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Stakeholders highlight need to keep Epira, with some provisions revised

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Shakeup in energy sector

By Lenie Lectura

ixteen years since the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (Epira) of 2001 was enacted into law, industry stakeholders observed more private-sector involvement in the energy industry, ushering in new power projects that boosted the country’s power supply, ultimately benefiting consumers.

“Epira came in June 2001. Maybe, from the start, it was going slow. But from my personal observation, there’s a lot of power projects that came on stream for the last three or four years, [and] a lot of capacity still coming on stream.

Not bad at all, because it takes years to put to bed a power project,” Emmanuel de Dios, GE Philippines CEO and formerly Department of Energy (DOE) undersecretary, said in an interview.

Based on the 2016 Philippine Electricity demand-supply data from the DOE, there are 5,068 megawatts (MW) of committed power projects, some of which are currently under way, and some 18,225 MW of indicative power projects that could take off in the future.

AboitizPower President Antonio Moraza noted how Epira has helped improved the country’s power supply. “I think Epira has been very effective. The government is no longer guaranteeing take-or-pay contracts. It also has freed balance sheet so it can use resources for other areas of development. Prices have come down. We now have ample supply. Plants that were privatized have now been rehabilitated and now more efficient and reliable,” he said in a text message.

Mhryciw | Dreamstime.com

Continued on A2

18,225 MW The indicative capacity of power projects that could take off in the future

Tetangco’s last move to show his steady hand, but with surprises

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By Bianca Cuaresma

n June 22 the Monetary Board (MB) will be having its fourth monetary-policy meeting of the year, and while analysts and economists concur that the Central Bank will likely retain status quo on its monetary-policy stance on Thursday—as they have done since 2014— the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’s (BSP) next policy meeting is still being carefully watched by markets, as it will be outgoing Governor Amando M. Tetangco Jr.’s last MB meeting as Central Bank chief.

PESO exchange rates n US 49.5250

Singapore-based DBS Bank economist Gundy Cahyadi said the Central Bank governor’s last move is likely to maintain all policy rates on hold, owing largely to stable and within-target inflation over the policy horizon.

Cahyadi further said that while they revised their inflation forecasts to reflect slightly higher numbers at 3.2 percent for both this year and the next—from 2.8 percent and 3 percent, respectively—both are still well within the government’s target range of 2 percent to 4 percent.

The economist attributed the higher inflation outlook to increases in food and transport prices, and that transport inflation is set to rise further toward the year, plus the low-base effects in 2016.

Second-round effects are also expected from the increased levies under the tax-reform bill.

Cahyadi’s statement echoes the governor’s latest statements on monetary policy, saying the BSP need not match the pace of normalization of interest rates seen in the United States.

“There are idiosyncratic conditions that, of course, we have to take into account. I mean, there are many things like inflation; we are an inflation targeter, so that is the most important consideration for us. There was some deceleration in inflation rate for May, so we will take that into account. We will reestimate our inflation forecast when we meet again next week and see if there has been a change in Continued on A2

Tetangco

Abram Wainwright/Bloomberg

n japan 0.4465 n UK 63.1741 n HK 6.3481 n CHINA 7.2724 n singapore 35.7995 n australia 37.5201 n EU 55.2055 n SAUDI arabia 13.2081

Source: BSP (16 June 2017 )

NewsSunday BusinessMirror

A2 Sunday, June 18, 2017

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Shakeup in energy sector Continued from A1

The DOE said it continuously encourages investments in power generation in view of the increasing peak demand, which is expected to triple by 2040. In 2016 peak demand in Luzon hit 9,726 MW; the Visayas, 1,893 MW; and Mindanao, 1,653 MW. Based on projections, the country’s demand for energy will triple between 2016 and 2040.

Petroleum products are expected to continue to dominate the country’s final energy demand by 2040. From 13.9 million tons of oil equivalent (MTOE) in 2015, it is estimated to reach 40.5 MTOE by 2040, representing a threefold increase.

Electricity demand is, likewise, anticipated to grow four times from its 2015 level, while demand for other fuels, such as biomass, coal and natural gas, will only be minimal.

On a sectoral basis, the transport sector will have the highest demand in 2040, at 30.08 MTOE. As a likely result of the government’s push toward industrialization and urbanization, the energy demand for the industrial and residential sectors is projected to double, or even triple, by 2040. “When we talk about infrastructure, people fail to realize that energy is the blood of economic activity,” de Dios added.

The Manila Electric Co. (Meralco), for its part, is hoping that the strong investor appetite would continue in the many years to come.

Joe Zaldarriaga, the utility firm’s spokesman, said the Epira has encouraged competition, especially in the power-generation business. The law, he said, also increased efficiencies in distribution, as evidenced by all-time low system-loss levels. “If we look at it, further current retail rates approximate that of around eight years back, which, perhaps, shows that the market is working as it is,” he said in an e-mail reply.

Aside from all-time low losses, Meralco also noted the frequency and duration of outages are also at record lows, and there is more innovation in the power sector. “All the while, strong load growth is also being supported by private-sector investments.

We do hope that the environment will continue to improve by encouraging more investments and further increase the efficiency in the power industry for the benefit of consumers.”

oil industry and renewable-energy industries are also in need of timely restructuring courtesy of legislative action,” he said.

A review will involve maintaining efficient working relationships with key stakeholders, Cusi stressed. As such, his office must also closely liaise and work with Congress in pursuit of a relevant legislative agenda aimed at improving the energy sector.

“It must be emphasized that a lot of the DOE’s strategies are hinged on the action of Congress, such as the introduction of new legislation or amendments to existing legislation, and also the approval of the agencies’ respective budgets,” he said.

Energy efficiency and conservation, natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas and declaring energy projects as “projects of national significance”, are particular areas of concern that are in need of urgent legislation right now, Cusi said.

Energy Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi said last week there is a need to review existing laws, such as the Epira and those concerning the downstream oil industry and renewable-energy sector.

He stressed that Epira need not be amended, but only undergo a review for a more effective implementation of the law that once promised healthy competition, with hopes that Philippine electricity rates would be one of the lowest in the region someday.

“The Epira, the downstream

The proposed review is also meant to correct the delays in the implementation of some of the segments under Epira.

“Some are delayed, but these are now being scheduled. We have identified the causes of delay and we are now working on how to speed up the implementation,” Energy Undersecretary Felix William B. Fuentebella said.

“Indeed, supply has improved.

Price has gone down. There are more players so the price of electricity is becoming more competi-

Review

Delays

tive. In general, the goal is being achieved, but there are some delays,” Cusi noted.

One of the delays they were referring to is the implementation of the Retail Competition and Open Access (RCOA), a landmark policy meant to give consumers the choice to choose their own supplier of electricity to encourage competition in the generation and supply sector.

“Epira is incomplete without RCOA,” Fuentebella said. He could not stress enough how vital this policy is in order for consumers to fully appreciate the benefits of Epira.

It can be recalled that the Supreme Court (SC) issued on February 21 a temporary restraining order (TRO) against a DOE circular and Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) resolutions days before when some of the RCOA rules were supposed to take effect.

In particular, power users consuming an average of at 1 MW per month are required to source power from a licensed retail-electricity supplier (RES). At present the majority of power consumers are being supplied by Meralco, the country’s largest distribution-utility (DU) firm.

The petition for a TRO was sought by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, San Beda College Alabang Inc., Ateneo de Manila University and Riverbanks Development Corp. They pointed out that the Epira does not call for a mandatory switch for customers to purchase their electricity from a DU to a RES. Senate Committee on Energy Chairman Sherwin T. Gatchalian will seek the legal opinion of the Joint Congressional Power Commission (JCPC) so this can be used to establish the legality of RCOA during hearings at the SC. Gatchalian said a legal opinion would “give a lot of weight to the arguments raised on RCOA”.

“From the consumer standpoint, it’s a very negative position.

The power sector was privatized thinking in the end that consumers would have the power of choice.

But this didn’t happen because it was stalled. And because of this, only the power generators benefited from it,” Gatchalian said.

He said the Senate would initiate the move by recommending the issuance of a legal opinion.

“The Senate will trigger it. Now, we will give a memo to JCPC to study and if it finds merit then that will be an official resolution from JCPC,” the senator said.

Hopefully, this will be in place within the month, Gatchalian added.

AC Energy, the power arm of conglomerate Ayala Corp., said Epira has demonstrated how open competition helps lower power prices.

However, “Epira should be fully implemented soon, especially the WESM [Wholesale Electricity Spot Market] in Mindanao and RCOA at the household level,” AC Energy President John Eric Francia said.

The spot market in Mindanao would be launched this month, but the start of commercial operation has yet to be declared.

Fuentebella also noted a delay in the transfer of WESM to an independent market operator (IMO).

Under Epira, the Philippine Electricity Market Corp. (PEMC), operator of WESM, must be transformed into an IMO one year after WESM was launched in June 2006.

So far, PEMC has existed for 11 years now.

The transfer of the WESM to the IMO is also meant to dispel concerns of continuing government intervention at the WESM.

Currently, the PEMC Board is a 15-man body made up of representatives from each sector of the electric power industry, as well as independent members. The PEMC Board is chaired by the energy secretary until the transition to the IMO. Based on a draft DOE circular, the composition of the seven-member IMO board includes an economist, academic, finance person, lawyer, engineer, governance member and the president of the IMO. Semirara Mining and Power Corp. CEO Isidro Consunji shared the same view, saying some of the goals in the Epira “cannot be felt now”.

Though he agreed that the generation companies operate better now, he noted some aspects in the power sector that still need improvement. “Regulatory bodies [like the] Energy Regulatory Commission [are] not stable, electricity prices yet [to be] optimized due to effect of take-or-pay contracts still in effect, SPUG [small power utilities group] areas need accelerated program of development,” Consunji said.

Gatchalian agreed. He noted “instability within the regulator.”

Challenges

The DOE cited numerous challenges that could be encountered

in meeting the agency’s target additional power capacity of 43,765 MW by 2040.

“All these ambitious energy plans are not without their share of challenges that delay or prevent their fruition,” Cusi said.

Some of the pressing roadblocks to DOE’s aspirations include the following:

n Ensuring energy security, reliability and reasonably priced energy;

n Passage of energy-related bills (e.g. energy projects as projects of national significance, energy efficiency and conservation, etc.);

n Harmonization of laws/policies;

n Social acceptability of energy resources or technologies; and

n Energy resource development hindered by transnational/ geographical boundaries.

“With tenacity and consistency in adhering to all these wellconsidered plans and road maps, we will prevail against the usual bane of ningas-cogon, or the habit of habit of starting out a task (with overwhelming enthusiasm but leaving it half-done) mediocrity and shortsightedness, and prove capable of achieving the long-term energy objectives of the country for the benefit of the present and future generations of Filipinos,” Cusi said.

One way to address the delays in some aspects of Epira, the DOE has formally proposed to Malacañang the issuance of an executive order (EO) that will declare energy-related facilities as projects of national significance.

“Permitting takes a lot of time. So, we asked that an EO be issued to declare power projects, not just [as] power plants,[but] as [projects with] national significance,” Cusi said.

According to Gatchalian, it takes 1,340 days to secure a permit, 359 signatures for the permits to be signed, and involves 74 different agencies, including the DOE, which is only 10 percent of the entire process.

“So that’s the amount of complexity. This is only predevelopment stage, which is apart from building the power plant,” Gatchlian said.

Hopefully, the government can overcome these challenges so consumers can immediately feel all the gains that should be achieved through the implementation of Epira.

Tetangco’s last move to show his steady hand, but with surprises Continued from A1

overall conditions and whether a change in the policy stance will be needed,” Tetangco said in a recent interview with reporters.

“But at this point in time, we are just monitoring developments in all the relevant sectors,” he added.

Cahyadi also pointed out that while inflation has been running within radar, another reason Tetangco refuses to pull the trigger on higher interest rates even if the BSP is “slightly behind the curve in normalizing its monetary policy”, is that the outgoing BSP chief is waiting for the transition of leadership in the Central Bank.

“We reckon that rate hikes may have been delayed due to the imminent change in the BSP leadership,” Cahyadi said. “Given that he is a career central banker, expect a smooth transition.”

