BusinessMirror March 05, 2021

Taal eruption, typhoons cost ₧113B–Neda

By Cai U. Ordinario

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HE Taal Volcano eruption and succeeding typhoons last year alone cost the Philippines P113.4 billion in damage and losses, according to the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda).

In a statement at the Ready to Rebuild Program Launch, Acting Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Karl Kendrick T. Chua said the amount does not include billions in losses due to the lockdowns that were imposed to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

Chua said between 2010 and 2019, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported that disasters cost the Philippine economy some P463 billion.

“Aggravating the impact of these natural disasters is the Covid-19 pandemic.

The community lockdowns that had to be imposed to slow down the spread of the virus and strengthen the healthcare system disrupted the majority of our eco-

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nomic activities. All of these led to a -9.5 percent GDP growth rate in 2020, the lowest since 1947,” Chua said.

“These disasters and emergencies led to billions worth of government resources being used for cash assistance, rehabilitation and construction efforts which could have been spent for other programs to improve the lives of our fellow citizens and promote a more sustainable development,” he added.

As the country’s socioeconomic planning agency, Chua said Neda advocates for greater investment in disaster risk reduction programs.

Chua said the Philippines needs to strengthen predisaster planning, particularly disaster mitigation and preparedness efforts.

The acting Neda chief said proper planning is necessary to identify appropriate interventions and a basis for budget allocations.

Chua said the Neda Rehabilita-

CHUA: “We do not want to repeat our mistakes.

We have to put emphasis on preparedness activities and best practices.” tion and Planning Guide, adopted by the NDRRMC in 2019, will help in this regard.

The guide builds on the lessons from the 2017 Marawi Siege and 2013 Supertyphoon Yolanda, as well as “build back better” principles.

“Proper planning is key to guide the recovery efforts and build more resilient communities through improved struc-

tures, services and governance,” Chua said. “We do not want to repeat our mistakes. We have to put emphasis on preparedness activities and best practices.”

Apart from this, World Bank Country Director Ndiame Diop said the Ready to Rebuild Program that NDRRMC launched will help build a culture of preparedness in the country.

Diop said the program will build the capacity of decision-makers and technical staff at the national and local levels to craft recovery and rehabilitation plans.

He said this kind of program is still needed even with Filipinos showing “admirable resilience” during natural and manmade disasters in the past.

“When disasters happen, it is best not to be caught off-guard and with no plans or financial resources to recover. Local leaders should equip themselves with adequate knowledge and tools to mobilize quickly and provide just-in-time support to their people,” Diop said.

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TO BOUNCE BACK IN ’21-‘22 Govt’s bid to optimize revenue from Pogo backed

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See “BSP,” A2

VEHICLES undergo automated testing at the Triple A Private Motor Vehicle Inspection Center in Valenzuela City as a replacement for emission testing centers required by the Land Transportation Office for vehicle registration. PMVIC operators have appealed to President Duterte to lift the suspension of the vehicle inspection scheme. NONOY LACZA

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By Bianca Cuaresma

HE corporate sector is expected to start showing sustained signs of recovery starting this year and will continue up until 2022, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said.

See “BSP,” A2

PESO EXCHANGE RATES n US 48.5310

D.A. EYES ABOVE-P90B BUDGET TO ALLOW FOR BUFFER

By Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas

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HE Department of Agriculture (DA) said it is eyeing a budget next year higher than P90 billion to address current problems of the sector and to put in place a “buffer fund” that would allow it to

procure farm and fishery products during emergencies.

The DA said it has started its internal budget hearings to finalize its 2022 budget proposal for submission to and scrutiny by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).

In a virtual press briefing on Thursday, the DA disclosed that

it will “definitely” ask for a budget higher than its current P90billion outlay in order to address the issues brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic, and African Swine Fever (ASF), among others.

“We need to exert efforts to convince our congressmen and senators to increase [the budget] Continued on A2

By Butch Fernandez

INANCE officials on Thursday defended related bills taxing Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) in a move seen to provide additional funds for the cash-strapped government, whose revenue base was eroded during the pandemic’s crippling lockdowns.

Appearing at a virtual hearing of the Senate Ways and Means Committee chaired by Sen. Pia Cayetano, officials led by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) sought timely enactment of revenue-raising measures to “address the pandemic and pull the economy out of recession.”

This, as the BIR said that its projected collections from the POGO sector in 2021 could contract by over 45 percent.

It reported a 68.63-percent plunge in January 2021 figures (P372.2 million from P1.43 billion in the same period in 2020), as the impact of prolonged quarantines hit many gaming operations.

Related story in Banking, B3, “Revenue collected from POGOs to contract by 45.37% this year”.

Among the pending measures under consideration are Senate Bill 1295, authored by Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto, seeking to establish a POGO tax regime for POGOs; and Senate Bill 2076 filed by Sen. Imee Marcos entitled, “An Act Taxing Persons Engaged in Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations adding a new section in the National Internal Revenue Code,” as well as House Bill 5777, imposing levies on the offshore entities operating in the country, estimated to raise P144 billion in fresh revenues.

Awaiting its Senate counterpart version, HB 5777 was approved in the House of Representatives in February, and aims to impose a 5-percent tax on gross receipts, and 25-percent tax on salaries and other remunerations received by POGO foreign workers earning P600,000 annually.

Priority bills

THE proposal for a separate tax regime for POGOs was listed among the priority

See “Pogo,” A2

n JAPAN 0.4536 n UK 67.7347 n HK 6.2567 n CHINA 7.5030 n SINGAPORE 36.4265 n AUSTRALIA 37.7329 n EU 58.5575 n SAUDI ARABIA 12.9371

Source: BSP (March 4, 2021)

News BusinessMirror

A2 Friday, March 5, 2021

Pogo…

Continued from A1

measures of the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (Ledac), as lawmakers backed measures to tap additional source of revenue in the wake of last January’s Supreme Court-issued temporary restraining order, blocking imposition of a 5-percent franchise tax on POGOs, as provided in the Bayanihan to Recover as One Act or Bayanihan 2.

The High Court ruled the tax as a “rider” or a subject matter not covered by the law’s title, and thus illegal.

At Thursday’s hearing, however, Minority Leader Franklin M. Drilon sought the confirmation of BIR Deputy Commissioner Arnel Guballa, that the proposed amendments to the National Internal Revenue Code (NIRC), once passed, would cure the problem with the “rider” and allow BIR to proceed with collecting from the POGOs the disallowed tax.

Finance Department officials joined economic managers in pressing passage of enabling legislation seeking to tax POGOs which were deemed among the “under-tapped revenue sources for the cashstrapped government.”

The move to maximize revenue from the POGO sector was begun in 2019 by Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III, who led an interagency initiative to reconcile data and systems among the Department of Labor and Employment, Bureau of Immigration and the BIR, among others. This resulted in a sharp increase in the number of companies and POGO workers, previously under the radar, but were forced to comply with government regulations, subsequently boosting state revenue.

Among the senators who expressed support for the continuing initiatives to optimize collections from the sector were Recto, Economic Affairs panel chief Marcos and Sen. Manuel Lapid.

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400K more doses due from China; 9K Pinoys got jabs

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By Samuel P. Medenilla

RESIDENT Duterte said on Thursday China will donate 400,000 more doses of Covid-19 vaccine for the government’s ongoing inoculation drive.

“China will give us another 400,000, making their donation to this country 1 million,” Duterte said in a speech for the inauguration of new school buildings in Valenzuela City.

Earlier, 600,000 doses of donated vaccines by Sinovac Biotech were airlifted to Manila by the Chinese government, arriving in the country on Sunday.

Earlier this week, chief implementer of the government’s national policy on Covid-19 and vaccine czar Carlito G. Galvez said the Chinese embassy already made another commitment to the Philippine government.

However, he said he will let the President make the announcement.

9,000 vaccinees

OVER 9,000 people have availed themselves of the free vaccines in the government’s ongoing nationwide immunization drive.

Citing data from the Department of Health (DOH), Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said in an online press briefing that a total of 9,077 individuals were immunized using the 600,000 doses of Sinovac-Biotech jabs from March 1 to 3, 2021.

Of the said doses, 100,000 are allocated for government uniformed personnel, while the remaining 500,000 will be used for the priority sector, particularly medical workers.

The vaccination centers that registered the highest number of

BSP… Continued from A1

In a press briefing on Thursday, BSP Governor Benjamin Diokno said they have been closely monitoring the corporate sector, especially its potential impact on the local economy and on policy making.

“The corporate sector is expected to bounce back in 2021 and 2022 amid the gradual easing of business restrictions and the recovery of the Philippine economy,” Diokno said.

“The BSP is closely monitoring the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the corporate sector as its financial conditions have significant implications to the formulation of sound and well-informed monetary, financial and economic policies,” the governor added.

The pandemic has taken its toll on the corporate sector as firms reported net losses and declines in net income in 2020, reflecting the impact of the crisis, which forced prolonged lockdowns that paralyzed many business operations and restricted mobility.

‘Strong but partial’ recovery

PRESIDENT Duterte poses with Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian, as they stand in front of a military plane carrying Sinovac vaccines from China at the Villamor Air Base in Manila on Sunday, February 28, 2021. The Philippines received its first batch of Covid-19 vaccine Sunday, among the last in Southeast Asia to secure the critical doses despite having the second-highest number of coronavirus infections and deaths in the hard-hit region.

TOTO LOZANO/ MALACAÑANG PRESIDENTIAL PHOTOGRAPHERS DIVISION VIA AP

vaccine recipients during the period are the Veterans Memorial Medical Center (2,361); University of the Philippines-Philippine General Hospital (1,184); and all of the sites from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (1,510).

In a separate briefing, Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles said they expected more people will avail themselves of the Covid-19 vaccine, especially since they already registered 222,783 individuals on the

masterlist of vaccine beneficiaries.

Prominent medical workers and several government officials, including Galvez and NTF deputy chief implementer and testing czar Vivencio Dizon, had themselves inoculated publicly to ensure the efficacy of the vaccine.

The government is targeting to inoculate 1.7 million healthcare workers in addition to 50,000 government uniformed personnel this month.

IN a separate statement, Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) lead economist Jun Neri said recovery will likely be “strong but partial” in 2021. The strength of this recovery is also pinned on the government’s ability to roll out vaccines this year.

“We are expecting a 6.8-percent GDP growth for 2021, but our assumptions there are that the vaccine rollout will be able to cover not less than one-fourth of the population by end 2021, that the stimulus is meaningful enough, and that mobility will be on a sustained uptrend,” Neri said.

In terms of total output, Neri said that the country’s 2021 GDP will not yet be at the same level as the previous year’s GDP. “We will only be able to fully recover sometime in the later part of 2022. And that’s what makes the Philippines quite unique. It is because we saw the biggest decline in Southeast Asia in overall GDP,” he said.

Neri emphasized that the first indicator of economic improvement is mobility, just as production responds positively to the easing of quarantine measures.

DA eyes above-₧90B budget to allow for buffer PHL joins Continued from A1

for these critical sectors: livestock, poultry, fisheries and high-value crops,” the DA added.

In a separate statement on Thursday, Agriculture Secretary William D. Dar included in their 2022 budget proposal a “buffer fund to bankroll procurement of farm and fishery products during times of emergency.”

Implementing Agencies of Republic Act 7581 or the Price Act, such as the DA, are allowed to have a buffer fund in their annual appropriations to finance emergency measures such as procurement and importation of basic commodities in times of shortage of supply, among other related measures.

Under Section 9 of the Price Act, implementing agencies “may procure, purchase, import, or stockpile any basic necessity or prime commodity, devise ways and means of distributing them for sale at reasonable prices in areas where there is shortage of supply or a need to effect changes in its prevailing price.”

As he opened a five-day physical and virtual internal budget hearing for 2022, Dar exhorted his staff, “Let us regroup, rethink, and put in

place key strategies with the objective of attaining positive growth for the sector starting this year and onto 2022, recovering from a flat growth last year.”

He reiterated that the DA is eyeing to post 2.5-percent growth for the agriculture and fisheries sector this year.

Long-term solutions

IN a statement issued on Thursday, the Philippine Chamber on Agriculture and Food Inc. (Pcafi) said they have been “petitioning before Congress long-term development plans for the hog, poultry and livestock sectors, not just short-term solutions to crises like ASF.” “It is unfair that poultry and livestock gets only an average of 3 percent from the budget of DA, while it contributes an estimated 35 percent in total agricultural production revenue. On the other hand, palay gets the whopping 40 percent of budget despite contributing only 22 percent in production revenue,” Pcafi said.

“Moreover, livestock and poultry actually accounts for a significant 2.5 percent of the Philippines’s total gross domestic product revenue generation. That makes it a critical mover in national development,” Pcafi added.

The group noted that the agriculture sector gets barely 2 percent of the total national budget, while contributing 9 percent to 10 percent of the GDP. “With a P4.5-trillion 2021 budget, DA should get at least P405 billion in the national budget; livestock and poultry with at least P112.5 billion,” it said.

calls vs state detention as tool vs govts

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Locsin replied, “I was told not to sign because it is non-binding. I said good things start that way: optional. Until avoiding the norm makes you look like a [expletive] jungle bunny; then almost like an afterthought it becomes binding law.”

Fr. Aquino said, “I have no doubt that this proscription will soon coalesce into jus cogens: a peremptory norm of international law.”

The declaration, launched last February 15, was led by Canada, which has accused China of arbitrarily detaining its nationals Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor.

It aims to protect citizens of all countries who live, work and travel abroad and calls upon states to take “concrete steps” to prevent and put an end to harsh conditions in detention, denial of access to legal counsel, torture, and other inhuman treatment or punishment.

However, it was Canada that first detained Huawei Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou two years ago at the Vancouver airport, when she was arrested

by Canadian police.

She faces extradition to the US where she has been charged with bank and wire fraud.

Meng, 48, has remained under house arrest in Vancouver and claims she’s innocent of the fraud charges for allegedly misleading HSBC about Huawei’s business dealings in Iran.

The arrest on December 1, 2018, followed strong trade policies lodged by the Trump administration against Chinese companies, including Huawei, one of China’s largest companies and the world’s largest telecoms equipment maker.

Supporters of Huawei and Meng, also known as Sabrina Meng, believe she is the victim of politics and said the charges against her do not follow normal US Department of Justice procedures.

Recto L. Mercene

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The Nation BusinessMirror

Duterte to visit ‘liberated’ villages in at least 3 regions

By Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz @joveemarie

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RESIDENT Duterte is expected to personally visit today (Friday) barangay clusters that were recently “liberated” from the clutches of New People’s Army rebels and are beneficiaries of a Congress-approved Barangay Development Program (BDP), the National Security Council said on Thursday.

In a news statement, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. said President Duterte, as chairman of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) will be visiting on Friday, Region 10 and then Region 8 and Region 4 on the following weeks this month.

“President Duterte intends to visit each region in the country on a weekly basis for consultations and dialogues,as well as to grace the regional implementation of the Barangay Development Program,” Esperon said.

During the visit, the President will be accompanies by Cabinet members whose respective agencies have initiated projects in the identified barangays, along with governors, city mayors, provincial representatives of the League of Municipalities, provincial representatives of the League of Barangays and the chairmen of recipient barangays.

“We are now pushing forward with our barangay-level initiatives, with the President meeting barangay officials and chairpersons of the 822 barangays that will be receiving the BDP. As chairperson

of the NTF-ELCAC, the President shall be meeting with local chief executives, including the barangay-beneficiaries of the BDP to present to the people of the region the package of projects they are to receive,” Esperon added.

At least 822 barangays that have been “cleared” of NPA influence are included in the BDP, and each is expected to receive P20 million for this year to be used for specified projects intended for development.

The release of funds for the BDP is covered by Local Budget Circular 135 and 135-A from the Department of Budget and Management. This circular details the guidelines on the release and utilization of the Local Government Support Fund-Support to the BDP of the NTF-ELCAC this year.

Projects earmarked for each barangay include P12 million farm-to-market roads; P3 million school buildings; P2 million water sanitation; P1.5 million skills and livelihood training; and P1.5 million health sanitations.

“TheseprogramsareaimedataddressingissuesthattheCPP-NPA[Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA] utilize in their propaganda and recruitment, such as poverty, isolation, diseases, hunger and lack of educational and livelihood opportunities,” Esperon said.

Esperon also expressed confidence that with the President himself leading the program, there will be quick degradation of the capabilities of the insurgents.

He said eventually the entire country will be cleared from rebel threats.

Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug • Friday, March 5, 2021 A3

Phivolcs hoists Alert Level 1 in restive Mt. Pinatubo; no imminent eruption seen

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By Ashley Manabat | Correspondent

LARK FREEPORT—The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said in its 7 a.m. bulletin on Thursday that Alert Level 1 has been raised in areas around Mt. Pinatubo.

Phivolcs said Alert Level 1 means there is low-level unrest in Pinatubo but no imminent eruption is foreseen despite the observance of persistent seismic activity.

Phivolcs said a total of 1,722 imperceptible earthquakes beneath the Pinatubo edifice were detected since January 2020.

Situated 87 kilometers northwest of Manila, Mt. Pinatubo is located at the boundaries of Zambales, Tarlac and Pampanga provinces.

It was thought to be a dormant volcano until its eruption in June 1991, one of the worst volcanic eruption in the country’s history. The eruption sent tens of thousands living in communities around it to flee for safety as volcanic ashes spit out by the volcano

rained over Central Luzon, covering many areas in the main island with ashfall.

Years after its eruption, debris from Mt. Pinatubo continues to flow in the event of rain in the form of lahar, burying houses and other abandoned structures as rivers and streams overflow. Vast tracts of agricultural lands were also buried under volcanic ash and for years were rendered unproductive.

“The earthquakes ranged between ML0.5 and ML2.8 in magnitude; all earthquakes recorded are associated with rock-fracturing processes,” Phivolcs said.

Carbon dioxide, temperatures and acidity showed slight increases or remained unchanged, it said.

It added: “Given the persistence

of seismic activity, Department of Science and Technology-Phivolcs is raising the status of Pinatubo Volcano from Alert Level 0 to Alert Level 1. This means that there is low-level unrest that may be related to tectonic processes beneath the volcano and that no imminent eruption is foreseen.”

Phivolcs also advised that entry into the Pinatubo crater area “must be conducted with extreme caution and should be avoided if possible.”

Communities and concerned local government units surrounding Mt. Pinatubo were told to be prepared for both earthquake and volcanic hazards and to revisit their disaster preparedness plans.

Phivolcs likewise discouraged visits to the crater lake. The Philippine Air Force secures the entry to the volcano via Barangay Sta. Juliana in Capas, Tarlac.

Aeta communities closest to the volcano are in Barangay Inararo in Porac, Pampanga; Sitio Tarukan in Barangay Sta. Juliana, Capas, Tarlac; and several villages in San Marcelino, Zambales.

Last January 27, 2021, Phivolcs notified the public and concerned authorities of recent earthquake activity in the Pinatubo Volcano.

Since January 20, 2021, the Pinatubo Volcano Network (PVN) and the

Philippine Seismic Network (PSN) have detected a total of 826 imperceptible earthquakes east-northeast of Pinatubo Volcano in the vicinities of the City of Mabalacat, Pampanga.

The strongest of these earthquakes occurred on January 25, 2021 at depths of 15 to 28 kilometers and ranged between ML1.0 and ML2.5 in magnitudes.

Based on the general distribution of located events, these earthquakes were generated along a segment of the Sacobia Lineament, a fault that was last active during the post-eruption period of 1991.

This development serves to remind us once again that several faults occur around the volcano and that these can generate earthquake activity that can be sometimes imperceptible and harmless but that can also sometimes be damaging.

On April 22, 2019, a M6.1 earthquake on the southern foot slopes of Pinatubo Volcano shook the Central Luzon region and caused fatalities and substantial damages to buildings, roads and other structures.

It can be recalled that after nine weeks of unrest, Mt. Pinatubo erupted on June 15, 1991, accompanied by Typhoon Yunya that dispersed ash to surrounding countries.

With Jonathan L. Mayuga

Groups condemn attack on Iloilo lawyer Remains of 4 Pinoy oil workers abducted, later

By Joel R. San Juan @jrsanjuan1573

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EVERAL groups condemned on Thursday the attack against lawyer Angelo Karlo “AK” Guillen, one of the lawyers in the 37 petitions seeking to declare as unconstitutional the Anti-Terrorism law of 2020, who was stabbed in the head and at the back on Wednesday evening by two unidentified men in Iloilo City.

The National Union of Peoples’ Lawyers (NUPL) where Guillen also serves as assistant vice president in the Visayas, called on police authorities to immediately bring to justice those who were responsible for the attack.

Guillen, a human-rights lawyer, is also NUPL’s secretary-general in Panay.

“The brazen attack against the life of Atty. AK Guillen is an open and direct attack not only against the NUPL but also against members of the legal profession who chose to live and uphold their oath and duty

in the service of the people,” NUPL president Edre Olalia said.

“In one voice, let us condemn this latest attack and call for accountability for those responsible for the attempt on Atty. Guillen’s life. In one voice, let us all call for an end to this impunity,” he added.

The Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) said the attack against Guillen only proves that “the danger and terror“ real and asked the government to perform its mandate “to secure its citizens and international commitment to ensure that lawyers can do their job without fear, harassment or retribution.”

“We pray for his safety and wellbeing as he grapples to survive two stab wounds with 12-inch screw drivers on his head and back by two masked criminals who were picked up with two motorcycles right after the treacherous attack,” IBP National President Domingo Cayosa said.

“Inflicting violence on those who seek justice is criminality to the highest degree,” he added.

Two men wearing face masks and baseball caps reportedly attack Guillen at around 9:15 p.m. along Gen. Luna Street in Iloilo City.

According to the NUPL as of 11:03 p.m. of March 3, Guillen has been declared in stable condition at a local hospital.

Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Menardo Guevarra said they would wait for the opportunity to talk with Guillen before deciding if the Administrative Order 35 (AO 35) Task Force should be mobilized to conduct its own investigation.

The AO 35, headed by the DOJ, is an inter-agency committee (IAC) on Extrajudicial Killings (EJK) with the mandate to investigate summary killings, enforced disappearances, torture and other grave violations to the rights to life, liberty and security of persons.

Guillen is one of the legal counsels in the petition filed by the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan against the implementation of the Anti-Terrorism law of 2020 before the Supreme Court.

Comelec assures pre-poll info drive for Palawan plebiscite

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HE Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Thursday said it would tap local radio stations for the last leg of its information campaign on the Palawan plebiscite to address the alleged lack of awareness of voters on the said issue.

The poll body, however, said it may be unable to arrange a debate between the supporters and those opposing the proposed division of Palawan into three separate provinces as requested by election watchdog, Legal Network for Truthful Elections (LENTE) due to pandemic curbs.

Currently, Comelec Spokesman James Jimenez said their info drive

in Palawan remains “hyperlocal” since it is still being conducted through pulong-pulongan, or townhall meetings.

“But once we start airing our campaign, we will be hitting radio stations in Palawan throughout the week before the plebiscite. So look out for that,” Jimenez said in an online news briefing.

Comelec made the assurance after LENTE expressed concern over reports of limited knowledge of some voters in Palawan regarding the issues about the plebiscite.

Both pros and cons of the division of Palawan will be presented in their radio-based info drive, ac-

cording to Jimenez.

H o w e v e r, h e n o t e d , t h e y could not conduct the requested debate by LENTE due to quarantine restrictions.

The information campaign of Comelec for the Palawan plebiscite is set to end on March 11, 2021.

The plebiscite to be held on March 13, 2021 aims to determine if Republic Act 11259 or the Act Dividing the Province of Palawan into three provinces will be ratified or not.

Over 490,000 people from Palawan, except those from Puerto Princesa City, are expected to participate in the plebiscite.

Samuel P. Medenilla

executed by IS in Libya 6 yrs ago finally located

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ITH the help of Libyan authorities, the remains of four Filipino oil workers who were forcibly taken along with two coworkers from Austria and the Czech Republic by Islamic State (IS) extremists who attacked the Ghani Oil Field in southern Libya on March 6, 2015, have finally been located in a cemetery in the eastern coastal city of Derna on Monday.

Philippine Embassy in Tripoli Chargé d’Affaires and Head of Mission Elmer G. Cato said nothing much had been heard from the kidnapped foreign oil workers until two years later when a video showing their execution was found in a laptop seized from slain IS fighters in Derna. The six, who were employed by the Austrian contractor Value Added Oil Services (VAOS), had since been presumed dead although their bodies were never recovered.

Sometime in 2018, Chargé d’Affaires Cato said the Embassy was informed that the remains of the four missing Filipinos could be among those that have been recovered by the Libyan Red Crescent Society in various parts of Derna and later buried there.

However, due to the unstable security situation, the embassy was not able to send a team to Derna to search for the four Filipinos. It was only in October that Embassy officials were able to travel to Benghazi and request the assistance of authorities in finding the four.

On March 1, Libyan military authorities led embassy officials to the Dahr Ahmar Islamic Cemetery 10 kilometers from Derna, where they said Donato Santiago, Gregorio Titan, Roldan Blaza, and Wilson Eligue were buried after their bodies were recovered six years ago.

Cato said the Office of Migrant Workers Affairs has conveyed the lat-

AUTHORITIES in the eastern Libyan city of Derna point, the site where they buried four Filipinos and their Austrian and Czech coworkers who were kidnapped and later executed by Islamic State militants six years ago. The remains of the six oil workers were buried in a local cemetery that was visited on Monday by Chargé d’Affaires and Head of Mission Elmer G. Cato (fourth from left) of the Philippine Embassy in Tripoli. PHILIPPINE EMBASSY PHOTO BY ANABELLE BELTING

est development to the families in the Philippines of the four Filipinos and will make arrangements for forensics experts to assist in identifying the remains and bringing them home.

“After six long years, the families of our four kababayans will finally find closure,” Cato said. “We are indebted to our Libyan friends for making this possible.”

Acuzar’s New San Jose Builders donates boat for Pasig River ferry service

By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco Correspondent

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N a bid to boost ridership amid limited public transportation brought about by pandemic curbs in the Metropolis, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and Pasig

River Ferry Service (PRFS) bared the donation of a ferry boat to boost its fleet.

MMDA accepted M/B Vicente, a 50-seater ferry boat donated by New San Jose Builders Inc. (NSJBI) in a turnover ceremony at Guadalupe Ferry Station in Makati.

MMDA Chairman Benjamin “Ben-

hur” Abalos Jr., who had tested negative ofCovid-19onWednesdayafterhisexposure to San Juan Mayor Francis Zamora, who contracted the disease, thanked the NSJBI, headed by its chairman, Jose Acuzar, for the donation which, he said, is “expected to augment the shortage of ferryboatsforourday-to-dayoperations.”

In a news statement, Acuzar said that the NSJBI is honored to be a part of the solution to alleviate heavy traffic.

“The Pasig River Ferry Service is an effective alternative transportation that doesn’t just lessen the land vehicle volume but also promotes the beauty of the historic river,” he said.

The PRFS accommodated a total of 436,931 passengers from April 2014 to October 2019, which, as Abalos lamented, could have been higher if not for the recurrent problem on water hyacinths that oftentimes result in canceled or limited trips.

“We assure the public that we will

continue to improve the ferry service for a comfortable and safe riding experience of the public,” he said.

Abalos also said that he plans to double the ferry boats, shorten the waiting time of one hour to 30 minutes to encourage more passengers and open the Napindan dockyard in Taguig.

A4 Friday, March 5, 2021 • Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug

Economy BusinessMirror

DA eyes completion of ACEA facility for ‘safe’ agri imports by end of ’21

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By Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas

@jearcalas

HE Department of Agriculture (DA) said the country’s first border facility is now ready to begin construction after the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) and Manila International Container Port (MICP) cleared the P500-million project with completion eyed by end of the year.

In a news statement issued on Thursday, Agriculture Secretary William D. Dar said the DA is set to establish the first A g r ic u lt u ra l Com mod it y E xamination Area (ACEA) at the Manila International Container Terminal, South Harbor, Port of Manila this year.

Four other ACEAs will be constructed by the DA next year in the ports of Cebu, Batangas, Subic

and Davao, DA National Livestock Program Director Ruth MiclatSocano said.

In a separate news statement, the Philippine Chamber of Agriculture and Food Inc. (PCAFI) urged the government to fasttrack the construction of the ACEA to help in “arresting massive spread of African swine fever [ASF]-infected meat” in the country.

