly in PEZA-accredited zones in Megaworld’s developments in Eastwood in Libis, Quezon City, McKinley Hill in Taguig and Iloilo Business Park.

“We believe that the current business conditions are conducive to the attainment of our growth plans. We are currently looking at several properties for potential acquisition, not just in these three townships but also in two more new Megaworld townships. We are very optimistic of our very long growth runway considering that Megaworld is building more

offices and even launched new townships last year,” Tan said.

The various properties will be infused throughout the year with funding expected to come primarily from equity and potentially some debt. Currently, Mreit’s percentage of debt versus total deposited properties is around 12 percent, below the 35-percent cap set in the REIT Law. “There are still a number of items that we have to finalize, and as everyone knows, we have to go through the process as set under the REIT Law. But our objective for the year is to deliver on this enhanced investment plan and ensure the sustained growth of the company,” Tan said.

Mreit, which left out many of Megaworld’s properties during its initial public offering last year, wants to be one of the largest REITs in Southeast Asia. It aims to have a portfolio GLA of 500,000 square meters by 2024 and increase this further to 1 million square meters before the end of the decade.

Swat Mobility to expand PHL operations

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mart mobility solutions startup Swat Mobility plans to expand its operations beyond Metro Manila, as its executives painted a rosy outlook for the Philippines in 2022.

In a media conference, Swat Mobility

President Grace Ho said the group plans to “triple the investment” in the Philippines to further grow its workforce and expand its reach in Cebu, Central Luzon, and Calabarzon.

“We will spend more than a quarter

a million Singaporean dollars in total to build the Philippine business. We have a very aggressive expansion agenda,” she said. Based in Singapore, Swat Mobility provides clients with demand-responsive, ridesharing services in high-capaci-

ty vehicles. It launched in the Philippines in 2020 and has been capitalizing on the demand for shuttle services from various sectors, but is mainly driven by the demand from the manufacturing and outsourcing industries. Lorenz S. Marasigan

mutual funds

January 27, 2022

NAV

One Year Three Year

Five Year

per share Return*

Y-T-D Return

Stock Funds ALFM Growth Fund, Inc. -a

231.01

3.92%

-4.92%

-1.99%

-0.89%

ATRAM Alpha Opportunity Fund, Inc. -a

1.6089

28.22%

2.75%

2.82%

-3.32%

4.3%

-8.46%

-4.77%

ATRAM Philippine Equity Opportunity Fund, Inc. -a 3.1933

-1.37%

Climbs Share Capital Equity Investment Fund Corp. -a 0.7557 -2.89%

-7.6% n.a.

-0.11%

First Metro Consumer Fund on MSCI Phils. IMI, Inc. -a 0.7592 6.21%

-4.84% n.a.

-1.52%

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

-2.65%

-0.13%

-0.57%

5.44%

5.1534

6.52%

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

0.7755

-4.68%

-3.6%

MBG Equity Investment Fund, Inc. -a

92.49

-7.44%

-8.99% n.a.

-2.05%

PAMI Equity Index Fund, Inc. -a

47.5496

3.96%

-3.57%

-0.4%

-1.2%

Philam Strategic Growth Fund, Inc. -a

496.17

3.71%

-3.37%

-0.9%

-0.9%

Philequity Dividend Yield Fund, Inc. -a

1.3874

20.92%

1.39%

2.47%

2.29%

Philequity Fund, Inc. -a

36.3518

6.91%

-2.44%

0.66%

-0.66%

Philequity MSCI Philippine Index Fund, Inc. -a

0.9357

4.72%

-3.92% n.a.

-0.61%

Philequity PSE Index Fund Inc. -a

4.9028

4.8%

-2.89%

0.21%

-1.17%

Philippine Stock Index Fund Corp. -a

818.94

4.6%

-2.89%

0.18%

-1.15%

Soldivo Strategic Growth Fund, Inc. -a

0.7391

5.41%

-6.82%

-2.95%

-1.79%

Sun Life Prosperity Philippine Equity Fund, Inc. -a 3.7285

4.98%

-4.89%

-1.27%

-1.24%

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

0.9331

4.14%

-3.23%

-0.04%

United Fund, Inc. -a

4.38%

-3%

0.54%

-1.39%

3.3895

-1%

-1.21%

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

1.1616

Philippine Stock Index Fund Corp. -a

9.09% n.a. n.a.

-0.09%

1008.15 n.a. n.a. n.a. n.a.

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

110.2208

4.9%

-2.68%

0.66%

-1.13%

Primarily invested in foreign currency securities (shares) ATRAM AsiaPlus Equity Fund, Inc. -b

$1.1056

Sun Life Prosperity World Voyager Fund, Inc. -a $1.6791

-17.41%

4.83%

4.42%

-1.86%

-3.39%

12.5%

9.44%

-9.06%

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

1.6654

0.57%

-1.38%

-0.78%

ATRAM Philippine Balanced Fund, Inc. -a

2.2782

0.93%

-0.44%

-0.15%

-0.14%

First Metro Save and Learn Balanced Fund Inc. -a 2.684

3.55%

0.36%

1.25%

-0.26%

First Metro Save and Learn F.O.C.C.U.S. Dynamic Fund, Inc. -a 0.2121

-1.57%

8.38% n.a. n.a.

NCM Mutual Fund of the Phils., Inc. -a

2.002

2.52%

1.47%

1.71%

-0.73%

PAMI Horizon Fund, Inc. -a

3.7456

-0.06%

0.99%

0.55%

-0.52%

Philam Fund, Inc. -a

16.7594

0.01%

0.56%

0.51%

-0.51%

Solidaritas Fund, Inc. -a

2.1092

2.05%

-0.82%

0.37%

-0.58%

Sun Life of Canada Prosperity Balanced Fund, Inc. -a 3.6153 2.33%

-1.91%

-0.14%

-0.87%

Sun Life Prosperity Dynamic Fund, Inc. -a

-0.53%

0.39%

0.02%

0.9544

8.94%

1.48%

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

0.9777

-3.66% n.a. n.a.

Sun Life Prosperity Achiever Fund 2038, Inc. -a

0.9369

0.54% n.a. n.a.

-0.8%

Sun Life Prosperity Achiever Fund 2048, Inc. -a

0.9252

1.21% n.a. n.a.

-0.93%

-1.22%

Primarily invested in foreign currency securities (shares) Cocolife Dollar Fund Builder, Inc. -a $0.03699 PAMI Asia Balanced Fund, Inc. -b

$1.0568

-5.49%

1.4%

0.99%

-2.5%

-14.47%

3.6%

3.01%

-0.97%

Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Advantage Fund, Inc. -a $4.502

-3.15%

Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Wellspring Fund, Inc. -a,2 $1.1518 -3.88%

9.05%

7.11%

-6.25%

4.76%

3.62%

-3.9%

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

374.51

0.82%

ATRAM Corporate Bond Fund, Inc. -a

1.8865

-0.91%

0.31%

0.02%

0.1%

Cocolife Fixed Income Fund, Inc. -a

3.2467

0.91%

2.88%

3.84%

0.08%

2.25

-2.15%

1.66%

1.43%

-0.07%

First Metro Save and Learn Fixed Income Fund,Inc. -a 2.4268 -1.08%

2.97%

1.85%

0.03%

Philam Bond Fund, Inc. -a

4.24%

1.4%

-0.02% 0.24%

Ekklesia Mutual Fund Inc. -a

4.3946

2.82%

-5.55%

2.52%

0.06%

Philam Managed Income Fund, Inc. -a

1.3222

-0.05%

3.8%

2.88%

Philequity Peso Bond Fund, Inc. -a

3.9796

-0.42%

3.75%

2.66%

0.35%

Soldivo Bond Fund, Inc. -a

1.0288

-1.22%

4.21%

1.96%

0.06%

Sun Life of Canada Prosperity Bond Fund, Inc. -a 3.1871

-0.73%

4.25%

3.2%

-0.01%

Sun Life Prosperity GS Fund, Inc. -a

-1.35%

3.42%

2.57%

-0.02%

1.7303

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

$488.74

0.78%

2.81%

2.46%

-0.17%

ALFM Euro Bond Fund, Inc. -a

Є219.3

-0.01%

0.92%

1.03%

-0.32%

$1.1874

-7.42%

ATRAM Total Return Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -b

1.49%

1.45%

-1.37%

First Metro Save and Learn Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -a $0.0257 -3.02%

1.06%

0.8%

-1.15%

PAMI Global Bond Fund, Inc -b

$0.9991

-8.45%

-1.31%

-1.05%

-2.32%

Philam Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -a

$2.4466

-3.44%

3.66%

2.41%

-2.36%

$0.0620627

-0.58%

2.79%

1.88%

-0.37%

Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Abundance Fund, Inc. -a $3.0984 -3.96%

2.27%

1.23%

-3.06%

Philequity Dollar Income Fund Inc. -a

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

131.3

1.03%

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

1.0588

0.95% n.a. n.a.

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

1.47%

2.52%

1.3171

2.66%

2.54% 2.53%

0.08% 0.1%

0.11%

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

0.73%

1.41% n.a.

0.04%

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

46.85 n.a. n.a. n.a. n.a.

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

1.298

11.56% n.a. n.a.

-6.14%

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

$0.95

-4.04% n.a. n.a.

a - NAVPS as of the previous banking day. b - NAVPS as of two banking days ago.

c - Listed in the PSE.

-2.06%

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

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

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

"While we endeavor to keep the information accurate, the Philippine Investment Funds Association (PIFA) and its members make no warranties as to the correctness of the newspaper’s publication and assume no liability or responsibility for any error or omissions. You may visit http://www. pifa.com.ph to see the latest NAVPS/NAVPU."

www.businessmirror.com.ph

PSE STOCK QUOTATIONS

January 27, 2022

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

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

30,900 198,573,036 119,037,012 4,083,250 1,734,136 206,363,586 9,000 1,041,475 30,624 245,970 372,243,486 5,080,842.50 384,560 20,460 9,270 55,420 1,680 18,850 43,990

-810,558 -39,623,133.50 -883,735 104,371,198 -69,030 40,600 -15,139,876 -404,010 -

