BusinessMirror May 31, 2022

Pangandaman is DBM chief; 4 others named

‘Close borders, cut Omicron exposure risk’

By Bernadette D. Nicolas @BNicolasBM

& Samuel P. Medenilla

By Cai U. Ordinario

CB

@sam_medenilla @caiordinario

ANGKO Sentral ng Pilipinas LOSING the country’s borders (BSP) assistant governor is one of the most immediate Amenah F. the Pangandaman courses of action governhas accepted the offer to latbe the ment must take to prevent the budget secretary under the incomest Covid-19 variant, Omicron, from ing Marcos administration, vowing reaching Philippine shores, accordto prioritize the modernization of ing tothe local economists. budget system.

T he new var iant is threat,PanIn a statement on aMonday, e s p e gandaman c i a l l y w itsaid h t he hol id ay s acshe officially coming up and more foreigners cepted the invitation of presidentbeingelect a llowed to travel Ferdinand MarcostoJr.the for her Philippines, La Sa lle Univerto be the De budget chief, completing sit y economist Mar ia Ella Oplasecothe incoming administration’s told BusinessMirror. nomic team.

The holidays usually the bring in Also on Monday, following Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) Cabinet nominations were anwho are eager to spend Christmas

with their loved ones, while foreigners living in temperate regions usually want to relax in tropical countries like the Philippines. This year’s influx of OFWs is expected to be heavier since many of them were unable to come home for the holidays in December 2020.

“My recommendation is to protect the borders. Do not allow people with a history of travel to countries with positive cases to enter,” Oplas said.

PANGANDAMAN “We should be more restrictive. [We havenounced: to be] more protectiveErwin in terms broadcaster Tulfo of our as measures.” secretary of the Department of Oplas that while will be Socialsaid Welfare and this Development (DSWD); Ivan John Uy, Departa setback to some industries, this of Information and Commuis a ment fair measure considering that Technology thisnications could helpand prevent placing(DICT); the country in another strict lockdown,

Christina Frasco, Department of Toursim; and Maria Zenaida Angping,she Presidential Management which, said, the economy can no Staff. longer afford.

It is my “It “As-Salāmu is better that`Alaykum. we do protective honor to measures serve the Filipino preventive than getpeople exduring thisWe critical in our posed again. have juncture a lot to lose,” history,” saidshould Pangandaman.

“As Oplas said. “We do it now so Budget and Management Secretary, that we can open just before ChristI will mycontained, utmost towe livecan upopen to the mas.

If itdo gets trust placed in me by the Presidentit again.” elect and craft responsive budget Ateneo Center for Economic Reand management policies that will search andour Development (ACERD) support rebuilding efforts from Associate Director Ser Percival the pandemic.”

K. Peña-Reyes closing the Apart fromsaid modernizing the country’s borders would be effecbudget system, Pangandaman tive butthe should still adhere to the said incorporation of sustainstandards set by the in World Health ability principles government Organization spending is(WHO). also among her key What is needed, Peña-Reyes told priorities. this newspaper, is forwas travel restric“The pandemic a challenge tions to be put in place swiftly and

like no other in the way it stretched our resources and set us back on ourgovernment goals as a nation. team and for to be My proactive in I vow to them. work with the rest of the imposing economic and continue the Previousteam instances when the policieshad andthe reforms that wetohave country opportunity imlongtravel fought for. We will to pose restrictions didstrive not preensure prudent and transparent use vent the spread of Covid-19. That was of public fundsthe in adecision way thatwas allows mainly because not us to regain lost ground while also made immediately, he said. uplifting the lives of the ordinary “Kung papatay patay [If we’re Filipino.” slow] and we get caught flat-footPangand aman cur rent ly ed, [that’s We were too reserves as risky] the BSP’s Concurrent active instead of proactive before.

Assistant Governor for StrateWe learn from that,” Peñagicshould Communication and AdvoReyes said.

“It’s a delicate balancing cacy and Executive Offices Coact.

We needleading to pushthe testing ordinator effotsand to tracing to be properly informed operationalize BSP’s promise to ofbring our decisions.

Blanket/shotgun the central bank closer to approaches could have dire consethe Filipino people. quencesSee on“Pangandaman,” the economy.”A2 See “Omicron,” A2

VIET-THAI RICE NATL GOVTTANDEM BORROWINGS PRICE PHL FOR 10HIKE MOSTO DIPHURT TO P2.75T w w

n

n Tuesday, May 31, 235 Monday, November 29,2022 2021Vol.Vol.1717No.No.52

By Bernadette D. Nicolas

T

@BNicolasBM

HE national government’s gross borrowings as of end-October shrank by almost 6 percent year-on-year to P2.75 trillion.

Latest data from the Bureau of the Treasury showed that the government’s gross borrowings during the 10-month period fell by 5.99 percent from P2.92 trillion a year ago.

With only two months left for this year, the latest figure is already equivalent to 89.6 percent of its P3.07-trillion borrowing program.

Broken down, gross domestic borrowings from January to October settled at P2.23 trillion, down by 5.08 percent from P2.35 trillion in 2020.

The bulk of the amount was PEOPLE walk past the mural of Gat Andres Bonifacio at Manila City Hall Underpass. sourced from Fixed Rate Treasury The country will celebrate the 158th birth anniversary of Filipino revolutionary Bonds (P1.19 trillion), followed by hero Gat Andres Bonifacio on Tuesday, November 30. ROY DOMINGO short-term borrowings from Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas or BSP (P540 billion), Retail Treasury Bonds/Premyo Bonds (P463.3 billion), Retail Y. Arcalas @jearcalas

By Jasper Emmanuel Onshore Dollar Bonds (P80.84 billion). In the same period, there was

By Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas dating its registry following the also a net redemption of Treasury @jearcalas enactment of the Coconut FarmBills amounting to P43.94 billion. ers and Industry Trust Fund law.

Net debt redemption means ORE than 3 million Rosales explained that about there were more debts repaid comBy Bernadette D. Nicolas coconut farmers and 500,000 coconut farmers and pared to the amount borrowed dur@BNicolasBM workers are now regisworkers were added to the PCA’s ing the period. tered with the government’s reg2018 listHE that had aboutMarcos 2.5 million Meanwhile, gross foreign borincoming adistry, which serves as the basis coconutministration farmers and farm workers. rowings in the same period also is set to infor the number of people to be The herit PCA’smany next hard-won step is to concontracted by 9.7 percent to P518.7 ecocovered by the utilization of the duct an exclusion-inclusion probillion from last year’s P574.4 billion. nomic reforms put in place under P75-billion coconut levy fund. cedure

by Duterte’s making term, the updated This was raised through global President Finance Philippine Coconut Authority farmers’ registry public, providbonds (P146.17 billion), program Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez III (PCA) Deputy Administrator Roel ing everyone the opportunity to loans (P139.98 billion), euro-deon Monday asserted.

M. Rosales said about 3.11 million check the veracity of the list, Ronominated bonds (P121.97 billion), The key economic accomsales added. under Duterte’s term a project loanM. (P86.41 billion), and Roehlano Briones, a senior “coconut N o t h i nfarmers g h a p pand e n efarm d wworkit h plishments ers have been registered with the “The listhe will be posted in public yen-denominated samurai bonds research fellow at the Philippine OREC and I think nothing will marked, said, the country’s government since it started upspaces where people can easily see (P24.19 billion).

Institute of Development Studies, happen with this as well, espeturn “towards more inclusive

ON Monday, Presidentelect Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. named Bangko Sentral assistant governor Amenah Pangandaman as his nominee to be the next budget chief, completing his roster of economic managers. He also named four other secretariesdesignate. Read umbrella story at top of page.

ARTWORK BY JOB RUZGAL

P25.00 P25.00 nationwide nationwide || 22 sections sections 24 20 pages pages ||

‘Benefits to farmOmicron sector far risk more than risksspurs fromrevival RCEP’ of quarantine T rules in PHL HE benefits to the farm sector that the country will gain from ratifying the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement will far outweigh the liberalization of 33 agricultural tariff lines, government officials said Monday.

At the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations hearing, officials from the Department of Trade and Industr y (DTI) and the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) insisted that the agriculture sector will not be a loser under the RCEP, adding that the concerns by certain quarters regarding the trade agreement have been addressed.

In fact, Bien A. Ganapin, director of Trade, Services and Industry Staff at Neda, and Trade Assistant Secretary Allan B. Gepty argued, the local agriculture sector, especially exporters, would benefit more from RCEP since trade-partners have agreed to eased their tariff rates on Philippine products.

OVER 3-M FARMERS LISTED FOR P75-B COCO LEVY FUND DUTERTE LEGACY: HARD-WON ILIPINO consumers must

F

brace for higher rice prices should the plan of Vietnam and Thailand to jointly raise export prices of the staple pushes through, experts and industry players said.

See “Borrowings,” A2

said Thailand and Vietnam’s latest plan is reminiscent of the proposed Organization of Rice Exporting Countries countries before, which had the goal of controlling the global rice market.

Like the OREC, Briones said he does not see Thailand and Vietnam’s plan materializing this year, especially since other rice-producing and exporting countries like India and Myanmar are not part of the talks.

PESO EXCHANGE RATES

M

Export market gains

them. This allows everyone to see who are listed in the registry and if farmer doesn’t see his name then he shall coordinatealso withpassed the PCAthe imministration mediately,” he explained at a recent “most comprehensive” tax redialogue with coconut form program in thefarmers. country, “On the other hand, if people which provided revenues that would see names the listand and expanded social on services they think they are not coconut supported economic investfarmers their details are incorments inor modern infrastructure. rect, they can report it to PCA “They will assume thethe office for immediate action,” he added. with the basic groundwork for The official noted that rapid andPCA inclusive growth already the completion of the initial list in place. President Duterte’s final of coconut farmers registry would legacy is a confident and hopeful be just in timeearnestly for the expected Filipino people looking rollout of coconut to a future of sustainedlevy-funded progress,”

REFORMS TO BOOST ECONOMY

T

“WE will miss a lot more in terms of the export market since the RCEP programs PresidentThe Duterte region is as significant.

Philipispines’ expected to sign the industry exports to RCEP countries development plan in early 2022. account for 50 percent of our total Rosales said the PCA will not stop updating its list of coconut farmers and enjoined them to register in order to reap the benefits of the decades-long idled coconut levy fund. “We will not stop at 3.1 million. We hope that more individuals will register in our coconut farmers registry,” he said.

The updating of the coconut farmers registry is mandated by Republic Act (RA) 11524 or the Coconut Industry Trust Fund Act. See “3-M farmers,” A2

cially since they are only two growth and prosperity” and said Dominguez, who presented countries. There is no India, makes the outgoing administrathe achievements of the Economic Myanmar and Cambodia,” he told tion “among the most productive Sector during the n US 50.4600 n JAPAN 0.4374 n UK 67.2329 n HK 6.4722 n CHINA 7.9013 n Development SINGAPORE 36.8968 n AUSTRALIA 36.2807 n the BusinessMirror. in our history.”

Duterte Legacy Summit at the However, Briones said if Thailand Dominguez said many socioPhilippine International Convenand Vietnam decide to increase their economic reform measures that tion Center (PICC). rice prices, then it may be “moderlanguished for years in the legislaHe pointed out that the adately harmful” to Filipino consumtive mill were finally enacted into ministration was able to sustainers. Nonetheless, he added that the law under the Duterte administraably fund its Build, Build, Build country’s rice supply remains secure tion, such as the Rice Tariffication program, which he called one of since bulk of our staple stocks come law and the Coco Levy law.

Duterte’s lasting legacies. from local farmers.

Moreover, the Duterte adSee “Duterte ,” A2

By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla

I

NTER NATIONA L concerns over the possible spread of the more Omicron “We will miss infectious a lot more in terms of the Covid-19 variant prompted the export market since the RCEP region is government to reimpose mandatory significant. The Philippines’ exports to RCEP facility-based for all countries account forquarantine 50 percent of our total arriving passengers in the country. trade,” Bien A. Ganapin, director of Trade, Acting Presidential spokesperServices and Industry Staff at Neda son Karlo B. Nograles announced on Sunday that the trade,” Ganapin toldInter-Agency lawmakers Task Force for the Management on Monday. of Ganapin Emergingpresented Infectious Diseases to lawmak(IATF) suspended the implemeners the country’s agricultural tariff tationthat of its No. 150lines willResolution be liberalized and A (s.2021), effectively imposing agricultural export products that stricter protocols for all inbound will enjoy lower tariff rates under travelers. the RCEP. Toa note, Resolution G n a p i IATF n ’s p r e s e n t a t150ion A had allowed fully showed that only 15 vaccinated commodinon-visa from Green List ties withtravelers 33 agricultural tariff areas to enter the country withlines w il l be further libera lout the need for (lower facility-based ized under RCEP tariffs quarantine as long theyfavored secure compared to their as most negative Reverse Transcriptionnation [MFN] rates and some Polymerase Chain Reactionnoted (RTAsean+1 rates).

Ganapin PCR) test within 72 hours prior that these tariff lines account to their departure. for only 0.8 percent of annual im“Except forwith countries classified port volume an estimated as ‘Red,’ the testing and quarantine value of $132 million. protocolsSee for“Benefits,” all inbound internaA2 tional travelers in all ports of entry shall comply with the testing and quarantine protocols for ‘Yellow’ list countries,” Nograles said, citing the provision of IATF Resolution No. 151-A. He noted Hong Kong, which has confirmed a case of the Omicron variant, will also fall under the Yellow list countries.

The suspension of the rules for “Green List” countries will be in effect from November 28, 2021 to December 15, 2021.

Continued on A2

EU 56.5758 n SAUDI ARABIA 13.4531 Source: BSP (November 26, 2021)

See “Viet-Thai,” A2

PESO EXCHANGE RATES n US 52.3020

n JAPAN 0.4115 n UK 66.0627 n HK 6.6633 n CHINA 7.8086 n SINGAPORE 38.2129 n AUSTRALIA 37.4273 n EU 56.1410 n SAUDI ARABIA 13.9439

Source: BSP (May 23, 2022)

News

BusinessMirror

A2 Tuesday, May 31, 2022

Senate OKs bill exempting poll workers’ pay from tax T

By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM & Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco @claudethmc3

HE Senate on Monday approved on third and final reading the bill providing tax exemption on poll workers’ honoraria, as well as other additional monetary benefits. granted by Comelec to persons rendering election service.

Gatchalian said the measure will apply to the May 9, 2022 local and national elections and thereafter.

As chairman of the Senate Committee on Basic Education, Arts and Culture, Gatchalian has been pressing for “giving poll workers the full amount of their honoraria and other benefits,” saying this would “show the administration’s appreciation for their hard work and sacrifices to ensure peaceful and orderly elections.”

He estimated that around 647,812 personnel from the DepEd rendered service for this year’s national and local polls, of whom 319,317 served as members of Electoral Boards (EB).

“If we don’t impose taxes on the pay and benefits of our teachers,

The approval spurred the Commission on Elections to thank the Department of Education (DepEd) for solidly backing the initiative, and drew praise from Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian, its principal backer.

In hailing passage of Senate Bill 2520, Gatchalian said the measure, once enacted into law, will exempt from income tax the honoraria and other benefits of all workers who served in the May 9,2022 local and national elections. Most of them are public school teachers, who for decades have formed the backbone of election service providers, by comprising the board of election inspectors in the poll precincts.

As coauthor of SB 2520, Gatchalian said it has a provision excluding from gross income the honoraria, travel allowance, and other benefits

Viet-Thai...

Continued from A1

“[Supply] will just be more expensive,” he said.

Federation of Free Farmers National Manager Raul Q. Montemayor said the Philippines will not be in a position to

negotiate rice prices with its foreign suppliers since it is the one in dire need of additional stocks.

“They will take advantage of the situation. And what can we do? Interna-

we can best manifest our gratitude and recognition of their sacrifice to ensure clean and orderly elections,” said Gatchalian, partly in Filipino.

He recalled that the election honoraria and allowances were never subjected to tax until the 2018 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections and the 2019 midterm elections when the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) imposed a 5 percent withholding tax on their honoraria. This year, election honoraria and allowances were subjected to 20-percent withholding tax, sparking protests from teachers, who were backed by the DepEd and Comelec.

The Department of Finance (DOF) earlier maintained that the proposed tax exemption could be difficult to implement and runs counter to the principles of the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law to make the tax system more efficient and equitable.

Gatchalian, however, noted that the tax code already provides for tax exemptions. He earlier urged the DOF and the BIR to submit their proposals on how to give poll workers the full amount of their honoraria and other

benefits since elections are only held every three years.

The DepEd thanked Comelec, meanwhile, for the granting of P2,000 additional honoraria for select teachers for their extended service during the May 9 polls.

“Although it is lesser [than] our original proposal of P3,000, the Department is grateful to the Commission for listening to our plea for our teachers’ welfare,” the DepEd said.

DepEd, through Secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones and Election Task Force Chair and Undersecretary for Administration Alain Del B. Pascua, immediately coordinated with Comelec on its proposal of providing appropriate and just compensation for teachers who rendered extended hours in the elections due to vote counting machine (VCM) and SD card issues.

In a Comelec order, poll workers will receive an additional P2,000 honoraria across the board.

Moving forward, DepEd is keen to work with Comelec and Congress to institute more beneficial poll-related provisions for teachers who have always been committed to protect the sanctity of the Filipino vote.

tional prices of rice will increase while our production is expected to decline this year,” Montemayor said in a virtual briefing organized by food security advocacy group Tugon Kabuhayan on Monday.