Thus, the Singapore-based economist said rate hikes are imminent under the next BSP governor and current deputy governor for the Supervision and Examination Sector, Nestor Espenilla Jr., due to upside risks to inflation.

“Given the aggressive infrastructure overhaul, there is need to manage overheating risks in the

economy,” he added.

Local economist Emilio Neri Jr. from Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) also said the BSP is likely to keep monetary-policy rates steady on June 22, reflective of how the outgoing BSP governor managed the country’s monetary-policy stance to a status of stability.

“In terms of monetary policy, we believe current policy settings will be maintained to demonstrate how sound policies have been kept for the last three years, indicating how stable the Philippine financial system has become under his watch,” Neri said.

Tetangco, however, will not go out without a bang, as the MB chairman is seen to introduce banking-system innovations toward his last days as BSP chief.

“It is possible that the MB will announce the introduction of some reforms that will enhance capitalmarket development, possibly allowing banks to engage in more financial innovation,” Neri said in a response to the BusinessMirror’s query.

This final reform should be symbolic of Tetangco’s openness to adopt leading practices in central banking during his 12-year leadership.

In their last meeting in May, the BSP governor decided to maintain the interest rate on the BSP’s overnight reverse repurchase facility at 3 percent, with the corresponding interest rates on the overnight lending and deposit facilities also kept unchanged.

The BSP also maintained its inflation forecasts at 3.4 percent for this year and 3 percent for 2018.

Tetangco is scheduled to step down in July this year after serving two consecutive terms as BSP governor—the only BSP chief to do so.

He was appointed governor in 2005 by then-President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, and was reappointed in 2011 by then-President Benigno S. Aquino III. A fellow career central banker, Espenilla, who currently heads the supervision and examination sector, will take over his post.

Tetangco is a world-renowned BSP governor recognized by NewYork-based Global Finance magazine as one of the world’s best central bankers and was graded “A” for eight years.

He was also recently awarded a Lifetime Leadership Achievement award by international financial publication The Asian Banker.

A BusinessMirror Special Feature

FATHER’S DAY Sunday, June 18, 2017

www.businessmirror.com.ph

1977, BEAUTIFUL

(Editor’s note: On November 4, 1977, social-development figure Brian Tenorio’s father, Nemesio Tenorio, wrote a lovely letter of endearment on behalf of his first-child Brian, who was then still a baby. At once longing and poignant, the letter evokes a portrait of a doting father, a wistful affection for the past and a youth spent against the backdrop of a looming civil war in Iran, where the

family had lived before the country eventually flushed out foreigners.)

My dear, By this time, you must already be aware of my existence. You certainly have read some of my statistics, a few of those nice traits I have inherited, those tantrums and the

likes that mommy is noticing in me.

However, there are much more that you probably want to know firsthand, like face-to-face meeting to satisfy your curiosity. This could possibly be forthcoming early next year. The meeting will surely result to long discussions and arguments as to what part of me is from whom.

A passport-size photo of me is enclosed herewith to at least satisfy a little of your curiosity. I only regret that it is not in color to give you a three-dimensional view of the upper portion of my body. So stop here and take a very long look at the picture facing you.

Don’t be misled that I look like a Korean baby rather than a Filipino. The fact is, mommy, daddy and the photographer had a hard time waking me up from my very sound sleep to get this picture. I was so horrified and confused to wake up in unfamiliar surroundings. I went back to sleep right after that ceremony. Now, try to recollect how Daddy and Mommy look the last time you have seen them. Have you identified any familiar feature that

was passed from them to me? Everyone would have stated the word “pogi” and I am very sure it would be meant for me. They say that I have very dark brown eyes; some say it is near blue/black, which set my daddy to some thinking and taking a very hard look at my eyes.

Surely we did not know what his opinions were as he never gave his comments to anyone in particular.

Friends here had further stated that a lot of women would cry on my shoulders someday. I am not trying to magnify whatever had been said about me, nor am I trying to lift my own bench, but, surely you must see me to believe what have been said about me.

Being “pogi” is really something like being kissed by beautiful women, especially to mommy’s women friends. Frankly, I was recently paired to a cute, talented little girl of 5, my Ate Bong-Bong.

Of course, it was only a joke. But that little remark shook her off and blushed from embarrassment and that had excluded herself immediately from the group. To me, there’s no age barrier for two people in love provided they love each other.

Do you believe in this? Well, if you are still single, then wait for me and you won’t regret it because I do own a pair of loving eyes and very

generous at heart. I guess for you, it would just be a matter of turning their eyes left or right for their prospective prince charming.

Well, since my first letter to you, I have gained weight (now 5 kilos) and a height of 5 cm. and a bit chubbier in some parts of my body. I do eat a lot more and with rice cereal mixed with my milk, drinks orange juice and those hated vitamins that No. 2 forces into my mouth. Nowadays, I am up by 4 in the morning, waiting for No. 3 to wake up and do his daily routine. At times I follow his movements through the corners of my eyes. Would you believe that No. 3 does his task expertly and without supervision of No. 2? And do you know what he is doing by then? On week days, he wakes up at 4:20 in the morning, takes a stick of his cigarette and, puffing away, he goes to the kitchen.

In there, he beats an egg into the frying pan, slice the cheese and bread, takes out the waxed paper and sliced ham and spread them on the kitchen table. From these, he wraps three sandwiches for his lunch. Next is mommy’s breakfast, and by 6:30 he’s off to work. While he is doing all of these things, he is drinking his coffee and puffing on his cigarette with both eyes half-open.

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How he did these is still unknown to me. You should see him go to the “Johns” and pray for Allah’s blessings! After he had taken his shower, his face then begins to ring a bell on me, the familiar face of No. 3!

Things seem to be alright with daddy and mommy as they are all smiles whenever I am awake and playing with them and tickled pink whenever I happened to show them my rare smiles. You should hear their gibberish dialect when talking to me and their funny faces.

Finally, I’d like you to know that my dear mommy is longing for some letters, news and some “gossips” from you people. She always complains to daddy that she hasn’t received any letter for quite some time. Daddy just told mommy to just wait and have a little more patience.

Boy did I overdo this letter again? I do hope you write to my “subjects” to cheer them up. As early as now, my daddy and mommy join me in greeting you a Merry Christmas and a very prosperous New Year.

With love from my little heart, Little Ian About the contributor: Brian Tenorio (www.briantenorio.com) is a designer, entrepreneur and Chair of Philippine LGBT Chamber of Commerce.

WORLD’S MOST POWERFUL SUPERFRUIT PAYS TRIBUTE TO THE SUPER HERO OF OUR LIVES

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IDN’T the voice over say, “… faster than a speeding bullet, able to fly high up in the sky”?

“It’s a plane, it’s a bird, no, it’s…it’s super dad!” In the eyes of the child, Daddy, Papa, Tatay reigns supreme over all. He can do anything! He’s got super-strength to lift heavy objects, super-vision to see what good or naughty stuff his son or daughter is up to, superhearing to hear the faintest cry for help of his child, super-memory too, always remembering birthdays, graduation day and other important dates. Best of all, a father also has that special power that lets him read minds, like if his son or daughter lies, is making up excuses, needs allowance money, or is frightened by the thunderstorm or simply wants to be cuddled, comforted after waking up from a bad dream. His super hero instinct keeps him in touch especially when his child is going through some difficult times.

Daddy the superhero is here, there and practically everywhere—a busy body, trying to save the day! He multitasks all in a day’s work! But even superheroes get tired too. They need nourishment, nutrients to keep them energized, to stay active, alert, strong 24/7, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Our beloved superhero needs his daily dose of superfruit that’s got the most powerful, superior anti-oxidants to expel the most odious pollutants, obnoxious toxins and poisonous free radicals that harm the body and the environment. Organique Acai Berry Premium Blend contains pure acai berry harvested from the Amazon rainforests of Brazil and is exclusively distributed by Organique Inc. Organique products are available in Mercury Drug stores and other leading drugstores and supermarkets.

Let him enjoy a moment of peace, sipping a shotglass of Organique Acai Berry Premium Blend or as a cooling smoothie each day before breakfast to keep our hero’s immunity level at a high level, his senses alert and his physique youthful and robust. (*For other delish

recipes to delight your super hero, log on to www.organique.ph, tel. 8052684.)

The guardian of the family, this side of the galaxy needs to be ablebodied, healthy and invincible to take on the daily mental and physical challenges. Father’s Day may well be called Super Hero day because Tatay, Papa, Daddy is and will always be a super hero in our hearts.

As the caped crusader does it again, accomplishing impossible tasks for the love of his family – all in a day’s work. It’s wonderful to know that the world’s superfruit, superbrand, USDA approved Organique Acai Berry Premium Blend is always ready to keep him healthy, active and strong to keep up with the demands of work, sustained energy level for leisure time with the whole family.

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The World BusinessMirror

Sunday, June 18, 2017

www.businessmirror.com.ph

New US carrier hobbled by flaws in launching and landing planes

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he newest and costliest US aircraft carrier, praised by President Donald J. Trump and delivered to the Navy on May 31 with fanfare, has been dogged by trouble with fundamentals: launching jets from its deck and catching them when they land.

Now, it turns out that the system used to capture jets landing on the USS Gerald R. Ford ballooned in cost, tripling to $961 million from $301 million, according to Navy documents obtained by Bloomberg News.

While the Navy says the landing system has been fixed, the next-generation carrier built by Huntington Ingalls Industries Inc. still hasn’t been cleared to launch F/A-18 jets carrying a full complement of fuel tanks under their wings, a handicap that could limit their effectiveness in combat.

The twin issues underscore the technical and cost challenges for the planned threeship, $42-billion Ford class of carriers that is drawing increased congressional scrutiny.

The Navy and Trump want to increase the carrier fleet from 11 authorized by law to 12.

Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman John McCain has long criticized the Navy’s management of the Ford program and joined a congressional effort that capped funding for the Ford at $12.9 billion and for a second ship under construction, the John F. Kennedy, at $11.4 billion. He’s likely to grill Navy officials about the newly disclosed landing system costs and troubled launch system during a hearing on Thursday on the Navy budget.

General atomics

People walk to a church to say a prayer near the baseball field, the scene of a multiple shooting in Alexandria, Virginia, on Wednesday. A rifle-wielding attacker opened fire on Republican lawmakers at a congressional baseball practice, wounding House GOP Whip Steve Scalise of Louisiana and several others as congressmen and aides dove for cover. AP

Shooting is latest eruption in grim ritual of rage, blame

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he violence has come regularly for years, in one politically charged spasm after another.

A member of Congress shot through the head in Tucson, Arizona.

Assaults on the Holocaust Museum, a Planned Parenthood office and the Family Research Council, a socially conservative group. Gunmen targeting black churchgoers in South Carolina, Indian immigrants in Kansas and police officers in New York and Texas.

The attempted slaughter of Republican lawmakers on a baseball diamond outside Washington was less an aberration than the latest example of a grim trend, widely remarked upon by leaders in both parties, but never slowed or stopped.

And with lawmakers, legislative aides and Capitol police officers hospitalized on Wednesday, a process of mourning and recrimination unfolded as a kind of familiar ritual, with a somber statement from the president and bipartisan denunciations of violence quickly giving way to finger-pointing and blame on social media.

Even high-level gestures of conciliation, including from President Donald J. Trump and Sen. Bernie Sanders, did little to blunt the sense that America’s civic culture is consumed with anger and breaking down—though mental illness sometimes makes it impossible to say exactly what leads to violence.

To survivors of past attacks, the shooting in Virginia—perpetrated

by a 66-year-old former Sanders supporter who expressed rage over Trump’s presidency—came as a sign that the worst might still be ahead.

Former Sen. John C. Danforth, Republican-Montana, said the violence ref lected a contagion in America’s political culture, in which adversaries were treated as “people to be destroyed”. He said Trump and Democratic leaders, as well as the news media, all deserved blame.

“We are inundated by rage,” Danforth, who is an ordained min-

ister, said in an interview. “It’s not just practicing politicians. It’s the demand from the base of the two parties, and it is in large part encouraged by the media.”

Danforth, 80, issued a searing rebuke to his own party in 2015, after the suicide of a state officeholder, Thomas Schweich, who had been the target of brutal personal attacks. In a eulogy Danforth warned, “Words can kill.”