INDUSTRIAL AC ENERGY 9.5 9.52 9.55 9.56 9.48 9.5 22,460,000 213,644,837 ALSONS CONS 1.03 1.05 1.05 1.09 1.03 1.05 542,000 577,560 ABOITIZ POWER 32.45 32.6 32.75 32.75 32.3 32.6 616,700 20,044,965 0.51 0.52 0.54 0.54 0.51 0.52 20,079,000 10,494,970 BASIC ENERGY 27.8 28 27.2 28.35 27.1 28 672,500 18,794,950 FIRST GEN FIRST PHIL HLDG 70.2 70.5 70.35 70.35 70.15 70.2 112,160 7,873,839.50 MERALCO 327 327.2 324 327 321 327 306,850 99,888,040 24.4 24.5 24.5 24.55 24.25 24.5 1,519,000 37,172,485 MANILA WATER 3.24 3.26 3.27 3.27 3.24 3.24 898,000 2,921,180 PETRON 4.05 4.31 4.14 4.33 4.14 4.32 37,000 157,000 PETROENERGY PHX PETROLEUM 10.6 10.8 10.54 10.8 10.54 10.8 4,400 47,086 SYNERGY GRID 12.8 12.84 12.82 12.9 12.76 12.82 2,812,400 36,014,160 18.88 18.9 18.96 19 18.9 18.9 334,900 6,349,210 PILIPINAS SHELL 14.1 14.26 14.28 14.32 14 14.26 301,000 4,224,466 SPC POWER SOLAR PH 2.12 2.13 2.08 2.16 2.04 2.13 175,997,000 369,498,170 AGRINURTURE 4.68 4.8 4.7 4.88 4.7 4.8 107,000 515,780 AXELUM 2.88 2.89 2.85 2.88 2.83 2.88 111,000 318,050 27.5 27.6 28 28 27 27.5 1,658,000 45,366,670 CENTURY FOOD 15.36 15.5 15.7 15.7 15.3 15.36 51,400 794,084 DEL MONTE DNL INDUS 8.34 8.38 8.5 8.5 8.3 8.38 2,481,100 20,743,265 EMPERADOR 20.85 20.9 20.35 21.2 20 20.9 7,106,100 147,050,295 69.45 69.5 69.9 69.9 69.05 69.5 36,840 2,551,099.50 SMC FOODANDBEV 0.86 0.87 0.94 1.02 0.86 0.86 535,654,000 510,072,560 FIGARO COFFEE ALLIANCE SELECT 0.6 0.62 0.62 0.62 0.62 0.62 2,000 1,240 FRUITAS HLDG 1.23 1.27 1.26 1.27 1.23 1.27 9,363,000 11,697,350 GINEBRA 116 117 118 119 115.5 117 26,070 3,078,950 231.6 232 231.6 232 228.2 232 169,430 39,249,006 JOLLIBEE 1.38 1.39 1.39 1.4 1.38 1.38 3,344,000 4,638,640 KEEPERS HLDG LIBERTY FLOUR 26.25 27.95 26.25 26.25 26.25 26.25 100 2,625 MACAY HLDG 5.56 6.62 5.51 5.51 5.51 5.51 100 551 6.43 6.44 6.45 6.5 6.43 6.43 73,400 472,668 MAXS GROUP MG HLDG 0.14 0.147 0.14 0.149 0.138 0.149 370,000 51,890 16.66 16.68 16.8 16.9 16.66 16.68 8,313,300 139,253,562 MONDE NISSIN SHAKEYS PIZZA 9.4 9.41 9.43 9.45 9.41 9.41 228,500 2,150,583 ROXAS AND CO 0.65 0.66 0.65 0.67 0.64 0.65 2,225,000 1,427,640 4.5 4.55 4.55 4.55 4.5 4.5 28,000 126,100 RFM CORP ROXAS HLDG 1.04 1.09 1.03 1.03 1.03 1.03 3,000 3,090 SWIFT FOODS 0.102 0.104 0.102 0.102 0.102 0.102 160,000 16,320 UNIV ROBINA 125.9 126 126 126.6 125.8 126 1,514,450 190,956,716 0.69 0.7 0.69 0.71 0.69 0.7 465,000 325,940 VITARICH CONCRETE A 44.65 47.85 44.6 44.6 44.6 44.6 3,000 133,800 CEMEX HLDG 1.06 1.08 1.06 1.07 1.05 1.06 837,000 887,260 EAGLE CEMENT 14.4 14.5 14.36 14.4 14.34 14.4 91,800 1,318,114 EEI CORP 6.21 6.25 6.2 6.25 6.16 6.21 85,700 530,478 5.87 5.9 5.86 5.9 5.86 5.86 94,300 554,558 HOLCIM 4.97 4.98 5.01 5.03 4.96 4.97 639,800 3,195,434 MEGAWIDE PHINMA 20.7 21 20.95 21 20.7 21 13,500 282,455 TKC METALS 0.78 0.8 0.78 0.78 0.78 0.78 22,000 17,160 VULCAN INDL 0.85 0.86 0.9 0.9 0.86 0.86 957,000 827,870 1.7 1.71 1.71 1.71 1.7 1.7 8,000 13,620 CROWN ASIA 1.4 1.47 1.49 1.49 1.49 1.49 11,000 16,390 EUROMED LMG CORP 3.78 3.99 3.89 4 3.89 4 5,000 19,740 MABUHAY VINYL 4.25 4.34 4.25 4.34 4.25 4.34 3,000 12,930 5.75 5.8 5.7 5.75 5.7 5.75 52,900 304,169 PRYCE CORP CONCEPCION 21 21.45 21 21 21 21 100 2,100 1.88 1.89 2.03 2.06 1.87 1.89 3,644,000 6,978,730 GREENERGY INTEGRATED MICR 10.12 10.16 9.91 10.2 9.71 10.12 2,272,700 22,419,628 IONICS 0.7 0.71 0.7 0.71 0.7 0.71 131,000 92,750 6.02 6.09 6.1 6.1 6.09 6.1 6,000 36,570 PANASONIC SFA SEMICON 1.07 1.11 1.1 1.11 1.1 1.11 84,000 92,680 CIRTEK HLDG 3.92 3.93 3.8 3.92 3.75 3.92 2,889,000 11,158,500

59,520,603 4,830 -943,490 -265,000 304,415 347,798 14,955,260 20,012,935 -487,860 2,401,628 1,932,788 18,145,540 -143,680 -54,750 -11,454,780 4,943,806 25,697,030 599,730 11,378,180 2,500 -126,279 12,537,058 831,650 -4,470 3,211,980 -1,649,841 -79,010 -125,170,740 285,086 -76,060 87,456 1,710 2,100 44,680 4,581,851 839,370

HOLDING & FRIMS

ABACORE CAPITAL ASIABEST GROUP AYALA CORP ABOITIZ EQUITY ALLIANCE GLOBAL ANSCOR ANGLO PHIL HLDG ATN HLDG A ATN HLDG B COSCO CAPITAL DMCI HLDG FILINVEST DEV GT CAPITAL JG SUMMIT LODESTAR LOPEZ HLDG LT GROUP METRO PAC INV PACIFICA HLDG SM INVESTMENTS SAN MIGUEL CORP TOP FRONTIER ZEUS HLDG

44.2 126.5 94.5 25.5 9.35 57.85 17.68 20.3 57.7 20.35 105 95.65 1.8 4.08 2.92 6.52 0.82 0.31 208.4

0.91 5.35 851 62.05 12.76 7.99 0.88 0.68 0.68 5.1 8.19 7.12 556 61.4 0.62 3.1 10.02 3.79 2.84 950 112 123.5 0.175

44.9 127 95 25.6 9.38 58 18.88 20.35 57.75 20.5 105.1 96 1.84 4.09 3.09 7.68 0.84 0.335 210

0.92 5.9 852 63 12.78 8 0.91 0.69 0.69 5.11 8.21 7.38 558 61.45 0.63 3.28 10.04 3.81 3.12 951 112.5 125.9 0.179

44.1 124.6 94.95 25.6 9.34 56 18 20.3 57.9 20.3 105 95.6 1.78 4.1 3.09 6.52 0.84 0.31 210

0.9 5.35 865 62.5 12.68 7.99 0.88 0.6 0.59 5.1 8.3 7.11 552 61.8 0.62 3.25 10.06 3.79 2.85 950 112 123.5 0.175

44.2 127 95.1 25.6 9.51 58.3 18 20.35 57.9 20.5 107.3 98.7 1.84 4.1 3.09 6.52 0.84 0.335 210

0.93 5.35 866 63.35 12.76 7.99 0.88 0.72 0.72 5.1 8.3 7.4 559.5 61.85 0.64 3.28 10.12 3.83 3.12 955.5 112.5 125.9 0.175

44.1 124.5 94.05 25.5 9.32 56 18 20.3 57 20.3 104.9 95.2 1.78 4.09 3.09 6.52 0.84 0.31 209

0.9 5.35 845 62 12.54 7.99 0.88 0.6 0.59 5.09 8.16 7.11 547 60.25 0.62 3.1 10 3.79 2.85 942 111.9 123.5 0.175

44.2 127 95 25.6 9.38 58 18 20.3 57.75 20.5 105.1 96 1.84 4.09 3.09 6.52 0.84 0.335 209

0.92 5.35 852 63 12.76 7.99 0.88 0.68 0.69 5.1 8.2 7.12 558 61.4 0.63 3.1 10.04 3.79 3.12 951 112.5 125.9 0.175

700 1,572,170 1,253,510 159,700 184,900 3,574,460 500 51,300 530 12,100 3,538,270 52,500 211,000 5,000 3,000 8,500 2,000 60,000 210

2,759,000 300 193,900 675,110 1,551,800 100 510,000 38,542,000 2,587,000 57,000 3,266,600 16,800 280,320 1,476,130 466,000 177,000 1,056,200 12,901,000 9,000 137,050 9,180 980 80,000

2,505,690 1,605 165,018,080 42,436,145 19,712,728 799 448,800 25,896,390 1,752,880 290,678 26,831,372 122,164 156,340,975 90,324,676 289,210 554,930 10,601,862 49,023,140 25,920 130,277,230 1,030,496 121,750 14,000

PROPERTY ARTHALAND CORP 0.61 0.62 0.61 0.62 0.61 0.62 23,000 14,060 AYALA LAND 34.65 34.7 34.2 34.65 34.1 34.65 2,863,400 98,700,410 AYALA LAND LOG 5.82 5.83 5.93 5.93 5.83 5.83 3,644,500 21,344,920 51.45 51.5 51.5 51.8 51.45 51.5 351,140 18,097,224.50 AREIT RT 0.76 0.77 0.76 0.78 0.75 0.77 460,000 346,540 A BROWN CITYLAND DEVT 0.73 0.74 0.73 0.73 0.73 0.73 209,000 152,570 CROWN EQUITIES 0.101 0.104 0.104 0.105 0.098 0.104 11,080,000 1,086,210 2.9 2.91 2.89 2.91 2.88 2.91 631,000 1,825,890 CEB LANDMASTERS 0.4 0.405 0.4 0.405 0.4 0.405 3,460,000 1,388,450 CENTURY PROP 7.03 7.05 7.15 7.15 7.02 7.03 264,900 1,871,493 DOUBLEDRAGON DDMP RT 1.78 1.79 1.81 1.81 1.78 1.79 6,374,000 11,417,290 DM WENCESLAO 6.77 6.78 6.77 6.78 6.77 6.78 30,600 207,417 0.25 0.26 0.25 0.26 0.25 0.26 320,000 80,500 EMPIRE EAST 0.32 0.33 0.32 0.33 0.32 0.33 4,990,000 1,624,150 EVER GOTESCO FILINVEST RT 7.58 7.59 7.6 7.74 7.59 7.59 1,850,100 14,151,315 FILINVEST LAND 1.07 1.08 1.1 1.1 1.08 1.08 8,452,000 9,129,330 GLOBAL ESTATE 0.94 0.96 0.94 0.94 0.94 0.94 137,000 128,780 11.18 11.4 11.2 11.54 11.16 11.4 340,700 3,862,418 8990 HLDG 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.08 1.06 1.07 1,222,000 1,304,070 PHIL INFRADEV CITY AND LAND 0.85 0.89 0.86 0.91 0.85 0.89 324,000 277,480 MEGAWORLD 3.11 3.13 3.16 3.16 3.11 3.11 6,925,000 21,620,950 0.245 0.248 0.236 0.255 0.234 0.248 11,310,000 2,785,540 MRC ALLIED 22.1 22.15 22.2 22.45 22.15 22.15 3,751,300 83,663,640 MREIT RT OMICO CORP 0.345 0.35 0.35 0.35 0.34 0.35 210,000 71,600 PHIL ESTATES 0.48 0.485 0.49 0.49 0.485 0.485 1,170,000 570,000 PRIMEX CORP 2.09 2.1 2.13 2.13 2.04 2.09 1,117,000 2,308,000 8.53 8.54 8.52 8.65 8.52 8.53 1,712,200 14,651,899 RL COMM RT 18.18 18.2 18.8 18.8 18.12 18.2 1,348,800 24,671,392 ROBINSONS LAND PHIL REALTY 0.19 0.197 0.2 0.2 0.19 0.19 1,290,000 245,730 ROCKWELL 1.47 1.5 1.47 1.5 1.47 1.5 9,000 13,260 2.61 2.62 2.62 2.62 2.62 2.62 4,000 10,480 SHANG PROP STA LUCIA LAND 2.67 2.88 2.85 2.9 2.8 2.9 219,000 626,100 34.8 35 35 35.1 34.55 35 3,372,800 117,807,725 SM PRIME HLDG VISTAMALLS 3.98 3.99 4.3 4.5 3.86 3.98 701,000 2,879,300 SUNTRUST HOME 1.08 1.1 1.09 1.1 1.08 1.1 162,000 175,230 3.45 3.48 3.52 3.52 3.44 3.45 214,000 742,010 VISTA LAND