“We are at the mercy of the exporters,” Montemayor added.

Vietnam and Thailand are the top

rice suppliers of the country as they account for about 95 percent of annual import volume. Last year, Vietnam exported 2.36 million metric tons (MMT) of rice to the Philippines while Thailand shipped over 131,000 MT of rice.

Montemayor said the country cannot afford to be dependent on imports amid the various global economic challenges affecting supply chains and food supplies.

“We don’t want to discourage our farmers from producing, because if the global market is unstable, we won’t have many options left to us,” he said.

Based on estimates made by the FFF, Montemayor said Filipino consumers would have to shell out an additional P190 million per day if rice prices rise

by P5 per kilogram due to compounding global factors.

“If the price increase of P5/kilo persists for 100 days, total loss of consumers will be P19 billion,” he added.

Montemayor said it would cost the government about P27 billion to P38 billion to subsidize local farmers’ higher expenditure on fertilizer and fuel due to rising global prices.

Tugon Kabuhayan urged the local government units (LGUs) to increase their support to local agriculture to cushion the impact of the looming food crisis on Filipino rice farmers.

“With the supply shortfall and rising cost of feed products that we are experiencing amid the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine and the rising cost of agricultural inputs, we believe it is high time for the local government to boost their support to local agriculture,” the group said.

Reacting to the plan of Thailand and Vietnam, the Samahang Industriya ng Agrikultura (SINAG) urged the government to prioritize local production by subsidizing farm inputs and helping farmers across the whole production chain.

“All countries will naturally protect their own domestic needs first.

We can never rely on the vagaries of the world market,” the group said.

“Political upheavals, pandemics and natural calamities are more often than ever before. Disruption of supply chain and global price volatility is the new norm,” it added.

Foreign news agencies reported that Thailand has been negotiating with Vietnam to raise their prices to “boost their bargaining power in the global market” and provide their farmers with higher income. (Related story: ttps://businessmirror.com. ph/2022/05/28/rice-giant-thailand-wants-to-coordinate-pricehikes-with-vietnam/) Chookiat Ophaswongse, honorary president of the Thai Exporters Association, was quoted as saying in a Bloomberg report that Vietnam and Thailand’s plan is “nearly impossible to implement,” noting that they are not the on ly r ice sellers in the global market.

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Benefits...

Continued from A1

The 15 commodities that will have their tariff rates slashed in the course of 15 to 20 years would be live swine, live chicken, live chicken weighing not more than 2 kilograms, celery, preserved vegetables, corn starch, meat sausages, frozen fish, palm nuts and kernels, olive oil, feeds for primates, spinach, and black pepper.

These 15 commodities are the only ones that may affect an existing domestic industry, based on Ganapin’s presentation.

Ganapin’s presentation also showed that an additional 105 tariff lines concerning 34 agricultural commodity groups under Category C1 will be liberalized under RCEP. The 34 agricultural commodity groups account for about 12.3 percent of total agricultural imports with an estimated import value of $2.1 billion.

Ganapin explained that the tariff rates of these 34 agricultural commodity groups will be lower compared to their current MFN rates, but still higher or on a par with their Asean+1 rates.

These imported products under Category C1 would not impact or affect any local domestic industry.

The products under Category C1 include nondairy creamer, pasta, yogurt, dairy spreads, meat of goats, live sheep, live poultry, preserved meat, salted fish, leeks, salad beetroot, cucumbers, pumpkins, chocolates, among others.

Gepty’s presentation argued that the RCEP would keep Philippine agricultural exports competitive against the member-countries of the trade pact. Gepty pointed out that various agricultural exports will have zero tariff rate in key markets like China, Japan and South Korea over the 20-year implementation of RCEP. The Philippines’s exports involving 511 tariff lines will have improved tariff rates from RCEP trade-partners.

Some of the country’s exports that would have zero percent tariff are papaya, durian, canned tuna, and alcoholic beverages to South Korea as well as coffee, chocolates, pineapples and pineapple products to Japan and China, among others.

“If ever we have opened our market to the

33 agricultural tariff lines, our sensitive products have been constantly excluded from [further liberalization]. Those are sacred products whether we are competitive in them or not, because these products have social repercussions,” Gepty said.

The commodities that are part of the exclusion list are edible meat products, rice, coffee, onion and garlic, potatoes, carrots, cassava, corn, lettuce, cabbage and cauliflower, sugar, instant coffee, among others, with a total tariff lines of 154.

Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Karl Kendrick T. Chua said the government will continue to give priority to making the agriculture sector competitive and productive “in parallel to pursuing the RCEP agreement.”

“We will help the agriculture sector be competitive and productive because that is the foundation of our structural transformation to become a prosperous country. But not at the expense of all the other sectors that also need our support. So, what we propose is to do things in parallel: ratify the RCEP but also help the agriculture sector become more competitive,” Chua said.

Trade Secretary Ramon M. Lopez said RCEP is “beyond liberalization” because of the Asean and the Asean+1 free trade agreements that already have a high rate of liberalization of about 85 percent to 95 percent.

“Joining RCEP just means increasing it by three points more. Delaying RCEP means losing opportunities to bring our products to other countries with lower tariffs and losing these markets, as well as other opportunities opened by RCEP in areas such as services, investment, MSMEs, e-commerce, for Filipino services exporters and skilled professionals,” he said.

The RCEP is a free-trade agreement among the 10 members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean), along with China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand. This covers roughly 50.4 percent of the Philippines’ export markets, 67.3 percent of the country’s import sources, and a source of 58 percent of Foreign Direct Investments (FDI).

Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas

Pangandaman...

Continued from A1

Drawing on her formidable experience in the Legislative Branch as chief of staff to former Senate President Edgardo J. Angara and then Chairperson of the Senate Finance Committee Loren B. Legarda, Pangandaman actively lobbied for the enactment of the central bank’s priority legislative measures around financial inclusion, digital transformation, and consumer protection.

Prior to this, Pangandaman served as budget undersecretary functioning as Group Head of the Office of Secretary under then budget chief Benjamin E. Diokno from 2016 to 2019. During her near three-year term, she served as a key mover in the preparation, implementation and monitoring of the General Appropriations Act. She also oversaw the implementation of Green, Green, Green—a budget assistance program for local government units to develop sustainable public open spaces.

Pangandaman earned her bachelor’s degree in Economics from the Far Eastern University. She holds a diploma and master’s degree in Development Economics from the University of the Philippines and is currently pursuing her Executive Master of Public Administration from the London School of Economics.

Other Cabinet picks

THE Commission on Elections, meanwhile, said there is no legal restriction to the appointment of Anti-Crime and Terrorism Community Involvement and Support, Inc. (ACT-CIS) party-list nominee and broadcaster Erwin T. Tulfo as secretary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in the next administration.

Citing the Constitution, Acting Comelec Spokesman John Rex Laudiangco clarified that Tulfo is not covered by the one-year ban for any losing candidate in an election from being appointed in any government office.

“A nominee is not the candidate. The party-list group is the candidate,” Laudiangco explained in a brief statement on Monday.

Tulfo is the fourth nominee of the ACT-

Duterte...

Continued from A1

“This administration was able to raise infrastructure spending to above 5 percent of GDP, double the level recorded by the previous four administrations. Under this administration, big-ticket infrastructure projects that were faced with delays for decades were finally implemented, providing quality jobs to over 6.5 million people,” he said.

Several game-changing reforms have also enabled the country to recover and rebuild from the Covid-19 pandemic, including the enactment of the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises Act (CREATE), which lowered corporate income taxes and redesigned the fiscal incentives system; and the amendments to the Retail Trade Liberalization Act, Public Service Act, and Foreign Investments Act. Dominguez said these measures will bring in high-value investments that the country

CIS, which got three seats in the House of Representatives after getting 5.7 percent or 2.1 million of the 36.8 million votes casted for partylist groups.

The party-list group’s first three nominees, who are likely to become its representatives in Congress, are Edvic G. Yap, Jocelyn P. Tulfo, and Jeffrey Soriano.

Trixie Cruz-Angeles, the press secretary of President-elect Ferdinand “Bongbong”R. Marcos, Jr. announced on Monday that Tulfo has accepted his nomination to be the next secretary of DSWD. Also an upcoming official in the next administration, Angeles said, is Liloan Cebu Mayor Christina G. Frasco, who will be serving as the next head of the Department of Tourism (DOT). See related story on page A12.

DSWD spokesperson Irene B. Dumlao welcomed the nomination of Tulfo.

“The women and men of DSWD are committed to support Mr. Erwin Tulfo in the fulfillment of the Department’s mandate and its pursuit of providing efficient and effective services for the poor, vulnerable, and marginalized,” Dumlao said.

Local government succession

WITH Frasco leaving her post as mayor of the Municipality of Liloan, she will be succeeded by her vice mayor.

Comelec Commissioner George M. Garcia said, “It will be her vice mayor, who will assume her position.”Likewise, Laudiangco said there will be similar succession among the Liloan municipal council members as stipulated under the Local Government Code.

This will leave at least one vacant council member in the municipality.

Garcia said the vacancy will be filled up by an appointment by the Cebu governor. “[The appointee will be] coming from the party of the one who caused the last vacancy,” Garcia said. needs to upskill its workforce and modernize the economy.

Despite increased borrowings to procure vaccines and provide relief to vulnerable sectors while maintaining economic investments, Dominguez said the country’s debt level remains sustainable and the country’s historichigh credit ratings were maintained despite downgrades among the country’s peers globally.

The finance chief also expressed confidence that the Philippines is now on its way to rapid recovery as the pandemic subsides.

“Our strategies in 2021 have culminated in a full-year growth of 5.7 percent, exceeding targets and expectations. The economy even grew by 8.3 percent in the first quarter of 2022, making the country’s expansion the highest in the Asean region and among our credit rating peers,”he said.

“I am extremely proud to have served under this president. Although this was a period challenged by a pandemic, it was also a time that the government firmly demonstrated that it could respond decisively to any emergency,” he said.

www.businessmirror.com.ph

The Nation BusinessMirror

Envoys from Singapore, UK, France, EU tackle diplomatic, trade ties in BBM courtesy visits

P

RESIDENT-ELECT Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. on Monday received ambassadors from Singapore, United Kingdom, France, and European Union during separate courtesy calls at the BBM headquarters in Mandaluyong City.

First to visit Marcos was Singapore Ambassador to the Philippines Gerard Ho, at around 9 a.m., followed shortly by Ambassador Laure Beaufils of United Kingdom.

At around 11 a.m., European Union (EU) Ambassador Luc Vèron also paid a visit followed by Ambassador Michelle Boccoz of France who arrived at about 12 noon.

In their private meetings with Marcos, the envoys vowed to strengthen the ties in trade and diplomacy, as well as their common interests in democracy, self-determination, and economic recovery.

Singapore Ambassador Ho discussed with reporters the highlights of his short meeting with Marcos.

“As you know, Singapore and Philippines are friends and close partners. [Our] countries are both founding members of Asean and successive generations of Singaporean and Philippine leaders have worked together for the peace and prosperity of the region,” Ambassador Ho said in his opening statement to the media.

“In fact, during our conversation earlier with president-elect, we talked about all the conversations our founding father Mr. Lee and his father Mr. Ferdinand Marcos had talked about when we were discussing developments in the region and working together on it,” Ho added.

The ambassador also discussed the economic reforms between the two Asian countries.

“I think with the resumption of cross-border travel, as well as the passage of a lot of significant economic reforms in the Philippines, we are hopeful that we continue to grow this bilateral economic relationship with the Philippines and it will continue to flourish,” the ambassador noted.

We see a lot of growth potential in the Philippines and we hope to see more and more Singapore companies coming into the Philippines’ market,” Ho added.

Ho also confirmed that Singapore President Halimah Yacob invited Marcos to visit their country.

However, he clarified that there are no details yet, as they are still discussing the schedule of the two leaders.

Ambassador Beaufils of the UK also insisted on the good relationship of their country with the Philippines.

“So, I am delighted that I just came out of the meeting with the

President-elect which was really useful, very informative, and very warm. I was able to set out that the UK already has a really strong bilateral relationship with the Philippines and a strong friendship between our countries and between our peoples and that we intend to take that from strength-to-strength over the course of the president-elect’s administration,” Beaufils noted.

“We were able to discuss areas of particular joint interests where we want to further work together and expand and broaden and deepen our collaboration. For example, as you know, the President-elect is very focused on the economy and we…boosting the economy after the pandemic and we were able to discuss what the UK has been doing in that space and what more we would do support businesses, to support trade, to support investments and infrastructure in particular,” she added.

Beaufils added that they also talked about climate change, energy, peace process in Mindanao and also human rights and media freedom.

“And I said I was very much looking forward to working with the next administration,” Beaufils said.

Ambassadors from France and EU did not allow media interview, citing prior commitments, but the EU envoy e-mailed the following statement: “I am grateful for the opportunity to meet President-elect Marcos ahead of his inauguration. We had an excellent conversation about the state of the world and his ambitions for the Philippines in the coming years. I am also heartened to hear that the incoming President is willing to work with the EU and its member-states. I do not doubt that the EU-Philippines cooperation based on shared values and objectives will deepen under the Marcos administration,” Ambassador Véron said.

The ambassador also conveyed the EU’s congratulatory wishes in advance of the letters of the President of the European Council and the President of the European Commission. The EU High Representative Josep Borrell had previously congratulated the Philippines and its President-elect on May 12.

Last week, Marcos Jr. received the United States Chargé d’Affaires, and the Ambassadors from Japan, South Korea, and India during separate meetings at his headquarters in Mandaluyong City.

The envoys assured Marcos of their willingness to provide necessary assistance to hasten the country’s recovery from the ill-effects of the pandemic.

Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug • Tuesday, May 31, 2022 A3

Google blocks 3.4-B ‘misleading’ ads in 2021

By Roderick L. Abad

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Contributor

@rodrik_28

ORE than 3.4 billion ads in 2021 were removed or blocked

by Google for violating its ads policies, including abusive placements related to the ensuing pandemic, according to its annual study.

Per the tech giant’s Ads Safety Report, the number of campaign promotions it took away from its platform last year grew by 300 million from 3.1 billion in 2020.

The top 3 most implemented policies were abusing the ad network (652.1 million), adult content (286.6 million), and trademarks (136.9 million).

Ads were, likewise, removed due to misrepresentation, gambling, health care, copyrights, and alcohol contents.

Google was also focused on preventing abuse in ads related to Covid-19 for claims about vaccines,

testing, and price gouging for critical supplies like masks.

Since the health crisis started, it has already blocked over 106 million ads related to the pandemic and backed local nongovernment organizations and government agencies with $250 million in ad grants to help connect people to accurate vaccine information.

In addition to that, it suspend more than 5.6 million advertiser accounts, restricted over 5.7 billion ads, and blocked ads from serving on 1.7 billion publisher pages.

The leading search engine pro-

vider also took broader site-level enforcement action on around 63,000 publisher sites in 2021.

With the tripled number of account-level suspensions for advertisers last year, Google said it keeps on seeing bad actors operate with more sophistication, and at a greater scale.

It witnessed various tactics, such as creation of thousands of accounts simultaneously and using techniques like cloaking and text manipulation to evade their detection.

Google issued a warning about cryptocurrency where it saw a sharp spike in the number of ads promoting it.

“User safety is at the top of our list when we make decisions about ads and monetized content on our platforms. In fact, thousands of Googlers work around the clock to prevent malicious use of our advertising services and help make them safer for people, businesses and publishers,” it said.

“This year, we’ll continue to address areas of abuse across our platforms and network to protect users and help credible advertisers and publishers. Providing more transparency and control over the ads people

see is a big part of that goal,” it added.

The tech leader is still working to verify advertisers in 180 countries who fail to finish verification when prompted are automatically suspended.

It vows to roll out new innovations on features like “About this ad” menu to tell advertisers why an ad was shown, and which advertiser ran it.

For Truelogic General Manager Ibarra Villaseran, Google’s initiative to suspend accounts and enforce stricter ad policies is “all in favor of its users.”

“It’s about trust. For the consumers, it’s trusting that your privacy is protected whilst ensuring that you get to enjoy Google’s products and services. To advertisers, this helps balance the field and promote the legitimacy of your brand or business,” he said.

With the continued improvements in Google and other platform policies, Villaseran added that “advertisers—whether agencies and businesses themselves—need to be on your toes all the time and keep abreast with all these changes. There will be more to come.”

Sadain highlights Duterte admin’s Cebu ARBs skill achievements under BBB program learn on organic

By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan

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HE chief implementer of the “Build, Build, Build ” (BBB) program, the flagship infrastructure thrust of the Duterte administration, bannered the government’s achievements in building infrastructure across the Philippine archipelago.

According to a copy of his speech at the Duterte Legacy Summit, BBB Chief Implementer Emil K. Sadain said the Infrastructure Cluster (IC) was able to meet the “fundamental objective” of the program by increasing spending to as much as 5.8 percent of the GDP in 2021 from only 3.9 percent in 2016.

“The fundamental objective of the Build, Build, Build program is to invest adequately in infrastructure to support and sustain the country’s growing economic activities represented by its Gross Domestic Product. The collective efforts of the Infrastructure Cluster allowed it to meet annual public infrastructure spending targets of at least five percent,” he was quoted as saying.

