BusinessMirror March 02, 2024

THE FLIGHT BACK TO SUPERSONIC ERA

Defense contractors show keen interest to supply PHL with modern fighter planes

ABy Rex Anthony Naval

S the Philippines labors to build up its defenses to better protect its vast and rich territorial waters, weapons manufacturers from all over the world are making their presence felt and have expressed their keen interest to cater to the country’s military requirements.

One such program awaiting successful conclusion is the Philippine Air Force’s (PAF) multirole fighter (MRF) project, which is worth around P61 billion and calls for the delivery of at least 12 advanced jet fighters to the military.

It is described as the “game changer” of all the Revised Armed Forces Philippines Modernization Program (RAFPMP) acquisition projects because the MRFs, once successfully acquired, will provide the PAF with the means to protect the country’s vast airspace against hostile air threats.

As of this writing, there are no clear winners yet for the project, although defense manufacturers, the US’s Lockheed Martin and Swedish Saab have expressed their intention to participate in this project.

Lockheed Martin is offering its F-16V “Viper” and other variants of the aircraft, while Saab is

trying to sell its JAS-39C/D “Gripen” models.

However, despite protracted interest from the two nations, the PAF and the Department of National Defense (DND) have still to make any concrete pronouncements about the project’s progress.

General specifications

THE Swedish-made Gripen is a light single-engine MRF capable of speeds up to Mach 2.0. It is armed with a 20mm automatic cannon and can carry an assortment of rockets, bombs, missiles and surveillance equipment.

Meanwhile, the American F-16 Viper also has a top speed of Mach 2.0, is equipped with a 20mm cannon and can be loaded with a variety of the latest rockets, bombs and missiles.

Initially, the MRF project was part of the Horizon 2 of the RAFMP, which was scheduled for 2018 to 2022 and geared for exter-

nal defense.

Any aircraft that will be selected must be able to integrate with existing radar systems that have a range of around 250 nautical miles.

These proposed MRFs are expected to augment the existing fleet of 12 South Korean-made Mach 1.5-capable FA-50PH jet aircraft acquired from 2015 to 2017.

The FA-50PH is the first supersonic aircraft of the PAF after the decommissioning of its Northrop F-5 “Tiger” jet fighters in 2005, more than 40 years after their acquisition in 1965.

No clear winning proponent for now HOWEVER, sources familiar with the program said defense officials are making sure that the MRF to be selected will be sustainable and operable in the long run as to allow the Philippines to deploy jet fighters to its exclusive economic zone to ward off intruders.

This indicates that planners expect the manufacturer of the prospective MRF to promptly provide parts and technicians to the country in case of technical issues that could potentially ground or impede the aircraft from flying.

They also aim for the prospective MRF to have the capability to carry or integrate existing weapons and armament used by the PAF, eliminating the necessity for a costly integration process.

Planners also seek the capability for the chosen MRF manufacturer to promptly provide re -

placement aircraft in the event of damage or destruction due to accidents or combat, if deployed.

This means that the manufacturer of the winning MRF design must have an existing production line to allow the continuous flow of parts.

The Philippine Air Force’s requirements for its MRF project specify that the offered aircraft must be “fourth generation or higher,” with proponents capable of delivering 12 units or more for P61 billion. The selected MRF must also be capable of patrolling the country’s vast waters and airspace and capable of integration with existing radar systems that have a range of around 250 nautical miles.

Some clarifications

AS this developed, the DND on February 19 issued a clarification stating that to date, no agreement or deal has been reached regarding the MRF project, contrary to “certain news articles and posts circulating online.”

“As such, the procurement of the MRF is still open and ongoing,” it added.

The DND also emphasized that the February 16 news statement where it said that the Philippines and Sweden are working on the implementing arrangement (IA) on defense materiel procurement was apparently misunderstood and interpreted by some (not the BusinessMirror) media outlets to mean that the MRF has been finalized in favor of Saab.

“The IA is a document regarding the implementation of the memorandum of understanding and establishes commitment to develop long-term cooperation in the field of defense procurement,” it added.

Logistics agreement

THE IA is for Procurement of Defense Materiel and Equipment (PDME) with Sweden and the latest meeting to finalize took place last January 17.

“The IA-PDME is expected to be concluded and signed as one of the major outputs of the forthcoming inaugural Philippines-Sweden Joint Committee Meeting to be held in March 2024 in Sweden,” DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said.

He added that this logistics cooperation is part of the commitment of the two countries under the Memorandum of Understanding Concerning Cooperation in the Acquisition of Defense Materiel signed by the two countries on June 3, 2023, and ratified on September 4 of the same year.

“The Philippine side, consisting of representatives from the DND, Department of Finance, and Department of Foreign Affairs, and the Sweden side led by Swedish Ambassador to the Philippines Her Excellency Annika Thunborg, are working on the finalization of the IA-PDME,” Andolong pointed out.

As of this time, he said that the DND is undertaking the necessary procedures for the conclusion

of international executive agreements.

Once signed, the IA-PDME will allow Sweden, through Saab, to formally participate in the PAF’s MRF project and offer the Gripen against the F-16 Viper in the bidding process.

India also interested AS this developed, the Indian government on February 15 brought a delegation to the country to highlight the advances it made on its military technology and equipment that might be acquired in the RAFMP.

The event, sponsored by the Indian Embassy, presented to DND officials and other stakeholders aircraft, drones, helicopters, along with artificial intelligence technologies.

Indian Ambassador to the Philippines Shambhu Kumaran said buying defense equipment from India is a good option as its prices are competitive compared to others.

Among the companies present were DCM Shriram Industries Ltd, Bharat Dynamics Limited, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, Mahindra Emirates Vehicle Armouring FZ LLC, MKU Limited, and Adani Defence Systems and Technologies Limited.

Kumaran expressed hope that India could be part of the ongoing RAFPMP, considering that the Philippines had earlier acquired its BrahMos cruise missile system from them.

HOG Festival organizers led by the National Federation of Hog Farmers Chairman Chester Tan (clapping at right, in brown jacket) and Vice Chairman Alfred Ng receive the Guinness World Records certificate from Guinness official adjudicator Sonia Ushirogochi at rites capping the festival at the Gateway Mall in Araneta Center, Quezon City. Cheering them on are Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel, QC Mayor Joy Belmonte and SINAG Chairman Rosendo So. BERNARD TESTA

SEN. Cynthia Villar and QC Mayor Joy Belmonte enjoy recipes from the participating booths at the Hog Festival at Gateway Mall, Araneta Center. BERNARD TESTA

Pakistan’s army still firmly in command despite election rebuke

By Betsy Joles, Faseeh Mangi and Kamran Haider Bloomberg News

PAKISTAN’S voters expressed their disillusionment with the nation’s powerful military in a surprising election result earlier this month. But the army is still poised to have more control from behind the scenes than ever—and reviving the economy will be its ultimate test.

The military, which has ruled Pakistan directly or indirectly for most of its modern history, is set to make all important decisions on foreign policy and security for the country’s new government and have a more expanded role in running the nation’s economy, a person familiar with the matter said.

Shehbaz Sharif, who’s expected to become prime minister, is likely to be only a figurehead, the person said, asking not to be identified because the information is private.

Army’s show

THE army is consolidating power as Pakistan faces the worst inflation in Asia, a crippling debt load and the need to negotiate another bailout from the International Monetary Fund. Observers are largely pessimistic that a weak coalition propped up by the military will fare any better than similar governments in the past.

While the army “definitely has more credibility” than politicians, “it has not shown historically a

strong grasp or understanding of what needs to be done,” said Yousuf Nazar, a former Citigroup Inc. banker and author of The Gathering Storm: Pakistan.

Pakistan’s military and Sharif’s party did not respond to a request for a comment.

Pakistan’s two old-guard political parties—controlled by the Sharif and Bhutto clans—agreed last week to form a government, breaking an almost two-week impasse after an inconclusive election on February 8.

The elected lawmakers will meet on February 29 in the first session of National Assembly that will select a prime minister with former premier Shehbaz Sharif expected to take the job.

The move thwarts the former premier Imran Khan, who fell out of favor with the military and ended up in jail. His party colleagues were forced to run as independents, and still won the most seats but fell short of an outright majority. Khan’s party did better than most surveys, which is seen as a sharp rebuke of the military’s attempts

to sideline Khan and engineer the elections to their desired outcome.

The new coalition regime “will be entirely reliant on the goodwill of the military to be able to stay in place,” said Omar Warraich, a political commentator and special advisor at Open Society Foundations, an organization that gives grants in support of civil society. The army can easily bring it down if it disagrees on policy, he said.

That has been the story for much of Pakistan’s history since independence in 1947. Khan himself, for instance, was widely seen as backed by the generals when he came to power in 2018. But the relationship soured when the former cricketer tried to influence military appointments, leading to his ouster. Shehbaz was anointed as his successor. His brother Nawaz, a three-time former premier, also had a history of being backed and then deposed by the military, including once in a coup.

Shehbaz has been conciliatory with the military, including publicly praising army chief Asim Munir. During his time in office, Shehbaz’s government passed two bills to give the military more power. One criminalized criticism of the armed forces; the other gave the security forces unlimited power to arrest any individual they deem a threat.

‘Authoritarian regime’

PAKISTAN set up a Special Investment Facilitation Council in June, during Shehbaz’s term, to promote foreign investments and spur growth. One of the council’s

members is the army chief, Munir. Its immediate aim has been to increase foreign direct investment to $5 billion. So far no major deals have been signed.

The Economist Intelligence Unit’s 2023 Democracy Index, released earlier this month, downgraded Pakistan to an “authoritarian regime” from a “hybrid regime.”

Pakistan’s arch-rival India expects Pakistan’s military to play a more pivotal role with the fractured mandate making it impossible for any individual leader turning against the army, an official familiar with the matter said, asking not to be identified as the person isn’t authorized to speak to the media.

They also do not rule out peace overtures with India after new governments settle in both countries, said the official. India’s elections are scheduled for later this year.

Some in Pakistan see the military’s heavy-handed role as a good thing.

“Whenever we’ve had a military government, decision-making is easier. So the economic indicators are at times better,” said Omar Mahmood Hayat, a retired military lieutenant general and chairman of Unity Foods Ltd., a Pakistani food manufacturer, citing the economy under former military dictator Pervez Musharraf.

Musharraf ruled from 1999 until 2008 and oversaw an economy that fared better than other elected governments, according to the misery index by Bloomberg Economics, which looks at unemployment and inflation rates.

Musharraf was favored by Western allies. His tenure, which largely coincided with the worst years of the War on Terror, saw a healthy inflow of dollars into Pakistan for combating terrorism.

Hayat says the army offers continuity of policies that civilian governments often can’t.

One question is how the public will respond to the new government after voters delivered a rebuke to the status quo by voting for Khan’s loyalists. Supporters of Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party took to the streets last weekend to protest alleged vote-rigging.

“Definitely the message is that people are not happy with their intervention,” Ayesha Siddiqa, a political scientist and senior fellow at King’s College London, said of the army.

Shehbaz’s brother, Nawaz, was widely expected to become the new prime minister, with the backing of the army, after he returned from exile in London and was acquitted of corruption charges.

But Shehbaz became the military’s choice, according to Mohammad Waseem, a political science professor at Lahore University of Management Sciences.

“He is a great compromiser,” Waseem said. “He will try to stabilize the situation by giving and taking during critical moments.”

Still, brokering an agreement with the IMF will for Sharif—and the military behind him—require accepting tough conditions from the multilateral lender, which are likely to anger the public even more.

He also said that India’s loan offer to help the country fund its defense modernization is still on the table.

Connecting more with allies

MEANWHILE, Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. on February 22 expressed the need for the Philippines to reaffirm its alliances with like-minded nations if it wants to uphold the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea amid security challenges in the region.

Teodoro made this reiteration following a visit from a delegation of United States National Defense University Capstone 24-2 Fellows.

The DND clarified that the countries referred to are the United States and Australia, with which the Philippines has existing Visiting Forces Agreements.

The delegation was headed by Senior Fellow and retired US Marine Corps Gen. John F. Kelly.

Teodoro also highlighted the country’s ongoing efforts to create a credible defense posture and strengthen international partner-

ships with allied countries. It is important, Teodoro also said, to educate the Filipino people on the political and economic implications of the West Philippine Sea.

Aside from this, Teodoro said the DND is working on the capability upgrade of the AFP to protect the Philippines’s exclusive economic zone.

Capstone is a five-week course for newly selected generals and flag officers that will equip them with a comprehensive understanding of joint doctrine and the principles of the “joint operational art.”

SUPPORTERS of opposition political party Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam hold a protest against alleged vote-rigging in some constituencies in the parliamentary elections, near the Sindh assembly in Karachi, Pakistan, Saturday, February 24, 2024. AP/FAREED KHAN

Editor: Angel R. Calso

Mayor Abby leads ceremonial turnover of ₧47.5-M aid to disaster-stricken LGUs

MAKATI Mayor Abby Binay led the ceremonial distribution of financial assistance amounting to P47.5 million to 76 disaster-stricken provinces, cities and municipalities in the country that were devastated by strong earthquakes, typhoons, and severe flooding last year. Present at the ceremony were governors, mayors and other official representatives of the recipient LGUs.

The mayor said the recipients include 40 local government units hit by tropical cyclones “Egay” and “Falcon” in July last year, 17 LGUs severely flooded due to combined shear line and low pressure area in November, and 19 localities affected by strong earthquakes in November and December.

“Makati understands the importance of extending a helping hand to our fellow Filipinos. In the face of adversity, it is imperative that we come together as a nation, united in our determination to provide relief and support to those in need,” Mayor Abby said.

The mayor has ordered the allocation of amounts ranging from P250,000 to P1 million for each LGU, depending on the severity of the damage incurred.

She also reiterated the city’s plan to offer satellite imaging service as part of its assistance to calamity-hit localities, recognizing the importance of rapid assessment of the extent and severity of damage in the affected area.