SERVICES ABS CBN 12.08 12.1 12.46 12.46 12 12.08 829,700 10,064,860 GMA NETWORK 14.64 14.72 14.76 14.86 14.5 14.7 509,500 7,491,344 MANILA BULLETIN 0.42 0.44 0.44 0.44 0.44 0.44 30,000 13,200 9.12 9.98 10.4 10.4 9.98 9.98 1,500 15,012 MLA BRDCASTING GLOBE TELECOM 3,260 3,262 3,222 3,268 3,210 3,260 49,905 162,144,420 PLDT 1,837 1,848 1,840 1,849 1,825 1,848 131,860 241,987,295 APOLLO GLOBAL 0.072 0.073 0.075 0.075 0.071 0.072 272,860,000 19,852,110 31.2 31.45 31.5 31.5 31.05 31.45 2,382,600 74,728,620 CONVERGE 2.3 2.43 2.26 2.47 2.26 2.43 401,000 933,220 DFNN INC 5.12 5.14 5.2 5.21 5.12 5.14 4,590,000 23,650,905 DITO CME HLDG JACKSTONES 1.65 1.73 1.65 1.7 1.65 1.7 4,000 6,700 NOW CORP 1.28 1.3 1.32 1.32 1.28 1.3 939,000 1,212,740 0.365 0.37 0.34 0.38 0.34 0.365 23,650,000 8,622,150 TRANSPACIFIC BR 7.41 7.5 7.5 7.5 7.5 7.5 3,000 22,500 2GO GROUP ASIAN TERMINALS 13.8 14 13.8 13.8 13.8 13.8 200 2,760 CHELSEA 1.65 1.66 1.66 1.66 1.65 1.65 315,000 520,060 CEBU AIR 42.9 42.95 43 43 42.6 42.95 59,400 2,548,475 203 204.6 202 206.4 202 204.6 999,720 204,997,806 INTL CONTAINER 23.55 24.7 23.5 23.55 23.5 23.55 10,400 244,915 LBC EXPRESS MACROASIA 5.05 5.06 5.1 5.1 5.02 5.05 901,000 4,573,642 METROALLIANCE A 1.01 1.05 1.06 1.06 1.02 1.02 71,000 72,460 0.83 0.85 0.82 0.84 0.82 0.83 25,000 20,760 HARBOR STAR ACESITE HOTEL 1.5 1.58 1.58 1.58 1.58 1.58 8,000 12,640 DISCOVERY WORLD 1.73 1.79 1.73 1.73 1.73 1.73 10,000 17,300 WATERFRONT 0.465 0.485 0.47 0.47 0.465 0.465 650,000 302,350 FAR EASTERN U 535 550 535 535 535 535 40 21,400 0.325 0.33 0.335 0.335 0.325 0.325 400,000 131,250 STI HLDG 1.32 1.34 1.33 1.33 1.32 1.33 135,000 179,450 BELLE CORP BLOOMBERRY 6.09 6.13 6.18 6.18 6.07 6.13 3,213,400 19,646,300 PACIFIC ONLINE 1.77 1.78 1.78 1.78 1.78 1.78 16,000 28,480 1.37 1.38 1.37 1.37 1.36 1.37 109,000 149,030 LEISURE AND RES 1.15 1.25 1.41 1.41 1.36 1.36 2,000 2,770 MJC INVESTMENTS PH RESORTS GRP 0.77 0.79 0.82 0.83 0.79 0.79 949,000 757,800 PREMIUM LEISURE 0.445 0.45 0.45 0.45 0.44 0.445 3,720,000 1,659,500 PHILWEB 1.98 2 2.03 2.04 1.95 1.99 150,000 299,420 0.6 0.61 0.6 0.61 0.59 0.6 26,979,000 16,162,230 ALLDAY 8.55 8.61 8.53 8.61 8.53 8.61 1,707,500 14,692,529 ALLHOME METRO RETAIL 1.37 1.39 1.37 1.39 1.37 1.39 428,000 586,530 PUREGOLD 36.65 37 36.65 37.35 36.65 36.65 605,200 22,274,045 58.95 59 58.9 59.45 58.8 59 1,209,440 71,341,819.50 ROBINSONS RTL 87.1 88 88 88 88 88 40 3,520 PHIL SEVEN CORP 1.08 1.1 1.07 1.1 1.06 1.1 1,563,000 1,694,410 SSI GROUP WILCON DEPOT 29.25 29.3 28.4 29.35 28.4 29.3 2,811,300 81,698,015 APC GROUP 0.229 0.237 0.229 0.229 0.229 0.229 100,000 22,900 6.9 7 7 7 7 7 1,200 8,400 IPM HLDG MEDILINES 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.1 1.05 1.06 6,913,000 7,411,380 PRMIERE HORIZON 0.57 0.58 0.54 0.6 0.53 0.57 19,400,000 11,186,430

MINING & OIL ATOK 5.94 6.12 5.95 6.13 5.93 6.12 21,300 127,813 APEX MINING 1.76 1.77 1.82 1.84 1.77 1.77 10,134,000 18,165,180 6.02 6.03 6.07 6.09 6 6.02 938,100 5,661,225 ATLAS MINING 5.09 5.13 5.11 5.11 5.09 5.09 1,800 9,164 BENGUET A CENTURY PEAK 2.6 2.7 2.6 2.7 2.6 2.7 215,000 572,100 DIZON MINES 5.04 5.49 5.49 5.49 5.49 5.49 100 549 2.15 2.16 2.24 2.24 2.14 2.15 6,478,000 14,065,490 FERRONICKEL 0.188 0.189 0.192 0.192 0.19 0.19 1,230,000 233,860 GEOGRACE 0.137 0.139 0.138 0.139 0.136 0.139 3,610,000 498,090 LEPANTO A LEPANTO B 0.136 0.142 0.136 0.136 0.136 0.136 1,020,000 138,720 MANILA MINING A 0.0094 0.0097 0.0098 0.0098 0.0094 0.0097 26,000,000 248,800 1.43 1.44 1.52 1.52 1.4 1.43 1,985,000 2,860,110 MARCVENTURES 0.95 0.98 0.98 0.98 0.95 0.95 240,000 230,160 NIHAO NICKEL ASIA 5.76 5.77 5.9 6 5.74 5.77 6,264,000 36,368,228 ORNTL PENINSULA 0.82 0.84 0.83 0.84 0.81 0.84 529,000 440,230 PX MINING 5.62 5.63 5.78 5.78 5.63 5.63 1,763,300 10,003,593 23.95 24 24.55 24.65 23.9 24 1,421,700 34,488,625 SEMIRARA MINING 0.0069 0.0072 0.0073 0.0073 0.007 0.007 12,000,000 84,300 UNITED PARAGON ACE ENEXOR 31 31.25 32.1 32.5 30.5 31.25 1,020,200 31,932,330 ORNTL PETROL A 0.011 0.012 0.012 0.013 0.012 0.012 120,400,000 1,456,300 0.012 0.013 0.012 0.013 0.012 0.012 15,300,000 188,300 ORNTL PETROL B 0.0091 0.0094 0.0092 0.0093 0.0091 0.0091 29,000,000 266,900 PHILODRILL PXP ENERGY 6 6.01 6 6.02 6 6.01 82,200 493,353

PREFFERED HOUSE PREF A 101 101.3 101 101 101 101 190 19,190 ALCO PREF D 512 524 512 512 512 512 400 204,800 BRN PREF A 103.5 104 103.5 103.5 103.5 103.5 750 77,625 41.6 41.65 41.9 41.9 41.6 41.65 239,600 9,978,765 CEB PREF 101 103 100 103 100 102.5 29,580 2,969,475 CPG PREF A DD PREF 100.6 100.8 100.8 100.8 100.8 100.8 130 13,104 EEI PREF A 104 105.1 104 104 104 104 10,000 1,040,000 1,000 1,004 1,005 1,005 1,005 1,005 20 20,100 JFC PREF A JFC PREF B 1,003 1,006 1,003 1,003 1,001 1,002 250 250,340 100 100.5 99.6 100 99.4 100 11,330 1,132,294 MWIDE PREF 4 PNX PREF 3B 102 103.3 102.5 102.5 102.5 102.5 49,010 5,023,525 PNX PREF 4 999 1,000 1,000 1,000 999 1,000 1,635 1,634,980 1,047 1,060 1,047 1,047 1,047 1,047 2,115 2,214,405 PCOR PREF 3A SMC PREF 2F 79.3 79.7 79.3 79.7 79.3 79.7 590 46,964 SMC PREF 2H 75.9 76.6 75.9 75.9 75.9 75.9 400 30,360 SMC PREF 2I 79.35 79.6 79.4 79.4 79.3 79.3 18,640 1,479,152 SMC PREF 2K 76 76.4 76 76 75.9 76 31,030 2,355,832 53 53.5 53.1 53.1 53 53 43,000 2,279,050 TECH PREF B2D

PHIL. DEPOSITARY RECEIPTS ABS HLDG PDR 12 12.12 12.78 12.78 12.12 12.12 71,700 872,800 GMA HLDG PDR 13.92 14 14.1 14.2 13.04 13.92 358,500 5,026,560

WARRANTS TECH WARRANT 0.92 0.93 0.87 0.93 0.85 0.92 8,511,000 7,813,220

3,500 -27,776,430 10,213,489 4,261,166 121,380 -6,568,054 16,202 31,224,635 -2,522,707.50 -519,120 -4,633,998.00 -36,495,050 -29,868,050 33,750 83,980 7,000 -16,234,320 -549,055 932,420 -8,030 3,120 219,470 4,000 169,482 1,517,730 10,000 107,600 6,642,775 -7,160,420 12,220 462,554 -1,061,390 85,000 -297,520 -99,120 -64,843,670 -11,490 -6,787,836 9,500 -14,500 56,337,930 102,080 -50 49,554,970 -10,344,140 360,700 446,855 365,610.00 3,311,338 -42,900 -4,500 2,760 289,420 25,048,610 -235,500 -1,397,002 9,900 -13,731,651 -8,900 73,780 -17,100 -811,190 -189,993.00 -5,876,105 -6,227,458.50 -3,520 40,868,130 22,900 33,370 551,800.00 -1,211,660 126,378 377,100 369,540 -53,200 56,000 9,863,109 14,940 1,143,860 649,415 75,000 390,001 -25,875 -9,899,625 55,055 -816,568 22,250 -7,040

SMALL & MEDIUM ENTERPRISES

ALTUS PROP HAUS TALK ITALPINAS KEPWEALTH MERRYMART XURPAS

18.02 1.27 1 2.85 1.88 0.44

18.72 1.28 1.03 2.89 1.89 0.445

EXHANGE TRADE FUNDS

FIRST METRO ETF

110.6

111

18.1 1.28 1.01 2.82 2.01 0.45

18.9 1.35 1.03 2.89 2.03 0.475

17.9 1.22 1 2.82 1.88 0.44

18.02 1.28 1.03 2.89 1.88 0.445

7,900 14,716,000 711,000 7,000 17,841,000 5,410,000

142,904 18,970,040 723,830 19,970 34,625,410 2,463,250

40,250 1,955,590 -200

111 111.5 110 111 4,450 493,230 -13,320

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Banking&Finance

NBI has 30 days to probe ‘hacked’ LandBank accts

By Joel R. San Juan @jrsanjuan1573

J

USTICE Secretary Menardo I. Guevarra has given the National Bureau of Investigation to submit its report on the alleged phishing scheme that victimized several teachers with accounts in the Land Bank of the Philippines (Landbank).

The deadline was issued by Guevarra in his Department Order 012, which formally directed the (NBI), through its Officer-in-Charge (OIC) Eric B. Distor, to investigate and conduct case build-up in connection with said illegal activity.

The DOJ chief also instructed the NBI to file charges against those who will be found responsible.

“OIC Distor is hereby directed to submit a report on the progress of the subject investigation and case

build-up directly by the Office of the Secretary within 30 days from receipt, and periodically thereafter,” Guevarra said.

The Teachers’ Dignity Coalition earlier claimed that it received a number of reports that some teachers lost as much as P121,000 each from their LandBank accounts.

The state-owned lender has already issued a statement denying their systems were hacked and saying that the incident could be due to phishing.

Phishing involves the fraudulent practice of sending emails claiming to be from reputable companies to gain access to personal information of individuals, such as passwords and credit card numbers.

T he Landbank said it has reached out to the affected customers in a bid to resolve the matter immediately.

Global Compact local networks and associations

A

SSOCIATIONS, by definition, are organizations or groups of individuals affiliated with one another that share a common purpose, interest or mission. They exist for the mutual enrichment and advancement of their members and of the community where they belong.

Before I was recently named as executive director of the Global Compact Network Philippines, I researched on the United Nations system to find out if there are association-like organizations within it and found out about the UN Global Compact. Here’s what I’ve learned.

Background

IN an address to the business leaders attending the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, on January 31, 1999, then UN Secretary General Kofi Annan announced the setting up of the Global Compact.