But he acknowledged ruefully on Wednesday that practitioners of that brand of politics seldom paid a price for it.

“It apparently works,” he said.

“It wins elections, wins ratings.”

Ron Barber, a former aide to Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, DemocratArizona, who was wounded in the 2011 shooting that nearly killed her, and then briefly replaced her in Congress, said Wednesday’s attack brought back “terrible memories” for him. After his own election in 2012, Barber recalled, people left messages at his office threatening to punch or kill him.

“Fast-forward to 2017, and I’m sorry to say, it gets worse,” said Barber, a Democrat. “What happened in 2016 was a presidential campaign that I think really ramped up the anger and vulgarities that we see directed at members of Congress.”

That toxicity does not emanate only from politicians, Barber said.

We are inundated by rage…. It’s not just practicing politicians.

It’s the demand from the base of the two parties, and it is in large part encouraged by the media.”

—Danforth

“I am on Facebook and I see things there that I couldn’t imagine anyone saying about another person,” he said. “We’ve seen an increase in racism, anti-Semitism, homophobia. It’s time for all our leaders, from the president on down, to say, ‘Stop’.”

Voters on the left and the right described themselves as shaken and fearful of what might happen next. Among conservatives, the shooting appeared to confirm a belief that liberal opposition to Trump had taken a sinister turn, veering into outright violence. For liberals, the attack stirred concern about the potential for extremism on the left, and deepened a sense— dating from Barack Obama’s presidency—that ordinary partisan conflicts had taken on more menacing overtones.

In Fairhope, A labama, B.J. Middleton, a retired police officer, said the explosive political atmosphere recalled the time of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination in 1968. Middleton, 78, who supports Trump, said he increasingly feared “violence coming from the left”.

“I was there for the riots and what happened to Dr. King, and I’ll tell you, it feels like we’re building toward something again,” Middleton said. Kayla Winner-Connor, a graduate student in Los Angeles, said she was dismayed but not surprised by Wednesday’s violence.

“I hate to say that—w ever ything we’re hearing seems really extreme and it has been polarized for a while, but now it is dangerous,” said WinnerConnor, who said she was not a supporter of Trump. She added, “His agenda feels so wrong and I feel an emotionally charged response, but this is spawning some extreme reactions.”

New York Times News Service

The surge in costs for the development phase of the advanced arresting gear—built by General Atomics to catch planes landing— was borne by the Navy under terms of that contract. In addition, the program acquisition costs of the three systems built so far more than doubled to $532 million each from $226 million, an increase which must be paid by closely held General Atomics.

General Atomics Spokesman Meghan Ehlke referred all questions to the Navy “per our contract”. Captain Thurraya Kent, a Navy spokesman, said the contractor forfeited all bonus fees it could have made during the 2009 to 2016 development phase and the service is reviewing the company’s master schedule for the John F. Kennedy weekly.

The Navy also has placed personnel at the company’s facility in Rancho Bernardo, California, to monitor progress.

The Navy reported the cost increase to Congress last month because it breached thresholds established under a 1982 law for major weapons systems. It’s separate from the 22-percent increase since 2010 for

construction of the carrier, which resulted in Congress imposing the $12.9-billion cost cap.

Trump, who has repeatedly complained about the high cost of major weapons systems—and then taken credit for reining them in—did that in a Coast Guard commencement address on May 17. The Ford “had a little bit of an overrun problem before I got here, you know that. Still going to have an overrun problem; we came in when it was finished, but we’re going to save some good money.”

‘It’s no good’

Trump said, “When we build the new aircraft carriers, they’re going to be built under budget and ahead of schedule, just remember that.” Still, the Government Accountability Office said in a new report on Tuesday that the John F. Kennedy’s cost estimate “is not reliable and does not address lessons learned” from the Ford’s performance.

Trump scoffed at the carrier’s troubled electromagnetic launch system in a Time magazine interview last month, saying it doesn’t work and “you have to be Albert Einstein to figure it out.” Saying the Navy should stick with an old-fashioned steamdriven catapult, he added, “The digital costs hundreds of millions of dollars more money and it’s no good.”

Until the catapult problem, which was discovered in 2014, is resolved it limits how much combat fuel can be carried in planes being launched from the carrier’s deck.

That “would preclude normal employment” of the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and the radar-jamming Growler version because “the aircraft are limited in the types of missions that they can accomplish” without added under-wing fuel tanks, Army Lt. Col. Roger Cabiness, spokesman for the Pentagon’s testing office, said in an e-mail. He said the Navy asserts that testing on the ground has solved a software flaw that caused excessive vibrations of those fuel tanks.

“The Navy estimates the software problem will be resolved and software updates incorporated” on the carrier for testing at sea during the vessel’s postshakedown phase between May and November of 2018, Michael Land, spokesman for the Naval Air Systems Command, said in an e-mail. He said actual launches of jets with wing tanks will follow in 2019.

The Navy still has time to fix the catapult issue. Though the Ford has been delivered, the ship is not scheduled to be declared ready for operations until 2020, with first actual deployment planned for about 2022, according to Kent. Bloomberg News

Qatar signs $12-billion deal for F-15 jets amid Gulf crisis

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atar will sign a deal to buy as many as 36 F-15 jets from the US as the two countries navigate tensions over President Donald J. Trump’s backing for a Saudi-led coalition’s move to isolate the country for supporting terrorism.

Qatari Defense Minister Khalid AlAttiyah and his US counterpart, Jim Mattis, completed the $12-billion agreement on Wednesday in Washington, according to the Pentagon.

The sale “will give Qatar a state-ofthe-art capability and increase security cooperation and interoperability between the United States and Qatar,” the Defense department said in a news statement.

Congress last year approved a sale of as many as 72 F-15s in an agreement valued at as much as $21 billion, providing authorization for the deal completed on Wednesday. But that was before Qatar’s neighbors, including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, severed diplomatic, trade and transport links last week in a move they said was aimed at isolating the country for its support of terrorist groups and Iran.

The F-15 sale highlights the complex position the Trump administration finds itself in, forced to balance its focus on fighting terrorism against regional rivalries between key allies. Qatar hosts the regional headquarters for US Central Command, which includes a state-ofthe-art air base the US depends on to target Islamic State.

Decision ‘confusing’

“It is confusing, and the worst thing you want to do in a heated, delicate situation like this is to give mixed messages,”

Paul Sullivan, a Middle East specialist at Georgetown University in Washington, said of the Pentagon announcement.

Qatar’s Defense Ministry said the deal would create 60,000 jobs in 42 US states while reducing the burden on US forces.

The F-15 accord will lead to “closer strategic collaboration in our fight to counter violent extremism and promote peace and stability in our region and beyond,” the ministry said.

After the Gulf countries moved against Qatar, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson initially declined to take sides in the crisis, but his cautious stance was overshadowed almost immediately by Trump, who sent a series of tweets that appeared to take credit for and praise the decision.

The US position was further muddied last Friday, when Tillerson called on Saudi Arabia to ease the blockade, only to have Trump, at a White House news conference hours later, say the move had been the right one.

“The nation of Qatar, unfortunately, has historically been a funder of terrorism at a very high level,” Trump said in a speech at the White House last week. “We ask Qatar, and other nations in the region to do more and do it faster.”

Tillerson has since sought to mediate the dispute from Washington, meeting with Saudi Arabia’s foreign minister on Monday. He was scheduled to meet the foreign minister of the UAE—another member of the Saudi coalition—for dinner Wednesday night.

“I would characterize the mood and the approach to that as being one that is hopeful, that believes that the worst is behind us,” State Department Spokesman Heather Nauert said on Tuesday. Bloomberg News

Sports BusinessMirror

Editor: Jun Lomibao | mirror_sports@yahoo.com.ph

Sunday, June 18, 2017

A5

RUSSIA MAKES PROGRESS ON RACISM IN FOOTBALL M

OSCOW—Russia has made progress fighting soccer racism ahead of next year’s World Cup, but players, coaches and fans still risk abuse, a new report says.

There were 89 racist and far-right incidents at Russian games in the 2016-2017 season, slightly below the two previous seasons, according to Thursday’s report by European antidiscrimination group FARE and Russiabased SOVA. In one case, an African player complained of racist abuse by an opponent during a Russian Premier League (RPL) game. In another case, a hardline fan group segregated part of a stadium for people of “Slavic appearance”, the report alleges. Fans of Russian champion Spartak Moscow, flew anti-Semitic banners.

The Russian Football Union’s (RFU) disciplinary committee, however, has said it didn’t detect a single racist incident in any of the top 3 divisions this season.

The report comes ahead of the Confederations Cup, starting Saturday, and a year ahead of the World Cup. “The Russian football authorities and the government authorities have realized...the way both of these competitions will be tarnished by the fear of

racism occurring and they’ve taken some quite strong measures,” FARE’s Executive Director Piara Powar told The Associated Press in a telephone interview. “There still remains the danger of some isolated incidents taking place.”

Russian authorities have taken measures to blacklist at least 191 fans from attending sports events, while the RFU ejected an influential fan leader, Alexander Shprygin, from its organization. He was deported twice from France last year following violence around Russia’s match with England at the European Championship, and has been accused of posting far-right symbols on social media, a charge he denied.

Shprygin was dragged out of a bathroom at an RFU conference in September by police and detained, reportedly in connection with an investigation into fan violence.

Panama’s Roman Torres is congratulated by his teammate, Anibal Godoy, after scoring against Honduras during a 2018 Russia World Cup qualifying match at the Rommel Fernandez Stadium in Panama City recently. AP

FARE says Russia has made some progress, and that it didn’t observe monkey chants or openly Nazi flags in any top-flight games this season. However, it warns far-right fans, instead, fly banners with concealed messages, such as runes and number codes used by Nazi and ultranationalist groups.

The RFU punished two clubs in the 2015-2016 season for such banners, but didn’t pursue any such cases this season—something which Powar says indicates it may be “turning a blind eye”.

That was despite cases of anti-Semitic banners being flown by Spartak fans, including taunts aimed at rival CSKA Moscow, whose club president and then-coach are both Jewish. Another Spartak banner showed a Russian rock singer caricaturized as an Orthodox Jew, accompanied by personal abuse.

CSKA fans also targeted their own coach, Leonid Slutsky—now at England’s Hull City—with a banner linking his Jewish faith to poor results.

FARE says the number of violent racist incidents fell from five to two last season compared to the year before.

There was also no repeat of large-scale violent attacks on foreign

fans, such as those which took place between Russian and English fans in Marseille a year ago during the European Championship.

However, there are indications that football-related violence between different ethnic groups in Russia is becoming more entrenched, with fans from Russia’s largely Muslim regions in the North Caucasus forming “fan groups which adopt football hooligans’ rules and initiate fights with Moscow teams”.

In another case last month at a playoff game for a place in the RPL, one fan group from the Yenisei Krasnoyarsk team issued a statement on social media saying that its sector of the stadium was only available to fans of “Slavic appearance”.

A member of the group, Artyom Kirillov, suggested the group had been misunderstood. “A lot was made up” in local media reports of the incident, he told the AP. “We are loyal to all Russian citizens.”

The International Football Federation said on Wednesday that Confederations Cup games will use a three-stage process in the event of fan racism. Referees will first request a public announcement, then suspend the game if the behavior doesn’t stop. If racist incidents still persist, they can stop the game. AP

Global takes on Ilocos United

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LOBAL Cebu seeks to get its winning ways back when it visits Ilocos United in the Philippines Football League tonight at the Quirino Stadium in Vigan City.

The Cebuanos tangle with the Ilocanos at 7 p.m. Cellar dwellers Stallion Laguna and Davao Aguilas, meanwhile, square off in a battle of winless teams at a 4 p.m. in Biñan City.

Global Coach Marjo Allado had to go back to the drawing board during the week-long international break, trying to figure out how his team could bounce back from a 0-1 loss to Ceres Negros during the Visayas Clasico at the Pana-ad Football Stadium in Bacolod City.

The Cebu team also kissed its Asean Zone Semifinals of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Cup campaign good-bye after yielding to Singaporean club, Home United, 2-3, at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore.

