BusinessMirror May 28, 2023

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Filipino naval, air and land military units prove proficiency during ‘Balikatan’ CJLLF in Zambales

By Rex Anthony Naval

WHILE it was the American laser-guided bomb unleashed by a Lockheed Martin F-35 “Lightning II” all-weather stealth multirole combat aircraft that delivered the death blow to the decommissioned World War II Corvette BRP Pangasinan (PS-31) during the combined joint littoral live-fire (CJLLF) exercise on April 26, participating Filipino naval, land and air units also did a fair amount of damage and scored numerous hits on the target vessel.

“Balikatan” exercises off the waters of San Antonio, Zambales. PHOTO COURTESY OF PAF

BRP Pangasinan at the target

C JLLF was the pinnacle of this year’s “Balikatan” exercises, which took place from April 11 to 28, 2023. It was held some 12 nautical miles off the waters of San Antonio, Zambales.

Th is year’s Balikatan was the largest annual exercise between the Philippines and the United States and marked its 38th iteration and the largest iteration to date, with more than 17,600 participants.

The BRP Pangasinan is a former US Navy patrol craft escort built in 1943 and turned over to the country in 1948. It was decommissioned in March 2021.

Observers said efforts to sink the decommissioned World War II vessel started when the missile frigate BRP Jose Rizal (FF-151) targeted and fired its 76mm Oto Melara automatic cannon, scoring dozens of hits on the antiquated ship.

Th is was followed by the US high-mobility artillery rocket system (HIMARS), which fired around six rockets that all apparently missed the target.

A sked why HIMARS missed its target, Col. Michael Logico, Executive Agent of Balikatan 2023 Philippines, said the platform was designed as a “ground-based and area weapon and not a precision weapon.”

A nother factor: BRP Pangasinan was drifting since the vessel proved impossible to be anchored due to the extreme depth of the water in the target area.

L ogico said the presence of an “interloper,” which appeared after the first HIMARS round was fired, forced them to pause the exercise due to safety reasons.

The complication there was that in between that time from the registry round to the subsequent rounds there was some interloper that entered into our opera box [firing range] and per our SOP [standard operating procedures] any interloper would mean that we would have to pause the exercise,” he explained.

BRP Pangasinan was then engaged by the Filipino and American 155mm self-propelled howitzers

that fired a number of shots, scoring hits on the decommissioned Corvette and the secondary drum and raft targets.

Air attack phase

WHILE naval and land-based guns managed to hit BRP Pangasinan repeatedly, it was the air attack phase of the exercise that struck telling blows against the target.

These air strikes were conducted by assets of the Philippine Air Force (PAF), United States Air Force (USAF) and US Marine Corps (USMC).

First in line was the PAF’s T129B Atak combat helicopters, which fired its 20mm chain guns and rockets.

The American AH-64D Apaches also participated and fired several rounds of AGM-114 Hellfire anti-tank missiles at the derelict.

The PAF’s newly acquired Embraer A-29B Super Tucano attack planes also hit the BRP Pangasinan with 250-pound bombs. Th is was followed by the FA50PHs, which fired AGM-65 Maverick air-to-ground missiles at the target. Th ese PAF jet fighters were followed by USAF F-16Cs which fired at the target with unknown weapons.

L ast but not the least, the USMC F-35s then struck the antiquated ship with laser-guided bombs at 2:47 p.m., sinking the vessel at around 2:55 p.m. of April 26.

Lessons learned AMONG the possible lessons learned during the CJLLF, Logico noted, was that combined operations are “inherently hard.”

Difficult because you’re dealing with two different organizations, two different cultures and it is good that we share almost the same doctrines when it comes to warfighting. So the challenges were already predetermined by us and that is what we were working through,” he added.

A nd while it is easy to fire any weapon systems, the ability to “deconflict” (reduce friendly fire) all those platforms is a challenge by itself, Logico pointed out.

CJLLF a realistic exercise

“THIS training increased the exercise’s realism and complexity, a key priority shared between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the US military,” USMC Forces, Pacific and US exercise director for Balikatan Lt. Gen. William Jurney said in a statement.

Approximately 1,400 Marines, soldiers, sailors, airmen and Coast Guardsmen from both countries took part in the training, which in-

volved detecting, identifying, targeting and engaging a target ship using a variety of ground and airbased weapons systems.

“ Together we are strengthening our capabilities in full-spectrum military operations across all domains,” he added.

Th is year’s Balikatan Exercise has increased in complexity and high-end warfighting mission sets over the past several years.

A focus point in this year’s ex-

ercise was the bilateral integration of command and control, sensors, and multi-domain fires.

Th is enabled expanded battlefield awareness, the sharing of targeting data between geographically dispersed units, and precision strikes in a contested maritime environment.

During the littoral live-fire event, a USMC command and control and sensor network enabled the various firing platforms to sense

their target, develop firing solutions, and deliver precision integrated fires against the target vessel.

The training event represented a tangible demonstration of the Philippines and US commitment to strengthen military capabilities and interoperability to meet shared modern-day security challenges.

‘Revitalized’ alliance

“THIS significant activity demonstrated new potential and revitalized the strength of our militaries, while we continuously forge an ironclad alliance,” said Maj. Gen. Marvin L. Licudine, the AFP’s Education, Training Doctrine Command chief and Philippine Balikatan Exercise Director.

This event enhanced the interoperability of the Philippines and US forces in conducting combined joint operations utilizing both countries’ Army, Navy and Air Force assets in conducting maritime security and territorial defense,” he added.

The training successfully advanced combined military modernization and capability development by furthering the opportunities for both Philippine and US forces to work together in a complex and realistic training environment.

The Philippines-US Mutual Defense Treaty was signed in 1951 and is America’s longest-standing defense treaty in the Indo-Pacific Region. Together, the United States and the Philippines are committed to promoting regional peace and stability.

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. looks at a US M142 High-Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) during a combined joint littoral live-fire exercise at the Balikatan joint military exercise in Zambales on Wednesday, April 26, 2023. AP/AARON FAVILA

AGING AMERICA

Baby boomers push nation’s median age higher as fewer children are born

By Mike Schneider The Associated Press

THE United States grew older, faster, last decade. The share of residents 65 or older grew by more than a third from 2010 to 2020 and at the fastest rate of any decade in 130 years, while the share of children declined, according to new figures from the most recent census.

The declining percentage of children under age 5 was particularly noteworthy in the figures from the 2020 head count released Thursday.

Combined, the trends mean the median age in the US jumped from 37.2 to 38.8 over the decade.

A merica’s two largest age groups propelled the changes: more baby boomers turning 65 or older and millennials who became adults or pushed further into their 20s and early 30s.

A lso, fewer children were born between 2010 and 2020, according to numbers from the once-a-decade head count of every US resident. The decline stems from women delaying having babies until later

in life, in many cases to focus on education and careers, according to experts, who noted that birth rates never recovered following the Great Recession of 2007-2009.

“In the short run, the crisis of work-family balance, the lack of affordable childcare, stresses associated with health care, housing, and employment stability, all put a damper on birth rates by increasing uncertainty and making it harder to decide to have and raise children,” said Philip Cohen, a sociologist at the University of Maryland.

Old and young ratio

THERE are important social and economic consequences to an aging

Continued from

population, including the ability of working-age adults to support older people through Social Security and Medicare contributions. The Census Bureau calculates a dependency ratio, defined as the number of children plus the number of seniors per 100 working-age people.

W hile the dependency ratio decreased for children from 2010 to 2020, it increased for seniors by 6.8 people.

At the top end of the age spectrum, the number of people over 100 increased by half, from more than 53,000 people to more than 80,000. The share of men living into old age also jumped, benefitting from a century of vaccines and antibiotic developments, improvements in surgery and better treatment of diseases, said Thomas Perls, a professor of medicine at Boston University.

“Many more people who have the genetic makeup and environmental exposures that increase one’s chances of getting to 100, but who would have otherwise died of what are now readily reversible problems, are able to fulfill their survival destiny,” Perls said.

More data

THE Census Bureau released two earlier data sets from the 2020 census in 2021: state population figures used to decide how many congressional seats each state gets and redistricting numbers used to draw political districts. Thursday’s data release was delayed by almost two years because of pandemic-related difficulties gathering the informa-

tion and efforts by the Census Bureau to implement a new, controversial privacy protection method that uses algorithms to add intentional errors to obscure the identity of any given respondent.

Th is was the first census since the US Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage in 2015, and it showed same-sex households made up 1.7 percent of coupled households. Since the census didn’t ask about sexual orientation, it didn’t capture LGBTQ+ people who are single or don’t live with a partner or spouse.

The median age varied widely by race and ethnicity. Non-Hispanic whites were the oldest cohort, with a median age of 44.5. Hispanics were the youngest, with a median age of 30; and a quarter of all children in the US were Hispanic. Black Americans who weren’t Hispanic had a median age of 35.5. The number was for 37.2 for Asians.

Utah, home to the largest Mormon population in the US, was the youngest state, with a median age of 31.3, a function of having one of the nation’s highest birthrates. The District of Columbia’s median age of 33.9 was a close second due to the large number of young, working-age adults commonly found in urban areas. North Dakota was the only state where the median age declined, from 37 to 35.8, as an influx of young workers arrived to work in a booming energy sector.

Maine was the oldest state in the US, with a median age of 45.1, as more baby boomers aged out of the workforce. Puerto Rico had a median

age in the same range, at 45.2, as an exodus of working-age adults left the island after a series of hurricanes and government mismanagement.

Older adults in four states—Florida, Maine, Vermont and West Virginia—made up more than a fifth of those states’ populations.

Su mter County, Florida, home of the booming retirement community The Villages, had the highest median age among US counties, at 68.5; while Utah County, home to Provo, Utah, and Brigham Young University, had the lowest at 25.9.

‘They can make it better’

AS one of the youngest baby boomers, Chris Stanley, 59, already lives in The Villages. She said her mission in later life is to let younger generations know they can affect change despite perhaps not having the same economic opportunities she did.

“I want to impart the urgency that I feel,” she said. “They can make it better.”

W hile people 65 and older made up 16.8 percent of the 331 million residents in the US in 2020, the share was still significantly lower than it was in countries like Japan, Italy and Greece, where the age cohort makes up between more than a fifth and more than a quarter of the population.

However, their share of the US population will continue to grow as baby boomers age.

“In the long run, immigration is the only way the United States is going to avoid population decline,” Cohen said.

ROWS of homes, in suburban Salt Lake City, on April 13, 2019. Utah, home to the largest Mormon population in the US, was the youngest state in the US with a median age of 31.3, a function of having one of the nation’s highest birthrates. AP/RICK BOWMER

RESIDENTS drive golf carts through the Lake Sumter Landing Market Square on August 12, 2021, in The Villages, Florida. Sumter County, Florida, home of the booming retirement community, The Villages, had the highest median age at 68.5, while Utah County, home to Provo, Utah, had the lowest at 25.9. AP/PHELAN M. EBENHACK

Friends to foes: How Trump and DeSantis’ relationship has deteriorated over the years

By Adriana Gomez Licon The Associated Press

Trump gave DeSantis’ gubernatorial bid an early boost by tweeting his support even before DeSantis formally entered the race. In his 2018 victory speech, DeSantis made sure to thank the president, saying, “I think we’ll have a great partnership.”

Here’s how DeSantis and Trump’s relationship has evolved—and broken down—as the two face off to take on Democrat Joe Biden: ‘Unite behind the Republican ticket’ DURING the 2016 presidential campaign, then-congressman DeSantis said he wouldn’t make an endorsement in the crowded field but would support the eventual nominee.

When that ended up being Trump, DeSantis issued a statement calling on fellow Republicans to back the celebrity businessman.

“It is now clear that Donald Trump will accumulate the delegates necessary to be nominated by the Republican Party,” DeSantis said in a statement, according to NPR.

“If we want to defeat Hillary Clinton and have a chance to change the trajectory of our country, we need to unite behind the Republican ticket this November.”

The Russia probe

EARLY in special counsel Robert Mueller’s investigation into potential ties between Trump’s 2016 campaign and Russia, thencongressman DeSantis stepped up to the president’s defense to offer his support.

“Whatever (Mueller) ends up doing, it does not have legitimacy, when you have all this evidence of tainted and political bias and the disparate treatment between Hillary Clinton and then how they are treating Trump associates,” DeSantis told Fox News commentator Lou Dobbs in one such TV hit in December 2017.

Tweet of support before gubernatorial campaign

BEFORE DeSantis entered the Florida governor’s race in 2018, he asked Trump to send out a tweet touting him as a good candidate.

Trump obliged.

“Congressman Ron DeSantis is a brilliant young leader, Yale and then Harvard Law, who would make a GREAT Governor of Florida. He loves our Country and is a true FIGHTER!” Trump tweeted in December 2017.

That ad with DeSantis building a wall out of his kids’ blocks ONE of the most memorable moments of DeSantis’ gubernatorial campaign was an ad with his children in which he shows voters just how devoted he is to Trump.

“Build the wall,” he says to daughter Madison as she stacks cardboard brick blocks.

Holding son Mason in his lap, DeSantis pretend-reads to him

from Trump’s “The Art of the Deal”: “Then Mr. Trump said, ‘You’re fired.’ I love that part.”

Another scene shows DeSantis holding a Trump campaign sign in front of Madison in a high chair:

“Make America Great Again,” DeSantis reads.

DeSantis thanks Trump in victory speech

AFTER narrowly winning his 2018 race, DeSantis singled out Trump in his victory speech as he recognized the many people who had supported his campaign.

“I’d like to thank our president for standing by me when it wasn’t necessarily the smart thing to do,” DeSantis said. “Mr. President, I look forward to working with you to advance Florida’s priorities. I think you’re going to get tired of me calling you asking you for things for Florida, but I look forward to that, and I think we’ll have a great partnership.”

Welcome to Florida, Mr. President IN 2019, Trump changed his residency from Trump Tower in New York City to Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, and held a “homecoming rally” with Gov. DeSantis near Miami.

“Welcome home to Florida,” DeSantis told him.

Trump quipped that DeSantis “better not be more popular in Florida than me” after extended cheers for the governor. He went on to suggest to the crowd that DeSantis should wear jackets less frequently so people know he’s not fat.

Early Covid-19 response

IN the first weeks of the coronavirus pandemic, Trump applauded DeSantis for how he had handled governing the response to the virus.

“He’s done a lot of things right. And he’s been truly—I mean, he cares so much about health care. He cares so much about the cost of prescription drugs. He’s been a fantastic governor for Florida. They’re very happy with him,” Trump said at a press conference.

DeSantis initially resisted issuing a statewide stay-at-home order but reversed course and issued it after facing pressure from Trump and White House advisers.

Trump jokes about firing

DeSantis if he loses Florida

AT a campaign event ahead of the 2020 election, Trump praised DeSantis and called him a friend but also joked that he would blame the governor if he did not win Florida.

“I’ll fire him somehow. I’m going to fire him. I will find a way,” he said.

Trump ended up winning Florida in 2020 by 3.4 percentage points—a bigger margin of victory than in 2016.

A Trump-DeSantis ticket?

TRUMP and DeSantis remained

publicly supportive of each other in early 2021—so much so that Trump even floated the Florida governor as a possible 2024 running mate.

“A lot of people like that,” Trump told Fox Business host Maria Bartiromo in April 2021. “You know, I’m just saying what I read and what you read. They love that ticket. But certainly Ron would be considered. He is a great guy.”

DeSantis becomes DeSanctimonious

AS DeSantis’ national profile began to rise, so did chatter about his potential as a 2024 presidential prospect—and the former president noticed.

“If I faced him, I’d beat him like I would beat everyone else,” Trump said of DeSantis in October 2021, while saying that he didn’t expect the governor to challenge him.

Days before the 2022 midterm election, Trump unveiled his new nickname for the governor: Ron DeSanctimonious. He then visited Miami for a rally to support US Sen. Marco Rubio—but not DeSantis, who was holding a separate campaign event that same day for his own reelection.

In the days following DeSantis’ reelection victory, Trump put out a statement knocking him as an “average REPUBLICAN governor with great Public Relations” and criticizing him for not ruling out a 2024 presidential bid.

“He says, ‘I’m only focused on the governor’s race, I’m not looking into the future.’ Well, in terms of loyalty and class, that’s really not the right answer,” Trump said. DeSantis, asked to comment on Trump’s remarks at a press conference, said being the target of attacks was simply part of the job.

“What you learn is all that’s just noise,” DeSantis said.

The attacks escalate

IN recent months, Trump has dramatically intensified his criticism of DeSantis, taking particular umbrage as what he sees as the governor’s ungratefulness.

“DeSantis got elected because of me. You remember he had nothing. He was dead. He was leaving the race. He came over and he begged me, begged me for an endorsement,” Trump told conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt in February. “He said, ‘If you endorse me, I’ll win.’ And there were tears coming down from his eyes.”

Trump’s campaign resurrected the 2018 DeSantis ad to remind viewers of Trump’s help in the governor’s political rise.

“Isn’t it time DeSantis remembers how he got to where he is?” the ad says.

Trump has also shared a photo

suggesting impropriety when DeSantis was a teacher two decades ago, despite no evidence of that; said DeSantis needed a personality transplant; and aired an ad accusing DeSantis of “sticking his fingers where they don’t belong”— a reference to a Daily Beast report that the governor once ate chocolate pudding with his fingers. On Wednesday, after DeSan -

tis’ presidential announcement on Twitter Spaces was plagued by glitches, Trump posted a video on Truth Social of a “Ron” rocket falling over and exploding.

DeSantis fights back–kind of ALTHOUGH the Florida governor has largely avoided confrontation with Trump, he has managed to throw a few jabs back.

As prosecutors prepared an indictment against Donald Trump in New York, DeSantis criticized the investigation but also said, “I don’t know what goes into paying hush money to a porn star to secure silence over some type of alleged affair.”

In a Piers Morgan interview that aired a few days later, he laughed off a question about the nicknames Trump was using for him.

“I don’t know how to spell DeSanctimonious. I don’t really know what it means, but I kind of like it. It’s long, it’s got a lot of vowels. I mean, so we’ll go with that. That’s fine. You can call me whatever you want, just as long as you also call me a winner,” DeSantis said.

On Wednesday, after launching his campaign, DeSantis avoided referencing Trump by name but made a subtle dig at him over national Republican election losses.

“We must end the culture of losing that has infected the Republican Party in recent years,” DeSantis said on Twitter Spaces. “The tired dogmas of the past are inadequate for a vibrant future. We must look forward, not backwards.”

FLORIDA Gov. Ron DeSantis, left, speaks alongside President Donald Trump during a roundtable discussion on the coronavirus outbreak and storm preparedness at Pelican Golf Club in Belleair, Florida on July 31, 2020. Before Trump and DeSantis were leading rivals for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, they were allies. AP/PATRICK SEMANSKY

MIAMI—It wasn’t always this way. Before Donald Trump and Ron DeSantis were leading rivals for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, they were allies.

NYC skyscrapers turn to carbon capture to lessen climate change

By Cathy Bussewitz AP Energy Writer

the first time to deploy this technology on a much smaller scale on residential buildings. New York City’s law requires buildings exceeding 25,000 square feet to reduce emissions. In Minnesota, Radisson Blu Mall of America, a hotel, has installed a system that captures carbon dioxide that’s eventually used to make soap.

Flying drones and chasing data, Guyana women join fight against climate change

By Dánica Coto The Associated Press

by just 5 percent to 6 percent, said Robert Niven, CEO of CarbonCure, which works with 700 concrete producers in 30 countries.

Yet just below in the basement is an unusual set of equipment that no other building in New York City— indeed few in the world—can claim. In an effort to drastically reduce the 30-story building’s emissions, the owners have installed a maze of twisting pipes and tanks that collect carbon dioxide from the massive, gas-fired boilers in the basement before it goes to the chimney and is released into the air.

The goal is to stop that climatewarming gas from entering the atmosphere. And there’s a dire need for reducing emissions from skyscrapers like these in such a vertical city. Buildings are by far the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions here, roughly two-thirds, according to the city buildings department. New York State’s buildings also emit more air pollution than any other state’s.

So building owners must make dramatic cuts starting next year or face escalating fines under a new city law. About 50,000 structures—more than half the buildings in the city, are subject to Local Law 97. Other cities such as Boston and Denver followed suit with similar rules.

As a result, property managers are scrambling to change how their buildings operate. Some are installing carbon capture systems, which strip out carbon dioxide, direct it into tanks and prepare it for sale to other companies to make carbonated beverages, soap or concrete.

They see it as a way to meet emissions goals without having to relocate residents for extensive renovations. In this case, the carbon dioxide is sold to a concrete manufacturer in Brooklyn, where it’s turned into a mineral and permanently embedded in concrete.

“We think the problem is reducing emissions as quickly as possible,” said Brian Asparro, chief operating officer of CarbonQuest, which built the system. “Time is not on our side, and this type of solution can be installed quickly, cost-effectively and without a major disruption.”

Yet critics, many of them representing environmental groups, say building managers should be going much further: They argue that to achieve meaningful reductions in emissions, buildings should be significantly upgraded and switched to renewable-powered electricity instead of continuing to burn fossil fuels. They also express concerns about the safety of storing large amounts of carbon dioxide, an asphyxiant, in

a densely populated community.

“Carbon capture doesn’t actually reduce emissions; it seeks to put them somewhere else,” said Anthony Rogers-Wright, director of environmental justice at New York Lawyers for the Public Interest. “The emissions still exist. And we should be clear that the only way to reduce emissions...is to stop emitting.”

It’s still unclear whether carbon capture technology will even be recognized by New York City as a qualifying emissions reduction; the city has yet to decide. Asparro and others are trying to persuade city officials to accept it.

Capturing the culprit

IN the basement of the Upper West Side apartment building, two hulking 500-horsepower boilers rumble, burning natural gas and releasing carbon dioxide. The boilers, which are expected to last another 10 or 20 years, produce roughly half the building’s emissions, Asparro said.

The other half of the emissions that, in the city’s view, the building is responsible for, are those generated at the power plants where the building gets its electricity. The carbon capture system, Asparro said, is trapping about 60 percent of the boilers’ emissions. All told then, including the electricity to power the system, it’s reducing the building’s emissions by roughly 23 percent.