The Global Compact is a call to companies everywhere to align their operations and strategies with ten universal principles in the areas of human rights, labor, environment and anti-corruption and to take action in support of UN goals.

Now, 20 years later, the Global Compact has more than 15,000 companies based in over 160 countries and lodged in 69 local networks as part of the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative.

Local networks act as points of contact for the Global Compact signatories in their respective countries, implement the initiative and its ten principles at the country level, as well as help companies and non-profit organizations understand what responsible business means within a diverse national, cultural and regulatory context. Local networks are independent, self-governed and selfmanaged entities and work closely with the Global Compact’s Office in New York, USA. In the Philippines, the Philippine Marketing Association (PMA) established the Global Compact Network Philippines (GCNP) as part of its mission to achieve a higher purpose to become an important catalyst in the country’s sustainability.

The GCNP was launched on July 29, 2016, with founding members Ayala Corp., Land Bank of the Philippines, Pilipinas Shell Foundation Inc. and the PMA. Currently, the GCNP has 42 participating business organi-

Association World Octavio Peralta zations in various sectors such as general industries, energy, retail, financial, software and computer services, mobile communications and non-profits.

Commonalities with associations

While the Global Compact local networks are not associations per se, they have inherent characteristics that are common to associations, such as: 1. Constituency. While the local networks call their constituencies, “participants,” they are also oftentimes referred to as “members” because, like associations, members are assessed for financial contribution and are entitled to benefits for joining.

2. Shared purpose, mission and interest. The local network participants share a common purpose and mission similar to that of an association.

3. Governance. Like an association, a local network has a general assembly of members, a board of trustees, secretariat staff, volunteers and stakeholders.

4. Regulatory regime. The local network, like an association, is registered as a non-profit organization under existing laws of the land and is listed as such by the regulatory agency.

5. Value proposition. Same as an association, the local network has its own value proposition to its constituency.

6. Others. Like an association, the local network has to be financially sustainable, organized around sound and strong governance and leadership principles, be communication-savvy in terms of social media presence, is able to plan and implement events and to provide its constituency a platform to learn from each other, share problems and solutions and celebrate their achievements.

Octavio Peralta, currently the executive director of the Global Compact Network Philippines, is the founder and volunteer CEO of the Philippine Council of Associations and Association Executives, the “association of associations.” E-mail: obp@adfiap.org.

BusinessMirror

@butchfBM

S

en. Grace S. Poe, sitting chairman of the Senate Committee on Banks and Financial Institutions, was uneasy over the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) warning on “fake bills” dispensed by automatic teller

machines (ATMs).

“Reminders by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas to be alert of fake bills from ATMs are disquieting and raise the question on how the bogus money can find its way into the banks’ machines,” Poe said.

In a statement issued last Thursday, the senator pointed out that the

B3

BOC seized ₧28.4B worth of smuggled goods in 2021

T

By Bernadette D. Nicolas

@BNicolasBMs

HE Bureau of Customs (BOC) announced that some P28.4billion worth of smuggled goods in 2021 were seized, pushing the total to P87.25 billion since the start of the Duterte administration.

Customs Assistant Commissioner and Spokesman Vincent Philip C. Maronilla said last Thursday that the bureau’s anti-smuggling efforts resulted in 1,006 seizures of shipments last year.

Counterfeit goods with an estimated value of P21.65 billion still

cornered the bulk (76 percent) of seized smuggled goods last year.

Other seized items were: general merchandise (P1.83 billion); cigarette and/or tobacco products (P1.72 billion); agricultural products (P1.23 billion); other products (P844.85 million); used clothing

(P375.6 million); vehicles and accessories (232.69 million); illegal drugs (P230.26 million); personal protective equipment, medical supplies and cosmetics (P188.33 million); and, electronics (54.26 million).

In terms of the number of seizures, the bureau had the most seizures for agricultural products at 188, equivalent to about 20 percent of the total. This is followed by cigarettes/tobacco, at 131 seizures, illegal drugs (111), general merchandise (109) and other products (107). The bureau earlier reported that it has collected P645.765 billion last year, surpassing its P616.749 full-year goal by 4.7 percent.

Customs Commissioner Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero expressed confidence the bureau will once again hit its P671.659 billion collection goal for this year.

The bureau also revealed its 10-point priority actions for the year, which include the implementation of the “Customs e-Commerce” program and the improvement of revenue collection through non-traditional sources or through disposal or sale of abandoned or seized cargoes.

Other priorities of the agency for 2022 include the following: implementation of a computerization program; enhancement of learning and development program; full operationalization and promotion of the “Authorized Economic Operator” program; sustainment of integrity and quality management system; enhancement of the trade facilitation program; enhancement of employee welfare program; implementation of organizational restructuring; and, enhancement of performance management system.

PDIC issues new rules for record-keeping, reporting

T

HE Philippine Deposit Insurance Corp. (PDIC) announced it has recently issued Regulatory Issuance (RI) 2021-01, enjoining banks to implement the “Revised Rules and Regulations on RecordKeeping of Bank Deposits and Reportorial Requirements from Banks.”

The state deposit insurer said its most recent RI, which will take effect on February 8, 2022, implements key provisions of the PDIC Charter (Republic Act 3591, as amended).

The recent RI requires banks “to keep and maintain a true and accurate record or statement of their daily deposit account transactions, consistent with the applicable standards” set by the PDIC and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), a statement by the PDIC read.

“These provisions aim to safeguard the interest of the depositing public, evaluate the deposit insurance risk of banks and enable the PDIC to determine the insured status of deposits in banks.”

The PDIC said that to rationalize the said rules and regulations, provi-

sions from previous issuances on “Record-keeping of Bank Deposits” (RI 2006-01), “Computerized Records of Bank Deposits” (RI 2015-01) and “Revised Reportorial Requirements” (RI 1999-01) were repealed to form part of the PDIC RI 2021-01.

Among the salient features of the latter RI are the requirements for banks to submit a more comprehensive “operations manual on record-keeping of bank deposits and deposit-related reports and other documents.”

The PDIC said it requires banks to submit their enhanced operations manual, duly approved by their respective Board of Directors and consistent with the guidelines, within 30 calendar days from the effectivity date of the RI. “For newly-established banks, submission of the same should not be later than 90 calendar days after the start of their operations,” the PDIC said. “For any changes to the said manual, banks must provide the PDIC with the revised version of the document within 30 calendar days

from the effectivity of such changes.”

Aside from the enhanced operations manual, the RI also calls for the submission by banks of the “Report on the Features of the Bank Computer Systems and the Technical Specifications of the Deposit Account View,” or DAV, within 90 calendar days after the effectivity of the RI. Newly-established banks are required to submit their DAV within 90 calendar days from the start of their operations. For subsequent changes in the information on bank computer systems or in the technical specifications of the DAV, the revised report is required for submission within 30 calendar days from the effectivity of such changes.

“Moreover, banks will also be required to submit a certification of their compliance with the said RI as well as with other rules and regulations related to record-keeping of bank deposits,” the PDIC said. “The ‘Certification of Compliance,’ signed under oath by the President and the Chief Compliance Officer of the bank, must be submitted annually

BSP eyes more penalties vs forgers, coin hoarders

By Bianca Cuaresma

@BcuaresmaBM

T

HE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is eyeing tighter laws against currency counterfeiting and the unnecessary accumulation or hoarding of coins in the country, according to BSP Governor Benjamin E. Diokno.

Diokno told reporters last Thursday they are preparing legislative proposals that aim to raise the penalty of imprisonment for crimes involving currency counterfeiting and to criminalize coin hoarding.

The central bank chief said this is part of the BSP’s efforts to strengthen currency operations and maintain the integrity of banknotes and coins in the country.

“These proposed measures are expected to further strengthen BSP’s currency operations covering production, distribution, deposit-taking from banks, authenticity verification, anti-counterfeiting operations and retirement,” Diokno said.

Under current laws, the counterfeiting of Philippine money carries a jail sentence of at least 12 years and a day and a maximum

fine of P2 million. Diokno said they aim to make these penalties stiffer by increasing the length of imprisonment to deter the commission of this crime.

“The proposal entails amendments to existing laws and will take into consideration the current economic landscape, as well as advancements in printing technologies,” the governor said.

The BSP will also seek the enactment of a law that will define the crime of hoarding of coins and provide penalties for the commission of the offense. Diokno said this will involve the revival of earlier legislative initiatives on coin hoarding at the Senate and House of Representatives.

“The BSP continues to work with stakeholders towards protecting the public against the unlawful or improper use of Philippine currency,” the BSP governor said.

Last November, the BSP reported that it had carried out seven enforcement operations in the first nine months of 2021 that led to the seizure of more than 500 pieces of counterfeit Philippine banknotes worth more than P480,000.

Poe irked by BSP warning on fake notes from ATMs

By Butch Fernandez

Editor: Dennis D. Estopace • Friday, January 28, 2022

burden of distinguishing counterfeit bills emanating from banks from genuine ones should not be placed on depositors.

She emphasized that ATMs dispensing fake bills is “unacceptable and must have no place in the banking system.”

The Senator reminded that “as keepers of the people’s money, banks

must ensure state-of-the-art defenses against security breaches.”

Poe affirmed that “it is our financial institutions that carry the responsibility to steadfastly guard against vulnerabilities and keenly upgrade their systems amidst the changing times to keep our people’s unflinching trust in the banking industry.”

not later than January 31 of the succeeding year.”

The RI also identifies regular reports required for submission to PDIC from banks, namely: the quarterly PDIC Reporting Package (PRP); the semi-annual Bank Information Sheet (BIS); the annual Financial Audit Report (FAR); and, the annual DAV without deposit account numbers and depositor information.

The RI clarifies that if any of the submission deadlines fall on a nonbanking day in the local area where the state deposit insurer or reporting banks are situated, the deadline will be moved to the next banking day. As it may deem appropriate and necessary, the PDIC said it may also change the submission deadlines for required reports.

“Non-compliance with the RI shall subject the bank and/or its directors, officers, employees and agents liable to administrative penalty and criminal liability based on the provisions specified in the RI,” the state deposit insurer said.

DOJ indicts ex-rural bank execs for unsafe banking

T

HE Department of Justice (DOJ) Task Force on Financial Fraud indicted the former Chairperson/President and Branch Manager of the closed Rural Bank of Goa (Camarines Sur) Inc. for commission of irregularities and/ or conducting business in an unsafe and unsound manner, a criminal violation under Republic Act (RA) 3591, as amended, or the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corp. (PDIC) Charter.

In a resolution issued in January 2021, the DOJ found that the former chairman and president and the former Pili Branch Manager of the Rural Bank of Goa conducted business in an unsafe and unsound manner by creating and maintaining 838 questionable or spurious loan accounts aggregating P99.9 million in the bank’s books without credit folders or documentation.

Under RA 3591, conducting business in an unsafe and unsound manner is punishable by imprisonment of six to 12 years, or a fine of P50,000 to P10 million, or both, at the discretion of the court.

The case stemmed from a complaint filed by the PDIC, statutory Receiver of the Rural Bank of Goa, against the respondents. When PDIC took over the bank in March 2017, it

discovered the absence of loan documentations (e.g., promissory notes and application forms) and invalid addresses of borrowers for 838 loan accounts totaling P99.9 million.

This comprised 60 percent of the total loan portfolio of the bank’s Pili Branch.

The Rural Bank of Goa was ordered closed by the Monetary Board on March 16, 2017 through Monetary Board Resolution 428.A. The same resolution designated the PDIC as receiver of the bank and directed it to proceed with the takeover and liquidation of the bank.

The Rural Bank of Goa is a 2-unit rural bank with head office located in San Jose (Poblacion), Goa, Camarines Sur. Its lone branch is located in San Vicente, Pili (Capital), Camarines Sur. The PDIC remains relentless in its pursuit of justice against erring bank owners, officers, and unscrupulous parties who take advantage of the deposit insurance system for their gain. The PDIC’s vigorous legal actions are crucial for protecting the interests of depositors, safeguarding the deposit insurance fund and deterring bank officials and individuals from abusing the deposit insurance system.

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Friday, January 28, 2022 • Editor: Gerard S. Ramos

Show BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Tender and raw is Sorrentino’s ‘The Hand of God’

Today’s Horoscope

By Eugenia Last

z

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Ariel Winter, 24; Elijah Wood, 41; Sarah McLachlan, 54; Frank Darabont, 63.