Leading Global’s charge are skipper Misagh Bahadoran, defender Amani Aguinaldo, goalkeeper Patrick Deyto,

Dennis Villanueva and Nicholas O’Donnel, all members of the men’s national team that scored a convincing 4-3 win over Tajikistan

in the AFC Asian Cup Jordan 2019 Qualifiers. Global is running fourth with seven points on two wins against a loss and a draw.

Ilocos United, Stallion Laguna and Davao Aguilas each has one point after three losses and a draw. Lance Agcaoili

‘CULTURE OF FEAR’ IN BRITAIN CYCLING L

ONDON—British cyclists operated within a corrosive culture of fear where inappropriate behavior was tolerated by a leadership focused on maintaining the country’s Olympic dominance, a panel reported Wednesday.

The investigation exposed the toll on the welfare of cyclists due to failings by a leadership, which delivered 12 medals on the track at the Rio de Janeiro Olympics. Cycling has formed the bedrock of Britain’s emergence as an Olympic power over the last two decades, with the country surging to second in the medal standings last year.

UK Sport, the government-funded agency, has been found to have failed to act on warning signs about the behavioral issues. A previously secret British Cycling report after the 2012 London Olympics concluded there was a “culture of fear and bullying” within an “autocratic leadership”.

“The central pursuit of medals and derived National Lottery funding from UK Sport meant that the addressing of cultural and behavioral issues in the WCP [world-class program], which were known since late 2012 was not prioritized,” the new review into the “climate and culture” in British Cycling states.

UK Sport Chief Executive Liz Nicholl said the agency would be “more inquisitive” in the future.

“Any suggestion that UK Sport is about a ‘winning at all costs’ approach is frankly disturbing and is wrong,” Nicholl said. “But we have to accept that there is now evidence of instances when the drive to be the best in the world and the drive to win medals may have contributed to some unacceptable behavior and culture in some world-class programs.”

Nicholl was speaking alongside report chairman, Annamarie Phelps, at the headquarters of UK Sport, which decides the level of funding for Olympic sports.

The report was prompted by claims by former rider Jess Varnish and other Olympians and Paralympians of sexism and bullying.

A “culture of fear” in the last Olympic period among staff and athletes, the report highlighted, created “an atmosphere of impunity, resulting on occasion in inappropriate behaviors

that had no place in a modern workplace”.

Shane Sutton, who quit last year as technical director following allegations of discrimination, was sharply criticized.

“SS did not operate in a way which was always appropriate for a modern workplace, even if highly pressurized and at the pinnacle

of international sporting competition,” the report said. “Furthermore, those descriptions again indicate that SS should not have been placed into a leading management position within the WCP without appropriate support, guidance and training also being put in place for him.”

The panel urged British Cycling to instigate a more collaborative working environment where athletes are empowered and not treated like children.

“We accept, in full, the recommendations in the [report] and apologize for where we have failed or fallen short of the standards which we should have achieved,” said Jonathan Browning, British Cycling’s recently appointed chairman. AP

CYCLING has formed the bedrock of Britain’s emergence as an Olympic power over the last two decades, with the country surging to second in the medal standings last year.

Ryan Ralston Santos in action.

Under-20 rugby team members named

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HE Philippine Rugby Football Union (PRFU) has announced its 17-man training roster for the upcoming Under-20 Asia Rugby Sevens Championships.

The Philippines will be competing against the heavyweights Japan, Hong Kong, Korea and Sri Lanka in the Asian tournament.

The U20 Sevens Program is aimed at developing the next batch of future Volcanoes to represent the Philippines on the international level. It is an opportunity for the youth to showcase their skill on the international scene.

“For the U20s, Dave Johnston and I are looking at the PRFU’s future. We want to see who can step up and match it with Asia’s best. Last year we sent a team of 18 year olds to compete at an U20 level. This year we are looking forward to seeing them one year older, one year wiser” Jake Letts, national teams’ head for the Philippine Volcanoes, said.

The Philippines have selected the best of both local and international Philippine heritage players. The key members making their return include Rhys Jacob Mackley, Andrew Rodolfo Baldado and Joshua Golimlim Aragon.

The U18s captain from 2016, Ryan Ralston Santos, also looks to make his first appearance in the national U20s program.

The tournament will be played at Kings Park, Hong Kong, on August 5 and 6.

The team is composed of Donald Gregory Anderson, Ethan Chen, Francis Paul Castro, Gabriel Lingan, James Ryan, Jan Philip Ninalga, Jay Vincent Enriquez, Jeff Patrick Ninalga, Josh Miller, Lyndon Cabano-Ang Adlao, Mark Joseph Llanera, Mike Joshua Llanera and Ryan Padilla.

Faith A6 Sunday, June 18, 2017

Sunday

www.businessmirror.com.ph • Editor: Lyn Resurreccion

Muslims, Christians, IPs respond to Marawi crisis

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ore than 750 volunteers from Metro Manila and different regions in Mindanao converged in different conflict areas in Mindanao on Wednesday, in response to calls for humanitarian intervention to communities affected by the fight between the government and the Islamic State-inspired Maute Group, as well as communities affected by the declaration of martial law in Mindanao.

Led by Kalinaw Mindanao, an alliance of faith-based, service organizations, human rights and people’s organizations, the volunteers responded to the call for an interfaith intervention through a National Interfaith Humanitarian Mission (NIHM) geared toward bringing relief and medical services to victims and evacuees, as well as document human-rights violations brought about by the declaration of martial law, a news release said.

T he m i s s ion co ve re d f ive m i s s ion a re a s: M a r aw i C it y in L a nao del Su r, I l iga n C it y

in L a nao del Nor te, Mat a nao i n Dav ao de l Su r, P resident Rox as in Nor t h Cot abato a nd Mamasapano in Maguindanao.

In Iligan City the mission converged at the Minitheater of the Mindanao State Unversity-Iligan Institute of Technology for an opening program with more than 400 participants for the NIHM in Lanao.

“Kalinaw, meaning peace, is what we seek in Mindanao. So much suffering and violence has been done to the Mindanawons, especially our Moro brothers and sisters. This has to stop now,”

said Aida Ibrahim, spokesman of Kalinaw Mindanao-Northern Mindanao Region.

“We visited victims of forced evacuations, both home-based and in evacuation centers to know their situation and their needs. We also provided relief packs, conduct psychosocial intervention to women and children. We listened to the stories of Marawi residents on the extent of damage done by military air strikes and the martial law in Mindanao,” Ibrahim said.

Gathering from their initial research, more than 200,000 evacuees are from Marawi. A total of 3,584 families, or 21,000 indiv idua ls, most ly children, elderly and women, have f led to Saguiaran, Lanao del Sur, Ibrahim said.

Evacuees in the gymnasium of Balo-I, Lanao del Norte, have put up signs inside the evacuation centers, such as, “Please stop martial law and stop bombing in Marawi City.”

Others pointed out their dire situation such houses and properties destroyed by bombing, people killed and wounded by bombing.

“Dear Mr. President, please stop martial law. Have pity on us civilians,” other signs read in Filipino.

“Their message is clear—it is the civilian communities who

are defeated during martial law, not the terrorists. It is the lives of the children and the evacuees that are ruined. We call on the peace-loving Filipinos to join us in responding to the immediate needs of victims. We encourage the public to show support in calling for peace in Mindanao, for the Moro people, Christians and Lumad,” Ibrahim said in the news release. “ T he Moro people are not ter ror i st s. We condem n t he terror acts of the Maute Group, the exag gerated counter ter ror response by the A r med Forces of t he Phi l ippines and t heir par tner US soldiers that has a g g r av ate d t he s it u at ion of the Maraw i residents and their communities,” said Jerome Succor Aba of Suara Bangsamoro, a convenor of K alinaw Mindanao NIHM 2017.

Aba condemned the role of the US government in instigating and using extremist groups a nd condon i ng t hei r ter ror ist attacks in covert and overt oper at ion s to suppor t t he i r regime-change policy in countries against the United States government and to ser ve the purpose for justifying the US global “war on terror”. “ They have done that in Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria and now in Mindanao. They turned our communities into a war zone, showcasing their latest military arsenal and conducting military operations that are illegal, unconstitutional and destructive.

T hey under mined t he leg it imate struggle of the people for right to self-determination by tagging all struggles as acts of terrorism,” Aba said.

K alinaw Mindanao ser ves as a response of different groups to the call for a Muslim- Christian-Indigenous Peoples’ unity in addressing the roots cause of the conf lict in Mindanao, and for the promotion of just and lasting peace.

FASHION FOR WORSHIP Dom Martin Hizon Gomez of the Order of Saint Benedict designed robes for priests that feature the art of 20 ethno-linguistic groups across the country.

His creations are displayed in the exhibit, Vested for Worship, Wrapped in Identity, at the Ayala Museum until September 5. Gomez, before entering the religious life, was a popular fashion designer known by the name Gang Gomez. Albert-Anthony Abando/PNA

SM lectors/commentators renew vow

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hirty-seven SM lectors/ comment ators renewed their pledge to actively participate in spreading the Gospel and help in the Church’s mission of strengthening the Catholic faith.

T he lec tors/com ment ators serve during Eucharistic celebrations in SM-sponsored activities

or in places of worship located in SM Malls. The renewal activity was facilitated by Rev. Fr. Carmelo Arada, followed by a Eucharistic Celebration by Rev. Fr. Reynaldo Reyes, SSP, at the Sunshine Place in Bel Air, Makati City.

This is a project of the Felicidad T. Sy Foundation.

Saints Mark and Marcellian, martyrs

By Corazon Damo-Santiago

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arly Christianity started as a religious sect among the temple of Jews. The New Testament narrates that the Christians were persecuted by the Pharisees. Paul of Tarsius, before his conversion, was antiChristian too.

Persecutions continued during the first century by Jews and Romans who controlled vast tract of lands. Christian missionaries and converts were martyred because of their faith.

Persecution of Christians ended in 313 when Constantine the Great signed the Edict of Milan, which granted permanent freedom of worship to Christians.

The New Catholic Encyclopedia states that estimates of the number of people killed before 313 vary from a low 10,000 to a high of almost 100,000.

The church honors today Saints Mark and Marcellian, brothers who were martyred during the reign of Emperor Diocletian.

The great persecutions

Nero, at 17, became the emperor of Rome as heir and successor to his uncle, Claudius, who adopted him. He reigned from October 13, 54, to June 9, 68.

He focused on trade, diplomacy and culture. He built theaters,

promoted athletic games and made public appearances as a musician, poet or charioteer.

His rule was characterized by tyranny, extravagance and execution of Christians, which include Saints Peter and Paul.

Historians attribute the Great Fire of Rome on July 18 and 19, 64, to Nero, who desired to clear the place for the construction of Domus Aurea, a palatial complex.

The fire destroyed three of the 14 Roman districts and severely damaged seven.

In Lives of 12 Caesars by Suetonius, it was noted that Nero, in stage, costume was singing Sack of Lium while Rome was burning.

Tacitus, a historian, stated that Christians confessed to the crime, but it was not known if owning the crime was induced by torture.

Nero tortured and executed Christians for the burning of Rome, Tacitus wrote. The first text to suggest Nero ordered the execution of Saint Paul was a letter by Clement to the Corinthians dated 96 AD. According to Lactantius, Saint Peter was crucified but not by Nero, and Saint Paul was slain by a sword.

In 68 civil and military authorities declared Galba emperor, so Nero fled Rome. Historians declared he was captured and executed, or committed suicide. But, the Encyclopedia of the Roman

Empire 2009 by Matthew Bunson narrated that, initially, he wanted to commit suicide but forced Epaphroditos, his private secretary, to kill him.

Nero died on June 9, 68, and was buried at the mausoleum of the Domiti Ahenobarbi, now the Villa Borghese in Pincian Hill, Rome.

To restore the pagan religion, Emperor Dom it i a n e xec uted confessed Christians when they refused to offer sacrifice to the idols. Labelled atheists, they were killed. A self proclaimed “Lord and God”, he did not ignore the needs of the people. But when pressures mounted, he became a paranoia, and was stabbed by Stemphasus.

He reigned until September 18, 96.