“Boilers like this are installed everywhere, in schools and hospitals around the world,” Asparro said. “It’s a really big challenge that buildings are facing in order to reduce emissions.”

The carbon dioxide and other gases are diverted from the chimney and piped into a room where a few parking spaces have been repurposed to house the carbon capture system. The gases flow over a special material that separates out the carbon dioxide. Then it’s compressed and cooled to minus-10 degrees Fahrenheit (minus-23 Celsius), turning it into liquid that’s then stored in tanks. That process takes energy, and capturing carbon dioxide does increase the building’s electricity use, but overall the system is still reducing the building’s emissions.

More pipes lead to spigots outside the building, where a truck pulls up once or twice a week to load up with liquefied CO2. The truck carries it through city streets and across a bridge to Brooklyn, where it’s sold to a concrete manufacturer.

Carbon capture technology has existed on an industrial scale for decades, used by oil and gas companies and some manufacturing plants to capture climatewarming carbon dioxide and either sell it, or use it to wrestle more oil from underground.

But now a handful of green tech companies and building owners are trying for

Building owners that can afford to pay for carbon capture equipment do receive some federal tax breaks for installing the systems. There are other incentives available to help update buildings, according to NYC Accelerator, a program that helps homeowners and property managers find ways to reduce emissions.

To reduce energy use, the apartment building also has computerized motors, fans and pumps, LED lighting and battery storage, said Josh London, senior vice president at Glenwood Management Corp., which manages the building. The company plans to install carbon capture systems in five other buildings this year.

Without action, similar high-rise buildings could face fines of nearly $1 million annually starting in 2030, Asparro estimated.

Nearly 70 percent of New York City’s large buildings have steam boilers that run on natural gas or oil, according to NYC Accelerator. Many have heating systems more than a half-century old, and often they’re under-maintained, said Luke Surowiec, director of building decarbonization at ICF, a consulting firm that manages NYC Accelerator.

“Our buildings are very old and inefficient, and that’s the reality,” Surowiec said. “There are a ton of opportunities that haven’t been realized.”

Mineralizing into concrete

OVER in Brooklyn, the floor rattles and shakes as yellow machines churn at Glenwood Mason Supply Company Inc., a concrete maker unrelated to Glenwood Management Corp. Grey blocks rattle down a conveyor line under a din of metal gears and motors. Somehow, birds have moved in and fly between towering piles of blocks.

It’s into this clamor that a truck delivers the liquefied carbon dioxide collected at the Manhattan apartment building. Then, using equipment provided by a company called CarbonCure, the liquid carbon dioxide is compressed and turned into a solid.

As concrete ingredients churn in a structure resembling a pizza oven, the carbon dioxide, now essentially dry ice, flows in like a mist. The carbon dioxide reacts with calcium ions in cement, one of the ingredients of concrete. This forms calcium carbonate, which becomes embedded in the concrete.

Once carbon dioxide is in that mineral state, it’s secure and it won’t be released unless it’s heated to about 900 degrees Celsius (1652 degrees Fahrenheit), said Claire Nelson, a geochemist that specializes in carbon capture at Columbia Climate School.

“So unless a volcano erupts on top of your concrete building, that carbon is going to be there forever,” Nelson said.

One main ingredient of concrete is cement, which contributes about 7 percent of all greenhouse gas emissions worldwide, according to a study by PBL Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency.

Adding mineralized carbon dioxide to concrete can reduce its carbon footprint, though not by much. On average, concrete producers using CarbonCure technology reduce their carbon footprint

Connie Cincotta, owner of Glenwood Mason, said her company takes other measures as well, for example to reduce the amount of cement in its concrete mix, by adding post-industrial glass that would have gone to landfills.

“If there’s any way we can get cement out of the mix, that’s helpful,” she said.

The company’s concrete blocks with mineralized CO2 have been used in buildings owned by Amazon and a Manhattan charter school, among others.

Questions remain MANY environmental groups remain skeptical of carbon capture and instead favor investing in a transition to renewable energy. They also fear that it could be unsafe to store carbon dioxide, which in extreme concentrations can lead to suffocation, in a residential dwelling.

After a carbon dioxide pipeline ruptured in Satartia, Mississippi, in 2020, 45 people sought medical attention at local hospitals, including people who had been caught in a vapor cloud while driving, according to a report from the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration. People exposed to high concentrations of carbon dioxide, the report said, may experience rapid breathing, confusion, elevated blood pressure and increased arrhythmias. Extreme concentrations of carbon dioxide can lead to death by asphyxiation.

Storing concentrated carbon dioxide under a residential building is worrisome, because “in the case of Mississippi, people weren’t actually living right on top of it,” RogersWright said. “We’re talking about big buildings here in New York City. So the risks are unknown, but they certainly are apparent.”

There’s also a risk of leaks, he said, if a truck transporting carbon dioxide were to get into an accident.

Proponents of carbon capture technology respond that there are safeguards to prevent such scenarios. The carbon capture technology installed in the Manhattan apartment, Asparro said, was permitted by multiple city agencies.

“We have carbon dioxide everywhere in cities,” he added. “Hospit als, restaurants, breweries—all utilizing carbon dioxide. And it’s being done in a fairly safe and manageable way.”

Nelson, the Columbia geochemist, who also started a carbon capture company, contends that having natural gas stored in basements is more dangerous than storing carbon dioxide, and many people accept those risks posed by natural gas.

The biggest challenge, proponents say, is scaling this and other solutions fast enough to make a difference in climate change.

That’s why proponents say many solutions should be deployed at once.

Back in Manhattan, powering the apartment building entirely with renewable electricity isn’t possible yet because the local utility doesn’t have enough renewable energy to sell to all New York customers, London said.

And “with solar, you need a bigger footprint than what we have in a building like this,” he added.

London said he wants to buy power from wind farms once it becomes more widely available.

But “that’s going to take a long while, so I don’t think we have the luxury of sitting,” he said. “We can reduce our emissions while we wait for that.”

RUBY VILLAGE, Guyana—A small group of Indigenous women in northern Guyana are the latest weapon in the fight against climate change in this South American country where 90 percent of the population lives below sea level.

Armed with drones, the women are scanning mangrove forests for illegal cutting and expect to soon start collecting soil samples and mangrove litter to measure the carbon held in remote coastal ecosystems that have long been out of reach for scientists. Such data could nudge the government to create policies and programs to protect critical areas.

“We are merging traditional knowledge and scientific research to get all this information that we need but never had before and couldn’t afford to get,” said Annette ArjoonMartins, head of Guyana’s Marine Conservation Society.

The women’s work is considered key for Guyana, a small nation about the size of Britain that has a 285-mile-long (459 kilometers) coastline whose coastal plains lie an average of 6 feet (2 meters) below sea level. The coastline depends on a centuries-old sea defense system created by the Dutch during the colonial era. It includes a 280-mile (450-kilometer) seawall and relies on dozens of workers who set alarms night and day to manually open and close sluice gates known as “kokers” that prevent the Atlantic Ocean from flooding Guyana.

By the mid-1990s, the Inter-American Development Bank already was advising Guyana to relocate communities inland since most of its 791,000 people live along the coast, and much of its economic activity and agriculture are based there. But people have been reluctant to leave.

A World Bank report has cautioned that “the impact of rising sea levels and intensified storm surges in Guyana would be among the greatest in the world, exposing 100 percent of the country’s coastal agriculture and 66.4 percent of coastal urban areas to flooding and coastal erosion.”

The community of Almond Beach in northern Guyana was forced to relocate several years ago after the ocean swallowed line after line of palm trees and began to lap at the school and other infrastructure, Arjoon-Martins said. Some 280 people once lived there; barely three dozen remain after a swath of land slipped underwater, she said.

Environmentalists say the work of the young Amerindian women will help them understand the challenges Guyana faces and what it can do to fight climate change as it prepares to become one of the world’s largest offshore oil producers.

By the end of the year, the women hope to start collecting data on how much carbon the coastal ecosystems around their villages are storing.

“We’ve never done a blue carbon baseline in Guyana before,” Arjoon-Martins said. “We want to quantify how much carbon this entire landscape stores, not just the trees.”

Knowing the baseline would help boost protection of that area and possibly lead to similar programs like the low-carbon development strategy launched in 2009 to protect Guyana’s forests, which cover nearly 90 percent of the country. That year, Norway signed a deal to provide $250 million in funding to ensure that Guyana’s 18 million hectares of forest remain intact. In December, Hess Corporation agreed to buy $750 million worth of carbon credits to protect those forests.

The indigenous women are gathering data and images at a crucial moment: Guyana is in the midst of an oil boom expected to make it the world’s fourth-largest offshore oil producer, raising concerns about potential oil spills and the oil’s contribution to the same climate change that threatens its existence.

An ExxonMobil consortium that includes Hess Corporation and China’s CNOOC is producing some 380,000 barrels of oil a day, a number that is expected to jump to 1.2 million by 2027.

Guyana Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, who helped launch the 2009 low-carbon development strategy when he was president and has long led the fight to protect the country’s forests and mangroves, dismissed environmental concerns tied to oil production and greenhouse gas emissions. He called the oil production a “little operation” and criticism from environmentalists as “nonsense.”

But environmentalists say they are greatly concerned about potential threats including oil spills.

Earlier this month, a court in Guyana ordered ExxonMobil to set aside sufficient funds in the case of such an event and threatened to suspend the country’s Environmental Protection Agency if the oil company does not take out unlimited liability insurance within 30 days. In its ruling, the court accused the EPA of being “derelict, pliant and submissive” in its alleged omissions. The agency appealed and lost.

ExxonMobil has filed its own appeal, saying the court had “failed to recognize” that it and its partners have the ability to meet their financial obligations and that it already has insurance in place.

The concerns add to existing ones including the unlawful cutting of mangroves, fires, illegal construction and fuel pollution in rivers that the Amerindian women are scanning in the Barima-Mora Passage in northern Guyana.

Every three months, they fly their drones to inspect an area of some 47,000 hectares (116,000 acres) that includes 14,000 hectares (35,000 acres) of mangroves—Guyana’s largest mangrove forest ecosystem. Mangroves act as a natural buffer against rising sea levels and help protect from coastal erosion. The soil they grow in also absorbs large quantities of carbon

See “Drones,” A5

NEW YORK—From the outside, the residential high-rise on Manhattan’s Upper West Side looks pretty much like any other luxury building: A doorman greets visitors in a spacious lobby adorned with tapestry and marble.

The cyber gulag: How Russia tracks, censors and controls its citizens

By Dasha Litvinova The Associated Press

Estonia—When

That’s because she’s been detained five times in the past year, thanks to the system’s pervasive security cameras with facial recognition. She says police would tell her the cameras “reacted” to her—although they often seemed not to understand why, and would let her go after a few hours.

“It seems like I’m in some kind of a database,” says Maksimova, who was previously arrested twice: in 2019 after taking part in a demonstration in Moscow and in 2020 over her environmental activism.

For many Russians like her, it has become increasingly hard to evade the scrutiny of the authorities, with the government actively monitoring social media accounts and using surveillance cameras against activists.

Even an online platform once praised by users for easily navigating bureaucratic tasks is being used as a tool of control: Authorities plan to use it to serve military summonses, thus thwarting a popular tactic by draft evaders of avoiding being handed the military recruitment paperwork in person.

Rights advocates say that Russia under President Vladimir Putin has harnessed digital technology to track, censor and control the population, building what some call a “cyber gulag”—a dark reference to the labor camps that held political prisoners in Soviet times.

It’s new territory, even for a nation with a long history of spying on its citizens.

“The Kremlin has indeed become the beneficiary of digitalization and is using all opportunities for state propaganda, for surveilling people, for de-anonymizing Internet users,” said Sarkis Darbinyan, head of legal practice at Roskomsvoboda, a Russian Internet freedom group the Kremlin deems a “foreign agent.”

Rising online censorship and prosecutions

THE Kremlin’s seeming indifference about digital monitoring appeared to change after 2011-2012 mass protests were coordinated online, prompting authorities to tighten Internet controls.

Some regulations allowed them to block websites; others mandated that cellphone operators and Internet providers store call records and messages, sharing the information with security services if needed. Authorities pressured companies like Google, Apple and Facebook to store user data on Russian servers, to no avail, and announced plans to build a “sovereign internet” that, if needed, could be cut off from the rest of the world.

At the time, many experts dismissed these efforts as futile, and some still seem ineffective. Russia’s measures might amount to a picket fence compared to China’s Great Firewall, but the Kremlin online crackdown has gained momentum.

After Russia invaded Ukraine

in February 2022, online censorship and prosecutions for social media posts and comments spiked so much that it broke all existing records.

According to Net Freedoms, a prominent Internet rights group, more than 610,000 web pages were blocked or removed by authorities in 2022—the highest annual total in 15 years—and 779 people faced criminal charges over online comments and posts, also a record.

A major factor was a law, adopted a week after the invasion, that effectively criminalizes antiwar sentiment, said Net Freedoms head Damir Gainutdinov. It outlaws “spreading false information” about or “discrediting” the army, using it against those publicly opposing the war.

Human Rights Watch cited another 2022 law allowing authorities “to extrajudicially close mass media outlets and block online content for disseminating ‘false information’ about the conduct of Russian Armed Forces or other state bodies abroad or for disseminating calls for sanctions on Russia.”

Social media users ‘shouldn’t feel safe’

HARSHER anti-extremism laws adopted in 2014 targeted social media users and online speech, leading to hundreds of criminal cases over posts, likes and shares. Most involved users of the popular Russian social media platform VKontakte, which reportedly cooperates with authorities.

As the crackdown widened, authorities also targeted Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Telegram. About a week after the invasion, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter were blocked in Russia, but users of the platforms were still prosecuted.

Marina Novikova, 65, was convicted this month in the Siberian city of Seversk of “spreading false information” about the army for antiwar Telegram posts, fining her the equivalent of over $12,400.

A Moscow court last week sentenced opposition activist Mikhail Kriger to seven years in prison for Facebook comments in which he expressed a desire “to hang” Putin. Famous blogger Nika Belotserkovskaya, who lives in France, received a nine-year prison term in absentia for Instagram posts about the war that the authorities claimed spread “fakes” about the army.

“Users of any social media platform shouldn’t feel safe,” Gainutdinov said.

Rights advocates worry that online censorship is about to expand drastically via artificial intelligence systems to monitor social media and websites for content deemed illicit.

In February, the government’s media regulator Roskomnadzor said it was launching Oculus—an AI system that looks for banned

content in online photos and videos, and can analyze more than 200,000 images a day, compared with about 200 a day by humans.

Two other AI systems in the works will search text materials.

In February, the newspaper Vedomosti quoted an unidentified Roskomnadzor official as lamenting the “unprecedented amounts and speed of spreading of fakes” about the war. The official also cited extremist remarks, calls for protests and “LGBT propaganda” to be among banned content the new systems will identify.

Activists say it’s hard to know if the new systems are operating and how effective they are. Darbinyan, of the internet freedom group, describes it as “horrible stuff,” leading to “more censorship,” amid a total lack of transparency as to how the systems would work and be regulated.

Authorities could also be working on a system of bots that collect information from social media pages, messenger apps and closed online communities, according to the Belarusian hacktivist group Cyberpartisans, which obtained documents of a subsidiary of Roskomnadzor.

Cyberpartisans coordinator Yuliana Shametavets told AP the state-created bots are expected to infiltrate Russian-language social media groups for surveillance and propaganda.

“Now it’s common to laugh at the Russians, to say that they have old weapons and don’t know how to fight, but the Kremlin is great at disinformation campaigns and there are high-class IT experts who create extremely effective and very dangerous products,” she said.

Government regulator Roskomnadzor did not respond to a request for comment.

Eyes on—and under—the streets

IN 2017-2018, Moscow authorities rolled out a system of street cameras enabled by facial recognition technology.

During the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, authorities were able to trace and fine those leaving their homes in violation of lockdowns.

That same year, Russian media reported schools would get cameras, too. Vedomosti reported they will be linked to a facial recognition system dubbed “Orwell,” for the British writer of the dystopian novel “1984,” with his all-seeing character, “Big Brother.”

When protests over the imprisonment of opposition leader Alexei Navalny broke out in 2021, the system was used to track down and detain those attending demonstrations, sometimes weeks afterward. After Putin announced

restrictions—like suspension of a driver’s license or a ban on buying and selling property—are imposed if they don’t comply with the summons within 20 days, whether they saw it or not.

Stanovaya believes these restrictions could spread to other aspects of Russian life, with the government “building a state system of total digital surveillance, coercion and punishment.” For instance, a December

Drones. . .

a partial mobilization for men to fight in Ukraine in September 2022, it apparently helped officials round up draft evaders.

A man who was stopped on the Moscow subway after failing to comply with a mobilization summons said police told him the facial recognition system alerted them to his presence, according to his wife, who spoke to AP on condition of anonymity because she feared retaliation.

In 2022, “Russian authorities expanded their control over people’s biometric data, including by collecting such data from banks, and using facial recognition technology to surveil and persecute activists,” Human Rights Watch reported this year.

Maksimova, the activist who repeatedly gets stopped on the subway, filed a lawsuit contesting the detentions, but lost. Authorities argued that because she had prior arrests, police had the right to detain her for a “cautionary conversation”—in which officers explain a citizen’s “moral and legal responsibilities.”

Maksimova says officials refused to explain why she was in their surveillance databases, calling it a state secret. She and her lawyer are filing an appeal of the court ruling.

There are 250,000 surveillance cameras in Moscow enabled by the software—at entrances to residential buildings, in public transportation and on the streets, Darbinyan said. Similar systems are in St. Petersburg and other large cities, like Novosibirsk and Kazan, he said.

He believed the authorities want to build “a web of cameras around the entire country. It sounds like a daunting task, but there are possibilities and funds there to do it.”

‘Total digital surveillance’

IN November, Putin ordered the government to create an online register of those eligible for military service after efforts to mobilize 300,000 men to fight in Ukraine revealed that enlistment records were in serious disarray.

The register, promised to be ready by fall, will collect all kinds of data, “from outpatient clinics to courts to tax offices and election commissions,” political analyst Tatyana Stanovaya said in a recent commentary for the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.

T hat will let authorities serve draft summonses electronically via a government website used to apply for official documents, like passports or deeds. Once a summons appears online, recipients cannot leave Russia. Other

law mandates that taxi companies share their databases with the successor agency of the Soviet KGB, giving it access to travelers’ dates, routes of trips and payment.

“The cyber gulag, which was actively talked about during the pandemic, is now taking its real shape,” Stanovaya wrote.

The Associated Press writer Yuras Karmanau in Tallinn, Estonia, contributed.

that would otherwise contribute to a warming Earth.

“It is me giving back to the environment,” said Shakira Yipsam, 19, who leads the drone team and lives in the Amerindian village of Aruka Mouth, located near a river that drains into the Atlantic.

The women’s mentor is 22-year-old Sarah Singh, who majored in marine biology and now works with the conservation society. She trained the women for up to eight months as part of a program that pays them roughly $700 a month. The program targets young women in Amerindian villages because “they’re usually the ones who leave school and start a family at an early age and don’t really have employment opportunities,” Singh said.

Their work builds on previous conservation efforts that included the replanting of seven miles’ (11 kilometers’) worth of mangroves across Guyana as part of a partnership with the European Union about a decade ago. That replanting led to another nearly 1,000 hectares (2,400 acres) of mangroves that regenerated naturally, Arjoon-Martins said.

Protecting and planting natural buffers like mangroves are key since rising sea levels and coastal flooding are a big concern in Guyana, whose name means “land of many waters.” Sea level rise here has been in line with the global average of 4 millimeters a year over the past 30 years, according to Steve Nerem, a sea level rise expert at the University of Colorado.

The narrow coastal strip where most people live and grow crops represents only 5 percent of Guyana’s territory and is intersected by three large rivers, according to a study published by professors at the University of Western Ontario.

The area has been affected by rainfall patterns that have changed and hit Guyana’s rice industry particularly hard, said Ulric Trotz, former deputy director at Belize’s Caribbean Community Climate Change Center.

“It’s leading to flooding, landslides and destruction of crops,” he said.

Major flooding events that Trotz attributes to climate change have been reported across Guyana in recent years, including in Mahaicony, southeast of the capital of Georgetown, where saltwater inundated swaths of farmland nearly two years ago, rendering it useless.

The magnitude of the floods, coupled with high tides, overwhelm the sluice gates and colonial-era seawall, but Arjune Lilmohan, 32, said he is not giving up the fight. Like dozens of other workers, he said he sets his alarm in the middle of the night to open and close the koker in his community because it’s his responsibility to protect Guyana from the Atlantic Ocean.

“If you sleep on the job, you get flood,” he said.

TALLINN,

Yekaterina Maksimova can’t afford to be late, the journalist and activist avoids taking the Moscow subway, even though it’s probably the most efficient route.

Continued from A4

YEKATERINA MAKSIMOVA enters a Moscow subway station in Moscow, Russia on May 22, 2023. The journalist and activist has been detained five times in the past year, thanks to the system’s pervasive security cameras with facial recognition. She says police would tell her the cameras “reacted” to her—although they often seemed not to understand why, and would let her go after a few hours. AP/ALEXANDER ZEMLIANICHENKO

By Calvin Woodward The Associated Press

MONTREAL—In the agonies of the virus that upended most of the world, millions of people from Bogota to Berlin saw what life could be like on two wheels instead of four.

Even as commuting to the office and going to school plunged at the height of Covid lockdowns, outdoor recreation, and cycling in particular, surged in country after country as people looked to escape isolation in a relatively safe way. In response, cities worldwide have developed bikeways with new urgency since 2020.

The question is whether people stick with their new cycling habit in these closer-to-normal times.

On Friday, Bike to Work Day in the US, the automatic counters that record each passing cyclist in many cities will get the latest numbers.

So far the evidence is incomplete and varies by place. But the numbers suggest that if they build it, people will come.

Case studies led by global urban planning researchers Ralph Buehler of Virginia Tech and John Bucher of Rutgers University track what more than a dozen cities have done in recent decades, and specifically during the pandemic, to improve pedal-powered commutes and recreation.

Already a world leader in bicycle friendliness, Montreal did more than any other North American city studied to expand safe cycling in the pandemic. London, Paris and Brussels did the most in Europe. But many more cities worldwide also seized opportunity in the crisis.