“Makati is ready to offer our expertise, resources, and support in any way possible to aid in the recovery and rebuilding efforts of affected LGUs. We stand ready to collaborate, listen, and lend a helping hand wherever it is needed,” Mayor Abby said.

The city has earmarked a total of P8,750,000 for 17 municipalities of Northern Samar and Eastern Samar affected by the combined effects of shear line and low-pressure area last November. These include Catarman and Laoang with P1 million each; Pambujan,  Palapag, Mondragon and Dolores with P750,000 each; San Roque, Las Navas, Catubig and Bobon with P500,000 each; and Lapinig, Lope de Vega, Rosario, Silvino Lobos, Arteche, Jipapad and Oras with P250,000 each.

For 18 localities in Surigao del Sur severely affected by the 7.4 magnitude earthquake last December 2, the city has allocated P12,500,000. These are Barobo, Bislig, Hinatuan, San Miguel, Tagbina, Tago and Tandag with P1

million each; Carrascal, Lianga, Lingig with P750,000 each; Cagwait, Cortes, Madrid, Marihatag and San Agustin with P500,000 each; and Bayabas, Carmen and Lanuza with P250,000 each.

The city has also allotted P250,000 for Glan municipality in Sarangani Province hit by the 6.8 magnitude earthquake last November.

The city has also allotted P26 million for 10 provinces and 30 localities ravaged by super typhoons Egay and Falcon. The Provinces of Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Cagayan, Bulacan, Pampanga, Bataan, Zambales, Abra, Apayao and Benguet each received P1 million.

The recipients from Ilocos Norte are Laoag with P750,000; Solsona, P50,000; Bacarra, Pagudpud, Paoay and Piddig with P250,000 each. Binmaley in Pangasinan received P1 million, while in Ilocos Sur, Vigan received P1 million; Cabugao and Caoayan, P500,000 each; and Cervantes, P250,000. Baggao in Cagayan received P250,000, while in Pampanga, Masantol and Minalin each received P1 million; Santo Tomas, P750,000; and Mexico, P500,000. From Bataan, the localities of Abucay, Mariveles and Samal each got P1 million, while Pilar got P500,000. From Abra, the city gave P1 million to Bangued; P500,000 to Bucay; and P250,000 each to Dolores, Manabo, Pilar, Sallapadan and Tayum. From Benguet, the municipalities of Atok, Kabayan and Kapangan each received P250,000.

The financial assistance has been sourced from the Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund – Quick Response Fund of the approved Executive Budget for calendar year 2023.

Meanwhile, Makati continues to share its educational resources with different schools and communities in need in various parts of the country.

“Cities and municipalities around the country should strive to co-evolve in delivering quality education at the local level. It is the best way to surmount the challenges we currently face. It is also perhaps the only way the envisioned inclusivity in education can be fully achieved,” Mayor Abby said.

The mayor said that given the current dismal standing of the country’s education in global assessments, there must be stronger collaboration among local government units for the optimum use of available resources.

Romualdez leads rice, cash aid distribution in Sultan Kudarat

HOUSE leaders spearheaded the distribution of 500,000 kilos of rice to 28,000 residents in Sultan Kudarat, marking the largest free rice distribution in the province.

Assisted by provincial officials, including Governor Pax Mangudadatu and some members of the House of Representatives, Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez distributed rice and cash assistance to the province’s impoverished residents as part of the Marcos administration’s Cash and Rice Distribution Program (CARD).

The launch of the CARD program coincided with the inauguration of the Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair (BPSF) in Sultan Kudarat on February 25.

CARD is a collaborative initiative between the Romualdez-led legislative chamber and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). It was developed in response to the call from President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. for the House to extend rice assistance to poor Filipinos.

For his part, Mangudadatu expressed gratitude to Romualdez, whom he gave the moniker “Mr. Rice,” for the service

caravan and rice distribution initiatives in their province. The governor also affirmed Sultan Kudarat’s support for President Marcos’ Bagong Pilipinas vision, aiming for a peaceful and progressive Philippines. “This is the largest rice distribution in the history of our province…,” Mangudadatu said.

Each of the 18,000 beneficiaries of CARD, identified by the DSWD, received P1,000 in cash along with 25 kilos of rice valued at P1,000. Romualdez thanked the DSWD for their cooperation in the program, which benefits thousands of Filipinos, particularly those from vulnerable sectors.

As part of the BPSF, around 10,000 qualified individuals were also given 10 kilos of rice, or a total of 100,000 kilos, along with P700 worth of food packs. “This is the value we place on rice distribution to the sectors who need it. This includes our senior citizens, PWDs, solo parents, and indigenous peoples (IPs), so they can feel that their government is here to help at all times,” Romualdez said. Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz

PHL manufacturing index better in Feb despite supply shortages

By Cai U. Ordinario

AMID material shortages hounding it, the country’s manufacturing sector continued to improve its performance in the S&P Global Manufacturing Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) in February 2024.

The country’s PMI score improved at a score of 51, an improvement from the 50.9 it posted in January 2024. This marked the sixth consecutive month that the country’s PMI score was above the 50 threshold score.

The improvement in the domestic manufacturing sector’s PMI score was driven by a rise in new orders as demand for goods improved. This also allowed Filipino manufacturers to increase hiring activities and mark the first month of job creation since October 2023.

“The start of the year was somewhat subdued for Filipino manufacturers, amid muted demand. However, in February, growth in new orders gained momentum, which in turn supported a fresh rise in employment and sustained growth in purchasing activity,” Maryam Baluch, Economist at S&P Global Market Intelligence, said.

However, S&P Global Market Intelligence said while the growth in new orders gained momentum, production slowed to near stagnation due to the insufficient supply of raw materials.

The global provider of market intelligence noted that pressures on supply chains persisted, as average lead times for inputs lengthened for the fourth consecutive month in February.

Raw material shortages were also highlighted as a common

factor behind delays, as well as poor weather conditions.

“The sector was held back by the severity of material shortages. Growth in production was only fractional, with firms chipping away at their holdings of inputs and finished items to meet order requirements. These concerns also clouded sentiment, with confidence for the year ahead weakening,” Baluch said.

PSA report

EARLIER , the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said the country’s manufacturing sector’s output slowed to 4.4 percent in 2023 due to double-digit declines in several commodity groups. Based on the Production Index and Net Sales Index, PSA said the factory production in 2023 slowed

from the 15.1 percent average posted in 2022.

Commodities that posted double-digit contractions in 2023 were led by wood, bamboo, cane, rattan articles, and related products with 25 percent; wearing apparel, 24.3 percent; and leather and related products, including footwear, 23.1 percent.

Products that propped up the manufacturing sector’s output last year were commodities such as coke and refined petroleum products, which increased 33.2 percent; electrical equipment, 25.8 percent; and transport equipment, 23.4 percent, among others.

In December 2023, the Volume of Production Index (VoPI) posted a growth of 2 percent, faster than the 1.8 percent posted in November 2023 but slower than the 4.5 percent in December 2022.

‘Hot money’ net outflows in January at $76M–BSP

THE Philippines recorded net outflows in foreign investments registered with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), through authorized agent banks (AABs) in January 2024.

Data from the BSP showed net outflows reached $76 million, from the $1.3-billion gross outflows and the gross inflows of $1.2 billion for the month.

aThe recorded net outflows, BSP said, are lower than the net outflows of $205 million posted in December 2023.

“The $76-million net outflows in January 2024 were a reversal of the net inflows recorded for the same period a year ago ($291 million),” BSP said.

The data showed that regis -

tered investments in January 2024 are higher than the $1 billion recorded in January 2023. This represented an increase of $231 million or 23.1 percent.

However, gross outflows also increased by $599 million or by 84 percent compared to the gross outflows posted in January 2023 at $713 million.

Nonetheless, BSP said the $1.2 billion registered investments for the month are higher by $170 million or by 15.9 percent compared to the $1.1 billion recorded in December 2023.

During the month, BSP said 62.7 percent of registered investments were in Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE)-listed securities $775 million.

“Most of (these) investments (were) made in: banks; holding firms; property; transportation services; and food, beverage and tobacco,” BSP said. The BSP said 37.3 percent of the investments were made in Peso government securities amounting to $460 million; while the remaining, or less than 1 percent, were in other instruments.

Investments for the month mostly came from the United Kingdom, United States, Singapore, Luxembourg, and Hong Kong with a combined share of 85.5 percent.

The data also showed $1.31-billion gross outflows for the month were higher by $40 million or by 3.2 percent compared to the gross

More Boracay businesses speak out vs PetroWind project on water concerns

Arnaldo

Special to the BusinessMirror

MORE stakeholders on Boracay Island are calling for a stop to the Nabas-2 wind farm project of the Yuchengco-owned PetroWind Energy Inc., which is seen affecting the Nabaoy River, the primary water source of the municipality of Malay, including Boracay. The project is located in the Northwest Panay Peninsula Natural Park.

In a statement sent to the B usiness M irror , Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry-Boracay president Michael Sweeney said, “Boracay’s environment and water supply are utmost priorities, and any disruption or interference is of the highest concern. PCCI-Boracay has expressed these concerns to the Government and the DENR (Department of Environment and Natural Resources), and we are hopeful and supportive of a decision that will be in favor of continued protection of Boracay’s environment.”

Boracay Tubi Services Inc. (BTSI), a unit of the Lucio Tan-led MacroAsia Corp., has

also spoken out against the PetroWind project due to the latter’s alleged poor environmental track record, especially when it constructed phase 1. The water utility serves about 40 percent of the water needs of Boracay, or an average of about 2 million cubic meters per year.

‘An epic journey of rehabilitation’

THE Malay Sangguniang Bayan slimly voted to approve on February 23, the Corporate Social Responsibility Program of PetroWind, a move seen as tacit endorsement of the Nabas-2 project, despite massive opposition of local stakeholders and environmentalists. (See, “Malay approves controversial wind project’s CSR plan affecting river,” in the BusinessMirror, February 26, 2024.)

On January 24, PCCI-Boracay sent a letter to provincial and municipal officials, regional directors of DENR Western Visayas and Department of Tourism-Western Visayas, and the regional governor of PCCI Region 6, expressing concern over the “continued construction in the Nabaoy watershed that results in [the] degradation of the water

supply to Broacay Island.” It noted that the Malay government, headed by Mayor Frolibar Bautista, initially denied the project, “but it now appears that this expansion has continued.”

The group added, “Boracay Island has been on an epic journey of rehabilitation, and any change to Boracay water source is a late concern. Additionally, there are stakeholders and residents that will be greatly affected by the construction of the roads and the mud that fills the river. This effect has been very pronounced in the first phases of PetroWind.” The island was closed for six months in 2018 to give way for its rehabilitation, and was later held up as model of sustainability.

Slower river cleanup

FOR his part, BTSI project manager, Engr. Oliver Absalon said, “During phase 1 of the PetroWind project, there were flaws in its execution. They had siltation ponds that were washed out and the silt flowed into the Napaan River, when it rained.” The siltation, according to environmentalists, led to the death of the giant fresh water

outflows recorded for December 2023 at $1.27 billion.

The US remains the top destination of outflows, receiving $600 million or 45.8 percent of total outward remittances. These investments, which refer to inward foreign investments registered with AABs, include PSE-listed securities; Peso-denominated government securities; and Peso time deposits with banks with minimum tenor of 90 days.

The list of investments includes other Peso debt instruments; unit investment trust funds; and other instruments such as Exchange Traded Funds and Philippine Depositary Receipts. Cai U. Ordinario

prawn or ulang, and other wildlife in the river. He added that BTSI’s pumping station along Putol River in Sambiray also had to close down several times due to siltation.

He added that with PetroWind pushing through its construction of an initial three wind turbines under phase 2, “while these are in the municipality of Nabas, the ground work being done has already affected the Nabaoy River. We’ve had to stop operations from say, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., because the river doesn’t clear up quickly unlike before, even during typhoons, the river is clean again within 2 to 4 hours. I’m sure the residents of Nabaoy have observed the same.”

He noted, “So what more when the rest of the turbines will be constructed? The river’s condition will probably get worse. Will PetroWind pay us, the water provider, possible income loss because we are unable to operate and we are unable to supply water to the island?”

Boracay Foundation Inc., the pioneering group of resort owners and businesses on the island first sounded the alarm on the PetroWind Nabas-2 project and its impact on the island’s water’s supply. In response, PetroWind said it was compliant with all government requirements including permits and its environment compliance certificate.

(See, “Boracay Foundation rejects PetroWind Energy wind turbines,” in the BusinessMirror, February 22, 2024.)

OCT teams for ‘Katihan’ exercise conclude training

THE Philippine Army (PA)

on Friday announced that observer controller trainer (OCT) teams for the Combined Arms Training Exercise (CATEX) “Katihan” wrapped up their week-long training facilitated by the Training and Doctrine Command at Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija.

Training took place from February 22 to 29. CATEX “Katihan” is the firstever large-scale exercise that will effectively test the Army’s capability to move, maneuver, and sustain large-scale forces during combat operations, PA spokesperson

career and specialization courses facilitated by Army training schools and centers.

Rex Anthony Naval

WPS row: What’s keeping Manila’s top envoy to the US up at night?

By Malou Talosig-Bartolome

THE country’s top envoy to Washington D.C. is anxious that an incident in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) would trigger the Philippines to invoke the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) with the Americans.

“We are facing today one of the most difficult challenges that we have for our country. From where I am sitting in Washington D.C. we don’t see the light at the end of the tunnel to a certain extent. Never in our lifetime even during World War II did we face such a challenge because this country will not let up on their claim in many of our territorial waters,” Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel “Babe” Romualdez said during a forum with the Consular Corps.

Romualdez disclosed that the Chinese aggression on Philippine military, Coast Guard and fisherfolk in WPS “is very real.”