Emperor Decius reigned from 249 to 251 AD. On June 250 he issued an imperial edict requiring all inhabitants to pledge loyalty to the ancestral gods of Rome before the magistrate of the community, in exchange for a certificate—libellus.

Those who refused were tortured and executed, including Pope Saint Fabian. Cyprian in his essay De Mortatilate wrote that the executions triggered the Plaque of Cyprian.

The last and greatest persecution of Christians was during the reign of Emperor Diocletian who was acclaimed emperor by soldiers on November 17, 284.

A conser vative, Diocletian, according to Britanica.com, obligated children to care for their parents in old age, parents to care for children justly, married couples to respect the laws of marriage, sons not to witness against their fathers, and slaves against their masters.

Private property and contracts were protected. He also forbade the use of torture.

The persecution of Christians during his reign was the possible influence of Calerius, a fanatic follower of the traditional Roman religion who believed that complete unity was seemingly difficult with Christians “forming a kind of state within the state” with their doctrines.

Although he published four edicts in 303 to 305, promising that he would not spill blood, his vow went unheeded. He abdicated on May 1, 305.

Twin brothers and saints

M ark a nd M a rce l l i a n we re brothers. Both were mar r ied with children and deacons in Rome. The children of Martia and Tranqillinus of Rome, were Christians but their parents worshipped pagan gods.

When Christians were persecuted during the reign of Emperor Diocletian, the brothers were imprisoned. Their parents

Saints Mark and Marcellian are lead to their martyrdom, oil on canvas

visited them persuading both to abandon their belief in God. Mark and Marcellian were prevailed by the future Saint Sebastian not to give up their faith. A captain of the Praetorian guards, Diocletian, was unaware Sebastian was a Christian. Sebastian was able to convert the brothers’ parents, Chromatius, the local prefect and his son, Tiburtius, who became a saint.

Set free by Chromatius, they were concealed by another Christian officer, Castulus. But they were betrayed by Torquatus.

Both brothers were bound to

two pillars with their heads downward. For a day they were hung then pierced with lances.

The twins, whose feast day is June 18, were buried in Via Ardeatina near the Domitian Cemetery.

Their bodies were rediscovered in 1581 during the reign of Pope Gregory XIII. n Santiago is a former regional director of the Department of Education National Capital Region. She is currently a faculty member of Mater Redemptoris Collegium in Calauan, Laguna, and Mater Redemptoris College in San Jose City, Nueva Ecija.

Tourism&Entertainment BusinessMirror

Editor: Carla Mortel-Baricaua

Sunday, June 18, 2017 A7

More visitors eyed as Fort Santiago showcases two new sections

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Story & photos by Gretchen Filart Dublin

n addition to its existing dungeons, promenades and ruins, visitors now have more reasons to visit Fort Santiago as it opened two new historic sites recently—the Paseo Soledad and Plaza Moriones. The sections were redeveloped by the Department of Tourism (DOT), as part of the Intramuros Revival Project spearheaded by Tourism Secretary Wanda Corazon T. Teo that seeks to boost visitor arrivals in the historic walled city to 91 percent. “ We star ted the project in Oc tober b y c le a n i ng up t he streets, followed by the Christmas Season, when we lighted the g iant parol at Plaza Romana. We a lso held the Chr istmas bazaar at Postigo Street. Today, we enter another phase of the rev iva l project w ith the rehabilitation of the histor ic site, Fort Santiago,” Teo said during the opening ceremony.

Plaza Moriones and Paseo Soledad

Plaza Mor iones rests on what was once a sprawling garden and resting area. Visitors prev iously needed to wa lk from the entrance a l l the way to the For t Santiago gate to see the iconic str ucture in its unobstr ucted glor y. With the pathway c leared, Pl a za Mor iones now a f ford s v isitors a c lea r v iew of the gate f rom Santa Clara Street, w ith Frang ipani trees at the side and a centra l fountain that lights up nightly.

Paseo Soledad at the farther end of the fort is a landscaped linear

park straddling the banks of Pasig River. A 1714 map by Spanish military engineer Juan de Ciscara shows that this section used to be a passageway for locals boarding rowboats to Binondo and Quiapo.

It was also used by Lieutenant Gov. Gen. Simon de Anda in 1762 to escape British soldiers who were seizing the capital.

Accessible v ia t he Post igo Nuestra Señora de Soledad gate, the landscaped promenade offers up-close views of the city. The scene is particularly romantic at night as city lights glimmer against the river.

The opening of these areas are part of a two-phase P30-million redevelopment program funded by the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (Tieza), a DOT arm.

“We redeveloped the grounds to highlight the walls of Fort Santiago. There will be a mechanism for consultation for Phase 2,” Intramuros Administration (IA) and Tieza Chief Operating Officer lawyer Guiller Asido shared.

According to him, Phase 2 will

Fort Santiago enables visitors to relive Rizal’s footsteps from his cell up to the execution block.

The iconic Fort Santiago gate

View of Manila from Paseo Soledad

Visitors can have their photos taken with heroes at the Rizal Shrine

Rajah Sulayman will be open for events this year.

before it was dec l ared a Shr ine of Freedom i n 1951— i n memor y of Dr. Jose R i za l a nd ot her heroes a nd m a r t y rs who lost t he i r l ive s he re — t h i s pl ace h a s h ad it s role i n t he h i stor y of M a n i l a ,” Teo s a id .

Named after Spain’s patron saint, Saint James (Santiago Matamoros or Saint James the Moorslayer), Fort Santiago is one of the most important historical structures in Manila. Then called Fuerte de Santiago, the citadel was built as a defense fortress in 1571 by Spanish conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi.

Its dungeons served as a prison

for criminals in the Spanish colonial period and Jose Rizal prior to his execution in 1896.

Visitors can retrace Rizal ’s steps on the day of his execution through bronze footprints embedded on the ground, from his cell to the execution block.

On site is a replica of Rizal ’s ancestral house, as well as his memorabilia in the Rizal Shrine.

To d a y, Fo r t S a nt i a g o r e mains as one of the prominent landmarks in the wa l led cit y of Intramuros. Its air y promenades are often used into a venue for weddings and other specia l events.

include the installation of Closedcircuit television cameras, additional restrooms, installation of underground utility cables, relocation of informal settlers and tree planting. “The expectation is that, when the project ends, 70 percent will be green,” he added.

Fort Santiago received more than 500,000 tourists in 2016.

With these developments, Asido said they expect a rise of 30 percent to 40 percent in visitor arrivals this year, or up to 700,000 visitors. To accommodate the visitor influx, Fort Santiago’s hours have been extended and it now operates from 8 to 10 p.m. daily.

Fort Santiago in a glimpse

Many areas within the fort, such as Rajah Soliman and the dungeons, shall be made available for public use this year.

The Intramuros Museum, which will feature vital artefacts and collections from Intramuros, is expected to open in July. Asido reassured that, despite the refurbishments, there will be no increase in entrance fees. Adults can still enjoy access to the fort grounds for only P75, and students and children for only P50. “ T h e i m p o r t a n c e o f Fo r t Sa nt i a go i n I nt ra mu ros c a nnot be overemph a si z ed . L ong

Ceza promotes new tourism destination

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new tourism destination, which combines a scenic river, amazing natural attractions, varied flora and fauna, an interesting agricultural community and a colorful festival, is beginning to draw a lot of visitors in Cagayan province.

Casagan, an agricultural village first inhabited by Aetas in Santa Ana, Cagayan, is now known for its bountiful rice fields and beautiful Tangatan River, where villagers use a wooden boat called takuli to transport passengers and their agricultural products from the farm to the market.

The river, a source of income and food for Casagan residents, offers a variety of fish and edible shells. A version of the story goes that the name of the village originated from the Aeta word “Casagan” which means “a place to meet together”. Aetas were the first inhabitants in the barangay and used to build their huts along the riverbank.

Clearing the area began with the arrival of settlers from other areas who were drawn by fertile soil and nearby thick forest, where narra, ipil and lawan grew. Casagan thus became an agricultural barangay and is now one of the rice producers in Santa Ana. After its success with Palaui Island’s community-based sustainable tourism (CBST) program, the Cagayan Economic Zone Author-

ity (Ceza) recognized and identified Casagan as its next area for CBST development.

Ceza, in coordination with Casagan’s barangay unit and the Department of Tourism, officially launched Casagan as a new tourism destination in Cagayan Valley, and to promote Casagan as a destination, Ceza launched a tourism development program, dubbed “Casagan-all-you-can”, which opened varied activities and interesting sites in the village.

Casagan’s geography makes it an exciting destination for river-cruising. A cruise to the river offers a unique natural setting that is composed of varied f lora and fauna, such as the mangroves and trees that grow along the river banks, the different species that include wild birds that migrate to the area during specific seasons and the firef lies that shine after sunset and before sunrise.

The view is made even more spectacular with the surrounding fields and mountains, as the boat reaches the end of the river and the start of the sea. As one takes a cruise along the river, the man-made hanging bridge adds a spectacle to the fascinating story of Casagan.

The river cruise also leads to one of the area’s gems—the La Mesa Falls. It is a natural waterfall that is ideal for picnic, swimming

and simply just nature-watching.

The elevated rock formation of the waterfalls makes it a potential rappelling area. The elevated area can be reached 6.81 kilometers from Parada-Batu entrance and 5.92 kilometers from Tangatan entrance.

Adding more spice to the Casagan experience is the use of takuli in the form of a wooden kayak boat. Riding a takuli does not only offer a unique experience but also shares a part of the local culture and tradition.

The Casagan experience also introduces the salamangka, or cannonball, which is a fruit from a mangrove plant found along Tangatan River. Each salamangka fruit, which usually comes out during the summer season, bears a minimum of eight and a maximum of 19 distinctive seeds that, when detached, can make an interesting puzzle, thus the name. The fruit is dried and hardened to make a puzzle out of its seeds.

A m ajor at t rac t ion i s t he Takuli Festival, which is held every May. The festival includes a thanksg iv ing mass, a r icefield parade and pluvial parade with Saint Isidore the Laborer, traditional takuli racing, wet shirt-relay contest, beauty contest, salamangka puzzle contest, family sack race relay, piglet hunt ing , ca rabao racing a nd barangay party.

Experience a luxury beach lifestyle

S

avoy Hotel Boracay Newcoast is the newest tourist destination in Boracay Island which, opened in April 18. It is a four-star hotel located r i g h t at t h e h e a r t o f t h e B o r a c ay Newcoast, an integrated tourism estate with world-class resort offerings. It is the first and only master-planned leisure oriented community in Boracay.

I t i s s u r ro u n d e d by a n a r ray o f various leisure activities being at the center of the entertainment complex.

At the center of its one-kilometer white beach is an expansive grand plaza called Newcoast Station, where the row of vibrant boutiques, strip of luxurious cafés, lounges, beach clubs and bars are within reach.

Savoy Hotel Boracay features 559 rooms; a dining restaurant, which is Savoy Café; a huge swimming pool with lounges and pavilion pool bar; meeting rooms and banquet facilities; a state-of-the-art fitness center and a spa.

Surrounding the hotel is a huge party pool, the first and only concert pool arena in the country with adult wading pool and pool deck with cabanas and lounges.

Situated northeast of the island, this 150-hectare development will surely attract more tourists in this exclusive North Eastern part of Boracay.

Experience and enjoy a luxurious beach lifestyle with various leisure and water activities right at your fingertips with its expansive stretch of white-

sand beach, clear blue waters and breathtaking sunsets.

It is a vibrant and hip place with a contemporary beach lifestyle that defines a world of its own. Enjoy the sun, sand and sea, and get to color your experience only at Savoy Hotel Boracay.

The opening promo rates start at P5,900 per night from May 1 to July 31, 2017. More savings as Savoy Hotel offers the soft opening sale of P4,500 per night extended until August 30, 2017. Take advantage of this great promo while enjoying a colorful vacation spree in Boracay.

Savoy Hotel Boracay Newcoast is at Newcoast Drive, Boracay Newcoast, Brgy.

Yapak, Boracay Island, 5608, Malay, Aklan.