Sadain noted the investments are reflected mainly on the “physical progress of the various infrastructure projects, programs and activities implemented by the different members of the Cluster since 2016.”

He divided the infrastructure development program into two:

digital connectivity and physical connectivity.

Digital highways

ON the digital front, Sadain said the government was able to implement the following projects: The National Broadband Program (NBP), the Luzon Bypass Infrastructure, the Free WiFi for All program, the National Government Data Center program, and the Tech4ED program.

As of March, the first phase of the NBP is at 73.5 percent completion rate. The Luzon Bypass Infrastructure, on the other hand, has already commenced operations.

The Free WiFi for All program, meanwhile, has established 7,977 operational sites in public areas nationwide. Furthermore, the National Government Data Center program generated four data center facilities that are now active, supporting 94 hosted agencies and 26 co-located agencies.

Lastly, the Tech4ED or the Digital Transformation Centers program resulted in the establishment of 4,951 centers with 10 online and offline modules available on the platform.

“Digital connectivity is essential in today’s day and age and its importance was highlighted further amid the Covid-19 pandemic which limited our physical contact when conducting our activities,” Sadain said.

Physical connections

HE also bannered the government’s achievements on the physical infrastructure front.

The Department of Transportation (DOTr), Sadain said, was able to develop 579 commercial seaport projects, 248 airport projects, and two major railway projects.

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), on the other hand, was able to build, maintain, widen, upgrade, and rehab 40,089 kilometersofroads,includingfarm-to-market, tourism, access, and trade roads.

It has also implemented the Luzon Spine Expressway Network program and Mega Bridge program, which resulted in 6,854 bridges constructed, widened, upgraded, rehabilitated, and strengthened.

The agency was also able to complete 13,917 flood control projects.

Other social infrastructure projects of the IC include those from the Department of Social Welfare and Development, the Department of Education, the Department of Health, and the Bases Conversion and Development Authority.

“Through the efforts of the IC, infrastructure were built not to serve as trophies nor testaments to the accomplishments of government, but built to serve the Filipino people and improve their lives. Success of IC initiatives can only be measured by their positive effect on the lives of the Filipino people,” Sadain said.

agriculture

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TOTAL of 27 agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) from Asturias, Cebu recently completed seminars and trainings on climate change and organic farming technologies, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) said on Monday.

Through DAR’s Climate Resilient Farm Productivity Support (CRFPS), the farmer-members of the Pundok Maguuma (PUMAG) in Barangay San Isidro, Asturias, were trained on vermicomposting, soil management and soil fertility, Chief Agrarian Reform Program Officer Randolph Olvis said in a news statement.

“The past years, the farmers have been experiencing extreme weather conditions like droughts. This program will help them adapt to climate change because it will capacitate them with the right technologies to compensate for the adverse effects of climate change on crops and yields and to boost agricultural productivity through organic farming,” Olvis said.

The farmers actively engaged in demonstration and hands-on activity based on the topics presented by the resource speakers.

The PUMAG farmers were also encouraged to practice organic farming to enhance the fertility of the soil, improve farm biodiversity to help prevent the further depletion of natural resources. Jonathan L. Mayuga

Solon: Let’s go beyond filing of diplomatic protests over Chinese territorial incursions Soon-to-be private citizen Duterte

By Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz @joveemarie

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HOUSE deputy minority leader on Monday prodded the incoming BBM administration to be more proactive now in asserting the Philippines’ territorial rights rather than just lodging diplomatic protests.

House Deputy Minority Leader and Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Isagani Zarate issued the statement following the latest incidents wherein Chinese Coast Guard and militia vessels reportedly staged a back-to-back harassment of Philippine ships in Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) in April.

Zarate said the two incidents in the Philippineoccupied atoll, which took place several hours apart, were

tracked by the Washingtonbased think tank Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative (Amti) of the Center for Strategic and International Studies, which closely follows developments in the South China Sea using satellite images and transponder system.

“Filing of diplomatic protests or demarche, or even summoning China’s ambassador to explain its continued incursions, aggression and occupation of maritime features in the West Philippine Sea may no longer be enough. Clearly, China does not accept accountability, like it even insisted that Julian Felipe Reef is theirs even if it is clearly part of our exclusive economic zone [EEZ]; worse now, is their new tactic of risk collisions near Ayungin shoal to isolate the atoll in our own territory,” said Zarate.

“China has practically thrown to the garbage the previous diplomatic protests filed by the Philippines as it continuously violates the territory of the Philippines and tramples on our sovereign rights. At best, a diplomatic protest serves to merely register for the record the Philippine government’s position on these incursions,” he added.

Unless the president denounces what China is doing, the lawmaker said the diplomatic protests filed by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) would just continuously fall on China’s “deaf ears.”

“The government can still, in fact, resort to UNCLOS and other treaty bodies to demand justice for what China is doing.

Malacañang must assert the historic Permanent Tribunal ruling in 2016,” he said.

“China must be held to account for its aggressive imperialist acts, not only for them to leave our occupied reefs and other parts of our EEZ but also to salvage the country’s dignity from a humiliating servile relationship with China. If President Duterte or the incoming president will just continue this servile foreign policy to China, then the WPS is as good as sold or surrendered by default to China,” Zarate added.

Earlier, incoming presidentelect Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. vowed to assert the country’s rights over the WPS. “Our sovereignty is sacred and we will not compromise it in any way. We will not allow a single square millimeter of our maritime coastal...rights to be trampled upon,” he told selected media during an interview.

prepares for Malacañang departure

By Butch Fernandez

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@butchfBM

EN. Christopher Go confirmed Monday President Duterte is already packing up his personal belongings from the Malacañang and is preparing for his return to Davao City.

In a brief statement, the trusted DuterteallyreportedDutertehasstarted to prepare for his trip back to Davao City this early where he intends to stay as a private citizen with his family.

Go added: “We’re sad that the President’s Palace term is just about to end, even as he intends to do a lot more for the country. I am happy nevertheless that could be able to get a much-deserved rest knowing fully well he gave his to serve the country as father of the nation.”

Go reaffirmed his commitment to “serving the Filipinos, uplifting the lives of those in need, and boosting the country’s development,” as an

elected public servant.

“Nakakawala ng pagod kapag nakakatulong sa kapwa. Mas sumisigla ako kapag nakikita ko sa mga mata ng ating mga kababayan ang panibagong pagusbong ng pag-asa. Ito ang dahilan kung bakitpatuloyakongnaninindigannagampanan ang aking tungkulin bilang lingkod bayan,” the neophyte senator shared.

At the same time, he reaffirmed his commitment, saying: “Sa aking mga kababayan, kahit saang sulok man ng bansa, handa po akong tumulong sa abot ng aking makakaya upang pakinggan ang inyong mga hinaing, masolusyunan ang inyong mga problema, at mag-iwan ng ngiti sa oras ng inyong pagdadalamhati.”

Go added: “I have no more to ask God because I have been so blessed to be given the chance to serve you.

My only prayer now is for us to recover and bounce back again from the crisis we are facing as a united and more stable nation.”

Economy BusinessMirror

A4 Tuesday, May 31, 2022 • Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug

DTI banners SIPP to sustain Philippine economic recovery

By Andrea San Juan

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RADE Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo emphasized that the recently approved Strategic Investment Priority Plan (SIPP) will sustain the momentum towards economic recovery, saying SIPP will create and recover jobs for Filipinos.

“We are truly making it happen in the Philippines, as the SIPP aims to hasten the transformation of the country’s economy into a modern and efficient one with highly-developed infrastructure,” said Rodolfo.

Further, the trade undersecretary noted that the investment plan plays an enormous role in the country’s goal of bouncing back from the economic challenges brought about by the pandemic.

The Philippine Board of Investments (BOI), for its part stressed that

with SIPP’s approval, the board is set to promote the notable features of SIPP in key regions and cities in the country and target foreign markets as well.

In addition, the BOI said that it aims to inform industry players, concerned stakeholders, and prospective and existing foreign investors on the business opportunities waiting in line for them.

Further, the investments board noted that it would guide these businesses on how they can further grow their businesses by availing of the investment incentives under the SIPP such as income tax holidays and duty-free importation of capital equipment.

Meanwhile, Trade Secretary and BOI Chairman Ramon Lopez pointed out that the SIPP serves as an engine toward the national industrial revolution to beef up industries and yield more diversified, complex, and sophisticated products and services in the Philippines.

“The approval by the President of the SIPP is opportune, as the country is heading towards economic recovery. This will catalyze industrial development,” said Lopez.

Particularly, the SIPP adopts the 2020 Investment Priorities Plan (IPP) as Tier I as the base structure for Philippine Development; it determines products or services which are not locally

produced, for consideration for Tier II; and identifies high technology activities critical to the transformation of the economy and attracting technology investments for Tier III. The SIPP’s Tier I contains the preferred activities under the 2020 IPP, which include all qualified activities relating to the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic.

Meanwhile, Tier II has activities that will fill in the gaps in the Philippine industrial value chains, which are critical in promoting green ecosystems, ensuring a dependable health system, achieving robust self-reliance in defense systems, and transforming into modern, competitive, and integrated and selfreliant industries and agriculture by filling in value chain gaps and encouraging industries for import substitution and competitively ensure food security.

For Tier III, the activities are meant to expedite the transformation of the Philippine economy as well as utilize Industry 4.0 technologies such as the use of the automated system, smart machines/ systems, industrial internet of things (IIOT), cloud computing, cognitive computing, advanced robotics, artificial intelligence, 3D printing, among others.

Under All Qualified Activities Relating to the Fight against the Covid-19 Pandemic are the following: essential goods and services; all Qualified Manufacturing Activities such as Agro-Processing; agriculture, fishery, and forestry; strategic

services such as integrated circuit design, creative industries, and telecommunications; mass housing; infrastructure and logistics, including Local Government Unit-Public Private Partnerships; innovation drivers, including research and development, commercialization of new and emerging technologies, and start-ups; inclusive business models such as agribusiness and tourism; environment or climate-change related projects; and energy.

Export Activities consist of production and manufacture of export products; services exports such as voice services; and other activities in support of exporters such as repair and maintenance and logistics services.

While under Special Laws are industrial tree plantation; exploration, mining, quarrying, and processing of minerals, publication or printing of books; refining, storage, marketing, and distribution of petroleum products; rehabilitation, self-development, and self-reliance of persons with disability (PWD); renewable energy; tourism; and energy efficiency and conservation.

On May 24, President Duterte approved the 2022 SIPP. With this, the SIPP becomes effective 15 days upon publication in a newspaper of general circulation.

The SIPP supersedes the 2020 Investment Priorities Plan (IPP), which served as the transitional SIPP to ensure the continued promotion of investments and processing of qualified projects.

Oil companies hike diesel, kerosene prices; gas cheaper by ₧1.70 per liter

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IL firms announced on Monday they are going to hike diesel and kerosene prices while gasoline prices will go down starting Tuesday morning.

Effective 6 a.m. of May 31, gasoline prices will go down by P1.70 per liter.

Diesel meanwhile, will increase by P1.20 per liter, while a P2.45 per liter hike in kerosene will be implemented.

Seaoil, PTT, Petron, Shell, Total, Caltex, Phoenix, Unioil, and Cleanfuel announced the price adjustment on Monday.

Last week, gasoline prices went up by P3.95 per liter. On the other hand, diesel was slashed by P2.30 per liter and kerosene by P2.45 per liter. These resulted to

the year-to-date adjustments to stand at a net increase of P25.55/liter for gasoline, P29.10/liter for diesel and P25.20/liter for kerosene.

Oil firms adjust their prices weekly to reflect movements in the world oil market.

Meanwhile, PTT said its Edsa Veterans retail station in Quezon City was named among the Top 10 Liquid Fuels Retail Outlets in the joint Department of Energy (DOE)-Angkas Near Real-Time Price Monitoring, a project aimed at providing consumers with accurate oil prices and information on quality services and facilities of gasoline stations in Metro Manila. Lenie Lectura

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Education—the basis to create the Knowledge Society

By Henry J. Schumacher

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LL countries and people are changing rapidly—as the market economy, democratic politics, and the millennial and Generation Z culture spread.

American management thinker Peter Drucker described this development as the “Knowledge Society.”

By this Drucker meant that—in our world today—knowledge has become the basic human resource.

Nowadays, value is created not so much by capitalists, workers, and natural resources, as by productivity and innovation—both of which are the application of knowledge to work. Today, value is created primarily by intelligence—creativity—and inventiveness. The new tribe are “knowledge workers”— individuals who know how to allocate knowledge to productive use.

This leads to the clear understanding that we need more focus on education; with the new incoming leadership in the Department of Education, the focus of both the new government and the private sector that to be the understanding that the systematic acquisition of knowledge is the ultimate ladder to opportunity!

Education must intensify and broaden the need to educate all its people. No longer will it suffice to educate a tiny elite that will then manage and direct the politics, the economy, and the culture of the many. Sara Duterte will be busy!

Development will require not only a corps of highly skilled individuals capable of absorbing advance technology; it will also require a minimum of scientific literacy and technological skill; it will also need the setting of professional standards, the delineation of fields of expertise, and the

organization of communities of knowledge. Education can no longer afford to leave anybody behind.

All young people—whether they go to college or not—will need a similar set of core competencies if they are to succeed in today’s labor market. Government, the private sector and civil society have to work closely together to Safe the Children. We must realize that 40 percent of the Philippine population is in school!

If the Philippines were to survive in the ever-changing, fast moving, technology-driven world taking shape before our eyes, the country has to position itself strategically in this new economy. The end-effort must be to secure the Philippines’s place on the right side of the digital divide the revolutions in communications, information, and computer technologies are creating. This requires a work-class work force, something that the ICT, BPO and creative industries have been asking for. And because knowledge has become the modern economy’s central resource, we must keep in mind continuous learning has become essential. So swift is the generation and transmission of knowledge that learning has become a life-long process for every one of us.

On the industry side, we are already seeing moves from sectors that will be significantly affected by the adoption of AI such as high tech and telecom, financial services, manufacturing, transportation and logistics, health care and education. The Asian Development Bank anticipates that a quarter of jobs in outsourcing and electronics will be lost due to automation, but this loss will be offset by new roles within those industries.

Let’s also bear in mind that digitalization means that new skills and capabilities are needed, and companies must provide the appropriate programs for their employees to remain competitive.

In conclusion, let me repeat— again—the wise words of Ramon del Rosario, Chairman of Philippine Business for Education: “It’s the private sector that is creating the jobs. But government has to create an enabling environment for the jobs to be created!”

Feedback is highly appreciated; contact me at hjschumacher59@ gmail.com

News BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

ES: Palace transition process has reached department level

By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla

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XECUTIVE Secretary (ES) Salvador C. Medialdea on Monday confirmed that the transition process for the next administration is now ongoing at the department level.

In an ambush interview during the Duterte Legacy Summit (DLS) at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), the head of the Presidential Transition Committee (PTC) said they have already met with the chief of staff and spokesperson of President-elect Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr., Victor D. Rodriguez.

He noted the meeting happened after Marcos Jr.’s proclamation last week by Congress after he got 31.6 million votes.

“Under the proclamation of the administration, each department will have its own transition,” Medialdea said.

The Palace official said the last Cabinet meeting was held on Monday afternoon so they could present updates of their transition efforts to President Duterte.

Earlier this month, President Duterte issued Administrative Order No. 47 creating the PTC to support the next administration during the transition process. The PTC will ensure the transition will not lead to any disruption in government service.

Post-presidency

MEDIALDEA also addressed reports on the possibility of Duterte serving under the new administration as drug czar.

“I know there were hints about it, but I don’t know whether he will accept it or not,” Medialdea said.

In an interview last week, Marcos said he is open to Duterte joining his Cabinet.

Medialdea said he is still not aware of Duterte’s plans after the end of his term on June 30, 2022.

“I really don’t know [his final plans]. He said he was going to teach…in Davao,” Medialdea said.

He noted the President is about to wrap up shipping his personal belongings from Malacañang to Davao City.

“He is about to complete it since he already started sending his things [to Davao] two or three months ago,” Medialdea said.

Duterte legacy

MEDIALDEA was the keynote spea ker du r i ng t he t wo - d ay Duterte Legacy Summit, which started last Monday.

In his speech, the Palace official noted that the Duterte administration succeeded in changing the lives of many peoples for the better through initiatives such as the Build, Build, Build infrastructure program, passage of the Universal Health Care Act and providing free college education in state universities.

Duterte was also able to institutionalize efficiency, transparency, and integrity in government transactions, and the improvement in the delivery of clean water, housing, electricity to most Filipinos, as well as giving free irrigation to farmers, according to Medialdea.

He also cited the administration’s campaign against illegal drugs and efforts to eradicate communist insurgency in the country as its other achievements.

“My thoughts and words here do not weigh as much as the ones our fellow kababayan will share,” Medialdea said.

“Thus, it is through this summit that we hear their encouraging stories. Many of which have been shaped by the spirit of selfless service of men and women behind the Duterte administration,” he added.

The Duterte Legacy Summit, which featured the accomplishment report of the government clusters as well as testimonies of the individuals who benefited from their programs, will end on Tuesday.

Conservation official recommends transfer of eagle sanctuary amid new bird flu threat

By Manuel T. Cayon @awimailbox Mindanao Bureau Chief

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AVAO CITY—The Philippine Eagle conservation program is facing fresh pressures—both from the activities of its neighbors in its current location —and the need for more protection of the remaining endangered eagles in the wild.