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VOLUPTUOUS woman stands in a long line, outstanding in her beauty, with her nipples rigid against the thin dress she is wearing. A fancy, black car stops and calls the woman by her name: Patrizia. She looks intently into the car to the man dressed in tuxedo. She does not know him but he convinces her they know each other. He is San Gennaro, the patron saint of Naples who assures the woman she will have a child. Patrizia goes into the car and is brought into this huge house, dramatically decrepit, the kind of space that seems fit for orgies and masquerade balls. Then the Little Monk appears. San Gennaro instructs Patrizia to bend over and kiss the dwarfish figure. San Gennaro smacks Patrizia’s rump.

Patrizia comes home late to a husband who accuses her of having sex somewhere. He calls her a slut, a whore and beats her. Her cousins arrive with Patrizia splayed in bed, her generous bosom in full display. Thus begins the fond memory of Fabietto and his youth. Thus begins our incursion into cinematic cinema.

It is the ’80s in Naples and the buzz is about the arrival of the Diego Maradona, the soccer star from Argentina. Maradona is not simply coming to that region; he is invited to lead the soccer team that will represent Naples in a country that is mad about soccer.

Will Maradona agree to play for Naples? Will the Neapolitans have the money to pay for the sports superstar?

No matter, life in the home of the Schisa, the family to which Fabietto belongs, continues. Or, maybe continue is not the proper word; maybe “percolate” is the apt one. In the house, Fabietto’s parents are so in love with each other that when they discover something about the father, the world is turned upside down. Fabietto is bored with life and he lives it with such ordinariness in contrast to his kin who all appear extraordinary in appearances and character.

As in many depictions of the Italian family, the filial gatherings are huge, the amity is grand, and the conflict is even more grandiose. We take all this for granted until the day arrives when Fabietto’s brother auditions for no less than Federico Fellini. This triggers a shock of recognition: we are already with characters who would have made it to the truths and circuses of the master filmmaker himself!

If Fellini has his Amarcord and other filmic remembrances, then this must be the director’s—Paolo Sorrentino—own cache of raw ruminations.

Or, this could be meta-tribute to cinema.

A filmmaker comes to Naples and Fabietto, whose interest is philosophy, is seduced by filmmaking. He follows the director who is repulsive to the young boy as the former harangues the latter as to the contradictions of cinema and realities. His mission is not to convert a prospective disciple. And yet, the long speeches about films and imaginations are delivered by the filmmaker inside an underground water system or before he dips

into the water of Naples—scenarios recalling the oracular or the point before the hero embarks on an epic journey. This is the conceit of the film, as it winks at us or smiles at the sky because somewhere, the lesson is being told by the magically duplicitous human capacity to remember and to forget.

In between bouts of insanity of the glorious Aunt Patrizia and the moments of madness of the clan members is the arrival of the hero, Maradona, at the expense of the Neapolitan wealth. This finalizes the destiny of our young man. He opts not to join his parents going on vacation because from his father he receives a ticket to that soccer game where the skills of Maradona brought upon him the title “the hand of God”. That game would also allow Fabietto to live on and leave for Rome to discover his power not with life, but with the other life—cinema.

The Italian title of the film is a giveaway of the odyssey of our man. It reads “E stata la mano di Dio”, which translates to “It was the hand of God”.

That title and the blessing it hides behind the wounded resignation to fate are the very essence of Sorrentino’s film: it is a mosaic of contraptions and characters that do not seem to cohere but, in reality, is a paean to what fate is all about.

Fate is a rambunctious festival of choices and chances, errors and trials captured by a film that magnifies how we are seduced by the unknown and reduced by daily life. God is there at the margin eager to be referenced.

The Hand of God competed for the Golden Lion at the 78th Venice International Film Festival. It won the Grand Jury Prize. Filippo Scotti, an angel at the cusp of his own sexuality, plays Fabietto. His performance earned him the Marcello Mastroianni Award, a prize given to outstanding performance of a newcomer in the Venice concourse. Luisa Ranieri, who plays Patrizia, is a spectacle, both as a bold beauty and an actor.

The film is written, produced and directed

by Paolo Sorrentino. He directed The Great Beauty (La Grande Belleza) in 2013, which won the Best Foreign Language Film at the 86th Academy Awards.

The Hand of God is streaming on Netflix.

‘Jessica Soho Presidential Interviews’ lords over TV ratings, dominates online THE GMA Public Affairs special The Jessica Soho Presidential Interviews set the bar high for future election specials with anchor Jessica Soho boldly asking four of the leading presidential aspirants tough questions about the controversies thrown at them, their stand on pressing issues, and their concrete plans should they be elected. The three-hour long television special became the mosttalked about subject the past week, receiving rave reviews, dominating weekend programming, and registering historic online milestones.

The special, which aired last January 22, was the most-watched program the past weekend registering 16.2 percent people ratings based on Nielsen Philippines TV Audience Measurement’s overnight Urban Philippines data.

The special’s highly successful TV airing was heavily supported by advertisers at the same time.

The Jessica Soho Presidential Interviews also took the Internet by storm. Its official hashtag (#JessicaSohoInterviews) dominated Twitter’s trending topics both in the Philippines and worldwide within minutes of airing, generating over 290,000 tweets. It remained the top trending topic in the Philippines until Sunday and re-entered the list on Monday morning. Likewise on Facebook, the muchanticipated special chalked up over 4.1 million engagements, the livestream across several GMA channels generating over 3.6 million views while it attracted thousands of eyeballs among the younger demographic on TikTok. On YouTube, the livestream on GMA News and Public Affairs’ channel reached over 230,000 peak concurrent viewers. It became the top trending video on the platform shortly after the special

ended. The video has amassed over 5.2 million views as of January 25.

The special invited the five leading presidential aspirants based on the latest surveys, with four accepting the invitation: Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso, Sen. Panfilo “Ping” Lacson, Sen. Emmanuel “Manny” Pacquiao, and Vice President Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo.

The special also aired on GMA’s flagship international channel GMA Pinoy TV and was also simulcast via the network’s flagship AM station and all its Super Radyo stations nationwide.

The Jessica Soho Presidential Interviews is the maiden offering of GMA Network’s Eleksyon 2022 series of election specials, and is part of its “Dapat Totoo” advocacy campaign. Viewers who missed the original airing can catch the replay on January 30 at 9:45 pm on GTV.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY: Honesty is the best policy. Get to the point, and you’ll accomplish the most. Put your heart into what you believe in, and you won’t be disappointed.

Watch what others do, but don’t follow suit. Offering support from a distance will leave you more time to nurture and build a life that makes you happy. Take control and do your best. Your lucky numbers are 5, 17, 22, 24, 33, 36, 40.

a

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Complete your to-do list before moving on to fun and games.

You’ll enjoy yourself more if you take care of stressful matters first so you can enjoy downtime with someone or do something you love worry-free. HHHHH

b

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Joint ventures aren’t in your best interest. Don’t trust someone to handle matters appropriately.

Use your intelligence and do the legwork yourself if you want things to sway in your favor. Take charge and don’t look back. HHH

c

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Emotional deception is prevalent. Whether someone is playing with your feelings or you refuse to see the truth, shake it off and be realistic about what to do next. Don’t jeopardize your position, reputation or opportunities. Be honest. HHH

d

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Call on someone who shares your enthusiasm, and you’ll have fun. Your ability to turn something simple into a gala affair will win hearts and favors. Love is in the stars, and a romantic gesture will bring you closer to someone special. HHH

e

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Socialize, network and connect with people who interest you, but don’t overspend or let indulgent behavior take over. Moderation will keep you levelheaded and on top of your game, and the money you save will pay for something that helps you excel. HHHHH

f

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Stay calm, and follow through with your plans. Taking better care of yourself and looking your best will result in compliments that lift your spirits. Wear your heart on your sleeve and share your intentions. Love and romance will enhance your life. HH

g

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Look out for someone vulnerable. Your assistance will make a difference, even if it isn’t acknowledged immediately. Refuse to let anyone bring you down or discourage you from doing what’s right. Don’t take a health risk. Avoid harm’s way. HHHH

h

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Do what feels right, and use your experience, knowledge and connections to reach your destination. Adjust your surroundings to create a space that unleashes your creativity and encourages you to follow your heart and pursue your dreams. Romance is favored. HHH

i

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Listen, digest and discard what isn’t valid. Don’t labor over what others believe; choose what’s important to you, then proceed. Don’t be afraid to do your own thing and to invest your time, effort and money into something that matters to you. HHH

j

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): A unique change to how you do business, handle your money and move forward will excite you. A change is in the air, and adjustments that turn your space into a playground for your imagination will encourage new beginnings. Love is featured. HHH

k

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Set some guidelines to help you stick to your schedule.

A responsible attitude will enhance your chance to outmaneuver anyone trying to stand in your way. Trust your instincts and proceed with confidence, determination and your eye on the finish line. HHHH

l

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Think before you offer information that’s not factual. Leading someone astray will come back to bite you.

Let your actions speak for you. Be kind, considerate and helpful, and you’ll maintain a stellar reputation and attract a positive response. HH BIRTHDAY BABY: You are patient, compassionate and complimentary. You are insightful and unpredictable.

‘Beginning of Winter’ BY JULIAN LIM The Universal Crossword/Edited by David Steinberg ACROSS 1 Tennis shoe brand 5 Doll’s cry 9 Brink 13 Noodles served with tempura 14 Name hidden in “final answer” 15 Word aptly removed from e___

ation 16 What natural athletes possess 18 Protractor measurement 19 Regard like the Cheshire Cat 20 Princesses’ headpieces 21 “7 Rings” singer Grande,

to fans 22 Slowpoke’s speed 25 Flea or fly 27 Acting like 28 “East of ___” 29 Removes the rind from 31 Hit, as one’s toe 33 “C’___ la vie!”

34 With 37-Across, “Saturday

Night Live” start ... or a hint

to 16-, 22-, 54- and 62-Across 37 See 34-Across 39 “Shop ___ You Drop” 42 God, to the Romans

44 Birds “a laying” in “The Twelve

Days of Christmas” 48 Gets on in years 50 Devices that produce

15-Across, informally 53 October birthstone 54 Honesty that’s hard to swallow 57 Kind or sort 58 Where many a flap occurs?

59 Flea or fly 61 Short quarrel 62 Harsh cleverness 65 Minecraft blocks, e.g.

66 Desktop with Thunderbolt ports 67 Actress Torres 68 Commentator’s column 69 Dweeb 70 Smallest bills DOWN 1 Material that PETA protests 2 “Sounds right to me” 3 Unlike skyscrapers 4 Not pro 5 Peace Prize winner Yousafzai 6 Suds dispenser?

7 See 8-Down 8 With 7-Down, Marvel hero

9 10 11 12 15 17 20 21 23 24 26 30 32 35 36 38 39 40 41

43 45 46 47 49 51

named for a small crawler Bite-sized hors d’oeuvre Get out of economy class, say Consoles Is tense?

Colorado ski area Taiwanese-born director Lee Prepare to advance a base Headspace, for one Opposite of trans Really enjoying “Unpretty” girl group Grassy covering Plead Skeptical ___ tape (DIYer’s roll) Prefix with “nate” Sriracha relative “You’ve stumped me” Album that was the Beatles’ swan song Address akin to madam Total pwnage Cracker served with chowder Big, bugling animal Declared Instrument that gives learners

52 55 56 60 62 63 64

calluses “Jolly old” fella Love god Buying channel Waffle choice eBay action “If u ask me ...”

Many are grad students

Solution to today’s puzzle:

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Editor: Gerard S. Ramos

• Friday, January 28, 2022

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IMAGE FROM THE CHINESE LANGUAGE INSTITUTE

When the Water Tiger roars, everyone should remain calm and stay positive

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HE Year of the Water Tiger comes roaring into view on February 1, and, unfortunately, it may herald tension, struggles and rebellion. This could mean political turmoil is on the horizon.

According to premier feng shui practitioner Marites Allen, Water Tigers “are passionate about their goals. They don’t just sit around and wait for bounty to fall on their laps; they go out there and make things happen. These types of Tigers are avid learners who are always open to new concepts and methods. Another plus is that they won’t hesitate to help friends in need, such that when they themselves are in trouble, friends are quick to offer assistance.”