Science

BusinessMirror

A8 Sunday, June 18, 2017

Sunday

www.businessmirror.com.ph • Editor: Lyn Resurreccion

Science, technology and innovation in Asia

‘Coopetition’: Cooperating while competing Story & photos by Stephanie Tumampos

‘C

Special to the BusinessMirror

oopetition,” or cooperation and competition. This, Science Secretary Fortunato T. de la Peña said, best describes countries in Asia that are cooperating with each other while they are competing, which is vital to the development of each nation economically and scientifically.

“We are no longer seeing our neighbors as competitors, rather, we see each other as brothers and sisters who has to work together to improve not just the lives of our countrymen, but also that of our neighbors,” de la Peña said in his keynote speech at the opening of the three-day 17th Conference of the Science Council of Asia at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City on June 14.

“This is an exciting time for Asian countries as we are seeing a high level of support and cooperation among Asian nations,” he said.

In the Philippines Asian fellows have extended support through infrastructure, research and development. “And the various partnerships we have entered into which will foster technology application to improve people’s lives across the regions,” he said.

He said the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has one main goal under the current administration—that science and technology (S&T) must be felt by each and every Filipino. He said S&T and innovation must help in the progress of the country and must serve the public. He said, this year’s conference’s theme, the vital role of science, technology and innovation in achieving inclusive growth “is not really something new”.

Countries worldwide, for several decades, have been wanting, believing and achieving the role of S&T and innovation in the nation’s development, he said, as shown by western countries and some Asian neighbors.

“Gradually we’re seeing changes in the economies that infused innovation. So the move now is for many, if not all of us, to head in the same direction,” he said.

De la Peña said what is new “is a stronger clamor today for a more cohesive Asean plus, whether that plus is four, five, six or so other nations: Japan, South Korea, China and others.”

He added, “As a country in Asia, we are a part of a long drawn plan that aims for a regional progress,” that the neighbors are not regarded as competitors but as cooperators.

But in a local perspective, de la Peña said the theme is just right because, “we [in the Philippines] have not achieved inclusive development, it is an ongoing mission and I think we have very little time”.

De la Peña told the BusinessMirror in an interview at the sidelines of the conference that “everybody has to cooperate to be able to contribute to inclusive development, whether to include the marginalized or anybody who has the brains.” He said the current Philippine budget for S&T is only 0.1 percent of the country’s GDP. “When I became [DOST] undersecretary in 2001, I remember our budget was P2 billion, and a decade after I remember it was around P5.8 billion, in 2010,” de la Peña said.

This figure is less than 0.1 percent of the country’s GDP. Last year DOST’s budget was around P20.8 billion. Currently, the science administration “is hoping and praying that we will have at least hit around P29 billion”, which has not reached at least 1 percent of the country’s GDP. According to Prof. Christina Binag, president of the National Research Council of the Philippines (NRCP), “The minimum requirement by the United Nations for research and development budget of a country is at least 1 percent.”

She told the BusinessMirror that other countries, like Singapore, “have raised their science budget to 3 percent of their GDPs and see where they’re going now”.

However, even with the smaller-than-required budget, “we have fared very well in terms of making the Filipinos feel the impacts of science and innovation,” Binag said.

The posters exhibit at the 17th Conference of the Science Council of Asia was opened through the ribbon cutting led by Prof. Marieta Bañez Sumagaysay (from left), executive director of the National Research Council of the Philippines; Prof. Toshio Koike, director of International Center for Water Hazard and Risk Management; Prof. Keisuke Hanaki, vice president for International Activities, Science Council of Japan; Science Secretary Fortunato T. de la Peña; Prof. Christina Binag, president of the National Research Council of the Philippines; Dr. Anton M. Juan of University of Notre Dame (US); and Dr. Josefino Comiso of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (US).

Science Secretary Fortunato T. de la Peña delivers his keynote address during the opening ceremony of the 17th Conference of the Science Council of Asia, with the theme “Science, Technology and Innovation for Inclusive Development”, at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City on June 14. The three-day scientific conference has invited 10 countries from the Asean region and neighboring countries, such as Japan and South Korea.

Inclusiveness started way back three decades ago. In 1982 regional offices have been set up.

“It was really a very good way to achieve inclusiveness,” de la Peña told the BusinessMirror.

The offices of the precursors of the DOST, the National Science Development Board and the National Science and Technology Authority, were just in Manila then.

But “putting up [their] regional offices, although they were not really [focused on] research and development [R&D], but were extending or transferring the technologies to the various sectors, more important to the enterprise sector, we were able to accomplish much ”, he said.

T he Duter te ad minist rat ion, f rom 2017 to 2022, de l a Peña sa id, wa nts to cont r ib ute to t he development of t he cou nt r y ’s reg ions.

“Not only in terms of transferring technologies, but also in terms of capacitating our institutions, particularly the universities, to be able to participate actively, especially in R&D,” he said.

The DOST has crafted the country’s 11-Point Agenda on R&D and S&T, including that on address pressing problems, which is concerns health selfsufficiency, food and nutrition, agricultural commodities, biodiversity and sustainable development and transport mobility.

Binag said it is high time for S&T and innovation “to play a big role in pulling up those in the marginalized sectors to feel the S&T development because they haven’t felt it that much”.

For his par t, Prof. Toshio Koike, director of International Center for Water Hazard and R isk Management, a key note

Prof. Toshio Koike, director of International Center for Water Hazard and Risk Management, explained the importance of water cycle for climate system where nature is in control, and water resources management system during the opening ceremony of the 17th Conference of the Science Council of Asia. Koike has worked with the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration in projects on water resources and management.

speaker at the conference, said, “Reducing current disaster and environmental risk, preventing future risk and improving our capacity for adaptation and rehabilitation can build a resilient society, which can contribute to the sustainable development.”

Koike’s research has focused more on the climate change, the water cycle and how reducing risks can prevent future disasters.

“Our science-and-technology community is now requested to take a concerted effort to take on these agreements,” Koike said, referring to the 2015 Sendai Framework on Disaster Risk Reduction, 2015 Sustainable Goals, and the 2015 Paris Agreement on climate change.

Koike is actively coordinating with Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration and Philippine

Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, and with some universities in the region.

Over 500 researchers, students and professors in over 10 countries attended the scientific conference, 80 percent of who are Filipinos. The researches covered all scientific topics, including the social sciences.

“The conference is really more of sharing of information of what is going on in other countries,” de la Peña told the BusinessMirror.

“It is more of linking people, person to person, learning what others are doing.”

The Philippines has been a part of the Science Council of Asia since 2010 and has actively participated in the annual conferences of the said group. This year’s conference was jointly organized by the NRCP and the Science Council of Japan.

Environmental groups to Nickelodeon: Leave Palawan alone

By Jonathan L. Mayuga

@jonlmayuga

‘B

ack off and leave Palawan alone.” This was the call of environmental groups to the Department of Tourism (DOT), and to Coral World Park Undersea Resorts and the Viacom International Media Networks, the proponents of the underwater-themed park to be constructed in Coron, Palawan, as they vowed to oppose the project at a recent news conference.

“The logic of building intrusive structures in critical biodiversity regions, like Palawan, upsets the ecosystem and continues the misguided logic of paving paradise to put up facilities that fall short of the already perfect work of nature.

It is best for Nickelodeon and the proponent of the tourist attraction in Coron to leave Palawan alone as

Mother Nature knows best,” Chuck Baclagon of 350.org Asia said.

The call was made a few days after Tourism Secretary Wanda Corazon T. Teo said in an interview on CNN Philippines that the controversial project would “push through”.

In a news release, the environment groups sent a letter to the DOT reiterating their opposition to the project, on behalf of the more than a quarter million signatories in the online petition site Bataris.org.ph Dr. AA Yaptinchay of the Marine Wildlife Watch of the Philippines, a non-gover nmenta l organization on the conservation and protection of marine wildlife and their habitats, said proponents of the project need to assess the impact of their proposed project.

“It is my opinion that their

presence has no added value to Coron as a tourist destination.

Their facility will be an eyesore among the extreme natural beauty of these islands,” he said.

Yaptinchay chided the proponents of the project for its lack of transparency about their plan in Coron, Palawan. “ Their approach now is simplistic, ignorant of ecosystems and is too business-focused.

They need to be transparent.

They need to consult with scientists, communities, government and ot her sta keholders w it h the goal to incor porate their findings and concerns in their master plan,” Yaptinchay said.

Coron, Palawan, is a small town surrounded w ith pr istine clear waters, lagoons and relatively i nt ac t cora l reefs a nd ot her mar ine ecosystems.

Instead of potentially causing

Coron harm, Yaptinchay said proponents of the project “[should] prioritize the protection of the environment and the corals if they really want sustainability. They cannot jeopardize the main attraction that their business would be reliant on”, he said.

For its part, K alikasan-People’s Network for the Environm e nt ( K a l i k a s a n - P N E ) s a i d the proponents of the project should strictly comply with the various environmental laws before it should be allowed to start construction in Coron.

“In Nickelodeon’s pitch to build a 400-hectare undersea resort and theme park, it said it would ‘advocate ocean protection’ and take steps to conserve coral reefs. The media giant should understand that such a promise requires the strictest scientific rigor and socioeconomic and cultural sensitivity,”

said Leon Dulce, campaign coordinator of the group.

According to Dulce, Nickelodeon has to ensure that its proposed development does not displace the homes and livelihood of the fisherfolk and other communities reliant on the bountiful coasts and seas.

“In fact, its ecotourism should respect and enhance the local practices of community fisheries.

Fisherfolk communities should be the primary frontline partners in managing and protecting our oceans,” he said.

Proponents of the project have to be prepared to address the pollution and ecological disruption that a development project of such scale will bring, he said.

“They must demonstrate that they should have at least studied the disappointingly degraded state of Boracay, for instance, to avoid transforming Coron, Palawan,

into another casualty of profitoriented, haphazard coastal privatization,” he said.

Accord ing to Du lce, Nic kelodeon and their partners in the Ph i l ippines have to l isten to the host communities, people’s orga ni zat ions a nd c iv i l soc iet y in order to come up w it h a su st a i n able a nd genu i ne ly commu nit y-based ecotou r ism development model.

“Perhaps, beyond transforming Coron into just a vast replica of Spongebob Squarepants’s Bikini Bottom, they should look into how their program will help raise scientific understanding, pro-environment consciousness, and positive action among its target audience,” he said.

“If they can’t address these core concerns, they should just leave Coron, Palawan, alone,” he stressed.

Journey

»life on the go

BusinessMirror

Editor: Tet Andolong

Sunday, June 18, 2017

Apo Island

A9

Exploring the underwater world of critters

T

By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan

HE creature blended in with the corals almost invisible at about 2 inches. Adorned with spikes from head to tail, it waltzed along with the waves of the soft corals, which it calls home.

Found along the coast of Dauin was the first ghost ornate pipefish I have ever seen in my entire two years of scuba diving. I almost missed it, if not for my dive guide from Coral Dive and Adventure Zamboanguita named Koykoy, who spotted the pipefish on a small family of delicate whip corals at a dive site called Cars in Dauin, a few kilometers away from the city of Dumaguete.

My heart started to thump out of excitement, a rhythmic beat of joy, as I marveled at the beauty of the marine animal. It was only a few minutes into the dive when we saw the pipefish swaying back and forth along with the corals.

Cars is a sandy slope with a few car parts here and there. It is home to a plethora of small sea creatures known to divers as critters. Along with the delicate pipefish, the dive site is also home to sea horses, frogfishes, box crabs and garden eels.

A few more meters and a pregnant frogfish welcomed us to her home. Her neighbor was another pipefish—a green and yellow variant—who was also camouflaging with the feather stars embedded on a hard coral.

This was my first experience in muck diving. As the name suggests, muck diving is a sport of plunging into sandy bottoms laid with seagrass and little to no reef.

During such dives, scuba divers are treated to a variety of critters—tiny sea slugs, colorful nudibranchs, seahorses, shrimps and lobsters, to name a few.

Dauin, a small town half an hour away from Dumaguete in the province of Negros Oriental,

is a gem for muck diving enthusiasts. It has a swathe of dive sites for macro photographers who love their small marine creatures.

Each dive in Dauin felt like a treasure hunt, as marine life tends to keep them safe by hiding behind corals of their same color and feature. Along with a keen eye for detail, the dives in the coast of Dauin require a lot of patience and persistence.