Andi Baldonado, the Philippine Eagle Foundation development manager, said the current location of the conservation and breeding camp in Barangay Malagos, has become susceptible to proximate danger to the spread of the avian flu.

Around Barangay Malagos were many households going into backyard poultry and game farms, she said, getting the eagles more exposed now than ever to the avian flu.

“Malagos is now susceptible,” she said.

She said the nearest avian flu outbreak was in the town of Magsaysay,

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Hospital in Silay City, Negros Occidental; Unayan Municipal Hospital in Binidayan, Lanao del Sur; Balindong District Hospital in Wato-Balindong, Lanao del Sur; Eastern Pangasinan District Hospital in Tayug, Pangasinan; Laurel Memorial District Hospital in Tanauan City, Batangas; Ilocos Sur District Hospital in Magsingal, Ilocos Sur; Mangatarem District Hospital in Mangatarem, Pangasinan; Congressman Natalio O. Castillo Sr. Memorial Hospital in Loon, Bohol; Roxas District Hospital in Roxas, Oriental Mindoro; Dr. Serapio B. Montaner Jr. Memorial Hospital in Malabang, Lanao del Sur; Martin Marasigan Memorial Hospital in Cuenca, Batangas; and Lingayen District Hospital in Lingayen, Pangasinan.

In addition, he listed bills converting the Governor Celestino Gallares Memorial Hospital in Tagbilaran City, Bohol to the Governor Celestino Gallares Multi-Specialty Medical Complex; and the Oriental Mindoro Central District Hospital in Pinamalayan, Oriental Mindoro into a provincial hospital, which also hurdled the second reading in the Senate.

Also approved on second reading were bills upgrading the Lipa City District Hospital in Lipa City, Batangas into a Level II Hospital; Orani District Hospital in Orani, Bataan into a Level II General Hospital to be known as the Antonino “Tony” P. Roman Memorial Hospital; and the

some 100 kilometers southwest of the center. She said the nearest outbreak is in Magsaysay, about 100 kilometers southwest of the center, “and there is a threat that this would be locked down again.”

A single case of an infected eagle may potentially wipe out the 34 eagles currently in the camp, she warned.

There are biosecurity measures such the barring of entry vehicles and forbidding personnel from going near the eagles. Only their keepers are allowed to go near the birds of prey.

“The threat of contamination has become more frequent also,” she said, citing the threat in 2017. In 2019 the PEF moved two eagles to a conservation camp in Singapore as a precaution to an event of an avian flu infection in the camp.

The Philippine eagle conservation program has been put up 35 years ago.

The latest estimate of the number of eagles in the wild has been

placed at 400, but Baldonado said the danger to their extinction remain real from hunters and other persons who consume the eagle for food. She said seven were rescued and taken to the center in 2020, four more last year, and one was sent to the center this year.

“One in three eagles rescued and sent to the center has a gunshot wound, or a pellet embedded in their body,” she said.

“This is another alarming trend because how much we promote conservation, accept them here, breed eagles and release them in the wilds, there are still eagles who are being trapped and being shot,” Baldonado said.

She said the PEF has tapped the assistance of 500 forest guards in the Philippines, including 200 forest guards in the Davao Region. They would monitor for any destructive human activity in the forests, such as illegal cutting of trees, mining, animal trapping and hunting of endangered birds, including the

Wage board okays pay raise for NorMin workers–DOLE O VER 200,000 minimum wage earners and domestic workers in Northern Mindanao will soon be getting a pay hike, according to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

In a statement issued on Monday, Labor and Employment Secretary Silvestre H. Bello III said the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board-Region 10 (RTWPB-Region 10) recently issued Wage Order (WO) No. RX-10 implementing a two-part minimum wage increase this year.

The order will grant a P25 pay increase for minimum wage earners immediately after it takes effect, while its second part provides a P15 to P22 pay hike, which will take ef-

Go pushes passage of bills to upgrade public hospitals OVING to boost government efforts to effectively contain the deadly Covid contagion, the Senate has passed 30 bills on second reading inching closer to final approval of immediatelyneeded remedial legislation aimed at “improving, developing, and establishing” public hospitals in different parts of the country.

Sponsored by administration Sen. Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go as chairman of the endorsing Committee on Health, the bills passed awaiting final approval on third and final reading seek “to continue building on the progress made by the country to improve its health-care system in light of the pandemic.”

While he acknowledged the continued improvement of the Covid-19 situation, Go reminded that certain regions are still classified to be “at minimal risk.”

“Let us not waste the efforts and sacrifices of our government and health-care workers,” he stressed.

The senator confirmed that among the bills passed on second reading are increasing the bed capacity of the Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center in Baguio City; Ospital ng Palawan in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan; Davao Regional Medical Center in Tagum City, Davao del Norte; Gov. Faustino N. Dy Sr. Memorial Hospital in Ilagan City, Isabela; Concepcion District Hospital in Concepcion, Tarlac; Teresita Lopez Jalandoni Provincial

Tuesday, May 31, 2022 A5

Novaliches District Hospital in Quezon City into a Level II Hospital.

Other bills include measures establishing improved government hospitals like the Ospital ng Meycauayan in Meycauayan, Bulacan; Iloilo City Hospital in Iloilo City; Liloan Children’s Hospital in Liloan, Cebu; Aklan Geriatric Medical Center in Kalibo, Aklan; Isaac Tolentino Memorial Medical Center in Tagaytay City, Cavite; Panabo City District Hospital in Panabo City, Davao del Norte; Lamidan Community Hospital in Don Marcelino, Davao Occidental; and the Nuing Community Hospital in Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental.

In sponsoring 39 laws aimed at upgrading existing government hospitals and establishing new ones, Go cited the need to increase hospital bed capacity of most of the public hospitals that have been a challenge during the public health crisis, prompting authorities to establish modular hospitals.

“It is for these reasons,” he stressed, “that improving health capacity and delivery in the provinces would help enhance the health and overall well-being of all Filipinos,” stressing that “Filipino families must be able to enjoy easy access to responsive health-care systems even in the provinces and rural areas.”

This, even as he reminded Filipinos to “get vaccinated or booster against Covid-19 as a show of appreciation for the sacrifices and hard-work of frontliners during the pandemic.” Butch Fernandez

fect on December 16, 2022.

Once the order takes full effect, the new minimum wage rates in the cities of Cagayan de Oro, Iligan, Malaybalay, Valencia, Gingoog, El Salvador, and Ozamis and the municipalities of Tagoloan, Villanueva, Jasaan, Opol, Maramag, Quezon, Manolo Fortich, and Lugait will be P405 for the non-agriculture sector and P393 for the agriculture sector.

WO RX-10 will also implement a P390 for the non-agriculture sector and P378 for the agriculture sector in the cities of Oroquieta and Tangub and the municipalities of Laguindingan, Mambajao, Balingasag, and all other areas, including retail and service establishments employing not

more than 10 workers. The RTWPBRegion 10 also issued RBX-DW-03 granting a monthly wage increase of P500 for domestic workers.

After the order takes effect, it will bring the new monthly minimum wage rate for domestic workers in Region 10 to P4,500 for cities and first-class municipalities and P3,500 for other municipalities.

“Around 152,924 workers in private establishments and 54,851 domestic workers are expected to benefit from the minimum wage increases,” Bello said.

Both WO RX-10 and WO RBXDW-03 are currently being reviewed by the National Wages and Productivity Commission (NWPC). Samuel P. Medenilla

With easing of travel curbs, BI chief sees further rise in tourist arrivals

T

HE Bureau of Immigration (BI) is expecting Philippinebound travelers to further increase as the country eases travel restrictions.

BI Commissioner Jaime Morente said the lifting of the negative RT-PCR and travel insurance requirements would make travel to the country easier.

However, while not required, health authorities said that securing a travel insurance remains highly recommended.

“With this development, travel will be easier in the new normal,” Morente said.

“We hope that this will boost the number of international arrivals in the next few months,” he added.

The BI said it has recorded around 15,000 arrivals per day during the summer season.

“ The arrivals have steadily increased since February, but has plateaued at the tail end of summer,” the BI chief reported.

Last month, the BI noted that passengerarrivalsattheairportshave been averaging between 13,000 and 15,000 daily compared to only 6,000 to 9,000 last February.

The country opened its borders anew to foreign nationals after the steady decline in the number of Covid-19 cases in the country, but stressed compliance with prescribed health protocols would have to be observed.

The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases had earlier advised that effective May 30, fully vaccinated foreign nationals with booster shot are exempted from the negative RTPCR test requirement. Joel R. San Juan

PCCI, Better Internet PH tie up seeks to boost local broadband connectivity

By Andrea San Juan

P

HILIPPINE Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) has partnered with Better Internet PH to prioritize legislative measures to improve broadband connectivity in the country.

“We have been laggards behind our Asean neighbors for the longest time in terms of better Internet and we should prioritize legislation that will improve our overall con-

nectivity,” PCCI President George Barcelon said.

Barcelon noted that better Internet connectivity would have profound impacts on the government, economy, tourism, education, and many other sectors, as it will entice more foreign direct investments.

For her part, Better Internet PH Lead Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Policy Analyst Grace Mirandilla-Santos echoed Barcelon’s statements.

Philippine eagle.

We have already registered our opposition to mining, especially open pit mining because of their threat to eagles and their nesting sites.

The PEF has already sought the assistance of the city government on its plan on an emergency transfer of some eagles to a safe and protected area. She said the city has committed an area in Barangay Eden, at the foothills of Mt. Apo. She said the new area would be about 50 hectares, much wider than the Malagos camp that is 4.5 hectares.

Baldonado said the Barangay Eden area would allow them to establish a protective buffer.

Baldonado said the PEF would need P36 million for an enclosure, and other accessory facility like a veterinary hospital. “We hope to get it from the city government or from any corporate sponsor.

At least the city government has committed the area, and it has been giving us P1.5 million yearly,” she added.

CA defers confirmation of Duterte appointees

By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM

F

OR the second time, the Commission on Appointments (CA) deferred the confirmation hearing of President Duterte’s last five nominees to the Commission on Elections (Comelec), Commission on Audit (COA) and the Civil Service Commission (CSC) after Senate Majority Leader Sen. Juan Miguel Zubiri moved to hold it, arguing that it would be best to give the next president a free hand in appointing people to these posts.

As a result of Zubiri’s motion, the CA moved to Wednesday (June 1), also the last session day of the 18th Congress, the deliberations on the nominations of Comelec Chairman Saidamen Pangarungan and Comelec Commissioners George Garcia and Aimee Torrefranca-Neri, as well as those of the chairmen-nominees of the COA (Rizalina Justol) and Civil Service Commissioner Karlo Nograles.

Zubiri noted that Justol, if confirmed, will serve as COA chief for seven years, even exceeding the term of incoming President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. That means, he said, “this new President, with the mandate of 31 million votes, will not even be able to appoint the head of the COA until even up to the last day of his term” because Justol will have a longer term.

According to Zubiri, “many” of the senators feel that maybe the selections for the constitutional offices should be left to President-elect Marcos, and he just wanted to be transparent about the sense of the chamber.

The plan, he disclosed, was to invoke Section 20 later during the plenary hearing of the CA on Wednesday.

He cited a precedent during the second Aquino administration when then Senator Juan Ponce Enrile sought to set aside the congressional confirmation of five ambassadors nominated by then President Benigno Aquino III. Instead, Enrile suggested the Aquino III nominees be set aside and instead allow the incoming Duterte administration to appoint the officials.

Sen. Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III, however, aired his frustration and instead suggested adopting a “caseto-case” basis in deciding to defer the confirmation, as the nominees are already before the CA members conducting the screening of nominees.

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Mothe

A BusinessMirr

Tuesday, May 31, 2022 | www.businessmirror.com.ph

Motherhood is getting better in the next normal

By Leony R. Garcia

ily is important, then we can fix everything,” she added.

W

HEN the World Health Organization declared the Covid-19 pandemic in March 2020, countries all over the world shut down borders and closed educational institutions and workplaces. The lockdown and movement restrictions left people scrambling to adapt to the new environment. Remote work and distance learning, among others, became the new norm.

This situation had a considerable impact on families who now lived, worked, and were educated in the same living space. Women, who already did about three-quarters of the cleaning, cooking, and childrearing—the unpaid work that, according to economists, makes all paid work possible—did more caregiving than ever.

Being a working mother became more challenging. Balancing career, motherhood, and household responsibilities during the coronavirus pandemic made women even more aware of how much more they were doing.

Filipino moms, most likely, experienced the same, and maybe even more.

Motherhood among Pinoy moms, pandemic-style

Dr. Bernadette Manalo Arcena, a psychiatrist from St. Luke’s Medi-

Lessons learned

cal Center, said mothers “literally became teachers to their children – overall instructor, chef, and entertainer for that matter because you have to keep those children

on the go.”

“As a mother, and at the same time if you’re working, that’s really double work. Plus, the fact, of course, is that you also have to take

care of your mental health. So, it was really a big challenge for women but as moms, we accepted the challenge!” she added Dr. Manalo was speaking before the online audience of BusinessMirror Coffee Club’s “Motherhood in the Next Normal” held on May 25.

As a frontliner who did her rounds in the Covid ward, it was difficult for Dr. Manalo “because there this the paranoia that I might contaminate my children whenever I go home.” So she had to make sure she was “super-duper clean,” disinfected and observed safety protocols when at home.

“You know, one thing that I want to share with you guys is that you are very blessed if you are alive right now. I saw how patients suffered. It was so hard to be intubated,” she said with sadness in her voice.

Prayers work

To overcome the frightening experience, Dr. Manalo always reminded herself to pray, be tough, have presence of mind, and be extra careful.

“When you go home you become a mom so there’s a switch of roles. I have to be softer, I have to be more relaxed, I have to condition myself that I’m not in the hospital anymore. I’m in the house. But really, I admit, I had this kind of paranoia that I might infect my kids.

You know, prayers work! And the most important blessing I got from above was that I never got the virus even if I worked in the Covid ward,” she said.

Samantha Catabas Manuel, Group Director of Digital Marketing of Megaworld Hotels and Resorts, had a similar experience.

“At the onset of the pandemic, I suddenly found myself wearing so many hats and it was really a challenge to multitask. Like in the morning, you wear a certain hat and change it in the afternoon and in even in the evening. Our time and routine were really challenged. But no matter what the challenges are, we will really step up to cope and overcome them,” Manuel stressed.

In her case, Manuel was dealing with two kids with totally different needs. The eldest was 13 and the younger one was six years old. There was a big age gap to fill and both were at awkward ages that demanded time and different care approaches.

“So, imagine I have to adjust to two different individuals simultaneously. I really had to balance. On top of it, as a working mom, I was adjusting to my own personal schedules, too. Good thing, the nature of my job was doing digital marketing. It was a blessing because I can practically work from anywhere. Wherever you put me, I can work,” she added.

Open communication

Manuel is happy to share that she managed to achieve one goal with her children – open communication.

“I made them understand what mommy is doing and I’m happy to be able to expose them to my kind of work. So, now they know why I’m busy and they understand why at times I can’t call or respond to them.

It was a sort of eye-opener for them and from my end also. I was able to relate also with my teenager like now I know what they do during a certain time of the day. And my little daughter, I get to see how she plays. It was basically an eye opener for both me and my kids. They see me as a working mom and I see them as growing kids,” she shared.

Marzen Hidalgo Salazar, Head of Operations and Development, Ministry of Information, Oman English Radio; and business owner, was based in Oman when the pandemic struck.

“We had the lockdown which started at the same time as that of the Philippines. It was horrible at the start because as a working mom I didn’t know how to deliver 100 percent to my job. I was in the media production and at the same time, I need to attend to my kids because they were staying and studying at home.

“I had the same routine, I would say for eight years, in the performance of my job, and suddenly it had to change. During the pandemic, it was also a realization for a lot of us that this is really what we wanted to do as mothers – to be with our kids. But of course, I needed to work and so I decided to have work shifts. To make the most of this rare moment, I connected with my kids. I think we bonded more, and I believe we became closer, during the pandemic,” Salazar narrated.

At the time Salazar had to work onsite and she had to divide her time between her home and the office. “I go onsite to work, and then I have to go back home and prepare food for the kids. After lunch, I go again to work outside.”

She said she agreed with Manuel and Dr. Manalo, that moms had to keep on changing hats, adding that she was also the driver all the time.

“It was really challenging. We tend to become supermoms. We want to give them the best and even keep them entertained at the same time. During the pandemic, I plan activities for the kids then worry that we may not do them because of the restrictions. Finally, my kids would understand that we don’t really have to do them. It was a matter of communication with them. It was a big change, but I think when you communicate with your kids and they realize that fam-

Hurdling the biggest motherhood challenge during the pandemic, Dr. Manalo said she has finally learned how to relax and take care of herself.

She has learned new hobbies such as becoming a plantita, too, which she found therapeutic for her.

“Before, I had no time to talk to my children, but now they could actually insist that we talk. I now also play the games they play even if I always end up the loser.

Today is the biggest challenge -and at the same time the biggest reward for mothers. Remember this could be the only time that we’ll see our kids 24/7. So, let’s accept things right now because the time will come that it will be traffic in Edsa again and that we won’t be seeing our children longer again because they would choose to be with their peers or play with computers longer again.

“The most important lesson from my end? I learned to be a cool mom, to wear hats on different angles and stay smiling,” Dr. Manalo said.

Likewise, Manuel learned to be appreciative of the blessings, family, and work she enjoyed despite the pandemic.