“A big paradigm shift in thinking is going on,” Buehler said in an interview. “In transport planning and policy and engineering, we have promoted driving for nearly 100 years. We have made driving fast, we’ve made it convenient.

“Now all of these cities and places are taking some of the space back. And giving it to bikes.”

Some steps have phased out as the virus has faded, like many of the temporary “pop-up” bike lanes that appeared as if overnight. But many have stuck, thanks to an increase in lanes with permanent barriers against traffic, central arteries where cars can’t go, and other concessions to a pent-up demand to get around without gas.

Environmental concerns have also been a motivation for many people to ditch cars for bikes, a choice that researchers say has clear benefits in reducing the carbon emissions that drive global warming and in curbing pollution broadly.

Here are snapshots of what some of the most ambitious procycling cities on three continents have done for cycling before and during the pandemic. The findings are drawn principally from the MIT-published book “Cycling through the Covid-19 Pandemic to a More Sustainable Transport Future,” by Buehler, chair of urban affairs at Virginia Tech, and Pucher, professor emeritus at Rutgers’ School of Planning and Public Policy:

Washington

IN 2001, the US capital offered cyclists a meager 3 miles (5 kilometers) of bicycle lanes, unprotected. By 2019, the network topped 100 miles, and bicycling as a share of all travel in the city

increased fivefold. In 2020 and 2021, the city picked up the pace even more, building nearly 20 miles (32 km) of protected lanes, much safer than merely marked lanes on streets shared with cars.

Montreal

AN innovator in urban biking since the late 1980s, Montreal was the first large North American city to develop an extensive network of physically separated on-street bicycle lanes, the book says. It was also first to introduce a large-scale bikesharing system, with its BIXI bikes in 2009.

In the five years before the pandemic, Montreal’s cycling network grew by 34 percent, topping 1,000 km (600 miles). Almost a third of that is made up of off-street paths and much of the rest is safely separated on shared roads.

The city’s pro-biking mayor, Valérie Plante, easily won reelection in 2021 on a platform of green initiatives. Underway is a major expansion of a new express bikeway network, Réseau Express Vélo or REV, that would double the city’s already sweeping cycling network in four years.

Austin, Texas

CONSIDERED the most pro-cycling large city in the US South, Austin doubled its network of protected on-street bike lanes to around 60 miles (97 km) in the first two years of Covid. From 2010 to 2019, the city had tripled its network of conventional onstreet bicycle lanes, to nearly 300 miles (480 km).

Bogota, Colombia

BOGOTA is a breakout success. By some measures, over 9 percent of trips in the capital are by bicycle, putting it in the top tier globally and a model that other cities in Latin America are trying to emulate.

That’s according to a study published before the onset of Covid-19 by Bogota civil engineers Daniel Rosas-Satizábal and Alvaro Rodriguez-Valencia. They attribute a “remarkable increase in bike ridership” to mayoral leadership, advocacy groups and a “latent bicycle culture” that emerged when officials put money into making streets safer. When the pandemic broke out, Mayor Claudia Lopez turned traffic lanes over to bicycles, among other steps, adding 85 km (53 miles) to the city’s network of bike paths.

Western Europe

PARIS saw cycling spike 60 percent in 2020-2021. Seen a quarter century ago as bicycle-unfriendly, the city has since taken striking measures to get people on wheels, even subsidizing one third of the cost for people to buy 85,000 electric bikes or cargo bikes from 2009 to 2022.

Cars were banned or relegated to single lanes on certain roads along the Seine River through

the center of Paris. London more than doubled its protected bike lanes when the virus bore in, bringing the total to 260 km (160 miles) in a year. This, after tripling their length in the decade before. Bucher and Buehler say the pandemic brought about the most rapid transformation of the streetscape in Greater London in decades, resulting in a sharp rise in both walking and cycling.

Back in 1998, 10 percent of trips in Berlin were by bicycle— a share many cities can only dream about even now. By 2018, that had grown to 18 percent. That’s in part because of Berlin’s configuration as a city of many neighborhood centers, with more people living close to where they work and shop. Early in the pandemic, city officials expedited a plan creating more bicycle lanes to meet demand.

In Brussels, cycling jumped 22 percent in 2020, then declined in 2021 but was still 14 percent higher than in 2019. That suggests that some people who took up biking when Covid arrived gave it up but more stayed with it. The city plowed 74 percent more money into cycling in 2020-2021. Brussels seems committed to making things more difficult for cars in the core. It plans to eliminate 65,000 parking spaces for cars by 2030, and is reconfiguring central streets to reserve the most direct routes for cyclists and public transit.

New York

THE city built over 60 miles (100 km) of protected bike lanes from 2019 to 2022, usually connecting them to protected intersections, and a larger number of regular bike lanes. Docking stations for CitiBike bike-sharing exceeded 1,500 in mid-2022, up from 860 in 2019.

During Covid’s peak in 2020, over 80 miles (130 km) of mostly neighborhood streets were closed to motor vehicles altogether during certain hours; that’s since been pulled back to 20 miles (32 km).

Minneapolis

FROM 2000 to 2017, Minneapolis bikeways more than doubled in length, cycling tripled and the share of cyclists who suffered severe injury or death plunged by nearly 80 percent, a not uncommon development in cities that aggressively expanded their networks. In the pandemic’s first month, the city announced it would quickly add 15 miles (24 km) of bike routes, closing many roads to traffic except for neighborhood residents.

Along with Montreal, Quebec City and select other cities in northern climes, Minneapolis is also big on bicycling through brutal winters. Researchers place Minneapolis with Denver and Chicago as mid-America standouts in advancing safer cycling.

Millions of people ditched cars for bikes during pandemic. These cities want the habit to stick

COMMUTERS wearing protective masks ride their bicycles in Bogota, Colombia on March 16, 2020. By some measures, over 9percent of trips in the capital are by bicycle, putting it in the top tier globally and a model that other cities in Latin America are trying to emulate. AP/FERNANDO VERGARA

Pills flowed for years as DEA dragged feet on disciplining opioid distributor

By Jim Mustian & Joshua Goodman The Associated Press

an obvious conflict of interest,” said Craig Holman, an ethics expert at the watchdog group Public Citizen in Washington. “The mere fact that its action has been delayed four years just raises red flags. It casts the entire process under grave suspicion.”

The DEA did not respond to repeated questions from The Associated Press about its handling of the case against Morris & Dickson Co. or the involvement of a highprofile consultant the company had hired to stave off punishment and who is now DEA Administrator Anne Milgram’s top deputy. But the delay has raised con

cerns about how the revolving door between government and industry may be impacting the DEA’s mission to police drug companies blamed for tens of thousands of American overdose deaths.

“If the DEA had issued its order in a timely manner, one could then credibly believe that its second-incommand was not involved despite

Last week, after the AP reached out to the DEA for comment, the agency broke its silence on the issue and abruptly notified Morris & Dickson that it has decided to revoke its registration to distribute controlled substances, according to two people familiar with the development who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the exchange. However, no final order has yet been published. The company has described revocation as a “virtual death sentence” and is almost certain to challenge the decision in federal court.

Louis Milione, who was named DEA’s principal deputy administrator in 2021, did not respond to requests for comment. He retired from the DEA in 2017 after a storied 21-year career that included two years leading the division that controls the sale of highly

addictive narcotics. Like dozens of colleagues in the DEA’s powerfulbut-little-known Office of Diversion Control, he quickly went to work as a consultant for some of the same companies he had been tasked with regulating, including Morris & Dickson.

Milione was brought in by Morris & Dickson as part of a $3 million contract to save its registration to supply painkillers after the DEA accused the company in 2018 of failing to flag thousands of suspicious, high-volume orders.

Testifying in 2019 before federal Administrative Law Judge Charles W. Dorman, Milione argued that Morris & Dickson “spared no expense” to overhaul its compliance systems, cancel suspicious orders and send daily emails to the DEA spelling out its actions.

But those efforts were too little, too late, the judge wrote in a 159page recommendation which has not been previously reported and was recently obtained by the AP. Anything less than the most severe punishment, he said, “would communicate to DEA registrants that despite their transgressions, no matter how egregious, they will get a mere slap on the wrist and a second chance so long as they acknowledge their sins and vow to sin no more.”

“Acceptance of responsibility and evidence of remediation are not get-out-of-jail-free cards that erase the harm caused by years of cavalier disregard,” Dorman wrote. “Allowing the respondent to keep its registration would tell distributors that it is acceptable to take a relaxed approach to DEA regulations until they are caught, at which point they only need to throw millions of dollars at the problem to make the DEA go away.”

Shreveport, Louisiana-based Morris & Dickson, the nation’s fourth-largest wholesale drug distributor with $4 billion a year in revenue and nearly 600 employees, did not respond to requests for comment. But the company repeatedly said in court filings that losing its license would effectively shut it down and have a “catastrophic” effect on patients in 29 states.

Neither Milgram nor two DEA administrators who preceded her have taken any enforcement action since Dorman’s 2019 recommendation, allowing Morris & Dickson to continue operating even as it pursued a potential settlement. Former DEA officials told AP a

nearly four-year wait in such a case is highly unusual, noting it rarely takes the agency more than two years to issue a final order.

Milgram’s management of DEA has been called into question on another front. AP reported last month that a federal watchdog is investigating whether the agency improperly awarded millions of dollars in no-bid contracts to hire Milgram’s past associates.

As for Milione, federal ethics rules bar government employees from taking part in decisions that could benefit companies where they previously worked, but DEA did not respond to questions about whether Milione recused himself from the matter. He would have also faced restrictions on his interactions with the DEA when he left government as a senior official— an issue the agency’s own lawyers raised in an attempt to disqualify his testimony in support of Morris & Dickson.

Milione, a lawyer and former bit Hollywood actor, impressed fellow DEA agents for his risk taking and toughness. Among his achievements was running the overseas sting that in 2008 nabbed Russia’s notorious arms trafficker Viktor Bout, aka “The Merchant of Death.”

But after taking over as the head of Diversion Control in 2015, he ended his predecessor’s refusal to meet with drug manufacturers and distributors and opened the DEA’s doors to the industry it was charged with regulating.

Among those Milione met with on at least two occasions was Paul Dickson Sr.—then-president of Morris & Dickson. That included a 2016 visit to the Louisiana headquarters with DEA investigators to discuss the company’s compliance program.

John Gray, the head of the Healthcare Distributors Alliance, a lobbying group that includes Morris & Dickson, recounted in a 2015 email how Milione, under orders from then-incoming DEA Administrator Chuck Rosenberg, wanted to “reset” relations with the drug industry. And Milione even delivered the keynote speech at the group’s annual meeting.

“Overall, he was engaging, exceedingly pleasant and seemed genuinely concerned that we had lost touch with each other,” Gray wrote. “It is a very different tone and approach than we have all seen in the past 8-10 years.”

Morris & Dickson had been punished for its mishandling of addictive drugs before. In 2019, before Dorman issued his recommendation, the company agreed to pay $22 million in civil penalties to resolve federal prosecutors’ claims that it violated the Controlled Substances Act by failing to report suspicious orders of hydrocodone and oxycodone. The company also agreed to multimillion-dollar upgrades of its compliance program to ensure it reports suspicious orders moving forward.

The case drew far less attention than the enforcement actions DEA took in recent years against Morris & Dickson’s larger competitors, a trio of pharmaceutical distributors who have agreed to pay the federal government more than $1 billion in fines and penalties for similar violations. Cardinal Health, AmerisourceBergen and McKesson also agreed to pay $21 billion over 18 years to resolve claims as part of a nationwide settlement.

Among the more than 12,000 suspicious orders that Dorman said Morris & Dickson should have reported to the DEA were 51 unusually large orders of opioids made by Wilkinson Family Pharmacy in suburban New Orleans.

Wilkinson purchased more than 4.5 million pills of oxycodone and hydrocodone from Morris & Dickson between 2014 and 2017, and federal prosecutors say during that time owner Keith Wilkinson laundered more than $345,000 from illegal sales made with forged prescriptions or written by “pill mill” doctors.

In one month, as many as 42 percent of all prescriptions filled by Wilkinson were for painkillers and 38 percent of those were paid for in cash. The DEA considers a pharmacy’s sales of controlled substances suspicious whenever they surpass 15 percent or cash transactions exceed 9 percent.

Yet Morris & Dickson never suspended any shipments to the pharmacy. Over three years, it filed just three suspicious order reports to the DEA—none of which resulted in shipments being suspended.

“Anybody with half a brain could’ve seen something wasn’t right,” said Dan Schneider, a retired pharmacist near New Orleans whose fight to hold drug companies accountable for the opioid epidemic was featured in a Netflix documentary series. “They were way out of line.”

SHREVEPORT, La.—The US Drug Enforcement Administration has allowed one of the nation’s largest wholesale drug distributors to keep shipping highly addictive painkillers for nearly four years after a judge recommended it be stripped of its license for its “cavalier disregard” of thousands of suspicious orders fueling the opioid crisis.

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AN automatic system drops pharmaceutical orders on a conveyor belt to be placed into boxes at Morris and Dickson Co., in Shreveport on July 13, 2016. The US Drug Enforcement Administration has allowed one of the nation’s largest wholesale drug distributors to keep shipping opioid painkillers for nearly four years after a judge recommended in 2018 it lose its license for its “cavalier disregard” of thousands of suspicious orders fueling the opioid crisis. HENRIETTA WILDSMITH/THE SHREVEPORT TIMES VIA AP

UPD-CS acts to boost PHL’s scientific output with better procurement process

Invent School gets Neda nod as priority DOST program

THE University of the PhilippinesDiliman College of Science (UPD-CS) already produces a sizable share of the Philippines’ total scientific output, but aims to further this by improving and hastening its procurement of resources.

“As much as 44 percent of all the publications in UP Diliman come from the College of Science. This is equivalent to 10 percent of the output of the entire UP system, and 2.5 percent the output of the entire country,” UPD-CS Dean Giovanni Tapang said at the recent launch of the college’s training partnership with the UP Procurement Office (UPPO).

With over 400 faculty members, half of whom hold doctorate degrees, the UPD-CS is at the forefront of scientific research in the Philippines.

Besides this, the college also mentors a significant portion of the country’s future science, technology, and innovation leaders: it currently produces over 300 graduates each year at the undergraduate and graduate levels combined.

Yet, in 2019 alone, the Philippines only had 189 scientists per million populations—a far cry from the ideal 380 scientists per million, according to data from the National Academy of Science and Technology.

Tapang hopes to boost UPD-CS’ capacity

to address this gap by implementing better procurement processes, a UPD-CS news release said.

“We need to know how to spend money wisely to get things done. We want our people to know what to do so they can conduct their research as efficiently as possible. It’s not a science per se, but it can be solved by science,” he said.

Tapang underscored the direct importance of the procurement process on scientific research itself, pointing out that streamlining these procedures would have a positive impact on the college’s output.

UPPO Director Atty. Flor Rissa Ofilada concurred, even as she underscored the crucial roles of both researchers and administrators in scientific advancement, the news release said.

“At each stage of the procurement process, the end users assume a crucial role as the process’ main actors. They are the initiators,” Ofilada said.

“Our research assistants and administrative officers are important, as they are the main driving force behind procurement not only in the College but also in the university. No procurement activity can occur without their proactive involvement,” she added.

DA, IRRI to hold intl rice congress in Oct

THE Department of Agriculture (DA) is co-organizing with the International Rice Research Institute the International Rice Congress (IRC), the largest gathering of the stakeholders of rice-based food systems worldwide in the Philippines from October 16 to 19, an IRRI news release said.

“Rice is one of the priority areas of the Philippine government to achieve food self-sufficiency and improve the lives of Filipino farmers. At IRC 2023, we can learn about recent advancements in genetic, digital, and nature-based solutions, offering valuable insights to address the various challenges faced by the rice industry in the Philippines,” said Agriculture Undersecretary for Rice Industry Development Leocadio Sebastian.

The IRC that started in 2002 has served as a platform for scientists, experts, and decision makers from the government, private and public sector to develop evidence-based solutions to the challenges of the global rice sector.

Rice, being the staple food for more than half of the global population, remains a critical commodity for farmers, consumers, and government decision makers.

“While IRRI is excited to showcase cutting-edge technology, and breakthrough studies and innovations from different parts of the world during IRC 2023, we would like to emphasize the urgency to focus the discussions on how to provide holistic science-based solutions to the combined impacts of climate extremes, looming rice crisis, conflict and economic shocks to the rice value chain,” said IRRI Director General Jean Balié.

“We look forward to meeting longtime partners and collaborators as well as new players in the agri-food, climate

change, and nutrition sector and learn from each other,” Balié said.

This year’s IRC will have the theme, “Accelerating Transformation of RiceBased Food Systems: From Gene to Globe,” to highlight solutions and innovations that could help address critical issues on agriculture and climate change, food and nutrition security, environmental sustainability, and human and economic development.

The conference will provide a unique opportunity to convene globally leading experts in agricultural industry, research and development, academia and civil society to network with individuals and organizations, and harness each other’s potential and find areas of collaboration.

This year, the sixth edition of IRC will be held in the Philippines, at the Philippine International Convention Center, which has recently been declared as a Natural Cultural Treasure for its richness in Filipino history, heritage and culture.

Previous IRC were held in Beijing (2002), New Delhi (2006), Hanoi (2010), Bangkok (2014), and Singapore (2018). This will be the first time that the conference will be held in the Philippines, the headquarters of IRRI.

During the last IRC, around 1,500 delegates from 64 countries participated, including high-level representatives from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, the World Food Programme, International Fund for Agricultural Development, governments of India, Uganda and Singapore, Bayer Crop Science, Oxfam, and Corteva Agriscience. The event also featured over 300 poster presentations and at least 400 research presentations of different studies across the globe.

IRRI is a member of CGIAR, the world’s largest agricultural research partnership dedicated to a food-secure future.

The National Priority Plan is a list of the Philippine government’s priority activities, projects and programs in the areas of science and culture, education, health, youth and sports development, human settlements, and economic development.

The list is issued annually by Neda as mandated in the National Internal Revenue Code.

With its inclusion in this year’s list, the Invent School of the Technology Application and Promotion Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-TAPI) is eligible to receive tax-deductible donations from various partners and organizations, particularly in the private sector, to help broaden and strengthen the implementation of the program.

“Neda’s endorsement came at a perfect time for DOST-TAPI as we are all excited to bring back the Invent School inside classrooms and face-to-face with students after years of holding the program online due to the pandemic,” said DOST-TAPI Director Atty. Marion Ivy Decena.

“This will help us amplify the scope and coverage of the Invent School by bringing in new partners who will help us ignite the spark of ingenuity among our youth and inspire them to pursue their inventive ideas,” Decena added.

As a flagship program of DOST-TAPI, the Invent School serves as a platform to stimulate creativity and inventiveness among elementary pupils, high school and college students.

Through highly interactive seminar-workshops, the program teaches students about techniques in creative and innovative think-

ing, which are crucial in developing ideas for their inventions and prototypes.

The program also aims to raise awareness, appreciation and understanding of intellectual property rights among its young participants.

Since 2008, Invent School has reached around 10,000 students in more than 1,500 schools from all over the country.

“We hope that with new donors and partners, we can increase these numbers and bring the Invent School to all 60,000 schools across the Philippines,” Decena said.

“We welcome the support and contribution of groups, organizations and industries—particularly in the sectors of education, technology and telecommunications—in providing the necessary resources for expanding the Invent School in the regions and provinces, especially in underserved areas,” she pointed out.

The Invent School Program has worked with agencies within the DOST to enrich its implementation.

It collaborated with the Philippine Science High School to increase its pool of mentors, and with the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development to launch an online learning platform for the program.

The program was also a key component of DOST-TAPI’s Project SciNing, which was a recipient of Neda’s Innovation Grants for 2022.

The Invent School contributed to project outcomes in promoting the adoption of local inventions and technologies, and developing

the capacities of the youth in creativity and innovation.

‘Lalem Palayangan:’ Dreams of Basilan youth MEANWHILE , Sheilaika, Shernalyn and Andayang may look like regular students from the island of Basilan, but their big dreams and aspirations carry the heart and soul of a new documentary produced by DOST-TAPI.

Lalem Palayangan (Paglipad nang Malalim) chronicles the lives of the three senior high-school girls as they embark on their journey to discovery and innovation through the Invent School Program, which was brought to Basilan for the first time by DOSTTAPI under its Project SciNing initiative.

Through Project SciNing, DOST-TAPI adapted the Invent School to incorporate mentorship with outstanding Filipino inventors.

“It has been our goal to weave an inclusive narrative where everyone plays a role in the greater tapestry of our visions,” said Project SciNing head Marvin Eric de la Cruz. “Project SciNing hopes to be a precursor of meaningful discussions and innovation stories that we could all relate to as Filipinos with shared aspirations.”

Excitement, hope through Invent School

LALEM PALAYANGAN sheds light on common challenges faced by students in island provinces like Basilan, including limited access to resources, connectivity and infrastructure, as well as the lack of opportunities to pursue the field of science and technology.

Despite their situation, Sheilaika, Shernalyn and Andayang, along with their peers and newfound friends from various schools in Lamitan and Maluso in Basilan, gained renewed excitement and hope to chase their dreams during their memorable time at the Invent School.

“I believe there is still a lot to learn when it comes to science, that is why it is important for all students to join and experience the

Invent School,” Andayang shared.

The documentary also highlighted Filipino inventors Jericho Castro and Jeremy de Leon, who joined the Invent School to showcase their TAPI-supported inventions.

Castro demonstrated his “Jerichord” guitar, a teaching instrument uniquely designed to help beginners learn guitar faster.

De Leon introduced his “Makeroscope,” a portable single-lens microscope for mobile gadgets, which the participants used to examine specimens they collected from the field.

In the film, local teachers, school heads and partners from the Ministry of Science and Technology of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao conveyed their immense gratitude to the Invent School program for igniting the spark of ingenuity and innovation among the Bangsamoro youth in Basilan.

Posible sa SciNing

DURING Lalem Palayangan’s recent premiere at the Posible sa SciNing gala, partners from Basilan, various government agencies, the science community and the private sector attended the event to celebrate the achievements under Project SciNing.