“ASF as we know comes from outside of our country. We are very strict and compliant with all protocols in our movements from within our soil. Yet we failed in the First Border on what is coming into our country,” Roger V. Navarro, president of Philippine Maze Federation Inc., a member of PCAFI, said.

“We are told there are obstacles to implement the First Border Control facility due to pending approval from the Philippine Ports Authority to give the area. So we are calling on PPA and the Department of Transportation [DOTr] to cooperate and help,” Navarro added.

PCAFI noted that the construction of the ACEA is long overdue.

The construction of the ACEAs was approved in a December 2019 Cabinet meeting.

In October last year, DA revealed that “legal and logistical barriers” were delaying the construction of the ACEA as it pointed out that “Building a government structure in a privately operated

congested port area is not an overnight task to accomplish.”

At that time, DA was still identif ying the 2,000 -squaremeter area for the construction of the ACEA. Nonetheless, the DA said it has been coordinating with concerned offices, such as the PPA, International Container Terminal Services Inc., and the Asian Terminals Inc., to fast-track the process.

The DA also said last year that it has started the groundwork for the establishment of other ACEA facilities at the international ports of Subic, Batangas, Cebu, and Davao. “ The first border inspection facility will serve as a one-stop shop for regulatory inspections of imported agricultural product, and a common facility for the DA’s Bureaus of Plant Industry [BPI], of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources [BFAR], and Bureau of Animal Industry to prevent the entr y of animal, fish, and plant diseases into the country,” it added.

Delivery of tunnel-boring machine to hasten completion of P12.2-B Kaliwa Dam project

By Samuel P. Medenilla

@sam_medenilla

T

HE government is targeting to fast-track the ongoing construction of the Kaliwa Dam project after the arrival of a much-awaited equipment by the second quarter of the year.

Citing the discussions during the Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles said that the tunnel-boring machine for the project is expected to arrive by May. “Once the tunnel-boring machine arrives, we will see faster progress on the project,” Nograles said during an online news briefing on Thursday.

The China-funded project worth P12.2 billion was originally set to start in 2019 and be completed by 2024.

However, its construction was delayed due to permit problems. With the current time line, the project is expected to be completed by 2025 instead.

The construction of the dam is being opposed by affected indigenous peoples’ groups and environmental advocates, citing its impact to vegetation and wildlife, displacement of several communities, location near a fault line, and hefty price, which will further add to public debt.

Pending projects

ONCE completed, Nograles said the Kaliwa Dam project will ensure the water security of the National Capital Region (NCR) and its surrounding areas.

He said other similar projects, which aim to supply more water to Luzon and are now in the works, include the Long Term Water Source Development

CLEARING OPS

for Metro Manila Project (Upper Kaliwa and Kanan River); East Bay water Supply Project-Phase 1; East Bay Water Supply Project-Phase 2; Wawa-Calawis Water Supply Project-Phase 1; and the Wawa-Calawis Water Supply Project-Phase 2.

“All together, these projects will be able to supply a total of 1,368 million liters per day, or MLD [to Luzon],” Nograles said.

NCR was hit with severe water shortages in recent years due to low rainfall in some parts of Luzon.

For this year at least, Nograles said, the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) assured President Duterte and members of the Cabinet that there will be no water shortage in NCR.

www.businessmirror.com.ph

TWG on broiler concerns formed

T

HE Department of Agriculture (DA) has formed a technical working group (TWG) tasked to address current concerns of the broiler industry, including collation and analysis of data on supply and demand of chicken meat.

Agriculture Secretary William D. Dar issued Special Order (SO) 197 dated March 3 that authorized the creation of the TWG for broiler concerns.

Under the SO, the TWG would be chaired by Bureau of Animal Industry Assistant Director for Production and Research Officer in Charge Dr. Rene C. Santiago.

The members of the TWG include Dr. Roland Fajardo, Dr. Jonathan Sabiniano, Mr. Alvin Dirain and Mr. Mark Villatema.

Dar has instructed the TWG to collate and analyze data related to the broiler sector, including broiler meat supply and demand and costing on the production of broiler meat.

The TWG is also tasked to develop plans and programs to operationalize the DA broiler sector road map and, at the same time, responsible for the “coordination and consultation with concerned stakeholders in addressing concerns of the broiler sector.”

The TWG will also “spearhead the development of policy recommendations for the sector in collaboration with relevant DA offices and agencies,” according to the SO. Sought for comments, United Broiler Raisers Association (Ubra) President Elias Jose Inciong said they

will keep an “open mind” regarding the creation of the TWG to address the industry’s concerns.

“My impression is that these are career people who will likewise have an open mind,” Inciong told the BusinessMirror.

The broiler industry is reeling from dampened demand for chicken meat due to the stoppage of operations of the hotel, restaurant and institutional (HRI) segment, which accounts for about 30 percent of total demand, due to movement restrictions imposed by the government to control the spread of Covid-19.

The loss of the HRI segment has resulted in glut in supply and plunge in farm-gate prices last year, thus forcing some broiler raisers and even breeders to cut or stop production.

Today, the industry is experiencing record-high prices of day-old chicks that have reached P50 per piece due to lack of breeder supply.

The average farm-gate price of broilers fell by 10 percent to P110 per kilogram as supply outpaced demand, which weakened due to the imposition of the price ceiling on chicken meat.

Ubra data as of February 26 showed that the average farmgate price of broilers ranged from P109.75 per kg to P110.28 per kg, depending on size.

Ubra data indicated that the average farm-gate price of regular-sized broilers declined by 9.43 percent to P110.50 per kg from the previous week’s P122 per kg.

Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas

PHL officials reminded to prioritize HCWs in vaccination drive…or else

Final stages

IN a related development, Nograles said the government’s new concession agreement with Maynilad Water Services Inc. and Manila Water Co. Inc. are now almost complete.

“The proposed concession agreements are already within their final stages.... After that, the group, which was tasked by President Duterte to negotiate or renegotiate [with the water concessionaires] and finalize the new water concession agreements may know what to do,” Nograles said.

To recall, Duterte warned he will nationalize water distribution in Metro Manila if Maynilad and Manila Water refuse government’s new service contracts that will be offered to them.

Duterte ordered the review of the service contracts of the two water concessionaires, contracts, which, he said, allegedly contain “onerous provisions.”

Meralco linemen prune the trees that protrude near power transmission lines and high voltage transformers at Ruby Street corner Fairlane in North Fairview, Quezon City, on Thursday, March 4, 2021. The removal of obstructions near power lines and transformers is meant to avoid any untoward incident that may cause power outage. PNA/OLIVER MARQUEZ

If we want to ensure that we continue to access the vaccines from Covax facility, we need to demonstrate that we can follow this prioritization.

WHO Representative to the Philippines Dr. Rabindra Abeyasinghe

By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco Correspondent

T

HE World Health Organization (WHO) on Thursday reminded the Philippine government to “respect” the prioritization list by prioritizing the country’s health-care workers (HCWs) in the vaccination rollout after some government officials were inoculated a bid to boost vaccine confidence.

“If we want to ensure that we continue to access the vaccines from Covax facility, we need to demonstrate that we can follow this prioritization,” WHO Representative to the Philippines Dr. Rabindra Abeyasinghe said in a media forum, where he also emphasized the need to protect the “most vulnerable, most at risk.”

Given the large need for vaccines across the world, he warned that if there are multiple reports of breaches in prioritization, “then the Covax may have to decide to address this challenge.”

“My word of caution is let’s not go there...[let us] ensure that there is a continuing rollout of vaccines ready to have the Philippines protect more people as gradually as possible,” Abeyasinghe said.

He added: “Because as you know, there is a huge demand for vaccines all over, in all the affected countries...and if we cannot demonstrate that—we are not following

BM

this prioritization. Unfortunately the Covax may have to consider other options where the impact of the vaccine rollout will be more useful and practical, and contribute to saving more lives.”

The WHO official said he is urging everyone concerned to “kindly respect the prioritization that has been defined by the Department of Health [DOH] and the National Immunization Technical Advisory Group, in consultation with the WHO, to please follow that so that we can ensure continued rollout of Covax vaccines in the country.”

This, Abeyasinghe added, will help to gradually go to the second, third prioritization groups.

“And eventually have everybody protected,” he said.

Sacrifice of HCWs

ABEYASINGHE said that they recognize all the sacrifices of the HCWs since the start of the pandemic.

“We leave room for the vaccines to reach the most at risk health-care workers,” he said stressing that they deserve to be protected.

“Let us prioritize them. It is something we have to come together. Not just the DOH but the whole of the country, the whole of the community. We need to do that to acknowledge the sacrifice of these people...to provide them the protection that they deserve,” he said.

The World

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

Friday, March 5, 2021

A5

UN: 38 died on deadliest day for Myanmar coup opposition

Y

ANGON, Myanmar—Myanmar security forces were seen firing slingshots at protesters, chasing them down and even brutally beating an ambulance crew in video showing a dramatic escalation of violence against opponents of last month’s military coup.

A UN official speaking from Switzerland said 38 people had been killed on Wednesday, a figure consistent with other reports though accounts are difficult to confirm inside the country.

The increasingly deadly violence could galvanize the international community, which has responded fitfully so far.

“Today it was the bloodiest day since the coup happened on February 1. We have today—only today—38 people died. We have now more than over 50 people died since the coup started” and more have been wounded, the UN special envoy for Myanmar, Christine Schraner Burgener, told reporters at UN headquarters on Wednesday.

Demonstrators have regularly flooded the streets of cities across the country since the military seized power and ousted the elected government of leader Aung San Suu Kyi. Their numbers have remained high even as security forces have repeatedly fired tear gas, rubber bullets and live rounds to disperse the crowds, and arrested protesters en masse.

The intensifying standoff is unfortunately familiar in a countr y with a long histor y of peaceful resistance to militar y rule—and brutal crackdowns. The coup reversed years of slow progress toward democracy in the Southeast Asian nation after five decades of militar y rule.

The Democratic Voice of Burma, an independent television and online news service, also tallied 38 deaths. A toll of at least 34 was compiled by a data analyst in Yangon, Myanmar’s biggest city, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he feared for his safety. He also collected

information where he could on the victims’ names, ages, hometowns, and where and how they were killed—an effort he said he had made to honor those who were killed for their heroic resistance.

The Associated Press was unable to independently confirm most of the reported deaths, but several square with online postings.

According to the data analyst’s list, most were in Yangon, where 18 died. In the central city of Monywa, which has turned out huge crowds, eight deaths were reported. Three deaths were reported in Mandalay, the country’s second-biggest city, and two in Salin, a town in Magwe region. Mawlamyine, in the country’s southeast, and Myingyan and Kalay, both in central Myanmar, each had a single death.

As part of the crackdown, security forces have also arrested hundreds of people, including journalists. On Saturday, at least eight journalists, including Thein Zaw of The Associated Press, were detained. A video showed he had moved out of the way as police charged down a street at protesters, but then was seized by police officers, who handcuffed him and held him briefly in a chokehold before marching him away.

He has been charged with violating a public safety law that could see him imprisoned for up to three years.

The escalation of the crackdown has led to increased diplomatic efforts to resolve Myanmar’s political crisis—but there appear to be few viable options.

It’s not yet clear if Wednesday’s soaring death toll could change the dynamic.

The UN Security Council is expected

Myanmar military-named deputy UN ambassador resigns–reports

U

NITED NATIONS—Myanmar’s deputy UN ambassador, who was assigned by the military to head the country’s mission to the United Nations after the ambassador strongly opposed their recent coup, resigned on Wednesday, according to social media and newspaper reports.

Tin Maung Naing was named by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as the mission’s charge d’affaires in a letter to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres received Tuesday. It said Ambassador Kyaw Moe Tun had been terminated.

Tun sent letters Monday to the General Assembly president and Guterres saying he represents the country’s “legitimate” government and remains Myanmar’s ambassador.

Deputy Ambassador Naing posted on Facebook Wednesday that he was resigning, without giving a reason, according to The Irrawaddy newspaper in a report from Yangon, Myanmar’s largest city, and a Twitter post from anti-coup activists that included his Burmese language Facebook announcement.

According to an unofficial translation of the announcement, Naing said he was a dedicated civil servant serving the country he loves for 30 years but due to unavoidable circumstances he was resigning.

The country’s UN mission did not respond to numerous calls seeking comment on the Facebook post, which was readable only by people marked as

friends. Anti-coup activists on Twitter welcomed Naing’s statement.

UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said Wednesday he had seen reports of Naing’s resignation, and said that the two contradictory letters from Ambassador Tun and the Foreign Ministry had been sent to the General Assembly’s Credentials Committee.

In a dramatic speech to a General Assembly meeting on Myanmar on Friday, Tun appealed for “the strongest possible action from the international community” to restore democracy to the country.

He urged all countries to strongly condemn the February 1 coup, to refuse to recognize the military regime, and to ask the military leaders to respect the November elections won by State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy party.

The Irrawaddy said that after Tun condemned the military, the Foreign Ministry “recalled at least 100 diplomatic staff from around 19 countries.”

The paper said the Committee Representing Pyidaungu Hluttaw (National Assembly), comprising elected lawmakers from Suu Kyi’s NLD party, told the UN to recognize Tun as representing the elected government.

The committee also said Tun “had been given additional duties to manage foreign and diplomatic affairs for the NLD government, in effect appointing him foreign minister in exile,” The Irrawaddy said. AP

to hold a closed meeting on the situation on Friday, council diplomats said, speaking on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to make the information public before the official announcement. The United Kingdom requested the meeting, they said.

Still, any kind of coordinated action at the United Nations will be difficult since two permanent members of the Security Council, China and Russia, would almost certainly veto it. Some countries have imposed or are considering imposing their own sanctions.

The UN special envoy, Schraner Burgener, who supports sanctions, said she receives some 2,000 messages per day from people inside Myanmar, many “who are really desperate to see action from the international community.”

The 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations, which includes Myanmar, issued a statement after a teleconference meeting of foreign ministers Tuesday that merely called for an end to violence and for talks on how to reach a peaceful settlement. Asean has a tradition of non-interference in each other’s internal affairs.

Ignoring that appeal, Myanmar’s security forces have continued to attack peaceful protesters.

In addition to the deaths, there have been reports of other violence. In Yangon, a widely circulated video taken from a security camera showed police in the city brutally beating members of an ambulance crew—apparently after they were arrested. Police can be seen kicking the three crew members and thrashing them with rifle butts.

Security forces are believed to single out medical workers for arrest and mistreatment because members of the medical profession launched the country’s civil disobedience movement to resist the junta.

In Mandalay, riot police, backed by soldiers, broke up a rally and chased around 1,000 teachers and students from a street with tear gas as gunshots could be heard.

Video from the AP showed a squad of police firing slingshots in the apparent direction of demonstrators as they dispersed. AP

South Korea economy shrank in 2020 for 1st time in 22 years

S

EOUL, South Korea—South Korea’s central bank says the country’s economy shrank for the first time in 22 years in 2020 as the coronavirus pandemic destroyed service industry jobs and depressed consumer spending.

Preliminary data released by the Bank of Korea on Thursday showed the country’s gross domestic product last year contracted 1 percent from 2019. It was the first annual contraction since 1998, when South Korea was in the midst of a crippling financial crisis.

The economy would have been even worse if not for the country’s technology exports, which saw increased demand driven by personal computers and servers as the pandemic forced millions around the world to work at home.

The bank expects South Korea’s economy to manage a modest recovery this year driven by exports. But it says it would take a longer time for the job market to recover from the damage to services industries, such as restaurants and transportation.

The bank since March last year has maintained its policy rate at an all-time low of 0.5 percent to help pump money into the economy. But experts say traditional financial tools aimed at lowering borrowing costs have had only limited effect during the pandemic that has damaged both supply and demand.

The country reported another new 424 cases of the coronavirus on Thursday, bringing its national caseload to 91,240, including 1,619 deaths. AP

BusinessMirror

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41.

ZHOU, JIE Chinese

MANDARIN CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE

42.

ZUO, JUNWEI Chinese

MANDARIN CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE

BIGCAT SOFTWARE SOLUTIONS, INC. 18/f Pbcom Tower, 6795 Ayala Avenue Cor. Rufino Street Salcedo Vill. Bel-air Makati City 78.

SINGHAL, NANDITA Indian

INDIAN LANGUAGE- QA ANALYST

BOWENHILLS TECH INC. 19/f Lepanto Bldg. 8747 Paseo De Roxas Bel-air Makati City 79.

HE, SHENGJIN Chinese

CHINESE- SPEAKING CUSTOMER SERVICE OFFICER

CAPSLOCK INC. 7th & 8th Flr. Y Tower Bldg. Coral Way Drive Cor. Macapagal Brgy.

076 Pasay City

CGI IT UK LIMITED INC. 2/f One World Square Bldg. Mckinley Hill Pinagsama Taguig City 88.

BELAZA, ANDREIOS NELSON REYES, Norwegian

MULTILINGUAL SERVICE DESK MEMBER

CHINA HARBOUR ENGINEERING COMPANY 5/f Rm 501 Ramon Magsaysay Center 1680 Roxas Blvd. 076, Bgy. 699 Malate Manila 94.

LI, LIN Chinese

MANDARIN BUSINESS MANAGER

CLOVERSENSE TECHNOLOGY INC. 29/f Robinsons Summit Center 6783 Ayala Center Bel-air Makati City

COFFRAL FORMWORKS AND SCAFFOLDS, INC. #530 Unit 2701 Summit One Office Tower Shaw Blvd. Brgy. Highway Mandaluyong City 97.

BOONE, GAELLE CHRISTINE French

INTERNATIONAL SALES

EASTERN GOLD CORPORATION 503 Nueva St Binondo Manila 100.

ZHOU, CHAOFAN Grenadian

MARKETING AND SALES AGENT

ECHOTECH SERVICES INC. 18/f Philamlife Tower 8767 Paseo De Roxas Bel-air Makati City 101.

ZHU, YUANQIN Chinese

MANDARIN FIELD MARKETING OFFICER

102.

JIANG, MEI Chinese

MANDARIN SITE TECHNICAL OFFICER

FAREAST OUTSOURCE PROCESSING INC. 7th, 8th, 9th Flr. Nu Tower Moa Coral Way Brgy. 076 Pasay City 103.

LIU, YONGHONG Chinese

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE (CSR)

104.

YU, YINGSHU Chinese

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE (CSR)

FASTCARGO LOGISTICS CORPORATION Fmw Bldg. Tierra Nueva Village Alabang Zap Rd. Muntinlupa City 105.

EDWIN LIM WEI YIAP Malaysian

CONSULTANT

GATEWAYSOLUTIONS CORP. 8/f Edsa Cor. Sultan Brgy. Highway Hills Mandaluyong City 106.

CHEN, BAOSHAN Chinese

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE

107.

SUN, CANXIONG Chinese

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE

GENX SPORTS & MEDIA PRODUCTION CORP. 11/f Aseana I Bldg. Bradco Ave. Aseana City Tambo Parañaque City

FOREIGN NATIONAL / NATIONALITY

POSITION

GMO GLOBALSIGN INC. Units 7&8, 23/f Zuellig Bldg. Makati Ave. Cor. Paseo De Roxas Urdaneta Makati City 140.

ROUAM, AXEL WILLIAM M. Belgian

MULTILINGUAL TECHNICAL SUPPORT SPECIALIST (FRENCH)

GORGEOUS LEGEND BUSINESS SOLUTIONS INC. 20/f Robinsons Jg Summit Center 6783 Ayala Ave. San Lorenzo Makati City 141.

CHOW WAI LOON Malaysian

OPERATION OFFICER

GUANGXI HYDRO ELECTRIC CONSTRUCTION BUREAU (GHCB PHILIPPINES CORPORATION) #58 Road 1 Project 6 1 Quezon City 142.

YU, HAI Chinese

GENERAL MANAGER

143.

GAO, DEJUN Chinese

SENIOR PROJECT MANAGER

144.

ZHANG, JIN Chinese

SR. HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER

HAMMERTIME CONSTRUCTION INC. Unit 203-s3 2nd Flr. Fbr Arcade Bldg. #317 Katipunan Ave. Loyola Heights 3 Quezon City 145.

ZHONG, ZHANBING Chinese

CHINESE FINANCIAL CONTROLLER

146.

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE MANDARIN SPEAKING

ZHAO, SHUWEI Chinese

CHINESE FINANCIAL MANAGER

147.

FANG, DEZHENG Chinese

QUALITY ASSURANCE(QA)/ QUALITY CONTROL(QC) ADVISER

LYU, HAICHENG Chinese

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE MANDARIN SPEAKING

INTEGRITY GLOBAL GROUP, INC. 2/f-3/f Ayala Malls Circuit A.p. Reyes Ave. Carmona Makati City

111.

MA, RUN Chinese

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE MANDARIN SPEAKING

112.

YANG, CHEN Chinese

113.

ZHUANG, KAIQI Chinese

108.

LAI, GUOBIN Chinese

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE MANDARIN SPEAKING

109.

LIU, WENCHAO Chinese

110.

148.

HU, ZINING Chinese

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE

149.

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE MANDARIN SPEAKING

CHEN, LINGZHI Chinese

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE (MANDARIN SPEAKING)

150.

HE, TING Chinese

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE MANDARIN SPEAKING

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE (MANDARIN SPEAKING)

151.

MA, ZEBIN Chinese

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

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE (MANDARIN SPEAKING)

152.

MAO, YUCHENG Chinese

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE (MANDARIN SPEAKING)

WANG, JIKUN Chinese

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE (MANDARIN SPEAKING)

114.

CAI, JIANYING Chinese

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE MANDARIN SPEAKING

153.

115.

DING, LI Chinese

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE MANDARIN SPEAKING

ITECHNO SPECIALIST INC. 7/f Aseana I Bldg. Bradco Avenue Aseana Business Park Tambo Parañaque City

116.

HE, HUIXIN Chinese

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE MANDARIN SPEAKING

154.

GONG, CHUANG Chinese

CHINESE IT SUPPORT SPECIALIST

155.

CHINESE IT SUPPORT SPECIALIST

HUANG, ZHIYONG Chinese

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE MANDARIN SPEAKING

LI, JI Chinese

156.

LIU, YANG Chinese

CHINESE IT SUPPORT SPECIALIST

157.

HUANG, SHUAI Chinese

PENG, JUNLONG Chinese

CHINESE IT SUPPORT SPECIALIST

118.

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE MANDARIN SPEAKING

158.

YANG, JINWEN Chinese

CHINESE IT SUPPORT SPECIALIST

119.

HUANG, YAHUI Chinese

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE MANDARIN SPEAKING

117.

120.

JIANG, CHUAN Chinese

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE MANDARIN SPEAKING

121.

LAN, YONGLUN Chinese

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE MANDARIN SPEAKING

JDB MANAGEMENT AND CONSULTANCY CORP. 107 T & D House Magallanes St. 069, Bgy. 655 Intramuros Manila 159.

LI, WEI Chinese

STRATEGY AND FACILITATION CONSULTANT

JJA ROYALTY TRADING AND SERVICES INCORPORATED L-40 B2 St. Veraville Townhomes Regency Manuyo Dos Las Piñas City 160.

SU, YANJIE Chinese

FINANCE OFFICER

BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS NO.

FOREIGN NATIONAL / NATIONALITY

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS POSITION

JP & L BEAUTY PRODUCTS INC. 22 The Trade And Financial Tower 7th Ave. Cor. 32nd St. Fort Bonifacio Taguig City 161.

MALKA, EDEN Israeli

MULTILINGUAL - PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST

LAN TIAN ZI XUN INC. Rm. 2510 25/f Zen Tower 1111 N.lopez St., 071 Bgy. 659 Ermita Manila 162.

HU, ZHONGJIAN Chinese

CHINESE TECHNOLOGY CONSULTANT

163.

WANG, GANG Chinese

CHINESE TECHNOLOGY CONSULTANT

MARKETROLE ASIA PACIFIC SERVICES, INC. 26/f, 27/f, 28/f The Enterprise Center Tower 1 6766 Ayala Ave. Cor. Paseo De Roxas San Lorenzo Makati City 164.

CHEN, DAYANG Chinese

CHINESE SPEAKING CUSTOMER SERVICE STAFF

165.

CHEN, JIAJIA Chinese

CHINESE SPEAKING CUSTOMER SERVICE STAFF

166.

CHENG, YUAN Chinese

CHINESE SPEAKING CUSTOMER SERVICE STAFF

167.

DU, XINGXING Chinese

CHINESE SPEAKING CUSTOMER SERVICE STAFF

168.

DUAN, XIANGYU Chinese

CHINESE SPEAKING CUSTOMER SERVICE STAFF

169.

FAN, WENJIN Chinese

CHINESE SPEAKING CUSTOMER SERVICE STAFF

170.

HU, YULONG Chinese

CHINESE SPEAKING CUSTOMER SERVICE STAFF

171.

LI, HONG Chinese

CHINESE SPEAKING CUSTOMER SERVICE STAFF

172.

LU, ZEYONG Chinese

CHINESE SPEAKING CUSTOMER SERVICE STAFF

173.

QIN, DONG Chinese

CHINESE SPEAKING CUSTOMER SERVICE STAFF

174.

SUN, YAZHOU Chinese

CHINESE SPEAKING CUSTOMER SERVICE STAFF

175.

TANG, ZIHAO Chinese

CHINESE SPEAKING CUSTOMER SERVICE STAFF

176.

WANG, PAN Chinese

CHINESE SPEAKING CUSTOMER SERVICE STAFF

177.

WANG, HAILIN Chinese

CHINESE SPEAKING CUSTOMER SERVICE STAFF

178.

ZHANG, HAILONG Chinese

CHINESE SPEAKING CUSTOMER SERVICE STAFF

179.

ZHAO, SUOZHU Chinese

CHINESE SPEAKING CUSTOMER SERVICE STAFF

180.

ZHENG, HAOYUAN Chinese

CHINESE SPEAKING CUSTOMER SERVICE STAFF

MEGA-WEB TECHNOLOGIES INC. 6,7,8,9,10,11/f Met Live Bldg. Edsa Cor. Macapagal Blvd. Brgy. 076 Pasay City

NO.

FOREIGN NATIONAL / NATIONALITY

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS POSITION

212.

WANG, WENJIA Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

213.

WANG, QIONGYI Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

WANG, LONG Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

WANG, XUANBO Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

WANG, PINGPING Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

214.

215.

216.

WANG, HUITING Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

218.

WEI, MINGMING Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

219.

WU, WEI Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

WU, SHUANGLING Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

221.

WU, JINTAO Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

222.

XIONG, EN Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

223.

XU, JINLONG Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

224.

XU, YAO Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

YANG, ZEXIONG Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

226.

YANG, CHUANBO Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

227.

YE, QIULING Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

228.

YI, ZHIQIANG Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

229.

YOU, WENCONG Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

230.

YU, ZHI Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

ZENG, HONGBIAO Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

217.

220.

225.

CHEN, YAO Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

HUANG, WUJIANG Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

231.

183.

LI, XIONGYI Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

232.

ZHAN, YOUMING Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

184.

LI, FANGLING Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

233.

ZHANG, MIAOXIN Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

185.

ZHANG, HUIRONG Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

234.

ZHANG, RUI Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

186.

CAI, CUIQIONG Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

235.

ZHANG, SHIJING Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

187.

CHAM HUI YENG Malaysian

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

236.

ZHANG, XIONG Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

188.

CHEN, PANTING Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

237.

ZHANG, BO Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

189.

CHEN, XIAOLONG Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

238.

ZHOU, XIANBIN Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

190.

CHEN, CHAO Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

239.

ZHOU, YU Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

DAI, TING Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

GENG, CHENCHEN Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

GUO, YUNLONG Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

JI, FENGXIANG Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

181.

182.

191.

192.

193.

194.

195.

LI, XIAOPENG Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

196.

LI, YU Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

197.

LI, FAYE Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

198.

199.

200.

LI, HAOPENG Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

LI, JINCHUAN Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

LI, YUYUAN Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

201.

LI, JIAXI Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

202.

LI, XIANPENG Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

203.

LIU, LEI Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

204.

LIU, YANG Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

LU, KAI Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

205.

206.

LU, PENG Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

207.

LU, KUNMING Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

208.

MA, LIANG Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

209.

QIAN, SIJIAO Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

SONG, YONG Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

SUN, ZHIYUAN Chinese

MANDARIN SPEAKING CUSTOMER RELATIONS SERVICE PROVIDER

210.