“There is the challenge to live the best of both worlds. At the end of the day, I’m also very thankful that I have my husband, we’ve been married for 18 years, as team workers. Today, I truly appreciate my teamwork with my husband because I couldn’t do everything without him,” she said.

“I’ve always been a hands-on mom but in this unusual time of the pandemic, we have developed a different bond as a family. We found ways to just enjoy ourselves at home. Now, we always find time to celebrate milestones. We keep on discovering things together. I think that’s the best lesson I will take with me as we move to the next normal.

That family’s experience during the crucial times would definitely be forever cherished. No matter what challenges that may come ahead, it would always be about looking at the positive things,” Manuel said.

Going home

Meanwhile, Salazar has delayed her plans of returning to the Philippines to personally attend to her growing business, Miss Derm for now. Right now, she said, she’s happy with her job and current position in the company, and the friends she made at Oman.

“But of course, things are different in the Philippines especially I have my baby in the Philippines which is Miss Derm. I was in the process of going back to the Philippines before the pandemic. When everything is okay then we can make the big decision to return for good. Right now, I’m just happy to have competent people and trusted colleagues in the Philippines to run my business,” she said.

Just like most individuals, she said, she learned to be grateful for her pandemic experiences.

“I felt that gratitude can make me feel contented. We’re all looking for peace of mind. I realized this is what will give me peace of mind: if I’m contented. And you know what?

When I started feeling content with what I had, I continue having more.

And every time there’s an addition, I see it’s a big thing!”

“I also learned that the strongest person you know can be weak and that is not a bad thing. I see people from my family, my circle of friends, and especially celebrities during the pandemic, they were so fragile like anyone of us. And whenever they tell or show us that they went through a lot, I realized that they are also human beings. And that’s also okay for them to feel what ordinary people feel. I think during the pandemic it became easier for us to share our feelings. And it was okay,” she said.

erhood

ror Special Feature

www.businessmirror.com.ph | Tuesday, May 31, 2022 A7

The SM Store makes Green Living easy for moms A

LMOST every quick guide to self-care says winning starts with taking charge of one’s self in the morning. It could be as simple as going for a walk, meditating, drinking coffee without hurry or reading without distractions. While self-care has many aspects, starting right is critical to helping moms make sound decisions throughout the day, from the clothes they wear to the products they use.

Sustainable self-care, according to the International Self Care Foundation, is practical and people-centered, and the people behind the SM Store affirms, that it can also be effortless with a clean home and a variety of clean beauty products from the SM Store.

Self-care is waking up to a home you love with SM Home The makings of a clean home begin not only by ensuring tidiness but also by investing in sustainable products that are built to last – benefiting you, the family, and the environment.

SM Home offers the best collection of global and homegrown products from

tableware, storage, linens, decor, and furniture. Waking up to a home that allows you to feel great for the rest of the day.

Take linens as an example, choose a sustainable type of fabric that is not only stronger, but quick to dry, and easy to maintain.

Preparing food in the kitchen also becomes easy to relish with high-quality and accessible set of kitchenware made of bamboo.

Choosing what and who to cook for, and cooking with intention and attention is a form of selfcare. A good, well-organized kitchen is a hallowed place for moms who know that food is fuel, and fuel is what keeps people going throughout the day.

Ending the day with clean beauty from SM Beauty After the chaos that comes with a packed schedule and some playtime with the kids in-between, the much-deserved “me time” for mom calls for a soothing bath, a nightly skincare ritual, and a favorite scented candle to bask in the tranquility of one’s private space.

SM Beauty offers a line of

Argan oil products that help revitalize hair. Under the label, Watsons Naturals -these products are made with the finest organic ingredients from around the world meant to draw from nature’s essential goodness for head-to-toe beautifying luxury.

Aside from better-sourced ingredients, Watsons Naturals uses better packaging to help reduce waste and make bottle recycling easier.

Clean beauty products help moms easily reinvigorate their senses from head to toe.

Recharged and ready to face the new dawn of the morning, they are empowered to take care of their loved ones better.

“To make the sustainable shift possible, we need to make the greener options widely available. For moms who split their time between work and taking care of family, finding and choosing sustainable options for self-care can feel tedious, unless we make sustainable the default,” says SM Retail Inc. President Ponciano Manalo Jr. Shop online for your home beauty essentials at shopsm.com or head to the nearest SM Store.

Mommies, you deserve that rest

O

NCE a woman gets pregnant and gives birth, she has somehow prepared herself for the maternal responsibilities and sacrifices that come with being a mother. They say being a mother is a full-time job by itself. Aside from taking care of the children, most mothers also cook meals, clean the house, and run errands. This is a 360-degree change from the single life women are used to.

There are different ways women prepare for motherhood.

However, one thing seems to be common for all mothers, especially those with toddlers and young kids – the lack of sleep and adequate rest.

With a full schedule and so many things on their plates, sometimes, they find it very hard to squeeze in some time for themselves.

To help mothers out there struggling with their sleep-wake cycles, here are a few tips that may be helpful: nHonor your “me” time.

Sure, it’s easier said than done and sometimes when mothers find themselves relaxing away from their children, they may feel guilty.

But this is a struggle worth going through if only to improve and stabilize one’s mental health. After all, you can’t take care of your family once you’re all worn out and tired.

Your “me” time may be as

simple as relaxing or breathing and stretching exercises before you go to bed or maybe a relaxing day at the spa or massage place once every other week. n Prioritize sleep hygiene.

Taking care of the people important to you also means taking care of yourself. To have a good rest, make sure that your bedroom is also conducive to sleeping. Is it cozy enough? Is it warm or cold enough? Are the sheets clean and warm? Are there no unnecessary noise? We understand that having kids can be chaotic and may lead to a very messy house but make sure your personal bedroom is sacred as much as you can. n Get help from family and friends.

There is nothing wrong with admitting that sometimes being a mother can be overwhelming and tiring.

Occasionally, it’s also good to call a trusted friend, a family member, or especially your husband who has extra time on their hands. This way, it gives you a fresher perspective and room to breathe.

Once you have taken that brief nap or rest, you may be less grumpy over your children. A wellrested mother is a happy mother.

And that may also be the secret to a happy family life.

COLOR YOUR EXPERIENCE ONCE AGAIN AS SAVOY HOTEL BORACAY REOPENS!

Tons of activities for all ages

nDon’t hesitate to take melatonin supplements.

If you’re not anymore pregnant or breastfeeding, but still getting inadequate rest because of your hyperactive toddlers, there’s nothing wrong with taking melatonin supplements.

Sleepasil is a food supplement that contains 3 mg of melatonin and relaxant natural ingredients such as valerian root and chamomile extract. Valerian root is known for its therapeutic effects that may help with insomnia problems. Chamomile, on the other hand, has been known in the field of herbal medicine for several generations now. It contains antioxidants that help reduce anxiety, easing you to fall asleep.

For mothers who need a time off and adequate rest, Sleepasil is the perfect partner because it not only dozes you off to sleep, it also gives you the relaxing sensation that all mothers need and deserve.

Sleepasil is available in Mercury Drugstore, Watsons, Rose Pharmacy, and SouthStar Drug nationwide. You can also purchase in Shopee and Lazada. SRP is P16.00 only. No prescription required.

To know more about Sleepasil, please visit www.sleepasil.com.

Savoy Hotel Boracay welcomes back guests on June 1, 2022

T

HE long wait is over and we are excited to share that Savoy Hotel Boracay is reopening this June 1, 2022.

We can’t wait to welcome you back, so here are exciting treats to color your experience once again!

Reopening Room Treat!

Plan that perfect beach day to the Boracay you know and love, and avail of our hotel room vouchers for Php 3,150 per night good for two (2) people. Amazing surprises and complimentary treats await so start booking your stays and purchase these special reopening vouchers until May 31, 2022. These are valid until December 31, 2022. To

book, visit our official website at https://booking.savoyhotelboracay.com.ph/4.31/ or avail of your vouchers at https://onlineshopping.savoyhotelboracay. com.ph/.

Reopening Food Trip!

As a special treat on our opening day, join us for an evening packed with live acoustic entertainment by the Chambery Pool Bar and sumptuous Filipino buffet selections at Savoy Café for Php 1,650 per person. Complimentary shuttle services to and from D’Mall, Station 2 is available for guests and walk ins.

Reopening Adventures!

For those looking for adventure,

Modern Filipino buffet for Php 1,650 per person

we’ve got complimentary activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. Plus, enjoy the sun and the sand with other options for leisure activities and watersports. Set-off on a bike ride to the infamous Boracay Keyhole or sunrise cruise amidst a picturesque island view.

Finally, if you are looking to simply relax away from the crowded beach stations, then this is where you want to stay.

Savoy Hotel Boracay is nestled in Boracay Newcoast, a tourist destination on its own where you can enjoy a peaceful, serene stay.

All these and more await you at Savoy Hotel Boracay… where you want to be, soon!

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TheWorld BusinessMirror

Tuesday, May 31, 2022

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

China’s Covid-19 outbreak wanes as curbs eased to boost economy

C

hinese authorities are moving to stimulate the country’s faltering economy and ease some of its strictest virus controls as the number of new local Covid-19 cases fell to the lowest level in almost three months.

A sign and barrier tape placed to prevent large groups from gathering at an outdoor park in Beijing, on May 28. Bloomberg photo

In Beijing, infections dropped to 12 on Sunday, from 21 on Saturday. Curbs on movement in several districts started to be loosened yesterday after officials said the outbreak was under control. The decline has eased concern that Beijing could have been headed for a lockdown when it was reporting several dozen cases a day earlier in the outbreak despite increasingly strict restrictions.

In Shanghai, cases fell to 67 for Sunday from 122 on Saturday. The financial hub yesterday rolled out a raft of measures to support the lockdown-hit economy, including allowing all manufacturing to restart from Wednesday.

There were 122 cases reported across the country on Sunday, the fewest since March 3. China hasn’t reported a day without infections since October because of repeated outbreaks of the highly transmis-

sible Delta and Omicron variants, despite its zero tolerance approach to the virus.

In other moves, Shanghai will accelerate approvals for property projects and the quota for car ownership this year will be increased by 40,000. A purchase tax for some passenger vehicles will be reduced and subsidies will be given to electric car buyers. Covid test requirements will be loosened for people entering public places from June 1 as the city tries to restore a sense of normalcy after a two-month lockdown of its 25 million population.

China’s dogged adherence to its Covid Zero policy at all costs— epitomized by Shanghai’s lockdown and restrictions imposed elsewhere in the country of 1.4 billion—has slowed everything f rom con su mer s pend i ng to manufacturing in the world’s second-largest economy. The harsh

curbs, which confined millions of people to their apartments or residential compounds, also sparked clashes between residents and police.

In Beijing, most public transport including buses, subways and taxis will resume in three districts including Chaoyang. Shopping centers outside of controlled areas in the city will also be allowed to reopen with capacity limits. Chaoyang is home to Beijing’s central business district, most foreign embassies and expatriates.

Workers in some Beijing districts who were required to work from home previously will be allowed to return to their workplaces, and hotels and hostels in five districts on the city’s outskirts will be permitted to reopen.

Schools and kindergartens will remain suspended and university campuses will stay closed, with students urged to go home before the summer holidays. Dining-in will still be banned at restaurants.

Meanwhile, Shanghai offered tax rebates for companies and allowed all manufacturers to resume operations from June as authorities rolled out scores of policies to revitalize an economy impacted by Covid lockdowns.

The financial hub will accelerate approvals for property projects and supply new residential developments, according to a plan issued by the Shanghai municipal government. The quota for car ownership this year will be increased by 40,000, a purchase tax for some passenger vehicles will be reduced and subsidies will be given to electric car buyers.

The measures were part of 50 measures in eight categories aimed at stabilizing the city’s economy after the current Covid outbreak hurt economic and social development. Companies in Shanghai will no longer need to be on a “whitelist” to resume production starting from June 1, Vice Mayor Wu Qing said at a briefing on Sunday.

China’s dogged adherence to its Covid Zero policy at all costs—

epitomized by Shanghai’s lockdown that began in late March and restrictions imposed elsewhere in the country of 1.4 billion—has slowed everything from consumer spending to manufacturing in the world’s second-largest economy.

Industrial output and consumer spending slid to the worst levels in April since the pandemic began in early 2020, while the confinement has sparked clashes between residents and police.

Shanghai will loosen Covid test requirements for people who enter public places from June 1 as the city tries to restore a sense of normalcy after a two-month lockdown of its 25 million population. It reported 122 new local Covid cases for Saturday, a decline from the 170 for Friday. Only one positive case was found outside government quarantine.

Other measures in Shanghai’s newly published plan include: More tax, fee cuts for companies; reducing rents for more firms Encouraging commerce firms and e-commerce platforms to issue coupons to boost consumption.

Supporting construction of infrastructure projects in railway, airport hubs, ports and energy sectors; accelerating implementation of major projects in integrated circuits and new energy vehicles.

Boosting financial support to foreign trade companies.

Helping foreign companies resume operations and supporting multinational companies to establish regional headquarters and research centers in Shanghai.

Starting more urban renovation projects and supporting local government to sell special bonds for city renovation projects.

Properly increasing construction land quota for 2022.

The new measures—in place till end-2022—together with policies issued in March, will reduce the burden for entities by 300 billion yuan ($44.8 billion) this year, Hua Yuan, head of Shanghai Municipal Development & Reform Commission, said at the briefing.

Bloomberg News

1 billion meth pills: East, SE Asia drug industry hits ominous peak

B

ANGKOK—The number of methamphetamine tablets seized in East and Southeast Asia exceeded a billion last year for the first time, highlighting the scale of illegal drug production and trafficking in the region and the challenges of fighting it, the UN said Monday.

The 1.008 billion tablets was part of a regionwide haul of almost 172 tons of methamphetamine in all forms and was seven times higher than the amount seized 10 years earlier, the UN Office on Drugs and Crime said in a report.

The drugs are largely consumed in Southeast Asia but also exported to New Zealand and Australia, Hong Kong, Korea and Japan in East Asia, and increasingly to South Asia.

“Production and trafficking of methamphetamine jumped yet again as supply became super concentrated in the Mekong [River region] and in particular Thailand, Laos and Myanmar,” Jeremy Douglas, Southeast Asia regional representative for the UN agency, told The Associated Press in an email interview.

The increased production makes the drug cheaper and more accessible, creating greater risk to people and their communities, the report said.

Methamphetamine is easy to make and has supplanted opium and its derivative heroin to become the dominant illegal drug in Southeast Asia for both use and export.

The Golden Triangle area, where the borders of Myanmar, Laos and Thailand

Thai policemen stand in front of packages of methamphetamines on display during a press conference at Narcotics Suppression Bureau in Bangkok, Thailand, on July 15, 2019. Police said they seized 459 kilograms (1,012 pounds) of crystal methamphetamine that they suspect originated from neighboring Myanmar. The number of methamphetamine tablets seized in East and Southeast Asia exceeded a billion last year for the first time, highlighting the scale of illegal drug production and trafficking in the region and the challenges of fighting it, the UN said Monday, May 30, 2022. AP meet, was historically a major production area for opium and hosted many of the labs that converted it to heroin.

Decades of political instability have made Myanmar’s frontier regions largely lawless, to be exploited by drug producers and traffickers.

Given the problem of limited governance and low attention to the issue, the UN. agency said organized crime syndicates have the means to continue to produce more meth and to sell it to a growing, young population with increased

spending power.

The political landscape also has helped traffickers.

In Myanmar, the militar y seized power from an elected government last year and is now engaged in an armed struggle against foes of military rule.

Drug production in Myanmar is often associated with armed ethnic minority groups that sometimes battle the government and each other.

“Every group denies involvement in drug production and trafficking and point

at other groups as responsible, but the drug economy is arguably the largest part of the economy in most or many parts of Shan and border areas of Myanmar and there is plenty of intel connecting groups to labs and shipments,” Douglas said.

The report also called Laos one of the countries most impacted by methamphetamine trafficked out of Myanmar. One of Asia’s biggest-ever drug busts was made in Laos last October, with police there seizing more than 55.6 million methamphetamine pills in a single raid. They also seized 65 bags of crystal methamphetamine, also known as ice, state media reported.

The UN agency said it was concerned that criminal enterprises were targeting Cambodia as a drug production site. One clandestine laboratory dismantled there last year was an industrial-scale facility set up to produce ketamine and potentially other drugs, the report said.

Ketamine is used legitimately as an anesthetic, but its non-medical use and clandestine manufacture was concerning to the UN agency.

Many nations tried to halt meth production by choking supplies of precursors, usually ephedrine and pseudoephedrine, best known for being used in decongestant medicines. But the UN agency said some methamphetamine producers have clearly learned to make these precursors from non-controlled substances that can be freely and legally traded. AP

In this photo provided by the Ukrainian Presidential Press Office on Sunday, May 29, 2022, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy walks with his staff as he visits the war-hit Kharkiv region. Zelenskyy described the situation in the east as “indescribably difficult.” The “Russian army is trying to squeeze at least some result” by concentrating its attacks there, he said in a Saturday night video address. Ukrainian Presidential Press Office via AP

Ukrainian, Russian troops battle in east as Zelenskyy visits front

By Elena Becatoros & Ricardo Mazalan The Associated Press

P

OKROVSK, Ukraine—Russian and Ukrainian troops traded blows in fierce close-quarter combat Sunday in an eastern Ukrainian city as Moscow’s soldiers, supported by intense shelling, attempted to gain a strategic foothold to conquer the region. Ukraine’s leader also made a rare frontline visit to Kharkiv, the country’s second-largest city, to assess the strength of the national defense.