At Ginamaan, an artificial reef created made with about two dozen tires adorned with a variety of hard and soft corals, black reef crabs, dwarf peacock and banded cleaner shrimps live.

Right smack in the middle of the coral-festooned tires was a napoleon wrasse frolicking, its colorful scales glimmering with the little ray piercing through the reef.

On the way back to the boat was a spotted pufferfish, blotches of electric blue dotted its body. It has full lips and pleading eyes, both of which seemed to have been speaking to this diver.

During our safety stop, I saw a huge silhouette, a slender neck extending to the sea grass, feeding.

It was a green sea turtle, which was about a meter and a half in size. Its back was decorated with starburst pattern of different shades of brown and green, and has wide marble-like eyes. This dive site was really a feast for the photography enthusiasts.

Dauin threw a critter party that day, and I was glad to have dived with Coral Dive and Adventure Zamboanguita, a small dive shop nestled at the center of dive sites in Dauin, Zambo-

anguita, and Apo Island. The dive shop is owned by Maria Fe and Mark McMillan—a beautiful couple who have both logged thousands of dives and are certified instructors.

Mark, a former military man from the United Kingdom, and his team are supportive of marine conservation, an initiative very close to my heart. Its operations are in line with the Green Fins Initiative of the United Nations, a program that is designed to increase public awareness and management practices, enhancing conservation of coral reefs and reducing unsustainable tourism practices.

And while it offers regularly serviced rental gears, and has a crew that genuinely cares for the ocean, what really sets the dive shop apart from its competitors is that safety is always the No. 1 priority. During our dive briefing for the dives at Apo Island the following day, Mark told about the features of the boat. First, he showed us where to find the safety vests, the first-aid kits and the oxygen tanks.

He then pointed out that should any emergency happen, there is a satellite phone and a tracking unit on the boat that will help authorities to respond more quickly.

After the briefing, we sped off to Apo Island, some 25 minutes away from the resort. It was a quick trip, considering the huge boat that we have, whose capacity extends to more than 15 guests at a time.

It wasn’t my first time to visit Apo Island, but it was my first time to dive into its sites. There are a handful of dive sites around the island, whose waters are a perfect mix of different hues of blue. Its clear waters are a treat to divers who love stunning reef dives.

Touted as one of the world’s most diverse collection of corals, the reefs of Apo are well-preserved marine-protected areas. One of them is Chapel Point.

The dive site, which got its name from a church that overlooks the site, is a gentle slope of sand dotted with corals leading to a huge magnificent wall lined with different varieties of corals—sea fans, leather corals, finger sponges and anemones, among others.

A dive guide from Coral Dive and Adventure Zamboaguita strikes a pose with the green black corals of Largahan.

Atop the wall was an impressive formation of fine table and funnel corals, which looks like underwater rose petals. From afar the reef looked like the Chocolates Hills of Bohol.

Just a few meters away from the gorgeous hill-like coral family was a turtle sleeping under an overhang, whose neighbors were boring clams pursing their lips, a green-and-black harlequin nudibranch, and a varicose wart slug.

A few hours later, we found ourselves in the waters of Largahan, a steep slope of sand that leads to a small wall. It was probably one of the most amazing wall dives that I have ever done, as there was little to no current, and the wall was decorated with a wide variety of corals.

After the dives, Mark and I had a good talk about how he advocates for sustainable tourism, and how he fights to take care of the sea through awareness campaigns.

He and his family clean the beach in front of White Chocolate Hills Resort from time to time to ensure that sea creatures won’t mistake trash as food.

White Chocolate Hills is the resort where Coral Dive and Adventure is based. It offers guests a relaxing after-dive rest in its bungalows, whose roof is similar to the shape of the Chocolate Hills of Bohol.

Two diving days to Dauin and Apo Island are quite short for me.

But it also gives me a reason to come back to dive in other sites, and to try diving in Zamboanguita.

A Green sea turtle at Chapel Point

A Pufferfish resting on a coral

A Magnificent coral growth on the rubber tires at Ginamaan

Journey

»life on the go

A10 Sunday, June 18, 2017

Editor: Tet Andolong

Diving, caving and all that jazz

I

Story and photos by Bernard L. Supetran

T was indeed my lucky week in mid-May, when the distant planets of the universe conspired and brought together three of my favorite things— diving, caving and jazz music (in that particular order).

The fact that it happened in the charming resort city of Miri in Sarawak, Malaysia, during the Borneo Jazz Festival made it a consummate and multisensorial experience.

Located on the northern central part of Borneo island, which boasts of a rich biodiversity, Miri is one of the unheralded diving havens in this part of the world.In between the sizzling performances in the two-day jazz fest, the event organizers took us to Miri’s underwater world via Co.Co. Dive, Sarawak’s one and only Padi 5-Star Dive Center.

Facing the South China Sea, Miri boasts of over 800 species of hard and soft corals, sea whips, anemones, sponges, 40 species of nudibranchs, sting rays, sea turtles and whale sharks.

The dive was a bit physically challenging due to the long speedboat rides, the sea current and choppy waves, but once we reached the ocean floor, the world was more serene and the profusion of marine life made us forget our struggle in the surface.

We ventured into dive sites— Batu Belais—known for its batfishes and long swaying sea whips, Anemone Garden, which abounds in iconic “Nemo” fishes playing in the soft corals; and Eve’s Garden, which all teem in marine flora and is a delightful subject for underwater photography.

Another exciting side show from the Jazz Fest was a visit to the Gunung Mulu National Park, a Unesco World Heritage Site, which encompasses massive cave systems and astounding karst-limestone formations in Borneo’s equatorial wilderness. Named after Mount Mulu, Sarawak’s secondtallest peak at 2,376 meters, it can be reached by a 30-minute flight from Miri, overlooking meandering rivers and rainforests. It can also be accessed via Kuching in Sarawak and Kota Kinabalu in Sabah.

At 529 sq.m, the National Park boasts of largest known natural chamber—the Sarawak Chamber in Gua Nasib Bagus (Good Luck Cave), which is 700-meters long,

Aerial view of the meandering Melinau River in Mulu

Penan village souvenir shop in Mulu

396-meters wide and 70-meters high and can fit in some 40 Boeing 747s. The adjacent Deer Cave also has one of the world’s largest single-cave passages and is home to millions of bats, which fly out at dusk in a much-awaited exodus show by tourists.

Other notable caves we explored were Wind Cave and Clearwater Cave, the world eighth-longest and believed to have the largest water volume. Both caves can be reached through a cruise at the Melinau River passing through the villages of the Penan tribe, which showcases their way of life at the designated pit stops.

The iconic image in the park is The Pinnacles, the peak of Mount Api, which is punctuated by jagged limestones and steep trails, which can be conquered through a wholeday trek.

Further enhancing our interlude with nature was a stay at the luxe Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa, whose architecture is inspired by Melinau indigenous longhouses on stilts to blend within the jungle setting. The 101-room property is a recipient of a TripAdvisor 2017 Travellers’ Choice Award, and Asia’s first rainforest resort to be awarded the Best of Malaysia Top 5-Best Resort Experience and Excellence Award by Expatriate Lifestyle.

But lest we be distracted by its natural wonders, Miri’s piece de

Cabo Cuba Jazz

resistance is the musical event, which has made it the hub of jazz in this side of the world. Incepted 12 years ago as the Miri Jazz Festival, it aims to literally jazz up Borneo with a music genre that everybody can relate to, featuring the best contemporary artists from all over globe.

Organized by Sarawak Tourism Board and supported by official flag carrier Malaysia Airlines, it was later renamed Borneo Jazz to embrace the musical scenes of East Malaysia, Brunei Darussalam and the Kalimantan provinces of Indonesia, which also have a significant jazz following.

It is interesting to note that the oil-rich city is also host to the Miri Country Music Fest, billed as Southeast Asia’s only country music festival, making it a virtual music hub in the world’s thirdbiggest island.

Melinau-themed Mulu Marriott Resort

Formally opening Festival Day 1 was the US-based Fluorescent Collective comprised of young musicians dabbling in fusion genres made more colorful by their diverse Asian and American ancestries, which starred Sarawak-born award-winning violinist Nisa Addina who showcased her virtuosity in the fiddle.

Cabocuba Jazz kept the musical momentum with their amalgam of melancholic Cape Verde melodies and Cuban dance rhythms. While based in the Netherlands, its members and their music are rooted in Cuba and Cape Verde melodies, creating a unique subgenre from two continents. Their lead vocalist Dina Medina was named “Best Female Singer of Cape Verde” in 2012.

Music shifted into an Afro-Carribean accent as Dutch trio Delgres took the stage, bringing their

ensemble of Delta Blues influenced

by Guadeloupe, Louisiana Blues and everything in between.

Cape Jazz Band, an all-star group from the cream of Cape Town’s jazz scene and credited for the “jazzification” of South Africa’s capital city, displayed their musical wares as they drew the curtains down on the festival’s opening day.

Other legends who hogged the limelight were 20-year-old Osaka Monaurail, Japan’s funkiest orchestra who still brings their “superheavy funk” music led by its front man, Nakata, who is a jazz personality in his own right.

Solo sensations who took center stage were Indonesian jazz superstar Idang Rasjidi and the multiawarded Canadian pianist, composer and recording artist Laila Biali, whose talent did not escape the admiration of British

rock icon Sting.

Moreover, trumpeter Michael Simon brought in his “Asian Connection” brass and piano trio to sail into uncharted musical waters.

Raising the curtains of the two-day extravaganza were Riam School Brass Band, Miri Orchestra and Choir Society, Zuhaili Quarter and Chung Hua Marching Band, which are considered the rising stars and heirs-apparent in the Malaysian jazz scene.

As an immersion to the vast ocean of jazz, visitors were treated to preconcert workshops on contemporary keyboard styles, a percussion clinic, concert-production lectures, as well as evening gigs, which served as sneak preview to the festival.

With the confluence of diving, caving and all that jazz, Miri is undoubtedly among my merriest places on earth.

Wild South African adventure with Citi PayLite

E

XPERIENCE a wild and breathtaking adventure in South Africa with the Bucket List promotion of Citi Credit Cards and Ark Travel Express. Travel to South Africa for four nights and get two additional nights free, plus you can pay for your trip with zero-percent Citi PayLite terms.

See South Africa’s abundant wildlife, along with hundreds of its exotic bird species in its fourth-largest national park, the Pilanesberg Big 5. Visit the academic city of Pretoria, where nature and dynamic lifestyle coexist, before heading to the Sun City, a premier destination dotted by luxury hotels and tourist attractions.

Stop by the Carnivore restaurant for a unique eat-all-you-can meal served on swords. Walk off your hearty meal by taking a stroll along the vibrant Johannesburg, the largest city in South Africa.

Through Ark Travel Bucket List promotion, you will also visit the famous Nelson Mandela

Square, V&A Waterfront, Cape Point Funicular, Neethlingshof, Cape Town City, Table Mountain Cableway and Canal Walk Shopping Center. You can also meet some blubbery friends at Seal Island Hout Bay and Boulders Penguin Colony, and taste special South African cuisines at Meloncino Ristorante, Fish Hoek Galley, Lord Neethling Restaurant and City Grill Steakhouse.

Complete your tour with a full-day trip to Cape Wineland, where you can enjoy wine tasting against a backdrop of century-old architecture and beautiful scenery. You can also take a trek to Cape Point, which is world-famous for its mountainous and scenic landforms.

Invite a friend or a loved one with you and experience all these with Citi PayLite for only $2,778 per person based on twin sharing. Book at Ark Travel Express now until June 30. Travel period is ongoing until September 30.

For more information, log on to www. citibank.com.ph/mybucketlist.

Journey

»life on the go

Editor: Tet Andolong

Sunday, June 18, 2017 A11

Traversing a sneaky mountain

I

Story by Cedrix S. Hay | Photos by Faye Pablo

N pain you gain strength— basically, that’s how you’ll survive a day or two at Mount Daraitan.

I wouldn’t have had the slightest hint of its existence if not for my friend—my colleague to be exact—who further planned this journey. We were four then, but only the two of us made it for some reasons. Moving on, a first in our lives, it took us tons of courage to try mountain-climbing without thinking about the whats and ifs, not until we were on the spot surrendering our all to nature.