Generally, the Water Tiger year will not be kind to those born in the year of the Monkey, a natural enemy of the large cat. “The 2022 Destiny pillar shows all Yang elements, and is dominated by the Yang Tiger signs on its Day, Month and Year Pillars.

This could bring a triple whammy to Monkeys,” said Allen. Despite a possible triple-whammy, the year can also energize Monkeys, along with those born in the years of the Tiger, Dragon, Horse, and Dog. In contrast, she said, those born in the Year of the Rat, Ox, Snake, Rabbit, Sheep, Rooster, and Boar “may have to take it easy this year, and proceed only with caution and determination.”

The country’s destiny chart—from February 1, 2022 to January 31, 2023—is marked with a lot of wood and water elements, some earth and fire, but an absence of metal. Excessive water and wood suggests constant movement and traveling, said Allen, meaning that people will want to go and live abroad, especially with the presence of the Sky Horse Star this year.

“But the missing metal element infers a tendency for people to act and do things independently— thus, more division rather than partnership,” noted Allen. Metal is like magnet—it represents

connections—connecting people, and therefore its absence indicates many forms of separation. This could also mean a lack of justice to those who need it, resulting in, for example, human rights violations not being properly resolved. People may tend to be lazy, stubborn, and envious,” she stressed.

“The year 2022 requires everyone to be more dynamic, zestful, passionate and positive, as surviving the pandemic is an achievement and has truly made everyone stronger. This is the time for everyone to give their best, improvise their lifestyle, and be 100-percent positive,” said Allen. “Be calm, balanced, and do things in moderation,” she advises.

The lucky colors for the Year of the Water Tiger are shades of green, blue, and a little bit of red and yellow.

THE FORECAST FOR EACH ANIMAL SIGN

RAT (1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008) The auspicious Victory star shines on Rats, giving them a more favorable year compared to the last.

The first half of the year calls for self-restraint and serious effort at improving your game and be better equipped for what lies ahead. Because just like the yin and yang of life, some unfavorable stars may throw some challenges in your daily affairs. Keep your cool and apply the “less talk, less mistake” strategy and you can watch those issues fade away.

OX (1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009) With the annual wealth star in your chart, you’re bound for an exciting year. Your career is most favored and although there may be stumbling blocks along the way, you can rely on people to trust to help to get you through them. Stay calm, be honest to yourself, and try as much as possible to not disclose personal information to people you don’t really know. Learn to adapt to the circumstances.

TIGER (1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010) Trust that the visiting wealth star will help in most of your financial problems. Some issues may test your patience as they will cause you to slow down.

You may feel hopeless especially when things turn out against you constantly. Try to lower your expectations to avoid constant disappointments.

Things will get better if you remain steadfast and committed for the rest of the year.

RABBIT (1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011) Brace yourself for possible negativities brought

by hostile energies that indicate heartaches and misunderstandings. Do not despair as there are also positive indications in other areas of your life. You need to be steadfast and upright in all your dealings to attract good fortune.

Renowned feng shui practitioner Marites Allen

DRAGON (1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012) Dragons may expect some good tidings due to the auspicious stars in their charts that could bring luck in love, education and travel. However, just like last year, expect some bumps that could pull you down in other life areas. Fight all forms of mental or physical stress that could hinder your chances for having a new prosperous year. Stay optimistic and take those events from the past away from your mind. This year will be kinder.

SNAKE (1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013) Good fortune is in the horizon, especially in the wealth and career area. Luck in love, travel, and education will provide better experiences for you.

Just be extra cautious when it comes to your health.

You may experience low energy, but don’t fret, there will be no major issues. Make yourself busy, be productive, and keep moving forward. Dispel negative thoughts, or else they will become your reality.

HORSE (1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014) As long as you keep your mind focused, you will be among the winners in 2022. You are blessed with the so-called future prosperity star, which can provide auspicious blessings and good fortune. If you had planted seeds in the past, this is the time to harvest the fruits. This is also a good time to make a shift to new beginnings.

SHEEP (1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015) The bad energies brought about by your conflict sign last year have passed. You may expect favorable conditions this time when lucky stars visit you. Specifically, you may experience a rise in your career, and achieve great outcomes from your relationship. But just like the yin and yang of life, there will be a vicious star that could spoil your enjoyment. Plan your year along the wisdom of erring on the side of caution.

MONKEY (1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016) Your prospects are unbalanced, this being your conflict year. Try to figure out if it is helpful for you to shift and try new things. No matter how hard it will be,

always remember that there will always be light at the end of the tunnel. Try to look deep into every situation this period before making any important life decisions.

ROOSTER (1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017) The Rooster has a lot to look forward to as they are blessed with wealth and prosperity star number 8 on their chart. Your career will be great and you could expect rewards for all your efforts. You must trust in your abilities, but at the same time carry your team along. You can’t work in isolation in this new year.

DOG (1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018) You will experience the unexpected support of a lucky star that will bring a significant improvement in your fortune this year. Use your talents and abilities to catch all the good tidings that await you.

BOAR (1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019) You will benefit from your affiliation with your secret friend, the Tiger. On the other hand, there will be some moments wherein you may experience some demoralizing issues. Just be cool and whatever those situations may be, let them pass. n For your personal destiny chart, visit maritesallen.com

Five tips for a social support system in the pandemic SOCIAL distancing protocols and stay-at-home orders may affect one’s social connections. However, it is crucial to have a social support network of families, friends and peers to help us get through trying times, especially amid the challenges brought by the pandemic.

Psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, author and educator Kendra Cherry, an expert in psychology and personality research, and the medical editors of Mayo Clinic, a nonprofit organization committed to clinical practice, education and research, have all reiterated the mental health benefits of support systems and how to foster these networks.

These findings have been compiled by the experts of the Benilde Well-Being Center (BWC) of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, to create and develop these connections in and out of the family.

Here are five pointers for a healthy social support system amid the pandemic: 1. Make healthy choices. Social groups will influence your behavior. Surround yourself with encouraging individuals. They will inspire you to reach your goals.

2. Cope with stress. Caring peers allow us to better deal with stress. This is likewise associated with lower risks of high blood pressure and other

cardiovascular diseases caused by emotional distress.

Care in times of crisis also lessens the repercussions of trauma-induced disorders.

3. Improve motivation. Connect with persons who actively try to attain your shared goals. Talk to those who have the same experience. They are a source of support, empathy and motivation.

4. Cultivate your network. Get involved in a cause or hobby. Meet others with common values. Explore other reputable sites or online communities dedicated to those with similar interests or experiences.

5. Give and take. A successful and lasting relationship is a two-way street. It requires the

active participation of both parties. Stay in touch and let others know you care. Answer phone calls.

Return e-mails. Reciprocate invites. But do not overwhelm them. Listen to them when they speak.

Be available when they need your assistance.

Express how much you appreciate their help.

Social support may be emotional, instrumental or informational. It comes in many forms. The goal of building this network is to reduce your stress level, so be cautious of situations and environments that might drain your energy. If you are struggling to make and keep friends, you may likewise seek guidance from professionals.

B6 Friday, January 28, 2022

Panda Express offers new savory and sweet wok-cooked chicken entrée starting January 29

Alaska provides foster kids with ‘Lakas at Talas’, and gift packages

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S we greet a new year, new challenges have inevitably arisen given the current state of the world. With these problems that we face during these uncertain times, Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk sought to uplift vulnerable communities and share the spirit of giving. Last Christmas, Alaska invited members of its Facebook community, MOMs of Alaska (MOMAs), to make the holidays a little brighter for the children from the company’s partner orphanages, Christian Compassion Ministries Foundation, Inc. and House of Refuge Foundation, Inc. Over a hundred members of the Alaska MOMAs community came together to create special Christmas cards, with creative designs and personalized messages dedicated to each of the children.

Alaska collected the Christmas cards and held a turnover with the partner institutions, donating 70 days’ worth of “Lakas at Talas” in the form of Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk products that can give the children the added nutrition to help with their brain and body development while they are growing.

Gift packs with toys and educational materials were also included in the turnover, which the children welcomed with smiles and loud cheers.

Mailyn Balairos, Center Head of Christian Compassion Ministries Foundation, Inc. (CCMFI), a churchbased Christian organization that aims to provide children with educational

CENTER Head Mailyn Balairos (left) is joined by the staff of Christian Compassion Ministries as they receive the personalized Christmas cards and 70 days’ worth of “Lakas at Talas” from Alaska. assistance, shelter, medical aid, skills training and nourish their souls with the word of God, shared her appreciation to the moms who took their time to create Christmas cards for the children under their care. “On behalf of CCMFI and the children, I wanted to convey my deepest gratitude to the moms of Alaska and to Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk for this unforgettable event for the children,” Mailyn shared.

Riza Lepasana, OIC and Directress of House of Refuge Foundation Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting orphaned and abandoned children in Metro Manila, also expressed her gratitude for the initiative. “On behalf of House of Refuge, I sincerely thank the moms who made an effort to make this Christmas feel

special for our kids, and to thank Alaska for sharing their blessings of ‘Lakas at Talas’ with our children,” Riza said.

Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk also thanks its partner orphanages for assisting and providing homes to children in need and giving them the “alaga” or care that they deserve. In these challenging times, Alaska reaches out to the children of House of Refuge and Christian Compassion Ministries Foundation and hopes to continue their mission of providing affordable quality nutrition to Filipino children and families everywhere.

For more information on Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk and its initiatives, visit www.alaskamilk.com and www. facebook.com/alaskamilkph.

BPI hosts 2022 Busuanga Cup

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HE Bank of the Philippine Islands, through its Asset Management and Trust Corp., has teamed up with the Philippine Inter Island Sailing Foundation (Phinsaf) to present this year’s edition of the Busuanga Cup, one of the country’s top and most exciting sailing tournaments, from Feb 17-22.

Now on its 6th edition, it includes the 135-nautical mile Nasugbu coast to Busuanga race, as well as the Doni Altura Memorial Cup in Busuanga, and the Linapacan Rally around the Calamian Island Group.

There will be four classes of boats taking part in the annual event—the IRC Racing Class, IRC Cruising Class, Cruising Class, and accompanying power boats.

Fierce competition can be expected with may boats returning including the Subic-based Beneteau First 36.7, Selma Star helmed by Jun Avecilla, which won overall in 2019 and 2021. Also competing is race record holder Bellatrix, an Ice 52 captained by Jun Villanueva which won line honors in 2020.

Inter-club competition will be exciting as boats from the yacht clubs of Puerto Galera, Punta Fuego, Manila, Subic Bay,

and the Lighthouse-based Subic Sailing are joining the fray.

There are no foreign entries due to the Covid travel restrictions, but an international fleet is expected to take part in 2023.

“The Philippines is an undiscovered paradise for sailing, as it is an environment-friendly sport and is safe even during a pandemic. With thousands of beautiful islands, friendly people, moderate wind and seas, sailing has the potential to put the archipelago on the map as the world’s best,” says Phinsaf director Monchu Garcia.

In recent years, Phinsaf has been organizing sailing tournaments in cooperation with the Department of Tourism to help promote the country as a sports tourism hub.

The event fires off from Club Punta Fuego on. Feb. 17 which will take an overnight race to Black Island at northwest Busuanga. Boats will anchor at Marina Del Sol Yacht Club in Busuanga Bay, with additional races the next day around the picturesque islands.

An open-air awarding takes place at Marina del Sol Resort where the Doni

Altura Perpetual Trophy will be awarded to the overall Racing Class winner, as well as trophies and prizes to the class winners.

Social activities will be limited, and participants are required to be fullyvaccinated and to take an antigen test 24 hours before the start of the races at Club Punta Fuego. Participants staying ashore in Busuanga will be required to take a new test upon arrival, as arranged by the Busuanga municipal government which is supporting the event again.

The Linapacan Rally kicks off after the races, where boats take a 3-day cruise exploring the islands of Northern Palawan. In 2021, the boats circumnavigated Culion and sailed around nearby islands.

The Rally wraps up on Feb. 22 when boats return to Busuanga Bay. As in previous races, the start and finish boat and safety communications boat will be Broadwater Marine’s Lost in Asia, skippered by owner Peter Baird, a longtime supporter of the boating industry.

Protocols of the Inter-Agency Task Force and the DOT will be enforced to ensure safety and health of participants during the event.