In the east, Russian forces stormed Sievierodonetsk after trying unsuccessfully to encircle the strategic city, Ukrainian officials said. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described the situation there as “indescribably difficult,” with a relentless Russian artillery barrage destroying critical infrastructure and damaging 90 percent of the buildings.

“Capturing Sievierodonetsk is a principal task for the occupation force,” Zelensky said, adding that the Russians don’t care about casualties.

The city’s mayor said the fighting had knocked out power and cellphone service and forced a humanitarian relief center to shut down because of the dangers.

The deteriorating conditions raised fears that Sieverodonetsk could become the next Mariupol, a city on the Sea of Azov that spent nearly three months under Russian siege before the last Ukrainian fighters surrendered.

Sievierodonetsk, located 143 kilometers (89 miles) south of the Russian border, has emerged in recent days as the epicenter of Moscow’s quest to capture all of Ukraine’s eastern industrial Donbas region. Russia also stepped up its efforts to capture the nearby city of Lysychansk, where civilians rushed to escape persistent shelling.

The two eastern cities span the strategically important Siverskiy Donetsk River.

They are the last major areas under Ukrainian control in Luhansk province, which makes up the Donbas together with the adjacent Donetsk region.

Zelenskyy, meanwhile, visited soldiers in Kharkiv, where Ukrainian fighters pushed Russian forces back from nearby positions several weeks ago.

“I feel boundless pride in our defenders. Every day, risking their lives, they fight for Ukraine’s freedom,” Zelenskyy wrote on the Telegram messaging app after the visit.

Russia has kept up its bombardment of the northeastern city from afar, and explosions could be heard shortly after Zelenskyy’s visit. Shelling and airstrikes have destroyed more than 2,000 apartment buildings in the city since Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24, according to the regional governor, Oleh Syniehubov.

In a video address later Sunday, Zelenskyy praised Kharkiv regional officials but said he had fired the regional head of the country’s top security agency, the SBU, for his poor performance. In the wider Kharkiv region, Russian troops still held about one-third of the territory, Zelenskyy said.

After failing to seize Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, Russia is focused on occupying parts of Donbas not already controlled by pro-Moscow separatists.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov told French TF1 television Sunday that Moscow’s “unconditional priority is the liberation of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions,” adding that Russia sees them as “independent states.”

He also suggested other regions of Ukraine should be able to establish close ties with Russia.

In Luhansk, constant Russian shelling has created what provincial governor Serhiy Haidai called a “severe situation.”

“There are fatalities and wounded people,” he wrote on Telegram. On Saturday, he said, one civilian died and four were injured after a Russian shell hit a high-rise apartment building.

But some Luhansk supply and evacuation routes functioned Sunday, he said. He claimed the Russians had retreated “with losses” around a village near Sievierodonetsk but conducted airstrikes on another nearby river village.

Civilians who reached the eastern city of Pokrovsk, 130 kilometers (80 miles) south of Lysychansk, said they held out as long as they could before fleeing the Russian advance.

Yana Skakova choked back tears as she described leaving with her 18-month and 4-year-old sons while her husband stayed behind to take care of their house and animals. The family was among 18 people who lived in a basement for the past 2 1/2 months until police told them Friday it was time to evacuate.

“None of us wanted to leave our native city,” she said. “But for the sake of these small children, we decided to leave.”

Oksana, 74, who was too afraid to give her surname, was evacuated from Lysychansk by a team of foreign volunteers along with her 86-year-old husband.

“I’m going somewhere, not knowing where,” she wept. “Now I am a beggar without happiness. Now I have to ask for charity. It would be better to kill me.”

Sievierodonetsk Mayor Oleksandr Striuk said there was fighting at the city’s bus station on Saturday. Residents remaining in the city, which had a prewar population of around 100,000, risked exposure to shelling just to get water from a half-dozen wells, and there was no electricity or cellphone service. Striuk estimates that 1,500 civilians in the city have died since the war began, from Russian attacks as well as from a lack of medicine or treatment.

The Institute for the Study of War, a think tank based in Washington, questioned the Kremlin’s strategy of assembling a huge military effort to take Sieverodonetsk, saying it was proving costly for Russia and would bring few returns.

“When the battle of Sieverodonetsk ends, regardless of which side holds the city, the Russian offensive at the operational and strategic levels will likely have culminated, giving Ukraine the chance to restart its operational-level counteroffensives to push Russian forces back,” the institute said late Saturday.

In Mariupol on Sunday, an aide to its Ukrainian mayor alleged that after Russia’s forces gained complete control of the city, they piled the bodies of dead people inside a supermarket. The aide, Petro Andryushchenko, posted a photo on the Telegram messaging app of what he described as a “corpse dump” in the occupied city. It showed bodies stacked alongside closed supermarket counters.

“Here, the Russians bring the bodies of the dead, which were washed out of their graves during attempts to restore the water supply, and partially exhumed. They just dump them like garbage,” he wrote.

It was not immediately possible to verify his claim.

Regions across Ukraine were pummeled overnight by renewed Russian airstrikes.

On the ground in the eastern Donetsk region, fighters battled back and forth for control of villages and cities.

The Ukrainian army reported heavy fighting around Donetsk, the provincial capital, as well as Lyman to the north, a small city that serves as a key rail hub in the Donetsk region. Moscow claimed Saturday to have taken Lyman, but Ukrainian authorities said their fighters remained engaged in combat in parts of the city.

“The enemy is reinforcing its units,” the Ukrainian armed forces’ General Staff said. “It is trying to gain a foothold in the area.”

Mazalan reported from Kyiv. Andrea Rosa in Kharkiv, Ukraine, Yuras Karmanau in Lviv, Ukraine, and AP journalists around the world contributed.

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Tuesday, May 31, 2022

A9

China falls short on Pacific deal but finds smaller wins

By Aileen Torres-Bennett & Nick Perry

Anti-government protesters march near the president’s official residence in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on Saturday, May 28, 2022. Police fired tear gas and water canon on protesters who marched toward the president Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s barricaded residence demanding his resignation.

AP/Eranga Jayawardena

Sri Lanka’s prime minister invites protesting youth to join governance

By Krishan Francis

C

The Associated Press

OLOMBO, Sri Lanka—Sri Lanka’s prime minister said Sunday that protesting youth groups will be invited to be part of governance under political reforms he is proposing to solve the country’s political crisis triggered by an economic collapse.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said that under proposed constitutional reforms, powers of the president will be clipped and those of Parliament strengthened. In a televised statement to the nation, he said that governance will be broad-based through parliamentary committees where lawmakers, youth and experts will work together.

“The youth are calling for a change in the existing system.

They also want to know the current issues. Therefore, I propose to appoint four youth representatives to each of these 15 committees,” Wickremesinghe said.

Protesters consisting of mainly young people have camped out outside the president’s office for more than 50 days. They’re demanding the resignation of President Gotabaya R ajapa ksa, holding him and his family responsible for the countr y’s worst economic crisis. They also want an overhaul of a system of governance, saying successive administrations since independence from Britain in 1948 have misruled the country leading to economic and social crises.

Students have led nearly daily protests in capital Colombo and elsewhere as Sri Lanka tethers on the brink of bankruptcy. It has already defaulted on its foreign loans, and is battling acute shortages of essential goods like cooking gas, fuel and medicines. People have been forced to wait for hours in long lines to try to buy goods and many still go empty handed.

The country’s foreign currency reserves have dwindled to just enough to purchase two weeks of

needed imports.

Authorities announced last month that they were suspending repayment of nearly $7 billion foreign debt due this year. Sri Lanka has to pay up $25 billion through 2026. Total foreign debt of the Indian Ocean island nation is $51 billion.

According to Wickremesinghe’s proposal, one of the youth representatives will be appointed by the so-called “youth parliament” and the other three will come from protesting groups and other activist organizations. “The methodology used to chose these individuals can be decided by the youth organizations themselves,” he said.

There has been no immediate comment from youth groups to his proposal. Setting up new broadbased parliamentary committees apparently can be done under the current constitution, but broader reforms such as reducing presidential powers would need approval of the Supreme Court and a twothirds parliamentary majority.

It isn’t clear when the bill will be introduced for debate.

Violence erupted on May 9, when Rajapaksa supporters attacked peaceful protesters. Nine people including a governing party lawmaker were killed and homes of Cabinet ministers burnt down.

The unrest nearly dismantled the Rajapaksa dynasty after the president’s brother, Mahinda Rajapaksa, resigned as prime minister.

Three of the president’s siblings and a nephew had already quit their Cabinet posts.

Sri Lanka has been ruled by a powerful executive presidential system for nearly 45 years, and President Gotabaya Rajapaksa strengthened it further w ith constitutional changes as soon as he was overwhelmingly elected in 2019.

W ic k re me s i n g he h a s s a id that he will have an economic reform plan ready within two weeks to seek approval from the International Monetar y Fund for a bailout package.

War in Ukraine adds to food price hikes, hunger in Africa

By Omar Faruk & Krista Larson The Associated Press

M

OGADISHU, Somalia—It now costs Ayan Hassan Abdirahman twice as much as it did just a few months ago to buy the wheat flour she uses to make breakfast each day for her 11 children in Somalia’s capital.

Nearly all the wheat sold in Somalia comes from Ukraine and Russia, which have halted exports through the Black Sea since Moscow waged war on its neighbor on Feb. 24. The timing could not be worse: The UN has warned that an estimated 13 million people were facing severe hunger in the Horn of Africa region as a result of a persistent drought.

Abdirahman has been trying to make do

by substituting sorghum, another more readily available grain, in her flatbread. Inflation, though, means the price of the cooking oil she still needs to prepare it has skyrocketed too—a jar that once cost $16 is now selling for $45 in the markets of Mogadishu.

“The cost of living is high nowadays, making it difficult for families even to afford flour and oil,” she says.

Haji Abdi Dhiblawe, a businessman who imports wheat flour into Somalia, fears the situation will only worsen: There is also a looming shortage of shipping containers to bring food supplies in from elsewhere at the moment.

“Somalis have no place to grow wheat, and we are not even familiar with how to grow it,” he says. “Our main concern now

S

The Associated Press

UVA, Fiji—China fell short Monday on a bold plan to have 10 Pacific nations endorse a sweeping new agreement covering everything from security to fisheries as some in the region expressed deep concerns.

China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi, left, appears on stage at the Pacific Islands Foreign Ministers’ meeting with Fiji’s Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama on Monday, May 30, 2022, in Suva, Fiji. Leon Lord/Fiji Sun via AP

But there have been plenty of smaller wins for China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi as he continues an island-hopping tour of the region.

Wang was in Fiji to co-host a key meeting with the forzeign ministers from the 10 island nations.

At an unusual news conference afterward, Wang and Fijian Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama spoke for about 30 minutes and then abruptly left the stage as reporters tried to shout out questions. That left many details of what transpired at the meeting undisclosed.

But it was clear the nations hadn’t endorsed China’s plan.

“As always, we put consensus first among our countries throughout any discussion on new regional agreements,” Bainimarama said.

While there have been growing international concerns about Beijing’s military and financial ambitions in the region, many Fijians see a benefit in foreign investment wherever it comes from, so long as it uplifts the people.

Georgina Matilda said that working for Chinese infrastructure company China R ailway meant that she could put food on the table for her children.

Another Fijian, Miliane Rokolita, said China’s increased presence had benefited people.

“They bring us bigger houses.

They bring money in Fiji. They’re good people,” Rokolita said.

Documents obtained by The Associated Press indicate Wang had hoped to get the 10 nations to endorse a pre-written agreement as part of a joint communiqué after the meeting.

But Wang was unable to get the consensus he’d sought.

David Panuelo, president of the Federated States of Micronesia, told other Pacific leaders he wouldn’t endorse the plan, warning them in a letter that it would needlessly heighten geopolitical tensions and threaten regional

stability.

Panuelo called it “the single most game-changing proposed agreement in the Pacific in any of our lifetimes” and said it “threatens to bring a new Cold War era at best, and a World War at worst.”

During the news conference Monday, Wang listed some areas where the countries had been able to find agreement and said he’d keep working on others.

“After the meeting, China will release its own position paper on our own positions, propositions, and cooperation proposals with Pacific Island countries,” Wang said through an interpreter. “And going forward, we will continue to have ongoing and in-depth discussions and consultations to shape more consensus.”

While China may have fallen short on its plans for a grand multilateral agreement, it has been signing smaller bilateral agreements with the Pacific nations every day during Wang’s tour.

For instance, on Friday Wang visited Kiribati, where a key fishing ground the size of California is at stake. Kiribati’s government said afterwards the two nations had signed 10 agreements ranging from cooperating on economic goals to building a specific bridge.

Kiribati’s government did not immediately respond to a request by the AP to provide details of the agreements.

In his news conference, Wang said “some have been questioning why China has been so active in supporting Pacific Island countries.”

He said China had long championed other developing nations both in the Pacific and around the world, something it had started doing in the 1960s when it helped African nations build railways.

“My advice for those people is: Don’t be too anxious and don’t be too nervous,” Wang said.

After the news conference, China’s ambassador to Fiji Qian Bo

took a few questions from reporters, saying there had been “some concerns on specific issues” from some of the 10 nations about the proposed agreement.

“We never impose anything on other countries, let alone to our developing friends and small island countries,” Qian said.

He said China would try to release the position paper mentioned

by Wang within about a week. He said parts of the agreement were simply an offer from China to provide assistance to the nations.

A draft of the proposed multilateral agreement obtained by the AP shows that China wants to train Pacific police officers, team up on “traditional and non-traditional security” and expand law enforcement cooperation.

China also wants to jointly develop a marine plan for fisheries— which would include the Pacific’s lucrative tuna catch—increase cooperation on running the region’s internet networks, and set up cultural Confucius Institutes and classrooms. China also mentions the possibility of setting up a free trade area with the Pacific nations.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a speech Thursday that China posed an even more serious long-term threat than Russia.

“China is the only countr y with both the intent to reshape the international order—and, increasingly, the economic, diplomatic, military, and technological power to do it,” he said.

“Beijing’s vision would move us away from the universal values that have sustained so much of the world’s progress over the past 75 years.”

China hit back, saying the US was spreading disinformation.

The aim of Blinken’s speech was to “contain and suppress China’s

development and uphold US hegemony,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said.

“We strongly deplore and reject this.”

China says that in the Pacific, cooperation between Beijing and the island nations has been expanding in a development that’s welcomed by those countries.

In Fiji, the economy was hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic. The vital tourism industry shut down overnight and GDP shrank by more than 15 percent. As the world reopens, Fiji is trying to bounce back, and many are happy to see China write the checks.

China’s involvement in the region doesn’t come completely out of the blue. There has been a long history of Chinese immigration in Fiji, with many Chinese Fijians running corner stores and other businesses.

“There’s a good side and a bad side,” said Nora Nabukete, a student at the University of the South Pacific. “We get more money into the economy, being pumped in and stuff, but then there’s also a side where they bring in a lot of new things that are new to the Fijian culture.”

Nabukete worries about the seedier side that has been associated with Chinese investment in Fiji—a supposed influx of gambling, gangs and drugs.

She said that aligning with China could mean that Fiji creates tension with the United States and other Western nations, and for that reason, she hopes that Fiji doesn’t endorse Wang’s agreement.

“There’s so much more to lose in the future than what we’re experiencing now if Fiji does sign,” she said.

is what will the future hold for us when we currently run out of supplies.”

Another 18 million people are facing severe hunger in the Sahel, the part of Africa just below the Sahara Desert where farmers are enduring their worst agricultural production in more than a decade. The UN World Food Program says food shortages could worsen when the lean season arrives in late summer.

“Acute hunger is soaring to unprecedented levels and the global situation just keeps on getting worse.

Conflict, the climate crisis, Covid-19 and surging food and fuel costs have created a perfect storm—and now we’ve got the war in Ukraine piling catastrophe on top of catastrophe,” WFP Executive Director David Beasley warned earlier this month.

Even the cost of therapeutic food for malnourished children could rise 16 percent over the next six months because of the war in Ukraine and disruptions related to the pandemic, UNICEF says.

African countries imported 44 percent of their wheat from Russia and Ukraine between

2018 and 2020, according to UN figures. The African Development Bank is already reporting a 45 percent increase in wheat prices on the continent, making everything from couscous in Mauritania to the fried donuts sold in Congo more expensive for customers.

“Africa has no control over production or logistics chains and is totally at the mercy of the situation,” said Senegalese President Macky Sall, the African Union chairperson, who has said he will travel to Russia and Ukraine to discuss the price woes.

Russian President Vladimir Putin pressed the West last week to lift sanctions against Moscow over the war in Ukraine, seeking to shift the blame from Russia to the West for a growing world food crisis that has been worsened by Ukraine’s inability to ship millions of tons of grain and other agricultural products while under attack.

Putin told Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi that Moscow “is ready to make a significant contribution to overcoming the food crisis through the export of grain and fertilizer on the condition that politically

motivated restrictions imposed by the West are lifted,” according to the Kremlin.

Western officials have dismissed the Russian claims. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has noted that food, fertilizer and seeds are exempt from the sanctions imposed by the US and many others on Russia.