211.

Friday, March 5, 2021

MIND AND BODY TRAVEL AND TOURS INC. 7/f Finman Centre 131 Tordesillas St. Bel-air Makati City 240.

YANG, JUN Chinese

CORPORATE TRAVEL CONSULTANT

241.

XUE, WENBO Chinese

MANDARIN CUSTOMER SERVICE AGENT

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

NO.

FOREIGN NATIONAL / NATIONALITY

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS POSITION

267.

CHEN, BINGXIAN Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

268.

CHEN, HAIYU Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

269.

CHEN, ZIYU Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

270.

CUI, BAOBAO Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

RAINBOW PROMISE SOLUTIONS INC. Unit A 14/f B.a Lepanto Bldg. 8749 Paseo De Roxas Bel-air Makati City

271.

FAN, YEXIANG Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

326.

272.

GONG, LIJIE Chinese

SAMROD, JARIYA Thai

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

CUSTOMER SERVICE SPECIALIST (THAI SPEAKING)

273.

HANG, DONGDONG Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

327.

AGUS CHANDRA Indonesian

CUSTOMER SERVICE SUPERVISOR (MULTILINGUAL)

274.

HUANG, JIE Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

328.

RISK AND COMPLIANCE OFFICER (MULTILINGUAL)

275.

HUANG, ZUXIAN Chinese

HONGBINMA, ATCHARAWAN Thai

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

276.

HUANG, YING Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

RIOFIL CORPORATION U-1704-1706, 1708, 1709, Hanston Square San Miguel Avenue, Ortigas Center San Antonio Pasig City

277.

JIANG, CIHANG Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

278.

LEE, RYAN Dominican

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

SKY DRAGON GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES CORP. 2f-5f Unit 710 Shaw Blvd. Global Link Center, Brgy. Wack Wack Mandaluyong City

279.

LEI, QIANG Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

330.

JIN, XUE Chinese

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE

280.

LEI, XIAOLIN Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

331.

XU, SHIYAN Chinese

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE

281.

LEI, ZHIQIANG Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

332.

ZHOU, ZHENGPENG Chinese

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE

282.

LI, SHUANG Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

283.

LI, MIN Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

TELUS INTERNATIONAL PHILIPPINES, INC. Units 23/f, 31st/f - 37th/f Discovery Centre Adb Avenue, Ortigas Center San Antonio Pasig City

284.

LIU, CHUPEI Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

285.

LIU, HONGFENG Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

286.

LIU, WENJUN Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

287.

LIU, QIANG Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

288.

LIU, LU Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

289.

MA, JIANCUN Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

290.

MO, YING Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

291.

PAN, RENJIE Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

292.

REN, JIAN Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

293.

SHAO, YALEI Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

294.

SUN, ZHAOHUI Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

295.

TANG, YUNLONG Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

296.

TANG, JIA Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

297.

WANG, QIONG Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

298.

WU, SONG Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

299.

XU, ZHIDA Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

300.

YANG, SHENGYU Chinese

VAN GOGH BUSINESS PROCESS OUTSOURCING INC. 5/f Ayala Circuit Bpo-1 Bldg. Theater Drive Circuit Makati Carmona Makati City

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

344.

COMPUTER SYSTEM ANALYST

301.

YU, JUNHONG Chinese

SIU HOI PHAN Vietnamese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

345.

COMPUTER SYSTEM ANALYST

302.

ZHANG, ZHIXUE Chinese

SIU NGOC QUYEN Vietnamese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

346.

COMPUTER SYSTEM ANALYST

303.

ZHANG, SHAOJUN Chinese

THAM KIN BIAO Malaysian

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

347.

COMPUTER SYSTEM ANALYST

304.

ZHAO, JINZHOU Chinese

TRAN THI THUY TRANG Vietnamese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

348.

COMPUTER SYSTEM ANALYST

305.

ZHENG, HONG Chinese

VONG A THANH Vietnamese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

349.

IT TECHNICAL MANDARIN

306.

ZHOU, WEI Chinese

CHEN, JUNLONG Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

350.

FENG, YUQIN Chinese

IT TECHNICAL MANDARIN

351.

WANG, LONGXIANG Chinese

IT TECHNICAL MANDARIN

OKKDA ASIA TECHNOLOGY INC. Unit 5b 5/f Marvin Plaza 2153 C. Roces Ave. Pio Del Pilar Makati City 307.

FANG, JIAN Chinese

MULTILINGUAL BUSINESS PROCESS DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANT

308.

LI, HONGXIANG Chinese

MULTILINGUAL BUSINESS PROCESS DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANT

309.

WANG, MEIYU Chinese

MULTILINGUAL BUSINESS PROCESS DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANT

WU, HAIJING Chinese

MULTILINGUAL BUSINESS PROCESS DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANT

243.

CHENG, LONGGUI Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

244.

FANG, CHAOJIAN Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

245.

HUANG, YUMING Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

310.

246.

LEE KAH ANN Malaysian

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

247.

LI, CHAOWEI Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

OUTWIT, INC. 2/f Marvin Plaza 2153 Chino Roces Ave. Pio Del Pilar Makati City

248.

LI, HONGYA Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

249.

LIM CHE KHAI Malaysian

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

250.

LIN, TIANXING Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

251.

LIN, LIANGYU Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

252.

LIU, WEIQING Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

253.

LIU, GAO Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

254.

QIAO, YUHAN Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

255.

SUI, BAOGONG Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

256.

WANG, HUAN Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

257.

WEI, JINGYI Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

318.

258.

WU, XIAOFAN Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

259.

XIA, ZHANGLAI Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

PRIME GREAT COMPUTER TECHNOLOGIES INC. 3/f To 8/f, Nissan Sucat Zentrum Building 8390 Dr. A Santos Avenue Bf Homes Parañaque City

260.

ZHAN, JIANJUN Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVCE

262.

BAI, GUANG Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

263.

BAI, MALI Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

264.

BIAN, QILIN Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

265.

CAI, XINGHUI Chinese

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

311.

SANDYA LORENSA Indonesian

INDONESIAN OPERATIONS SPECIALIST

312.

TEOH XIN YEE Malaysian

MALAYSIAN OPERATIONS SPECIALIST

313.

LAI, YI-SIAN Taiwanese

MANDARIN ADMIN SUPERVISOR

314.

ZHANG, FENGWANG Chinese

MANDARIN IT TESTER

315.

LI, PEI-ROU a.k.a. LEE, PEI-JOU Taiwanese

MANDARIN TECHNICAL SUPPORT MANAGER

316.

LI, PING-CHE Taiwanese

MANDARIN TECHNICAL SUPPORT SPECIALIST

PHILIPPINE SINTER CORPORATION 23/f Oledan Square 6788 Ayala Avenue San Lorenzo Makati City 317.

WON, DAEHEE South Korean

EXECUTIVE ADVISER

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

TECHNICAL SITE SUPERVISOR

319.

LI, BANGDONG Chinese

IT TECHNICAL MANDARIN

320.

YU, TAO Chinese

IT TECHNICAL MANDARIN

PRIMUS@KNOWLEDGE SPECIALISTS, INCORPORATED 11/f, Unit 1117 Cityland Shaw Tower Shaw Blvd. Cor. St. Francis Brgy. Wack Wack Mandaluyong City

324.

BUCHE, SANKET SHRIDHAR Indian

POSITION

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE

WANG, SITIAN Chinese

FOREIGN NATIONAL / NATIONALITY

CHEN, BIN Chinese

CHENG, XUEQIANG Chinese

261.

NO.

266.

242.

NEW ORIENTAL CLUB88 CORPORATION 3rd, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th & 10th/f Pearl Marina Building Pacific Drive Don Galo Parañaque City

A7

SUPPLY CHAIN DIRECTOR, PHILIPPINES

QINGDAO MUNICIPAL CONSTRUCTION GROUP CO., LTD. Lot 2 Pasolo Road Pasolo Valenzuela City 325.

329.

333.

CHAI, PENG Chinese

MIYAKAWA, HIROSHI Japanese

KAMANZI, FILS OLIVIER Rwandan

STRUCTURAL WELDING TECHNICIAN

DIRECTOR

FRENCH OPERATIONS CSR

THIRTY ONE DIGITAL MEDIA SOLUTIONS INC. 8-m Cyberzone Plaza Bldg. Eastwood Avenue Bagumbayan 3 Quezon City 334.

ZHOU, LI Chinese

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANT

TIANYU TECHNOLOGY INC. 23/f Pbcom Tower Ayala Avenue Cor. V.a Rufino Street Bel-air Makati City 335.

SONG, QI Chinese

CHINESE IT SUPPORT SPECIALIST

336.

WANG, QIANCHUAN Chinese

CHINESE IT SUPPORT SPECIALIST

337.

ZHANG, ZIBO Chinese

CHINESE IT SUPPORT SPECIALIST

TRIVES TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION Tower 4 Bayport West Naia Garden Residence, Naia Road Tambo Parañaque City 338.

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CHINESE CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE

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LI, GUOFENG Chinese

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WISHLAND SOFTWARE TECHNOLOGY INC. 28/f Techzone Condo Corp. 213 Buendia Ave. San Antonio Makati City 353.

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354.

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WN WEATHERSTREET PHILIPPINE BRANCH 21/f Oledan Square 6788 Ayala Ave. San Lorenzo Makati City 355.

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XINCHUANG NETWORK TECHNOLOGY, INC. 3rd, 5th-10th Flr. Alabang Zapote Rd. Almanza Uno Las Piñas City 356.

HUANG, FANGZHENG Chinese

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357.

LI, CHUANGANG Chinese

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359.

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LIU, CONGCONG Chinese

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LIU, GE Chinese

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363.

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TheWorld BusinessMirror

Friday, March 5, 2021

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Canada vaccine panel recommends 4 months between Covid-19 doses

T

ORONTO—A national panel of vaccine experts in Canada recommended on Wednesday that provinces extend the interval between the two doses of a Covid-19 shot to four months to quickly inoculate more people amid a shortage of doses in Canada.

A number of provinces said

they would do just that.

P r i m e M i n i s t e r Ju s t i n Trudeau also expressed optimism that vaccination timelines could be sped up. And Health Canada, the country’s regulator, said emerging evidence suggests high effectiveness for several weeks after the first dose and noted the panel’s

recommendation in a tweet. But two top health officials called it an experiment.

The current protocol is an interval of three to four weeks between doses for the Pfizer, Moderna and AstraZeneca vaccines. Johnson & Johnson is a one-dose vaccine but has not been approved in Canada yet.

T h e N at i o n a l A d v i s o r y Committee on Immunization said extending the dose interval to four months would allow as many as 80 percent of Canadians over the age of 16 to receive a single dose by the end of June simply with the expected supply of Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines.

Second doses would begin to be administered in July as more shipments arrive, the panel said, noting that 55 million doses are expected to be delivered in July, August and September.

In comparison, the federal government previously said 38 percent of people would receive two doses by the end of June.

“They are making, I think, a reasonable calculation in a time of drug shortage,” said Dr. Andrew Morris, a professor of infectious diseases at the University of Toronto and the medical director of the Antimicrobial Stewardship Program at Sinai-University Health Network. “It’s the right decision in my mind. Let me ask... A couple is given two vaccines. Do you give two to one, or give one each one dose? It’s a no brainer.”

The addition of the newly approved AstraZeneca vaccine to the country’s supply could mean almost all Canadians would get their first shot in that time frame.

“The vaccine effectiveness of the first dose will be monitored closely and the decision to delay the second dose will be continuously assessed based on surveillance and effectiveness data and post-implementation study designs,” the panel wrote.

“Effectiveness against variants of concern will also be monitored closely, and recommendations may need to be revised,” it said, adding there is currently no evidence that a longer interval will affect the emergence of the variants.

The updated guidance applies to all three of the vaccines currently approved for use in Canada.

The committee’s recommendation came hours after the Atlantic coast province of Newfoundland and Labrador said it will extend the interval between the first and second doses to four months, and days after health officials in the Pacific coast province of British Columbia announced they were doing so.

Manitoba and Quebec also said Wednesday they will delay second doses. And Ontario’s health minister

said it would do in Ontario to rapidly accelerate its vaccine rollout.

Earlier Wednesday, Trudeau said any change in public health guidance regarding the timing of the two doses could affect the speed of Canada’s vaccine rollout, as could the approval of more vaccines like Johnson and Johnson.

Canad a’s prov inces administer health care in the country so it’s ultimately up to the provinces.

Dr. Brad Wouters, executive vicepresident of science and research at University Health Network, cast doubt on the recommendation. “Nobody in the world has been 4 months between doses.

These are RNA vaccines never used before. We should use evidence to make decisions. Canada conducting a population experiment,” Wouters tweeted.

And Mona Nemer, the federal government’s Chief Science Advisor, also said this week that the plan amounts to a “population-level experiment” and that the data provided so far

by Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech is based on an interval of three to four weeks between doses.

But Dr. Bonnie Henry, British Columbia’s provincial health officer, said the manufacturers structured their clinical trials that way to get the vaccines to market as quickly as possible, but said research in British Columbia, Quebec, Israel and the United Kingdom has shown that first doses are highly effective.

Dr. Supriya Sharma, chief medical adviser for Health Canada, the country’s regulator, told the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation in a time of limited supply they are starting to have greater comfort with the idea of waiting for the second dose after seeing real world data versus the strict interpretation of the clinical trials.

“In the real world we’re starting to see evidence from other countries that have delayed that second dose ‘Oh, it looks like they still have a really good effectiveness.’ We have lab studies that show it’s unlikely that immune response will drop off,” Sharma said. AP

Fed survey finds modest gains in the US economy in February

W

ASHINGTON—A Federal Reser ve sur vey of business conditions across the United States has found that economic activity was expanding at a modest pace in February.

The Fed survey released Wednesday shows that the central bank’s business contacts were expressing optimism last month about a stronger rebound as more Covid-19 vaccines are distributed.

Reports on consumer spending and auto sales were mixed, while overall manufacturing showed moderate gains despite supply-side constraints, according to the Fed survey.

The report, known as the beige book, is based on surveys conducted by the Fed’s 12 regional banks. It will form the basis for discussions when central bank officials meet on March 16-17 to mull their future moves on monetary policy.

The expectation is that the Fed will keep its benchmark short-term rate at a record low of zero to 0.25 percent.

The central bank is also expected to again signal that rates will not rise for the foreseeable future and the current pace of $120 billion per month in bond purchases will also continue.

Most of the Fed’s 12 regions reported the economy was growing in February at a modest pace although the Dallas region said activity had been disrupted by a severe winter storm that knocked out electricity to millions of residents for a time.

“Unprecedented winter storms and widespread power outages in midFebruary severely disrupted economic activity, although the impact is mostly expected to be transitory,” the Fed’s Dallas regional bank reported.

T he Ne w Yor k Fe d w a s one of

t he fe w re g ion s t h at re p or t e d a d e c l i n e i n a c t i v it y l a s t m o nt h , poi nt i ng to “pa r t ic u l a r we a k ness” i n t he s e r v ic e s e c t or.

The beige book survey found that demand for labor varied considerably by industry and skill levels. Many businesses noted continued difficulties in attracting and retaining qualified workers, with lack of childcare and a variety of other constraints still being imposed by the pandemic.

“Wage increases for many districts are expected to persist or to pick up somewhat over the next several months,” the report said.

Overall manufacturing activ it y in most d istr icts showed modest increases despite challenges from supply-chain disruptions.

Input costs rose modest ly last mont h but w it h higher pr ice increases seen for steel and lumber, the report said.

“In many distr icts, the r ise in costs was widely attributed to supply chain disruptions and to strong overall demand,” the beige book said, not ing t hat tra nspor tat ion costs had been rising due to increases in energ y costs.

Gus Faucher, chief economist at PNC Financial Services Group, said that the beige book findings were in line with his own economic forecast that expects moderate GDP growth in the current quarter but an acceleration for the rest of the year.

“Businesses are expecting demand to pick up in the spring and beyond as vaccine distribution continues, b e t t e r w e at he r a l lo w s for more outdoor act iv it y a nd st imu lus effor ts suppor t consumer spend ing ,” Fauc her sa id. AP

BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Friday, March 5, 2021 A9

Republic of the Philippines

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

32

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. PHONG CHI VINH / Vietnamese

Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

33

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. PHU MINH HENH / Vietnamese

Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

34

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. CONGYU ZHONG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

35

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. JINGJING ZHANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

36

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. HENGYU ZHU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

37

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. XI ZHENG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

38

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. TIHANG GUO / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

39

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. SHUWEI CHANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

40

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. LINGLING CAO / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

41

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. WANJIANG YANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

42

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. NANG LAO KHAM / Burmese

Myanmari Customer Service Representative

43

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. GUIYI LUO / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

44

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. YANHUA JIAO / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

45

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. YUZHOU TONG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

46

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. QIPEN HAN / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

March 05, 2021

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

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

Name and Address of Company/ Employer

Name and Citizenship of Foreign National

Position/s

1

AMKOR TECHNOLOGY PHILIPPINES, INC. LEPZ, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. NAKKYU SUNG / Korean

2

CRESTEC PHILIPPINES, INC. Sta. Anastacia, Santo Tomas, Batangas

Mr. MASAAKI YAJIMA / Japanese

3

KONGNGAI METAL TOOLING & Mr. LISHEN WU / STAMPING PHILIPPINES CORP. Chinese LTC, Brgy. Santiago, Malvar, Batangas

4

KONGNGAI METAL TOOLING & Mr. CHUKUN CHEN / STAMPING PHILIPPINES CORP. Chinese LTC, Brgy. Santiago, Malvar, Batangas

5

MEC ELECTRONICS PHILIPPINES CORPORATION CEZ, Rosario, Cavite

Mr. CHING-YUAN LIN / Taiwanese

6

MKP, INC. CEZ, Rosario, Cavite

Mr. HATSUICHI DAIGUCHI / Japanese

7

ROHM ELECTRONICS PHILIPPINES, INC. PTC-SEZ, Brgy. Maduya, Carmona, Cavite

Mr. SHUNICHI MATSUMURA / Japanese

8

YTM COMPONENT INC. Brgy. Makiling, Calamba City, Laguna

Mr. KOICHI OBA / Japanese

9

TAISEI ELECTRONICS (PHILIPPINES), INC. Mr. HIROYUKI NAGAI / Lima Technology Center, Lipa City, Japanese Batangas

10

ENOMOTO PHILIPPINE MANUFACTURING, INC. GBP, Brgy. Javalera, General Trias, Cavite

Mr. KAZUYA BABA / Japanese

11

EPSON PRECISION (PHILIPPINES) INC. SEPZ-LTC, Lipa City, Batangas

Mr. SHIGETOSHI KONDO / Japanese

12

SJ E&I INC. Brgy. Pinamucan Ibaba, Batangas City, Batangas

Mr. MYUNGJOON YOO / Korean

Site Manager

13

SJ E&I INC. Brgy. Pinamucan Ibaba, Batangas City, Batangas

Mr. DEOKSEONG HAN / Korean

Cost and Planning Manager

14

NIDEC PHILIPPINES CORPORATION SEZ, Laguna Technopark, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. TAKAO KAMIYAMA / Japanese

Deputy General Manager of Production Control Division

47

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. JUWEI HUANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

15

NIDEC PHILIPPINES CORPORATION SEZ, Laguna Technopark, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. SHUN KIKUCHI / Japanese

Senior Supervisor of B Company Business Group

48

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. DENAN LI / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

16

NIDEC PHILIPPINES CORPORATION SEZ, Laguna Technopark, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. KAZUYA SATO / Japanese

General Manager of Parts Division

49

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. SHUWU ZHU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

17

NIDEC PHILIPPINES CORPORATION SEZ, Laguna Technopark, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. YUJI AKIHISA / Japanese

Division Manager of Parts Division 50

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. XUEYAN WANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

18

INOVUS PHILIPPINES TECHNOLOGY, INC. Laguna Technopark, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. YONG EU LEE / Malaysian

51

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. BUI TRUC LAM / ietnamese

Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

LAGUNA AUTO-PARTS MANUFACTURING CORPORATION Laguna Technopark, Santa Rosa City, Laguna

Mr. TAKAHIRO KURASHIMA / Japanese

52

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. WEI ZHU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

20

KYOURITSU ELECTRONICS PHILIPPINES, INC. LISP II, Brgy. Lamesa, Calamba City, Laguna

Mr. TAKAYUKI SHIMURA / Japanese

53

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. TIANJIAN LAN / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

21

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. SHUNJUN HUANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

54

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. DAO THI NHINH / Vietnamese

22

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. PENGFEI LI / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

55

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. QIAN YANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

23

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. SHUHONG ZENG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

56

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. YINCHUAN YUAN / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

24

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. JIA ZENG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

57

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. YUXUAN LI / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

25

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. YAFENG SHI / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

58

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. XI CHEN / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

26

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. LINLIN CAO / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

59

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. HONGMIN CAO / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

27

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. JIWU TONG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

60

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. JIZE LIU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

28

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. JIAN WANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

29

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. HAOYI CUI / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

30

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. GONGJIAN YUAN / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

31

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. YUMING MO / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

19

Senior Director/IT CIM Sales & Japan Desk Customer Support Production Manager

Maintenance Manager

Purchasing Manager

Vice President

Group Division Manager Department Head of Engineering and Maintenance Engineering Manager

Vice President

IJP Parts Engineering Department Manager

Vice President

Adviser of Technical Division

Corporate Director

Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

Any person in the Philippines who is competent, able and willing to perform the services for which the foreign national is desired may file an objection at the DOLE Regional Office within 30 days from the date of publication.

Please inform the DOLE Regional Office if you have an information of any criminal offense committed by the foreign nationals.

EXEQUIEL RONIE A. GUZMAN Regional Director

To avail of free job referral, placement, and employment guidance services, visit the nearest Public Employment Service Offices (PESO) or log on at http://www.philjobnet.gov.ph AEP20201007483

A10 Friday, March 5, 2021 • Editor: Angel R. Calso

Opinion BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

editorial

Not science: Just guesses

P

erhaps the number one problem that both the public and government policy-makers have faced is making decisions regarding Covid-19 based on “The Science.”

Science has been perverted, particularly in the past 20 years, by two factors. The first is that models used to predict that future that failed were “adjusted” or that certain data was added or deleted to make the model “accurate.” The second is that we now look to a “consensus of experts.” Both were a direct result of the science surrounding the idea that the Earth was warming, and that recent human activity was the cause.

We will not argue the validity of the “Climate Change” scenarios except to say that when the argument is that “97 percent or more of actively publishing climate scientists agree,” that is not science.

A fully developed heliocentric model—that the Earth moves around the sun—was presented by Aristarchus of Samos in the 3rd century BC. But the scientific consensus said that idea was false, even after Nicolaus Copernicus formulated a model that placed the sun at the center of the universe in the 1500s.

In past centuries, the greatest killer of women—one in six died—was fever following childbirth. In 1795, Alexander Gordon of Aberdeen said the fevers were curable infections. The consensus said no. It took 125 years for the “consensus” to agree.

The pandemic has been a nightmare for us all. But how much more for the men and women in government and also the private sector like business owners and operators that have actually had to make decisions?

Of course, government officials must be accountable and should always be transparent. They have an obligation to explain why they acted the way they did. But it is extremely easy to criticize behind the safety of a newspaper column or a social-media post. For most of these “experts,” the biggest life-changing decision they ever made was answering the question, “Would you like one or two scoops of rice?” And absolutely none of them have ever had to make potentially life-or-death decisions affecting millions of people.

The pandemic has also been a nightmare because the situation, as well as the virus, has been changing month-to-month, and sometimes even day-to-day. For example, “Both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization now recommend cloth masks for the general public, but earlier in the pandemic, both organizations recommended just the opposite.”

Trying to get reliable information from the genuine health care/epidemic experts on the trajectory of the disease is also exceedingly difficult. One local group wrote in April 2020, “A mathematical model is just a model and is at best an approximation of reality.” But then it goes on filling pages with projections. At that time (April 2020) they said “NCR—Pandemic is close to being contained.” However, they should not be faulted any more than the government should be faulted for the actions it took based on these scientific projections.

The Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation was founded in July 2007 with hundreds of millions of dollars from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. On September 4, 2020, it wrote that the best-case scenario for the Philippines was 58,030 deaths by January 1, 2021. Worst case was 117,721 and the actual figure was 8,316.

However, the projected deaths by then under all scenarios were a range of 7,552 to 137,358. That is not science. That is a guess, probably reached by a consensus of 97 percent of the people that wrote the report.

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Better Days

T

he Covid-19 pandemic has caused much human suffering.

But it has also catalyzed notable feats of human cooperation, ingenuity, and selflessness. Or as we put it succinctly— bayanihan.

For instance, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and select manufacturers worked hand-inhand to transform the latter’s assembly lines to produce face masks and personal protective equipment (PPEs), instead of uniforms or children’s clothes for export. Distilleries for alcoholic products were similarly refashioned to produce ethyl- and isopropyl-based hand disinfectants.

The private sector mobilized its resources to feed up to 14.1 million Filipinos in the Greater Manila Area.

This includes Project Ugnayan of the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF), which tapped Caritas Manila’s vast network of clergy and parishioners to distribute grocery vouchers, worth P1,000 each, to nearly 10 million Filipinos in Metro Manila.

Late last year, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) forged an agreement with IBPAP (Information Technology and Business Processing Association of the Philippines) to help match the thousands of

returning overseas Filipino workers with job vacancies in the BPO sector.

Some 40,000 returnees have reportedly been connected to 36 BPO companies, as a result.

When our testing capabilities needed to be ramped up, multi-stakeholder initiatives were launched to set up laboratories and clinics across the country. There was the initial work of the Department of Health (DOH) toward crafting a strategy for enhancing the testing capacities of sub-national laboratories and licensing additional testing centers, and more. This effort eventually led to the formation of the publicprivate Taskforce T3 (Test, Trace, Treat), which is now preparing to help with the National Covid-19 Vaccine Roadmap.

In these instances and more, there was bayanihan in action. There were different organizations and groups working together, collaborating and cooperating. There was no clear divide between the public and private sector. All there was—was a net-

work of people moving in concerted action. All there was—was a nation seeking help from its partners to survive and weather a crisis, the biggest and most challenging it has faced in recent history.

I emphasized during my keynote at a recent webinar co-organized by the Ateneo School of Government and Ayala Corp., that this heightened level of engagement between the public and private sector needs to continue even after the pandemic—especially because of the critical tasks-at-hand of immunizing our people, preventing even more Covid-19 cases as we reopen, and building back a more resilient and inclusive economy.

For instance, not only will we need to pool as much funds as we can to procure vaccines, we will also need to secure the necessary logistical requirements. Public and private partnerships will also be needed to ensure that we have enough vaccinators to immunize our people in the shortest amount of time possible. Most importantly, multi-stakeholder efforts will also be needed to convince a majority of our people about the necessity and safety of the vaccines that have already been approved for rollout.

And then, as more of our people start venturing out of their homes, it is incumbent upon both the private and public sector to make sure that health and safety protocols are strictly followed. We need to make sure that we reopen our economy safely and reasonably. We may have already started on the path to herd

immunity, but that doesn’t mean we’re already out of the pandemic.

If we can immunize our people expediently and prevent any more Covid-19 infections, then we will survive this pandemic. But for us to emerge stronger and more resilient, we need to think ahead and plant the seeds of our future growth and prosperity today. One of those seeds, I believe, should have economic selfreliance as its fruit.

If anything, the pandemic has shown us that our consumptiondriven, import-heavy economy is not very resilient, especially when faced with a public emergency that restricts our people from roaming freely and spending their money across the country. Clearly, we need to build up our local capacities to produce more of the things we need and use—but also with an eye on exporting these once we are capable of doing so. Not one government agency or private sector initiative can address this issue by itself. We need a network of solutions to build back better our economy.

In short, closer public and private sector collaborations should be part of our next normal. And with the immense challenges we face as a society today, it should be the rule, rather than the exception.

Sen. Sonny Angara has been in public service for 16 years. He has authored and sponsored more than 200 laws. He is currently serving his second term in the Senate.

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

Ahead of Pope visit, survivor recalls Iraq church massacre

By Samya Kullab | Associated Press

Lourdes M. Fernandez

Senior Editors

Creative Director Chief Photographer

Closer public-private collaboration

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AGHDAD—It began like any other Sunday in the Our Lady of Salvation Church in Baghdad for worshipper Louis Climis.