“All of these skirmishes that is happening there, there can be one major accident and either one of our countries the US or the PHL can invoke the MDT and when we do, a commitment made by the US or the commitment we make will happen and then all hell breaks loose,” he said.

The Philippines and the US have a 52 year old defense treaty that obliges one to come to the aid of another when attacked. American officials have repeatedly clarified that the MDT encompasses an attack in the South China Sea.

The Philippine ambassador said his second cousin, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., would call him sometimes past midnight for him to verify with the Americans about particular incidents in the WPS.

“We want to avoid having to find a situation where we will have to call each other, saying we want to invoke the Mutual Defense Treaty, you have to defend us because the Chinese are already in our shores. We hope it will never happen and believe me that keeps a lot of us awake at night because there were times when I would get a call from the President at 2 in the morning…and he tells me you’ve got to find out this thing happened and so on and so forth,” he said.

Romualdez believes the “real flashpoint” in Southeast Asia is not the Taiwan Strait but in the WPS.

“All of us, all Filipinos should be made aware of on how important it is that we are united in facing this very big challenge to our country,” he said. “We really need to be concerned about—what happens

in our shores and in our territory that is really where the flashpoint is,” Romualdez added.

Romualdez said he is “hoping and praying” that the relations between the Philippines and China would not turn bitter.

The senior diplomat claimed that Manila “wants to avoid” a situation wherein the Philippines would be forced to choose between a country that bullies us or the country that will work with us.

“It’s an old saying that [US President] George Bush Jr. said, in my view the way I see it now, because of what we are facing and the bullying that we are facing is the question that we will ask to other countries—either you’re with us or against us. And that’s something that we want to avoid. It’s a fact of life. When your sovereignty is already being challenged many countries in Europe are facing that now it’s the same question—are you with us or against us,” he added.

Taiwan Strait

HE said many among the intelligence community in the US believe that the US is also doing “everything they can” to stop China from attacking Taiwan, its renegade province.

He cited his Australian counterpart and former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd who believes Chinese President Xi Jinping will not make a move on Taiwan unless “he is absolutely sure that [Xi] can militarily take over Taiwan.”

“So deterrence is the only way to stop them from going into that kind of situation. So we’re hoping that every morning when President Xi

wakes up he’s going to say— today’s not the day,” Romualdez said.

US politics

THE Philippines-China maritime dispute has become “very challenging” from the viewpoint in the Washington D.C. as the US will have another elections in November this year.

“The question now that we all ask is what is going to happen in November this year in Washington D.C.?” Romualdez said.

He said good thing he maintained contacts with US Ambassador Robert O’Brien, former national security adviser during the Trump administration. Romualdez was also the Philippine ambassador to the US during the tenure of former president Donald Trump.

“[O’Brien], one of the close advisers of president Trump, has indicated that most likely if President Trump is lucky to get back to the White House, he will not change his policy towards the Indo-Pacific region,” he said.

He stressed that maintaining friends from both the Democrats and Republican parties is important and he made sure that they know that the Philippines continue to “stand by our number one ally and that we will continue to work with them on many things that is good for both our countries.”

“It is important that the message must be clear—that if we do not help each other it can indeed spell the end of the world.  Why do I say it is the end of the world? We all know what the weapons of mass destruction are today.  It is not a joke anymore. World War II was a different story but if we have a World War III, we know that it is the end of the world. Diplomacy is still the best option to pursue rather than engage in any conflict,” he emphasized.

PHL, Japan and India trilateral alliance pushed as China rises

ATRILATERAL partnership among Asia’s most vibrant democracies and maritime states—India, the Philippines and Japan—is needed to counter China’s growing expansionism and the uncertainty that be brought by the return of ex-US President Donald Trump to the White House, academicians and foreign policy analysts said.

The Philippines has two active trilateral arrangements—first with Indonesia and Malaysia to counter piracy and sea terrorism in the common borders, and another one with the United States and Japan on regional peace and stability.

“The one that binds us [the Philippines, India and Japan] together is that we all face a common security challenge—an aggressive, expansive and revisionist China,” Dr. Renato De Castro, trustee and program convenor of Manila-based think-tank Stratbase ADR, said.

Like the Philippines, Japan and India have bilateral territorial disputes. Japan and China both claim the uninhabited Senkaku Island (Chinese name: Diaoyu Islands), located northeast of Taiwan. Indian and Chinese troops clashed in 2020 along the Himalayas, the longest disputed border in the world

Hiroyuki Akita, a commentator at Nikkei Asia, said Japan is trying to build a “horizontal and more minilateral security” alliance in the region as it prepares for the possibility of the return of US President Donald Trump to the White House.

Akita called the return of Trump as a “new severe event.”

He said based on the latest poll in the US, the American electorate prefers to vote Trump over incumbent President Joseph Biden, worried that Biden is already too old to serve a second term.

If Trump wins the presidency, Akita sees two scenarios that could affect US engagement in Asia. First, he believes, Trump will adopt a softer stance on Russian President Vladimir Putin, which may ease tension in Europe, but will later on be detrimental to long-term as it would give Putin chance to expand more. Second, President Trump, on one hand, will adopt a tougher approach on China.

“So, more military tension in South China Sea or Taiwan Strait, or weakening or shaping US alliance in the region,” Akita explained.

These scenarios complicate the already complex security environment in Europe with the war between Russia and Ukraine. The US, as member

of NATO, is also actively helping the Ukrainians defeat Russia.

“Unfortunately, the US can only fight one major war,” Akita said. “There is already one war in Europe and then there is also conflict in the Middle Eat. So this is very, very bad. If there were to be a war in the South China Sea or Taiwan Strait, the US must either have to abandon Europe and concentrate on Asia, or US will not be able to deter.”  Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Ma.

Theresa Lazaro welcomed the idea of the Philippines, India and Japan forming a trilateral coalition.

“Trilateral cooperation is an important feature with the present global order, characterized by the duplicity of actors. In this game, increased attention in recent past as more states up for this arrangement driven by a congruent goals and common concerns such as economic and security domains,” Lazaro said. She suggested that the trilateral cooperation start with Track 2 level or among academicians, just like the forum started by Stratbase ADR Friday.

Dr. Jagannath Panda, fellow at the Stockholm Center for South Asian and Indo-Pacific Affairs, said the trilateral cooperation could involve with more practical solutions, such as information sharing on Chinese maritime activities.

“A time has come that we should also talk about the oil exploration in the South China Sea,” Panda said, adding that Vietnam be included in the minilateral coalition.

He said there is also a need for the three countries to collaborate to jointly protect submarine cables that connect 95 percent of international data around the world.

Indian Ambassador Shambhu Kumaran suggested that the three countries can work hand in hand to “expand constituency for supply resiliency, for building skills relevant to the new industry of digital economy, post-Internet age, building better infrastructure that is ecologically sustainable and financially viable, and providing an alternate model to some of the infrastructure projects.”

“I think definitely a laser line focus on critical developmental areas, such as health, agriculture, environment, climate change could be other areas valid for our trilateral relations.

“The test for us as we walk the talk would be to develop small, workable projects that each of us can build and create the public opinion that would support the convergence of our ideas,” Ambassador Kumaran said.

Malou Talosig-Bartolome

PBBM signs measure giving benefits to octogenarians and nonagenarians

Bong Go lauds signing of expanded centenarians law; calls for continuing support for senior citizens welfare

Senator Christopher “Bong”

Go lauded the signing into law of republic act no. 11982, or the amendments to the Centenarian a ct. t he measure, signed by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. on February 26, expands the benefits for elderly Filipinos.

t he law, which Go is a co-author and co-sponsor, now includes cash gifts for Filipinos aged 80, 85, 90, and 95, amounting to P10,000 each, in addition to the existing P100,000 cash gift for centenarians.

Go, who is a member of the Senate Committee on Social Justice, emphasized the government’s commitment to recognizing and rewarding the contributions of senior citizens to Philippine society. t his law is a testament to our unwavering respect and gratitude for the wisdom, resilience, and contributions of our elderly population. It’s more than just financial assistance but also a tribute to their enduring spirit and a celebration of their milestones,” Go remarked.

t he senator further highlighted how the amendments aim to give seniors more opportunities to enjoy their golden years with dignity and joy.

“Nasa kultura na nating mga Pilipino na alagaan ang ating mga nakatatanda. Dapat natin silang suportahan at bigyan ng pagkilala. Habang kaya pang pakinabangan at ma-enjoy ng senior citizen ang cash gift, ibigay

na natin sa kanila,” added Go.

Go also took the opportunity to express gratitude to President Marcos for signing the law and Senator Imee Marcos, who was its principal sponsor.

“ t his is a collaborative victory for all Filipinos, showcasing our collective effort to care for the elders in our communities. together, we are making significant strides in improving the welfare of our senior citizens,” he said.

In line with the national Commission of Senior Citizens (nCSC) remarks, the law aims to acknowledge the longevity of Filipinos living healthy and active lifestyles, expanding the benefits to include those reaching significant milestones before becoming centenarians.

Go has been a staunch advocate of the welfare of senior citizens. Previously, he also co-authored ra 11916, an act Increasing the Social Pension of Indigent Senior Citizens, which amended ra 7432, the first Senior Citizens act.

t his amendment is a step forward in ensuring a better quality of life for our senior citizens. We must provide them with the necessary support to live comfortably,” Go said. “Nandiyan na ang batas. Dapat maimplementa ito ng maayos para mapakinabangan ng taumbayan lalo na ng mga matatanda na sakop ng batas na ito. Ibigay dapat ang nararapat sa kanila at huwag patagalin pa,” he stressed.

By Wilnard Bacelonia & Anna Leah Gonzales

MANILA—President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday signed into law Republic Act (RA) 11981, or the Tatak Pinoy (Proudly Filipino) Act, and RA 11982, granting benefits to octogenarians and nonagenarians.

today, it’s my honor to sign into law two bills which not only honor two key sectors of society, but mandate measures that protect their rights and promote their development,” Marcos said in his speech during the signing of the two bills at Malacañan Palace’s Ceremonial Hall.

each of these laws encapsulates the merits that the Bagong Pilipinas uphold toward building a strong nation. For example, the tatak Pinoy act is about investing in Filipino competence and talent. t hat genius and gift must be supported, not by exhortation alone but by true, tangible support,” he added.

t he tatak Pinoy (Proudly Filipino) act aims to strengthen the partnership between the government and the private sector towards promoting Philippine goods and services by making these increasingly diversified and globally competitive.

Marcos said tatak Pinoy gives incentives to local products that deserve to carry the “Made in the Philippines” trademark, showing the creativity and skills of the Filipino worker.

“It is about creating products and services of the highest quality, be -

cause tatak Pinoy is also about excellence, and as a seal of great workmanship, it must only be applied to those that meet this high standard. a s such, we shall give preference and priority to our products,” he said.

ra 11982 or the a mendments to the Centenarians act of 2016, meanwhile grants monetary benefits to octogenarians and nonagenarians.

t hrough the expanded Centenarian a ct, senior citizens aged 80, 85, 90 and 95, whether residing in the Philippines or abroad, will receive P10,000 cash incentive every age milestone and will still receive P100,000 upon reaching 100 years old.

Marcos said the expansion of the coverage of the Centenarians act is a homage to the Filipino trait of compassion, and in the Philippine culture, this shows more kindness and compassion to the elderly.

“But they deserve more than cash in an envelope. What they should get is a support infrastructure that every society owes to its greying population. t here were already close to 10 million seniors two years ago … But as this demographic enlarges, the societal facilities that attend to

Beyond entitlements, seniors want meaningful work

MBy Nick Tayag

When

Freebies, privileges, entitlements. During Christmas and election seasons, the scheduled arrival of the Mayor and his candidates would be the talk of the village. t he venue would be brimming over

with seniors, even those who usually wouldn’t be seen venturing out on ordinary days. t he reason? Giveaways of cash and loot bags! When I scan the faces of my fellow seniors sitting beside me during meetings, I cannot believe many of them are ex-men and ex-women: ex-engineers, ex-accountants, exseamen and oFWs, ex-teachers, and other ex-professionals. Maybe some of them used to have charge of entire departments, barking orders to subordinates. Why have they been reduced to a motley of waiting, craving, salivating persons, who have “freebies” and “handouts” on top of their minds? I’m afraid we are creating a culture of “outstretched hands” out of aging. It seems that the prevailing attitude is seniors should be seen not heard. Let them stay in one corner, throw some freebies their way to keep them quiet and contented. a nd of course, sensing that senior citizens can be a sizeable voters’ block, politicians are quick to take the cue and ride on it. at home, they are not regarded any better. It’s alright for the family to care for their elders. However, when others infantilize an aging parent or treat an old relative as a child, that’s another thing. It begins with the language family members use.

In many households adult children bawl out their elderly parents like a children for being forgetful or clumsy. When they are not allowed to handle their physical tasks and errands even when they have no

money that can be allocated for other urgent national concerns —from improving education and healthcare to bolstering our national security to preserving our environment and dealing with climate change.

trouble doing them themselves, it only serves to reinforce their sense of worthlessness and negative selfperception.

Let’s make it perfectly clear. a senior citizen is not a child in a mature adult body.

While I agree that protecting and caring for the well-being of senior citizens is a major obligation of the national government, we should reconsider the notion of favoring people just because they’re older.

to my fellow the seniors who keep wanting more and more cash entitlements from the government, don’t forget that there’s no such thing as a free lunch. Who will pay for all the “amelioration” cash we get? It creates a budget process that automatically requires raising taxes on the young and non-senior workers and employees to maintain or increase benefits for the elderly. t he more we take now, the more they’ll pay. t he burden is passed on to the future.

We also should realize that spending too much on the elderly will inevitably take away some of the

tatak Pinoy (Proudly Filipino) Act, and r A 11982, granting benefits to octogenarians and nonagenarians at Malacañan Palace’s Ceremonial Hall on Monday, February 26, 2024. through the expanded Centenarian Act, senior citizens aged 80, 85, 90 and 95, whether residing in the Philippines or abroad, will receive P10,000 cash incentive every age milestone and will still receive P100,000 upon reaching 100 years old.

them should be expanded as well,” Marcos said.