In Cameroon, baker Sylvester Ako says he’s seen his daily clientele drop from 300 customers a day to only 100 since bread prices jumped 40 percent because of the lack of wheat imports. He’s already let three of his seven employees go, and worries that he will have to shutter his Yaounde business entirely unless something changes.

“The price of a 50-kilogram [110-pound] bag of wheat now sells at $60—up from about $30—and the supply is not regular,” Ako said.

Along with the shortfall in wheat imports, the African Development Bank is also warning of a potential 20 percent decline in food production on the continent because farmers are having to pay 300 percent more for their imported fertilizer.

The organization says it plans to address the issues through a $1.5 billion plan that will provide farmers in Africa with certified seeds, fertilizer and other help. Reducing dependence on foreign imports is part of the strategy, but those economic transitions are likely to take years, not months.

Senegal’s president says appetites can pivot more quickly. He’s encouraging Africans to consume local grains that were once the staples of their diets.

“We must also change our eating habits,” Sall said. “We dropped millet and started importing rice from Asia. Now we only know how to eat rice and we don’t produce enough. We only know how to eat bread. We do not produce wheat.”

Perry reported from Wellington, New Zealand.

Krista Larson reported from Dakar, Senegal. Associated Press journalists in Europe and Edwin Kindzeka Moki in Yaounde, Cameroon; Babacar Dione in Dakar, Senegal; Al-Hadji Kudra Maliro in Bunia, Congo, and Francis Kokutse in Accra, Ghana, contributed to this report.

A10 Tuesday, May 31, 2022 • Editor: Angel R. Calso

Opinion BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

editorial

Helpless Americans

N

ational Public Radio is an American non-profit media organization headquartered in Washington, D.C. Last Saturday, it published an article—The US is uniquely terrible at protecting children from gun violence—saying guns are now the leading cause of death among young people in the US. NPR said: “The killing of 19 fourth-graders and two adults at Robb Elementary School has unleashed an outpouring of grief and sadness across the nation. It has also, once again, spurred many to ask why the United States has failed to make any significant changes to its gun laws following the horrendous mass shootings that now happen with regularity.”

Five years ago, less than 4,000 children and teens up to the age of 17 were killed or injured by gun violence, according to the Gun Violence Archive. By the end of last year, that number was up 43 percent to 5,692. Some 1,560 of these children and teenagers died. So far in 2022, at least 653 children and teens in the US have been killed by guns. Another 1,609 children and teens have been injured by firearms, the Gun Violence Archive said.

Warriors Coach Steve Kerr, whose team was set to play the Dallas Mavericks in game four of the NBA’s Western Conference Finals on May 24, refused to talk about basketball in his pre-game press conference. Instead, a visibly angry Kerr, whose father was killed by gunmen, condemned senators for failing to act on gun legislation, hours after a gunman killed 19 children and two teachers at an elementary school in the west Texas town of Uvalde, some 300 miles from Dallas.

“When are we going to do something?” Kerr shouted at the press conference. “I ask you, Mitch McConnell, I ask all of you senators who refuse to do anything about the violence and school shootings and supermarket shootings—I ask you, are you going to put your own desire for power ahead of the lives of our children and our elderly and our churchgoers? Because that’s what it looks like.”

Pro-gun lobbyists said the percentage of US households with at least one gun at home has not significantly changed over the past 50 years. But the number of assault-type rifles, like the one used in the Uvalde school shooting and dozens of other school shootings, has skyrocketed since legislators let a 1994 ban on such weapons expire in 2004. Since the ban was lifted, the rifles—called “modern sporting rifles” by the gun industry—have surged in popularity. The National Shooting Sports Foundation estimated there were nearly 20 million in circulation in 2020.

From The Onion, an American digital media company that publishes satirical articles: “It’s a shame, but what can we do? There really wasn’t anything that was going to keep this individual from snapping and killing a lot of people if that’s what they really wanted.” At press time, residents of the only economically advanced nation in the world where roughly two mass shootings have occurred every month for the past eight years were referring to themselves and their situation as “helpless.”

In its latest “News Alert”—Entire US Police Force Flees Country After Hearing Gunman Inside Nation—The Onion said: “Throwing their arms up into the air and screaming while frantically sprinting toward every single American border, the entire US police force reportedly fled the country Thursday after hearing that there was a gunman somewhere inside the nation. “Oh my God, run, run for your lives, someone in the United States has a gun,” said Phoenix Police Sgt. Aaron Philbank, appearing panicked as he urged more than 900,000 sworn law enforcement officers in all 50 states to drop whatever they were doing and escape via foot, car, plane, or boat into either Canada, Mexico, or the Pacific or Atlantic Ocean. “Jesus Christ. This guy could potentially be violent and, at this point, might be anywhere from California to New York. All I know is that I’m getting the hell out of here, and these fuckers are on their own. I didn’t sign up for this shit.” At press time, Philbank could not be reached for comment, as the nation’s police force was busy barricading every US border crossing and threatening to tase anyone who tried to stop the gunman.”

In the land of the free, articles that mock the police are not unusual, especially if peace officers drag their feet in responding to emergency situations, like the carnage in Texas. But beneath the scorn is a deeper concern: The US has a worsening gun violence problem, and Americans, unfortunately, remain helpless.

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BusinessMirror A broader look at today’s business

New economic team: A smooth transition Manny B. Villar

THE Entrepreneur

T

he incoming economic team of President-elect Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is a wise choice—the composition quickly allayed the concerns of some in the business sector that the new administration may deviate from the policies of the outgoing administration.

It is normal for businessmen and entrepreneurs like me to be wary of the people joining a new administration. There is that element of uncertainty and fear that business rules could change overnight. Policy continuity is critical in business planning. A drastic change in the economic blueprint of the previous administration will throw the business plan of established companies and the ordinary entrepreneurs off course.

Mr. Marcos immediately cast aside these apprehensions when he announced last week the initial list of his economic team. He named Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Benjamin Diokno as the incoming Finance chief to replace outgoing Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez

RCEP now?

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III. Mr. Diokno’s appointment is a clear signal that Mr. Marcos’s administration will continue with the policies of the current administration and build on their gains. Mr. Diokno has worked with Mr. Dominguez in steering the economy at the height of the pandemic and toward its full recovery.

The appointments quickly drew a favorable response from the business community. The Makati Business Club pledged its support to the new team, describing the incoming Cabinet members as experienced and well-known leaders that would boost the confidence of local and foreign businesses.

The economic team of outgoing President Rodrigo Duterte, led by Mr. Dominguez, did well despite the

I

F you want to be realistic about it, international trade has been a tale of misery. Shall we make it personal to the Philippines? Two words: Ferdinand Magellan. He was not in search of the healing waters of Binaliw Spring.

The brave explorers went in search of adventure that was paid for by opening trade routes and looking to exploit locations for raw materials.

Christopher Columbus made landfall in the Caribbean in 1492. During the next 100 years, between 80 and 95 percent, depending on the location, of “New World” indigenous populations were killed by smallpox, measles, influenza, chickenpox, bubonic plague, typhus, scarlet fever, pneumonia, and malaria.

This was offset by the fact that these “natives” were introduced to Christianity and that syphilis was a “New World” disease that Columbus brought back to Europe.

The Trans-Pacific Partnership was supposed to bring “free trade” to the Pacific. Trump killed the deal on the grounds that “free trade had to be fair trade” and felt the US was getting the short end. In one sense he

was correct, since the huge US market would be opened up to the smaller Asia-Pacific nations. But countries like the Philippines would have been the biggest losers since the power in the TPP agreement went to multinational companies that did not have to follow local legalities. The Philippines previously wanted to join TPP in 2016 under Aquino.

China, excluded from TPP, then set up Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, which included both China and the US. CPTPP pretty much died when the US pulled out and here again, countries like Peru objected to the enormous legal power of the multinationals.

Now we have China’s initiative, the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), with 15 Asiabased countries from South Korea/ Japan to Australia/New Zealand.

challenges posed by the Covid-19. It navigated the pandemic with resolve, caused the inoculation of majority of our population and allowed businesses to reopen. The Philippine economy bounced back with a growth of 8.3 percent in the first quarter of 2022, when the rest of Asia is locking down and struggling to contain the virus.

I remain upbeat that the economy will perform solidly in the coming quarters and succeeding years. Rising inflation is a concern but I am confident Mr. Diokno and his appointed successor, Mr. Felipe Medalla, will find the ways and the means to curb rising prices. Mr. Medalla is not a stranger to the BSP or to the economic team. He is a current member of the Monetary Board and was the director-general of the National Economic and Development Authority from 1998 to 2001 during the term of former President Joseph Estrada.

Another notable appointment is that of Mr. Arsenio Balisacan as economic planning secretary and Neda director-general. He held the same positions from May 2012 to January 2016 under the administration of the late President Benigno Aquino III. The appointment of these three to key economic posts speaks volumes about the direction that President-

elect Marcos wants to tread. All of them are seasoned economists who have taken the helms of important government agencies in various administrations.

I would also like to congratulate the other appointees in the economic team, namely Management Association of the Philippines President Alfredo Pascual as the new secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry, Manuel Bonoan as incoming secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways, Bienvenido Laguesma at the Department of Labor and Employment and Susan Ople as secretary of the new Department of Migrant Workers.

I expect the new economic team composed of Mr. Diokno, Mr. Medalla, Mr. Balisacan and the rest to keep the macro-economic fundamentals and the firm fiscal policies of the Duterte administration intact.

These fundamentals that consist of stable exchange and inflation rates, high gross international reserves, a stable banking sector and favorable external payments position, backed by robust remittances from our overseas Filipino workers, have helped us overcome the pandemic and retain our investment credit rating from foreign institutions.

May I note that President-elect See “Villar,” A11

Signed in November 2020 and effective as of January 2022, the agreement is “intended to reduce tariffs and red tape. It includes unified rules of origin throughout the bloc. It also prohibits certain tariffs.”

Note this very closely. RCEP “does not establish unified standards on labor and the environment or commit countries to open services and other vulnerable areas of their economies.” It is not as comprehensive as TPP/CPTPP, which makes it productive and not just a feel-good “progressive” piece of bureaucratic overreach.

What it does do is to “eliminate about 90 percent of the tariffs on imports between its signatories within 20 years of coming into force, and establish common rules for e-commerce, trade, and intellectual property.” It is probably a good deal for the region based on who dislikes it.

Former center-right Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull says “it’s a very old-fashioned trade deal. It’s low ambition” because RCEP “ignores labor, human rights, and environmental sustainability issues.”

In contrast, Kishore Mahbubani, Singapore’s former UN representative, said the “future of Asia will be written in four letters, RCEP.” Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong called it “a major step forward for our region” and a sign of support for free trade and economic interdependence.

Former Indonesian Minister of Trade Suparmanto said that RCEP could boost Indonesia’s exports to signatory nations by 8-11 percent and boost investment into Indonesia by 18-22 percent.

India pulled out of the deal in November 2019, citing concerns of dumping of manufactured goods from China and agricultural and dairy products from Australia/New Zealand. There are those that say the Philippines should follow India’s lead by not joining, but their arguments are hollow.

The Philippines does not produce substantial dairy products and never will due to the weather/climate. We already import these from Australia and New Zealand. Further, most of what we import from China—electrical, electronic equipment, machinery, nuclear reactors, boilers, iron and steel, and articles of iron or steel—do not compete with locally made products.

This is a long-term trade agreement designed to go in stages. We should not be left behind. President Duterte ratified the pact last September, but Senate concurrence is required for it to take effect. This should be a top priority when the Senate reconvenes.

E-mail me at mangun@gmail.com. Follow me on Twitter @mangunonmarkets. PSE stock-market information and technical analysis provided by AAA Southeast Equities Inc.

Opinion BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Tuesday, May 31, 2022 A11

Deductible costs and expenses, The coming-of-age of VP-elect Sara Duterte no requirement for allocation Manny F. Dooc

TELLTALES

Fulvio D. Dawilan

Tax Law for Business

R

ecall that in March of 2011, the Department of Finance issued Revenue Regulations 04-11 (RR 04-11), which required the allocation of costs and expenses of banks and other financial institutions. This was declared void by the Supreme Court in GR 240163 and 240168-69, December 1, 2021.

Note that banks are generally subject to the regular corporate income tax on the results of operations of the regular banking units. However, the expanded foreign currency deposit units are either exempted from tax or subject to the preferential income tax rate of 10 percent, depending on the nature and source of income.

Similarly, other financial institutions earn income that is subject to the regular corporate income tax, exempt from tax or subject to the final taxes. These tax-exempt income, income taxed at the preferential tax rate, or subject to the final taxes (often referred to as tax-paid income) are not included in the computation of income subject to the regular corporate income tax, obviously because they have different tax treatment. RR 04-11 sought to exclude the costs and expenses allocated to these incomes as deductions in the computation of the regular corporate income tax, by making allocations. In other words, costs and expenses attributable to the income of foreign currency deposit units and to the tax-exempt and tax-paid income of financial institutions were treated by the regulations as non-deductible in computing regular corporate income tax.

The tax impact of the Court decision for banks and other financial institutions is clear, as they are the subjects of RR 04-11, which was declared void. They need not resort to the allocation of their costs and expenses among their different income streams, in determining which costs and expenses are deductible.

What about taxpayers in other industries which are not the subject of RR 04-11—taxpayers other than banks and other financial institutions? Can they rely on the Court decision—that is, they need not exclude cost and expenses attributable to income exempt from tax or income subjected to final taxes?

Apparently, this has become the practice of tax examiners—to allocate costs and expenses to income subjected to final taxes or exempt from taxes, and exclude such costs and expenses as deductions in the computation of regular income taxes.

Examples of these are costs and expenses allocated to income subject to capital gains tax and to investment income subjected to final taxes, on the pretext that costs and expenses are also necessarily incurred to earn the income. Is this correct?

While the Court decision involves taxpayers in the banking and other financial sector, I believe the pronouncements in the decision and reasons mentioned in invalidating the regulations benefit taxpayers in general. Let me further explain one of them.

The Tax Code concedes to the basic rule that all ordinary and necessary expenses paid or incurred in carrying on, or which are directly attributable to the development, management, operation and/or conduct of trade or business shall be allowed as de-

Villar. . .

Continued from A10

Marcos’s choice of Cabinet members, so far, has transcended political colors, true to his campaign promise of uniting the nation. Mr. Diokno, Mr. Balisacan and Mr. Medalla at one time or another served the presidencies of the late Corazon Aquino, Joseph Estrada, Benigno Aquino III

duction. Citing this provision, the Court noted that common expenses should be deductible in full against the income subject to regular tax.

The Court further explained that as the provision of the Tax Code is worded, all expenses are deducted directly and in full without any allocation or attribution between the different income streams. There is no requirement to allocate the common expenses to income subject to final withholding taxes or exempt income. There is no distinction for common expenses among income streams, as these are, after all, common expenses. Thus, there can be no allocation of expenses between different incomes in the same trade or business unit.

Indeed, as the Court explained, the imposition of allocation rules inevitably impairs the right of the taxpayers to claim deductions. The allocation and the consequent non-deduction of portions of expenses is an imposition of additional requirement not provided in the law. To do so would be limiting, modifying and qualifying the otherwise permissible deductions allowed under the Tax Code.

The verdict is clear—an item of cost or expense cannot be excluded as deduction in the computation of the regular income tax, simply on the basis that it is allocated or attributable to income exempt from tax, income subject to final tax, or income subject to preferential tax. In the first place, the law provides no requirement for allocation. Thus, all items of expenses, as long as they comply with all the other requisites for a valid expense, should be allowed as deduction in computing the income subject to the regular corporate income tax. The practice, therefore, of some revenue examiners in excluding portions of costs and expenses as deductions is without basis.

To summarize, the Supreme Court invalidated RR 04-11, the regulations requiring the allocation of costs and expenses incurred by banks and other financial institutions, and effectively allowing only the expenses attributed to income subject to regular income tax as deductions. Banks and other financial institutions should therefore be able to deduct all ordinary costs and expenses, without resorting to allocation. I believe the same rule should apply to any taxpayer. Attributing expenses to exempt income and income subjected to final taxes and excluding them as deduction are without basis.

The author is the Managing Partner of DuBaladad and Associates Law Offices (BDB Law), a member-firm of WTS Global.

The article is for general information only and is not intended, nor should be construed as a substitute for tax, legal or financial advice on any specific matter. Applicability of this article to any actual or particular tax or legal issue should be supported therefore by a professional study or advice. If you have any comments or questions concerning the article, you may e-mail the author at fulvio.dawilan@ bdblaw.com.ph or call 8403-2001 loc 310.

and Rodrigo Duterte.

The task of putting the economy on a much firmer recovery path will not be easy and fraught with challenges. But I must say the Philippine economy will continue to be in good hands with last week’s Cabinet post announcements.

For comments, send e-mail to mbv_secretariat@vistaland.com.ph or visit www.mannyvillar. com.ph

I

’m not using the term “coming-of-age” as the transition from childhood to adulthood but the attainment of prominence and respectability of an unspoiled and unsophisticated woman from Mindanao who is now the incoming vice president of the Philippines. From a big fish in a small pond, she is now set to be a major player in the national stage where the crucial issues are acted upon and resolved. From a humble hizzoner of her native Davao City, she will now occupy the second highest position in our government— unquestionably a center of power in a highly centralized government, especially because she belongs to the ruling party.