The gala also showcased a science-themed art and photo exhibit featuring the works of Invent School participants in Basilan, and launched the documentary’s official soundtrack, an original composition titled, “Walang Hadlang.”

“We helped amplify the stories of these students from Basilan, as well as of our local inventors,” de la Cruz said after the screening.

“How often do we see in the media our fellow Filipinos, especially young girls, from the farthest regions of our country? I think it is time to put the spotlight on them.”

He added, “Through this film, we hope to attract more partners who can hold the Invent School with DOST-TAPI, and to encourage stakeholders to adopt our local innovations on experiential learning in science and technology.” Lawrence San Diego/S&T Media Service

Searca, BSP convene experts, partners for sustainable agri-food systems in SEA

MORE than 100 experts and partners working in the agri-food sector gathered in a Roundtable Discussion Series on Sustainable Food and Agriculture Systems in Southeast Asia, jointly organized by the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (Searca) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), a Searca news release said.

The event brought together industry leaders, experts and stakeholders from across Southeast Asia, Europe, and the United States who shared experiences and insights in promoting digital technologies, carbon farming

in agriculture, and climate-smart innovations in the food and agriculture sectors.

Searca Director Dr. Glenn Gregorio and BSP

Monetary Board Member Dr. V. Bruce Tolentino opened the hybrid two-day roundtable discussions held at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) on April 18 and 19 and streamed via Zoom and Facebook.

Gregorio said that e nabling farmers to participate in digital economies and in organizing and accrediting carbon farming initiatives requires interdisciplinary and collaborative actions. “Searca and the BSP partnered in holding

these roundtable discussions to bring together diverse perspectives and stakeholders to engage in open and constructive dialogue on advancing agricultural productivity and sustainability while encouraging regional cooperation in new initiatives that will connect farmers to digital economies and carbon markets,” he added.

Meanwhile, Tolentino shared that the BSP has launched its Sustainable Finance Roadmap and is pleased to partner with Searca in a shared endeavor toward sustainable development.

Tolentino also emphasized the role of telecommunications in financial inclusion.

“The opening up of the telecommunications sector will enable a new era of financial inclusion. This will also benefit many communities that are often excluded, including small farmers and fisherfolk in the isolated areas of the archipelagic Philippines,” he said.

Representatives from the embassies of Canada, France, Israel, the UK and the US also participated and showed their support for this initiative.

Nir B alzam, Deputy Chief of Mission of the Embassy of Israel in the Philippines, shared that some of Israel’s agricultural technologies are now being explored and used in Southeast

Asia, including the Philippines. He also mentioned capacity-building programs and small grants on agriculture offered by his country.

“Through collaboration, we can create sustainable solutions for the challenges facing the food and agriculture sector today.

On behalf of our mission, I’m renewing our commitment to support efforts that accelerate the digital transformation of the food and agriculture system in the Philippines and Southeast Asia. We will continue to collaborate and support Searca’s initiatives like today’s event,” Balzam said.

The RTD unveiled the Carbon Farming Consortium that is envisaged to foster regional cooperation and commitment to promote carbon farming in agriculture in Southeast Asia. Gregorio and Tolentino led the signing as a declaration of their commitment to support the consortium, the news release said.

BSP Deputy Governor Chuchi G. Fonacier issued a call for strengthened regional cooperation and affirming the BSP’s shared desire to break the barriers to sustainable food and agriculture systems and accelerate efforts to promote inclusive, sustainable growth in the region.

THE Invent School Program is certified by the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) as one of its priority government programs under its National Priority Plan for 2023.

DOST-TAPI’s Invent School aims to stimulate creativity and inventiveness among future scientists and inventors. DOST-TAPI PHOTO

LALEM PALAYANGAN (Paglipad nang Malalim) chronicles the lives of the three senior high-school girls as they embark on their journey to discovery and innovation through the Invent School Program. DOST-TAPI PHOTO

THE UPD-CS, led by its dean, Dr. Giovanni Tapang (seventh from right), and the UPPO, represented by its director, Atty. Flor Rissa Ofilada (sixth from left), are strengthening the procurement process towards accelerating the pursuit of science at the college. PHOTO BY SHEDY MASAYON

Priest: No commitment from EU banks to stop fossil fuel financing

“It’s disappointing, actually, because I am expecting them to be more receptive,” said Father Edwin Gariguez, who went to Europe to demand banks to sever their ties with corporations that are developing new fossil fuel operations in a biodiverse region in the Philippines.

The priest talked to Standard Chartered, Barclays, Deutsche Bank, UBS, and Crédit Agricole.

He returned to his home city of Calapan on May 19 without a single commitment from the European banks to back off from the polluting projects that are being laid out in his region.

“They said that they are not directly involved in financing or directly involved in LNG [liquefied natural gas] projects,” Gariguez told Vatican News.

The priest said that although this may technically be true, by lending or financing the corporations, such as Shell and local conglomerate San Miguel Corporation, they are in a way, facilitating the operation.

“We did not get any specific promise except that they will study about it, [or] that part of their corporate responsibility is to exercise due diligence. But no specific statement that they will not finance the projects anymore,” he added.

While Gariguez was made to sign a confidentiality clause that

prevents him from expounding on the details of his conversations with the banks, he said that generally, the banks were silent about their involvement with specific clients.

‘Not all about profit’ GARIGUEZ said that he tried to morally appeal to the banks to stop investing in those companies that ruin the Verde Island Passage (VIP).

“I told them that this is not all about profit because what is at stake is our environment, our threatened ecology,” he said.

“Our message is: your investment in this project would entail supporting project[s] that are causing negative social and environmental impact in this significant biodiversity hotspot in the Philippines,” said the priest when asked about his message to the banks.

The VIP is home to over 1,736 fish species, and 338 coral species, and houses about 60 percent of all known shorefish species in the world.

The priest also said that around 2 million fisherfolks depend on the VIP for their livelihood—all of which would suffer if the ecology in the area is destroyed.

Gariguez said that he told the banks to take into consideration these creatures and the people who depend on the VIP’s rich

natural resources.

“That is my appeal to them—it is not all about profit,” he said. Going after the bloodline GARIGUEZ and his team, Protect VIP, have developed a strategy to go after corporations that develop polluting projects in the region by taking them to court and choking their finances even if it drags them across the globe.

“What you can do in the Philippines would have very little effects and impacts. Because what is fueling, or the bloodline, of all these projects are the corporations. You have banks,” he explained when asked why he knocked on the doors of European banks.

“Because if the line of support and funding to them [corporations] were cut off, you can stop them,” he added.

In 2021, the country’s Energy ministry announced its plan to import 13 million metric tons per annum of LNG. The gas terminals and fossil gas power plant projects that the energy importation needs would be built on the VIP.

Laudato si’

WHILE Gariguez has been

Pope Francis expresses closeness to Chinese Catholics ‘who suffer’

VATICAN—“I wish to assure my thoughts and closeness to our brothers and sisters in China, and share in their joys and hopes. I offer a special thought to all those who suffer—pastors and the faithful—so that in the communion and solidarity of the universal Church they may experience consolation and encouragement.”

Pope Francis made this appeal for the Church in China on May 24 as he held his General Audience in St. Peter’s Square.

“We come before you today to implore your protection.

“Look upon the people of God and, with a mother’s care, guide them along the paths of truth and love, so that they may always be a leaven of harmonious coexistence among all citizens.

“When you obediently said ‘yes’ in the house of Nazareth, you allowed God’s eternal Son to take flesh in your virginal womb and thus to begin in history the work of our redemption.

advocating against polluting industries since the early 2000s, years before the publication of Pope Francis’s encyclical Laudato si’, he said that the encyclical served as a “vindication” to him by telling him that he is doing his Christian responsibility as a priest-environmentalist.

“Laudato si’” is a vindication for us that we are on the right track. That it is our responsibility as Christians to protect the environment,” he said.

He also pointed out that within the encyclical, the pope said that the world must do away with the use of “highly polluting fossil fuels,” which is part of his team’s campaign against LNG projects in the VIP.

Although the priest said that he was disappointed with the banks, he said that in the end, his team had some gains in being able to challenge the existing policies of banks on the part of climate and the environment.

Gariguez and his team continue to fight for the preservation of the VIP. The priest was slated for a congressional hearing in declaring the VIP as an environmentally critical area. Zeus Legaspi/Vatican News

Why Buddha has different birthdays around the world

WHEN Siddhartha Gautama was born, he was clearly no ordinary infant. According to Buddhist texts, he raised his hand to the skies and declared, “In the heavens above and below the heavens, I am the world’s most honored one. I will free all beings from birth, old age, sickness and death.”

Then the remarkable baby is believed to have received a first bath: streams of water poured by the gods Brahma and Indra—or flowing from two dragon kings’ mouths, depending on the legend.

This cleansing consecrated the Buddha-to-be as holy, signaling that even the gods recognized him as worthy of veneration.

Buddhists believe that several “buddhas,” or enlightened teachers, have been born throughout history.

Yet the title “the Buddha” typically refers to this historical figure, Siddhartha Gautama, who went on to found Buddhism.

Each year on the Buddha’s birthday, East Asian Buddhists recreate his first bath by pouring water or sweetened tea over a statue of the infant.

The holiday has been observed in different parts of Asia for hundreds of years, but its significance varied by region.

In Sri Lanka, for example, it was a religious day simply celebrated at temples, not a public celebration.

In Korea, on the other hand, the Buddha’s birthday became a more commercial festival under the Choson dynasty, which frowned upon Buddhist religious practices and ended in 1910.

Buddhist reformers in the 19th and 20th centuries, however, deliberately emphasized the Buddha’s birthday in their efforts to unite Buddhist populations across countries and protect traditions from Christian missionaries.

In the late 1800s, Sri Lankans successfully petitioned the British colonial government to allow celebrations for the Buddha’s birthday, which they deliberately modeled on Christmas—a model that caught on around Asia.

These efforts helped the Buddha’s birthday become a major global holiday, but celebrations still take place on different dates and with different traditions.

As a scholar of Buddhism who studies the religion’s transmission from India to China, I am keenly aware of how people adapt practices and ideas to their own cultures.

One Buddha, many dates

IN South Asia and Southeast Asia, the Buddha’s birthday is celebrated on the full moon of the second lunar month, known as Vesākha or Vaiśākha.

In Sanskrit, a full moon is “Pūr ṇ imā,” which is why the holiday is often called Buddha Pūr ṇ imā, Vesak or Wesak.

Vaiśākha corresponds to April and May of the Gregorian calendar, so in 2023, people in countries like Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Laos and Burma celebrated the Buddha’s birthday on the full moon of May 5.

Buddhists in East Asia, however, mark the Buddha’s birthday on the eighth day of the fourth lunar month—and follow a different lunisolar calendar, too.

In China, Vietnam and Korea, Buddha’s birthday was celebrated in 2023 on May 26.

But there are even more variations. The Taiwanese government decided in 1999 to celebrate the Buddha’s birthday jointly with Mother’s Day, on the second Sunday in May.

In Japan, meanwhile, the Buddha’s birthday is called “Flower Festival”—Hana Matsuri in Japanese— and celebrated on April 8, following the government’s decision to adopt the Gregorian calendar in 1873.

Yet another date for the Buddha’s birthday in 2023 is June 4: the full moon of the fourth lunar month in the Tibetan lunisolar calendar.

The entire month, called Saga Dawa, is considered holy because it includes the Buddha’s birth, awakening and death.

Tibetan Buddhists believe that good deeds generate exponentially more positive karma during Saga Dawa than at other times of the year.

The date of the Buddha’s birthday isn’t the only difference between cultures.

In South Asia and Southeast Asia, including Tibetan regions, Vesak doesn’t just commemorate the Buddha’s birth, but also his attainment of nirvā ṇ a, or enlightenment, and his death, known as parinirvana.

In East Asia, however, the Buddha’s enlightenment and passing are honored on separate days, so the spring holiday only focuses on the Buddha’s birth.

China: Care for creatures

THROUGHOUT East Asia, Buddhists will bathe statues of the

At the end of his general audience, the pope recalled the Church’s celebration of “the World Day of Prayer for China, which coincides with the feast of Our Lady, Help of Christians, venerated and invoked in the Shrine of Our Lady of Sheshan in Shanghai.”

In his appeal, the Holy Father invited all Christians to “raise their prayers to God, so that the Good News of Christ crucified and risen may be proclaimed in its fullness, beauty and freedom, bearing fruit for the good of the Catholic Church and all of Chinese society.”

Among the faithful present in St. Peter’s Square on Wednesday were several chaplains who serve the Chinese Catholic community in various parts of Italy.

Pope Benedict XVI instituted the World Day of Prayer for the Church in China in 2007, to be held annually on the Feast of Mary Help of Christians, venerated and invoked at the Shrine of Our Lady of Sheshan in Shanghai.

The late pope also composed the following prayer to Our Lady of Sheshan in 2008:

“Virgin Most Holy, Mother of the Incarnate Word and our Mother, venerated in the Shrine of Sheshan under the title ‘Help of Christians,’ the entire Church in China looks to you with devout affection.

“You willingly and generously cooperated in that work, allowing the sword of pain to pierce your soul, until the supreme hour of the Cross, when you kept watch on Calvary, standing beside your Son, who died that we might live.

“From that moment, you became, in a new way, the Mother of all those who receive your Son Jesus in faithand choose to follow in his footsteps by taking up his Cross.

“Mother of hope, in the darkness of Holy Saturday you journeyed with unfailing trust toward the dawn of Easter.

Grant that your children may discern at all times, even those that are darkest, the signs of God’s loving presence.

“Our Lady of Sheshan, sustain all those in China, who, amid t heir daily trials, continue to believe, to hope, to love.

May they never be afraid to speak of Jesus to the world, and of the world to Jesus.

“In the statue overlooking the Shrine you lift your Son on high, offering him to the world with open arms in a gesture of love.

Help Catholics always to be credible witnesses to this love, ever clinging to the rock of Peter on which the Church is built.

Mother of China and all Asia, pray for us, now and for ever.

Amen!” Deborah Castellano Lubov/Vatican News and CBCP News

infant Buddha-to-be, recite Buddhist scriptures and make donations to Buddhist temples—but there will still be a lot of diversity in these celebrations.

In China, the practice of “fangsheng,” or releasing animals, has been part of celebrating Buddha’s birthday since the 11th century. Devout Buddhists buy animals otherwise destined for slaughter and release them into the wild.

Recently, some cities in China have encouraged greater consideration of local ecosystems to prevent invasive species that worshippers release from crowding out native animals.

Another way Chinese Buddhists express compassion for all living beings is by avoiding meat for three days around the Buddha’s birthday— similar to the Tibetan practice of following a vegetarian diet during the month of Saga Dawa.

Korea: Lighting up the sky

KOREA was under Japanese imperial rule from 1910 to 1945. During that period, the Japanese government sponsored a joint Japanese-Korean celebration of the Buddha’s birthday that revived the holiday’s religious significance.

Though many Koreans opposed the Japanese occupation, some Korean Buddhists appreciated the opportunity to celebrate the Buddha’s birthday as a new pan-Buddhist holiday.

Korean celebrations of the Buddha’s birthday are distinctive for their use of lanterns, which represent the light of awakening and can also be used as vehicles for prayers and vows sent up toward the heavens.

Today in South Korea, colorful lantern displays and lantern parades mark the national holiday.

The Buddha’s birthday has even been observed in North Korea since 1988, despite the country’s general suppression of religious activity.

In 2018, the holiday served as an occasion for Korean unity, with Buddhists in North and South Korea jointly composing and reciting a prayer for the occasion.

Vietnam: Renewed traditions

IN Vietnam, the celebration of the Buddha’s birthday—known as Ph ậ t Đ ả n—was observed in the medieval period, often alongside prayers for rain.

However, celebrations seem to have faded over time until the festival was reintroduced in the early 20th century, when the holiday was gaining popularity throughout the region.

The holiday still remains somewhat obscure in northern Vietnamese villages, but has gained popularity elsewhere in the country.

Today, Buddha birthday celebra -

tions in Vietnam involve lighting paper lanterns, making offerings to the Buddha and praying for health and well-being.

Lotus-shaped lanterns are especially popular because they symbolize the ability to remain pure in an impure world, just like beautiful lotuses grow from murky swamps. Buddha birthday celebrations that fall earlier in the spring are often the ones international groups focus on. In 1950, the World Fellowship of Buddhists decided to make Vesak an international Buddhist holiday, commemorated on the first full moon of May.

Nearly 50 years later, the United Nations passed a resolution to recognize Vesak on the same day, in line with South Asian and Southeast Asian celebrations.

These official acts of recognition mark the importance of this holiday for Buddhists worldwide, but we should also remember the just-asmeaningful celebrations that come a few weeks later. Megan Bryson, University of Tennessee/The Conversation (CC) via AP

TOP European banks are evasive of the issues that come with funding fossil fuel projects in the Philippines, said a Filipino priestenvironmentalist.

FR . Edwin Gariguez speaks against Crédit Agricole’s investment on Shell. FR. EDWIN GARIGUEZ’S FACEBOOK ACCOUNT/VATICAN NEWS

LOTUS Lantern Festival “Yeon Deung Hoe” celebrating Buddha’s birthday in South Korea on May 11, 2013. KOREA.NET/KOREAN CULTURE AND INFORMATION SERVICE CC BY-SA 2.0

Editor: Lyn Resurreccion

Philippine warty pig, an ecological engineer

By Jonathan L. Mayuga

WILD boars, or “baboy damo” in Filipino, are hunted to the brink of extinction in many parts of the country. But did you know that they perform important ecosystem functions that warrant their protection and conservation?

Fortunately, at least one species continues to thrive on Mount Apo—the Philippine warty pig, one of the four endemic wild pigs that are hunted in the country for their meat.

While wild animals are threatened with extinction, even in the unprotected portions of Mount Apo, or areas outside the Mount Apo Natural Park (MANP), a protected area under the National Integrated Protected Areas System (Nipas) Act, a number of unique species continue to thrive, thanks to the strong protection provided by the Indigenous peoples (IPs) living in the area.

Population decline

THE ever-increasing environmental degradation across the country has led to the rapid decline of wild animal populations, including nonvolant, or landbased, mammals and avian species.

Moreover, several species are threatened with extinction due to human persecution and narrowed geographic ranges, authors of a recent peer-reviewed report said.

Some of the largest mammals in Philippine forests, including Philippine brown deer and the Philippine warty pig, are among them.

Also declining in number are some mammals in Mindanao forests, such as the Philippine tree squirrel (Sundasciurus philippinensis), large Mindanao forest rat (Bullimus bagobus), common Philippine forest rat (Rattus everetti), Mindanao treeshrew (Urogale everetti) and palm civet (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus).

Similarly, the population of bird species like the vulnerable giant scops-owl (Otus gurneyi) and Mindanao bleeding-heart (Gallicolumba crinigera) were observed to be declining due to anthropogenic pressures, Jayson Ibanez—one of the

authors of the study titled, “Inventory and abundance of nonvolant [land-based] mammals and birds in the unprotected regions of the Mount Apo Range”—told the B usiness M irror via Zoom on May 24.

Ecological engineers

THE authors of the study—that included Jhonnel P. Villegas, Jireh R. Rosales and Giovanne G. Tampos—consider wildlife, particularly nonvolant mammals and birds, “ecological engineers” that influence forest vegetation.

Published in the Journal of Threatened Taxa last month, the study that used camera trapping in 2016 and 2020, aimed to conduct a species inventory and assess the relative abundance of nonvolant mammals and birds in the Mount Apo Range.

Wildlife, such as nonvolant mammals and birds, play a vital role in the maintenance of ecosystem health. They are considered ecological engineers that influence forest vegetation,” the study revealed.

However, due to deforestation, habitat loss and human persecution, wildlife population has declined over the years, highlighting the need to strengthen the protection of Mount Apo’s unprotected regions against destructive human activities, added Villegas, a member of the faculty of Education and Teacher Training at Davao State University.

Villegas explained that the IP communities with ancestral domain rights or claims over vast tracts of lands need all the support— from the national and local governments, and from private institutions—for them to continue protecting the forests and be part of the solution rather than becoming part of the problem. “ While in some parts of Davao City, the IPs are receiving some level of support from the local government, they remain to be wanting,” he said.

Important ecosystem functions

WILD animals play important ecosystem functions.

Mammals r egulate prey populations,

facilitate seed dispersal and pollination, shape vegetation patterns and act as bioindicators of ecosystem health, the study said.

On the other hand, avian species are important pollinators, scavengers, predators, seed dispersers and ecosystem engineers.

Biodiversity-rich area

THE study highlighted the fact that Mount Apo, which hosts at least three pairs of the critically-endangered species, maintains a highly diverse species of plants and animals despite the many anthropogenic threats (or environmental change caused or influenced by people) that pushes these already endangered animal species to the brink of extinction.

Mount Apo is at the heart of the Mount Apo Natural Park (MANP), an Asean Heritage Park (AHP), the Philippines’ eighth AHP, which means it is among the best of the best-protected areas in the Asean, said Asean Centre for Biodiversity (ACB) Executive Director Theresa Mundita S. Lim.

“[MANP] is one of the first protected established as an [AHP] back in 1984, primarily for being a known habitat of the endemic Philippine eagle,” Lim said.

She pointed out that other than the Philippine eagle, MANP is also a type locality, an area where species are first discovered from, for other unique species, such as the Mount Apo lorikeet, some Mindanao endemic mammals, such as the Mindanao forest mouse, the Philippine tree squirrel and the Apo myna that inhabit the forest Park.

Sought to comment on the study, Lim, a former director of Biodiversity Management Bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, explained that the recent study that documents Philippine species found inside the MANP, such as Philippine warty pig (Sus philippensis) and Philippine brown dear, are present as well outside unprotected portion of the Mount Apo Range, demonstrates that wild animal populations know no boundaries in their natural movements.

“It is, therefore, vital that some form of

sustainable management be put in place for corridors connecting already fragmented habitat ranges,” she suggested.

“Protected areas, such as the MANP, should not be viewed as isolated ‘islands’ of protection, but as part of an interconnected diversity of ecosystems, including urban ecosystems that require integrated action to sustain the benefits it can provide, not just for the wildlife, but for human communities that depend on it,” she said.

Key biodiversity area

THE study authors pointed out that Mount Apo Range is an important Key Biodiversity Area in the Philippines.