That day nearly 11 years ago would end with blood-stained pews, anguish and lives lost.

Six al-Qaeda-linked militants stormed and seized the church, killing dozens inside. At the time, the Oct. 31, 2010 attack was the bloodiest in a drumbeat of violence that Iraq’s Christians suffered during the brutal sectarian warfare following the 2003 US invasion. More than a decade later, it still stands as perhaps the deadliest single attack against the community.

The carnage prompted many Christians to flee Iraq and deepened the mistrust between the community and its Muslim neighbors, a chasm that endures to this day.

Some are now counting on a much-anticipated visit to the church

by Pope Francis on Friday to help mend the wounds. Our Lady of Salvation, which belongs to the Syriac Catholic Church, is one of the pon-

tiff’s first stops in a historic visit to Iraq that Christians hope will secure their tenuous place in the country.

“The pope’s visit is hope for us, that he will talk with Iraqi officials to tell them to stop the violence, stop the armed groups and protect minorities,” Climis said.

On that fateful day in 2010, Climis, then 55, was a youth leader at the church. He had arrived just in time for weekly Mass with his 18-year-old son, Radi. His wife and other children stayed home to supervise kitchen repairs. For this, Climis would later be thankful.

The lofty church interiors resounded with the voice of Father Thair reading a Bible passage. He would never finish. It was right then that the first suicide bomber detonated his explosive-laden vest.

The blast threw Climis to the floor. Stunned, his eyes strained to focus on the unfolding chaos— smoke, debris and screams. Worshippers lay lifeless.

He counted four gunmen. Under the icon of the Virgin Mary, one began singing the adhan, the Islamic call to prayer.

Quickly, Climis grabbed his son and ran toward the sacristy room, where church furnishings and records were stored. As people scrambled for cover, he beckoned them inside. With over 40 people in the room, he shut the wooden doors and slid a steel rod to bar the handles.

“But it was very thin…any one of the four terrorists could enter the room and kill us easily,” he said, recalling the scene from his Baghdad home.

Climis and his son lay frozen on the floor, listening to the horrors on the other side of the door. Shrieks were followed by bullets. Children cried out. Explosion after explosion shook the walls.

One gunman told a mother to quiet her wailing infant. When she

was unable, Climis heard the pop of a bullet. The screaming ceased.

He could hear Father Wassim, his friend, try and reason with the men.

He too was shot and killed.

From a small hole in the door he eyed another gunman, standing just a few feet away. How young he was, he thought in that moment.

A grenade was tossed so close to the sacristy that the water cooler burst, flooding the room and those huddled inside. Shivering, Climis noticed his ears were ringing.

Eleven years on, he is still deaf in his right ear.

Desperate, he called a friend who worked in the Baghdad Operations Command. Half an hour and help would come, the friend told him.

Four panic-stricken hours later, the lights suddenly went off. Climis braced for the worst. Another explosion followed, louder than any before.

Then the rush of footsteps and volley of firearms.

Iraq’s elite Counter-Terrorism Service stormed the church at 9 p.m.

But Climis didn’t let anyone leave See “Pope,” A11

Opinion BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Pork belly economics

Friday, March 5, 2021 A11

Colonizing the Arts: The Case of Magellan, the Queen and the Sto. Niño

Harald Eustachius A. Tomintz

EAGLE WATCH

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here is a documentary on Netflix, Korean Pork Belly Rhapsody, which serves up several delightful—though hunger-inducing—insights. One of these ideas is the argument that the South Korean economy was able to develop through businesses catering to the appetites of their working class, which resulted in a culture built around the consumption of pork belly. This kind of food culture, known as “samgyeopsal,” which is also called “samgyupsal” or simply “samgyup” in the Philippines, was part of an economic revolution according to the documentary.

Of course, South Korea developed economically not just due to its ability to feed its population. Reforms in other sectors of their society, such as improving basic education, also played important roles in this growth. However, the fundamental insight here is that an economy can only run if it has workers that are well fed. That may sound commonsensical, but it is no laughing matter: the second Sustainable Development Goal is to achieve zero hunger worldwide. There is also evidence to support a correlation between nutrition, good health, completing one’s education, and performing effectively at work. All of these are factors that, in turn, reflect overall subjective quality of life, and the ability to function fully as members of society.

The Philippines is a country where, according to the online and publicly available Sustainable Development Report 2020, “major challenges remain” to the end of eliminating hunger, although it is said to be “moderately improving” on that front. The measures for this examine not just hunger, but malnutrition, phenomena such as stunting and wasting in children below five years of age, and obesity in adults. Food security and agricultural capabilities are also considered.

With the pandemic still upon us, one might nervously wonder if we are going to enter a state of famine. The prices of food products are steadily rising due to inflation and supply limitations, resulting also in much higher prices for certain commodities, including pork. This, coupled with the reality of lost jobs and livelihoods, makes for a legitimate cause for concern: at the end of the day, will we still be able to afford enough to eat?

One should also certainly be wary of statistics and aggregate generalizations, as they do not fully represent reality. Still, there is no denying that difficulties remain.

In what other ways can food security be attained? Going back to the documentary mentioned earlier, they made an interesting point in showing how market competition naturally emerged to provide food services to their work force in an efficient way.

The phenomenon of cooking pork is not something exclusive to South Korea: consider Austrian “Schweinsbraten,” Filipino “liempo,” and so on.

It is also not something universally

Pope. . .

continued from A10

the room—they had no idea what was going on.

After a minute, someone knocked on the door, and a voice came: “I am your brother from the CTS, and everyone will leave this church safely.”

Climis had to see his beloved church one last time. The CTS officer told him no, it was very dangerous, there could be IEDs. But he dared to look anyway.

“I don’t wish anyone to see what I saw. Body parts everywhere. I saw one body with just a head, hands and chest, the rest was blown apart.”

Then, his gaze turned up toward the vaulted ceiling.

“There were scraps of human flesh,” he said. “It stayed there for weeks.”

In total, 52 worshippers and po-

accepted, as there are religions, such as Judaism and Islam, which forbid the consumption of pork. That said, easy access to a certain or particular type of food isn’t the sole answer, nor the point here. The key would be in providing diverse food services in the market that cater to the needs and wants of various peoples and cultures. In a manner of speaking, this is a matter of taste.

The role of the private sector is clearly demonstrated in the documentary. It was the fierce demand and need to provide innovative methods of cooking pork belly that drove the spirit of the market forward, eventually being able to provide a variety of affordable feeding services to the South Korean work force through competition.

Where the market demand is great, the market would do well to provide. The economy reinforces itself with the emergence of eating places that reflect the spirit of the times, feeding the workers and allowing them to produce more on full stomachs as well.

In the current context of being unable to truly go out with ease, with many food and restaurant businesses suffering the effects of the pandemic, it is hard to visualize how the food culture will emerge in the following years as the Philippines goes back toward achieving steady economic growth.When the right time comes, however, expect that the market for food services will rise once more. The demand to have these available for people who work will return, and until then, the economy will adapt and evolve. New innovations in delivery services and logistics will continue to develop, as they have done in this time of crisis.

As for the speculation on if things will ever be normal in the food culture after this, the strong pull toward eating out with friends, family, and colleagues is ingrained in the way Filipinos eat together. The gastronomy industry should bounce back when the work force and the consumers need these services in full swing again. It is as certain as the need to eat.

Erratum: In the column last week entitled Policy Tightrope—January inflation should read 4.2 and expected February inflation should read 5.1.

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

lice were killed in the attack and the ensuing raid by security forces to free the hostages. The Islamic State of Iraq, an al-Qaida-affiliated group, claimed the attack.

Four years later, a new iteration of the group calling itself the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria would overrun vast swaths of northern Iraq, pushing out entire Christian communities, prompting concerns of more marginalization within the historic Iraqi minority. Later, Shiite militia groups would move in and erect checkpoints provoking fear among those who remained.

Two events that traumatic October night sowed the seeds of distrust for over a decade to come.

As gunmen wreaked havoc inside the church, someone fired shots from the outside through a window into the sacristy. Climis couldn’t see who, but thought they were outsiders supporting the terrorists.

Tito Genova Valiente

annotations

“Until the lions have their own historians, the history of the hunt will always glorify the hunter.”—Chinua Achebe, Nigerian Novelist

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hree paintings dubbed Legacy winners of the Quincentennial Art Competition under the National Historical Commission of the Philippines are once more polarizing Filipinos online.

Specific is the main instruction: the painting should be representational. Abstract and found-object installations, organically subversive in their denial of traditional definitions of what constitutes a painting, are out of the picture.

There are four themes in the competition, which the participating artists have to articulate in their entry. From the web page of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, we see indicated the four themes said to represent four quincentennial milestones that should guide participating artists.

To quote, here are the themes: Sovereignty. This celebrates the 500th anniversary of the Victory at Mactan. To be depicted here is the gallantry of Lapu-Lapu and his warriors in repelling the forces of Magellan in the Battle of Mactan; Magnanimity. This commemorates the compassion of our ancestors to the first circumnavigators of the world (i.e., Magellan-Elcano expedition) who came to Homonhon, Guiuan, in Eastern Samar after traversing the deadly Pacific for almost three months: starving, undernourished, sick; Unity. This underscores the contributions of various nationalities in circumnavigating the world for the first time. The contribution of our ancestors is depicted through the blood compact between Rajah of Mazaua and Magellan; and, Legacy.

This embodies the legacy of the first circumnavigation of the world to our country: the introduction of Christianity. To be depicted here is

the presentation of the image of the Santo Niño to Queen Juana of Cebu in April 1521.

How did the artists respond to these themes? Were they bothered at all by the one-sided focus of the themes, one that eschews a more critical appraisal of histories?

To see the first circumnavigation of the world in terms of its legacy in the form of a new religion is to be appraised of the benign aspect of colonization. This means regarding conquest and its concomitant act of being vanquished as beneficent.

Nowhere in the theme is there a fissure where the artists can question the evil of a foreign force coming to a land with the aim of conquering it and making out of its people slaves.

Or, maybe we could even rethink now our memories and embrace the fiction of good governance from Magellan and his cohorts. The density of the situation presented (and artistically encouraged by a government institution) allows us to finally realize that there is indeed an official view of imperialism and colonization in this land: it was good and it remains to be good after 500 years.

If we stick thus to contest rules— and don’t we just love being neutral and objective—there is no place for our rage at what the three canvases depict. All three winners show Magellan bearing the tiny image of Santo Niño or Child Jesus, the conqueror’s hand extended to give the icon to Queen Juana. By the time of the gift, the primary wife of Rajah Humabon, had already changed her

name from Hara Humamay to Juana (or had accepted the advice that she be named so and be called a “Queen.”)

How she became a Queen is a stretch that even fiction writers would find difficult to justify in their works.

With colonial history being close to fiction from the side of the defeated, this is not the crisis that arises from the Legacy winners.

What the online debates are bristling about are numerous. One is the general notion of a submissive woman vis-a-vis the superior position of Magellan. Weren’t there proofs indicating the power of women before the Spanish arrival? To what degree is it accurate that women accepting gifts or honoring a man should be seated? Ethnographies about the Malay-Polynesian communities narrate how it was impolite for women to remain seated when talking with a man. Was it the same with the areas in what is now southern Philippines?

Was it even polite for a woman to be seated when honored?

An interesting aspect of the confrontations online with regard to these paintings was how the title of each piece had influenced the viewer’s perception and/or appreciation of the re-imagining of that 16th century event. Two minor prizes are named “Ang Mahinungdanong Pag-abot sa Balaang Bata” literally, “The Important Arrival of the Blessed Child”) and “The Acceptance

of Faith,” respectively. The Grand Prize winner bears the title “The Presentation of the Idol.” Cebuanos, some claim, are insulted by the label.

Catholics, the other voices say, see the title as an affront to their religion.

Each hour, the thread of discussion grows, becoming more animated and oftentimes hostile.

One can be lost in the bellicose and seemingly directionless fury of some thoughts and yet one can also read, of all things, hope in what is taking place after five centuries. And that is the fact that our histories—written, imagined and visually propounded—do not provide us solace or home. That one cannot just ignore a grand name a painter affixes to his illustration of defeat and conversion. Somewhere in that tag or design is an inquiry, a quest and query, an inquisition.

Somewhere in these paintings are canvases with representations as well as conjectures about memories that can never be collective, or whose meanings will remain segmented according to wealth, wisdom, and the lack of one or both.

As for the word “idol,” the winning artist has hit the jackpot, accidentally, with a branding which mocks Magellan’s manipulation of the sacred child. And, as we often say online: Winner!

E-mail: titovaliente@yahoo.com

Beware of the Greeks when they come bearing gifts Manny F. Dooc

TELLTALES

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ow that we have the coronavirus vaccine, our authorities should ensure that we implement its successful rollout. We have witnessed a series of simulation exercises in key places of our country while waiting for the delivery of the vaccines. Indeed, if practice makes perfect, then there should be no hitch in its distribution. In fact, some wisecracks have observed that our preparation is complete; the only thing lacking is the vaccine. This is now the time where the rubber meets the road. Our government should be able to demonstrate that we are successfully taking the first step down the road to normalcy. Definitely, the first 600,000 doses of Sinovac vaccine will hardly make a dent in our efforts to achieve herd immunity.

It is less than half a percent of our target of 140 million doses we need to immunize 70 percent of our population.

The current short supply of the vaccine is complicated by the people’s misgivings of the available vaccine.

There is still a serious, lingering concern among many of our people regarding the efficacy and safety of Sinovac vaccine. This must be overcome and our government, particularly our President, must convince us that deploying Sinovac or Sinopharm is backed up by science and verifiable evidence that it is not inferior to the other brands. Despite its approval by our Food and Drug Administration, which paved the way for its delivery to the Philippines ahead of Pfizer, prospective vaccinees are not comfortable getting inoculated with Sinovac. While some hospitals like the PGH have exceeded their target number of vaccinees after its Medical Director and head of the hospital has

volunteered to be vaccinated on the first day of the roll out, this was not the case in many other vaccination centers. It may be prudent to wait how our people will receive the first batch of Sinovac vaccines, which are now distributed in many parts of our country. By then we may already have the results of the post-vaccination study that is being undertaken by the relevant authorities. Such a study will validate if there are attendant risks in undertaking the vaccine shot.

It has been recently announced that the Philippines is buying 1 million doses of Sinovac by the middle of this month. This time it’s no longer free and we have already set aside P700 million (or P700 per dose) to pay for it. Moreover, we are told that we will be ordering a total of 20 million doses of coronavirus vaccines from

China to support our vaccination program. That will involve a hefty sum of money although its details are not yet known to us since the financial terms of the purchase are not available. What is certain is that its purchase shall be funded by the huge loans, which contribute to our burgeoning debts. We can sleep better if China is selling its vaccines to us at cost only without any profit to them or their manufacturer. After getting the free vaccines without China asking anything in return, according to Malacañang, President Duterte promised to visit China to personally thank its paramount leader, Xi Jinping, for his benevolent gesture. The subject of geo-politics in the West Philippine Sea which is dominated by China is so complex that it is difficult to divine that giving us free vaccines roughly worth P420 million is strictly an act of pure generosity. China’s intention and self-serving actions in the region are well known and we hardly know right now what, if any, it may get in return. Maybe we should have asked in the same manner that we have demanded the US to pay us for the VFA? What is good for the goose is good for the gander. nnn “Beware of the Greeks when they come bearing gifts.” This popular proverb lifted from Aeneid was written by the famous Roman poet Virgil.

It seems to apply to the pervading distrust against the Chinese vaccines.

Despite China’s claim to the contrary, it is clear that the China vaccine diplomacy is clearly at play here. China has been at the forefront of providing coronavirus vaccines to developing countries. At present, over 50 countries all over the world are getting free or cheap vaccines from China to

help them tide over the pandemic.

China has committed more or less 500 million doses of vaccines, which is the most from any wealthy country.

More than 25 countries have already inoculated their population with Sinovac and more countries are lining up.

China has reaped benefits from the pandemic. It’s successful handling of the pandemic has been a model in containing the spread of the virus.

The early opening up of its businesses, which resulted in China’s economic recovery and growth, is the envy of every nation still devastated by the pandemic. Its successful vaccine diplomacy has helped ease the world’s distrust of China. Without doubt, its aggressive diplomatic initiative has gained the friendship and support of the countries still reeling from the health disaster brought about by the pandemic. It would be difficult to counter China’s outreach and countries like the US and European powerhouses are at a great disadvantage to challenge China’s political and economic inroad. China has provided the vaccine to low and middle-income nations across the world, which have been left out by wealthy countries that have cornered the vaccine supply. Even Hungary, a member of the European Union, had its Prime Minister Victor Orban get a Sinovac shot after ordering the vaccine from China. He was followed by other heads of states, like Joko Widodo of Indonesia. When the plane carrying the China-made vaccines landed in Santiago, Chile, the Chilean President, Sebastian Piñera, said: “Today is a day of joy, emotion and hope.” This pandemic has given China a tremendous chance to recast its image and earn the trust and respect of the world. It should not waste the opportunity.

A12 Friday, March 5, 2021

PHL joins calls vs state detention as tool vs govts

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HE Philippines formally joined 59 other countries that expressed grave concern about the use of arbitrary arrest or detention of foreign nationals by states to gain unnecessary leverage over their governments, contrary to international law.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro L. Locsin Jr., signed on to the declaration against arbitrary detention in state-tostate relations during a social-media appearance.

“By signing on to this declaration, we lend our voice to a chorus of nations calling for the release of foreign nationals who are arbitrarily detained by foreign states and urging all states to refrain from this reprehensible practice.”

“We stand in solidarity with countries whose nationals have been detained by other states seeking leverage over them,” he added.

A netizen tweeted congratulated Locsin, saying, "At the time the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was opened for signature it was not binding, but thanks to the visionaries who signed it, most of its provisions are now customary and conventional law. Congratulations for the vision.”

Fr. Ranhilio Aquino, noted constitutionalist and law dean, replying to Locsin, said, “Detention of foreign nationals by aggressive states to gain leverage against the States of origin of such detained nationals is wrong on two fronts: first, it is a violation of human rights; second, it constitutes aggression against the State whose nationals are detained.

Continued on A2

Digital platforms help boost RTB haul to ₧463B

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By Cai U. Ordinario

@caiordinario

HE Philippines was able to raise P463.3 billion from the issuance of the 25th tranche of threeyear Retail Treasury Bonds (RTBs), according to the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr).

In her message to reporters last Thursday, National Treasurer Rosalia V. De Leon said government was able to raise P411.8 billion in new money while P51.5 billion was raised through the switch tender offer.

De Leon noted that the RTBs attracted more buyers from online and other applications compared to previously-issued RTBs. “RTB 25 demonstrates increasing awareness of retail investors on government securities not only as safe and convenient investment particularly with easy access with mobile applications; more so, way of contributing to a strong and inclusive economic rebound,” the National Treasurer said.

RTB 25 had a coupon rate of 2.375 percent per annum. For as low as P5,000, Filipinos were able to invest in these RTBs. This is the third time an RTB offering was coupled with an exchange offer. The bond exchange was wellreceived, with 12.9 percent of the

outstanding amount of the eligible bonds swapped for RTB 25.

As with the BTr’s recent offerings, the bureau’s online ordering facility was made available, providing a convenient channel for investors and overseas Filipinos to invest in RTB 25. Investors were also able to invest through the Bonds.PH mobile application and the Overseas Filipino Bank (OF Bank) Mobile Banking Application. A total of P55.6 million was raised from the online and mobile channels.

The BTr awarded P221.2 billion during the auction held last 09 February 2021. An additional aggregate amount of P242.1 billion, sourced from new subscriptions and bond exchange, was raised during the public offer period that lasted until 04 March 2021.

“As we endeavor to win back our growth momentum from the clutches of the pandemic, we turn to retail treasury bonds as our curtain raiser in what is shaping to be

another busy year for fundraising.

We have introduced further refinements to our online selling channels, at the same time expanding our partnership to a greater number of banks, with the intention of extending further our reach, bearing in mind the large population of Filipinos working abroad,” De Leon said in a statement.

Proceeds from the issuance will partially fund the 2021 budget and support programs for economic recovery and strengthening of the country’s health-care system.

The national government has been issuing RTBs since 2001 as part of its efforts to support financial inclusion and literacy among Filipinos.

Generally considered low-risk investment instruments, RTBs allow investors to earn a fixed interest based on prevailing market rates that are paid quarterly during the term of the bond.

The joint lead issue managers for the 25th RTB offering were the Development Bank of the Philippines and LandBank of the Philippines. The joint issue managers are: BDO Capital & Investment Corp.; BPI Capital Corp.; China Bank Capital Corp.; First Metro Investment Corp.; PNB Capital and Investment Corp.; RCBC Capital Corp.; SB Capital Investment Corp.; and, UnionBank of the Philippines.

AMID SPIKE IN NCR CASES, NO PLAN TO PUT IT UNDER ECQ

By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco Correspondent

ESPITE the uptick in Covid-19 cases in the National Capital Region (NCR), Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said that there is no plan yet to place the metropolis under strict quarantine measures.

Vergeire said a virtual meeting was held on Wednesday afternoon involving the Metro Manila mayors, Health Secretary Francisco T. Duque III, officials from the Department of the Interior and Local Government, and some health experts, to discuss the Covid-19 situation in the NCR. “They were reminded of the strict compliance to the minimum public health standards,” Vergeire said, adding that the local executives should not only look at the variants as the problem but the observance as well of the proper wearing of face mask, face shield, frequent handwashing, and physical distancing.

On Wednesday, the OCTA Research Team warned that if the trend continues, the NCR could record 2,200 cases per day by the end of March 2021, at which time the country is projected to have 665,000 Covid-19 cases and 14,000 deaths.

She said that the mayors were also reminded to adopt India’s RABI model, which was successful in containing the surge in cases in July to August last year.

This model includes: intense contact tracing, quarantine, and isolation.

She stressed that those who were

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contact-traced should be quarantined within 24 hours to prevent the spread of the virus.

Pasay cases

Pasay City Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano, meanwhile, rejects the idea of placing the city under enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) following the surge of Covid-19 cases and four cases of B1.351 (South Africa) variant recorded in the city.

Rubiano admitted that ECQ was one of her options when she was informed by the Department of Health (DOH) that the South Africa variant was detected in the city. “However, we observed that we have contained the cases within the community,” Rubiano said in a press briefing.

She said that she realized that ECQ would not be the best option for now for it would also affect the whole of the metropolis.

“The [local and international] airports are here, the LRT, the MRT. We are a travel hub.

When you place Pasay under ECQ, domestic flights will be cancelled, international flights will be restricted,” she stressed.

She added that Metro Manila will “adjust accordingly.”

“Declaring ECQ is one thing but managing it is another matter,” she said, adding that it would also be the subject of consultations first with the Inter-Agency Task Force.

The Covid-19 cases in the country surged to 584,667 on Thursday after 2,452 additional cases were logged.

Companies BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Biggest IPO listing: Lucky Me maker shoots for ₧72-B goal

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By VG Cabuag

@villygc

ONDE Nissin Corp., the maker of famous Lucky Me! instant noodles and Skyflakes biscuits, has filed for a P72.45-billion initial public offering, which would be the country’s biggest listing to date.

In its filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the company said it will sell some 3.6 billion common shares and an overallotment option of 540 million shares, at an offer price of up to P17.50 apiece.

The overallotment option shares will mainly come from the holdings of Indonesian Henry Soesanto, the company's chief executive.

Its shares will be listed for trading at the Philippine Stock Exchange.

The company engaged UBS AG Singapore Branch, Citigroup Global Markets Limited, Credit Suisse (Sin-

gapore) Limited and J.P. Morgan Securities PLC as joint global coordinators for the offer. BDO Capital and Investment Corp., BPI Capital Corp. and First Metro Investment Corp. will serve as local lead underwriters.

Some 70 percent of the share sale will be offered to institutional investors overseas and the rest to the domestic market.

The company is about 70 percent owned by Indonesian investors and the rest by Betty Ang, the company's president.

Main shareholders of the compa-

ny before the IPO include Ang, who owns 22.73 percent of the company, Indonesians Hartono Kweefanus with 29.33 percent ownership and Soesanto with 12.63 percent.

Ang is married to Hoediono Kweefanus, Hartono's brother, and owns 6.6 percent of the company.

Soesanto, meanwhile, is the wife of Hoediono's sister Monica Darmono, the company's treasurer who owns 5.33 percent.

Proceeds from its primary offer will be used to fund the company’s capital expenditures at about P22.22 billion or 37 percent of the total; some P17.3 billion or 29 percent will be for redemption of convertible notes it gave to Arran Investment; and P20.87 billion or 34 percent will be for repayment of loans.

In April 2019, the company issued in favor of Arran Investment Pte. Ltd. a convertible note at an issue price of P9.1 billion. The note is convertible into common shares of the company representing approximately 6.44 percent of the total issued and outstanding capital stock of the company on a fully-

diluted basis.

It also had to repay the loans borrowed by the company, Monde Nissin (UK) Ltd and Sarimonde Foods Corp. from commercial banks.

The company is one of the top food manufacturers in the country with a portfolio of various iconic and well-recognized brands. The group’s two core businesses are the Asia-Pacific branded food and beverage business and the meat alternative business, which includes the production, marketing and sales of the Quorn and Cauldron meat alternatives brands.

Its instant noodle brands in the country corners 68 percent of the local market, while its biscuits have a 30.5-percent share. The noodles accounted for half of its sales last year in Asia-Pacific of about P50.7 billion; and biscuits, at 33 percent.

Quorn Foods is the market leader in the meat alternatives market in the UK with Quorn and Cauldron being the number one and number three brands with 28 percent and 5 percent grocery retail market share by value in 2020, respectively.

ICTSI jacks up capex by 30% to $250M

By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan

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NTERNATIONAL Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) is spending $250 million in capital expenditures this year, a third larger than its actual spend in 2020, as it completes the expansion and the construction of its various ports globally.

Based on a statement attached to a disclosure, the company has decided to increase its capital spending program for 2021 by 30 percent to $250 million from its actual capital outlays of $198.7 million in 2020.

The budget will be used to complete the expansion of the Manila International Container Terminal Inc. (MICT), the yard expansion of its port in Matadi, Democratic Republic of Congo, and the new expansion project in Melbourne, Australia.

It will also be used to acquire and upgrade new equipment and for its annual maintenance requirements.

ICTSI also reported that its profits grew by a percentage point to $101.8 million in 2020 from $100.4 million the year prior thanks to the 2-percent increase in its gross revenues to $1.51 billion from $1.48 million

PLDT sees its core income rising 6% to ₧30B in 2021

P

LDT Inc. expects its telco core income to grow by about 6 percent to as much as P30 billion this year, driven mainly by the projected growth of its home, wireless and enterprise businesses.

Manuel V. Pangilinan, the company’s president and chairman, said the profit guidance of P29 billion to P30 billion is in line with the continued growth of the telco’s bottomline, as it continues to surmount the negative effects of the pandemic.

“Across the board, there will be increases and of course service revenues in aggregate will be higher than what was shown in 2020,” he said in a press briefing on Thursday.

Pangilinan said the home broadband business will likely post a high double-digit growth, while both wireless and enterprise verticals will be inthe high single-digit levels.

Revenues this year, he added, are expected to post a high single-digit increase, which he described as “a compulsive number.”

“I think it’s a paramount goal for management to achieve a P30-billion telco core income for the year.

We’re giving a range, because we don’t know the pace of economic recovery. But, we’re still hopeful that despite the sometimes cloudy outlook in the economy, the company is still doing really well,” he said.

Pangilinan is optimistic that the company will move past the P30billion telco core income mark in the coming years, as the company introduces new solutions in the market beyond connectivity.

“We won’t stop at P30 billion.

We will push on. The number 30 is important—it’s a milestone for us at this time because it gives us a platform to push forward to a much higher number to accomplish,” he said.

Pangilinan also reported that the telco core income for 2020 reached P28.1 billion, a 4-percent increase from P27.1 billion the year prior, as revenues climbed by 9 percent to P171.5 billion from P157.7 billion due to the surge in the demand for data and broadband as the pandemic-induced lockdowns brought much work and schooling to cyberspace.

Its net income, on the other hand, reached P24.3 billion, an 8-percent increase from P22.5 billion the year prior, owing to the growth in revenues and the sale of some of its assets.