Honoring the elderly Senator S believe that the e xpanded Centenarians act shall have a huge impact on the lives of elderly Filipinos.

“It is a big thing for them especially for their expenses in medicine, vitamins, supplement, food, among others,” Senator r amon r evilla Jr., who authored the law, said in a statement.

r evilla explained the new law intends to provide cash benefits for Filipino octogenarians and nonagenarians “so that they would get to enjoy it more.”

He recalled filing the measure during the start of the 18th Congress in 2019 but failed to be passed into law.

t he lawmaker assured seniors

to turn their hobbies into profitable businesses or even a non-profit endeavor.

at the risk of appearing cruel and heartless, I want to broach out a thought that may run counter to the trend of spoiling our senior citizens. Let’s stop regarding senior citizens as “needy.” not all seniors want to depend only on

pensions and cash handouts.

Here’s something that often gets overlooked by our legislators. Many seniors want to work beyond retirement age. Some miss the routine of having a job. Some long for the mental stimulation of working. others want to explore career interests that they were too busy to pursue previously. a nd, of course, many seniors simply need to earn extra money for their future medical needs.

So let’s find ways to “un-retire” them. Instead of more entitlements, let’s create laws that give idle seniors opportunities and incentives to work and be productive, even as part-timers. Instead of cash handouts, give them interest-free loans

Maybe LGUs and private venture funders can invest in cottage industries to be managed and staffed by senior citizens engaged in making senior-friendly products such as wooden or aluminum canes, rocking chairs and boards for chess and table games designed for seniors. Why not get them to run neighborhood convenience stores for the needs of the elderly and the vulnerable or an online “food on wheels” service catering to elderly patrons who can’t leave home? Why waste a generation of older people with wisdom and experience, specialized knowledge, and unparalleled ability to teach, coach, and mentor and counsel who could pair with young people to help start-up organizations grow and thrive. Why not open windows of opportunities for them to work in their professional fields without having to commit to full-time jobs? By selling their skills and sharing their knowledge on a contract basis, they can keep working while enjoying more freedom and flexibility.

I can see flexible part-time jobs for them: independent or drivers and tour guides to take domestic and foreign visitors from place to place. Why not work as a freelance courier or delivery driver to take food, packages, or other goods from restaurants, stores, or warehouses to the local people who ordered them? t hey can also work as transcriptionists, or do technical manuals or brochures as subject matter experts.

Here’s one good idea I read in a

ScreenShot from rt Vm

that he will continue to push for the expansion of the 20 percent discount of senior citizens and exemption from value-added tax to include supplements, vitamins, herbal products, formulated milk, among others.

revilla said he is also proposing to bring the age down to 56 years old to be considered as a senior citizen.

Meanwhile, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian also lauded the signing into law of the e xpanded Centenarians act, saying “this provides recognition of the valuable contribution to society made by our elderlies.”

t he enactment of the measure is a tangible expression of our commitment to enhancing the well-being of our senior citizens and reflects our collective dedication to building a society that honors and supports every generation,” Gatchalian said in a separate statement. PNA

newspaper sometime ago: “Senior citizens urged to get involved in local governance.” Instead of just waiting for more senior discounts freebies and giveaways, senior citizens must take a more proactive role in local development and governance. t hey can propose projects, programs, and activities not just for seniors but also for all residents that can be included in the development plans and eventually funded through the mandatory one percent allocation in the budgets of LGUs.

But my personal vision of meaningful work for senior citizens is to get them actively engaged in the promising Green economy.

If we can have cash for work for the rehabilitation of calamity hit areas, why can’t we adopt the same scheme and recruit seniors for rewarding and fulfilling jobs under a “Cash for Green Work Program”?

With time in their hands, as well as their valuable experience and emotional maturity, senior citizens are “ripe” for recruitment to be ecowarriors, not only as climate action advocates but also actively involved in profitable green ventures such as urban farming, the business of recycling and upcycling waste materials, setting up and maintaining solar energy farms or wind farms, guarding and monitoring our waterways from trash and pollutants as well as other pro-environmental activities to help our country attain a more sustainable future.

What a lasting meaningful legacy to leave to the next generation!

Let’s liberate today’s seniors from infantilism and “pamperism.” time to change the “outstretched hand” narrative and redefine what it means to be retired—by enabling them to continue to work.

President Ferdinand r. Marcos Jr. signs into law republic Act 11981, or the

Editor: Mike Policarpio

EXCEPTIONAL achievements of outstanding Filipinos who studied in the “Land Down Under” were highlighted at the annual Australia Alumni Excellence Awards.

“Our Australia Global Alumni community is an important part of the Australia-Philippines ‘Strategic Partnership,’” said Chargé d’Affaires Dr. Moya Collett of the Embassy of Australia. “This year’s [batch of] awardees are impressive Filipinos who have been using their Australian education, expertise, experience, and networks to contribute enormously to the Philippines.”

The following alumni were awarded in the event:

Dr. Dexter de la Cruz (Ph.D in Marine Biology, Southern Cross University, 2019) was awarded as “Alumnus of the Year” for leading the development of groundbreaking coral-reef restoration techniques used in the Philippines and Australia that have helped improve climate-change resilience. His local experiments and

THE Department of Education (DepEd) recently recognized 173 partner-organizations, including nonprofit, volunteer-powered group “I am MAD (Making A Difference)” Volunteers Inc. for their support and intervention in the country’s basic education under its “MATATAG” Agenda on February 20.

The department awarded I am MAD as one of the agency’s outstanding civil society organization partners during the national DepEd Partners’ Appreciation and Recognition ceremony.

Chief Executive Volunteer Maco Ravanzo and Chief of Volunteer Programs and Communication of I am MAD Wino Dela Cruz accepted the award on behalf of the nonprofit organization from Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Z. Duterte.

PROVIDING a wider range of business opportunities to aspiring culinarians and restaurateurs, the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde’s (DLS-CSB) School of Hotel, Restaurant, and Institution Management (SHRIM) has recently opened its “Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts Management (BS-CAM)” program.

Ideal for learners who aspire to be knowledgeable from the cuisine to the entrepreneurial aspects, the undergrad program equips them not only with the fundamentals and techniques of food preparation, but also sharpens their management and critical-thinking skills to become industry leaders and changemakers.

Graduates are trained for key positions such as Food and Beverage (F&B) Manager and Restaurant Manager, while establishing their respective businesses and brands as restaurateurs and caterers.

They may likewise pursue careers as chef de partie , executive chef, pastry chef, sous chef, research and development chef, skilled butcher who specializes in delicatessen, or a chocolatier who advocates for Filipino “bean-to-bar” production.

They may also serve as a personal chef and food consultant, as well as delve into allied fields such as food photographer and social media man -

studies assisted in the restoration of degraded reef areas, and have since been used in the Great Barrier Reef. He is a recipient of the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research’s prestigious John Allwright Fellowship.

Dr. Ma. Asuncion Beltran (Masters in Tropical Veterinary Science, James Cook University, 2003) was recognized with an “Excellence in Innovation” award for developing innovative agricultural technologies and practices that help boost food security in the Philippines. She introduced technologies to improve the viability of backyard poultry as a source of livelihood among farmers across the Philippines.

Abigail Tan (Graduate Diploma in Health Promotion, Deakin University, 2020) received the

“Young Achiever” award for her work at increasing health-seeking behaviors and strengthening health governance at the local level across the Philippines. She led the “Optimising Health Literacy and Access to Health Services” process in the country, in partnership with the Department of Health’s Health Promotion Bureau.

Meanwhile, seven alumni were recognized with Special Citations for outstanding contributions in several fields. Alumni network: “Medal of Valor” awardee Col. Ariel Querubin (ret.); Culture and arts: Director-General Jeremy Barns of the National Museum of the Philippines; Community development: entrepreneurs Emmanuel and Mary Grace Belviz;

The award cited “I am MAD for its unwavering commitment, exceptional collaboration and invaluable contribution in support of the MATATAG Agenda for the DepEd Basic Education Development Plan, helping [the department] fulfill its mandate in pro -

ager with focus on the food industry. For a more holistic approach, Benilde SHRIM consults with the School of Management and Information Technology (SMIT) to develop business courses specially curated for BS-CAM. These offerings provide students with entrepreneurial proficiencies and comprehensive understanding of the diverse management systems, so that they can efficiently direct service providers and institutional units, or address organizational challenges by proposing strategies, maximizing opportunities, and implementing rational decisions.

Guided by the principles, they are honed to create new business models adata and trends to be able to fill-in market gaps. They are encouraged to research, plan, and conceptualize creative ideas to innovate for product development and process improvement with the use of evidence-based practices and the latest technological advancements.

The BS-CAM program arms them with nutrition-based and specialized culinary skills, as well as familiarization and mastery of science-based techniques to prepare high-quality dishes as well as expertly identify, fabricate, and utilize culinary products to effectively run operations and productions, while gaining global

I

AM MAD Volunteers Inc.’s Maco Ravanzo and Wino Dela Cruz receive their award from Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte (left) with Usec. Michael Poa (right).

viding quality basic education to all learners.”

“This recognition from DepEd is a testament to our never-ending passion to make a difference in the lives of our learners,” Ravanzo expressed. He also reflected on the challenges of establishing

Health: Pediatric Oncologist Dr. Amy Dy; Education: Dr. Dionisia Rola; Environmental conservation: Dr. Jayson Ibanez; and Gender equality, disability, and social inclusion: Imari Roble-Cesario.

Since the 1950s, thousands of Filipinos have studied in Australia and now form part of the dynamic Australia Global Alumni community in the Philippines, which includes senior Philippine government officials, scientists and esteemed members of the academe, as well as business and industry leaders. Australia Global Alumni in the Philippines are invited to register and update their contact information via australiaawardsphilippines.org/alumni.

the organization’s identity, and proving its intentions in the past, contrasting it with its current standing with established institutions in the field of education and advocacy.

I am MAD has been an active civil-society partner of DepEd for more than a decade now, as it continuously supplements values formation activities through its main program “MAD Camp,” and promotes volunteerism as a lifestyle among the Filipino youth through “MAD Talks.”

The group is calling for volunteers, and they can register via bit.ly/MADcamp2024reg. It is also open for donations through: bit.ly/ bidadonate . For updates, partnerships, and volunteer opportunities, follow and message I am MAD on Facebook, or send an email to iammadph@gmail.com.

CULINARY Arts Management students in action

competitive advantages.

Learners are likewise motivated to advocate and globalize regional Filipino food heritage through the use of traditional cooking methods and ingredients. With an awareness of various international cuisines with a focus on historical and cultural identities, they are also expected to exhibit adeptness in communication skills, protocols, and traditions to deal with a diverse environment.

PHILIPPINE Association of State Universities and Colleges president Tirso Ronquillo (from left), Assistant Secretary Leonila Baluyut of the Department of Trade and Industry, Assistant Secretary Napoleon Juanillo of the Department of Science and Technology, Executive Director Karol Mark Yee of the Second Congressional Education Commission, Vice Rector for Academic Affairs Cheryl Peralta from the University of Santo Tomas, Deputy Assistant Administrator for East Asia and the Pacific Sara Borodin and Mission Director Ryan Washburn of USAID, Executive Director Cinderella Benitez-Jaro of the Commission on Higher Education, Director-General Rowel Barba of the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines, and Chief of Party Richard Abendan of UPSKILL.

THE United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has launched an initiative that will help Philippine higher education become more globally competitive.

On February 20, the five-year, P1.6-billion ($30 million) USPhilippines Partnership for Skills, Innovation, and Lifelong Learning (UPSKILL) program will boost innovation, labor force development, and entrepreneurship in colleges and universities.

US president Joseph Biden and President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. jointly announced the initiative during the latter’s visit to the White House in May 2023.

UPSKILL will gather US universities, Philippine government agencies engaged in human capital development, and private-sector partners to promote innovation and entrepreneurship in higher education institutions through faculty and staff training, curriculum improvements, while increasing community outreach and technology transfer.

These efforts will improve qualifications and career prospects of Filipino higher education graduates to continuously meet evolving labor force needs, while enhancing linkages between US and Philippine universities.

The program is implemented by RTI International through a consortium of US universities, which includes Arizona State University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University, with Philippine part -

ners such as Edukasyon.ph and the Philippine Business for Education.

“The challenges and opportunities that young people face today in the work place make college training and education critical for their future success,” USAID’s deputy assistant administrator for East Asia and the Pacific Sara Borodin said during UPSKILL’s launch at the University of Santo Tomas. “Through this new program, the US government reaffirms its commitment to working with our Filipino partners in transforming the higher education sector.”

Officials from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the Second Congressional Education Commission, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Trade and Industry, National Economic and Development Authority, and the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines, as well as representatives from several Philippine universities, attended the program launch.

“With this partnership with USAID, the Commission on Higher Education will provide unique opportunities for our colleges and universities to continuously innovate, in response to the aspirations of the Philippines, and specifically that of our students,” said Executive Director Cinderella Filipina Benitez-Jaro of CHED.

“Together, we will demonstrate the compelling value of internationally recognized training, cooperative research, and lifelong learning modalities being offered by Philippine higher education.”

Tesda teams up with CMIP to equip future Camanava HVAC training hub

By Roderick L. Abad

WITH the increasing demand for workers in the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) sector, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda)National Capital Region has partnered with leading electrical-appliance manufacturer Concepcion Midea Inc. Philippines (CMIP) to raise the quality of training for related skilled professionals.

candidates.

It will run for 10 trimesters,

Tesda Director-General Suharto T. Mangudadatu lauded the alliance: “[Our agency] is dedicated to providing accessible and quality skills training for all Filipinos. With the help of CMIP, we can offer more high-quality technical education for HVAC repair and installation with the integration of Internet of Things technology.”