A large portion of Mount Apo is within the 64,000-hectare (ha) MANP, which has been the subject of several biodiversity conservation initiatives.

However, a significant portion of secondary and natural forests of the mountain range are left unprotected and, thus, receive fewer conservation initiatives, which is the focus of the new study.

The authors said the situation calls for intensive forest governance and conservation programs beyond the protected landscapes.

“Fortunately, there are IPs in the area because parts of the unprotected regions of Mount Apo Range overlap with the Obu Manuvu Ancestral Domain that is inhabited mainly by the Obu Manuvu people,” Ibanez said.

For the Obu Manubu, the forest is “pusaka,” where an indigenous practice is held to sanctify biotic and abiotic materials that have value to their community. It prohibits hunting wildlife species in most parts of the forest. Only some parts are allowed for hunting, provided that a ritual is performed before the activity.

Camera trapping

BESIDES conducting a species inventory and assessing the abundance of nonvolant mammals and birds in the area through camera-trapping, the researchers also discovered the anthropogenic threats in the area.

A total of 1,106 camera trap days were carried out in 2016 and another 500 days in 2020.

Based on 260 independent sequences in the surveys, 12 species were identified— eight nonvolant mammals and four birds.

Besides the Philippine warty pig (Sus philippensis), among the identified species are the endangered Philippine brown deer (Rusa Marianna), Philippine long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis philippensis) and the vulnerable Giant Scopsowl (Otus gurneyi). Unidentified rodents were also detected in the camera traps.

Unregulated forest clearing

THE authors deployed the camera traps with the help of IPs who are “converts,” or hunters-turned-forest protectors.

They noted the existence of unregulated forest clearing in some parts of Mount Apo Range.

It was observed in barangays Carmen and Tawan-Tawan, where around three hectares of trees and undergrowth forest were shaved. This was also observed at an even larger area downstream in the Kalatong River, where more than 10 hectares of forest were shaved and converted into a grazing area for cattle.

Almost the same forest cover was lost in Kagawasan, Barangay Tambobong, which is now being occupied by some 100 individuals, who have settled in the area.

Tree farmer

A PHILIPPINE warty pig was caught on camera for the first time, doing what they do best—cultivate the soil by digging to find food, and make holes to create a wallowing area, as if to allow seeds that fall from nearby trees to grow on later on—the perfect natural reforestation process.

Moreover, a single camera trap in the 2016 survey captured videos of at least three animal species that used the same Philippine warty pig wallowing hole as drinking and bathing spots. It was also used as a wallowing hole for other species, such as the Philippine dear and the giant scops owl.

T his was the first documentation in the Philippines of other forest vertebrates drinking and bathing from the wallowing pit of warty pig.

According to the authors, wallowing is a very important behavior and provides multiple physiological and welfare benefits to warty pigs, the study explained.

“For the first time, using camera traps, we were able to learn of their behavior in the wild,” Ibanez pointed out.

Nutrient recycling

MORE than just a game for hunters, the warty pigs are also scavengers that feed on animal carcasses in the wild. In removing dead animals, like vultures, warty pigs recycle nutrients that are used by plants.

The Philippine warty pig also help prevent the spread of diseases that could lead to an outbreak that can threaten to wipe out the local animal population in the area, or worse, cause a pandemic threatening the human population.

“They help prevent the spread of diseases,” said Dr. Emilia Lastica Ternura of the University of the Philippines Los Baños College of Veterinary Medicine.

There are incidences of mass die-offs due to suspected African swine fever (ASF) affecting Philippine warty pig populations in some parts of Visayas and Mindanao, particularly in Tagum City, she said.

“This happened in 2019, almost the same time that the ASF started to affect areas along the trading path of imported swine,” Temoura added.

She warned that stronger protection measures must be put in place in the wild, particularly against hunters and even mountaineers who climb Mount Apo and other areas, to protect wild animal populations like the so-called ecological engineers from being wiped out by zoonotic diseases, such as the dreaded ASF.

O therwise, she said there’s a chance that the Philippine warty pig and other wild pig species in the country may eventually become instinct.

By

Photos by Nonoy Lacza

SAYING the time has come to save Panaon Island in the southern tip of Southern Leyte, lawmakers have joined hands with international nongovernment organization Oceana to mount a photo exhibit capturing the breathtaking beauty of its biodiversity, in hopes of getting it declared by law as the Panaon Island Protected Seascape (PIPS).

The island has coral reefs with up to 60 percent of very good coral cover, way above the national average of only 20 percent, according to briefing notes provided to media.

T he proposed seascape, PIPS, has an area of about 61,204 hectares, or 612.04 sq km covering the municipalities of Liloan, San Francisco, Pintuyan and San Ricardo in Southern Leyte.

On May 15, the House of Representative’s Committee on Natural Resources provisionally approved the consolidated bill for the proposed Panaon Island seascape law pending the submission of a minor revision to the technical description from the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (Namria).

The mapping authority committed to submitting this by next week.

On Tuesday the photo exhibit, “Panahon ng Panaon,” was launched—with the

awesome images on display represented in this page by B usiness M irror s Nonoy Lacza.

Oceana and Southern Leyte Second District Rep. Christopherson “Coco” Yap led those expressing optimism that the House of Representatives will pass the bill declaring Panaon Island as a protected seascape within this year.

They were joined by Nueva Ecija Fourth District Rep. Emerson Emeng Pascual, Cebu Second District Rep. Eduardo Roa Rama Jr., Bukidnon Fourth District Rep. Laarni Lavin Roque, Oceana Acting Vice President Atty. Rose Liza Eisma Osorio, and Assistant Director Armida Andres of Department of Environment and Natural ResourcesBiodiversity Management Bureau.

In filing his bill, Yap said Panaon Island is located at the southern tip of Southern Leyte, which boast of coral reefs that are in good to excellent condition—a rarity in the country nowadays. Identified as part of the priority reefs that will highly likely withstand the devastating impacts of climate change, the urgency to protect the reefs of Panaon Island is highly emphasized,” Yap said.

For her part, Southern Leyte First District Rep. Luz Mercado, one of the authors of the bill, said the establishment of the Panaon Island Protected Seascape is pursuant to the declared policy of the State to advance and protect the constitutional right to a balanced and healthful ecology

in accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature of all the Filipino people of present for future generations.

Mercado added that the State shall protect the nation’s marine wealth in its archipelagic waters, territorial sea and exclusive economic zone, and reserve its use and enjoyment exclusively to Filipino citizens, the objective of the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System Act.

“ We need to have more marine protected areas, with our country having only 1.4 percent of our waters up to 200 nautical miles protected under the National Integrated Protected Areas System, as of 2020,” she said.

Mer cado said marine protected areas play a pivotal role in rebuilding fisheries, fighting overfishing, promoting food and nutritional security and strengthening climate mitigation and adaptation measures.

“With the Philippines considered among the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, the country needs more well-managed marine reserves that may help marine ecosystems and people adapt to five prominent impacts of climate change: acidification, sea-level rise, intensification of storms, shifts in species distribution, and decreased productivity and oxygen availability, as well as their cumulative effects,” Mercado added.

Jovee Marie de la Cruz

WHILE WILD ANIMALS ARE THREATENED WITH EXTINCTION, UNIQUE SPECIES ON MOUNT APO CONTINUE TO THRIVE DUE TO INDIGENOUS PEOPLES’ PROTECTION

‘PANAHON NG PANAON’: JOINING HANDS TO SAVE RICH BIODIVERSITY IN S. LEYTE

DIFFERENT damselfishes and chromis

RED-CHEEKED fairy basslets encircling a white gorgonian coral

SHARPNOSE puffer

VARIEGATED lizardfish

WASHINGTON— President Calvin Coolidge wasn’t as big a baseball fan as his wife, Grace. But even Silent Cal got swept up in the excitement of the Washington Senators’  unexpectedly successful season  in 1924.

A fter the team clinched the Aerican League pennant, the players swung by the White House to shake hands and pose for pictures with Coolidge.

It was the beginning of what would eventually become a tradition of victorious athletes visiting the president, and it’ll continue on Friday when Joe Biden hosts the championship men’s and women’s college basketball teams.

B ut what started as a nonpartisan rite of passage has become increasingly tangled up in politics , a shift that some peg to Bill Clinton’s presidency.

Tom Lehman, a professional golfer, declined a White House invitation and described Clinton as “a draft dodging baby killer.”

That’s really when it started,” said Fred Frommer, a former Associated Press journalist who has written about the history of sports and politics.

T here were scattered protests after that—a member of the Baltimore Ravens, for example, refused to visit with the rest of his football team because President Barack Obama supported abortion rights—but clashes proliferated under President Donald Trump.

W hen members of the Golden State Warriors suggested they would spurn a White House visit after winning the National Basketball Association title, Trump announced that the invitation was being withdrawn.

S ome of the players  instead visited the National Museum of African American History and Culture with local students.

M ore and more athletes started facing questions about whether they were willing to visit the White House. Frommer, who wrote “You Gotta Have Heart,” a book about Washington and baseball, said trips became “a bit of a litmus test.”

Biden, who has promised to turn down the temperature in Washington, has largely avoided such clashes. But sparks flew in preparation for Friday’s visit with the women’s team from Louisiana State.

A fter the Tigers won the NCAA championship this year, first lady Jill Biden made an offhand suggestion that a second invitation should also be extended to the team they defeated, the Iowa Hawkeyes.

L SU star Angel Reese called the idea “A JOKE” and said she would rather visit with Obama and his wife, Michelle. The LSU team largely is Black, while Iowa’s top

France’s first female Olympic president resigns

mirror_sports@yahoo.com.ph

Editor: Jun Lomibao

BRIGITTE HENRIQUES’S abrupt departure follows a period of intense infighting in French Olympic circles and prompted calls from Paris 2024 organizers for sports leaders to set differences aside and focus on delivering the Games. AP

SPORTS AND POLITICS AT THE WHITE HOUSE

PARIS—The president of France’s Olympic Committee resigned unexpectedly on Thursday, the latest leadership shake up of French sports amid preparations for the Summer Olympics in Paris next year.

Brigitte Henriques, a former soccer player on the French national team, was the first woman to lead Olympic sports in France. Her abrupt departure follows a period of intense infighting in French Olympic circles and prompted calls from Paris 2024 organizers for sports leaders to set differences aside and focus on delivering the Games.

“ The Games come around once every hundred years in our country: The sports movement must show up,” organizing committee president Tony Estanguet said in a statement.

France’s sports minister, Amélie Oudéa-Castéra, said: “There is no winner today.”

She urged French Olympic leaders to unite and focus on the Games, calling them “our main objective.”

The French Olympic Committee said Henriques announced at the start of a general assembly meeting on Thursday that she was stepping down. The committee statement did not give her reasons but said she explained them to the meeting’s attendees. She’d occupied the role since June 2021.

W ith the Paris Games less than 430 days away, the sudden void at the top of French Olympic sports will be temporarily filled by the Olympic committee secretary general Astrid Guyart. She will oversee the election process for a new president within three months, the committee said.

A s head of France’s Olympic Committee, Henriques was directly involved in the massive, complex and costly preparations for the 2024 Games, sitting as a member of the board of directors of the Paris organizing committee led by its president, Estanguet. As French Olympic Committee secretary, the new interim president, Guyart, was already a member of the Paris 2024 board, too.

player, Caitlin Clark, is white, as are most of her teammates.

At the beginning we were hurt.

It was emotional for us,” Reese told ESPN in a subsequent interview.

“Because we know how hard we worked all year for everything.”

Nothing came of the first lady’s idea, and only the Tigers were invited (and only champion Connecticut on the men’s side) Reese ultimately said she wasn’t going to skip the White House visit.

I’m a team player,” Reese said. “I’m going to do what’s best for the team.”

W hile Reese didn’t turn down the invitation, another group of champions will be skipping the White House altogether. Georgia’s football team said it could not

make it next month because of a scheduling conflict.

C oach Kirby Smart insisted that the decision had nothing to do with politics,  saying the invitation conflicted with hosting a youth camp around the same time. But who attends and who doesn’t is closely watched in the country’s charged political atmosphere. “ Sports are politics by other means,” said Jules Boykoff, a political science professor at Pacific University in Oregon. “Sometimes it’s very obvious, and sometimes it’s buried beneath the surface.”

The politicization of White House visits has overlapped with what Boykoff describes as the “athlete empowerment era.” At a time when

the country has experienced sweeping social movements, such as Black Lives Matter and #MeToo, athletes feel more confident using their platforms to share political messages, and they can use social media as a bullhorn.

We’re in a new era now,” he said.

B oykoff said White House events were once considered a “family friendly photo opportunity,” offering presidents a chance to show their lighter side. But given the country’s hyperpolarization, he said, the tradition may eventually run its course. And athletes may want the platform for themselves. It wouldn’t be surprising if they show up at the White House and have something to say, maybe even interrupt the proceedings,” he said.

Most of these visits have been memorable for more playful moments.

Harry Carson of the National Football League’s (NFL) New York Giants dumped a bucket of popcorn on President Ronald Reagan’s head in 1987, mimicking their tradition of dousing the coach with a Gatorade bucket after a win.

I n 2021, Los Angeles Dodgers’ pitcher Joe Kelly showed up at the White House in a mariachi jacket that he got off a musician.

A nd just last month, Biden was presented with a helmet by the Air Force Academy’s football team. The president chuckled.

W ith his job, he said, “I may need that helmet.” AP

Jockeys, too, suffer from mental health, stress, suicidal tendencies

BALTIMORE—Eurico Rosa da Silva was in a dark place.

O n the track, the jockey in his early 30s was winning races and making money. At home, he was fighting suicidal thoughts every day. I got to the point where I have no more choice but to go for help,” he recalled recently. “I went because if I have no choice, I would kill myself.”

Da Silva got help in 2006 and rode for more than a decade before retiring. He’s one of the lucky ones.

E arlier this year, horse racing was stunned by the suicides less than six weeks apart of two young jockeys, 23-year-old Avery Whisman and 29-year-old Alex Canchari.

A f riend of Whisman’s, Triple Crown-winning rider Mike Smith, said he has seen similar tragedies over three decades.

I know several riders that I knew very well committed suicide when it was all said and done,” Smith said. “This is not all of a sudden just happening. It’s been going on. You just never heard of it.”

T he dangers of riding thoroughbreds at high speed add up to an average of two jockeys dying from racing each year and 60 being paralyzed, according to one industry veteran, citing data dating to 1940. C ombine that with criticism

from owners, trainers and bettors and the need to maintain the low weight necessary to establish a career, and jockeys have been quietly suffering for as long as they have been riding horses.

W hile jockeys interviewed for this story worry that racing has lagged behind other sports in accepting the importance of their mental health on the job, there is hope that renewed conversation about it prompts real change.

This needs to be addressed,” jockey Trevor McCarthy said. “We take a lot of beatings mentally and physically. With the mental and physical state, when you mix both of them together, it can be a recipe for disaster. Look, there’s proof of it, right? We lost two guys.”

M cCarthy last year, like da Silva before him, sought help before it was too late. His father was a jockey, as is his father-in-law and his wife, Katie Davis McCarthy. They are all used to the ups and downs of the job, from the broken pelvis and collarbone from his spill during a race in November to the uncertain hold on a ride.

A particularly rough summer, including flying up and down the East Coast to ride, took a toll on McCarthy, who at 118 pounds could feel his diet and lack of calories affect his work. He wanted to quit.

“ I was going absolutely nuts, and my body couldn’t handle it,” McCarthy said. “You’re constantly going through mind games. And I think a lot of guys get caught up in that with the weight and the mind game of not doing good or thinking they’re not good enough.”

His wife made him promise to talk to a sports therapist. McCarthy did so for months, learning how to find a better work-life balance that has helped him win 28 races already this year.

N ow 47, da Silva was named Canada’s best jockey seven times and is the Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame.

In 30 years of riding horses, I can say to you that I never heard anybody talk about the emotional pain, never talked about going for help,” said da Silva, who’s now a mental health coach and spoke Tuesday at the first jockey mental health symposium in Lexington, Kentucky. “I approached many jockeys that I feel like they need help, and many times I said, ‘Go for help.’ I motivate them to go for help. They just listen, but they don’t really want to talk about.”

D r. Ciara Losty of South East Technological University in Waterford, Ireland, pointed out that jockeys have an “underdeveloped sense of self inside of their sport,” compared to team sport or Olympic

W hile French sports have triumphed on the fields of play, led notably by victory in the 2018 soccer World Cup, they’ve been rocked by multiple leadership changes in the run-up to the Paris Games.

Noël Le Graët resigned as president of the French Football Federation in February after a government audit found he no longer had the legitimacy to lead because of his behavior toward women and his management style.

B ernard Laporte resigned as president of the French Rugby Federation in January after he was convicted of corruption and illegally acquiring assets and handed a suspended prison sentence.

L ast October, Claude Atcher was fired as chief executive of the Rugby World Cup that opens in France in September, and which also will serve as a test of France’s security preparations for the Olympics. Atcher’s removal followed an investigation by French labor inspectors into his workplace conduct. AP

athletes who are less likely to burn out because they seek out other activities. She said jockeys can also be less familiar with mental health topics because of low literacy levels and lack the support system of a coach or coaching staff.

Maintaining a low weight and obviously disordered eating is a big part of it,” said Losty, who  coauthored a 2018 study on jockey mental health . “Being a jockey, you have a risk of serious injuries, and if you’ve had a serious injury the fear of re-injury when you engage or get back up on the horse again may impact your performance or lead you to some kind of distress.”

D r. Lewis King, now at Ireland’s Technological University of the Shannon,  did his doctoral degree  in 2021 on the subject because he wanted to explore what makes jockeys susceptible to mental health problems and what stopped them from seeking help. In talking to 84 jockeys in Ireland, he said, he found 61 percent met the threshold for adverse alcohol use, 35 percent for depression and 27 percent for anxiety.

K ing’s research showed that despite nearly 80 percent of jockeys having at least one common mental health disorder, only a third saw a professional. He said most feared losing their jobs. AP

PRESIDENT Calvin Coolidge signs a baseball for Hall of Fame pitcher Walter Johnson as other members of the Senators look on in 1924, Bill Clinton throws a basketball presented to him by the Texas Tech Lady Raiders as University of North Carolina head basketball coach Dean Smith speaks during a Rose Garden Ceremony on April 28, 1993, President Donald Trump holds a New England Patriots football helmet and jersey on April 19, 2017, and Air Force quarterback Haaziq Daniels and running back Brad Roberts look on as President Joe Biden holds a football on April 28, 2023. AP

EURICO ROSA DA SILVA celebrates after winning the 151st Queen’s Plate aboard Big Red Mike at Woodbine Racetrack on July 4, 2010, in Toronto. AP

Why so many south Korean Women are refusing to date, marry or have Kids

‘MAY PINAGHUHUGUTAN’

Hugot Marcelo on helping podcast listeners move on

By Patrick V. Miguel

Interview by Edwin P. Sallan

BEFORE, he was known as Marcelo Santos III across social media. As a writer, people knew him from his “hugot” lines, quotations from his works that deal with heartbreak and lamentation of failed relationships. That’s the brand Marcelo Santos III maintained for several years.

It was only last year when he discovered a new medium to express his “hugot” lines. He said that he was burned out from writing. “For 7 years na talaga ako into books nagsusulat and then, parang na burnout ako,” he said.

To deal with the burnout, Marcelo tried vlogging. Eventually, Spotify reached out to him and that was when he found his voice again not only as a writer but now as “Hugot Marcelo.”

to keep his podcasts shorter than usual. For him, 15 to 30 minutes is too long. That’s why he set his podcasts to 5 to 10 minutes duration.

Aside from giving out “hugots” to his listeners, he also provides pieces of advice to his listeners who reach out to him.

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Gaining listeners was not difficult for Marcelo as he is already popular in social media, with 10 million followers on Facebook as of writing.

“Before pa naman, habang nagsusulat ako ng libro, mayroon na akong social media presence so parang nabubuo—nabuo ko na yung brand ko as hugot,” he said.

Marcelo shared that the initial title of his podcast was “Hugot nights with Marcelo.” But he was told that his brand as a “hugot” person is already there.

That’s where they came up with “Hugot Marcelo,” a simple two word title that entirely captures him and his social media presence.

He reflected, “Kilala kasi ako sa Marcelo so parang okay din— naging successful naman yung podcast ko.”

He shared that he gained new followers with his podcast “Hugot Marcelo.”

Marcelo shared, “‘Yung mga hindi ko follower before nagiging follower ko na ngayon dahil sa podcast, kumbaga parang dati nakilala ko ‘Marcelo as a writer’ tapos Marcelo as a nakikita sa Facebook, ngayon Marcelo na nasa podcast na.”

According to Marcelo, he tries

Kapag may problema ka, kwentuhan lang kita saglit tapos pag usapan na natin ‘yung pinagdadaanan mo… so nagbibigay din ako agad ng advice don sa podcast ko ,” he said.

Marcelo revealed that most of the pieces of advice he provides his listeners come from “personal

experience,” and the experience of his friends.

‘Sobrang hirap bumitaw’ ACCORDING to Marcelo, “pagbitaw” is the theme that mostly centers around his podcast.

He reiterated: “Ang hirap— pinaka sobrang hirap bumitaw.”

As Hugot Marcelo, he reflected on the interview, “Sobrang hirap lalo na kapag nakasanayan mo na, lalo na kapag naging parte na siya ng buhay mo ng araw araw mo.”

He added, “Sabi nga nila ‘yon ‘yung pinakamahirap na gawin, ‘yung pagbitaw, pero pinaka maganda na regalo pag malaya ka na.”

That’s how he got his podcast branded as a “post-break up” podcast.

He assured his listeners, “Nandiyan po ‘yung podcast ko to remind them na okay din bumitaw kung hindi na talaga and okay lang masaktan.”

Marcelo recounts that a lot of his listeners have messaged him, expressing gratitude as his podcast helped them deal with their own heartbreak. That’s what motivates Marcelo to keep going.

“Doon ako na momotivate, parang kahit doon sa 5-8 minutes and 10 minutes, mayroon akong natulungan na isang tao,” he said. “Sobrang rewarding niya.”