He described this financial performance as “stellar” despite what he called as the “year from hell,” when multiple calamities hit the country and the spread of Covid-19.

Data and broadband revenues now account for 73 percent of PLDT’s total business, growing by 4x since 2012, when voice and text still account for bulk of the company’s total revenues.

For 2021, the company plans to roll out more of its 5G and 4G sites, lay more fiber, and install more ports to address the strong demand for connectivity due to the pandemic.

PLDT is spending between P88 billion and P92 billion this year to beef up its fixed and wireless networks.

the previous year, and the lower cash operating expenses resulting from the continuous group-wide cost reduction and optimization measures.

The port operator’s volumes were flattish in 2020 at 10.19 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) due to the pandemic’s effect on global trade and lowdown restrictions.

“We were swift to take action at the start of the pandemic to initiate cost reduction, reduce capital expenditures, and later seized opportunities to lengthen our debt maturities at lower rates,” said Enrique K. Razon, Jr., ICTSI chairman and president.

These, plus its health and safety measures, helped the company navigate through the weakened demand for terminal services in some of its ports around the world, he added.

“And as our volumes rebounded from their lows when lockdown restrictions began to lift in the second half, so did our margins reflect the benefits of these actions. Those gains have continued into the new financial year as ICTSI emerges from these trying times leaner, stronger and optimistic of the future as governments around the world begin the herculean task of global mass vaccination,” he said.

Cirtek says its P2-B paper got ‘above-average’ ratings

L

AGUNA-BASED Cirtek Holdings Philippines Corp. on Thursday said it secured an above-average score from a local ratings firm for the company's P2 billion float worth of commercial papers.

The company said it received PRS A (corp.) with a stable outlook from the Philippine Ratings Services Corp. That rating means that Cirtek has an above average capacity to meet its financial commitments relative to that of other Philippine corporates.

The company, however, is more susceptible to adverse changes in circumstances and economic conditions than higher-rated corporates, according to its ratings.

The rating was based on the company's manageable liquidity and capitalization levels; its established track record in the industry, supported by a strong and experienced management team that has navigated the group through economic cycles, crises and industry challenges; strong customer base of well-established and global companies; improved profit margins despite lower revenues, attributable to the company’s cost management efforts; and highly competitive and cyclical industry that is susceptible to adverse changes.

Cirtek's P2-billion debt is part of its P6-billion shelf registration of commercial papers with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Cirtek is a global technology company focused on wireless com-

munication. It is an independent, complete solutions provider for subcontract manufacturing of semiconductor devices and provides a broad range of assembly and testing services for various product applications and industries. The company has been offering its products and services to several customers in the US, which in 2019 contributed half of its revenues, Europe at 19 percent and Asia at 30 percent.

“Such exposes (Cirtek) to diversified risks relating to the performance of the economies where these customers are based, particularly with the ongoing recession in most countries brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic,” its ratings said.

The industry is highly competitive and cyclical in nature, with the company operating in a market with larger international players.

In response to this, however, the group has made recent moves to provide more complex patented products to give itself a competitive edge and to be able to achieve higher margins,” it said.

The telecommunications sector, which comprises a huge portion of Cirtek US unit Quintel’s customers, currently has a positive industry outlook due to a surge in the traffic of data and voice.

In sharp contrast to many other industries, telecom has been exempted from major Covid-19-related restrictions and is recognized as an essential service, it said. VG Cabuag

Friday, March 5, 2021

B1

Megawide aims to get ₧4B from preferred share sale

By VG Cabuag @villygc

M

EGAWIDE Construction Corp. on Thursday said it plans to raise as much as P4 billion from the sale of preferred shares.

The company said it will sell some 40 million preferred shares with a targetted price of P100 apiece through either public offering or private transaction.

Proceeds of the share sale will be used to refinance outstanding obligations and for general corporate purposes. The issuance is expected to be completed by the third quarter of this year, the company said.

The said shares will come from the increase of the company's authorized capital stock of its preferred shares by an additional 26 million. Megawide said it submitted to regulators its application for the increase, which will bring the company’s total to 150 million in cumulative, non-voting, non-participating, non-convertible, perpetual preferred shares.

“The success of these initiatives reflects the strong support and confidence of our financial partners in Megawide’s prospects and shareholder value-creation. We look forward to a more fruitful cooperation between sources and users of fund as we slowly build our country back towards a First-World Philippines,” Edgar Saavedra, chairman and CEO of Megawide, said.

“Aside from resulting in a more manageable debt maturity tower, these exercises are very timely as we are able to take advantage of a low interest rate regime and generate savings from interest costs. Over the long run, this will enable us to manage our liabilities more efficiently and strengthen our balance sheet altogether,” Ramon H. Diaz, Megawide’s CFO, said.

The increase in authorized capital stock is part of the company’s longterm financial management program which began February last year, when it raised P3.6 billion from the issuance of corporate notes to retire maturing obligations. This was followed on by the issuance of P4.36-billion series 2 preferred shares offering last November to fund its long-term growth roadmap.

Megawide's previous projects include the 10,000 classrooms program, the transformation of the Mactan-Cebu International Airport and the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange.

"As much as these infrastructure projects provide a stable, recurring revenue base for the company, they also uplift the quality of infrastructure services and facilities in the country.

The continuing support of our investors enables us to make great strides in helping our country restart after this crisis. From investors to partner communities, together we will reach a First-World Philippines,” Saavedra said.

B2

Companies BusinessMirror

Friday, March 5, 2021

PSE STOCK QUOTATIONS

March 4, 2021

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

ASIA UNITED BDO UNIBANK BANK PH ISLANDS CHINABANK EAST WEST BANK METROBANK PB BANK PBCOM PHIL NATL BANK PSBANK RCBC SECURITY BANK UNION BANK BRIGHT KINDLE COL FINANCIAL FERRONOUX HLDG IREMIT MEDCO HLDG MANULIFE NTL REINSURANCE PHIL STOCK EXCH SUN LIFE

43.5 108.9 88 24.35 9.96 47.95 10.24 22.15 24.6 54.8 17.34 129.4 73.65 1.89 3.92 3.4 1.48 0.42 850 0.75 150.9 2,200

44 109 88.1 24.45 9.98 48 10.4 23.4 25 55 17.5 129.5 73.9 1.9 3.99 3.5 1.5 0.44 896 0.78 151 2,240

43.7 109 88 24.5 10 48.35 10.4 22.15 25 55.2 17.34 130 73.6 1.88 4 3.35 1.55 0.43 895.5 0.81 151.2 2,200

44 110.4 88.3 24.5 10.1 48.75 10.4 22.15 25 55.2 17.34 130 73.95 2.1 4 3.6 1.55 0.445 896 0.81 152.5 2,200

43.5 107.5 87 24.35 9.95 47.7 10.4 22.15 24.55 55 17.34 128 73.6 1.7 3.9 3.35 1.48 0.43 895.5 0.75 150.5 2,200

44 108.9 88.1 24.35 9.96 48 10.4 22.15 24.6 55 17.34 129.5 73.9 1.89 3.99 3.4 1.5 0.44 896 0.75 150.9 2,200

700 2,893,960 2,218,300 42,800 438,700 5,878,000 700 100 371,300 1,180 1,000 590,000 6,940 7,304,000 51,000 40,000 163,000 200,000 30 213,000 32,440 95

30,695 316,715,880 195,261,264 1,046,050 4,379,907 283,983,295 7,280 2,215 9,166,630 65,020 17,340 76,235,374 512,584 14,142,570 201,910 136,000 243,610 87,200 26,875 164,690 4,899,406 209,000

48,890,452 7,176,259 -34,090 -2,839,340 -94,899,155 397,445 -6,502,025 -36,950 -904,500.00 -48,130 8,955 -305,406 209,000

INDUSTRIAL AC ENERGY 7.11 7.15 7.22 7.23 7.06 7.11 16,204,900 115,856,080 ALSONS CONS 1.29 1.3 1.29 1.31 1.29 1.29 617,000 800,390 ABOITIZ POWER 24.4 24.75 24.5 25.1 24.4 24.4 1,411,800 34,850,425 BASIC ENERGY 1.13 1.14 1.19 1.19 1.13 1.13 70,015,000 80,782,900 FIRST GEN 30 30.1 30.2 30.2 29.25 30.1 1,432,200 43,043,160 72.2 72.45 72.3 72.45 72.2 72.2 26,300 1,900,073.50 FIRST PHIL HLDG 277.2 277.6 281 283 277.2 277.6 237,990 66,487,404 MERALCO 15.1 15.12 15.32 15.58 15.08 15.1 781,000 11,876,202 MANILA WATER PETRON 3.51 3.52 3.51 3.51 3.5 3.51 1,072,000 3,756,830 PETROENERGY 3.71 3.88 3.67 3.72 3.67 3.72 56,000 207,640 PHX PETROLEUM 12.1 12.36 12.12 12.36 12.12 12.36 14,000 172,320 PILIPINAS SHELL 22.25 22.5 21.9 23 21.8 22.25 528,300 11,754,905 10.16 10.18 10.28 10.28 10.12 10.16 87,400 887,942 SPC POWER VIVANT 14.5 14.94 14.5 14.5 14.5 14.5 100 1,450 AGRINURTURE 7.02 7.1 7.04 7.19 7 7.1 3,132,300 22,201,822 3.38 3.44 3.4 3.44 3.36 3.44 330,000 1,128,630 AXELUM CNTRL AZUCARERA 13.3 13.5 13.5 13.5 13.5 13.5 600 8,100 CENTURY FOOD 17.74 17.78 17.7 17.88 17.62 17.78 1,004,200 17,845,504 DEL MONTE 8.5 8.79 8.8 8.85 8.5 8.79 185,300 1,576,933 DNL INDUS 7.58 7.59 7.37 7.58 7.37 7.58 3,016,700 22,721,733 10.2 10.26 10.28 10.28 9.99 10.26 1,373,500 13,853,161 EMPERADOR 66.65 66.7 66.9 66.9 66.6 66.7 60,480 4,034,745 SMC FOODANDBEV 0.64 0.65 0.64 0.65 0.64 0.65 87,000 56,330 ALLIANCE SELECT FRUITAS HLDG 1.48 1.5 1.51 1.52 1.48 1.48 2,157,000 3,209,460 GINEBRA 51.7 52 51.7 52 51.7 51.7 6,850 354,157 JOLLIBEE 189.7 189.9 186 191 184 189.9 1,247,670 235,698,237 LIBERTY FLOUR 32.6 33.2 32.95 33.25 32.95 33.25 1,000 33,030 MACAY HLDG 7.49 8.19 7.48 8.2 7.48 8.19 500 3,956 6.5 6.51 6.5 6.51 6.45 6.46 56,600 367,523 MAXS GROUP 0.385 0.39 0.375 0.415 0.375 0.385 41,070,000 16,254,000 MG HLDG 7.16 7.2 7.3 7.3 7.15 7.2 1,111,800 8,004,571 SHAKEYS PIZZA 1.15 1.16 1.16 1.17 1.14 1.15 2,337,000 2,680,600 ROXAS AND CO RFM CORP 4.56 4.75 4.75 4.75 4.75 4.75 8,000 38,000 ROXAS HLDG 1.62 1.63 1.74 2.25 1.59 1.62 5,575,000 10,629,640 SWIFT FOODS 0.144 0.146 0.15 0.152 0.14 0.146 24,720,000 3,546,160 UNIV ROBINA 130.4 131.2 131.9 132 128 131.2 1,413,650 184,047,198 0.88 0.89 0.89 0.9 0.88 0.89 1,987,000 1,760,550 VITARICH 2.21 2.25 2.25 2.25 2.25 2.25 5,000 11,250 VICTORIAS CONCRETE A 55.7 55.8 54 55.9 54 55.7 660 36,420 CONCRETE B 60 67 59.75 70 59.75 67 1,480 95,687.50 CEMEX HLDG 1.33 1.34 1.32 1.34 1.3 1.33 2,083,000 2,743,210 EAGLE CEMENT 11.8 12.2 12 12 11.8 11.8 91,200 1,086,522 EEI CORP 8.15 8.18 8.22 8.22 8.15 8.15 305,500 2,497,623 HOLCIM 6.01 6.04 5.99 6.1 5.99 6.04 482,100 2,901,591 7.1 7.12 7.2 7.3 7.09 7.1 1,770,000 12,638,497 MEGAWIDE 11.86 11.88 11.88 11.88 11.86 11.88 41,000 486,408 PHINMA 1.32 1.33 1.38 1.39 1.29 1.32 1,733,000 2,310,170 TKC METALS 2.94 2.95 3.01 3.03 2.85 2.95 10,741,000 31,675,470 VULCAN INDL CROWN ASIA 2.05 2.08 2.11 2.11 2.04 2.05 28,000 57,930 EUROMED 2.21 2.26 2.29 2.29 2.17 2.26 404,000 907,620 LMG CORP 4.78 4.99 4.81 5.04 4.77 5.04 27,200 130,331 MABUHAY VINYL 4.3 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 1,000 4,470 5.41 5.53 5.41 5.53 5.41 5.53 19,300 104,425 PRYCE CORP CONCEPCION 21.55 21.7 21.15 21.7 21.15 21.7 2,721,700 58,789,075 GREENERGY 4.23 4.26 4.41 4.58 4.14 4.26 49,175,000 211,729,750 12.78 12.8 12.4 13 12.2 12.8 1,811,200 22,926,814 INTEGRATED MICR IONICS 1.22 1.23 1.21 1.23 1.2 1.23 464,000 563,310 PANASONIC 5.85 5.95 6.04 6.04 5.81 5.95 81,200 483,104 SFA SEMICON 1.47 1.48 1.48 1.5 1.47 1.48 766,000 1,137,250 CIRTEK HLDG 6.69 6.72 6.67 6.72 6.55 6.72 894,100 5,939,415

34,755,709 65,000 -12,157,520 -1,930,890 28,095,495 -1,037,122.50 -17,187,980 -3,206,056 -823,880 1,997,990.00 -14,258,677 6,760 -7,164,222 -38,917 -10,716,663.00 660,210.50 -138,780 -22,062,194 -53,914 -141,750 -122,282 -734,840.00 108,240 -39,792,180 -98,560 -692,130 217,320 -555,756 -23,127.00 -9,721,847 -358,176 64,500 -3,374,980 0 -2,676,060 171,836 24,000 16,230 104,888

HOLDING & FRIMS ABACORE CAPITAL 1.17 1.18 1.19 1.21 1.15 1.18 29,665,000 34,913,680 ASIABEST GROUP 7.05 7.3 7.5 7.5 7.2 7.3 108,300 781,636 AYALA CORP 764.5 771.5 780 783.5 764.5 764.5 186,120 143,955,305 ABOITIZ EQUITY 42.1 42.6 42.9 42.9 42.1 42.6 548,200 23,330,890 ALLIANCE GLOBAL 10.74 10.78 10.88 10.88 10.58 10.78 3,783,100 40,674,760 3.02 3.03 3.04 3.05 2.97 3.03 858,000 2,586,940 AYALA LAND LOG 7.2 7.4 7.37 7.4 7.37 7.4 28,000 206,900 ANSCOR ANGLO PHIL HLDG 0.81 0.82 0.82 0.82 0.8 0.81 2,118,000 1,712,500 ATN HLDG A 0.95 0.96 0.95 0.96 0.94 0.96 3,692,000 3,498,130 ATN HLDG B 0.92 0.97 0.97 0.97 0.91 0.97 10,000 9,260 COSCO CAPITAL 5.65 5.66 5.7 5.7 5.61 5.65 1,240,500 7,021,056 DMCI HLDG 5.45 5.48 5.44 5.49 5.4 5.45 3,477,500 18,933,173 FILINVEST DEV 8.86 8.94 8.86 8.86 8.86 8.86 300 2,658 0.24 0.25 0.237 0.25 0.237 0.24 830,000 199,450 FORUM PACIFIC GT CAPITAL 556 560 560 564 545.5 560 88,710 49,561,370 3.63 3.78 3.76 3.8 3.76 3.78 30,000 113,260 HOUSE OF INV JG SUMMIT 66.55 67 65.7 67.15 65.25 67 1,734,290 115,998,750.50 LODESTAR 1.7 1.71 1.65 1.74 1.63 1.7 21,640,000 36,580,280 LOPEZ HLDG 3.77 3.79 3.78 3.78 3.75 3.77 302,000 1,137,930 LT GROUP 13.62 13.86 13.6 13.86 13.4 13.86 2,620,800 35,746,894 MABUHAY HLDG 0.54 0.55 0.54 0.56 0.54 0.55 213,000 115,200 1.86 1.89 1.95 2.25 1.87 1.87 253,000 533,400 MJC INVESTMENTS METRO PAC INV 4.13 4.15 4.13 4.17 4.09 4.13 23,868,000 98,759,950 3.91 4.05 4.35 4.35 3.6 4.05 730,000 2,848,000 PACIFICA HLDG 2.85 2.86 2.65 2.92 2.6 2.85 9,216,000 25,724,080 PRIME MEDIA REPUBLIC GLASS 2.75 2.84 2.75 2.8 2.75 2.75 33,000 90,800 SOLID GROUP 1.3 1.37 1.4 1.4 1.3 1.37 228,000 305,360 SYNERGY GRID 314 334 320 320 314 314 1,490 470,620 SM INVESTMENTS 1,038 1,040 1,045 1,046 1,012 1,040 249,700 258,898,050 125.9 126 127 127 125.9 126 165,020 20,798,178 SAN MIGUEL CORP 0.79 0.82 0.79 0.82 0.79 0.82 199,000 159,190 SOC RESOURCES TOP FRONTIER 138 138.7 139.5 141.5 137 141.5 2,430 342,189 0.245 0.25 0.242 0.26 0.242 0.25 2,510,000 629,040 WELLEX INDUS ZEUS HLDG 0.246 0.249 0.25 0.25 0.241 0.249 1,860,000 457,500

1,015,520.00 -59,834,510 -5,507,540 14,552,672 525,120 -2,345,473 7,438,527 -2,658 -13,324,770 -105,680 -19,297,757 65,230 -471,000 -89,422 -13,139,640 224,160 130,850 -40,570,390 3,477,890 -67,920 -5,200 -

PROPERTY ARTHALAND CORP 0.65 0.66 0.63 0.66 0.63 0.66 737,000 472,440 AYALA LAND 38.5 38.8 39.4 39.4 38.5 38.5 6,635,200 257,186,935 ARANETA PROP 1.31 1.34 1.3 1.35 1.3 1.31 111,000 145,300 AREIT RT 33.9 33.95 34.4 34.6 33.9 33.95 788,100 26,932,930 1.61 1.63 1.63 1.63 1.62 1.62 440,000 713,780 BELLE CORP 0.94 0.95 0.95 0.95 0.89 0.94 1,309,000 1,200,280 A BROWN 0.78 0.8 0.78 0.8 0.78 0.8 259,000 202,690 CITYLAND DEVT CROWN EQUITIES 0.14 0.142 0.14 0.143 0.139 0.142 3,040,000 428,730 CEBU HLDG 7.04 7.18 7.01 7.18 7.01 7.18 114,400 805,046 CEB LANDMASTERS 5.39 5.4 5.49 5.49 5.3 5.39 823,400 4,430,167 CENTURY PROP 0.405 0.41 0.415 0.415 0.4 0.405 1,020,000 413,050 CYBER BAY 0.35 0.355 0.35 0.36 0.35 0.35 410,000 143,600 DOUBLEDRAGON 15.14 15.18 15.1 15.4 15.08 15.14 1,615,900 24,520,640 6.8 6.9 6.7 6.9 6.66 6.9 80,800 545,881 DM WENCESLAO 0.3 0.31 0.315 0.315 0.3 0.3 4,350,000 1,310,700 EMPIRE EAST 0.096 0.098 0.103 0.104 0.096 0.098 6,270,000 629,820 EVER GOTESCO FILINVEST LAND 1.17 1.18 1.15 1.18 1.14 1.18 10,601,000 12,420,260 GLOBAL ESTATE 0.9 0.93 0.95 0.95 0.9 0.9 815,000 747,860 8990 HLDG 7.4 7.59 7.5 7.5 7.5 7.5 10,000 75,000 PHIL INFRADEV 1.56 1.59 1.55 1.62 1.51 1.56 3,279,000 5,136,440 KEPPEL PROP 3 3.26 3.01 3.01 3.01 3.01 3,000 9,030 0.89 0.9 0.91 0.91 0.85 0.9 1,122,000 992,710 CITY AND LAND MEGAWORLD 3.67 3.7 3.73 3.76 3.67 3.67 12,174,000 44,973,640 0.495 0.5 0.51 0.51 0.495 0.5 21,101,000 10,537,415 MRC ALLIED PHIL ESTATES 0.475 0.485 0.5 0.53 0.47 0.485 24,740,000 12,139,300 PRIMEX CORP 1.58 1.59 1.62 1.62 1.49 1.59 1,621,000 2,518,330 ROBINSONS LAND 19.7 19.72 19.6 19.78 19.5 19.72 2,011,200 39,639,278 PHIL REALTY 0.305 0.32 0.305 0.305 0.305 0.305 50,000 15,250 ROCKWELL 1.45 1.46 1.44 1.48 1.42 1.45 108,000 157,490 2.72 2.78 2.77 2.78 2.77 2.78 22,000 60,990 SHANG PROP STA LUCIA LAND 2.3 2.31 2.13 2.32 2.1 2.31 2,507,000 5,514,910 36.8 36.95 36.8 36.95 36.55 36.95 5,556,300 204,716,665 SM PRIME HLDG VISTAMALLS 3.94 4 3.92 4 3.92 4 13,000 51,150 SUNTRUST HOME 1.76 1.78 1.78 1.83 1.74 1.78 1,019,000 1,791,040 VISTA LAND 4.34 4.35 4.27 4.35 4.23 4.34 1,611,000 6,922,260

5,670 -107,616,435 -20,314,915 -118,290 -60,160 128,145 142,679 60,450 -6,571,330 -40,200 72,500 9,800 8,097,580.00 -18,800 -231,540 -21,175,990 2,475 57,200 294,460 -23,612,882 -43,480 -689,250 507,730.00 -149,850 307,030

SERVICES ABS CBN 12.22 12.3 12.46 12.46 12.06 12.22 28,400 349,124 GMA NETWORK 7.24 7.33 7.38 7.47 7.24 7.24 933,000 6,843,691 MANILA BULLETIN 0.47 0.49 0.465 0.49 0.465 0.49 60,000 28,400 MLA BRDCASTING 10.5 11 11 11 11 11 800 8,800 GLOBE TELECOM 2,000 2,006 2,000 2,012 2,000 2,000 34,355 68,762,730 1,290 1,303 1,303 1,307 1,290 1,290 179,515 232,659,910 PLDT 0.255 0.26 0.265 0.27 0.25 0.255 642,220,000 165,987,450 APOLLO GLOBAL 17.68 17.7 18.1 18.1 17.5 17.68 6,666,500 117,929,546 CONVERGE DFNN INC 4.34 4.37 4.44 4.44 4.3 4.37 262,000 1,143,020 DITO CME HLDG 15.5 15.52 15.82 16.16 15.24 15.52 34,058,600 534,867,012 IMPERIAL 1.7 1.72 1.8 1.8 1.68 1.72 398,000 688,630 ISLAND INFO 0.191 0.192 0.172 0.198 0.172 0.191 87,530,000 16,548,280 JACKSTONES 2.1 2.15 2.13 2.15 2.13 2.15 5,000 10,670 3.4 3.41 3.52 3.78 3.21 3.4 136,216,000 484,825,130 NOW CORP 0.5 0.51 0.495 0.54 0.48 0.5 69,410,000 35,497,400 TRANSPACIFIC BR 2.77 2.78 2.7 2.81 2.68 2.77 537,000 1,472,700 PHILWEB 2GO GROUP 9 9.12 8.9 9.21 8.7 9 72,100 649,818 ASIAN TERMINALS 14.76 15.5 15.5 15.5 15.5 15.5 800 12,400 CHELSEA 4.02 4.05 4.15 4.15 4 4.02 718,000 2,904,390 CEBU AIR 44.55 44.6 43.5 45 43.5 44.55 222,200 9,831,360 INTL CONTAINER 118.8 119.6 121.7 122.9 118.8 118.8 1,876,240 225,014,929 16.44 17 16.82 16.82 16.42 16.42 1,200 20,144 LBC EXPRESS LORENZO SHIPPNG 1.21 1.23 1.17 1.29 1.13 1.23 5,478,000 6,643,830 5.93 5.94 5.78 5.95 5.78 5.93 1,331,800 7,832,113 MACROASIA METROALLIANCE A 3.34 3.35 3.45 3.72 3.21 3.34 24,335,000 83,072,660 METROALLIANCE B 2.92 3.27 3.27 3.55 3.26 3.26 154,000 521,420 PAL HLDG 6.38 6.44 6.36 6.44 6.36 6.44 53,300 341,302 HARBOR STAR 1.34 1.37 1.35 1.38 1.33 1.38 862,000 1,152,530 ACESITE HOTEL 1.45 1.51 1.51 1.51 1.51 1.51 1,000 1,510 0.062 0.063 0.068 0.068 0.062 0.062 149,020,000 9,618,490 BOULEVARD HLDG 5.52 5.54 5.58 5.58 5.41 5.54 707,600 3,890,718 DISCOVERY WORLD 10.28 10.86 10.28 10.28 10.28 10.28 6,800 69,904 GRAND PLAZA WATERFRONT 0.57 0.58 0.57 0.58 0.56 0.58 10,371,000 5,920,330 IPEOPLE 8.07 8.59 8.08 8.08 8.06 8.06 10,500 84,736 STI HLDG 0.39 0.395 0.39 0.4 0.39 0.395 1,620,000 633,200 BERJAYA 4.4 4.62 4.63 4.63 4.4 4.4 23,000 101,640 BLOOMBERRY 7.92 7.99 7.91 7.99 7.77 7.99 912,900 7,235,830 2.13 2.2 2.13 2.25 2.13 2.21 34,000 75,150 PACIFIC ONLINE LEISURE AND RES 1.89 1.93 1.89 2 1.85 1.93 612,000 1,174,760 MANILA JOCKEY 2.13 2.2 2.11 2.24 2.11 2.24 68,000 145,750 PH RESORTS GRP 2.56 2.58 2.54 2.59 2.51 2.58 1,613,000 4,126,940 PREMIUM LEISURE 0.455 0.46 0.465 0.47 0.45 0.455 20,340,000 9,267,550 ALLHOME 8.2 8.3 8.29 8.3 8.05 8.3 785,500 6,453,185 METRO RETAIL 1.34 1.35 1.37 1.37 1.34 1.35 559,000 754,420 37.65 37.8 37.95 38.25 37 37.8 1,835,800 69,424,080 PUREGOLD 54.55 55 54.2 55.45 54.05 54.55 879,960 47,949,359.50 ROBINSONS RTL 98.1 99.4 98.05 99.4 98.05 98.55 1,430 140,963.50 PHIL SEVEN CORP 1.35 1.36 1.37 1.39 1.33 1.36 1,950,000 2,664,320 SSI GROUP WILCON DEPOT 17.94 17.98 18 18.02 17.92 17.98 498,900 8,952,886 APC GROUP 0.425 0.43 0.43 0.435 0.425 0.43 1,430,000 613,050 EASYCALL 7.45 7.58 7.82 7.82 7.33 7.45 141,000 1,069,212 GOLDEN MV 436 450 432.2 450 432.2 450 290 128,898 4.9 5.05 5.05 5.05 5 5.05 21,600 108,580 IPM HLDG PAXYS 2.24 2.36 2.3 2.3 2.24 2.24 6,000 13,680 PRMIERE HORIZON 3 3.01 2.93 3.05 2.86 3 104,303,000 306,506,850 4.46 4.5 4.49 4.5 4.45 4.45 8,000 35,860 SBS PHIL CORP

-44,690,900 -59,735,640 -168,500 -23,997,556 -3,390 -57,965,194 -438,060 -6,906,320 -929,150 -13,650 -60 774,655 -865,363 109,760 -761,867 6,900 -59,690 650 564,792 59,750.00 -892,011 -15,400 -5,100 149,509 -369,470 4,175,875 -28,405,667 -128,147.50 -911,490 1,367,782 94,419 -465,760 -