Under their partnership agreement, CMIP will provide the latest equipment and technology to be used by trainees of Domestic Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Servicing National Certificate II, as well as Commercial Air Conditioning Installation and Servicing Training NC III.

These will be housed in the Tesda-Midea Training Hub that

will soon be located within the premises of the Tesda-Navotas Vocational Training and Assessment Institute—the agency’s training center in the region of Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, and Valenzuela, or Camanava.

The Tesda chief expressed his appreciation to CMIP, and cited the significance of their support in the development of a qualified and competent HVAC labor force.

“I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to CMIP for their partnership and commitment to advancing skills development in the Philippines,” Mangudadatu said. “Together, I am confident that we can empower more individuals and build successful careers in the HVAC industry.”

The director-general added that Tesda has been steadfast in providing relevant, accessible, high-quality, and efficient technical education and skills training programs to support the middle-level manpower development goals and priorities set in the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028.

On the other hand, CMIP is a leader in the HVAC industry, and among the largest manufacturers of appliances in the country.

LIGHT AND SOUND SPECTACLE

‘GLOrIOUS TAINAN’ HOSTS 2024 TAIwAN LANTErN FESTIvAL

Recently, I’ve had the good fortune of personally witnessing this year’s edition of the taiwan lantern Festival as part of a familiarization tour hosted by the taiwan tourism Administration.

Seamlessly blending traditional and modern elements, the 35th edition of the Taiwan Lantern Festival this year features two major exhibition areas, the “High-Speed Rail Lantern Area” and the “Anping Lantern Area.” The “High Speed Rail Lantern Area” comprises seven large exhibition zones around the high-speed rail station, displaying various themed lantern areas in addition to the main lantern “Dragon Comes to Taiwan.”

The “Anping Lantern Area” is located in Lin Mo Niang Park, Anping Recreational Wharf, and along the Anping Canal, with the themes “Tainan 400” and “River of Light History.”

carbon 60, all embodying the lantern festival’s commitment to sustainable development.

experience. A lot of history and a lot of progress are very much evident here.

The lantern festival is obviously a major cause for celebration in Taiwan. In Chinese communities, it is celebrated on the 15th day of the lunar calendar and is also known as “Little New Year.” During the festival, various celebrations of different types and scales are held throughout Taiwan. Residents traditionally set off fireworks, carry lanterns and visit temples to appreciate festive lantern displays. Lanterns symbolize national peace and prosperity and foster a scene of unity and joy. Red lanterns of course, are known to be synonymous with good fortune.

SURF’S UP

This year’s main lantern, “Dragon Comes to Taiwan,” is designed and produced by renowned artist Peng Li-chen. Inspired by the dragon sculptures in front of the Daitian Temple in Tainan, the main lantern has a dragon-shaped main body that reaches a height of 18 meters, and a total height of 22 meters including the base.

Exuding a majestic aura, the magnificent luminescent lantern combines figurative and abstract elements. Apart from its overall rotational motion, the left and right forearms of the dragon also incorporate electromechanical control components, exceeding the movement limitations of previous main lanterns.

Incidentally, Tainan is globally renowned for its solar energy photovoltaic industry. Naturally, this year’s main lantern incorporates solar energy materials such as EVA and sustainable green elements like

Siargao to host PHL largest surfing tilt, tourism expected to spike

CDumadag pointed out that over a decade the island of Siargao has transformed from being known as a surfing destination with its world-class surf break known to many as Cloud 9 to one of the world’s top island destinations in the world.

In 2023, Siargao was named among Asia’s Top islands destination by Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2023, reprising the same accolade it gained in 2021 and 2018.

“With all the recognitions, Siargao Island has gained a huge foothold as one of our top tourist destinations, and with this year’s international surfing event leveling higher than the previous competitions, we will surely have more tourists in the island,” said Dumadag.

Surigao del Norte 1st District Representative Francisco Jose “Bingo” Matugas II said that they are now doing the preparation to host the QS 5000 as unlike the previous year’s hosting the event at QS 3000, the organizers are expecting professional surfers with big names from all over the world to participate in the event.

“We have started making our preparations since January, months ahead than what we

In addition to the domestic lantern artworks, participating countries from around the world are also invited to join the festivities. Among this year’s international exhibitors include representatives from Japanese counties and companies (Hokkaido, Akita, Miyagi, Nagoya, Yamaguchi, Tottori, Kagawa, Kochi, Tobu Railway Company, Kintetsu Corporation), Seoul in South Korea, St. Kitts and Nevis in the Caribbean, Belize, and Indonesia.

I’m not sure if the Philippines was invited to participate as an exhibitor in the Lantern Festival (both in the past and this year) but the presence of international media including the Philippines during the festival proper and the press conference that preceded it is obviously indicative of Taiwan’s desire to foster inclusivity and perhaps even diversity.

Themed “Making Friends with the

World,” the International Inclusive Exhibition Area for these participants, themed “Making Friends with the World,” is intended to promote Taiwan’s beauty to the world.

To underscore Taiwan’s unique geographical features while at the same time connecting ecology to tourist attractions, the themed lantern combine diverse lantern media materials and incorporates nakedeye 3D technology for the first time.

The central location features a Taiwan-shaped design constructed by an illumination cube, connecting to the 360-degree electronic screen at the top and a colorful light display, welcoming visitors from all over. The animation effects, coupled with a diverse lantern display and international invited lanterns, realize the concept of international friendship.

Also this year, the Tourism Bureau collaborates with Taiwan Railways Administration on the themed painted train “SIRAYA.” Designed by Professor Akibo, the train features

used to do in the previous international competitions, according to WSL in every tournament they only choose five countries for the QS 5000, so it’s an honor for Siargao to be chosen to host the event, they even said to expect like the top 20 to 50 best surfers in the world to compete in Siargao,” said Matugas.

Matugas pointed out that they hope to gain more support in terms of sponsors for the event to help augment the expenses in hosting the event.

“With bigger names in the surfing world and with more at stake we are expecting more sponsors and a bigger crowd in the Siargao. We are trying to make this an event worthy for our visitors to witness and something we would be proud of,” said Matugas.

Gerry Degan who has been the event director of the competition in Siargao for the past 18 years expressed that he is happy that the island will finally host the level of surfing

a unique touch with digital 3D knitting technology, adorned with symbols like I LOVE TAIWAN, SIRAYA, smiling faces, hearts, and the radiant patterns representing the brilliance of the Taiwan Lantern Festival. The train showcases distinctive landmarks from six southern national scenic areas such as Siraya, Yunlin and Chiayi, Maulin, Alishan, Penghu, and Dashu Bay.

In promoting Taiwan’s unique traditional folk festivals, the Tourism Administration has continuously innovated and improved the Taiwan Lantern Festival over 35 years. It has been recognized by Discovery as one of the “World’s Best Festivals” and praised by international media as “a Disneyland without roller coasters” and based on what I’ve seen, this year’s edition pretty much lives up to that hype. To welcome international visitors during this event, international independent travelers who visit the 2024 Taiwan Lantern Festival until March

event after years of lobbying.

“This has been a long time coming, we’ve seen our local surfers rise to the occasion, and several of them did make it beyond Siargao shores and represented the country in various competitions. We do expect big names in the international surfing scene and I’m sure our local Siargao surfers will give it their best, I’m sure it’s going to be quite a show,” said Degan.

One of the local surfers from Siargao who gained recognition in the international surfing scene is John Mark “Marama” Tokong who represented the Philippines several times and holds the highest ranking in the Philippines at number-8 with most number of wins in his home surf of Siargao.

Tokong is expected to defend his championship title after winning in Cloud 9, Siargao during the WSL QS 3000 International Surfing Cup in 2023.

Bigger events, more tourists

S IARGAO Island is part of Surigao del Norte province in Caraga Region, the island comprises nine municipalities with General Luna as the surfing hub where the world class surf break of Cloud 9 is found.

“The island is not just a mere tourism area with one destination as almost all the nine towns in the island are now a tourist destination on its own offering their own treat for tourist to enjoy, catering tourists who are seeking for the best beach experience, island hopping adventure, crystal clear turquoise waters, to an emerson with the amazing biodiversity the island has to offer,” said Dumadag. Siargao is also the host to several international events such as the International Dragon Boat competition in the town of Dapa, the International Game Fishing in the town of Pilar, and other big annual events and festivities.

10 will receive a complimentary 2024 Year of the Dragon lantern, a limitededition souvenir, and an event ticket (valid for watching the main lantern area performance from February 25 to March 9) upon presentation of their passports or relevant entry proofs at the lantern festival’s on-site redemption center. Visitors are also welcome to take a ride on the SIRAYA train to Tainan for the 2024 Taiwan Lantern Festival and explore the unique culture and warmth of Southern Taiwan. I personally had a grand time here and am now looking forward to returning at succeeding editions of then Taiwan Lantern Festival in the very near future, hopefully with a stronger presence from the Philippines in the International Inclusive Exhibition Area.

For more information about the event, please visit the official website of the “2024 Taiwan Lantern Festival”: https://2024taiwanlantern festival.org/.

Data from DOT Caraga stated that Siargao has gained 323.56 percent growth in tourist arrivals in 2023 compared to 2022, with a total of 529,822 tourist arrivals compared to 125,088 tourists who visited the island a year before.

“While we welcome the increase in tourist arrivals, the bulk of the visitors we have for Siargao came from those in the different parts of Mindanao and in our own region of Caraga as we had 476,074 while the foreign visitors, we had numbered at 53,748. Yet this is the biggest foreign tourist arrival recorded with a 511.89 percent increase compared to 8,784 in 2022,” said Dumadag.

Dumadag added that the numbers indicate a huge number of tourists from Mindanao are exploring and travelling more than even before the pandemic.

“The tourist arrivals in Siargao for 2023 have already surpassed what we had before the pandemic. We only had 257,900 recorded guests in the island in 2019,” she added.

Tourism receipts are estimated to have reached a total of P17.304 billion, representing the revenue generated from various tourism-related activities and services in the region.

In a report, DOT Caraga attributed the increase of tourist in the island to an increased number of flights and sea trips to the island, and nearby airports in Surigao and Butuan; the increase in the number of accommodation establishments with better cheaper alternative accommodations; and the close coordination with LGUs which enabled prompt collection and submission of data generated from both accredited and nonaccredited accommodation establishments.

Lighting ceremony of the 35th taiwan Lantern Festival in tainan

DEFEn D ing C h AMP. A file photo of John Mark tokong gives his best at the renowned Cloud 9 break giving much-needed points to push his win during the finals of the 2019 25th Siargao Cloud 9 international Surfing Cup in general Luna, Surigao del norte.

MORning SURF. While the sunrise breaks across the horizon, a foreign surfer walks across the shallow tidal flats while holding a long surfboard while others wait on a tourist boat that will bring them to a surf break in general Luna.

A8 Saturday, March 2, 2024

• Editor: Gerard S. Ramos

IN line with its inaugural launch in the local market, gifting and rewards provider Pluxee Philippines will highlight the importance of recognizing the Filipino workforce through innovative, easy to use, high value rewards and benefits.

“As a trusted partner of corporate clients for over two decades, we are here to amplify the impact of gifting and level up their people’s engagement initiatives,” said Sharon Velasco, marketing director of Pluxee Philippines, in an e-mail interview with BUSINESSMIRROR

BusinessMirror

With its “Live Joyful” campaign on high gear, Velasco said said Pluxee can set an example on how companies can empower their teams to create memorable experiences. She added Pluxee present solutions tailored to their needs, ease of use, and the

Velasco. As a digital-first brand, Velasco said investing in technology is a vital part of a digital strategy, leveraging its global expertise to

continue improving its products and services.  Furthermore, the company’s long-term relationships with its corporate clients and merchants have given Pluxee a wealth of

How to make your content go viral

SOME of my friends and work contacts are social-media managers. Most of their complaints about work are related to how their superiors view going viral online. There is much pressure for the things they post to become viral when they are just product launches or personality-driven events and developments.

Some brands believe that KOLs (key opinion leaders) and influencers are key to being viral and they can certainly help but in my opinion, based on years of being in this industry, it takes more than a few famous and familiar faces to achieve trending status online.

Brands and individuals who want to become viral online need to make content that’s either relatable or aspirational, use keywords in their captions, hashtags and descriptions, and post regularly and consistently. Of course, it’s a given that the quality of media should be above average.

There’s this girl whose videos are topnotch and she’s created quite a niche for herself in the lifestyle scene. I learned that her boyfriend is a filmmaker and photographer so it’s probably safe to assume that he helps her shoot content. I love her ideas because she’s creative and has a great sense of humor but I think that her content wouldn’t have a great impact on people if her videos and photos are not of good quality.

Even before Sunnies Flask officially launched, it was already trending online not just because the co-founders are “It girls”, or because the brand hired influencers to talk about the flasks. Instead, the public was intrigued that they could customize their flasks in so many ways as the components are purchased separately.

During the pre-launch, Sunnies Flask did invite influencers but people on TikTok weren’t looking at them but the color combinations of their flasks.

Martine Ho’s. Her favorite flask combination, by the way, is Chrome with Macchiato and Dough.

The launch was such a hit that on February 24, when the flasks finally hit physical stores, the color Burrata was sold out in Sunnies Studios SM Megamall and Glorietta. Gen Z couldn’t and can’t get enough of the flasks.

“If a decade of Sunnies tells us anything, it’s that anything is possible. We are always excited about creating products that make people’s lives better and more stylish,” said Ho, when asked about whether Sunnies will expand into more new businesses this

The cases are up for preorder on the Rhode website and they’re selling like the proverbial hotcakes. To think that the cases are only compatible with iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max. The lip products were already very popular before but with the phone case, they became even more sought-after. Talk about boosting a bestseller and making it viral.

So, yes, there are informal guidelines on how to make your posts (and products and services) go viral but, in my humble opinion, beyond the basics it’s important that your content is good, authentic, and something that resonates with people. ■

www.businessmirror.com.ph

WHEN gaming, it’s important to set limits on two things: budget and time.