Easier said than done, be it a rookie or pro, conquering the world above heights is only few steps away. But how few is few?

Google says 739 meters above sea level. Only a fraction of the Sierra Madre range, Mount Daraitan covers the massive grounds of Tanay, Rizal, connecting to the far-flung town of General Nakar, Quezon. Not only that, the province of Rizal is also a trekking and hiking sanctuary with its interconnected group of mountains reaching as far as Laguna de Bay. Now, that’s too much for a race of your life.

A three- to four-hour walk is done before reaching the summit. There are two trails to choose from: the shorter one that leads to the middle part, and the longer one that passes through the mountain’s entire curve. Yet, depending on the person’s stamina, the early bird may finish last, and the late comer may even pass you by without notice, or vice versa. Time is of the essence, so better start the ascent before sunrise, or let the heat be trapped in your body and cause your untimely “rest”.

On the way atop

According to Miss Imelda, our tour guide that day, not all climbers have gone to the mountain's summit. Some gave up in the middle; others decline to continue even when they are about to begin.

The same goes with my friend who, upon reaching a quarter of the climb, would have fainted if we did not let her take a seat for few min-

utes. Both of us were not used to brisk walking for hours, but a few techniques helped us pull ourselves together:

Don’t talk too much

The higher the altitude, the bigger the chunk of potential energy losses in our body, same with the intake of oxygen. Since Mount Daraitan, considering its Level 4 difficulty for amateurs, has four campsites, each with 30 minutes to an hour or so of estimated walking distance, try not to speak when you don’t have to say something good.

Breathe in, breathe out

Just because you’re making a record for yourself doesn’t mean you should entirely put yourself in extreme danger. Having ample air intake prevents the body from suffering oxygen shortage due to lower concentration, if not given enough time to rest, oxygen shortage may cause anything from a headache to heart failure.

Anyway, the cold dew of Mount Daraitan at 6 in the morning gives you a refreshing breath of life before reaching the first station— the underground grotto. You’ll definitely not want to miss the chill outside of the Metro.

Slow down the pace, then

We were the last in our group to fully complete the route. I was feeling good then, though caught off-guard at the downhill, but my climbing partner almost cried and slid in pain, injuring herself while sauntering the rocky road to Tinipak River. Before that, Miss Imelda, with her utmost hospitability, gave us hours of rest—almost a sleepover—at the second and third stopovers.

In contrast to the plains way above, Mount Daraitan is blessed with a steep slope on their way to the river, challenging those core muscle groups to their extent. So, better not to fracture your legs and

at the summit

Start-OFF point of trek

arms on your descent. This would mean a shame you wouldn’t want to tell, right?

Stretch, and just flex

Before proceeding, it is best to have a 10- to 15-minute stretching first to lighten up those uneasy muscles and joints, and let your blood f low smoothly; daily short walks will also do. Having cramps and sprains is your least concern in the middle of fun, right?

Stay wet

Don’t get us wrong. Having at least 3 liters of bottled water is enough to replenish our drained bodies. Better be warned: Try not to drink too much or bring those empty bottles with you. No need to ask what to do next.

It’s all in your head

We’ve conquered that ninehour parade with our heavy equipment and bodies bathing in our own sweat, in pursuit of our own happiness, yeah. I wasn't even bothered to be the last in line, for all I cared about was to live in the moment, while my partner sufferred from a mental breakdown.

Asking yourself first definitely helps assess your readiness physically and mentally. However, never commit to the things that you aren’t well-prepared for and eager to do. We didn’t give up; trailing the path to Mount Daraitan pushed our limits to the extreme, yet, we’ve personally made it until the end.

Rock formations at Tinipak River

‘Clean and Green’ as you leave

The Provincial Tourism Office of Tanay strictly provides measures on maintaining the sanctity of Mount Daraitan. Kuya Willy, as known to guests, is the chief tourist guide, and is responsible for the review of “No Garbage” policy before heading to the climb.

With its reserved tropical forest, caves, springs and natural pools that have made an ecotour-

ism location for the province, the 11th Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP) of the Department of Tourism (DOT) have recognized on October 27, 2016, the municipal government of Tanay as the first runner-up for Best Tourism-Related LGU Award, with Jeffrey Pino as Most Outstanding Tourism Officer. The district of Palompon, Leyte, was last year’s champion in the municipal category for three years in a row,

cited by ATOP-DOT as a Hall of Famer, according to the Philippine Information Agency.

Even though it’s for beginners, I would consider Mount Daraitan as a place for people who could handle themselves. This above-sea level mountain will test your stamina, presence of mind and body coordination; its slope downward is way harder to traverse than its way upward. And we’re so grateful that we didn't give up on ourselves.

Blissful beginnings at Two Seasons Coron D

ESTINATION weddings are becoming increasingly popular for couples who want to have something different for the start of their forever afters. Two Seasons Coron Island Resort and Spa is a perfect choice for aisle-bound couples who want to hold their dream weddings in a private place.

Two Seasons Coron lsland Resort and Spa is a secluded venue that basks in the allure of nature with a breathtaking seaside backdrop perfect for special occasions, such as a dream wedding. It also has a sophisticated level of guest service and special touches for an unforgettable celebration of love, life and laughter.

The property is nestled among mangroves and surrounded by lush tropical gardens with gorgeous views of cliff formations, where couples have the option of a picturesque garden wedding, a romantic sunset nuptial by the beach or intimate chapel rites.

These venues transform into magical settings with tasteful décor, such as seasonal flowers and a customized arch grand entourage entrance. An officiating priest or a minister can also be provided by the resort.

A magical reception

The reception that can be suited to the couple’s theme will be put

This spectacular view of the sea is the perfect backdrop for a beach wedding at Two Seasons Coron Island Resort and Spa.

together by the resort’s events team, who will assist the couple in planning down to the minutest detail.

Wedding packages and buffet menus are available to make the planning a breeze, and these are already inclusive of a specially designed three-tiered wedding cake, tropical drinks, a bottle of sparkling wine for the ceremonial toast, a beautiful cake table and floral arrangements for that romantic ambience.

Every celebration deserves a memorable meal, and the Two Seasons culinary team offers a

lavish feast with an elegant menu featuring exquisite flavors and specialties that include Filipino favorites and the best of continental cuisine. For a sit-down reception, the couple and their entourage can look forward to a dégustation composed of amuse-bouche, salad appetizer, soup, sorbet, delightful entrées and scrumptious desserts.

For their big day, the resort is treating the couple to a two-night stay at the Sandbar Bungalow, one of the more romantic and private accommodations located at the very tip of the island where

Luxurious accommodations at the Sandbar Bungalow

the sandbar meets the islet.

Here, they can enjoy their own private beach cove that is just a few steps from their villa, and an outdoor Jacuzzi built into natural rock formations. ln addition, Two Seasons is offering a roundtrip land and boat transfers, a complimentary breakfast and a Narra Spa massage.

A destination like no other

Two Seasons Resort and Spa lays claim to the title of the first ecofriendly luxury island resort in Coron, Palawan, with its harmoni-

ous balance of elements—coastlines bordering tropical waters teeming with marine life; environmentally sound architecture built seamlessly into natural sanctuaries; thrilling sports adventures and relaxing spa sessions; and vibrant reefs that thrive among massive underwater shipwrecks.

Among the enjoyable amenities for the couple and their guests are the world-class Narra Spa and the beautiful 600 square-meter swimming pool.

Thrill-seekers can choose from any of the water sports offered

at the resort, such as stand-up paddle boarding, wake boarding, kite boarding, water skiing, sport fishing, banana-boat ride, snorkeling and wind surfing. Two Seasons also takes pride in its Professional Association of Diving Instructors-managed dive facility, the Hydrobob Submersible Scooters and the Molokini transparent kayak. Indoor activities include board and computer games, billiards and a videoke bar for those musically inclined. www.twoseasonsresorts.com.

Journey BusinessMirror

»life on the go

A12 Sunday, June 18, 2017

Editor: Tet Andolong

Cuba Libre: Maltiado, Che and alternative reality Philippines

THE TOURISM ADVOCATE (First of two parts)

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Photos by Brad Geiser

HAT if I told you that the Philippines has a parallel soul sister where the similarities and differences are unnerving. That place is Cuba.

Cuba

In my work designing tourism branding campaign strategies for places like Mindanao and areas that carry the most risk, my take on special situation areas vary.

I see opportunities rather than threats. Cuba had only been offi-

nization for centuries, picked up by the Americans in the same deal that netted them the Philippines, who ultimately rejected American ownership and also had a long-term relationship with a strongman leader for

cially open to tourism for 30 days when we stepped into its tiny airport. There is nothing more satisfying than debunking “risky” travel labels early.

Imagine a tropical island nation, a product of Spanish colo-

whom there are divided feelings.

You find what Intramuros could have been if the devastation of war didn’t visit upon us when you walk though Havana. Its Spanish colonial architecture jostling with art deco and early American modernization create an otherworldly effect only a Filipino can really appreciate.

This is the closest thing to the frustrated time traveler in me: years of isolation and economic decline render an impression of a great crumbling wedding cake; beautiful in parts, rubble in others.

Black-market food

While Cuba is in the process of opening up to the West, no one is exactly sure what that will ultimately mean, or what the rules for the new economy will be, least of all the entrepreneurs themselves.

So, technically, most restaurants operate at some level of gray market. Some grayer than others. At one point our guide took us to one of his favorite spots. Immediately we could see this place was different. The dark wood furnishings were all new. The portions were generous, and the food quality was excellent. They made for us a partly brined pork chop that is among the best experiences I have ever had with that cut. The bill was substantial but still quite surprisingly value for money. I asked our guide how this was possible given the limitations. He gave a jaded smile and told us that the real owner lived in Miami and is trying to bring his business back to Cuba by quietly importing everything from the US. He told us that it’s necessary in order to prepare food up to foreign standards—a little blackmarket dining to make the guests feel at home.

There is just not much food in the country. There are a few emerging restaurants in the new tourism-friendly Cuba like Carbon, but don’t expect the culinary depth you experience in Manila, it’s not there yet. A couple of things to try are the Cuban version of lechon, which is more flavorful than ours, and brewing derivative called Malta (it’s like soda with a soul) mixed with condensada into a really delicious combination called Maltiado.

Sure, it’s the home of the daiquiri and you can step into one of the many bars claiming to be Hemingway’s second home (he is both god and ghost in this town), but they are ordinary and available everywhere, whereas Malta, for reasons I cannot fathom, is not.

Another thing to try in Cuba is fresh lobster, emphasis on “fresh”

Intramuros by the sea

A little bit of Detroit and the 1950s in Havana

The street lechon in Cuba beats the Philippines by a mile

because most will try to sell you frozen, which just won’t cut it. But if you can get it, it’s sweet and juicy and totally worth it.

Style Afro-Cuban spirituality

A spiritual journey in Cuba, unexpected yet inevitable: Santeria, Regla de Ocha. As a spiritual practice rooted within a world of oppression, whether it’s the African slaves from Spanish or other forms of revolutions so pervasive in the Cuban collective psyche, the Santeria as a spiritual practice is shrouded in secrecy.

After centuries of underground existence, so deeply honored to have been part of a Santeria, celebration and practice in my last weekend in Cuba—a combination of humbling sincerity, sheer tenacity and the unrelenting pursuit of the unknown and spiritual.

Unlike in the major religions, there is no unified written text like the bible or Koran, everything is passed via oral tradition and secret practice. To have been allowed into this sacred secret practice is a spiritual privilege that I cannot begin to articulate.

Within the confines of the “real Havana” in the bowels of a private home-temple is a sacred space that is permeated with achè, a mystic, primordial energy, divine knowledge of everyone who came before us, and the sweet smell of Orishas (they say the presence of saints have a sweet flowery smell around them). My mind was experiencing major cognitive dissonance between the physical surroundings and the smell of the sacred. Too sacred and spiritual for any Facebook photo or Instagram video.

Of that sacred weekend, I only have this photo with Carmen, a Santeria priestess (es tu Mama en Cuba) for a two-day coming together that has provided me with life-long clarity and an affirmation of purpose.