MINING & OIL ATOK 7.62 7.7 7.97 7.97 7.5 7.7 380,700 2,929,807 73,964 APEX MINING 1.54 1.55 1.54 1.54 1.51 1.54 7,266,000 11,099,520 1,134,390 ATLAS MINING 6.94 6.96 7.25 7.25 6.69 6.94 1,053,900 7,266,968 195,943 BENGUET A 2.74 2.98 2.88 2.98 2.88 2.98 4,000 11,780 0.315 0.34 0.315 0.335 0.315 0.335 290,000 92,350 COAL ASIA HLDG CENTURY PEAK 2.75 2.85 2.88 2.88 2.85 2.85 10,000 28,590 -5,760 12 12.28 12.74 12.74 11.78 12.26 316,900 3,768,192 DIZON MINES FERRONICKEL 2.68 2.69 2.7 2.8 2.65 2.68 25,265,000 68,159,480 2,018,080 GEOGRACE 0.465 0.47 0.445 0.47 0.445 0.465 7,600,000 3,501,750 LEPANTO A 0.149 0.15 0.152 0.154 0.149 0.149 14,850,000 2,232,060 LEPANTO B 0.151 0.152 0.152 0.152 0.151 0.152 1,250,000 189,680 9,120 MANILA MINING A 0.01 0.011 0.01 0.011 0.01 0.011 50,800,000 516,500 0.0099 0.011 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01 43,900,000 439,000 -20,000 MANILA MINING B 1.44 1.45 1.47 1.5 1.4 1.44 9,293,000 13,439,070 -79,300 MARCVENTURES 2.49 2.5 2.6 2.61 2.37 2.49 1,155,000 2,840,250 10,120.00 NIHAO NICKEL ASIA 5.35 5.36 5.45 5.45 5.31 5.35 20,553,300 110,403,255 8,205,582 OMICO CORP 0.445 0.455 0.445 0.465 0.445 0.45 250,000 113,800 ORNTL PENINSULA 1.06 1.07 1.16 1.16 1.05 1.07 20,158,000 21,780,990 331,340 PX MINING 5.1 5.15 4.94 5.23 4.94 5.15 2,948,000 15,130,760 618,730.00 SEMIRARA MINING 12.9 12.92 12.98 12.98 12.66 12.92 961,100 12,371,074 -1,929,920 0.0096 0.0098 0.01 0.01 0.0096 0.0098 124,800,000 1,226,200 970 UNITED PARAGON 23.8 24.45 25.8 25.8 23.8 24.45 276,100 6,769,245 68,360 ACE ENEXOR 0.012 0.013 0.013 0.014 0.013 0.013 237,600,000 3,126,300 ORNTL PETROL A ORNTL PETROL B 0.013 0.014 0.013 0.013 0.013 0.013 4,300,000 55,900 PHILODRILL 0.013 0.014 0.014 0.014 0.013 0.014 258,300,000 3,374,200 PXP ENERGY 9.9 9.92 9.48 10.08 9.36 9.9 1,180,000 11,585,633 -629,375

PREFFERED HOUSE PREF B 100.1 101 100 101 100 101 10,550 1,065,300 AC PREF B1 523.5 529 523 523.5 523 523.5 15,430 8,075,105 ALCO PREF B 101.4 102 101.2 101.2 101.2 101.2 1,190 120,428 AC PREF B2R 515 517 515 515 515 515 4,260 2,193,900 2,039,400 CPG PREF A 101.8 103.4 103.6 103.6 103.6 103.6 80 8,288 101.4 102.1 101.1 101.4 101 101.4 9,660 976,815 258,570 DD PREF 106.5 108.9 106.5 106.5 106.5 106.5 200 21,300 FGEN PREF G GTCAP PREF A 1,010 1,020 1,030 1,030 1,020 1,020 205 209,150 GTCAP PREF B 1,029 1,035 1,035 1,035 1,035 1,035 30 31,050 MWIDE PREF 100.5 101 101 101 101 101 1,210 122,210 MWIDE PREF 2B 101 101.1 101.1 101.1 101 101 20,870 2,109,867 PNX PREF 4 1,006 1,007 1,006 1,007 1,006 1,007 110 110,670 PCOR PREF 2B 1,011 1,037 1,011 1,038 1,010 1,038 505 510,500 1,081 1,091 1,095 1,095 1,081 1,081 7,300 7,903,900 PCOR PREF 3A PCOR PREF 3B 1,125 1,140 1,124 1,124 1,124 1,124 1,000 1,124,000 SFI PREF 2 2.1 2.1 2.1 2 2 36,000 72,550 SMC PREF 2C 78.75 78.8 79 79 78.5 78.75 49,210 3,875,257.50 SMC PREF 2E 76.3 77.85 77.85 77.85 76.3 76.3 77,500 5,914,800 SMC PREF 2F 79.4 79.5 79 79.5 79 79.5 23,030 1,829,472 1,010,622 SMC PREF 2G 76.2 76.9 76.9 76.9 76.9 76.9 1,300 99,970 SMC PREF 2H 76.85 78.9 76.8 76.85 76.8 76.85 46,400 3,565,170 78.5 78.95 78.5 79 78.5 78.95 207,000 16,346,204.50 SMC PREF 2I SMC PREF 2J 76.25 77 76.25 76.25 76.25 76.25 24,700 1,883,375 SMC PREF 2K 76.3 76.85 76.25 76.5 76.2 76.2 2,800 213,860 53,375

PHIL. DEPOSITARY RECEIPTS ABS HLDG PDR 11.8 12.1 11.9 11.9 11.8 11.8 35,400 418,730 -107,390 GMA HLDG PDR 6.97 7.03 7.02 7.03 6.97 7.03 254,700 1,780,543 -1,726,580

WARRANTS LR WARRANT 2.08 2.1 2 2.4 1.91 2.08 25,623,000 56,687,900 36,690.00

SMALL & MEDIUM ENTERPRISES ALTUS PROP 24.35 24.5 25.3 27 23 24.5 1,234,900 30,478,605 -641,880 ITALPINAS 2.82 2.83 2.77 2.89 2.74 2.83 1,505,000 4,204,950 -8,640 KEPWEALTH 5.88 6 6 6 5.9 5.9 54,000 319,590 MAKATI FINANCE 2.72 2.8 2.8 2.81 2.65 2.72 125,000 340,700 -16,800 MERRYMART 6.48 6.49 6.54 6.63 6.41 6.49 8,437,600 54,746,886 719,840

EXHANGE TRADE FUNDS

FIRST METRO ETF 104 104.8 104.8 104.8 104 104 24,240 2,526,088 128,678

www.businessmirror.com.ph

NOW Telecom finally hurdles frequency woe

By Roderick L. Abad

M

Contributor

@rodrik_28

ORE than a decade after it sat on NOW Telecom Co.’s application for frequencies, the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) has been directed by the Anti-Red Tape Authority (Arta) to act on this matter immediately.

In an order issued March 1, Arta commanded the NTC to assign mobile frequencies, including 5G, to NOW Corp.’s telecom affiliate for its cellular mobile telephony service (CMTS) operation.

Arta instructed the NTC, through its commissioner Gamaliel Cordoba, to urgently comply with the order and submit proof of compliance within

three days from receipt of the order.

Under Section 10 of Republic Act No. 11032 or the Ease of Doing Business Act of 2018, if a government office or agency fails to approve or deny an applicant or request for issuance of license, permit, etc., within the prescribed processing time, then said application or request shall be deemed approved, provided that

all required documents have been submitted and required fees and charged paid.

As early as 2005, the NTC in an order found NOW Telecom to be legally, technically, and financially qualified; hence, it granted its application for a CMTS Provisional Authority (PA).

Despite this, however, it did not assign the latter’s needed frequencies.

Citing such provision of R A 11032, Arta said in its order that NOW Telecom’s application is "declared complete and is now deemed automatically approved by operation of law."

It added that NTC’s failure to act on this matter for 16 years is a violation of the law that aims to increase efficiency in public service by reducing processing time, eliminating red tape, simplifying requirements and procedures, and expediting both business and non-business transactions with the government.

Arta pointed out that NTC’s “obstinate refusal to assign frequencies

to NOW Tel, and its action, coupled with the lapse of an inordinate period of time despite the existence of all the requirements, is a clear violation of RA 11032, and a form of manifest partiality against NOW Tel.” Elated by such favorable ruling and award of frequencies from ARTA, NOW Telecom President and Chief Operations Officer Rene Rosales said the company—with these frequency assignments—now has the capacity to deliver vastly swift and better broadband services to Filipinos.

He said this makes the firm a formidable player in the telecom mobile industry.

NOW Telecom renewed in September 2020 its PA to install, operate, and maintain a nationwide mobile telecommunications system in the Philippines.

As a result of Arta’s order of automatic approval, it is assigned 220Mhz radio frequencies, including 5G frequencies, for mobile and fixed wireless by operation of law.

AirAsia backs uniform travel protocols A SIA’S largest budget carrier Air Asia has joined a number of leading aviation and tourism experts in calling for a standardized approach to travel protocols to help kickstart the international air travel revival.

The call comes in the face of the Covid-19 vaccine rollout across the globe and domestic air travel looks set to return to pre-Covid levels in the near future.

AirAsia Group President (Airlines) Bo Lingam said, “Covid-19 has left a severe impact on everyone and particularly on the travel and hospitality industries. In order to resume cross-border travel activity effectively and safely, a mutually agreed global framework approach is needed.

“Travel requirements in the region are currently complex and uncoordinated and travel bubbles are limited and underutilized. While we welcome the implementation of certain travel passes which are currently being developed or in testing phases, what is needed to stimulate international air travel again, is coordination among countries.

"The travel and tourism industry must work together with one consistent set of protocols and procedures for guests such as testing and vaccination requirements, coupled with a mutually agreed common digital health pass and with the expansion of travel bubbles to include the leisure sector.

“Resuming air travel is a collective effort. By working together we will be in a much better position to welcome the return of international flying in the not too distant future, delivering a much needed boost to the global economy.”

His comments follow a recent AirAsia review of Covid-19 procedures and protocols in regional countries such as the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, China and Australia.

The review confirms that existing travel requirements vary across Asean countries, making it challenging and difficult for travelers to understand and follow. The different travel protocols across regional countries also pose operational difficulties to airlines and travel operators. Without common travel protocols, manual verification of health and travel documents becomes more timeconsuming and is prone to error and fraud, especially with an increase in the use of fake health certifications.

“Furthermore, with 40 percent to 50 percent of the regional population expected to be vaccinated by the third quarter of 2021, travel policies should be updated regularly to reflect the current situation including the possible removal of quarantine requirements.

A good example is in the Philippines “where they have recently standardized all

AboitizPower deploys BESS to boost stability

A

BOITIZPOWER Corp. is backing the Philippine power grid with battery energy storage systems (BESS) to ensure stability through its ancillary services.

Emmanuel V. Rubio, the company’s president, said his group is deploying battery systems in various areas starting in Davao de Oro. The system can store energy electrochemically and can be connected to the grid, distribution system, or end-user facilities.

“Our foray into battery technology is a key component of our 10-year growth strategy, which ultimately aims to address the energy trilemma of energy security, energy equity, and environmental sustainability,” he said.

Through its partnership with Wartsila and Aboitiz Construction, AboitizPower has started the installation of its battery system in its Therma Marine Inc. (TMI) facility with a capacity of 49 megawatts (MW) in Davao de Oro. A first of its kind in the country, the battery storage facility aims to ensure the fast and sustained delivery of energy.

According to Rubio, this is one of the 12 projects with a total capacity of 248 MW for regulating and contingency reserves that AboitizPower is targeting to develop in the next decade.

It will serve as AboitizPower’s model for its

future battery investments, as well as hybrid renewable energy projects, he added.

“The battery technology presents a great opportunity for AboitizPower to address concerns on the reliability, affordability, and sustainability of energy supply. By ensuring the stability of our grid, we are responding to the needs of our customers and communities, as well as supporting economic growth,” he explained.

With the system peak demand forecast to reach 53,679 MW by 2040, Rubio believes that battery storage is necessary to ensure the grid’s stability to provide consumers with a reliable supply of electricity.

It will also require ancillary services that will sustain the transmission capacity and energy that are essential in maintaining the power quality, reliability, and security of the grid.

AboitizPower is the largest provider of ancillary services in the country, making it "wellpositioned to support its continued growth moving forward.”

Rubio said complementing its foray into the battery market is AboitizPower’s renewable energy (RE) strategy, which outlines the growth of its Cleanergy portfolio, both domestically and internationally. Lorenz S. Marasigan

the travel requirements in the country and removed the ones that are no longer relevant,” said Bo. The report also concluded that travel bubbles are currently implemented in the region are

mutual funds

mostly limited to business and essential travelers only. Business travelers are less likely to provide a much needed boost to the tourism industry as the majority of corporate meetings can now be conducted online. Recto L. Mercene March 4, 2021

NAV One Year Three Year Five Year Y-T-D per share Return* Return Stock Funds ALFM Growth Fund, Inc. -a 221.29 0.23% -8.32% -2% -2.61% ATRAM Alpha Opportunity Fund, Inc. -a 1.3111 15.9% -6.39% 3.28% -0.14% ATRAM Philippine Equity Opportunity Fund, Inc. -a 3.0416 -1.24% -12.53% -3.82% -2.92% Climbs Share Capital Equity Investment Fund Corp. -a 0.7737 1.36% -7.81% n.a.

-3.76% First Metro Consumer Fund on MSCI Phils. IMI, Inc. -a 0.6924 -7.69% n.a. n.a.

-6.63% First Metro Save and Learn Equity Fund,Inc. -a 4.7905 2.1% -6.32% -1.11% -3.05% First Metro Save and Learn Philippine Index Fund, Inc. -a,4 0.707 -4.34% -9.82% -6.26% -6.95% MBG Equity Investment Fund, Inc. -a 100.16 9.99% -5.19% n.a.

-1.75% PAMI Equity Index Fund, Inc. -a 45.5625 2.38% -6.5% -0.53% -2.74% Philam Strategic Growth Fund, Inc. -a 476.05 1.44% -6.44% -1.23% -2.64% Philequity Alpha One Fund, Inc. -a,d,5 1.0537 12.19% n.a. n.a.

-3.97% Philequity Dividend Yield Fund, Inc. -a 1.1359 0.39% -6.24% -0.33% -2.76% Philequity Fund, Inc. -a 33.8708 1.9% -5.97% 0.26% -2.59% Philequity MSCI Philippine Index Fund, Inc. -a 0.8844 -0.55% n.a. n.a.

-3.13% Philequity PSE Index Fund Inc. -a 4.6629 2.78% -5.94% 0.24% -2.68% Philippine Stock Index Fund Corp. -a 780.23 3.01% -5.82% 0.13% -2.67% Soldivo Strategic Growth Fund, Inc. -a 0.704 -1.76% -9.8% -3.71% -2.07% Sun Life Prosperity Philippine Equity Fund, Inc. -a 3.525 -3.04% -8.01% -1.4% -2.73% Sun Life Prosperity Philippine Stock Index Fund, Inc. -a 0.8927 2.7% -6.13% 0% -2.72% United Fund, Inc. -a 3.2446 0.39% -5.24% 0.88% -2.24% Exchange Traded Fund First Metro Phil. Equity Exchange Traded Fund, Inc. -a,c 104.7162 3.01% -5.62% 0.85% -2.64% Primarily invested in foreign currency securities ATRAM AsiaPlus Equity Fund, Inc. -b $1.2976 35.07% 5.44% 10.05% 7.87% Sun Life Prosperity World Voyager Fund, Inc. -a $1.7385 33.59% 10.26% n.a.

3.93% Balanced Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities ATRAM Dynamic Allocation Fund, Inc. -a 1.6582 11.46% -3.03% -0.6% -0.62% ATRAM Philippine Balanced Fund, Inc. -a 2.2328 9.57% -2.78% 0.69% -2.3% First Metro Save and Learn Balanced Fund Inc. -a 2.5659 4.14% -2.1% -0.29% -2.33% First Metro Save and Learn F.O.C.C.U.S. Dynamic Fund, Inc. -a,1 0.1928 -5.3% n.a. n.a. -2.92% NCM Mutual Fund of the Phils., Inc. -a 1.9498 4.01% -0.27% 1.64% -0.72% PAMI Horizon Fund, Inc. -a 3.6931 4.14% -1.45% 0.6% -2.51% Philam Fund, Inc. -a 16.5665 4.4% -1.37% 0.61% -2.19% Solidaritas Fund, Inc. -a 2.0621 3.87% -2.38% 0.6% -1.53% Sun Life of Canada Prosperity Balanced Fund, Inc. -a 3.5167 -0.56% -3.95% -0.46% -1.58% Sun Life Prosperity Achiever Fund 2028, Inc. -a,d 0.9873 3.84% n.a. n.a.

-3.45% Sun Life Prosperity Achiever Fund 2038, Inc. -a,d 0.9131 2.08% n.a. n.a.

-3.8% Sun Life Prosperity Achiever Fund 2048, Inc. -a,d 0.9003 1.84% n.a. n.a.

-3.52% Sun Life Prosperity Dynamic Fund, Inc. -a 0.8722 -0.25% -4.72% -1.04% -1.75% Primarily invested in foreign currency securities Cocolife Dollar Fund Builder, Inc. -a $0.03827 -2.27% 2.85% 1.51% -2.17% PAMI Asia Balanced Fund, Inc. -b $1.1559 16.29% 2.72% 6.23% 0.5% Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Advantage Fund, Inc. -a $4.6461 23.13% 7.75% 9.16% 2.95% Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Wellspring Fund, Inc. -a,3 $1.2057 10.08% 4% n.a.

0.3% Bond Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities ALFM Peso Bond Fund, Inc. -a 370.71 3.04% 3.2% 2.62% -0.1% ATRAM Corporate Bond Fund, Inc. -a 1.9053 -0.3% 0.51% 0.24% 0.26% Cocolife Fixed Income Fund, Inc. -a 3.218 2.37% 4.21% 4.62% 0.1% Ekklesia Mutual Fund Inc. -a 2.2547 0.51% 2.32% 1.79% -1.8% First Metro Save and Learn Fixed Income Fund,Inc. -a 2.4314 2.57% 3.23% 1.85% -0.89% Philam Bond Fund, Inc. -a 4.5082 2.15% 4.27% 2.19% -2.73% Philam Managed Income Fund, Inc. -a,6 1.3213 4.66% 4.4% 2.69% 0.01% Philequity Peso Bond Fund, Inc. -a 3.9668 4.28% 4.34% 2.55% -0.86% Soldivo Bond Fund, Inc. -a 1.0229 4.76% 4.06% 1.93% -1.83% Sun Life of Canada Prosperity Bond Fund, Inc. -a 3.1888 2.65% 4.66% 3% -0.54% Sun Life Prosperity GS Fund, Inc. -a 1.7414 1.82% 3.96% 2.37% -0.77% Primarily invested in foreign currency securities ALFM Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -a $483.14 2.3% 3.03% 2.61% -0.15% ALFM Euro Bond Fund, Inc. -a Є219.44 -0.67% 1.03% 1.23% 0.12% ATRAM Total Return Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -b $1.2088 -0.53% 2.65% 1.84% -5.59% First Metro Save and Learn Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -a $0.026 0.39% 1.72% 1.2% -2.26% PAMI Global Bond Fund, Inc -b $1.0644 -5.07% 0.54% -0.34% -2.59% Philam Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -a $2.4833 0.76% 4.58% 2.62% -2.06% Philequity Dollar Income Fund Inc. -a $0.0625681 2.78% 3.27% 2.29% 0.4% Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Abundance Fund, Inc. -a $3.1427 -3.99% 2.26% 1.41% -2.51% Money Market Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities ALFM Money Market Fund, Inc. -a 129.95 2.65% 3.3% 2.55% 0.11% First Metro Save and Learn Money Market Fund, Inc. -a 1.0491 1.61% n.a. n.a.

0.1% Sun Life Prosperity Money Market Fund, Inc. -a 1.2995 2.2% 2.93% 2.59% 0.22% Primarily invested in foreign currency securities Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Starter Fund, Inc. -a $1.0545 1.33% 1.78% n.a.

0.2% Feeder Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities Sun Life Prosperity World Equity Index Feeder Fund, Inc. -a,d,7 1.1822 n.a. n.a. n.a. 4.66% Primarily invested in foreign currency securities ALFM Global Multi-Asset Income Fund Inc. -b,d,2 $0.98 1.03% n.a. n.a.

0%

a - NAVPS as of the previous banking day. b - NAVPS as of two banking days ago. c - Listed in the PSE. d - in Net Asset Value per Unit (NAVPU).

1 - Launch date is September 28, 2019. 2 - Launch date is November 15, 2019. 3 - Adjusted due to stock dividend issuance last October 9, 2019.

4 - Renaming was approved by the SEC last October 12, 2018 (formerly, One Wealthy Nation Fund, Inc.). 5 - Launch date is December 09, 2019.

6 - Re-classified into a Bond Fund starting February 21, 2020 (Formerly a Money Market Fund). 7 - Launch date is July 6, 2020.

"While we endeavor to keep the information accurate, the Philippine Investment Funds Association (PIFA) and its members make no warranties as to the correctness of the newspaper’s publication and assume no liability or responsibility for any error or omissions. You may visit http://www. pifa.com.ph to see the latest NAVPS/NAVPU."

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BIR warms up to Russian tax digitization proposal

T

HE Department of Finance (DOF) has directed the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to pursue its discussions with the Russian government to improve tax administration in the Philippines.

Manila and Moscow tax officials will conduct a second round of talks particularly in efforts to help the Philippine digitalize tax administration. “[Top officials of the Federal Tax Service (FTS) of Russia] will gladly support us and help us on our automation or digitalization programs,” Internal Revenue Deputy Commissioner Arnel SD. Guballa said.

Officials of the BIR and the FTS last met online in January to discuss best practices that could be applied in the Philippines to further improve tax administration and compliance.

BIR officials also raised with FTS Deputy Commissioner Dmitry Volvach the possibility of a bilateral cooperation agreement between both tax authorities.

The DOF requested then outgoing Russian Ambassador Igor Khovaev in February last year for assistance in helping the BIR set up a tax data capture program for its value-added tax collection effort that is similar to Russia’s highly efficient system.

At that time, Ambassador Khovaev said that Russia has shared its VAT collection technology with other countries and would assist the BIR in its effort to improve its system.

One-stop shop

IN a separate statement, the BIR said its launch of the first phase of its Central Business Portal (CBP) will make it easier to register a business in the Philippines.

The CBP is an online system which offers a single site/one-stop shop for all business-related information and transactions, such as registering a corporation, registering business and securing business permits/certificates, licenses from said government

agencies.

Under Phase 1, the CBP shall be available to the domestic corporations, particularly one-person corporations, corporations with two to four incorporators; regular corporations whose incorporators are juridical entities and/ or the capital structure is not covered by the 25 percent-25 percent rule.

Commissioner Caesar R. Dulay expressed his optimism that with the recently-launched online registration platform, more taxpayers will find it easier and faster to comply with registration requirements of the government.

“It will put delays, bureaucratic gridlocks and inefficiencies a thing of the past. It will likewise put more taxpayers into the tax net thereby strengthening revenue collection efforts and eventually pump more lifeblood into the veins of government operations,” the Commissioner said.

The BIR-related features of the CBP are online generation/issuance of Taxpayer Identification Number of new corporations; identification of the national internal revenue taxes which the new corporations will be liable to; online payment of the annual registration fee (ARF) of P500 and loose Documentary Stamp Tax (DST) of thirty pesos (P30); and generation of BIR Electronic Certificate of Registration (COR).

BIR said the electronic COR bears a Quick Response Code that serves as a security feature to prove authenticity of the COR. New corporations registering through CBP are likewise given an option to pay ARF and loose DST manually. However, when they choose this option, they shall complete its business registration at the respective Revenue District Office by submitting the printed CBP-generated documents, and other documentary requirements prescribed by the BIR in its Revenue Memorandum Circular 15-2021 issued on January 27, 2021. Cai U. Ordinario

The road to ruin in strategic planning

S

Friday, March 5, 2021 B3

Revenue collected from POGOs to contract by 45.37% this year

T

By Cai U. Ordinario

@caiordinario

HE national government expects collections from offshore gaming businesses operating in the Philippines could contract by over 45 percent this year, according to the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR).

In a presentation at the Senate Committee on Ways and Means on Thursday, BIR Deputy Commissioner Arnel SD. Guballa said the projection is based on the January 2021 collection data.

Guballa said revenue collections from Philippine Offshore Gaming

Operators (Pogos) only reached P327.2 million in January 2021, a 68.63-percent contraction or a decrease of P715.9 million from the P1.43 billion posted in the same period last year.

“The amount is based on the January actual collections of P327.2

million multiplied by 12 months,” Guballa said in a presentation.

The BIR official explained that with this computation, total POGO tax collections could only reach P3.92 billion or 45.37-percent lower than the total collections obtained from these businesses last year.

Earlier, the BIR reported that POGO tax collections reached P7.18 billion in 2020 amid the impact of lockdown measures to contain the Covid-19 pandemic.

BIR said in a statement its collections from Pogos continued to increase from P2.36 billion in 2018.

It grew by 172.43 percent in 2019 and by 11.71 percent in 2020, the statement added.

In May last year, the government allowed some Pogos to operate while several parts of the country

remained under strict lockdown.

POGOs deemed not tax-compliant were prohibited from resuming operations.

Executives behind Pogos have insisted they are not liable to pay the 5-percent franchise tax since they are an offshore business. They gained a solid footing from a temporary restraining order (TRO) issued by the Supreme Court early this month.

The TRO effectively stopped the government from imposing the 5-percent franchise tax on the gross bets from gaming operations of Pogos as mandated under Republic Act 11494.

The high court said, in striking down the franchise tax, that it was simply a “rider” in Republic Act 11494, or the Bayanihan 2, and thus, illegal.

Cebu Pacific operator eyes P16B in recapitalization to fund reboot

C

EBU Air Inc., operator of Cebu Pacific, may not see operations of its airline business returning to pre-pandemic levels this year but now prepares for another round of fund-raising activities that may provide it with another P16 billion in fresh capital for its expected reopening of the market.

Trina E. Asuncion, the company’s director for investor relations, financial planning and analytics, said the group is tapping the debt market through syndicated loans with commercial banks. The plan is to raise between P12.5 billion and P16 billion in fresh capital.

Asuncion said commercial banks

2. Wrong People: OMETIMES there Involving the wrong is a need to highparticipants in the light the adverse process without the side of a good thing to stress its essence and Association World capability, capacity or interest in its success. importance. Such is the Octavio Peralta 3. Wrong Roles: case for good old strateFailing to clearly degic planning. fine the roles and responsibilities of Strategic planning became well participants. known in business enterprises in the 1960s and remains a salient aspect of 4. Wrong Process: Implementing a strategic management. It is executed strategic process that creates mistrust by a number of participants and uses or fails to properly inform strategic research sources in their analysis of decisions. the organization and its relationship 5. Wrong Help: Engaging external to the environment in which it comsupport without the proper competenpetes. cies or cultural alignment.

A modern strategic planning pro6. Wrong Outcomes: Focusing on cess seeks to incorporate diverse voices tactical and not strategic outcomes. into a data-driven, consensus strategic 7. Wrong Implementation: Failing plan. A good strategic plan helps the to link the new strategic plan effecorganization effectively focus on crititively to the ongoing operations of the cal opportunities, prioritize resources association. and focus staff and leadership efforts Obviously, the reverse of these to successfully achieve mission-orient“wrongs” are the following “rights:” ed outcomes. right reasons; right people; clear roles; My organization, the Philippine inclusive and informed process; help as Council of Associations and Associaneeded; clear goals; and, clear stratetion Executives (PCAAE), recently congies. ducted a webinar for the association The pandemic has brought about community here on “Essentials of Strachanges in the strategic plans of many tegic Planning” featuring Dean West, associations which necessitate a reflecpresident and founder of the US-based tion, redirection, and refresh. By deAssociation Laboratory Inc. veloping a strategic planning process Below are excerpts from AL’s “Esthat addresses the above-cited potensentials of Strategic Planning-A Mantial challenges, an association is more agement Guide” as well as notes I took likely to create an actionable strateduring the webinar: gic plan that can be effectively impleAL developed the comprehensive mented. guide based on its consultants’ 20 years of strategic planning research The column contributor, Octavio ‘Bobby’ Peralta, is and facilitation experience. I will foconcurrently the secretary-general of the Association of cus on what Dean cited as the “road Development Financing Institutions in Asia and the Pacific, to ruin” in strategic planning, i.e., the Founder & CEO of the Philippine Council of Associations and seven pitfalls the association staff and Association Executives and President of the Asia-Pacific volunteer leaders face in the conduct Federation of Association Organizations. The purpose of and implementation of their strategic PCAAE—the “association of associations”—is to advance plan. These are as follows: the association management profession and to make as1. Wrong Reasons: Initiating the sociations well-governed and sustainable. PCAAE enjoys strategic planning for reasons other the support of Adfiap, the Tourism Promotions Board, than the determining the long-term and the Philippine International Convention Center. Egoals and strategies of the association. mail: obp@adfiap.org

have expressed their support for this activity, as Cebu Pacific’s net debt to equity ratio is “quite low.”