T. Anthony C. Cabangon

MARCELO Santos III aka Hugot Marcelo (Photos courtesy of Spotify)

‘A SURVIVOR AND A BADASS’

Tributes abound for fallen global superstar Tina Turner

By The Associated Press

“I’m so saddened by the passing of my wonderful friend Tina Turner. She was truly an enormously talented performer and singer. She was inspiring, warm, funny and generous. She helped me so much when I was young and I will never forget her.” — Mick Jagger said on Instagram. Turner performed with Jagger during a show in 1985 and toured with the band in the 60s.

“We have lost one of the world’s most exciting and electric performers. A total legend on record and on stage. She was untouchable. Condolences to Erwin and her family. The saddest news.” — Elton John said on Instagram.

“How do we say farewell to a woman who owned her pain and trauma and used it as a means to help change the world? Through her courage in telling her story, her commitment to stay the course in her life, no matter the sacrifice, and her determination to carve out a space in rock and roll for

herself and for others who look like her, Tina Turner showed others who lived in fear what a beautiful future filled with love, compassion, and freedom should look like. Her final words to me — for me — were “You never mimicked me. Instead, you reached deep into your soul, found your inner Tina, and showed her to the world.” I shall hold these words close to my heart for the rest of my days.” — Angela Bassett, who played Turner in the 1993 film “What’s Love Got to Do With It”

“Tina Turner was raw. She was powerful. She was unstoppable. And she was unapologetically herself—speaking and singing her truth through joy and pain; triumph and tragedy. Today we join fans around the world in honoring the Queen of Rock and Roll, and a star whose light will never fade.” — former President Barack Obama, on Twitter.

“In addition to being a once-ina-generation talent that changed American music forever, Tina’s

personal strength was remarkable. Overcoming adversity, and even abuse, she built a career for the ages and a life and legacy that were entirely hers.” — President Joe Biden, in a statement.

“Rest in peace to one of my favorite artists of all time, the legendary queen of rock n’ roll Tina Turner. I’ve seen her many many times and hands down, she gave one of the best live shows I’ve ever seen. She always gave you your moneys worth.” — NBA legend Magic Johnson, who posted a photo with him and Turner on Twitter.

“Cultural Icon down. Safe Journey Anna Mae Bullock . You were HERE.” — singer Erykah Badu said Instagram.

“Heaven has gained an angel. Rest in Paradise Tina Turner. Thank you for the inspiration you gave us all.” - singer Ciara said on Twitter.

“What a woman, what a life, what a warrior!!! The day I met you Ms Tina, I couldn’t believe I was standing in the presence of your greatness!! (Thanks to my big sis @oprah!!!) I got to celebrate and thank you for all the love you’ve poured out around u. The songs you sang gave us courage to step out and be our full selves. You are a fierce force as a woman and a performer! All of these things have been beacons of light for not only me, but all the people

around the world finding ourselves and our fearlessness, through our vulnerability!!” — Alicia Keys said on Instagram.

“Truest rocker. Greatest performer. Most profoundly sexy woman. What a dynamo, what a story, what a heroine. Always an energy inspiration for me, always tapping the source. Tina forever. Man. Always been in awe of her and the infinite power.” — Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist Flea said on Instagram.

“A Survivor and a Badass. Every note she sang shook the room and shook your soul. There will never be another like her. Shake the roof off of Heaven Tina Turner.” — musician Diane Warren said on Twitter.

“Tina Turner was iconic, talented, and fierce. What a journey. What a life, filled with great highs and great lows. She left an abusive marriage. She found love again. She made her way in this world, selling millions of albums. She became a mother, she experienced terrible sadness, and she still kept going. She brought joy to so many, even when she was experiencing such tragedy. I’ve always admired her. I first met her as a teenager and followed her throughout her inspiring life. May we honor Tina, and may we continue to play her music loudly and dance!” — journalist Maria Shriver said on Twitter.

ACOLLECTION of tributes that poured in Wednesday from musicians, actors and athletes following the death of musical superstar Tina Turner.

FLOWERS and tributes on Tina Turner’s star on Hollywood Walk of Fame AP

TINA Turner in 1985 AP

Why so many South Korean women are refusing to date, marry or have kids

By Min Joo Lee Indiana University

The animosity between Korean men and women has reached a point where some women are outright refusing to date, marry and have kids with men—a phenomenon known as the 4B movement. As a Korean feminist scholar living in the US, I’ve followed this gender war from afar as I conducted research on contemporary Korean gender politics.

However, I also became embroiled in it myself after my research on Korean masculinity was published by CNN.

The article described foreign women who traveled to Korea after becoming enamored of the idea of dating Korean men from watching Korean television dramas. I pointed out that since the tourists’ fantasies were based on fictional characters, some of them ended up disappointed with the Korean men they dated in real life.

The article was about racial politics and the masculine ideals. But some Korean readers thought that I was simply criticizing Korean men for not being romantic and handsome enough. One enraged Korean man commented that I was an “ugly feminist.”

But this was tame in comparison to what women living in South Korea have endured in recent years.

Extreme misogyny and a feminist backlash

Over the past couple of decades, there have been flash points in this gender war.

In 2010, Ilbe, a right-wing website that traffics in misogyny, started attracting users who peppered the forums with vulgar posts about women. Then in 2015, an online extremist feminist group named Megalia arose. Its goal was to fight back by demeaning Korean men in ways that mirrored the rhetoric on sites like Ilbe.

A year later, a man who had professed his hatred of women murdered a random woman in a public bathroom near a Seoul subway station. He was eventually sentenced to decades in prison, but the lines were quickly drawn.

On one side were feminists, who saw misogyny as the underlying motive. On the other side were men who claimed that it was merely the isolated actions of a mentally ill man. The two groups violently clashed during competing protests at the site of the murder.

A backdrop of digital sex crimes

HOw ever, none of these events have elicited as much public controversy as the steep rise in digital sex crimes. These are newer forms of sexual violence facilitated by technology: revenge porn; upskirting, which refers to surreptitiously snapping photos under women’s skirts in public; and the use of hidden cameras to film women having sex or undressing.

In 2018, there were 2,289 reported cases of digital sex crimes; in 2021, the number snowballed to 10,353. In 2019, there were two major incidents that involved digital sex crimes.

In one, a number of male K-pop stars were indicted for filming and circulating videos of women in group chatrooms without their consent. A few months later, Koreans were shocked to learn about what became known as the “Nth room Incident,” during which hundreds of perpetrators—mostly men— committed digital sex crimes on dozens of women and minors.

They tended to target poorer women–sex workers, or women who wanted to make a few bucks by sharing anonymous nude photos of themselves. The perpetrators either hacked into their social media accounts or approached these women and offered them money, but asked for their personal information so they could transmit the funds. Once they obtained this information, they blackmailed the women by threatening to reveal their sex work and their nudes to their friends and family.

Since sex work and posting nude images

of yourself online are illegal in Korea, the women, fearing arrest or being ostracized by friends and family, complied with the perpetrators’ demands to send even more compromising images of themselves. The men would then swap these images in chatrooms.

And yet a 2019 survey conducted by the Korean government found that large swaths of the population blamed women for these sex crimes: 52 percent said that they believed sexual violence occurs because women wear revealing clothes, while 37 percent thought if women experienced sexual assault while drunk, they are partly to blame for their victimization.

In other words, a significant percentage of the Korean population believes that female sexuality is the problem—not the sexual violence.

Government policy lays the groundwork

DIgI tA l sex crimes are too widespread to lay the blame at the feet of a handful of bad actors. to me, part of the problem stems from the long history of “gendered citizenship.”

Korean feminist scholar Seungsook Moon has written about the ways in which the government created one track for men and another for women as the country sought to modernize in the second half of the 20th century:

“Men were mobilized for mandatory military service and then, as conscripts, utilized as workers and researchers in the industrializing economy. Women were consigned to lesser factory jobs, and their roles as members of the modern nation were defined largely in terms of biological reproduction and household management.”

Although these policies are no longer officially carried out, the underlying attitudes about gender roles remain embedded in Korean life and culture. women who veer from being mothers and housewives expose them-

selves to public and private backlash.

‘The generation that has given up’ tODAy, the sense of competition between young men and women is exacerbated by the soaring cost of living and rampant unemployment.

Called the “N-Po generation,” which roughly translates as “the generation that has given up,” many young South Koreans don’t think they can achieve certain milestones that previous generations took for granted: marriage, having kids, finding a job, owning a home and even friendships.

Although all genders find themselves discouraged, the act of “giving up” has caused more problems for women. Men see women who forgo marriage and having kids as selfish. And when they then try to compete against men for jobs, some men become incensed.

Many of the men who have become radicalized commit digital sex crimes to take revenge on women who, in their view, have abandoned their duties.

Ultimately, the competitive dynamic created by the Korean government’s embrace of gendered citizenship has stoked the virulent gender war between Korean men and women, with digital sex crimes used as ammunition.

The 4B movement, whereby Korean women forego heterosexual dating, marriage, and childbirth, represents a radical escalation of the gender war by seeking to create an online and offline world devoid of men. r ather than engaging in altercations, these women are refusing to interact with men, period.

Digital sex crimes are a global problem

tO be sure, digital sex crimes are not unique to Korea.

w hen I teach my college class on digital sex crimes in the US, I’m surprised by how many of my students admit that they’ve been victims of digital sex crimes, or knew of it happening at their high schools. And at the National women’s Studies Association’s annual conference in 2022, I watched feminist activists and scholars from all over the world present their findings about digital sex crimes back home.

Since each country has its own cultural context for the rise in digital sex crimes, there isn’t a single solution to solve the problems. But in South Korea, continuing to unravel the system of gendered citizenship could be part of the solution. The Conversation

Cover photo by David Radomysler/pexels.com

Think you might be dating a ‘vulnerable narcissist’? Look out for these red flags

SINgle people are increasingly turning online to find love, with more than 300 million people around the world trying their luck on dating apps. Some find their fairy tale. But for others, stories of online dating have very different endings.

you may be ghosted after a seemingly blissful start, or strung along with just crumbs of attention. Perhaps you suddenly learn the person you’re dating isn’t who you thought they were.

If these scenarios sound familiar, you may have dated a “vulnerable narcissist.” Narcissism in a broad sense can be conceptualized as a personality trait that falls on a continuum. Those at the extreme end are

characterized by entitlement, superiority, and a strong need for attention, admiration and approval.

vu lnerable narcissism is characterized by high emotional sensitivity and a defensive, insecure grandiosity that masks feelings of incompetence and inadequacy. If you’re wondering whether you’re dating a vulnerable narcissist, look out for these red flags waving in sync.

1. v u lnerable narcissists are usually introverted and high on neuroticism. In isolation, these traits need not be of concern, but in vulnerable narcissists they typically present in combination with dishonesty, and

a lack of agreeableness and humility.

2. l ove-bombing is a manipulative dating tactic commonly used by vulnerable narcissists. It’s characterized by excessive attention and affection. w h ile this can be flattering in the early stages of a relationship, the intention is to manipulate you into feeling dependent on and obligated to them.

3. The devaluation phase follows love-bombing. It will often manifest in emotionally abusive behaviors such as harsh and relentless criticism, unprovoked angry outbursts, gaslighting and stonewalling.

4. Finally, vulnerable narcissists are hypersensitive to criticism. Constructive criticism is

an important component of communication in healthy relationships. But a vulnerable narcissist is likely to perceive the slightest criticism as a personal attack. They may respond to criticism with emotional outbursts, making you feel like you’re walking on eggshells.

5. The onset of narcissistic abuse is often slow and insidious, but the adverse effects (such as symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder) can persist long after the relationship has ended. If you have concerns, it’s important to seek support from your family doctor, a psychologist, or a domestic violence support service. They can help you navigate the relationship, or safely exit it. The Conversation

South Korea finds itself embroiled in an all-out gender war–and it keeps getting worse.

“A signifiCAnT percentage of the Korean population believes that female sexuality is the problem—not the sexual violence,” writes the author Min Joo Lee, a post doctorate fellow at indiana University. Photo by Pixabay/Pexels.com

Wine Dine&

A Taste of Cambodia through the 32nd SEA Games

By Brian K. Ong

WE trooped to Phnom Penh, the capital of the Kingdom of Cambodia, for the 32nd Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games). As the official hotel partner of the Philippine Esports Organization (PESO) and the Philippines’ Esports National Team, Sibol, Hotel101 Group was invited to personally witness our esports athletes battle it out in the SEA Games which happened last May 4 to 16, 2023.

A lthough we were just there for a few days, enough to witness the opening ceremony and a few games, we were not short of sampling the best of what Cambodian food has to offer, through our meetings and socials with some of the Philippine delegation.

A Glimpse CambodianofCuisine

Cambodian cuisine, just like the cuisine of any of its Southeast Asian counterparts, is deeply rooted in rich culture, history, and traditions, as well as influences from its neighboring countries. Cambodian food is a harmonious blend of flavors, textures, and aromatic spices. This culinary tradition reflects the country's agricultural abundance, the resilience of its people, and the deep connection between food and community.

Dating back centuries, it has evolved through a fascinating fusion of indigenous ingredients and culinary practices, as well as influences from neighboring culinary powerhouses like Thailand, Vietnam, and China. There are also

traces of French cuisine from the time when Cambodia was part of French Indochina. (The baguette, or the long French bread, is a part of the cuisine and has come to be Cambodia’s national bread.)

The result is a cuisine that stands on its own, characterized by its unique balance of sweet, sour, salty, and bitter flavors, as well as its emphasis on freshness and simplicity.

Food holds great cultural significance in Cambodia, where meals are seen as communal experiences that bring families and friends together. Traditional recipes are often passed down through generations, creating a sense of continuity and preserving the country's culinary heritage. From vibrant street food stalls to elaborate feasts prepared for special occasions, Cambodian cuisine reflects the country's cultural traditions, social customs, and spiritual beliefs.

At the heart of the country’s cuisine lies rice, just like the rest of Southeast Asia, a staple that occupies a central place on the dining table. It is the foundation of many

dishes, accompanied by a diverse array of proteins including fish, pork, and chicken. Fresh herbs and spices such as lemongrass, galangal, garlic, and turmeric add layers of fragrance and depth to the dishes, while aromatic pastes and

sauces like Kroeung and Prahok lend distinct flavors.

Cambodian food is renowned for its signature dishes that embody the essence of the country's culinary identity. From the fragrant Fish Amok, a delicately spiced fish curry steamed in banana leaves, to the comforting noodle soup Kuy Teav, each dish tells a story of the land and its people.

A nd in recent years, it has garnered international recognition, captivating the taste buds of food enthusiasts around the globe. As Cambodian cuisine continues to gain popularity, efforts are being made to preserve and promote its culinary traditions, ensuring that the legacy of this unique gastronomic heritage endures for generations to come.

Malis by Chef Luu Meng

One of the chefs behind the promotion of Cambodian cuisine is Chef Luu Meng. Chef Luu Meng is constantly experimenting with flavors and textures and digging out his country’s culinary secrets to be shared in the Malis kitchen.

Malis is a Cambodian restaurant which opened in 2004 in Phnom Penh, the first Cambodian fine dining restaurant in the city. It is a high-end restaurant which boasts a “Living Cambodian Cui-

sine.” “By researching, practicing, and promoting Cambodian cuisine, Malis aims to safeguard the nation’s food heritage for years to come.”

We got to try Takeo Sausages which were homemade pork sausages flavored with Malis spices and fine coconut shavings, served with a sweet chili sauce; the Green Mango and Smoked Fish which was a savory green mango salad with local smoked-dried fish for a mouthwatering combination of flavors.

The Chicken Curry Steamed in Lotus Leaf, which was chicken red curry and rice wrapped in a lotus leaf and steamed to bring out vibrant flavors, was not your ordinary curry. We also got to sample Saraman Beef. Rich and delicious, this recipe uses a special blend of kroeung cooked very slowly with coconut cream until the beef is tender and fully infused with flavors.

We ended our dining experience here at Malis with Cambodian Ice Cream (Kampot pepper, malis and coconut), It was homemade ice cream with seasonal Cambodian fruits.

Sombok by Chef Kimsan Pol

Sombok showcases the exceptional talents of the famed Chef Kimsan Pol, a local legend in the culinary scene as “she has skillfully risen to the top of an industry typically

dominated by males.”

Chef Kimsan has created an entirely new category for authentic Khmer fine dining which she first started at a Siem Reap restaurant called “Embassy”. She has brought their culinary skills to Phnom Penh at Sombok Restaurant.

Sombok is a celebration of the creativity of Khmer women and the best cuisine Cambodia has to offer. The name, Sombok, means “nest” and conveys the care and nourishment the restaurant provides its patrons.

The dishes we sampled included the Amok bangkang, which was river lobster pan-seared, salmon roe and creamy sabayon sauce; Stir fried seafood with chili paste which was stir-fried king prawn, squid, sea bass, salmon with chili sambal, spring onion, celery, fresh milk and coriander and roasted duck which was marinated duck with Sombok spices served with lime pickle sauce.

Every Day is A Wonder Cambodia is a mix of old and new. While Cambodia is more than Phnom Penh, one leaves the country with more wonder, especially if you’ve just seen, experienced, or even tasted a part of it.

Certainly, Cambodia leaves you more to wonder – with the famed UNESCO World Heritage site of Angkor Wat and the whole Angkor Archaeological Park with its ancient Buddhist temple complex and archaeological sites, some 300 or so kilometers northwest from Phnom Penh in Siem Reap, and a whole lot more places, through the Mekong Delta and those around the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam. And these places would give more depth and experience to understand Cambodian culture, its people, and its food.

A few days in Phnom Penh might not give justice to what Cambodian cuisine truly represents but given the time constraints and a handful of choices, I would bet on these restaurants to give you a glimpse and flare of what Khmer cuisine is or what it represents today – a wonderful mix of old and new.

Stir fried seafood with chili paste by Sombok.

Hotel101 Group General Manager Gel Gomez, Sales Executive JM Magalona, and this writer together with the official delegation from Philippine Esports Organization (PESO) and Team Sibol, POC and representatives from the 19thCongress, dine at Malis Restaurant in Cambodia

Malis is a Cambodian restaurant which opened in 2004 in Phnom Penh, the first Cambodian fine dining restaurant in the city.

Wat Klean Kleang or the Golden Temple in Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Green Mango and Smoked Fish by Malis Saraman Beef by Malis Amok bangkang by Sombok Cambodian Ice Cream (Kampot pepper, malis and coconut) by Malis

Roasted duck by Sombok

Famous Cebu Delicacies: A Checklist of Pasalubongs

hung in restaurants and hole-inthe-walls in Cebu, puso rice is a treasured Cebuano delicacy.

When you’re looking for the perfect pair for your chicharon, lechon, or longganisa, you can be sure that a steaming diamond of puso rice is the perfect match.

Puso is unique because the rice is cooked inside the woven coconut or banana leaf encasement. Once it’s finished steaming inside a barrel of boiled water, it’s ready to be delivered and hung in shops across Cebu. W hile some people may just think that it’s plain rice, the craftsmanship that goes behind the weaving of this product is what makes it unique to Cebu. Individuals will also not need a spoon or fork to eat this carbohydrate with their favorite viand.

Cebu Longganisa

A COMMON Cebu delicacy that’s bought as pasalubong is longganisa. Much like the northern provinces of the Philippines, Cebu also has its version of chorizo.

Cebu’s small and round longganisa differentiates itself from other types of longganisa by its seasoning. This longganisa has a flavor profile of being sweet, smoky, and spicy.

You can find chorizo to bring home as souvenirs in the palengke or grocery. Just make sure to pack these in a sealed bag to keep them preserved for your trip home.

Carcar Chicharon

IN THE city of Carcar, lies the home of Cebu’s chicharon. Chicharon from Carcar can have two variations: one that has skin and meat, and another that just has pork skin.

Regardless of the variant, chicharon is best eaten when it’s freshly cooked and is commonly paired with a bowl of vinegar. Carcar chicharon can be purchased in its public markets. Just make sure to save some to bring home with you as pasalubong because the delicious meaty taste of this chicharon is something you’ll surely miss once you’re away from Cebu.

CEBU is known as one of the country’s largest cities. Its bustling port, vibrant nightlife, and rich history give tourists and locals the chance to discover new delicacies and attractions in every corner. For every place to visit in Cebu, there’s likely a famous Cebu delicacy that you can enjoy and bring home as pasalubong to your friends and family – a reminder of your Cebu adventure.

In this guide, we list some of the best Cebu products and delicacies that you simply shouldn’t miss. Let’s get started on this epicurean journey.

Dried Mangoes

LET’S start off with the most

famous Cebu delicacy, dried mangoes. Cebu’s dried mangoes are known throughout the world as a favorite pasalubong for people leaving the country – OFWs and tourists alike. While this treat is readily available in supermarkets everywhere, nothing beats the price of dried mangoes straight from Cebu.

Philippine mangoes are exceptionally sweet, making them a delightful choice for a wide range of delectable desserts. However, fresh mangoes don’t hold well in transit and preserving their sweetness can be challenging.

Drying as a preservation technique extends the flavor of mangoes, allowing them to last longer, transported, and be shared with

more people. Like fresh mangoes, dried mangoes can also be used as an ingredient in different recipes.

If you’re on the lookout to purchase dried mangoes for pasalubong, you can head to Taboan Public Market to find these chewy treats packed and ready to go in various grammages. You may even find other Cebu food delicacies you can bring home in this area.

Masareal

ARE you looking to bring home a sweet nutty treat for your loved ones? Then, you can purchase a block or two of masareal – the sweetest peanut snacks that Cebu has to offer.

Masareal is one of Cebu’s best

delicacies that originates from Mandaue City. This dried doughy treat is made of a mixture of finely ground peanuts and sugar syrup that’s mixed, then laid out to dry before being cut into rectangular blocks and packaged in paper.

A favorite Cebu delicacy pasalubong destination that sells masareal is Didang’s. Didang’s is a crowd-favorite purveyor of masareal, otap, and rosquillos – so, choosing to buy your pasalubong at Didang’s is definitely a good decision.

Budbud

USUALLY eaten for breakfast or merienda, budbud is a rice cake that’s often topped with slices of ripe mangoes or paired with a steaming cup of sikwate.