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O sweet beginnings and savory dishes, Panda Express® is welcoming the New Year with a new entrée: Honey Sesame Chicken.

Available for a limited time only, Panda’s new chicken entrée is made with thin, crispy strips of all-white meat chicken raised without antibiotics and tossed with freshcut string beans, and crisp red bell peppers.

It is coated in a delicious honey sauce and topped off with sesame seeds.

“Honey Sesame Chicken is inspired by a Cantonese dish that is traditionally made from a whole chicken with honey marinade and brushed with honey sauce when it’s fresh out of the fryer. It offers a richer flavor profile with toasty sesame seeds in each bite,” explained Chef Jimmy Wang, Head of Culinary Innovation at Panda Express.

Starting January 29, 2022, Honey Sesame Chicken will be available across all Panda Express stores for dine-in, take out, and delivery through order.pandaexpress.com.

ph, GrabFood, and foodpanda.

Try the new Honey Sesame Chicken while supplies last. Available at SM Megamall, SM North Edsa, DD Meridian Park Pasay and SM Grand Central in Caloocan.

To get more information about Panda Express, visit www.facebook.com/ PandaExpressPH/ (Facebook) and @ PandaExpressPH (Instagram).

The Bellevue Resort aids Odette-hit Bohol

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TAYING true to its commitment in the midst of crisis, The Bellevue Resort in Bohol has been taking the lead to extend assistance to communities affected by supertyphoon Odette in the province.

The five-star resort in Panglao Island continues to advocate for hospitality service by helping people in community by inspiring and mobilizing support.

The Bellevue led initiatives and donation drives to raise funds to deliver aid to the remote victims, organizing relief operations and mobilizing volunteers to extend immediate assistance in disaster-affected areas. Its relief operations helped respond to thousands of families in need which was made possible with the support of its partners, donors, and volunteers.

Typhoon Odette caused massive devastation which affected the water and

power supply in Bohol. The Bellevue Group donated solar-powered lamps and provided clean water to Panglao residents to help them meet the basic necessities as they start to rebuild their lives.

“We would like to extend our gratitude to those who helped and contributed to the recovery efforts, like actress Gabbi Garcia, actor Khalil Ramos, the Bohol External Resources Facilitation Unit known as Hugop Bohol, and to all those who donated and tirelessly helped. These relief operations uphold solidarity and philanthropic spirit amid great adversity,” says The Bellevue Resort managing director Dustin Chan.

Since its opening in 2013, the luxury eco-friendly resort has been spearheading corporate social responsibility projects and sustainable tourism initiatives which benefit the local community.

Scholastic Asia taps Mayani to extend aid and support to community library in Baseco

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HE world’s largest children books publisher Scholastic Asia has launched Project Aklat at Pangarap with agriculture marketplace Mayani to provide relief assistance and push community literary among the children of 196 indigent families affected by a massive fire breakout in Barangay 649, Baseco.

Core to the initiative is utilizing Mayani’s community campaigns expertise and its platform for the online giving of food packs sourced from local farmers, after which free books were donated by Scholastic Asia upon meeting the total target food donations.

The endeavor also drew the support of volunteer group No One Left Out, outdoor advertiser HDI, and Sto. Nino De Baseco Parish, who led the on-ground relief distribution.

“As Scholastic celebrates its 100 years, it’s in our roadmap to strengthen initiatives that will promote learning and reading. We’re active in partnering with organizations with the same goals as ours when it comes to giving back to the community,” said Jane Tiongco-Aguirre, General Manager for the Philippines of

Scholastic Asia. “Every Filipino child should be able to be given a chance to strengthen their love for learning and eventually live a life that they've built for themselves in the future. We are happy that Mayani sees this eye to eye with us.”

Scholastic is known to be the publisher of the children’s favorites Harry Potter and Clifford the Big Red Dog. They are an active partner of schools in the Philippines in strengthening student reading proficiency.

“One of our platform’s broadened use cases is empowering our customers to give back to causes that they personally care about. As an impact-driven organization, we open our platform for a multitude of partners to anchor their social drives on and tap other value points in our ecosystem,” remarked JT Solis, the Co-Founder and CEO of Mayani.

Over one metric ton of fresh produce and chicken, as well as 500 books and technology-enabled learning materials have been donated via the project. The books have been turned over already to the Baseco children’s community – an effort that will complement their alternative learning programs.

Sports BusinessMirror

mirror_sports@yahoo.com.ph | Editor: Jun Lomibao

Friday, January 28, 2022 B7

A SHOT AT HISTORY CAYETANO

DONAIRE

Senator Pia sponsors resolution honoring boxing trainer Donaire

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HE Senate on Wednesday adopted a resolution honoring Rachel Marcial Donaire for being the first woman and Filipina to receive the honorary World Boxing Council’s (WBC) Trainer’s Belt.

Senator Pia Cayetano, sponsor of the measure, said Marcial Donaire is the woman behind the defensive strategies of renowned Filipino boxer Nonito “The Filipino Flash” Donaire Jr., who is a fourdivision conqueror and a three-time bantamweight champion.

“This placed Rachel Donaire in an unprecedented position as she became the first ever woman head trainer to coach a world champion,” Cayetano said, adding that the WBC Trainer’s Belt is given to boxing coaches and trainers who are recognized for their valuable work alongside legendary boxing champions.

Proposed Senate Resolution No. 983 honors Rachel Donaire as “a leading example of a strong Filipina, as she inspires fellow women by her

‘Ina ng Isport’ on ‘Rise Up Shape Up’

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HE Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) will feature Gintong Gawad 2021 “Ina ng Isport” awardee Norma Alamara in Saturday’s “Rise Up Shape Up.” The “Ina ng Isports” award is conferred to a mother who prides herself in having the most number of children in the national pool whose collective performance tops the number of accumulated medals in national and international competitions.

Alamara is a proud single mother from Davao City who raised five champions—a testament to her gentle yet mighty strength as a mother.

Her five sons, Ali, Frazier, Dexter, Mummar and Norton have shown sports excellence and were part of the national swimming and water polo teams that participated in the Southeast Asian Games from 2002 to 2017.

PSC Women in Sports Commissioner Celia H. Kiram said that the presence of inspiring women in grassroots sports help the PSC work with local communities in developing sports excellence and producing topperforming national athletes.

Gintong Gawad is a national awards platform that celebrates and pays tribute to ground-breaking, inspiring, notable, timeless, outstanding contributions to the promotion and development of women and sports at the grassroots level.

Gintong Gawad also presented awards for the Babaeng Atleta, Modelo ng Kabataan; Babaeng Atletang may Kapansanan, Modelo ng Kabataan; Babaeng Tagasanay ng Isport; Babaeng Lider ng Isport sa Komunidad; Kaagapay ng Isports sa Komunidad; Produktong Pang-Isport na Natatangi at Makabago; and Proyektong Isport Pang-Kababaihan.

REMEMBERING KOBE, GIANNA AND CO. A bronze sculpture honoring former

Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe Bryant, his daughter Gianna Bryant, and the names of those who died, is displayed at the site of a 2020 helicopter crash in Calabasas, California, on Wednesday. AP

ability to efficiently juggle her roles as a mother, wife, manager, strength and conditioning coach, and now as Nonito Donaire’s head coach.”

Majority Leader Juan Miguel “Migz” F. Zubiri expressed support for the measure, saying “we should have more women in all sectors not only as fighters or as the athletes themselves, but as educators, trainers or sports specialists.”

Following his victory last May 2021 for the WBC World Bantamweight Title against French boxer Nordine Oubaali in Carson, California, Nonito Donaire paid tribute to his wife and trainer, Rachel Donaire, whom he described as “the voice in the corner,” being the only one he could hear during the night of the championship.

“I am proud and honored to sponsor this measure commending and congratulating Rachel Donaire for forging her own path, a path ‘til now was untrodden by women,” Cayetano said.

E

VEN before he hit his first ball at this year’s Australian Open, Rafael Nadal knew he had an open door to set the men’s record for most career Grand Slam singles titles.

So far he hasn’t let it close.

Nadal plays Matteo Berrettini in one semifinal on Friday at Melbourne Park, knowing he’s potentially two match wins from a 21st major title.

He’s tied for the record of 20 with Roger Federer, who is recovering from right knee surgery, and Novak Djokovic, who was deported from Australia on the eve of the tournament following an 11-day visa saga over his decision not to be vaccinated for Covid-19.

In the other semifinal, Daniil Medvedev plays Stefanos Tsitsipas in a rematch of their 2021 Australian Open semifinal.

Medvedev won last year’s semifinal, then lost to Djokovic in the final.

After Nadal’s tough five-set win over Denis Shapovalov on Tuesday, he looked to take away some of the pressure of that 21st major.

“I don’t believe that my happiness, my future happiness is going to depend on if I achieve one more Grand Slam than the others, or if the others achieve more Grand Slams than me,” Nadal said. “For me, the fact that we are equal at 20...the only thing that says is that we share an amazing part of the history of our sport, and for me it’s a real honor to be part of it.”

Nadal spoke highly of Berrettini, among the players like Tsitsipas and Shapovalov who could replace the Big Three who have dominated the

sport for nearly 20 years.

“Matteo, he’s one of the best players of the world,” Nadal said. “I need to play my 100 percent and my highest level if I want to keep having chances to fight, to be competitive, and to try to be in the final.”

The pair have only played once—Nadal beat the Italian in the semifinals of the 2019 US

Open in straight sets. Berrettini has matured since, having lost the Wimbledon final last year to Djokovic in four sets. Nadal gives a decade in age to Berrettini—35 to 25.

US Open champion Medvedev will have to overcome the fatigue from a late-night, 4 hour, 42-minute, five-set comeback win over Felix AugerAliassime on Wednesday.

Djokovic was firmly on Medvedev’s mind during his escape over Auger-Aliassime, who won the first two sets and had a match point in the fourth.

In his on-court interview, Medvedev said he’d asked himself: “What would Novak do?” when he was in that kind of situation.

“I have to take what I can from the best,” Medvedev said. “Rafa, Roger, they also have done it so many

times but I’ve played more times with Novak.

“Some matches I watched him [Djokovic] win the Grand Slams, being two sets to love down.... During all the matches, as soon as I was down a little bit, I was like, ‘Just be like Novak.

Show him that you are better.’”

The 25-year-old Russian has a 6-2 lead in career meetings with Tsitsipas, although the

Greek player beat Medvedev in straight sets the last time they met in last year’s French Open quarterfinals. Tsitsipas advanced to the semis here in much easier fashion, beating Jannick Sinner in straight sets in an afternoon quarterfinal.

Medvedev is two wins away from becoming the first man in the Open era to win his second Grand Slam in the next major tournament after his first.

He wasn’t aware.

“Actually, I didn’t know this stat... it’s a great challenge,” Medvedev said in a news conference after his quarterfinal win. “It will be history.” AP

TEAM PHL OFF TO BEIJING FOR ’22 WINTER OLYMPICS C

By Josef Ramos

HEF de mission Bones Floro leads a small and basic Philippine delegation that will fly to Beijing on Friday morning to help Asa Miller in his second consecutive Winter Olympics that start in a week.

Floro will be accompanied by Athlete Welfare officer Joebert on a Japanese Airlines flight from Manila that will have a brief stopover in Tokyo before proceeding to Beijing, which is hosting its second Olympics after the 2008 Summer Games.

“It’s all systems go for the

departure of Team Philippines to Beijing,” Floro said. “We have been complying with all the Covid-19 countermeasures and protocols for travel to the Beijing Olympic bubble.”

“We made sure that Asa’s only concerns are his training and competitions,” he added.

Miller, his father Kelly and Philippine Ski and Snowboard Federation President Jim Palomar Apelar will fly from Los Angeles to Beijing on Sunday, along with Philippine Skating Union president Nikki Cheng, designated as the delegation’s Covid-19 Liaison Officer, who will take a separate

flight from Manila.

Miller’s American coach Will Gregorak will be arriving in China from the US anytime next week.

The Winter Olympics open on February 4 with the FilipinoAmerican Miller—the country’s lone representative to the Games— competing in alpine skiing’s men’s slalom and giant slalom starting on February 18 at the Xiaohaituo Alpine Skiing field in Yanqing District. The Games end two days after that.

Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) President Rep. Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino praised the 21-year-old Miller for qualifying for

his second straight Winter Games after Pyeongchang in 2018.