She added that the company will “hopefully” close this within the quarter.

Asuncion noted this is part of the company’s recapitalization efforts, which also includes its P12.5-billion stock rights offering.

These, she said, will provide the company “cash for the runway” as it focuses on implementing longterm strategies.

Candice Iyog, a vice president at the company, noted that these efforts will help the company gear up for its expected revitalization of

the market.

She said her group is now operating at 23 percent of its pre-Covid network, flying to 32 local destinations and five international cities. This is a jump from last year’s 16-percent network operations.

Iyog noted that her group may not see its operations returning to prepandemic levels this year.

“We won’t see recovery to preCovid levels in 2021. But we do want to be agile enough to scale up operations should the lifting of these restrictions start to show people travel again. We want to be able to pivot quickly and address the demand,” she said.

She noted that the earliest possible time the airline will return to normal operations may be in 2022.

“But we don’t know for sure yet.

What we can see, though, is we are seeing more people searching for flights. You will see it in terms of how fast we are now growing the network,” she said.

Currently, only half of Cebu Pacific’s 73 planes are flying. The other half are parked in Australia.

Cebu Air Inc. reported an operating loss of P13.72 billion in the first nine months of 2020, a 241.7-percent nosedive from the P9.69-billion operating income in the same period of 2019. Lorenz S. Marasigan

Italian mafia targets Europe’s recovery fund

C

RIMINAL enterprises— like their legitimate counterparts—have suffered during the pandemic-induced economic crisis. But the Italian mafia has already laid the foundation for a massive payday.

Last year, when countries were seized by lockdowns, the mafia started infiltrating cash-starved companies in a bid to siphon money from the European Union’s recovery fund and the 1.8 trillion euros ($2.2 trillion) that will, in part, start flowing to struggling firms later this year, according to Maurizio Vallone, Italy’s top investigator on organized crime.

Criminal groups including the N’drangheta in the southern Calabria region and Cosa Nostra in Sicily have sought to gain footholds in lawful businesses that will be first in line to get EU aid, such as those in environmental and digital sectors, said Vallone of the Antimafia Investigative Directorate, which groups investigators from the main po-

lice forces.

“The mafia has been choosing the companies that are bestplaced to take part in recovery fund tenders, especially in the health and infrastructure sectors where a great deal of money will be spent,” Vallone told Bloomberg at his Rome office on Tuesday. “It will try to take everything. We have to make sure they don’t get even one euro.”

Covid impact to Mafia

AND Italy is a prime target for criminals since it’s poised to be the largest recipient of EU grant money.

The new government of Prime Minister Mario Draghi is drafting a spending plan for its 209 billion-euro share of the EU funds as it struggles to shake off the worst recession since World War II. Italian firms are particularly vulnerable since a scheme for state-guaranteed bank loans has been too complex and limited to be effective, said Vallone.

As a result, companies that have shaky credit-worthiness have benefited little from state help, he said.

Mafia gangs have seized on the opportunity, with regional and national lockdowns, to reach out to small and medium-sized companies desperate for liquidity in an economy that contracted 8.9 percent last year.

Mafiosi typically seek to muscle in on a firm’s share capital, fund struggling businesses through usury, or exploit them through a hidden partner, Vallone said. The number of suspicious

financial operations reported by the Bank of Italy increased by 7 percent last year to 113,000.

“That makes us strongly suspect that there is organized crime interest,” he said.

The European Anti-Fraud Office, called OLAF, will screen spending plans by member states to ensure they meet control and anti-fraud requirements, and will in the future carry out investigations of its own, according to a spokeswoman. The organization will also team up with national authorities and partners including Europol. Bloomberg News

B4

Friday, March 5, 2021 • Editor: Gerard S. Ramos

Relationships BusinessMirror

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Today’s Horoscope

❶ Megaworld

Chief Strategy Officer Kevin Tan

By Eugenia Last

❷ Covid-19 has

changed the face of the retail landscape.

z

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Kevin Connolly, 47; Matt Lucas, 47; Eva Mendes, 47; Dean Stockwell, 85.

Happy Birthday: Put your energy to good use this year. Idle time will lead to poor decisions. Make use of your attributes, and keep your emotions under control.

Keep the peace when dealing with colleagues, relatives and friends. Show discipline, honor and fair play in all you pursue. Work alone, learn all you can and bring about a positive change. Your numbers are 8, 15, 22, 26, 30, 37, 46.

a

❶

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Look at an investment you are considering. A joint venture will not turn out to be what you expected— question who is responsible for what before you get involved in something risky. HHHHH

❷

Megaworld augments digital efforts to support Covid-hit retail partners

F

By Pauline Joy M. Gutierrez

EW could have predicted what 2020 had in store. The Covid-19 pandemic not only forced market shutdowns across the country, but it also changed consumer expectations toward retailers, especially in making shopping safer and more accessible.

In a bid to leverage digital solutions to keep its partners’ businesses afloat, property giant Megaworld Corp. is taking on a more proactive, progressive approach to digitizing the retail experience through efforts that include partnerships with contactless payment providers, such as GCash, PayMaya, and Lyka; starting Viber communities to give inventory updates to customers; and creating a virtual shopping assistant (Megan) as well as a one-stop shop delivery app (Pick A Roo).

“Running multiple platforms and businesses is not easy. It takes a lot of time, it takes a lot of effort, it takes a lot of people, and it costs a lot of money. And while others are still reeling from this pandemic, our group is moving very, very fast,” shared Megaworld Chief Strategy Officer Kevin Tan in a recent virtual briefing attended by members of the media.

According to Tan, safety has taken on a renewed sense of priority among buyers, and this is why they introduced a centralized contact tracing system which they are now utilizing in all of their commercial malls and townships.

“During the lockdown, health declarations [were required] every time you enter the stores. We saw that as

very cumbersome so we created Safety on Track, where you fill it out once and all you do is scan [a QR code] and check in on the stores, and that already fulfills the contact-tracing requirements of the government,” he said.

Tan also pointed to recent reports which state that consumers are likely to keep the behaviors they’ve had to adopt amid stay-at-home set-up even after the pandemic subsides, particularly online shopping.

Pick A Roo, Megaworld’s own food and shopping aggregator, provides merchants with an online platform to help them sell their products and tap into the growing e-commerce market. As of writing, its credit-card penetration at 75 percent is the highest among all delivery apps in the country.

Pick A Roo was first launched in August last year under Agile Digital Ventures, the property giant’s wholly owned subsidiary that supports tech start-ups engaged in the country’s food, retail and hospitality industries.

“Obviously at the time, there was no big shift yet to online—and then the pandemic came,” said Tan. “Right now, we have 500 brands from over 30 different categories like food, groceries, hardware, medicine, skin care, toys, gadgets, pet care, cellphones, baby care... you name it, we have it and we have about 1,200 branches around Metro Manila, which allows us to support people that continue to have physical stores that employ people,” Tan added, emphasizing that the shift toward digital goes hand-in-hand with supporting their tenants’ brick-andmortar operations.

“One of the biggest advantages [we] have right now is we have a lot of alfresco areas. We’re going to be coming up with some new designs all throughout the entire summer and [this] will really enhance our townships,” he added.

In addition, Megaworld has accommodated small businesses, farmers and fisherfolk by converting some of its open spaces and activity areas into farmers markets, and allowed start-up brands and retailers to have food trucks and pop-up stores with temporary rent reprieve.

“All in all, we still ended on a relatively high occupancy rate and most major retailers are still with Megaworld. In fact, in the midst of the pandemic, we’ve even had a good number of openings, and we’re still anticipating quite a number of openings this year which is a testament to our relationships with our retail partners,” Tan said.

“The lifeblood of our business is our retail partners. We have put their welfare way ahead of our pursuit of profit as we know that their survival will not only be beneficial for us, but also for their employees and their families especially during these trying times,” he added.

Since March 2020, Megaworld has waived over P2.5 billion in rental fees and extended rental concessions to its retail partners, some of which are still being implemented until now. Furthermore, it provided transportation among employees at the height of the lockdowns.

“We went the extra mile. We provided rapid testing from the start and since we manage townships, we actually provided lodging and boarding for our retail partners’ employees to ensure some business continuity,” Tan said. n

c

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): An open mind will lead to helpful information when in a competitive situation. Reveal little about yourself, and you will maintain the upper hand when it comes to taking advantage of an opportunity. Intelligence will conquer emotional manipulation. HHH

d

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Keep your head screwed on straight when it comes to affairs of the heart. Mixing business with pleasure will lead to trouble if you share personal information with someone at work. HHH

e

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Approach change with caution. Consider who will benefit most before you commit to anything. Uncertainty is a good enough reason to take a stance and reject a proposition. Invest more time and effort in something that will help you get ahead. HHHHH

f

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Let your intuition guide you, and you will avoid being taken advantage of by someone with ulterior motives. Put greater emphasis on a healthier lifestyle and keeping up with the trends. HH

g

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Put more energy into personal improvement and financial gain. Refuse to let someone railroad you into something that will create problems with a friend, colleague or relative. Make it your priority to achieve economic, mental and physical stability. HHHH

h

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): A change will be refreshing. Look for safe forms of entertainment that will take your mind off stressful situations. Problems with someone close to you will warrant thought and adjustments to protect your reputation. Offer peace over chaos. HHH

i

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Put more trust in you and what you are capable of doing, and less in those who talk big and offer little. An energetic approach to work, educational pursuits and getting along with others will pay off. HHH

Keeping it fun...and safe It’s time to join a sweat-dripping, fat-burning ride as boutique indoor cycling studio Ride Revolution at Shangri-La Plaza (www.facebook.com/ shangrilaplazaofficial) brings their popular classes safely out in the open air with Ride Outside. It takes place at the Shang’s Sky Garden located at Level 6.

This initiative allows members of the Ride Revolution in-studio and virtual communities to share the energy and work out along with other fitness enthusiasts in a safe, socially distanced outdoor setup.

Ride Outside continues to put community health and well-being as its main priority with the Ride Revolution Gold Standards of Safety. Following directives set by the Philippine government, Ride Revolution (www.riderevolution.ph) has updated its safety measures and guidelines to keep the riders, instructors, and staff safe at all times.

It has implemented a stringent cleaning process, which includes thorough disinfection of all high touch surface areas and fitness equipment used in

b

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): You’ll have some innovative ideas that can quickly spin out of control if you let your emotions intervene. Stick to tried-and-true methods, and eliminate pie-in-the-sky plans that may leave you with the brunt of the responsibilities. HHH

class. All bikes, weights and shoes in the venue will be thoroughly disinfected before and after every class. Ride Revolution has allocated 45 to 60 minutes of cleaning using nontoxic disinfectant sprays after each ride.

Bikes are spaced at least two meters apart in compliance with social distancing measures. Social distancing reminders such as floor markings and signages will also be placed within the venue to guide cyclists.

Prior to a class, riders will be asked to register their attendance via a contactless check-in procedure.

A temperature check will be conducted upon entry.

Those with temperature 37.5 degrees Celsius and up will not be allowed to join the class. Before admission, riders must also fill out a health declaration form via QR code. Late entries and re-entries will not be accommodated.

Sanitizing wipes and alcohol will also be provided to disinfect the hands or further sanitize the equipment. A strict policy on mask-wearing in all

j

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Embrace a pastime that boosts your confidence and energy.

Physical fitness will play a role in the way you view life, love and future happiness. Don’t let what doesn’t work bother you; replace a negative attitude with a positive outlook. HHH

k

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Take time out to do something you enjoy. Don’t make changes to accommodate someone who doesn’t do the same for you. Concentrate on mental and physical stimulation that will result in intelligence and good health. HHHH

l

areas before, during, and after the ride will also be implemented. Riders must also place their belongings and used equipment inside a designated bin or basket beside their bike. Interested cyclists who book one seat can bring a friend for free.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Think twice before you do something that will cause an uproar. Don’t start something you cannot finish. Bide your time, let tempers cool down and consider the best way to maintain a positive outcome.

Make peace and love priorities. HH Birthday Baby: You are productive, impulsive and hardworking.

You are proactive and dynamic.

‘double headers’ by andrew j. ries The Universal Crossword/Edited by David Steinberg

ACROSS 1 Peach stone 4 Container for gratuities 10 Dough dispensers 14 Period of time 15 Single-celled organism 16 ___ row (stretch in many a college town) 17 Scoring partner?

19 Piece in a mosaic 20 Looking down on 21 They become wind instruments when “f” is added 23 In the manner of 24 Alaskan city on the Bering Sea 25 The ___ Moines Register 26 Faith with Five Pillars 28 Got going 30 “My deepest apologies” 32 Khaki color 33 Use a needle and thread 34 Wet dirt 35 Libertarians’ 2020 presidential candidate 38 Small island

39 Skin pic 40 Long period of time 41 1992 Stacey Dash rom-com featuring a credit card con 43 Antagonist in Coco 47 Suffuse 48 E.R. employees 49 Real comedian 50 Jacuzzi product 51 Come to a point 54 Stave off 55 Trivia host’s clue 57 Like a straight shooter 59 Gucci of fashion fame 60 The Answer Is... memoirist Alex 61 Word paired with “neither” 62 Roach or rat 63 Jousting horses 64 Donkey DOWN 1 Nuts in some pies 2 Sci-fi collection first published in 1950 3 Site of a University of Washington satellite campus

4 Far from feral 5 Unruly kid 6 Combined, as assets 7 Nativity scene figure 8 Illegally assist 9 Doneness option for a burger 10 Toward the stern 11 Testing phase 12 Common duck 13 Hot and humid 18 News anchor’s hand-off line 22 Khloe, to Kim, informally 25 Signify 27 “What gall!”

29 ___ Mahal 30 “Get it?”

31 Deeds list them 33 Drill instructor’s rank, often: Abbr.

35 Groups that improvise songs 36 Bit of hope, metaphorically 37 Daughter’s sibling, perhaps 38 Put together, like an anthology 41 Unfortunate occurrence 42 Need for catching butterflies 43 Coat, as with chocolate

4 Raw or burnt color 4 45 Statues’ midsections 46 Frolicking marine mammals 48 Zellweger with two Oscars 52 Tunneling insects 53 Strong wine 54 Inquires 56 Day care enrollee 58 Benedict’s nickname, maybe Solution to Tuesday’s puzzle:

Show BusinessMirror

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Editor: Gerard S. Ramos

• Friday, March 5, 2021

B5

Cinema Rehiyon 13 goes global Lady Gaga’s dog walker speaks out after Hollywood shooting

W

HEN the 12th Cinema Rehiyon ended last February 2020 in Naga City, the news of the Covid-19 virus in Europe was already trickling in. No one, however, could make sense of it yet. The words “pandemic” and “lockdown” were not in currency yet.

The question then was: Which region would host the next gathering?

The pandemic answered that question: no region would be able to host a Cinema Rehiyon in the pandemic. No face-to-face engagement was ever possible—and permissible.

Something happened, too: There should be a Cinema Rehiyon, but in a new form.

Under the current conditions, Cinema Rehiyon redefines itself. It will be an online edition. More than the technologies that negate geographies and physical boundaries, the online edition is expected to give the festival a new character. There are limitations, of course, but there are also infinite possibilities.

For 12 years, Cinema Rehiyon was defined by Manila and curated by a centric way of assessing cinema. The cinemas from the regions were, in a sense, imprisoned by the lands that should have been a starting point for freeing all kinds of arts from that place. This was the irony: where the origin of cinemas should have been defined by their sources, the same origin delimited the spaces that could have formed the communities of filmmakers.

One of the nagging problems with Cinema Rehiyon was how the cinema committees and regional festival committees could not come up with a definition of regional cinema.

Interestingly, the same cinema committee with different members responded appropriately to the limitations of health protocols by expanding the meaning of the region and articulating other spaces that correspond to the exquisite spacing of the peripheries.

Cinema Rehiyon 13 will still be about films from the region. But it is a region now redefined according to the spaces created by online engagement. The film and the filmmakers have become mobile. There will be filmmakers who have made their names in their respective regional committees, and they may still be participants even as they are locked down somewhere, outside their regions.

Physical spaces have become negligible.

What then will be a crucial element that will define regional cinema? It is the regional languages that will separate filmmakers from other filmmakers. Not the land, not the actors, not the production unit, not the regional organizations or the so-called local film

festivals but the languages.

The regional cinema is now not only redefined but undergoes a radical operational definition. Cinema Rehiyon goes global. This means the festival director can now accept entries from other countries so long as the entrants are coming from the regional spaces of those international sites.

Cinema Rehiyon will now connect to regional film festivals, which are smaller and less commercial, in other countries. This underscores one fact—that regional cinemas from here or abroad is not about a limited space but an assertion of identities.

A new addition to the program of Cinema Rehiyon is the inclusion of films that deal with women and LGBTQIA+. Focusing on what have been marginalized or served as token categories in previous regional festivals, this new section is included to celebrate the margin and call our attention to the unconscious inattention to what really are major socio-cultural and politico-ecological concerns.

Let it be noted, too, that Cinema Rehiyon as a festival has its wellspring in the peripheries, which are the same characteristics shared by films that speak for women and LGBTQUIA+. If there are overlaps in these two categories, film scholars, curators and cineastes should see them as supporting the ideology that outside the so-called center are more communities. From these numerous communities of filmmakers and artists grow themes that are tackled differently because they simply come from sites that are different and differing.

There will be more than a hundred short and feature films during the run of the festival, which began with the kick-off last February 28. Outside of the screenings of more than a hundred short and feature films, the film festival will have Masterclasses and webinars focusing on the issues and concerns with regard to women, LGBTQIA+, and cinema in the pandemic.

Something one for the books is the technological aspect of how the 13th edition of Cinema Rehiyon has been organized: the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, whose office is in Intramuros, Manila, funds the whole event through the National Committee on Cinema, whose members are scattered all throughout the country.

Its present chairman, Dr. Rolando Tolentino, is in Quezon City. It was the decision of this committee to identify a management group in place of the traditional host. This group facilitating, coordinating and organizing the numerous events has been given to the Project Support Team, which is based in the Negros Museum in Bacolod and headed by Tanya Lopez. The two programmers, Jaja Arumpac and Elvert Bañares, are from Mindanao and Visayas, respectively, with Jaja residing now in Quezon City and Elvert moving from Manila to Panay and back again. This writer is the festival director, based in Bicol, struggling every now and then with the brownouts.

And we are not even talking about our resource speakers and moderators who are in other countries. n

LOS ANGELES—Lady Gaga’s dog walker, who was shot last week during a robbery in Hollywood when two of the singer’s French bulldogs were stolen, described the violence and his recovery “from a very close call with death” in social-media posts on Monday. Ryan Fischer’s posts included pictures taken from his hospital bed, where he says “[a] lot of healing still needs to happen” but he looks forward to reuniting with the dogs.

Fischer was shot once as he walked three of Lady Gaga’s dogs on Wednesday night on a street just off the famed Sunset Boulevard. Video captured by the doorbell camera of a nearby home captured Fischer’s screams of “Oh my God! I’ve been shot!” and “Help me!” and “I’m bleeding out from my chest!”

Police are seeking two men in the attack and said on Monday they are still investigating.

The two dogs, named Koji and Gustav, were returned unharmed Friday evening when a woman showed up at a Los Angeles police station with them.

Detectives do not believe she was involved in the robbery or shooting, and did not know if she would receive the $500,000 reward Lady Gaga had offered for the dogs’ return. The singer is currently in Rome to film a movie.

Fischer thanked Lady Gaga for her support during the ordeal, writing “your babies are back and the family is whole...we did it!” in Instagram posts. A third dog, named Asia, escaped the assailants and lies down next to Fischer “while a car sped away and blood poured from my gun shot [sic] wound,” he wrote.

The doorbell video shows a white sedan pulling up and two men jumping out. They struggled with the dog walker before one pulled a gun and fired a single shot before fleeing with two of the dogs. AP

THE legendary Dolly Parton

Entertainment giants join forces for Alden-Bea pairing THREE of the country’s film production giants—Viva Films, GMA Pictures, and APT Entertainment— seal their partnership to coproduce the Philippine adaptation of the Japanese drama Pure Soul, from which the hit Korean movie A Moment to Remember was also adapted. The contract-signing ceremony was held on March 2.

For the first time ever, moviegoers will witness the much-awaited pairing of two of the country’s biggest stars: Alden Richards and Bea Alonzo.

Present during the contractsigning from Viva Communications Inc. were president and COO Vincent del Rosario, Viva Artists Agency President Veronique del RosarioCorpus, and senior vice president for content and production Valerie del Rosario. Representing GMA were GMA Films Inc. president and programming consultant to the chairman and CEO Atty. Annette Gozon-Valdes, first vice president for program management Jose Mari Abacan, vice president for corporate affairs and communications Angel Javier Cruz, and senior assistant vice president for alternative productions Gigi Santiago-Lara.

And for APT Entertainment Inc., in attendance were CEO and president Mike Tuviera, COO and CFO Jojo Oconer, and vice president for production operation Camille Montano.

BEA ALONZO and Alden Richards

Also present during the contract signing was Bea’s manager Shirley Kuan.

Vincent del Rosario teased audiences on what to look forward to in the reimagining of the story that captivated hearts in Korea and Japan: “’Yung script largely based sa Japanese na series pero ’yung nuances ng culture ng Pinoy, [sinalin] maigi ng writer para mas ma-appreciate ng local moviegoers.”

Meanwhile, Gozon-Valdes expressed her excitement in bringing the project to life: “Finally, this is now a reality, we’re very very excited. Napaka-

ganda kasi ng pelikula na ito, lalo na we’re having both Alden and Bea in it. We feel that this project is perfect for the both of them. Sa galing nilang umarte, kayang-kaya nila itong project na ito. We are putting our own take on it kasi nga siyempre Philippine adaptation, gusto natin may ibang ipakita sa audience para talagang uniquely Filipino adaptation ito.”

Tuviera also shared his enthusiasm to begin producing the highlyanticipated film: “Napaka-laking chance to be a part of a project like this. I’m sure the people want to see Alden and Bea together. Gusto talaga namin

maramdaman ng tao ’yung pagka-big screen niya, ’yung concept ng kwento, ’yung characters, importante sa amin na ma-experience ng tao ’yun in its full glory talaga in a theater. We’re making the film as a theatrical experience.”

The film follows the journey of a young couple whose relationship will be put to the test when the woman is diagnosed with early onset of Alzheimer’s disease. It is a story that will test how much love can withstand and show how it can triumph in the midst of pain, fear, denial and acceptance.

Entrusted with such a meaningful role, Alden feels grateful to once again showcase his versatility on the big screen: “It’s my first remake, and there will always be comparison. What we wanted as actors is to do our own take on how we understood the role. Ang ganda ng material, sobra. Kung babalik na ’yung cinemas, it’s really for theaters.

Mas dama mo ’yung istorya.”

Meanwhile, Bea shared: “I’m excited na makakapag-trabaho na kami this time.

We’re very happy na nag-inject sila ng Filipino culture doon sa script. We are working around the parameters of what Korea wants us to do, of course to also maintain and respect the original form of the movie. It’s going to be a little different from the original title but we will make sure that it’s going to be a good one. It’s going to be extra challenging and also very inspiring.”

‘Vaccine, vaccine’: Dolly sings ‘Jolene’ rewrite before shot NASHVILLE, Tennessee—Dolly Parton has written hundreds of songs over her decades-long career and it turns out her tune “Jolene” is the just right one for getting her Covid-19 vaccine.

“I even changed one of my songs to fit the occasion.

It goes, ‘Vaccine, vaccine, vaccine, vaccine, I’m begging of you please don’t hesitate,’” the actor, singer and humanitarian sang in a social-media post on Tuesday, just before receiving her shot.

The Grammy-winning legend turned 75 this year. In 2020, she donated $1 million to Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee, for coronavirus research.

Parton had earlier told The Associated Press that she was going to wait until it became more widely available because she didn’t want to look like she was jumping the line.

Parton wore a purple shirt with shoulder cutouts just for the occasion and a matching purple mask.

She put on a typical show, laughing, cracking jokes with the doctor and making sure her hair was looking good.

“That didn’t hurt. Just stung a little bit,” she said afterward. Then she smiled at the camera saying, “I did it! I did it!” AP

B6 Friday, March 5, 2021

Continue to #staysafestayhappy with the Hotel 101 group

Bantay Bata 163 marks 24th year with ‘Bawat Isa ay Bata’ music video

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BS-CBN Foundation’s Bantay Bata 163 celebrated 24 years of protecting and loving the Filipino child with a music video dedicated to its beneficiaries, donors, partners, and founder, Gina Lopez.

Featuring the song “Bawat Isa ay Bata,” performed by international sensation TNT Boys composed of Mackie Empuerto, Keifer Sanchez, and Francis Concepcion, the video shows how Bantay Bata 163 has evolved through the years as it strives to champion the welfare of the children.

Founded by the late Gina Lopez, the former chair of ABS-CBN Foundation, Bantay Bata 163 began as a hotline to report incidents of child abuse. Nowadays, it also offers educational assistance and manages a childcare residential facility where rescued victims of child abuse are cared for until they are ready to rejoin their families and community.

Amid the pandemic, Bantay Bata 163 continues to serve Filipino children through educational assistance, Children’s Village, and Hotline 163. In fact, it even expanded its Hotline 163 system with the launch of Bantay Bata 163’s own Facebook page in 2020 that enabled it to be more responsive to reports on abuse and other needs of children.

Bantay Bata 163 director of advocacy Ernie Lopez, Gina’s brother, expressed his gratitude to each one that helped the program sustain its services for more than two decades.

“There is a lot more work to be done but I want to thank all of you for your hard work all these 24 years. Without the grace of God, without volunteers like you, without hardworking employees like you, and without the gracious generosity of donors and

sponsors, we would not still be around,” he said in a recorded video.

Joining him in leading Bantay Bata 163 to new heights is his and Gina’s sister Roberta Lopez-Feliciano, the new managing director of the ABS-CBN Foundation.

“Bantay Bata has grown in reach and scope, tackling the deeply rooted issues of poverty, inequality, and violence through holistic support services aimed at producing citizens with a deep sense of social responsibility and action. We continue to improve our services and online presence to ensure that we are able to address current issues such as online sexual abuse and exploitation of children, cyber-bullying and child mental health,” she said.

Meanwhile, as Bantay Bata 163 continues to provide protection and love for Filipino kids, its former scholars have also lent their voices in seeking help for children who experienced the same hardships they went through.

One of them, Christian Jake Ramos said, “Dahil natapos ko ang aking pag-aaral, nabigyan ako ng pag-asa na may naghihintay na magandang

kinabukasan para sa akin. Marami pang bata ang nangangarap na magkaroon ng magandang kinabukasan para po sa buhay nila, sa pamilya nila, kaya sana po matulungan po natin sila lalo na 'yung nangangailangan talaga ng tulong.”

To help, donations may be sent to the following bank accounts of Bantay Bata 163 (ALKFI-Bantay Bata 163): BDO - SA 0039 3000 6612; PNB - CA 1103 7000 1298; and BPI - CA 3051-1101-95.

Donations can also be coursed through GCash or PayMaya.

Meanwhile, the “Bawat Isa ay Bata” video, which features appearances of Kapamilya stars like MayMay Entrata, Edward Barber, and Piolo Pascual, is still up on the ABS-CBN Foundation Facebook page. The song was written by Mark Raywin Tome with music by Lloyd Oliver Corpuz and Jungee Marcelo. The video was produced by Kay Marie Batac.