Budbud is a famous Cebu delicacy that was conceived in Sogod. It’s made of coconut milk, glutinous rice, sugar, and ginger. These ingredients are combined in a pan and stirred continuously until it blends perfectly, a painstaking process that takes up to 15 minutes. Once the budbud mixture is homogenous, it’s packed in a banana leaf and is usually sold on the street, ready to be picked up by workers, students, and mothers who are looking for a quick breakfast.

One doesn’t need to look far to find stacks of budbud to bring home as pasalubong. This treat is commonly found on the street or in public markets, especially if you’re in Sogod.

Masi

THE town of Liloan also has its own entry for Cebu delicacies one should keep an eye out for, Masi.

Masi is a chewy peanut ball that’s made of glutinous rice and milk, which is stuffed with a

sweet peanut filling that’s made of peanuts, sugar, and coconut milk. This affordable snack is a favorite amongst Cebuanos and is made daily in huge batches ready to be purchased by anyone looking for a sweet treat.

Still not convinced? Then maybe it’s time for you to head over to Inday Eddies Homemade Masi in Liloan to try it for yourself.

Tablea

IN THE Visayas, households will have their own tree of cacao which they process to turn into tablea for their consumption. Locals of Cebu are no different and while some have kept their stock for their home, others who are blessed with larger lands have started to sell their tablea in the market.

Sikwate is the Cebuano term for hot chocolate. Bisayas take their hot chocolate seriously and prefer making it with a ratio of one to one. One cup of water is for one tablet of tablea. This mixture is boiled in a metal jug over the fire and is frothed by rolling a batirol between one’s hands.

Some people are happy with just a water and tablea mix, while others will add sugar and a splash of milk for extra sweetness.

Tablea is one of the best pasalubongs you can give, the best part is that you won’t have to worry about these melting in transit as well. If you’re looking for a trusted tablea maker, you can search for Guilang’s Tableya, a Cebuano brand that has made its way to supermarkets nationwide due to its quality. You can purchase tablea from their shop located in Argao, Cebu, or from other convenience stores.

Puso Rice

WRAPPED in coconut leaves and

Lechon de Cebu

AND, of course, who can forget the most sinful Cebu delicacy of them all? Lechon de Cebu.

W hile lechon is a Filipino staple often found in celebrations such as fiestas, birthdays, and weddings, certain cities take it a step further by changing the way they season their lechon. If Metro Manila has its famous La Loma Lechon, the entire province of Cebu is known for its unique way of preparing lechon that will have you asking for vinegar instead of liver sauce.

The first and most important step of making Lechon de Cebu is creating the marinade. Lechon de Cebu’s marinade is a mix of herbs and spices that gives this type of lechon a more fragrant outcome. While you can pick up a box of frozen Lechon de Cebu at the airport, we highly recommend visiting different eateries so you can bring home a serving of your favorite one.

R ico’s Lechon is a favorite amongst tourists, while Zubuchon is another eatery that’s welldeserving of the praises it receives. However, some have said that the best Lechon de Cebu can be found in Carcar’s public markets where it’s served with a mix of roasted pork drippings to give your taste buds a powerful punch of flavor.

Bringing Home a Taste of Cebu NO MATTER the locality you visit in Cebu, you’ll surely find something worth craving.

A s you continue to explore the province of Cebu, why not treat this article as a road map to guide your stomach to some of the best delicacies the Philippines has to offer and purchase some as pasalubong to share with your friends and family?

Dried mangoes in a bowl.

Budbud

Tablea

Lechon de Cebu

Cebu Longganisa

Dine&

DIVE, DINE AND WINE IN CEBU

Text and photos by Bernard L Supetran

CEBU, along with its metropolitan area, continue to live up to its decades-old moniker “Queen City of the South” with endless surprises that never fail to thrill wanderlusts and harvest prestigious awards in the process. With international travel in full swing, foreign tourists are flocking once more to bask in this charming island for sun, sea and everything in between, and beneath.

Its 600-km coastline has blessed the province with fine sand beaches and bodies of water teeming with diverse coraline life, schools of jacks, sardine run, whale and thresher sharks, stingrays and a profusion of marine life.

Cebu boasts of exciting dive spots and classy resorts where divers can dine and wine after a foray into the underwater world. Mactan

Island is the most accessible dive spot with its proximity to the airport and plethora of world-class accommodation and dive centers.

Scuba diving hub

SHERATON Cebu Mactan Resort, the latest addition to the luxury hotels in the historic resort city, is a new hub for scuba diving with its partner Scotty’s Action Sports Network, a trusted name in aquasports down south. Guests can plunge into the must-dive spots of Kontiki Reef, Marine Station, Marigondon Cave and Tingo Point; or the marine sanctuaries of Shangri La, Hilutungan, Talima and Nalusuan; and Tambuli and San Juan wrecks.

During “surface interval” or rest from diving, guests can feast on the hotel’s all-day dining outlet, 5 Cien, which offers a merry mix of international gourmet selections and all-time Filipino and Cebuano delights.

For dinner, divers can swim into the vast menu of Dip Nikkei, which serves the rare mixture of Japanese and Peruvian cuisines, and dishes from both sides of the Pacific. A must-taste is the signature Nikkei ceviche, a combo of seafood, citrus, and spices. Dining is enhanced with a more intimate setting, and a location closer to the poolside and the sea.

For a nightcap or after-dinner cravings, hang around at Buhi Cave Bar for Mediterranean specialties, cocktails and popular spirits.

Nocturnal colony

EXPLORE the megacity’s nocturnal colony at 88th Avenue which has a cluster of restobars which is dominated by the swanky The Weekend Chophouse and Taproom. The most sought-after joint, it is known its 50-day dry-aged Porterhouse, Tbone and wagyu steaks, USDA prime-grade ribeye, mackerel,

pork belly confit, 30-day dry-aged pork chop, chophouse burgers, European specialties, and an impressive collection of wines, spirits and craft beer.

Rum lovers can lose themselves in its array of connoisseur rums from Jamaica, Guyana, Fiji, Panama and Cuba.

Those who prefer a more lowkey and less crowded watering hole can hie off to 8th Street Bar and Coffee Lounge at Diamond Suites Residences located at the fringes of Ayala Center. The street-level bar is ideal for small talk and evokes the city’s eclectic vibe which has endeared it to many.

A nother hideaway is Marina Seaview, a fine dining lounge which specializes in seafood, international cuisine, skewered grilled meats, and local specialties, all prepared the gourmet way. Situated by the banks of the Mactan channel just outside the airport, its opulent fur-

A Taste of Sorsogon

nishings, tasteful interiors, superb customer service, and mesmerizing harbor view can easily outdo hotel restaurants.

Welcome a new day of water action with Sheraton’s extensive breakfast buffet at 5 Cien which will give divers the energy before plunging again into the deep.

Mainstays include local favorites such as danggit, chorizo, puto maya, taho, sikwate chocolate drink, champorado, and an assortment of bread, pastries, cold cuts, cheeses, noodles, and hearty entrees.

If it’s your lucky day and there are foreign guests for a function, you’ll be able to feast on mouthwatering exotic Asian dishes.

Sardine run

ANOTHER diving hotspot is Moalboal which is known for its “sardine run” where tens of thousands of sardines swirl just a few

A showcase of native cuisine and the culinary heritage icon of Bicol is the three-hectare Balay Buhay sa Uma Bee Farm, a combination of a resort and bee farm with an amazing 2,400 colonies of stingless ligwan and pukyutan bees. At its restaurant, we dined on three healthy Bicolano dishes plus one companion dish - adobadong suso (boiled edible freshwater snails in coconut milk), tinolang manok (chicken stew) and deepfried tilapia plus pork belly salad (lechon kawali with salted egg) and fruits in season, all washed down by melon juice. The enseladang pako (pako salad), served with pipino and a vinaigrette made with honey, calamansi, olive oil and spices, was a perfect companion of the adobadong suso. Uma also serves the popular, very delicious and affordable kinigang, a unique Sorsogon delicacy and a perfect treat for seafood lovers, which is served as an appetizer. Almost looking like a tamale, it is made from shredded young coconut (lukadon), yerba Buena, libas, ukot/ ulang (giant freshwater shrimp) and spices wrapped in hagikhik or banana leaf.

Native kakanin

meters below the surface near the shores of Panagsama Beach. The whirlpool-like run can be seen even by snorkelers and freedivers, and there is nothing as exhilarating as being in the middle of the dizzying fish movement. The southern town is also home to some to some 18 dive sites of varying topography.

A relaxing surface interval place to dine and wine, and perhaps spend the night, is Club Serena Resort which has a front view of the long beach and wellappointed villas on stilts which lend a Balinese tropical feel. Divers can sink their teeth on the signature Serena Seafood Curry and bestsellers crispy pata and ceviche which are perfect after a cold bottom time in the sea. With its infinite adventures on land, under water, and on the dining table, Cebu is undeniably the queen of Philippine destinations.

with coconut milk, brown sugar and ground glutinous rice and flavored with margarine, peanut butter or vanilla) and the delicious and easy to make puto (an accompaniment to the savory dinuguan, this type of steamed rice cake popular during holidays and festivals). Pili (Canarium ovatum), the rarest nut in the world and the Bicol Region's main produce, is also the most famous delicacy in Sorsogon, a favorite pasalubong (the most common ones sold are the roasted pili, pili nut brittle, bkayo, molido, pastillas, pili tart, tablea and pili candy) and, cooked in different ways, is popular during meals. The trees, a low-maintenance crop that grows in rich volcanic soil, are found throughout Sorsogon. Pili Haven, an agri-eco tourism site operated by Angkie Agri Enterprises, features everything about pili, from its multiple uses to how they were processed and eaten.

During the launch of the "Beautiful Sorsogon! -Where Beauty is Everywhere." campaign last March 31 at the Residencia del Hamor Beachfront in Santa Magdalena, Bikol cuisine, with the Sorsogon touch, was served.

By Benjamin Locsin Layug

IN 2022, Sorsogon welcomed a total of 852,000 local and foreign same-day tourists. This year, it is aiming to attract one million local and foreign visitors.

least 40 media practitioners and tour operators to a familiarization tour. During those five days, Sorsogon’s varied and unique cuisine, as well as its stunning beauty, took center stage. The tour started with video presentations of what each of the province’s 14 municipalities and one city can offer local and foreign tourists. Guests also feasted on famous Sorsogon delicacies during their familiarization tour of the province. Being surrounded by the ocean really has its perks, especially when it comes to fresh seafood.

Edible sea urchins

AT BANTIGUE Point Marine Sanctuary, edible sea urchins (locally called suwaki or uni) and sea grapes (lato) are cultured and harvested for food. The former is a known aphrodisiac in Japan for thousands of years. Steamed lobsters and crabs, as well as ginataang sahang (spider shells cooked in coconut milk), were served during our island hopping tours off Pilar (Casa Almei Beach Resort) and Matnog (Murong Burongan Island Resort), two of the three gateways (the other is Bulan) of Luzon to the Visayas and Mindanao.

AT ZOE’S Resort & Eco-Adventure Park in Bulusan, we tried tinitim, a native kakanin. A delicacy similar to cassava cake, it is made of steamed grated cassava, coconut milk sugar, vanilla and pili nuts. Another popular Sorsogon delicacy is their suman, a rice cake made with glutinous rice cooked on coconut milk and often wrapped in banana leaves or buried palm leaves for steaming. It is served during fiestas or eaten during breakfast, lunch and dinner or even as a snack.

Other must try desserts include the creamy halo-halo at Splendido de Rompeolas in Sorsogon City, Uwa's tablea in Donsol, the sticky, sweet kalamay (made

Dishes include tilmok (crab meat wrapped in coconut leaf and steamed till cooked), pinakbet (eggplant, okra, string beans and other vegetables stewed with fermented fish), ginataang baluko (pen shell cooked in coconut milk), kinunot (dish with coconut milk and seafood) and, of course, the flavorful and spicy Bicol Express.

The Bicol Express, with seafood and coconut milk as the main ingredients, also included green beans and peppers which were added to the creamy and spicy coconut sauce. The pinausukang laing was different from the one served in the rest of the Bicol Region as it is smoked (it tasted smoky) and is darker compared to the others.

provincial government of Sorsogon has stepped up its tour-

Seafood Kare Kare of Marina Seaview

Dip Nikkei’s Japanese-Peruvian dishes

Freediving at Moalboal’s sardine run

Steamed crabs and shrimps.

PHOTO BY JOAN ARIL CHANG

Laing PHOTO BY JOAN ARIL CHANG

Pako Salad PHOTO BY JOAN ARIL CHANG

Suman at Casa Almei Beach Resort.

PHOTO BY JOAN ARIL CHANG

Wine Dine&

20 YEARS OF YOU AND ME:

TWO DECADES OF COMMITMENT AND COMMUNITY

Savoy Hotel Mactan Ignites the Culinary Stage at Cebu Food and Wine Festival 2023 with Fiesta Filipinas

SAVOY Hotel Mactan is thrilled to announce its participation in the highly anticipated Cebu Food and Wine Festival, with the hotel’s theme "Fiesta Filipinas." The festival will take place on June 12, 2023, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM at the The Poolside and Patio.

A s part of the festival's celebration of Filipino cuisine, Savoy Hotel Mactan will proudly present the extraordinary collaboration of 12 renowned chefs from Megaworld Hotels and Resorts, as they come together to create an unforgettable night of regional delicacies, exquisite cocktails, sensational entertainment, and thrilling raffle prizes.

Guests attending the festival can expect a memorable night filled with an array of mouthwatering regional cuisine highlighting the rich flavors and vibrant culinary heritage of the Philippines. From savory adobo to delectable lechon, guests will embark on a gastronomic journey that celebrates the diverse and exquisite flavors of our region.

In addition to the culinary delights, the Cebu Food and Wine Festival promises an evening of

entertainment and excitement. Attendees can enjoy live performances, cultural showcases, and immersive experiences that embody the spirit of Fiesta Filipinas. The festival will also feature an exciting raffle, offering guests the chance to win amazing prizes.

" We are thrilled to be part of the Cebu Food and Wine Festival and to showcase the remarkable culinary talents of our regional property chefs," said General Manager Josef Victor Chiongbian. Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown is committed to promoting and celebrating the rich food culture of the Philippines. This festival provides the perfect platform to highlight our dedication to culinary excellence and create unforgettable experiences for our guests.

The Cebu Food and Wine Festival is a must-attend event for food

enthusiasts, industry professionals, and anyone seeking a unique and immersive dining experience. It is an opportunity to savor the finest regional cuisine, indulge in the vibrant flavors of the Philippines, and celebrate the culinary heritage of our nation.

Savoy Hotel Mactan invites everyone to join in this extraordinary celebration of food, culture, and

community at the Cebu Food and Wine Festival - Fiesta Filipinas. For more information, you may contact us at +032 494 4000 / +63 917 854 0739 or email fbservice@ savoymactan.com. You may also follow us on our social media pages (Facebook, Instagram, YouTube) at Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown | Facebook / @savoymactannewtown / Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown.

Tang Gives Snackspo for Summer

All of these come with vitamins and minerals in every glass, to provide affordable and accessible nutrition that moms approve of, and kids love.

AS they take pride in providing authentic service and commitment, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf continues to celebrate individuality by recognizing and appreciating the uniqueness of each individual through every cup it serves. The last two decades of CBTL in the Philippines is indeed a milestone because of the impact it has had on the different communities and lives it touched.

With 165 stores and counting, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf continues to create and share spaces that allows guests to express themselves and that makes each experience to every store meaningful. Despite the pandemic significantly affecting their business operations, CBTL has successfully recovered and has continued to open its newest stores in SM Sta. Rosa, Mitsukoshi, Okada, SM Manila, BDO Salcedo Tower, and Wells Fargo BGC.

This year, the brand celebrates its 20th year of bringing its guests together to enjoy premium flavors, served with extraordinary service. Twenty years of gratitude, cherished moments, treasured memories bonded over cups of our favorite brews and blends.

When we started in the Philippines, we were known as the challenger brand. It has been a struggle but we have managed to capture the hearts of the community thanks to the quality of our products," said Kim Cruz, Senior Marketing Manager of CBTL.

What makes CBTL stand out is our community building and we are currently looking into forming partnerships with the local coffee farmers so that they can start supplying Coffee Bean and we can develop another coffee line,” she added.

Unisex bags

IN CELEBRATION of this milestone, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Philippines proudly intro -

duces The Voyager Series. Thoughtfully designed unisex bags with functionality and style in mind - has two variations: Astronaut (dark blue) and Milky Way (cream white).

Both bags come with adjustable brown leather straps and shoulder pad; it includes two front pockets, an inner pocket, and a special compartment for your favorite CBTL tumbler. This is the start of another stamping journey! Beginning on May 25, 2023 until July 25, 2023, complete 18 stamps to redeem the Astronaut or the Milky Way.

Every Voyager bag redeemed will help their partners – U-Go and Ayala Foundation –to support young women from economically disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue higher education and reach their dreams.

Guests will also get to enjoy the Blueberry Cheesecake Ice Blended - an anniversary special to celebrate such a milestone!

It’s made of cold brew tea, brewed for five hours, blended with blueberry sauce and cheesecake powder, drizzled with more blueberry sauce and biscuit crumbs, this sweet treat will give a light and refreshing drink experience and is only available at a limited time in all CBTL stores nationwide.

Guests can also avail of the limited edition 16 oz reusable cups that come in two variations that can be perfect for hot and cold drinks to suit varying preferences for a fulfilling drink experience – anytime, anywhere.

T his year marks CBTL’s 20 years of meaningful stories found in every cup. Celebrate with them now by v isiting any s tore nearest y ou: https://www. coffeebean.com.ph/updates/store-directory/. Visit https://www.coffeebean.com/

THE Philippine summer months are typically from March to May, but this tropical country experiences the warm heat of the sun almost every month. As familiar as the heat is to the country, there’s only one brand that Filipinos trust when it comes to fruity and flavorful refreshment, that’s Tang!

The number one powdered beverage in the country is a standard drink during the hot months because of its delicious fruit taste, with 20 flavors to choose from. It also offers affordable nutrition, with Vitamins C, D and Zinc in every glass of Tang. What’s more,

Tang’s deliciousness can be enjoyed not only at home but can also be used for your business to provide refreshment to your customers!

Tang has over 51 years of experience and insights in providing delicious refreshment to Filipinos. The brand has five decades of knowledge on what tastes Pinoys like – but that doesn’t stop the brand from making more new and delightful flavors for everyone to enjoy. Today, its 20 flavors offer something for everyone, whatever taste preferences they have – from tangy citrus tastes, delightful berry flavors, truly Pinoy flavors, and even fruit and vegetable combos!

Tang’s parent company is Mondelēz International, a global leader in snacks. To strengthen the company’s leadership in snackmaking, it undertakes an annual survey on snacking trends globally called The State of Snacking. Now on its fourth year, the State of Snacking Survey offers new insights on what consumers want for their snacks and more importantly, why they snack. According to the survey, 71 percent of consumers around the world snack at least twice a day.

W hat’s more consumers are eager to find new snacks with over half saying they need more "snackspo" (or snack inspiration) in their life, especially millennials and Gen Z. Some 74 percent of consumers would also make a point of getting a new snack flavor as soon as it comes out. Lastly, familiar snacks appear to be particularly important in the current post-pandemic environment.

Two-thirds (65 percent) agree they prefer brand name snacks to store brand or generic ones.

“ Tang has been a staple for fam-

ily meals for many years because Filipinos see the value our brand offers their lives with our delicious taste and affordable nutrition. Our brand now has more Vitamins C, D and Zinc compared to our previous formulation, that benefit the entire family,” shares Criselle Villafuerte, Category Manager for Beverages of Mondelēz International.

Apart from being enjoyed in homes, Tang also has the versatility to help business owners like carinderia and restaurant owners to provide something new to their patrons. Tang can be a partner of these small and medium business by providing snacks inspiration and providing ingredients which are useful to their businesses,” Villafuerte adds.

For carinderia and restaurant owners, you can order Tang in bulk for your business needs by contacting phconsumercare@ mdlz.com. Tang also offers various recipes from mixed drinks to desserts, which you can serve to your patrons to refresh and delight them this summer and all year round. Just follow the Tang Facebook page for recipes and more. Contact the Mondelēz International Sales team to find out how Tang can be part of refreshing your customers today.

Mang Inasal hailed as ‘best-tasting chicken inasal’ in the PHL

MANG Inasal Chicken Inasal is recognized by Filipinos as the best-tasting grilled chicken in the country, based on a recent imagery survey conducted by a third-party market research agency.

Held from November to December 2022, the nationwide study asked 800 consumers which grilled chicken they consider best-tasting, among other characteristics. Results showed that over 90% of the respondents pointed to Mang Inasal for having the best-tasting grilled chicken among 40 other brands the consumers were aware of.

It’s inspiring to know that the people appreciate what we have been working hard for at Mang Inasal for the past 20 years -- which is to give our customers the best-tasting Chicken Inasal every day,” said Mang Inasal Business Unit head Mike V. Castro. “This will surely keep us going in serving more Ihaw-Sarap meals and

Unli-Saya moments to all our customers.”

To mark this special milestone, a new video advertisement was produced, featuring Mang Inasal’s long-time brand ambassador, Coco Martin. According to Ciara Magallanes of Mommy Diaries PH, Mang Inasal Chicken Inasal has been

their family’s favorite because of its incomparable flavor. Magallanes shared, “It’s perfectly grilled and always best to be enjoyed with Mang Inasal’s unlimited rice.”

Meanwhile, student Chico Velasquez described Mang Inasal Chicken Inasal as a “dish that

is super filling.” He added, “I associate it with happiness because eating it does not only make me full but also reminds me of how fun it is to eat it with my family and, most especially, with my friends.” Mang Inasal has over 570 stores across the country. It is known to customers as the Philippines' Grill Expert that has been delightfully serving Ihaw-Sarap food and Unli-Saya experience for the past 20 years.

Apart from its Chicken Inasal, Mang Inasal has maintained a strong portfolio that includes Extra Creamy Halo-Halo, Palabok, and Pork Barbecue.

Today, Mang Inasal continues its winning tradition of excellence to provide its customers the best Ihaw-Sarap food and Unli-Saya experience wherever and however they want to enjoy it.