“It’s really an honor that our tropical country has a representative for the third straight Winter Olympics. We’re lucky to have Asa [Miller],” Tolentino said.

Miller, who’s based in Portland, will be carrying the country’s colors during the parade of countries in the opening ceremony at the Beijing National Stadium or Bird’s Nest.

The delegation members underwent two RT-PCR tests prior to departure and will strictly observe stringent health and safety protocols while in Beijing.

German soccer coaches banned for using fake vaccine passes

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RANKFURT, Germany—Two German soccer coaches have been suspended from working in the sport after it was ruled Wednesday they used fake coronavirus vaccination records.

A disciplinary panel at the German soccer federation ruled former Werder Bremen head coach Markus Anfang and his assistant Florian Junge had obtained fake passes last year identifying them as being fully vaccinated.

The federation said Anfang and Junge used the passes to be exempt from virus testing at the club and presented them to local health authorities to avoid going into isolation after contact with an infected player.

“Markus Anfang and Florian Junge have significantly infringed against the role-model function of a coach,” Hans E. Lorenz, chair of the federation’s sports court, said in a statement.

Anfang initially denied using a fake pass when doubts over his documents were first raised in November and said he had been vaccinated. He and Junge both stepped down from their posts at the second-division club soon afterward.

Anfang was banned for a year and fined €20,000 ($22,500) and Junge for 10 months and fined €3,000 ($3,380), with both bans backdated to start from November. Lorenz said Anfang and Junge had both admitted wrongdoing and would have part of their bans

RAFAEL NADAL is looking to take away some of the pressure of that 21st major. AP

Obiena skips Karlsruhe meet

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OKYO Olympian Ernest John “EJ” Obiena will not compete in the Init Indoor Meeting in Karlsruhe, Germany, that starts on Friday, according to his adviser and benefactor Jim Lafferty.

“We have decided to pull out of Karlsruhe. EJ just doesn’t have enough post-surgery training days and his timing is off,” said Lafferty, adding the 26-year-old Asian men’s pole vault record holder returned to training seven days after his knee surgery last January 11.

“The knee is fine and pain free. He’s just having timing issues particularly on a full approach and this takes some time to work out,” he said.

Obiena underwent a surgery to repair a meniscal tear in his right knee at the Southwest German Center for Sports Traumatology in Baden Wurttemberg, Germany, under the supervision of orthopedic Dr. DimitrAlexander Jontschew.

Lafferty also said that he and Obiena won’t be commenting on the Philippine Olympic Committee officially declaring Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association (Patafa) President Philip Ella Juico persona non grata on Wednesday.

“The ongoing issues vis-a-vis Patafa don’t help,” said the Dubaibased Lafferty.

Lafferty bared that the Asian Indoor Athletics Championships in Nur Sultan scheduled for February 11 to 13 was postponed because of political issues in Kazakhstan. He said Obiena will instead be competing on February 4 in the ISTAF Indoor Athletics tournament in Berlin.

Obiena is presently training in Padova, Italy, with his Ukrainian Coach Vitaly Petrov. Josef Ramos converted into a probation period from June onward so they would have the chance to find new employment for the 2022-23 season.

Proof of vaccination or a recent recovery from a virus infection is needed in Germany for entry to restaurants or other public places. AP

Fifa links more World Cups to averting migrant deaths at sea

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ENEVA—Fifa President Gianni Infantino linked his plan for biennial World Cups on Wednesday to giving more hope to Africans who risk their lives crossing the sea to Europe.

In a speech to European lawmakers, Infantino said soccer was being dominated by the few who “have everything” and it needed to be more global and inclusive.

“We need to find ways to include the entire world, to give hope to

Africans so that they don’t need to cross the Mediterranean in order to find, maybe, a better life but more probably death in the sea,” Infantino told the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe at Strasbourg, France.

He spoke on the day Spanish authorities said at least 18 people died and more than 300 were rescued from several boats trying to reach the Canary Islands from North Africa.

“We need to give dignity, not by giving charity but by allowing the rest of the world as well to participate,” Infantino told lawmakers at a session he attended with Arsène Wenger, Fifa’s director of global development.

Fifa and Wenger have been strongly resisted across European soccer since launching a formal proposal in September to organize men’s and women’s World Cups every two years instead of four. AP

B8 Friday, January 28, 2022

Motoring BusinessMirror

Editor: Tet Andolong

Ford reveals the all-new Ranger A Story & by Randy S. Peregrino

FTER releasing teasers to the delight of the enthusiasts, Ford finally revealed the most innovative, most versatile, and most capable all-new Ranger.

Featuring a defined new grille, and signature C-clamp headlight treatment at the front.

Taillights are designed in harmony with the signature graphics on the front.

During the recently concluded regional online event, the American automaker also revealed how they collaborated with customers around the globe. The aim was to create a vehicle and ownership experience that nextgen Ranger owners can rely on for their businesses, family lives, and adventure.

“With Ranger, we’ve had a big extended family for decades,” said Jim Farley, president, and CEO. “This truck has always been a trusted partner to small business owners, farmers, families, adventurers, commercial fleets, and so many more in more than 180 markets around the world. And with the new Ranger, this is our moment to deliver. Not just a product our customers will love, but an always-on experience that will help us build strong and lasting relationships with them.

This is the midsize truck people will want to own and experience.”

New look, new capabilities

Visually, the next-generation Ranger is

Ford Philippines

bold and confident, with a purposeful exterior that shares Ford’s global truck design DNA. The design features a defined new grille and signature C-clamp headlight treatment at the front, while a subtle shoulder line down the sides incorporates bolder wheel-arches that give Ranger a sure-footed stance. For the first time, Ford Ranger offers matrix LED headlights.

At the back, the taillights are designed in harmony with the signature graphics on the front.

Beneath the new bodywork is an upgraded chassis riding on a wheelbase 50mm longer and a track 50mm wider than the prior Ranger. A hydro-formed front-end structure creates more space in the engine bay for the new V6 engine and helps future-proof the Ranger for other propulsion technologies. It also opens up the front of the pickup to allow more airflow to the radiator, which helps keep running temperatures low when towing or carrying heavy loads.

Ford Philippines

Customer-focused interior features

Inside, the car-like cabin steps up, using premium soft-touch materials and prominent portrait-style center touchscreen with Ford’s signature SYNC®i 4 connectivity and entertainment system. The heart of the Ranger’s connective experience is the large 10.1-inch or 12-inch touchscreen in the center stack.

Additionally, there’s an embedded factoryfitted modem, allowing connectivity on the go when linked with the FordPass™ App so that customers can stay connected. FordPass enhances the ownership experience with features like remote start, vehicle status check, and remote lock and unlocks functions via your mobile device.

Many traditional driving mode controls have been moved to their dedicated display on the SYNC screen. The dedicated screen will display all off-road and drive modes with one button press, including driveline, steering angle, vehicle pitch and roll angles, and other controls. The screen also is linked to a 360-degree camera. In addition, there is control for the new exterior zone lighting system via the touchscreen or the FordPass App (software update capable).

There are also clever storage and valuable gadgets like smartphone wireless charging and a large center console bin to stash things.

In addition, the door pockets can carry more while the wide dash conceals an upper glove box, and there are storage bins under and behind the rear seats.

Powertrain choices, improved ride, and handling

Customers wanted a choice of more power

off-road. Interestingly, there is a choice for two 4x4 drive systems. One is an electronic shift-on-the-fly system, while the other is an advanced full-time 4x4 system with a reassuring set-and-forget mode.

Better access, more functional space

The car-like interior with a larger infotainment screen. Ford Philippines

and torque for towing heavy loads and extreme off-roading, so the team added Ford’s proven 3.0-L V6 turbodiesel and developed it for the Ranger. Also available are choices of proven Single-Turbo and the Bi-Turbo 2.0 inline four-cylinder diesel motors.

The Single Turbo comes in two different performance levels and delivers power, torque, and fuel economy. On the other hand, the Bi-Turbo engine is a more sophisticated performance option for more power while maintaining fuel economy. In addition, the next-gen Ranger will be available with a tried and tested 2.3-L EcoBoost four-cylinder gasoline engine. New transmission choices include an updated 10-speed auto or sixspeed manual, complementing the current six-speed automatic. Now, it is a question of what engine options will be offered in the Philippine market.

Ford engineers moved the front wheels forward by 50mm for a better approach angle and outboard for better off-road articulation. Also, rear suspension dampers were shifted in favor of a better ride both on- and

Big sales jump in 2021

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HERE is reason to rejoice as the industry rebounded tremendously in 2021. Amid the punishing pandemic, it recorded a 20-percent jump in sales. That’s easily a spectacular feat for the auto world and deserving of a champagne cork to pop out.

“That is no small feat, indeed,” said Rommel Gutierrez, the lawyer-president of Campi (Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc.).

The industry even gained a sales shot of 5.3 percent increase in December 2021, a yearend windup worthy yet of another celebration.

Indeed, if there’s one sector that courageously displayed toughness and determination to ride out the virus storm non-stop the last 24 months or so, it was the motoring segment. Easily, it saved thousands from losing their jobs as its manufacturing and services platforms never wavered one bit in persevering to plod on despite the perilous path ahead of the journey.

A joint report by the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (Campi) and Truck Manufacturers Associa-

tion (TMA) showed that total vehicle sales for December 2021 has reached 27,846 units.

That was a 5.3-percent increase compared to the 26,456 units recorded in the previous month.

Said Gutierrez: “Looking back at last year’s performance, the automotive industry has remained remarkably resilient. Our December sales was the best monthly sales performance since March 2020 even as the industry registered positive growths for four consecutive months.”

Translated into figures, last year’s 20-percent growth amounted to a whopping 268,488 units sold in 2021. Chest-beating, indeed, is in order.

Honda service

HONDA Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) has launched its “Service Homecoming Deals” for valued customers who have not visited their Honda dealer last year for preventive maintenance, Colene Jalalon reported.

Colene said customers have until January 31 to avail of discounts for periodic

Another new is an integrated side-step behind the rear tires for easy access to the rear bed. In addition, the Ranger team worked to ensure that a wider variety of cargo could fit and stay secure in the load box because it is now wider by 50mm. Additional thoughtful, customer-focused touches include a new, tough plastic-molded Bedliner, extra cargo tie-down points (on strong steel tube rails), durable/flexible load box caps around the sides of the box and across the tailgate to conceal structural attachment points for canopies and other aftermarket accessories.

In addition, Ranger offers a new cargo management system designed with dividers to hold various sized items. More so, there are ultra-strong spring-loaded cleats that clip into rails bolted to each side of the cargo box.

The tailgate can also double as a mobile workbench with an integrated ruler and clamp pockets. Zone lighting—controlled via the in-cabin SYNC screen or through the FordPass App—provides 360-degree lighting around the truck. Load box lighting is supplied under the left- and right-hand rails for that needed illumination while at work.

Beginning 2022, Ford will start manufacturing the next-generation Ranger in Thailand and South Africa plants. Specific market launch details, including the Philippines, will be announced in due course. maintenance packages.

Aside from a 20-percent discount on lubricants, general repair parts and fluids, and cabin disinfection service, another 50-percent cut awaits buyers of accessories, plus a buy-one-take-one promo on BR-V tires, and another 30-percent discount on air purifiers.

“Those affected by typhoon Odette in the Visayas and Mindanao may also avail on Honda’s ‘Honda Helps’ program with discounts of as high as 30 percent on parts and other services,” Colene said.

Lexus NX

THE three variants of the hybrid all-new Lexus NX will hit town shortly, with advance orders being accepted consistently at the Global City’s Lexus Manila.

Jade B. Sison said the NX 350 F Sport is pegged at P4,548,000, the NX 350h Premier at P4,488,000 and the NX 350h at P3,338,000.

They are powered by the A25A-FXS 2.5-liter inline-four engine with a high-output electric motor. The gasoline engine develops 190hp and 239Nm of torque, while the front and rear motor generators add 182hp and 54hp, respectively.

To learn more, visit the Lexus website at lexus.com.ph or Facebook and Instagram @ lexusmanila, or go to Lexus Remote page at https://fal.cn/3eSWW.

PEE STOP Kudos to Honda’s Lyka dela Cruz for her prompt response to the SOS of Dr. Nanding Lopez of Mangatarem, Pangasinan. Cheers, Lyka! Also to Insan Louie Soriano! Mabuhay kayo!