For updates, follow @ bantaybata163PH on Facebook or visit www.abs-cbnfoundation.com. For news, follow @ABSCBNPR on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram or go to www.abs-cbn.com/ newsroom.

Globe at Home now available via GrabMart 31,with code UNLIFREEDEL upon checkout.

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OTEL 101 Group, the hospitality arm of DoubleDragon Properties Corp., intensifies its health and safety campaign #StaySafeStayHappy for all its hotels –– Hotel 101–Manila, Injap Tower Hotel in Iloilo and Jinjiang Inn Philippines, with hotels in Ortigas, Makati, and Boracay Station 1.

“A safe stay is a happy stay; and with #StaySafeStayHappy, Hotel 101 Group’s health and safety campaign, our hotels make sure every guest has nothing short of a safe and happy stay with us” says Gel Gomez, Hotel 101 Group General Manager.

“This year, we have ensured that all staff continue to be always thorough and diligent in adhering to the safety standards and protocols we have in place in our guest rooms and public areas,” Gomez adds.

The hotel rooms go through rigorous cleaning and sanitation process which includes a ULV Fogger Sprayer for all hotels, and an additional medical grade UV room sterilizer for Hotel 101 – Manila. Each room also has a complimentary Happy Kit, which includes face mask, sanitizing and cleaning items for guests’ use during their stay.

Likewise, the hotels have physical distancing protocols in place in all areas. Thermal screening of all guests and employees is done upon entry, and alcoholbased sanitizers are available in public areas.

Acrylic screen guards are in place at the Front Desk and Concierge areas, while all employees are required to wear face mask, face shield, and other PPE. Luggage are disinfected before they enter the hotel premises, while key cards, ball pens, and other “high touch” surfaces are also disinfected every hour, or every after use.

Each hotel has a dedicated Health & Safety Officer who ensures strict compliance and implementation of the standards and regulations set by the different

government agencies, and the new normal protocols of the hotels.

“The Hotel 101 Group remains committed to provide a safe, comfortable, and happy stay for all, which our guests have known about us for these past years,” GM Gomez adds.

In 2020, the Hotel 101 Group was also awarded the SafeTravels seal, the world’s first ever global safety and hygiene mark by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), for its adherence to the SafeTravels health and hygiene global standardized protocols.

St. Luke’s Foundation searches for medical scholars

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HE St. Luke’s Medical Center Foundation, Inc. has announced the opening of its search for Full FiveYear Medical Scholarship Grantees starting this coming Academic Year 2021. The program is open to all Filipino students who wish to pursue but cannot afford the expensive medical education in the country for them to fulfill their dreams of becoming excellent doctors someday.

The grant provides a 100% funding for the tuition, laboratory, miscellaneous and other school fees as well as yearly book allowance that will cover the student’s full Doctor of Medicine Program at the St. Luke’s Medical Center College of Medicine – William H. Quasha Memorial (SLMCCM-WHQM).

The SLMCCM-WHQM is acknowledged as one of the country’s top medical schools with a 100% passing rate record for its first-time taker graduates in

the Professional Regulations Commission Physician’s Licensure Examination consistently since 2009.

Established in 1994, SLMCCM-WHQM aims to produce future doctors by catering to students with strong desire to develop into exceptional physicians and leaders of the medical profession. It boasts of innovative medical and scholarship education system drawn from its long years of providing top notch academic and training facility and faculty. The school is noted to be among with the most subjects in basic and clinical research that continuously produce graduates primed towards specializations in pursuit of excellent healthcare and world-class technology.

Application form is now available at http://www. stlukesfoundation.org.ph while queries may also be coursed through email address slmcfoundation@gmail. com or tel. no. 8723-01-01 ext. 3823.

A good meal is physically nourishing, emotionally nurturing and prepared with healthy cooking oil

Fast Internet Connection

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RAB has partnered with Phillippine internet service provider Globe at Home, to make affordable prepaid connectivity solutions more accessible to Filipinos. Through GrabMart, the partnership will allow customers to choose from Globe at Home’s selection of internet products and have it delivered directly to their doorstep.

“Being connected is more important now more than ever. Reliable internet connection enables us to enjoy our favorite movie and music, and it also allows us to be productive and attend virtual meetings, as more companies shift to a work-from-home setup. It’s also a necessary instrument for online businesses to grow by reaching a

wider audience. Most importantly, being connected allows us to buy groceries and other essentials,” said EJ dela Vega, Head of Deliveries for Grab Philippines.

With just a few taps using the GrabMart service, customers can now avail of leading internet products such as Globe At Home Prepaid, LTE-Advanced, and Xtreme Prepaid Wifi, which offer instant connectivity perks at affordable prices.

The products can be delivered within a 10 kilometer radius from where customers are and have them delivered right at the doorstep. If customers make a minimum purchase of P900, they can also avail of GrabMart’s Unlimited Free Delivery Promo, which runs until March

GLOBE, a leader in internet service in the Philippines offers a wide range of connectivity solutions for everyone.

The Globe At Home Prepaid Wifi, for instance, provides up to two times stronger internet connection and stronger signal than Globe MyFi for only P999. It’s loadable with affordable data promos and shareable for up to 6 devices.

The new LTE-Advanced Globe at Home Prepaid WiFi is Globe’s fastest prepaid WiFi ever vs. other Globe Prepaid modems.

It has doble bilis boosters and is shareable for the whole family for only P1,999.

All-in-one internet TV box Xtreme Prepaid Wifi, meanwhile, allows the home to be an entertainment hub with access to 1,000,000 videos, series, and movies through streaming platforms. It offers high-speed internet powered by Globe LTE, as well as features that let you plug in 2 microphones for a videoke sesh or do things using Google Assistant, and even clear viewing of local TV shows.

Globe at Home offers a variety of prepaid HomeSURF promos, for as low as P99 so the whole family can also enjoy non-stop fun at home.

Both gadgets are easy and quick to set up. Just simply plug and play. That’s Home Prepaid and Xtreme Prepaid WiFi’s reliable connection made easier with Grab and Globe!

“Globe’s home prepaid WiFi sets the bar for broadband not only because of its larger capacity, but more importantly for its affordability and accessibility. We decided to partner with Grab because of the shopping convenience it offers.

Customers can order our budget-friendly internet solutions right in the comfort of their homes. All they have to do is browse through GrabMart and choose the package that suits their needs,” said Darius Delgado, Vice President and Head of Broadband Business at Globe.

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OW would you describe a perfect start to your day? For many of us, having a hearty breakfast waiting for us after a good night’s sleep can easily set the stage for the day ahead.

But while enjoying a good meal is obviously physically nourishing, it can be emotionally nurturing as well. It’s very Filipinos to put family above everything else. There’s just something special about morning bonding around the breakfast table, exchanging laughs and bright smiles while enjoying good food. In a time when our world seems smaller, moments like these are very important to keep our relationships flourishing despite our struggles.

Breakfast being an essential part of the day is something that TV personality Saab Magalona believes in. A doting mother to Pancho and Vito, she never misses the chance to start their day right by cooking something simple yet special.

"When preparing meals for the boys, I always think about what's healthy for them and what they will enjoy. With the current situation, I want to make sure that they are eating food that will boost their immunity,” Saab shares in her vlog where she also featured the favorite recipe of her son Pancho.

For breakfast, she loves whipping up a quick recipe made of broccoli, kale, spinach, eggs, yogurt, and garlic—foods that are

all good for boosting the immune system.

According to Saab, she makes sure to not only prepare dishes that her sons will love, but she also considers how healthy the cooking process is and how much it can help their overall health.

Putting attention to the way food is prepared is something any doting mom can relate to. Despite our love for easy, fried food for breakfast, it’s still important to consider how the food is cooked because it also affects the nutrition we are getting.

“I also make sure that the oil I use is healthy. I like that Pacific Sunrise is enriched with Vitamins A and B, Omega 6 and 9, plus it has 0 percent cholesterol and trans fat.

Also, it is non-GMO so it is perfect for a healthy breakfast for my family.”

Pacific Sunrise cooking oil is a brand of Agri Pacific Corporation (which is under the Rebisco Group of Companies), which advocates healthy and meaningful breakfasts. In addition to being packed with vitamins and nutrients that can boost the immune system, it is also considered best to use for various cooking methods thanks to the healthier processing it goes through compared to non-palm-based oils. On top of that, it has a neutral and clean taste which allows the flavor of anything you cook with it to be the star.

For more information visit (www. pacificsunrise.com.ph).

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

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AMING a star whose career wasn’t polished to a luster at the Beach Volleyball Republic (BVR) would be as difficult as finding a pin head in the sand.

Jackie Estoquia and DM Demontaño are just two of the current local stars who have become household names in the Philippine beach volleyball scene in the past few years.

The pride of Iloilo, Estoquia and Demontaño made it big in 2016 when they become regulars in the BVR on Tour and consistent podium contenders in every leg.

“The BVR gave me and those from the provinces the opportunity to play in the big city against the big names of the sport,” said Estoquia, a product of University of San Agustin.

“It’s at the BVR that I got better and was able to play at the national and international level.”

The Sta. Lucia duo consider their stint in the national team as the highlight of their active career. They made their international debut in the 2018 FIVB Beach Volleyball World Tour Manila Open and returned for another tour of duty in the 2019 edition in Boracay.

“Playing in the BVR was one of the turning points of my beach volleyball career because it paved way for local players like me to show our skills and play against the best local and international players,” said Demontaño a product of the Central Philippine University.

The other big names who made their mark in the BVR are Negros Occidental’s Alexa Polidario, Erjane

Magdato and Jennifer Cosas.

One of the most winningest pairs in the BVR on Tour, Polidario and Magdato’s battle-tested partnership resulted to gold medals in the Moalboal, Cebu (2017), Santa Fe, Bantayan Island, Cebu (2018) and Dumaguete (2019).

program will be aired on Monday over PBA Rush.

Along with Marcial, the 2019 recipient of the traditional Danny Floro Executive of the Year award, PBA Chairman Ricky Vargas, will also be honored during the event to be hosted by Rizza Diaz and Carlo Pamintuan.

One more award—Outstanding Coach of the Bubble—will be named.

The 12 teams which went out of their way in order not to cancel the PBA season are the recipient of the President’s Award together with 2019 winner Vergel Meneses, the current Bulakan, Bulacan, mayor and one of the 25 Greatest Players in league history.

San Miguel Beer coach Leo Austria also shares centerstage as the 2019 Virgilio “Baby” Dalupan Coach of the Year as well as NorthPort veteran Sean Anthony as the 2019 Defensive Player of the Year.

WILLIAMS BACK WITH KATROPA

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By Josef Ramos

ETERAN Kelly Williams will be back in a TNT Tropang Giga uniform just six months after announcing his retirement.

TNT team manager Gabby Cui told BusinessMirror on Thursday that the 39-year-old Williams signed a fresh two-year deal with the KaTropa and will suit up in the coming 46th season of the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA).

“We would like to welcome Kelly back to TNT Tropang Giga,” Cui said. “His leadership and experience will help us achieve success in the upcoming conference.”

TNT governor Ricky Vargas, the current league chairman, also welcomed Williams.

“Welcome home Kelly [Williams], great to have you back. Cheers,” Vargas said in a statement.

Williams left the TNT training bubble at the Inspire Sports Academy in Laguna and later announced his retirement.

The 2007 Most Valuable Player had a career average of 10.4 points, 7.5 rebounds and 1.3 assists since playing for Sta. Lucia Realty, which made him the top overall pick in 2006 Rookie Draft.

Williams is not the only one returning to TNT as Chot Reyes was appointed head coach only last month.

KELLY WILLIAMS comes out of retirement.

2021 PFL season moved to July Torre

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HE Philippines Football League’s (PFL) 2021 season will be played in July, instead of April, to give way to the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Champions League which was rescheduled for April.

PFL Commissioner Coco Torre told BusinessMirror on Thursday that the AFC only recently announced the new Champions League schedule which covers April 7 to 17 for the preliminaries and April 17 to May 7 for the

group stages.

Domestic teams United City and Kaya-Iloilo are playing in the Champions’ League for finishing 1-2 in the PFL last season.

“We are now eyeing to start the season in July as we would also want a clear path heading towards the resumption of the league which will be celebrating its fifth season,” Torre said. “We have a very slim window in May as we’re still deliberating on whether to play that short time [in May] or just focus our sources to a much bigger and longer league starting July.”

Torre also said that they are avoiding a collision in schedule with the World Cup Qualifiers in June where the national team will resume its bid to advance to the global stage.

Friday, March 5, 2021 B7

ORGANIZING committee President Seiko Hashimoto stops short of saying there would be no foreign fans in Tokyo. AP

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OKYO—The new president of the Tokyo Olympic organizing committee stopped short of saying there would be no foreign fans at this year’s Games, but she certainly hinted at it Wednesday after online talks with International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach and others.

The Japanese newspaper Mainichi reported Wednesday that the decision had already been made to exclude foreign fans. It cited only unnamed sources “involved in the discussions.”

“If the situation is tough and it would make the [Japanese] consumers concerned, that is a situation we need to avoid from happening,” organizing committee President Seiko Hashimoto said.

The newspaper report came just before Hashimoto’s meeting with Bach. She said a decision on foreign fans will come by the end of the month, and she wants one by March 25, when the torch relay begins from northeastern Japan.

The Olympics are scheduled to open on July 23.

“In the current situation it is impossible to bring in foreign spectators,” the Mainichi

PBA scribes name Marcial Mr. Executive

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BusinessMirror

BVR polishes careers to a luster

ILOILO pride Jackie Estoquia and DM Demontaño are two of the talented beach volleyballes whose career sparkeds in the Beach Volleyball Republic.

HE man responsible for the successful staging of the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Philippine Cup bubble in Clark will share the limelight during the virtual PBA Press Corps Awards Night on Sunday at the TV5 Media Center.

The men and women who cover the PBA beat are bestowing the title Mr. Executive to league Commissioner Willie Marcial for bravely leading the way for the 500-strong delegation to stage the 45th season in Clark amid risks from the Covid-19 pandemic.

The bubble was without a hitch, but Marcial, strong-minded and firm in his decisions, managed to navigate a troubled season into safe waters and put a fitting end to what has been the most challenging period in the history of Asia’s first professional basketball league.

Marcial serves as one of the major awardees in the hour-long event presented by Cignal TV. The

Sports newspaper said, citing an unnamed government official.

Hashimoto was asked after the meeting how Japan could even consider letting in thousands of overseas fans, given how unpopular the idea is at home where up to 80 percent want the Olympics canceled or postponed again. Japan has attributed about 8,000 deaths to Covid-19, but has controlled it much better than most countries.

Hashimoto confirmed that the subject of fans was a key part of the “five-party” talks with Bach, International Paralympic Committee President Andrew Parsons, Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike and Olympic Minister Tamayo Marukawa.

Bach hinted at hard choices to be made in comments before the meeting was closed to reporters.

“We will focus on the essentials,” Bach said.

“That means mainly the competitions. This has to be the clear focus. In this respect we may have to set one or another priority.”

The exclusion of foreign fans has been almost a foregone conclusion with the Games

being held during a pandemic. The Japanese public has been openly opposed to the Games, and one sticking point has been the risk presented by visitors entering the country. The other has been the soaring costs.

The Games will involve 11,000 Olympic athletes, and later 4,400 Paralympians, and tens of thousands of coaches, judges, sponsors, media and VIPs. Bach said he was encouraged at the number of national Olympic committees that were getting athletes vaccinated. The IOC said it encourages vaccinations but will not require them.

Bach said his hope was “to have as many participants as possible arriving vaccinated to Tokyo.”

“There I can inform you that a considerable number of national Olympic committees has already secured this pre-Tokyo vaccination,” Bach said.

The general plan is to isolate athletes in the Olympic Village alongside Tokyo Bay; put them in a bubble when they arrive, and until they leave Japan.

Hashimoto said a decision on venue capacity will be made by the end of April. She said the “zero-fans option” was not discussed. AP

Motoring BusinessMirror

Henry Ford Awards Best Motoring Section 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 2011 Hall of Fame

Editor: Tet Andolong

B8 Friday, March 5, 2021

Tiger’s Hyundai crash; BMW unveils 4 series

Countryside (S)tonic

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The radiant Flash Yellow color is an absolute standout

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Story & photos

by Randy S. Peregrino

AUNCHED late last year, the hip and stylish Stonic was Kia Philippines’s newest subcompact crossover to join its growing lineup in the country.

Accordingly, it targets the young and active individuals who turn their dreams into reality day-byday and know how to have fun in the process. With its “style that is Iconic” catchphrase, this chic crossover suits first-time buyers and trendy car owners who want to showcase their exquisite taste in their vehicle.

To finally experience this promising crossover, we joined Kia Philippines for a modified test drive event.

For the first time since the pandemic, automotive companies have begun to adopt the new normal in holding events.

But for drive events such as this, strict health safety protocols were done along with prior antigen testing to ensure a Covid-free gathering. The destination of choice was a 160-kilometer scenic drive going through Nasugbu, Batangas winding and coastal roads to Cucina Bernardo in Silang, Cavite (via Tagaytay).

Iconic style

When we finally encountered the Stonic (Flash Yellow EX variant) in the metal, it was obvious what that catchphrase is all about. The head-turning design language is no longer a surprise in every Kia vehicle nowadays. Immediately, there’s no denying that Peter Schreyer’s name is written all over it. The evident European touch is manifested in the compact design, sharp lines, and flowing surfaces.

Of course, there’s the signature Tiger Nose Grille complementing those sharp-looking Projector

Ergonomic and surprisingly roomy for a small crossover

Headlamps and luminous LED Daytime Running Lamps. Moreover, Fin Type Antenna, Roof Rails, Rear Combination Lamps, Rear Spoiler Garnish, and metallic accents. Additionally, dark matte panels underneath provided that rugged touch matching the twotone 16-inch alloy wheels with 185-millimeter ground clearance.

Surprisingly roomy with numerous features

For a B-segment crossover, Kia did wonders in establishing space without feeling cramped inside, thanks to the 2,570-millimeter wheelbase.

Since the Stonic was based on the Rio model, the cabin layout has major similarities. But the combination of piano black and metallic trims provided that individuality. But perhaps the main highlight inside is the new integrated eight-inch touchscreen display equipped with Apple Carplay and Android Auto, plus guided backing up display.

There’s also a USB port and a 12V socket for smartphone charging.

W hat is more, we like the sporty seats with thick side bolsters. As for the 60:40 split rear

benches, once folded flat, luggage space instantaneously turns up to 325 liters. Now that’s another plus factor. As for the air-conditioning system, it has automatic climate control and provided the desired cold cabin temperature.

By the way, you can go ahead and keep the fob key inside your pocket thanks to the keyless and push-button ignition.

Fun to drive

The Stonic is not just about looking iconic and stylish inside and out. Behind-the-wheel was even more engaging. At the heart of this small crossover is a thrifty 1.4-liter dual CV VT gasoline engine paired to a six-speed automatic transmission. Generating 99hp and 132 N-m of maximum torque, that engine displacement and power ratings are just enough to propel the vehicle’s sma l l frame. True enough, the vehicle felt light and quick in reaching city speed limits.

By the time we flagged off, the morning rush traffic was already building up. As an urban and out-of-town dweller, the Stonic’s

compact size made it easier for us to maneuver through traffic while surpassing slower cars. But in expressways, everything was smooth. The vehicle was stable and well-planted while cruising at highway speed limits. We also like the wheel’s embedded controls, which made controlling audio and other functions more convenient.

Much more when the smartphone pairing function is enabled.

As soon as we reached the Nasugbu-Ternate highway, the d r ive beca me more e xcit ing.

The winding roads enabled the Stonic to demonstrate its outst a nd ing n imble for m. Wit h light and responsive steering, entering and exiting every tight bend became rather benign. But during ascents, there was a need to push the throttle. That said, the Tiptronic transmission feature became handy. By swiftly downshifting to a certain gear where t he opt imu m torque level is, tackling uphill climbs b e c a me m a n a ge a ble. It a l so became useful in doing engine braking whenever needed, most especially during cornering.

We were impressed with the Stonic’s overall drivability and ag i l it y a s a sm a l l c rossover throughout the drive. It may not have a more potent motor, but it is more than enough and does the job well. More importantly, the engine performance leaned more towards efficiency, which is exactly the case for a city and out-of-town crossover.

For peace of mind, the Stonic is equipped with reliable safety features. Aside from the standard airbags, anti-lock brake system (ABS), and parking camera/ sensors, among others, there are driver-assist functions (EX model) such as Hill Start Assist and Electronic Stability Control for smooth navigation.

Max markdown on the Maxus T60

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N these current times where a steady flow of income is not guaranteed, the need for business owners to provide themselves with a reliable vehicle that can cater to both their home and business requirements come at a cost.

Thankfully, Maxus Philippines offers a pick-up truck that is dependable and cost-efficient for all-around use.

Offering a Max discount of P50,000 on all its T60 variants, this Max Markdown now gives more hardworking Filipinos the chance to bring home their own Maxus T60. With the discount off the regular SRPs, the T60 Pro 4x2 MT is now available at P948,000, while the T60 Pro 4x2 AT at P1,028,000, and the T60 Elite 4x4 AT at P1,278,000.

The T60 can accommodate the var ying needs of Filipino pickup owners whether for city or countryside driving. Thanks to its upsized dimensions, it provides better comfor t and capabilities in terms of legroom, payload capacity, towing power, and wading depth. By also being the longest in its class, the T60 has massive proportions that endows it with the capability

and versatility to carry all kinds of cargo in large quantities. Its 2.8-liter turbo diesel engine with Variable Geometry Turbocharger and Drive Mode Select mated to a 6-speed manual or automatic

transmission producing maximum power of 150Ps at 3,400rpm and maximum torque of 360 N-m at 1,600-2,800 rpm propel the vehicle with ample power, efficiency, and reliability.

All Maxus vehicles are infused with 126 years of British-bred heritage and experience in vehicles, topped off with Max quality, efficiency and convenience of its aftersales products, ser vices, and worr y-free ownership. With a 5-year warranty (or 100,000 km. whichever comes first) and a periodic maintenance service (PMS) interval schedule of the first 5,000 km. and every succeeding 15,000 km. (or once a year, whichever comes first). On top of all that, Maxus Philippines also offers a 24/7 Emergency Roadside Assistance (ERA). Owning a Maxus T60 will truly give the value for money that its hardworking owners deserve and assures that the Maxus T60 experience will follow through not only with its promise of durability, but also the well-deserved peace of mind of its owners so they can finally focus on what’s important: building their homes and businesses for a better life.

For more information about Maxus Philippines’s T60 4x2 Pro and 4x4 Elite, log on to www.maxus. com.ph and book a test drive with your nearest Maxus dealerships.

IGER Woods, golf’s living legend, wasn’t driving his own car when he figured in a road accident last week. The SUV Genesis GV80 vehicle was lent to him by Hyundai, the giant South Korean company. The SUV was the title sponsor of the Genesis Invitational, the golf tournament hosted by Tiger at the Riviera Club in Los Angeles, CA. Max Homa, the winner, drove home a GV80 priced at $50,000 (approximately P2.5M).

Tiger refused a driver being offered him by Hyundai.

Although the Genesis earned praise for safety issues, Tiger’s unfamiliarity with the SUV may have contributed to the single-vehicle crash.

Luckily for Tiger, the accident was not lifethreatening, although it was career-threatening. His right leg suffered multiple fractures and his right ankle was shattered. He escaped head and body injuries and was fortunate the crash scene was just minutes away from the UCLA hospital, one of the best in orthopedic concerns. Doctors immediately performed surgeries using pins, screws, bolts and metal/titanium to repair his wounds. It will take him at least a year to return to golf. By that time, and by the grace of God, he’ll be 46. A bit old for competitive golf.

But with 15 majors to his name—three shy of Jack Nicklaus’s all-time best of 18—what is there to prove?

Tiger’s place in history is as secure as The Beatles in the music business. Not to mention his wealth can carry him to five lifetimes at the very least.

In Kyle Edward’s report at Forbes magazine, he wrote, quoting a police officer at the scene:“Tiger Woods is lucky to be alive and credited his survival to his car’s 10 airbags and the fact he was wearing a seatbelt. “…The GV80 is so new that the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety hasn’t yet given it a rating. However, the brand’s rated vehicles, the G90 and G70, have both received superior scores across the board including the coveted HHS top Safety Pick.

It’s expected that the G8o and GV80 will also fare very well when it comes to the safety tests.”

While the SUV was almost a total wreck from its front and back facades, an intact cabin could have helped save Tiger from absorbing major injuries.

On that, I give the Genesis GV80 a grade of A+ for preserving/protecting a living legend.

President Spencer Yu on BMW launch February 24

Good Afternoon.

I know that we are all just starting to get back into some semblance of normalcy.

So, thank you for joining us today.

You have just witnessed the Philippine reveal of the all-new BMW 4 Series Coupé.

This new 4 Series brings forth BMW’s newest design language and even more sporty character to the coupé segment.

This is only the first of a number of product introductions, carrying forward the momentum from a strong 2020.

Despite the challenges we all faced last year, we are very positive that the industry, especially the premium car segment, will recover soon.

Part of that recovery is our commitment to bringing the brand even closer to the market.

But first, please take the time to check out the all-new BMW 4 Series Coupé.

With that, I’d like to thank you once again for joining us this afternoon.

Remember to stay safe and healthy.

2.7-million RFID tags

SAN Miguel Corporation said this week that RFID tags have doubled from 1.3 million (2015-2019) to 2.7 million vehicles, according to SMC’s Jon Hernandez.

“More and more people are realizing the benefits of cashless transactions along our toll roads especially in this pandemic. It saves motorists time and money as it cuts travel time and reduces fuel consumption. Apart from that, it helps in improving air quality along our road systems,” SMC President Ramon S. Ang said.

Earlier, SMC also said that electronic toll collection at its expressways have increased to 84.09 percent, despite the continuing availability of cash lanes.

SMC operates the Southern Tagalog Arterial Road (STAR), South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), Skyway System, NAIA Expressway, and the Tarlac-PangasinanLa Union Expressway (TPLEX).

“Our roving caravans continue to go from village to village to install RFID stickers while our 160 installations sites are still available. We encourage everyone to join us in embracing this system for a better, safer and convenient travel experience especially in this time of Covid-19,” Ang said.

PEE STOP The year is barely starting but already, 304,571 RFID stickers have already been issued by SMC in Metro Manila and nearby provinces. Cheers!

SUZUKI PHL BREAKS GROUND FOR SUZUKI AUTO MATINA

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UZUKI Philippines Incorporated (SPH), the country’s pioneer compact car distributor, adds yet another dealership to start the year right in their roster of auto houses in the country, this time, in Davao City. The new dealership soon to rise in General Douglas Mac Arthur Highway, Talomo, Davao City, Davao del Sur is Autocentrale Group’s sixth dealership under their group.

Suzuki Auto Matina will rise on a 3,000sqm land and will be able to house 7 units for display and 8 work bays to accommodate different servicing transactions simultaneously. The new dealership will answer to the rising market demand in the Davao region, and provide the community in the area with quality service that is uniquely Suzuki.

The virtual ground breaking ceremony was led

by Cebu Autocentrale Corp. President Brian Chua, managing director Deborah Chua, and Suzuki Philippines Vice President and General Manager for Automobile Division Keiichi Suzuki. Keiichi shared,

“We in Suzuki Philippines are optimistic that the new Suzuki Auto Matina will attain its goals in the many years to come, and will definitely strengthen our presence with our growing market in Davao.

Through this new dealership, it solidifies the team’s commitment to provide quality service and offer only the best of Suzuki’s top notch products.”

The dealership is set to open its doors early next year. Currently, Cebu Autocentrale Corporation operates five more dealerships, Suzuki Auto North Cebu, Suzuki Auto SM City Cebu, Suzuki Auto Mactan, Suzuki Auto SM Consolacion and Suzuki Auto Cagayan de Oro. With their vast experience in the automotive industry, this new dealership will be a contributing factor in bringing the brand to the forefront in Mindanao.

For more information about Suzuki visit http:// suzuki.com.ph/auto/, like it on https://twitter. com/SuzukiAutoPH and follow on Instagram at @ suzukiautoph.