Want more Mang Inasal exclusives NOW? Visit www.manginasal.com for the latest updates, https://manginasaldelivery.com.ph for delivery deals, and follow Mang Inasal on social media!

The Voyager Series presents thoughtfully designed unisex bags with functionality and style in mind. It has two variations: Astronaut (dark blue) and Milky Way (cream white).

SUNDAY, MAY 28, 2023 | EDITED BY JOSE F. LACABA

IAN ROSALES CASOCOT receives a plaque and a cash prize of P50,000 for winning 1st prize in the 2023 Nick Joaquin Literary Awards (NJLA) for his story, “Ceferina in Apt. 2G.” With him are NJLA judges JOSE “BUTCH” DALISAY, SUSAN LARA, and MARRA PL. LANOT, who is also the editor of PhilippinesGraphicReader—the first monthly, nationally circulated, magazine for Philippine literature in English in the country.

National Book Development Board (NBDB) Director ANTHONY BALISI accepts for MA. CRISELDA YABES a plaque and cash prize of P30,000 from the judges of NJLA 2023 led by (from Left): JOSE “BUTCH” DALISAY, SUSAN LARA, and MARRA PL. LANOT. Yabes, who was abroad at the time, won second prize for her short story, “Barcelona is My Name.”

RICHARD GIYE, a fictionist from Cordillera, receives a plaque and a check equivalent to a cash prize of P20,000 from NJLA 2023 judges (from Left): JOSE “BUTCH” DALISAY, SUSAN LARA, and MARRA PL. LANOT. Giye won the third prize for his short story, “Blood and Gold in Benguet.”

NJLA 2023 Poet of the Year F. JORDAN CARNICE takes a selfie with Chair of the Board of Judges JOSE “BUTCH” DALISAY. Looking on are cojudges (from Left): SUSAN LARA and MARRA PL. LANOT. Carnice won a plaque and P15,000 for his poem, “Four Poems for the Future.”

PhilippinesGraphicPublication, Inc.

Chair D. EDGARD A. CABANGON and Publisher T. ANTHONY C. CABANGON present the NJLA 2023 plaque for “Patron of Literature” to RAMON S. ANG, President and CEO of San Miguel Corporation

NJLA Support Champions for 2023 Awardees: Fortune Life Insurance; Eternal Gardens Memorial Park, Inc.; Isuzu Gencars, Inc.; Citystate Properties and Management Corporation, Inc.; Planbank; Citystate Savings Bank, Inc.; Asian Security & Investigation Agency; Fortune General Insurance; and Red Falcon Detective Agency, Inc.

(L-R) JEFF WILLIAM ACOSTA for “Two Poems” (poetry published in Feb. 2022); MILA D. AGUILAR for “Maranatha” (a poem published in August 2022); LAKAN UHAY DORADO ALEGRE for “The Search” and “Labasero” (short stories published in June and September 2022); ROSA MAY M. BAYUGA for “The Exile” (a short story published in December 2022); GRETH BARREDO for “A Poet’s Skin Problem” (a short story published in June 2022); ERIKA BELARMINO for “Agua de Mayo” (a poem published in June 2022); WENDELL P. CAPILI for “From Seaward and other Poems,” (poems published in July 2022); LIBAY LINSANGAN CANTOR for “Celebrating Happy Half” (a short story published in December 2022); F. JORDAN CARNICE, “Poet of the Year” for “Four Poems for the Future” (a suite of poems published in July 2022); and IAN ROSALES CASOCOT, First Prize winner for “Ceferina in Apartment 2G” (a short story published in December 2022).

PRINCESS HANNAH CIDRO for “The Lost Memories of Tomorrow” (a short story published in September 2022), NESTOR CUARTERO for “The Shape of Tears” (A poem published in January 2023), ANA ZOE V. DAVAD for “Flowers: For Sale at any time (a short story published in June 2022), TOTEL V. DE JESUS for “Buying Newspapers in the Evening” (a poem published in November 2022), MARK ALDWIN DEL ROSARIO for “Bulul in the Midst of Change” (a short story published in April 2022), LOURD DE VEYRA for “Two Poems” (poems published in December 2022), TANSI AJETTE P. GABRIEL for “Say My Name” (a short story published in August 2022), WAYA GALLARDO for “Flyleaf” (a poem published in November 2022), NERISA DEL CARMEN GUEVARRA for “Fall” (a poem published November 2022), RICHARD GIYE for “Visiting Moth,” “A Time for Tattoos,” and “Blood and Gold in Benguet” (short stories published in August and November 2022, and in January 2023)

ELVIE VICTONETTE RAZON-GONZALES for “My Grandmother Taught Me” (a poem published in March 22), DR. REY ISIDTO for “Red is the River that Runs” (a short story published in October 2022), JOE BERT LAZARTE for “Soft-boiled eggs and Perfectly steamed rice (a short story published in January 2023), I.S.A. CRISOSTOMOLOPEZ for “Patch of Green” (a short story published in November 2022), FILOMENA THERESE ADELE Y. LOYLOY for “A Long Goodbye” (a short story published in Feb. 22), CHITTY CORTEZ-MACATANGAY for “Letting Go,” (a poem published in 2023), PAULINE NAVARRO for “Knocked Out” (a short story published in April 2022), DIANA B. NOCHE for “That Male Thing” (a short story published in February 2022), HOMER NOVICIO for “Lakeview Sunday” (a poem published in September 2022), and BIBETH ORTEZA for “I am Woman” (a poem published in April 2022)

CARLA M. PACIS for “Crocodile Hunting” (a short story published in January 2023), ROMEO PALUSTRE PEÑA for “Grandson of Bayawak” (a short story published in July 2022), JOSHUA RENIEL S. ROMUALDO for “Eyes” (a poem published in Feb. 22), XAVIER RONCESVALLES for “Cut” (a poem published in July 2022), MELISSA SALVA for “The Last Elder Tree of Kalawit” and “When Words Fail” (short stories published in May and November 2022, SIR JOHN KEVIN SAMSON for “The Pawns” (a poem published in April 2022), MENCHU AQUINO SARMIENTO for “Zurbaran” (a short story published in June 2022), SHARON CABUSAO-SILVA for “El Santo Niño” (a short story published in January 2023), ZACK SUNG for “Brave New World” (a poem published in July 2022), PABLO TARIMAN for “Reflection on a Full Moon” and “Ode to Dusk” (poems published in April 2022 and January 2023), SONNY TOLENTINO III for “The Pond” (a poem, published on March 2022) and ANTHONY BALISI, representing MARIA CRISELDA JUDY D. YABES for “Barcelona is My Name” (a short story, March 2022)

(L-R) TRIXZY LEIGH BONOTAN, EM ALQUINTO, ANNE MAE CASABUENA, MARIVIC GUILING-AFRICA, JOCELYN SIDDAYAO, MARIZ PACULANAN, CHUCHAY FERNANDEZ, PhilippinesGraphicEditor-in-Chief PSYCHE ROXAS-MENDOZA, ANNE DELA CRUZ, QUEENIE OSTULANO, LERLYN LAFRADEZ, CAROL VILLANUEVA, KRISHA NUCOM, CARLO ABALOS, DENNIS CRUZ GUEVARRA, and PHILIP NAVARRO

PhilippinesGraphic/Tony&NickMarketing Group (L-R): DENNIS CRUZ GUEVARRA, Advertising Manager, QUEENIE OSTULANO, Account Manager, and CARLO ABALOS, Events Manager

PhilippinesGraphicand BusinessMirror President Benjamin V. Ramos (third from left) share a toast with Nick Joaquin’s niece Charo Joaquin-Villegas and Bing Villegas

FICTIONISTS, POETS, AND ARTISTS FROM THE PERFORMING ARTS GRACE NJLA 2023

SMC President and CEO Ramon S. Ang sends congratulatory message

By Psyche Roxas Mendoza

AFTER being sidelined for more than two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Nick Joaquin Literary Awards (NJLA) made a much-awaited comeback before almost a hundred members of the Philippine literary community.

Held at the Winford Manila Resort and Casino on May 4, during the birthday of the late National Artist and former Philippines Graphic editor-inchief Nick Joaquin, NJLA 2023 welcomed veteran and budding short story writers, poets, and essayists, including theater actors who acted in the plays of Nick Joaquin.

NJLA 2023 selected three of the best short stories and one poem that were published between February 2022 and January 2023 in the Philippines Graphic Reader, a companion magazine of the Philippines Graphic

Hailed as the top winners among 48 short story entries were “Ceferina in Apt. 2G” by Ian Rosales Casocot (1st prize), “Barcelona Is My Name” by Criselda Yabes (2nd prize), and “Blood and Gold in Benguet” by Richard Giye (3rd prize).

Poet F. Jordan Carnice was awarded the Poet of the Year for his “Four Poems for the Future,” selected from 48 poetry entries.

Respected fictionists and poets of the Philippine literary community—led by Jose “Butch” Dalisay (chair), Susan Lara, and Marra PL. Lanot, editor of the Philippines Graphic Reader served as judges in this year’s NJLA.

HOLDING THEIR OWN

Butch Dalisay, a multi-awarded short story writer, novelist, essayist, and educator, said that on the whole, he was “encouraged by the emergence of winning and shortlisted entries that could hold their own in any competition and made the whole enterprise worthwhile.”

Dalisay added: “There is

clearly a need, in my mind, for aspiring writers to return to a more formal study of literary craft, especially in this age of the internet, when self-expression and self-publication can be granted instantaneously. Mastery of language and form take study and practice; a natural talent is always possible and welcome, but even so it will need to be disciplined and refined.”

Of the top three short stories, Susan Lara said, “Ceferina in Apt. 2G” by Ian Casocot showed “mastery of form and content” as a “poignant story of a mother navigating the delicate path to tacit acceptance of her son’s sexual orientation.”

“Ceferina in Apt. 2G” attracts and succeeds on many levels—as a story of maternal love, a story of adaptation to another country and its culture, and a story of coming into one’s own. It is told with great sensitivity and sympathy for the characters, without false sentimentality or treacly lyricism. It handles deep and powerful emotion with masterful control, Dalisay said.

Lara regarded “Barcelona Is My Name” by Criselda Yabes as “a story of revenge through the eyes of the awakening consciousness of the daughter of a jeepney driver, a victim of tokhang and the culture of violence under a bloodthirsty president.”

“Barcelona Is My Name,” Dalisay stressed, “not only captures the devaluation of human life in the time of tokhang, but also this violent interlude’s brutalization of the human mind and spirit, for both villain and the victim.”

Lara said that “Blood and Gold in Benguet” by Cordilleran writer Richard Giye is “an excruciatingly painful and cathartic story of sin and atonement.”

Dalisay found “Four Poems for the Future” as “a refreshing breadth of hopefulness, amidst the all-too-familiar dirges and lamentations of contemporary poetry.”

Philippines Graphic Reader

editor Marra PL. Lanot said that “Four Poems for the Future” shows “a strong connection between individual and environment, between locality and universality, in a language the reader can easily relate to.”

Lanot said that “Ceferina in Apt. 2G” is “tops for its polished language as well as its refreshing and quiet approach to an LGBT issue.”

She cited “Barcelona Is My Name” as a story that stands out for its “timeliness and personal and social tension,” while “Blood and Gold in Benguet” comes strong for its “cinematic effect, shocking details, and insightful picture of mining on indigenous terrain.”

GRAPHIC SALUTE

In his welcome address, Philippines Graphic , Graphic Reader, and BusinessMirror publisher T. Anthony C. Cabangon underscored the importance of publishing in connecting a writer to the public.

“For us, publication is the first hurdle of the writer who wants the public to read his work. Publication is the first level of the competition for public awareness. To breeze past the line-up of a hundred or more writers who submitted their works; to have your work chosen for publication—that is no mean feat. That deserves a Graphic Salute,” Cabangon said.

He announced that aside from giving awards, NJLA 2023 is giving a Graphic Salute plaque of recognition to literary writers whose works were published in the Philippines Graphic Reader from February 2022 to January 2023.

PATRON OF LITERATURE

Philippines Graphic and BusinessMirror chairman D. Edgard A. Cabangon presented the Patron of Literature Award to business mogul and philanthropist Ramon S. Ang.

The plaque and the gold

medal award of distinction recognized the generous corporate support of the San Miguel Corporation president and CEO to the NJLA and the Philippines Graphic Reader

“In the season of the COVID-19 pandemic, San Miguel Corporation came to the rescue of the Philippines Graphic in 2022 and helped it give birth to the Philippines Graphic Reader. In recognition of San Miguel Corporation’s generous support—giving life to that chance for short story writers and poets to have their works published in the Graphic Reader—we award the Patron of Literature to Mr. Ramon S. Ang, president and CEO of San Miguel Corporation,” D. Edgard A. Cabangon said.

For his part, Ang said in a message to the NJLA that helping preserve the memory and the legacy of National Artist Nick Joaquin, who continues to inspire Filipino writers, serve as reasons for San Miguel Corporation’s “unwavering support of the Nick Joaquin Literary Awards and the Philippines Graphic all these years.”

Ang expounded: “Through both fiction and nonfiction, writers help people make sense of the world around them and even their own experiences. Novels, short stories, poems, songs, even journalistic pieces, are oftentimes meant to help troubleshoot if not repair relationships, correct wrongs in our society, or inspire people to action. In all these, I believe that one of the most important roles of most writers is to make present conditions better— whether through entertaining readers, enriching their understanding of topics and issues, or improving the way they look at things around them.”

The SMC president and CEO stressed that the stories of Nick Joaquin, a devoted San Miguel Beer lover, “made us look closer at ourselves, our society, our country—with optimism.”

“I am proud that we at San

Miguel get to play a part in continuing his [Nick Joaquin’s] amazing story,” he concluded.

SUITE OF LITERATURE

Benjamin V. Ramos, president of Philippines Graphic and BusinessMirror , presented the Winford Manila Resort and Casino with the Suite of Literature Award for the hotel’s generous support as venue of NJLA 2023.

The award was received by Jami Ledesma, Winford Manila Resort and Casino corporate communications director.

The NJLA likewise gave the NJLA Support Champions for 2023 Award to nine firms under the ALC Corporation—the mother corporation of Philippines Graphic , Philippines Graphic Reader , and BusinessMirror

These companies include: Fortune Life Insurance; Fortune Guaranty Insurance; Isuzu Gencars, Inc.; Asian Security & Investigation Agency; Eternal Gardens Memorial Park, Inc.; Red Falcon Detective Agency, Inc.; Citystate Savings Bank, Citystate Properties and Management Corporation; and Planbank.

Established in February 2022 through the generous support of San Miguel Corporation, the Philippines Graphic Reader is the first monthly literary magazine solely devoted to Philippine literature in English in the country.

All published literary works in the Philippines Graphic Reade r automatically qualify as entries in the NJLA. A panel of judges made up of respected members of the Philippine literary community selects the winners and gives medals and cash awards to writers with the best short stories—first place (P50,000), second place (P30,000), third place (P20,000)—including the poet of the year (P15,000).

The Philippines Graphic will, shortly thereafter, compile all the published literary works into a book, the Philippines Graphic Reader, Book 1.

The launching of Sa Batis ng Tula A memorial book featuring the poems of Rogelio Mangahas Compiled by his wife Fe Mangahas

By Psyche Roxas-Mendoza

siya sa atin, dahil sa kanyang Misis. Kung wala yung Misis niya, walang magtitipon ng kanyang tula. Maraming salamat. Hindi namin magagawa ang iyong ginawa.” [In this instance, Roger lives, not only through his poetry. He lives because of his wife. If not for his wife, there would not be this poetry collection. Thank you. We cannot do what you did.]

For 48 years, historian, multiawarded poet, essayist, and literary critic Rogelio “Roger” G. Mangahas and historian, teacher, and writer Fe Buenaventura Mangahas lived together as husband and wife.

In the morning of July 4, 2018, Roger died after suffering a massive stroke at age 79.

“I miss him most during special occasions: birthdays, anniversaries, family reunions, get-togethers with friends,” Fe Mangahas reminisced. “A gentleman who was honest, humble, loving, and humorous, he was not only my husband. He was my sweetheart, friend, companion, and critic.”

Writer and close family friend Alma Cruz Miclat described Roger as “one of the triumvirate of modernist poets since the 1960s,” together with Lamberto E. Antonio and National Artist Virgilio S. Almario.

“[Rogelio] Mangahas coauthored and edited in 1967 an anthology of poems, Manlilikha: Mga Piling Tula , which laid the foundation for the modernist movement as an alternative to the traditionalist Tagalog poetry. The triumvirate influenced the succeeding generation of poets,” Miclat wrote in the Philippine Daily Inquirer, days after Roger died.

GIFT TO FAMILY, FRIENDS

Roger Mangahas wrote 150 poems and 218 haikus, beginning

in 1962 until 2018.

And like precious thoughts plucked from a mountain of memory, Fe gathered these poems and haikus, and compiled them in a memorial book, Sa Batis ng Tula

(In the Stream of Poetry).

“The book is not for sale. It is a gift, a thank you to family and dear friends,” said Fe as she messaged friends about the launching of the book on May 20 at the Marina Seafood Restaurant along Mother Ignacia Avenue corner Scout Reyes Street in Quezon City.

National Artist for Literature Virgilio S. Almario, one of the many guests who attended the launch, thanked Fe for the book. In a message recorded on video and posted on Facebook, Almario said:

“Sa pagkakataong ito, hindi lamang nabuhay sa atin si Roger dahil sa kanyang tula. Nabuhay din

As told by Fe, the guests at the launch included writer-friends Elynia Ruth Mabanglo, Roberto Añonuevo, Rebecca Añonuevo, Michael M. Coroza, Fidel Rillo, Jenny Juan (sister of Anton Juan), Alma Miclat, Barbara Mae Dacanay, Marra PL. Lanot, Virginia Jasmin Pasalo, Daphne Roxas, Joti Tabula, and Rowena Festin; artist-friends Julie Lluch, Imelda Cajipe Endaya, and Aba Lluch Dalena; and friends from academe: Professors Temario Rivera and Mahar Mangahas.

Fe said the book celebrates Roger: “Para may maiwan siyang alaala, makilala ang kanyang payak ngunit matamis na pagkatao.” [For him to be remembered; for people to know his simple but sweet humanity.]

FAVORITE POEMS

Among this treasure trove of poetry, Fe regards “Villanelle sa Iyong Pagdalaw” (1977) and “ Mga Duguang Plakard ” (1971) as her favorites.

“The first poem talks about love in the time of Martial Law. Sinulat niya matapos akong makadalaw sa [He wrote it after I visited him in] Camp Bonifacio, where he had been confined as a political prisoner for two years,” said Fe.

Villanelle sa Iyong Pagdalaw

Nang araw na iyong dalawin mo ako, ang ulap ay hasmin, Ikaw nga, o Mutya, kasamang kayrikit!

Nais kitang hagkan ngunit pagitan ta ay bakal na iskrin.

Ang lalim at alab ng ating kumusta’y nasa anyo’t tingin, Sangmundong gunita’y binuhay ng saglit.

Nang araw na iyong dalawin mo ako, ang ulap ay hasmin.

Nalagas man, Mutya, sa mahabang unos ang una tang supling—

Sa labas, may laksang sisibol, titindig

Nais kitang hagkan ngunit pagitan ta ay bakal na iskrin.

Tanod ay nanlisik! Dulong daliri mo’y ni di ko masaling— Sulat daw ay lason, apoy ng himagsik.

Nang araw na iyong dalawin mo ako, ang ulap ay hasmin.

Batid kong ikaw man ay nakabilanggo wala man sa karsel,

Selda ko’y higit lang ang rehas at sikip;

Nais kitang hagkan ngunit pagitan ta ay bakal na iskrin.

Gayon man, o Mutya, ang diwang malaya ay sulo sa dilim, Pananalig nati’y di nila mapiit.

Nang araw na iyong dalawin mo ako, ang ulap ay hasmin, Nais kitang hagkan ngunit pagitan ta ay bakal na iskrin.

The collection, Mga Duguang Plakard at Iba Pang Tula, won first prize for poetry in Filipino at the 1971 Palanca Awards.

“Mga Duguang Plakard” is a poem dedicated to the fallen demonstrators during the bloody dispersal on Mendiola Bridge on January 30, 1970.

Bawat plakard ng dugo’y isang kasaysayan.

Isang kasaysayan sa loob ng mga kasaysayan. Mga kasaysayan sa loob ng isang kasaysayan.

Kangina pa namimigat, kangina pa kumikinig ang ating mga palad, wari’y mga munting bungong may kutsilyong nakatarak.

Sa look ng kurdon, tayo’y tila mga tupang halos katnig-katnig,

magkahiramang-hininga, magkapalitang-pawis.

Bawat ngiti’y duguang balahibo ng isang martines na walang mahapunan.

May dilang namimigat sa pangil ng tigre, may dilang kumikisig sa abo ng dahon, may dilang tusuk-tusok ng tinik ng suha, ay, kampilang bungi-bungi sa lalamunan ng isang lalaking sumusuntok sa ulap sa tanghaway ng unat na bato! —Excerpts from “Duguang Plakard”

IN MEMORIAM

Photos of the book launch found their way on Facebook and other platforms on social media. Veteran writers mingled with young poets and fictionists, paying homage to the life and works of Rogelio G. Mangahas.

There was Tagalog poet Elynia Ruth Mabanglo, reading excerpts from “Mga Duguang Plakard” to resounding applause.

Friends of Fe and Roger posted requests for a copy of Sa Batis ng Tula. Fe replied in the affirmative. Her writer-friend Alma Miclat gave permission for the photos she took of the launch to be printed in Tony&Nick.

In time, these posts and photos will be succeeded by later posts, of other events and happenings reported on Facebook.

But the memories, like the book Sa Batis ng Tula, will remain enfevered in the hearts and minds of Roger’s and Fe’s friends and loved ones.

Memory is all that matters in the end.

(LEFT Row, L-R) Abel Cruz, National Artist Virgilio Almario, Alma Cruz Miclat (Right Row, L-R) Lyn Almario, Fe Mangahas, and Social Weather Stations’ Dr. Mahar Mangahas

THEIR world together began in the halls of academe in the early 1970s, moving on to the streets of Mendiola, engulfed in the flames of student activism and martial law, surviving the paradox of causes found and lost, and found again—all the time breathing poetry into life and living.