How to be a responsible gamer

THE operator of the leading digital gaming platforms

BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and PeryaGame, DigiPlus Interactive Corp. (DigiPlus) sounds the call for responsible gaming practices even as it invites its adult customers to partake in DigiPlus’ exciting brand of recreation. As the fastest-growing digital entertainment group in the country, the company may offer nonstop fun and games but when money is in the mix, it espouses a certain level of self-control for the most positive gaming experience possible.

Andy Tsui, president of DigiPlus, affirms that responsible gaming is a key tenet of their business. “DigiPlus works to ensure that the necessary and vital regulations Pagcor sets for gaming companies in the Philippines are strictly observed,” he says. However, Tsui likewise hopes that DigiPlus customers would practice responsible gaming on their own to derive the most fun and enjoyment from their games.”

There are a number of ways for enthusiasts to maintain a healthy and positive relationship with gaming. Consider these tips based on advice given by the Responsible Gaming Council (RGC):

■ SET LIMITS. When gaming, it’s important to set limits on two things: budget and time. Before you start playing, keep a firm budget in mind. Never play with money you can’t afford to lose, and do not ever borrow money from others to play.

Meanwhile, deciding on a clear-cut time and schedule for your gaming sessions will keep you from spiraling into overindulgence.

■ ONLY PLAY WITH A CLEAR MIND. Be sure to monitor your mental and physical states before starting a gaming session. Do not engage in gambling when feeling upset or stressed as these may cloud your judgment and deter you from making sound decisions. At the same time, do limit alcohol intake while playing. Stay sober and level-headed at all times. Lastly, taking frequent breaks may help, too. Step away from the gaming table or phone, and feel free to indulge in some physical activity before coming back to play.

■ DO NOT ‘CHASE’ YOUR LOSSES. Always get into each gaming session prepared to lose the money that you’re putting in. Games featured at DigiPlus locations and on the BingoPlus, ArenaPlus and PeryaGames apps are predicated on chance, which means there’s never any guarantee of a return on your payments. Avoid the “sunken cost syndrome” of trying to get a positive outcome because one has put too much resources into one effort. Stick to your budget and be ready at any time to cut your losses and move on.

Andy Tsui is optimistic that customers that take these tips seriously are assured of a positively pleasurable gaming experience. “DigiPlus endeavors to strictly implement Pagcorapproved regulations and guidelines as customers use our gaming facilities,” he states.

Converge sees more growth opportunities in empowering Filipinos’ digital capabilities

CONVERGE Information and Communications Technology Solutions Inc (Converge ICT) recently pointed out that they see huge growth potential in boosting the digital connectivity capabilities of Filipinos. In a chance interview with reporters, Dennis Anthony Uy, CEO and cofounder of Converge, said there is a huge potential for the company to tap the 17 million prepaid users to switch to postpaid. “Right now, there are only 6 million postpaid users in the country,” Uy said. The Angeles, Pampanga native also said gaming is another area where Converge could expand its presence as the country has a 40-million gaming population. Nevertheless, the company said gamers are not given the proper attention and remain the most underserved communities in the Philippines because of the dearth of infrastructure and support. As of July last year, the Philippines is ranked 83rd out of 142 countries for mobile internet speed and 47th in terms of fixed broadband media, according to the Ookla Speedtest Global Index. Uy said esports and gaming need support because they bring camaraderie and economic benefits to the youth and the community Earlier, Uy commended the Filipino youth for showing their skills in competitive video gaming, both in the local and international

arenas, and have made a mark in the gaming world.

Further, he cited the stellar record of SIBOL, the national team for esports which showed their prowess in the virtual playground as representative of the Philippines in the medal event of the 2019 Southeast Asian Games, where egames debuted as a legitimate sport. In another chance interview, Benjamin Azada, executive vice president, and chief commercial officer of Converge ICT, said the company wants to close the gap in the quality of internet experience between the Philippines and its Southeast Asian neighbors Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia. “Why do they have to be faster than us? We have the same technology,” he said in

an interview on the sidelines during the celebration of its successive wins “fastest and most awarded internet service provider in the Philippines. “ Converge held a lighting ceremony at its Manila headquarters, illuminating it in dazzling purple as well as key areas across the country. Converge also lit up Plaza Anghel in Angeles City, Fort San Pedro in Cebu City, and Damosa IT Park in Davao City.

SUNNIES cofounder Bea Soriano-Dee

Honor Magic V2: A foldable that goes beyond the ‘galaxy’

IN a report released by Counterpoint Research last year, it said that global foldable smartphone shipments are projected to reach 101.5 million in 2027 from 78.6 million in 2026.

Samsung may have led the foldable revolution, but Chinese OEMs have been very active and made China the largest global market for foldable devices. While the foldable smartphone sector remains a niche market, the introduction of more accessible options is poised to bring more users into the “fold.”

Last week, Honor released its first foldable in the Philippines, the Honor Magic V2, taking aim at the current market leader with a campaign tagline that delivers a very clear message: “Experience magic beyond the galaxy.”

I have just started using the device this week, so our full review is still a work in progress. Instead, let me first share with you five things which, I think, make this foldable a very formidable contender.

1. THIN IS IN: Measuring a mere 9.9mm when folded, and just 4.7mm when unfolded, the Honor Magic V2 earns the title of being the thinnest foldable smartphone available, and its something you’ll immediately notice once you hold the device in your hand. To appreciate just how thin it is, all you just need to do is look at its USB charging port and compare it with the end of the charging cable. Makes you wonder if future foldables can even get thinner. It also weighs just 231g so its not as heavy on your pocket or purse. It might not seem like a big thing at first but the more I used this foldable, the more I realized that thinner is definitely better.

2. SUPER TITANIUM HINGE: When it comes to foldables, its probably the hinge mechanism that users are most concerned about. The Honor Magic V2’s revolutionary hinge design showcases significant advancements in materials, structure and craftmanship by utilizing titanium alloy which is an aerospace-grade material. Compared to stainless steel, it is 42 percent lighter. In addition, Honor’s shield steel present in the hinge’s body balances thickness and durability setting another standard for excellence.

Honor says the V2’s hinge can withstand more than 400,000 folds—for worry-free usage, even when folded 100 times a day it can last up to 10 years.  For this reason, Honor earned the coveted durability certification from SGS, a leading and respected worldtesting organization.

3. BETTER DISPLAY RATIO: Another reason why I wasn’t that interested in foldables before was the unusual size of the external display which is long and narrow. Yes they do make it easier for one-handed operation, but if you’ve

reach up to 2500 nits.

4. EYE CARE FOR YOU: Remember how the Honor 90 became quite popular because of its eye-care features? The Honor Magic V2 also delivers an industry-leading 3840Hz PWM dimming technology to minimize eyestrain, for comfortable viewing when you need to work (or watch) for an extended period of time. This works by reducing fluctuations in screen brightness and decreases the occurrence of flickering, which causes eye fatigue especially in low light environments. Another eye care feature is the Circadian Night Display which adjusts the screen to warmer colors and reduces those known to be significant circadian stimuli. This feature tested to increase melatonin levels by reducing suppression of melatonin promoting longer better sleep quality .

Last is dynamic dimming that mimics natural light stimulating ciliary muscle movement and also reduces eye fatigue. The displays brightness levels adapt automatically to external lighting conditions and screen time duration for optimal eye comfort.

5. FLAGSHIP TRIPLE CAMERA: The Honor Magic V2 has a triple rear camera setup that includes a 50MP Main Camera, a 50MP Ultra-Wide Camera, and a 20MP Telephoto Camera, allowing users to produce photos that are truly comparable to flagship photography.

The main camera is equipped with a large f/1.9 aperture as well as a customized sensor, to bring in more light, delivering images with greater sharpness, better exposure, and richer dynamic range. The new sensor is packed with improved octa-core full pixel focus to optimize subject detection and further enhance focus photography. To capture a wider view, the Honor Magic V2 features a 50MP Ultra-wide Camera making it ideal for photographing expansive landscapes and architectural marvels. Paired with a remarkable 13mm focal length and a large f/2.0 aperture, this ensures breathtaking wideangle panoramic shots with sharp detail.

Completing the Magic V2’s camera trio is a 20MP Telephoto Camera with a detailed f/2.4 aperture that supports up to 40x digital zoom to bring the your subjects closer.

Another advantage of the Magic V2 is in

camera—or it has a 16MP Front-

cameras. Unlike other foldables, it has a 16MP Frontfacing Dual Cameras meaning you can use both its inner and outer screens to take selfies with enhanced image quality and a more flexible photography experience.  The Honor Magic V2 also incorporates AI Motion Sensing Capture, leveraging an AI network trained on an extensive data set of over 270,000 images. Ideal for capturing live performances and sporting events, the AI Motion Sensing Capture function intelligently detects facial expressions like smiles and body postures such as jumping, ensuring that the camera captures the best shots while the subject is in motion.

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SONY TO CUT ABOUT 900 JOBS IN ITS PLAYSTATION UNIT AS LAYOFFS IN TECHNOLOGY, GAMING SECTOR CONTINUE

SONY will cut about 900 jobs in its PlayStation division, or about 8 percent of its global workforce, becoming the latest company in the technology and gaming sector to announce layoffs. Sony cited changes in the industry as a reason for the restructuring.

“The industry has changed immensely, and we need to future ready ourselves to set the business up for what lies ahead,” Sony Interactive Entertainment CEO Jim Ryan said in a blog post on Tuesday. “We need to deliver on expectations from developers and gamers and continue to propel future technology in gaming, so we took a step back to ensure we are set up to continue bringing the best gaming experiences to the community.”

The layoffs on Tuesday arrive one month after Microsoft said it would cut nearly 2,000 workers after its acquisition of Activision Blizzard. And Riot Games, the developer of the popular “League of Legends” multiplayer battle game, said in January that it was laying off 11 percent of its staff. The job cuts will occur in the Americas, Japan, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the Asia Pacific region.

In London, the PlayStation Studio will completely close. Cuts will also be made at Firesprite studio. In addition, reductions will take place in various functions across Sony Interactive Entertainment in the U.K., the company said. Severance benefits will be provided to those employees that are impacted.

“While these are challenging times, it is not indicative of a lack of strength of our company, our brand, or our industry,” Ryan said. AP

MEXICAN PRESIDENT SLAMS YOUTUBE FOR TAKING DOWN HIS VIDEO THAT SHARED A JOURNALIST’S PHONE NUMBER

MEXICO CITY—Mexico’s president again lashed out at social media platform YouTube on Monday for taking down part of his daily news briefing where he revealed a reporter’s phone number.

President Andrés Manuel López Obrador said the platform in Mexico “has been taken over by conservatives,” accused it of censorship and claimed YouTube “is in full decline.”

It marked the latest chapter in the Mexican president’s love-hate relationship with social media.

López Obrador’s YouTube channel has 4.2 million subscribers, and the president gives preference to social media blogs and news sites at his briefings, often answering questions only from them.

Press freedom groups said the president’s decision to make public the phone number of a New York Times reporter Thursday was an attempt to punish critical reporting, and exposed the reporter to potential danger.

The row started when López Obrador took offense at a New York Times story about a US inquiry into claims that people close to him took money from drug traffickers shortly before his 2018 election and again after he was president.

As is common practice, the Times reporter had sent a letter to López Obrador’s spokesman asking for the president’s comment on the story before it was published, and included her telephone number as a means of contacting her.

At his daily press briefing that day, the president displayed the letter on a large screen and read it aloud, including her phone number.

While Mexican law prohibits officials from revealing personal information about people, López Obrador said “the political and moral authority of the president of Mexico is above that law.”

YouTube said in a statement that “our harassment policies strictly prohibit content that reveals someone’s personally identifiable information, including their phone number. Upon review, we have removed and issued a strike to the channels containing the video that violate this policy.”

In a statement posted, not unsurprisingly, on YouTube, the president wrote on Sunday that “this is an arrogant and authoritarian attitude. They are in full decline.”

At the beginning of his administration, López Obrador frequently praised the “blessed social media” as an outlet to get around the supposed domination of conservative points of view in newspapers and radio stations. But López Obrador has since alleged conspiracies against him involving bots and organized social media campaigns.

López Obrador engaged in similar accusations against X, formerly known as Twitter, in 2021. The Mexican leader had a warm relationship with former US President Donald Trump and protested Twitter’s decision to suspend Trump’s account.

At the time, López Obrador accused one of Twitter’s representatives in Mexico of having previously worked for politicians of the conservative opposition National Action Party.

The president also frequently criticizes environmentalists, non-governmental organizations and regulatory agencies.

The doxxing of the reporter last week did have an unintended effect: After López Obrador defended his move and said the reporter should just change her phone number, it sparked leaks of mobile phone numbers of the two main presidential candidates and several top politicians.

Xóchitl Gálvez, the opposition candidate in the June 2 presidential election, said her phone number had been made public and that she had received about 18,000 messages since last week, including “some strong threats.”

But she decided to keep the line open, and agreed with YouTube’s position.

“What the president has to recognize is that he violated privacy laws, and on social media, the law is respected,” Gálvez said.

The president appeared unapologetic on Monday, casting it as a freedom of expression issue, saying that “we have said it before, liberty is sublime.”

He made it clear he wouldn’t close his social media accounts in retaliation, saying that “you don’t leave the parade [until] you get kicked out.” AP

Del Monte in familiar spot with 5-point lead

DEL MONTE opened a fivepoint lead over Eastridge in the 75th Philippine Airlines Men’s Regular Interclub behind Rolando Bregente and Cliff Nuneza at the Pueblo de Oro Golf and Country Club in Cagayan de Oro City on Friday.

Five days after clinching its first senior crown, Del Monte combined for 109 points going into the next two rounds at its home course in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon.

Bregente and Nuneza were the only players to break par at Pueblo, shooting 39 and 38 points, respectively.

Del Monte captain Yoyong Velez was the third scorer with 32 points.

Bregente, a 21-year-old sophomore at Bukidnon State University, collected five birdies against two bogeys.

Del Monte also drew a strong performance from 16-year-old

Crossovers take on Flying Titans in duel for lead, momentum

CHERY TIGGO gets the chance to test its true mettle against a fancied team coming off a challenging win as the Crossovers and Choco Mucho Flying Titans clash Saturday in what promises to be a riveting battle in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.

They’re shooting for the top spot on a 3-0 card in a match that also provides a crucial psychological edge and momentum in the competitive preliminaries of the season-opening conference of the league organized by Sports Vision.

Game time is at 6 p.m.

Fireworks are also expected to erupt in the 4 p.m. face-off between PLDT and Petro Gazz with the former also aiming for a third consecutive victory and a share of the lead and the latter looking to rebound from a tough five-set defeat to the Flying Titans last Tuesday.

Ushering in the explosive triplebill is the Cignal-Galeries Tower match at 2 p.m. with the HD Spikers tipped to log their second straight victory against the Highrisers, who succumbed to the High Speed Hitters in three sets last February 22.

Despite Chery Tiggo’s dominant performances against the league’s two new teams, their real worth will be tested against the formidable Flying Titans in a clash of firepower and defensive skills.

Chery Tiggo coach Kungfu Reyes places his faith in the team’s core, including Mylene Paat, sisters Eya and EJ Laure, Cess Robles, middles Cza Carandang, Pauline Gaston and Seth Rodriguez, Alina Bicar, setter Joyme Cagande, Buding Duremdes and Jen Nierva and the newlyacquired Ara Galang and Aby Maraño.

However, their main challenge lies in containing the prolific Sisi Rondina, the reigning league MVP, who scored 24 points in their previous match with the Angels.

Choco Mucho mentor Dante Alinsunurin will also be banking on Kat Tolentino, Isa Molde, Regine Arocha and Royse Tubino and middles Chery Nunag and Maddie Madayag with support from setters Deanna Wong and Mars Alba and defense specialist Bia General.

Meanwhile, PLDT, riding high on back-to-back wins, faces a tough challenge against the Angels although coach Rald Ricafort remains optimistic about their chances, relying on a crew led by Fil-Canadian Savi Davison, Jessey de Leon, Majoy Baron, Erika Santos, Jules Samonte, Kiesha Bedonia and Fiola Ceballos.

EBy Josef Ramos

RNEST

JOHN “EJ OBIENA

competes in his first world indoor championships this weekend in Glasgow with a mission— accomplishing what was denied from him two years ago.

“I hope to get the opportunity that was robbed from the Philippines and me back in Belgrade 2022,” Obiena told BusinessMirror on Friday. “I’m now looking forward to it and hopefully to sustain my early great showing.”

Obiena was denied participation in the Belgrade world indoors in 2022 following his suspension by his own national federation, the Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association, on liquidation issues concerning his legendary Ukranian coach Vitaly Petrov. Already on the rise as a worldclass pole vaulter back then, Obiena, now the world No. 2 and Asia’s best and record holder, eventually wound up a winner in that dispute that reached arbitration.

On Sunday (Manila time) at the Emirates Arena in Scotland’s capital, Obiena squares off with 12 other elite pole vaulters, including the man he wants to topple at the top—Olympic and world champion and world record

Nuneza who bounced back after bogeying the first three holes.

Nuneza, who started at the back, had a pair of three-putts before hitting birdies on 13 and 14. He added two more birdies on 16 and 18 to reach the turn on 2-under.

Del Monte’s strong start mirrors its senior team’s performance that led to a runaway championship last week.

“Will history repeat itself?” Velez posed this question while looking forward to playing at Del Monte.

As defending champion Manila Southwoods struggled to keep pace, Eastridge stepped up to challenge Del

Chris John Remata shot 36 points, Jeffren Lumbo added 35 and Jhondie Quibol chipped in 33 as the Binangonan-based squad kept Del Monte within arm’s length.

Miko Granada and Shinichi Suzuki fired 35 and 32, respectively but Manila Southwoods was pulled down by the 29 of either Junjun Plana or Zach Castro.

South Pacific Davao brought up the rear with 83 points behind Nino Villacencio (32), Edmar Salvador (30), and Jomar Salvador (21). Competition was tight in the Founders division

Obiena has vindication in mind in first world indoor campaign

holder Armand Duplantis.

“It’s going to be a good field, it’s so nice and I really feel excited the least,” Obiena said. “I really feel good, healthy physically and emotionally although my preparation is just a little bit short.”

“But we will do our very best so let’s see,” added the 28-year-old who’s already qualified for this year’s Paris Olympics.

He also has to contend with world No. 3 Chris Nielsen of the US, No. 4 Kurtis Marschall of Australia and equally-potent Sam Kendricks and Austin Miller also of the US and Thibaut Collet of France.

Duplantis is the defending champion with his 6.20 meters in Belgrade and also packs an amazing 6.22m he achieved in February 2023 at the All-Star Perche Indoor in Clermont-Ferrand, France.

Obiena started the indoor season on with back-to-back gold medals at the Memorial Josip Gasparac in Croatia and ISTAF Berlin in Germany only last week.

No kissing scandal this time for Spain

MADRID—Spain’s women’s soccer team is finally getting attention for its play on the field, rather than the behavior of its officials.

Spain followed up its Women’s World Cup title in August with victory in the inaugural Women’s Nations League on Wednesday, and this time the talk in Spain is about the great performances of the team and not about an unwanted kiss that ruined

the team’s World Cup celebrations.

The kiss by former soccer federation president Luis Rubiales on the lips of player Jenni Hermoso during the World Cup awards ceremony sparked widespread outrage in Spain and ignited one of the sport’s worst crises. Rubiales eventually resigned , and prosecutors later accused him of sexual assault.

The scandal overshadowed the

With Obiena in Glasgow are Filipino-American Lauren Hoffman and John Cabang Tolentino whole be competing in hurdles.

Obiena reached world-class status after that 2022 brush with the Patafa—he convincingly won gold at the Hanoi Southeast Asian Games in May and bronze at the world championship in July in Eugene, Oregon, that year.

He never stopped after that—he was a SEA Games champion for the third consecutive time in Cambodia and was the Asian championships gold medalist in Bangkok in 2023, the same year he clinched silver behind Duplantis in the worlds and gold in the Hangzhou 19th Asian Games. Obiena clinched a ticket to Paris by clearing the 5.82-meter standard at the Bauhaus-Galan meet in Stockholm July 2 last year—a day after the Olympic qualifying window opened.

ERNEST JOHN “EJ” OBIENA’S drawing boost from his 2022 experience.

team’s performances and its historic achievement in what was only its third World Cup appearance. There was no controversy this time after another big victory, only praise for the women who triumphed again and were finally being recognized for their talent, not their fight against sexism or lack of equality.

“Invincible,” said the sports daily Marca in one of the many front-page headlines featuring the women’s national team on Thursday, both on the sports and general news dailies. AP

where Cebu Country Club (CCC) took a one-point lead over Wack Wack.

CCC assembled 98 points behind Jacob Cajita’s 35 followed by Jon Joseph Alvarez and Harvey Sytiongsa with 35 and 30, respectively.

Wack Wack drew 35 points from Perry Bucay and a couple of 31s from Geoff Tan and Theodore de Jesus to trail CCC.

Two points behind WW was Forest Hills which collected a pair of 32s from Raymundo Inigo and Don Breganza and a 31 from Rocky Kristian Co.

Six other teams were within eight points of CCC, promising a dramatic finish on Sunday. They are Valley (93), Canlubang (92), Eagle Ridge (91), The Orchard (90), Riviera Golf (90), and Del Monte (90).

IOWA star Caitlin Clark, who is on the verge of becoming the all-time NCAA scoring leader in college basketball, announced Thursday she will leave the Hawkeyes after this season and enter the WNBA draft.

“While this season is far from over and we have a lot more goals to achieve, it will be my last one at Iowa,” Clark wrote on social media.

Clark has become the focal point of women’s basketball, with her flashy play and 3-point shot, often from the on-court logo. Many players would be benched for shooting from so far out, but Clark has the green light from her coach and has delivered while also finding her teammates and hitting the boards. The guard, with one more year of eligibility, became the all-time leading women’s scorer in major college basketball by scoring 33 points to pass Lynette Woodard and post her 17th career triple-double in

The 75th staging of the PAL Interclub is supported by diamond sponsors Mastercard and Asian Journal.

Platinum sponsors include Airbus, Primax Broadcasting Network and Araw Hospitality while gold sponsors are Tanduay and Asia Brewery. Joining the event as silver sponsors are ABS-CBN Global, Radio Mindanao Network and Philippine National Bank. Visa is a minor sponsor while Must Glow is joining as a donor.

DEL MONTE’S Rolando Bregente and Cliff Nuneza are the only players to break par on Friday. ROY DOMINGO

Ajido, White scoop more swim medals

JAMESRAY MISHAEL AJIDO and Heather White grabbed two more medals for host Philippines on the final day of swimming action on Thursday night in the 11th Age Group Championships at the New Clark City Aquatics Center in Capas, Tarlac.

Ajido clocked 25.50 seconds to clinch silver in the boys 12-14 50m butterfly event won by Japanese Yusei Nishiono (25.43s). Iranian Yashar Soleimani got the bronze in 26.02s

It was sweet revenge for Nishiono, who settled for the silver behind Ajido’s gold medal in the 100m butterfly last Wednesday.       Ajido’s 55.98 in the 100 butterfly broke the meet record of 56.36 set by Chinese Yu Xiang Wang in 2019— Nishiono’s submitted a record-breaking 56.05s while Chinese Taipei’s YungCheng Kan was third in 56.79.

The Filipino-British Heather White bagged another bronze medal,this time in the girls 15-17 100 where she clocked 57.86s to finish behind Japan’s Ramika Taira (56.81) and Hong Kong’s Gilaine Ma (56.86).    Jasmine Mojdeh also contributed to the country’s medal haul,  with a bronze medal in the girls 15-17 200 butterfly.

Ajido, a Grade 8 student at La Salle Greenhills, now has three medals, including a bronze in the 50m freestyle.

Clark to skip final season of college in favor of WNBA

a 108-60 victory over Minnesota on Wednesday night.

In her announcement, she thanked her teammates, coaches and the thousands of fans who have packed arenas across the country to watch her and the sixth-ranked Hawkeyes.

Those fans were chanting “One more year! One more year!” while Clark was being interviewed on the court Wednesday night, when she also broke the NCAA single-season record by sinking eight 3-pointers for a total of 156.

She has 3,650 career points. Woodard had 3,649 points for Kansas from 1977-81, before the NCAA sanctioned the sport. Earlier this month, Clark broke Kelsey Plum’s NCAA scoring record (3,527 points). Next up is the overall NCAA scoring record of Pete Maravich, who is just 17 points ahead of her. Clark is expected to be the top pick in the draft on April 15. AP

SPAIN’S Alexia Putellas lifts the Women’s Nations League trophy. AP

CAITLIN CLARK has become the focal point of women’s basketball. AP

BOC ops yield ₧3.72B worth of contraband vape products

THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) seized some P3.72 billion worth of smuggled e-cigarettes or vape products in a series of warehouse raids in Parañaque City and Malabon City, the bureau revealed on Friday. Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio said that the issuance of Letters of Authority (LOAs) against these warehouses is part of the BOC’s agenda to specifically target smuggled e-cigarettes or vapes.

On Thursday, February 29, the BOC-Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) found an estimated 1.5 million pieces of the Flava brand e-cigarettes in assorted flavors worth P1.53 billion at a warehouse located in Olivares Compound, San Dionisio, Parañaque City.

BOC-CIIS Director Verne Enciso said they found a total of 1.5 million pieces of vape products after they discovered around 15,000 boxes of vapes containing 100 pieces per box.

“The current market value is P500 per piece, so that’s a total of P750 million. Add to that the excise tax that should be collected, and the total estimated sum-up value would be P1.53 billion,” Enciso said. The government could have collected around P780 million of the 1.5 million pieces of smuggled vapes coming from the excise tax worth P520 per 10 millimeters or one piece. Under the new sin tax reform law or the Republic Act (RA) No. 11467, a tax of P37 per millimeter will be imposed on salt nicotine vapor products in the first year, and an additional P5 per millimeter per year until the rate reaches P52 per millimeter in 2024. Thereafter, the tax will be increased by 5 percent every year.

The BOC-CIIS also has an ongoing inspection of some warehouses located in Superb Catch Inc. in Barangay Catmon, Malabon City. A warehouse yielded an estimated 19,800 boxes, with 100 pieces of vapes per box, during an initial inventory, according to Enciso. A total of P1.029 billion worth of excise

tax could have been collected from the 1.98 million pieces of vape products, which have a total market value of P1.089 billion at P550 each.

The combined market value and the excise tax of the smuggled vape products totaled P2.118 billion.

The BOC-CIIS said it also discovered a temporary unplugged cold storage unit being used as a storage facility to contain a still undetermined quantity of vape products.

“This is an ongoing, [active] investigation and inspection. We are not yet done examining these warehouses, but we will be able to determine at the soonest time possible the exact amount of smuggled vapes they contain,” Commissioner Rubio was quoted in the statement as saying. Rubio also issued a warning against the groups and individuals behind such activities.

“I hope this seizure serves as a reminder to those who look to circumvent our laws that BOC is steadfast in its commitment to enforce our responsibility of border protection,” he said, adding, “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to bring smugglers to justice.”.

“Our team today scores a win against these smugglers. There’s a huge popularity of e-cigarettes or vapes among Filipinos, especially the younger generations, these days, so we are here to make sure they only get access to the safest products in the market,” Deputy Commissioner Juvymax Uy of Customs Intelligence Group said.

In 2023, the BOC apprehended P43.3 billion worth of smuggled commodities.

The Bureau raked in a total of P883.6 billion in revenues in 2023, surpassing its target of P874 billion by P9.5 billion on the back of digitalization efforts and antismuggling drive.

The BOC is targeting to reach P70 billion in revenues in February, raising P3.5 billion a day. Reine Juvierre Alberto

SM Prime invests in future sustainability leaders with UPLB scholarship program

INSPIRED by the late Henry Sy Sr.’s belief in the power of education and driven by their commitment to sustainability, leading integrated property developer SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) recently launched a scholarship program in partnership with the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB).

Aptly called the SM Sustainability Scholarship, the initiative reflects SM Prime’s commitment to both educational access and sustainability stewardship.

The program will fully support ten deserving students through their undergraduate studies at UPLB, providing them with the opportunity to pursue degrees in either Bachelor of Science in Human Ecology or Bachelor of Science in Forestry. These fields align with SM Prime’s focus on building resilient communities and fostering a sustainable future.

The scholarship recipients, meticulously chosen for their academic excellence and dedication to sustainability, were formally recognized during a meet-and-greet gathering at UPLB, marking the start of their journey as SM Sustainability Scholars. Each scholar will receive a full scholarship covering tuition fees, a monthly living allowance, and a book allowance, ensuring they can focus on their studies without financial worries.

During the gathering, College of Human Ecology (CHE) Dean Dr. Jennifer Amparo expressed that the pursuit of sustainability is most effectively undertaken collaboratively.

“CHE is one of the colleges that puts a premium on interdisciplinarity and trans disciplinarity because we believe that in sustainability, you don’t work in silos. We need to work together and build each other’s skills, know-how, and also our programs together to ensure sustainability,” she said.

“I would also like to thank SM Prime

Ex-HSBC CEO now GSIS chief Veloso aims to reshape PHL’s $30-billion fund

THE head of the Philippines’ largest pension fund, which manages P1.7 trillion pesos ($30.3 billion) in assets, wants to pour more money into equities, while seizing opportunities to boost returns through investments and acquisitions.

The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) that provides pension and benefits to more than 2 million public sector workers is eyeing partnerships with other state entities or even buying a few of them, according to GSIS President Wick Veloso, who was CEO of HSBC Holdings Plc’s Philippine unit from 2012 to 2018.

Veloso, 57, who worked at HSBC for more than two decades, discussed a broad plan to transform the nation’s top pension fund into an institution that will maximize use of government

assets and in the process help improve public infrastructure, including transport.

“We would like to review our investment policy guidelines to allow us to have the flexibility to take advantage of market opportunity,” Veloso said in an interview in Manila on Tuesday.

He plans to leverage his long banking experience—that includes leading the Philippine National Bank—and put to work idle government land. He said improved returns should boost benefits to government workers including low-paid teachers—half of GSIS’s members—many of whom resort to borrowing from loan sharks to make ends meet.

He also plans to purchase government corporations and bolster investment in listed companies. Such initiatives have been discussed internally and the rest of

the GSIS Board is open to them, Veloso said.

Investment mix INVESTMENTS in infrastructure, power-related businesses, artificial intelligence and data centers are expected to help increase revenues, he said. The fund is also looking at mid-size gaming and consumer companies. GSIS can only purchase shares of companies with a market capitalization of at least P15 billion.

GSIS invests about a third of assets, more than 500 billion pesos, in fixed income. Some P250 billion are in equities, and another P250 billion are in exchange-traded funds. About P300 billion are lent out to state employees and P200 billion deployed in properties.

There’s room to put more money into equities, including those of foreign companies, Veloso said,

PAF and ROKAF to hold air show to celebrate PHL-Sokor 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties

HIGHLIGHTING the strong diplomatic ties between the Philippines and South Korea, the Philippine Air Force (PAF) on Friday announced an air show featuring the military aircraft of the two nations from March 3 to 5. Participants in this event are the Republic of Korea Air Force’s (ROKAF) “Black Eagles,” which consists of nine T-50Bs and the PAF’s FA-50PHs.

The air show will take place over the skies of Clark Air Base, Mabalacat City,

Pampanga.

“The highlight of the event will be the awe-inspiring aerial display by the renowned ‘Black Eagles’ aerobatic team from South Korea. They will showcase their breathtaking skills and precision with captivating maneuvers throughout the three-day event,” the PAF noted.

On March 3, a special “Friendship Flight” will take place, featuring PAF pilots flying FA-50PHs, alongside their counterparts from the “Black Eagles”

flying T-50Bs in a joint display of friendship and collaboration.

Secretary of National Defense, Secretary Gilberto “Gibo” C. Teodoro Jr., is expected to attend the said event as guest of honor.

The event will be open to the public for viewing on March 4 and 5, with limited slots available.

Interested individuals may register by following the PAF Facebook Page for the registration link.

declining to provide details.

“Our investment strategy is flexible. This approach has allowed us to diversify our portfolio,” he said.  About a fifth of the fund’s investments are held in international assets.

GSIS reported a 70 percent increase in net income to P113.3 billion for the past year, with revenue up 33 percent. And Veloso is confident that the strong performance could continue.

The Federal Reserve is likely to start cutting its key interest rate as early as the third quarter, which may be followed by the Philippine central bank, he said.

“Once the market starts to feel the easing, everyone will be searching for yields. Players might push the PSE index all the way to 8,000,” he said, referring to the Philippine Stock Exchange Index Bloomberg News

Highlights:

March 3, 2024: Dignitary Day

Details: Exclusive airshow attended by dignitaries from the Philippines and South Korea.

March 4, 2024: Public Day

Afternoon Edition

Open Gate: 1:30 p.m.

Airshow Begins: 3:45 p.m.

March 5, 2024: Public Day

Morning Edition

Open Gate: 7:00 a.m.

Airshow Begins : 9:20 a.m.

Rex Anthony Naval

DOTr’s Bautista meets MAP transport and infra committee

Tfor putting emphasis on this scholarship. SM Prime did not just provide the finances or scholarship. They invested the time to really meet our scholars and provided other support mechanisms to ensure that our scholars thrive in their academic lives. This is also a manifestation of SM’s commitment to sustainability by really developing our future sustainability leaders,” she added.

College of Forestry and Natural Resources Prof. Marilyn Combalicer also extended the college’s support to the scholars on behalf of the college’s dean, Dr. Marlo Mendoza. “We hope to continue nurturing such meaningful collaboration and initiatives that enhance our educational experience and initiatives for our students. Rest assured that we will continue providing support to our students in ensuring their growth and success in both academia and beyond,” she said.

Meanwhile, SM Prime AVP and Head of Marketing, PR and Corporate Communications Rida Reyes-Castillo echoed that the fundamental values of the company are intricately interwoven with both education and sustainability. “SM Group’s founder, Mr. Henry ‘Tatang’ Sy Sr. believed that education is a great equalizer, and he envisioned that sending one child to college would create ripples of social good not just for families but for an entire community,” she said. She added: “The improvement of the well-being of the youth and the partner communities is something that we at SM invest in.”

For decades, the SM group has embraced the responsibility to contribute to nation building through social good programs that are geared towards quality education, sustainable agriculture, healthcare, and disaster response. By helping improve the quality of life of the people in these host communities, social development and investment goes hand in hand with business growth to achieve a better future for all.

HE MAP (Management Association of the Philippines) Holistic Plan to address the severe traffic congestion in Metro Manila was subject of an in-depth and constructive discussion in a meeting between a Department of Transportation’s (DOTr) team of 15 officials led by Secretary Jaime J. Bautista and a MAP Transportation and Infrastructure Committee (TIC) 15-person counterpart team led by MAP President Rene Almendras and TIC Chair Eduardo Yap.

The Holistic

and

PHOTO shows SM sustainability scholars with University of the Philippines Los Baños’ Office of Scholarships and Grants Director Associate Prof. Ariel L. Babierra, Ph.D., College of Forestry

Photo shows (from left) TIC TWG Chair Jose P. De Jesus, TIC Vice Chair Glicerio

Sicat; TIC Chair Eduardo Yap; DOTr Secretary Jaime J. Bautista; MAP President

and TIC TWG Member

L. Singson. Not in photo is DOTr

Sector head Undersecretary Elmer Sarmiento.

Experts alarmed after

another

PHL

Eagle rescued with gunshot injuries in Bukidnon

By Erwin M. Mascariñas

BUTUAN City—Experts are alarmed as attacks on the Philippine Eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyi) continue to harm and threaten the critically endangered raptor with a new victim in the town of Pangantucan, a year after the rescue of a PHL eagle in San Fernando town of the same province.

“Amid our calls and the efforts made towards the protection and conservation of the Philippines’ national bird, it is heartbreaking that another Philippine eagle was rescued and then after examination our veterinarian, we found out that it had two air gun pellets lodged on the bird’s body after X-ray showed the pellets embedded above the bird’s right collar bone and right thigh,” said Dr. Jayson Ibañez, Director for Operations of the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF).

A PEF report pointed out that the eagle was a victim of shooting and the third case of a Philippine eagle getting harmed by air-guns in the province of Bukidnon since the pandemic, expressing an alarm sighting that the eagle rescue is the 19th bird to be admitted at the Philippine Eagle Center (PEC) for medical care since 2019.

On February 24, 2023, Philippine Eagle Sinabadan was rescued in San Fernando, Bukidnon with air-gun pellets in the chest, the thigh, and a permanent injury in the abdomen.

“The first case in Bukidnon was Philippine eagle Tagoyaman Fernando a rescued immature eagle in 2020 whose X-ray showed an air gun pellet lodged on its right wing, then we have Sinabadan last year and now this incident, the 9th victim of eagle shooting,” said Ibañez.

Ibañez reiterated that “the situation is alarming that in nearly all of these cases, air-gun was the primary weapon used in shooting down the birds, which is technically not a firearm, and not regulated under the law (RA 10591).”

“This lack of regulation and prevailing treatment of air-guns as mere toys make them a very accessible tool for wildlife hunting and shooting, especially in the uplands where wildlife law enforcement is weak if not nearly non existing. Air-gun hunting is, therefore, not only a big threat to our national symbol, but also to other threatened wildlife in general,” he added.

Ibañez further added that an example would be if someone search the phrase “airgun wildlife hunting Philippines” on Google, three sites featuring morbid videos of wild birds and wildlife hunted using air-guns are the top hits while certain social media groups celebrate such actions on wildlife as trophy posts indicating the extent to which air-gun hunting is tolerated in the country with impunity.

“But this has to change, we therefore reiterate our call for reforms from and stronger law enforcement by our Philippine National Police authorities to seriously stop the persecution of our imperiled wildlife,” he said.

Ibañez explained that there is no single solution to address local hunting, stating if the government also places the same resources and efforts it puts into combating illegal wildlife trade to addressing local wildlife hunting, then our eagles and its wildlife allies have a fighting chance.

“For instance, a similar inter-agency law enforcement group would enforce the laws against eagle and wildlife crimes (RA 6147 and 9147), the use of air guns, and improvised and illegal firearms during hunting (RA 10591),” said Ibañez.

The Rescue

The PEF report indicated that on the morning of February 24, 2024, a local resident of Sitio Balmar, Nabaliwa, Pangantucan, Bukidnon found the eagle trapped inside a vine thicket, unable to fly along the Kiulayon ridge, which was later called Philippine eagle Kalatungan.

The resident, namely Dodong Watang, immediately called for help and the bird was promptly rescued by the indigenous people’s forest guard volunteers Datu Nonoy Nonay and Fermin Daculay from the Bantay sa Yutang Kabilin (BYK) association.

The eagle was then brought to the attention of Elpedio Suclatan, chairman of Nagkahiusang Manubung Manununod sa Yutang Kabilin (Namamayuk) and then to Thieza Verdijo, Deputy Director of the Xavier Science Foundation who reached out to PEF who formed a rescue team from the PEC in Davao City.

On February 25, PEF Senior Animal Keeper Dominic Tadena, PEF Biologist Andrei Von Mariano Tirona, and Veterinary Consultant Dr. Sheen Erica Gadong, with the assistance of the Protected Area Superintendent Ner Doydoy of the Protected Area Management Office (PAMO) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) travelled to Pangantucan and immediately provided first aid to stabilized the bird’s condition.

In the medical report, it indicated that during the initial assessment during the rescue, that bird was bright, alert, and responsive during distant observation.

With a net weight of 3.45 kilograms, supplements and fluid were administered subcutaneously immediately after physical assessment. The eagle was immediately brought to Davao City for X-ray on the same day

After objects were observed during radiography, a surgery was immediately performed by the veterinarian team, which surgically removed two air gun pellets; one superficially embedded on the skin near the crop, and one on skin in the caudomedial area of the right femur.

Culture-based conservation in action

IBAÑEZ highlighted that the heroes amid the sad tale of the eagle’s rescue are the indigenous people (IP) of Pangantucan who immediately acted on the report together with partner Non-Government Organizations such as Xavier Science Foundation.

“If we look at the efforts we had, the rescue, the successful monitoring of pairs, and towards the protection of forest areas, it is our IP groups who were in the forefront in those endeavors. Teaching our IP and using their own indigenous knowledge to advance culture-based conservation has been an eye opener,” said Ibañez.

In the data provided by the PEF, all of the 16 PHL eagle pairs discovered in Bukidnon were made with the help of the IP communities, including two new territories discovered in the last 2 years, with the latest pair nesting site discovered in San Fernando Bukidnon.

Ibañez explained that the indigenous practices and the people who live within the forest areas are the best way to find solutions in creating partnerships towards conservation based on existing cultural practices of the IP communities and it has proven invaluable especially when there are reports of trapped and injured eagles and other wildlife in their areas.

“We in PEF, we helped train and empower IP forest guards in the hopes to ensure that the forest remained secured and protected. We hope that we can find ways to help communities with socio-economic enterprise through sustainable livelihood,” Ibañez said