The real full name of our vice president-elect is Sara Zimmerman Duterte-Carpio, and she was born in Davao City exactly 44 years ago today. Everybody loves to call her Inday Sara, a name that will soon reverberate in the national consciousness. At a young age, she wanted to be a doctor and she completed a degree in BS Respiratory Therapy. She did not like to be a lawyer and a politician like her grandfather Vicente, a former governor of united Davao and a cabinet member of President Ferdinand E. Marcos, and father Rodrigo who has been the political kingpin of Davao City for almost four decades now. However, her interest shifted to law and she enrolled in San Beda College of Law, President Duterte’s alma mater. Later, she moved to San Sebastian School of Law where she earned her law degree in 2005. She passed the Bar in the same year and clerked for Justice Romeo Calleja, Sr. at the Supreme Court for a while. She decided to return to her native city upon the urging of her family and political supporters. The call of public service was irresistible and Inday Sara was best equipped to inherit her father’s mantle. In 2007, she had her formal baptism in politics by running as her father’s running mate as the candidate for vice mayor. In 2010, they switched positions and for the first time Inday Sara was elected

the City Mayor of Davao. She is the first female mayor of Davao City and the youngest ever to occupy the position in the city’s history at the age of 32. She defeated a formidable candidate, Representative Prospero Nograles, a bar topnotcher, a martial law activist and an anti-Marcos lawyer and a former Speaker of the House of Representatives. Although the Nograleses and the Dutertes are blood relatives, they had been political rivals for three decades in local politics. Eventually, they buried the hatchet and reconciled in 2016 to support Duterte’s bid for the presidency. Up to now, Inday Sara is the incumbent mayor of Davao City having succeeded her father, Rodrigo R. Duterte, who was elected as our president in 2016. One month from now, she will be leaving her mayoralty post and assume the vice presidency. She’s the youngest to be elected to that post since the office of the vice president was created during our Commonwealth government in 1935. Fernando Lopez Sr. was 45 years old, one year her senior, when he was elected vice president under President Elpidio Quirino in 1949.

Since she decided to run for a national office, Inday Sara had transformed into a mature and independent public servant worthy of the people’s trust. From a lightly

regarded local politician who basked in the reflected glory of her president father, she had gained respect and, if I may add, gravitas through independent action and prudent decision. While Inday Sara was President Duterte’s favorite child, she has always been fiercely independent and has developed a mind of her own. She has a strong character and exhibits political will, which are sadly in short supply among many politicians. She is confident and makes her own decision. In the last campaign, she had openly defied the President and the wishes of PDP-Laban (Cusi wing), the dominant political party. She declined the offer to run for president under its banner with all the perks that come with it. In fact, she refused to join PDP-Laban and stuck with her own regional party. Despite all the advantages going in her favor and the overwhelming pre-election surveys that established her as the top-heavy favorite to win the presidential race, she decided to slide down to the No. 2 slot under then candidate Bongbong Marcos. This temporarily angered President Duterte who declared his candidacy for VP as the running mate of Senator Bong Go that he goaded to run for president. If Inday Sara were made of lesser stuff, she would just have accommodated her family and allies, ran for president and made everybody happy. I have little doubt that she would have won hands down. As president-elect Bongbong Marcos’s running mate, she carried a different senatorial lineup from that of Marcos although many were common candidates. For instance, she supported eventual first placer Robin Padilla who was not endorsed

by BBM and officially included in the UniTeam ticket. Inday Sara was her own woman, and she knew that she needed more time and experience to become a great president.

Right now, her governance exposure and understanding of national issues and problems that confront our nation are limited. Winning the presidency in 2022 would not be her major concern but governing would be, had she ran and won. Her intention is salutary and noble. After her

proclamation, she announced that she wishes to meet with VP Leni Robredo and Education Secretary Leonor Briones. She definitely wants to get off on the right foot by consulting with her predecessors in office on issues and programs concerning their areas and ensure smooth transition. This reflects as well the due respect she accords the two, and in particular the deep esteem she has for VP Leni, notwithstanding the acrimonious campaign. And talking of the past contest for the vice presidency, we should commend all the vice presidential contenders for conducting the campaign on a high moral ground. Unlike the presidential contest where there were some instances of negative campaigning, it was more subdued and amicable at the vice presidential level. Credit should all go to the vice presidentiables, although more of it should be given to Inday Sara since the ruling party’s candidate normally dictates the behavior of the campaign. For instance, there was hardly any abuse of power by the administration or notable electioneering by government officials to favor Inday Sara. In fact, true to his word at the start of the campaign, the President hardly went out on the hustings and did not campaign openly or actively in favor of his favored candidates, including his own daughter. There was less partisanship from the incumbent national government officials, including the military and the police, which contributed significantly to the clean and peaceful elections, which generally characterized the last political exercise. The conduct of honest and peaceful elections in 2022 is one of the enduring legacies of the Duterte administration. And Inday Sara, who was in the position to influence it, should be congratulated for keeping her hands off. As VP, if she handles her cards well and successfully delivers, Inday Sara will be adequately prepared to seek the office of the presidency in the next election. If 2022 was too early for Inday Sara, with her fully coming of age, 2028 may be her year. Happy birthday, Inday Sara!

Uvalde tells Biden to ‘do something’; he pledges ‘we will’

By Zeke Miller & Elliot Spagat The Associated Press

U

VALDE, Texas—President Joe Biden grieved with the shattered community of Uvalde on Sunday, mourning privately for three hours with anguished families of the 19 schoolchildren and two teachers killed by a gunman.

Faced with chants of “do something” as he departed a church service, Biden pledged: “We will.”

At Robb Elementary School, Biden visited a memorial of 21 white crosses—one for each of those killed— and first lady Jill Biden added a bouquet of white flowers to those already placed in front of the school sign. The couple then viewed individual altars erected in memory of each student, the first lady touching the children’s photos as they moved along the row.

After visiting the memorial, Biden attended Mass at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, where several victims’ families are members, and one of the families was in attendance.

Speaking directly to the children in the congregation, Archbishop Gustavo Garcia-Siller tried to assuage the fears of the youngsters, some appearing about the same age as the victims.

“You have seen the news, you have witnessed the tears of your parents, friends,” he said, encouraging them not to be afraid of life. “You are the best reminders to us that the lives of the little ones are important.”

As Biden departed church to meet privately with family members, a crowd of about 100 people began chanting “do something.” Biden answered, “We will,” as he got into his car. It was his only public comment during roughly seven hours in Uvalde.

Biden later tweeted that he grieves, prays and stands with the

people of Uvalde. “And we are committed to turning this pain into action,” he said.

The visit to Uvalde was Biden’s second trip in as many weeks to console a community in loss after a mass shooting. He traveled to Buffalo, New York, on May 17 to meet with victims’ families and condemn white supremacy after a shooter espousing the racist “replacement theory” killed 10 Black people at a supermarket.

Both shootings and their aftermath put a fresh spotlight on the nation’s entrenched divisions and its inability to forge consensus on actions to reduce gun violence.

“Evil came to that elementary school classroom in Texas, to that grocery store in New York, to far too many places where innocents have died,” Biden said Saturday in a commencement address at the University of Delaware. “We have to stand stronger. We must stand stronger. We cannot outlaw tragedy, I know, but we can make America safer.”

Biden also met with first responders before the trip back to his home in Delaware. It was not clear if the group included officers who were involved in the immediate response to the shooting.

Biden visited amid mounting scrutiny of the police response. Officials revealed Friday that students and teachers repeatedly begged 911 operators for help as a police commander told more than a dozen officers to wait in a hallway. Officials said the commander believed the suspect was barricaded inside an adjoining classroom and that there was no longer an active attack.

The revelation caused more grief and raised new questions about whether lives were lost because officers did not act faster to stop the gunman, who was ultimately killed

by Border Patrol tactical officers.

The Justice Department announced Sunday that it will review the law enforcement response and make its findings public.

“It’s easy to point fingers right now,” said Ronnie Garza, an Uvalde County commissioner, on CBS’ “Face the Nation,” before adding, “Our community needs to focus on healing right now.”

Mckinzie Hinojosa, whose cousin Eliahana Torres was killed Tuesday, said she respected Biden’s decision to mourn with the people of Uvalde.

“It’s more than mourning,” she said. “We want change. We want action. It continues to be something that happens over and over and over.

A mass shooting happens. It’s on the news. People cry. Then it’s gone.

Nobody cares. And then it happens again. And again.”

“If there’s anything if I could tell Joe Biden, as it is, just to respect our community while he’s here, and I’m sure he will,” she added. “But we need change. We need to do something about it.”

Authorities have said the shooter legally purchased two guns not long before the school attack: an AR-style rifle on May 17 and a second rifle on May 20. He had just turned 18, permitting him to buy the weapons under federal law.

Hours after the shooting, Biden delivered an impassioned plea for additional gun control legislation, asking: “When in God’s name are we going to stand up to the gun lobby?

Why are we willing to live with this carnage? Why do we keep letting this happen?”

Over the years, Biden has been intimately involved in the gun control movement’s most notable successes, such as the 1994 assault weapons ban, which expired in 2004, and its most troubling disappointments, including the failure to pass new

legislation after the 2012 massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut.

As president, Biden has tried to address gun violence through executive orders. He faces few new options now, but executive action might be the best the president can do, given Washington’s sharp divisions on gun control legislation.

In Congress, a bipartisan group of senators talked over the weekend to see if they could reach even a modest compromise on gun safety legislation after a decade of mostly failed efforts.

Encouraging state “red flag” laws to keep guns away from those with mental health issues, and addressing school security and mental health resources were on the table, said Sen. Chris Murphy, who is leading the effort.

While there is nowhere near enough support from Republicans in Congress for broader gun safety proposals popular with the public, including a new assault weapons ban or universal background checks on gun purchases, Murphy, D-Conn., told ABC’s “This Week” that these other ideas are “not insignificant.”

The group will meet again this coming week under a 10-day deadline to strike a deal.

“There are more Republicans interested in talking about finding a path forward this time than I have ever seen since Sandy Hook,” said Murphy who represented the Newtown area as a congressman at the time of the Sandy Hook shooting.

“And while, in the end, I may end up being heartbroken, I am at the table in a more significant way right now with Republicans and Democrats than ever before.” AP Congressional Cor-

respondent Lisa Mascaro and Associated Press writer Darlene Superville in Washington and AP video journalist Robert Bumsted in Uvalde, Texas, contributed to this report.

A12 Tuesday, May 31, 2022

SARA’S BFF, SPOKESPERSON APPOINTED TOURISM CHIEF

By Ma. Stella F. Arnaldo

@akosistellaBM Special to the BusinessMirror

L

ILOAN City Mayor Christina G. Frasco, a close friend and current spokesperson of presumptive Vice President Sara Z. Duterte, will be the incoming Secretary of Tourism. The appointment was announced on Monday by Trixie Cruz-Angeles, press secretary of the President-elect Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. Frasco takes over the helm of the Department of Tourism (DOT) with a significantly reduced budget, with promotions funds cut by P1 billion this year.

Sources from the tourism sector in Cebu described Frasco as “a little Gwen,” which means she will likely be “tourism oriented” like her mother.

She inherits a severely struggling tourism industry which saw its earnings plunge to $41 billion in 2021, a 130-percent increase from the 2020 level, but still 81-percent off the pre-pandemic earnings of $93 billion in 2019, according to a study by the World Travel and Tourism Council.

In 2019, the tourism sector contributed 12.8 percent to the gross domestic product, with arrivals at an all-time high of 8.26 million. This year, private sector estimates arrivals to reach 1-1.2 million.

Incumbent Tour ism Secret a r y Ber nadet te Romu lo Puyat, largely credited with having reopened the Philippines to leisure tourists amid the pandemic, welcomed Frasco’s appointment “with high hopes that the momentum that we have generated the past few months toward the revival, recovery, and resil-

iency of the tourism industry will be carried over to the new administration.”

A transition team led by Romulo’s Chief of Staff and Undersecretary for Legal Affairs Edwin R. Enrile will welcome and brief the new Secretary and her team for a smooth turnover. Among those that will be turned over is the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2022 to 2028, which has yet to be finalized.

In a news statement, Romulo Puyat said, “We will also be turning over the reformulated Tourism Response and Recover y Plan, which ser ved as the department’s road map to the tourism sector’s full recover y from the devastating effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.”

She added: “I will bow out of the department secure in the knowledge that the industry is back on its feet: borders have reopened and the livelihood of those dependent on tourism have gradually been restored.

The new tourism chief can bank on the remarkable gains of the Duterte Administration that has piloted sustainable and regenerative tourism practices, not only on Boracay Island, but also in many tourist destinations across the country.”

Frasco, a daughter of Cebu Gov. Gwen Garcia, is a lawyer by profession and once worked with one of the Philippines’s leading law firms Romulo Mabanta Buenaventura Sayoc and Delos Angeles. She graduated in 2006 with a law degree from the Ateneo de Manila University, and was a law professor at the University of San Jose Recoletos and University of San Carlos.

She is married to Rep. Vincent Franco Frasco, with whom she has four children.

Incoming DTI chief eyeing hi-tech industry investments

T

By Andrea E. San Juan

RADE Secretary-designate Alfredo E. Pascual said he will bring in more foreign direct investments (FDI), particularly from hi-tech industries, to support economic growth and create jobs in the Philippines.

In a televised interview on Monday, Pascual said one of his priorities as Trade chief would be to bring in more foreign direct investments, given that the Philippines needs the capital to support economic growth and bolster job creation in the country.

The incoming trade chief said he is specifically eyeing investors in hi-tech industries. In fact, Pascual said he will meet with a business group regarding this matter on Friday.

“We will try to give priority to investors in hi-tech industries. For example, there is the growing need for data centers in various places

outside the US, for example; and the Philippines -- since we are connected by fiber optic cables to important countries -- then we could be a logical location,” explained Pascual.

“In fact, on Friday, I’ll be meeting with a business group that’s exactly doing that type of investment,” he added.

On April 18, incumbent Trade secretary Ramon Lopez said he is pursuing investors to build data centers in the Philippines. He met with Black and Veatch (B&V)’s executive in April.

B&V is among the top 10 employee-owned firms in the United

States, with experience in installing a network of electric vehicles (EV) charging stations. It is also among the top data center developers in the world and a leader in climatefriendly data centers.

In a meeting with Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez in April, B&V Executive Director Martin Travers took note of the Philippine policies on EVs, renewable energy, and data centers which align with the priorities and strategic direction of the US firm.

Lopez said last month: “Building more data centers supports our strategy to build the country’s digital infrastructure needed for the hyperscalers in this age of growing e-commerce and internet and social media use.”

On the part of the incoming trade chief, his “moonshot” is to “tech up” the Philippine industry.

“One of my priorities is to promote digital transformation of [Department of Trade and Industry] DTI and all our functionaries and as well as the [micro,small and medium enterprises] MSMEs and other enterprises in the country,” said Pascual.

Government agencies like DTI that do both the regulation and development work will witness more

efficient regulation and more effective development work, according to Pascual.

The incoming trade chief, who graduated with a degree in Chemistry, said that he will manifest his appreciation for Science as he heads the Trade and Industry department. Pascual vowed to promote Science, Technology and Innovation as his basis for the country’s industrialization.

“There is this Pagtanaw 2050 that was developed by the National Academy of Science and Technology and it outlines, practically provides us a roadmap on applying science, technology and innovation to support the country’s development,” Pascual said.

The incoming trade chief also linked digitalization with consumer protection, emphasizing that “with digitalization, we can provide advanced information on suggested retail prices of practically any of the commodities being demanded on the local market.”

He said the way to approach consumer protection is to provide consumers with information to serve as the basis for their decisions so that there will be no retailer or seller who will take advantage of their lack of knowledge.

With Pagcor, PCSO fund support, PhilHealth sets package upgrades in ’23

By Bernadette D. Nicolas @BNicolasBM

S

TATE-RUN Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) is set to improve its benefit packages next year after the infusion of nearly P35 billion in funds from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) and the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO).

PhilHealth, Department of Finance, Department of Health, Pagcor and PCSO signed on Monday the joint circular that will operationalize the allocations for Universal Health Care (UHC).

In a virtual press conference on Monday, PhilHealth Spokesperson Shirley Domingo said the P34.99 billion in funds that the state health insurer will be receiving was accumulated from 2019 to 2021.

In a separate statement, PhilHealth said the funding to be used for the expansion of PhilHealth benefit packages shall be released to the agency through General Appropriations Act starting in 2023.

Among the benefits to be improved next year are select medical and surgical procedures, expansion of case rates for hemodialysis up to 156 sessions; enhancement of Z benefit packages for selected orthopedic implants, post-kidney transplant, breast cancer, prostate cancer, cervical cancer, open heart surgery for children and physical medicine and rehabilitation.

During the ceremony, PhilHealth President and CEO Atty.

Dante Gierran said the state health insurer will be “more reinforced to achieve the goals of UHC, particularly the improvement of benefit packages” following the signing of the joint circular.

“Studies will be conducted, innovations will be pursued and prudence will be observed as we implement our 3-year benefit development plan,” Gierran said.

“This infusion of funds from Pagcor and PCSO, for which we are very much thankful, will definitely help us achieve Universal Health Care,” he added.

Under Republic Act No. 11223 or the UHC law, 50 percent of the national government share from Pagcor’s income and 40 percent of PCSO’s Charity Fund, net of Documentary Stamp Tax payments and mandatory contributions, shall be transferred to PhilHealth for the improvement of its benefit packages that will cater to its members here and abroad.

Aside from Gierran, also at the signing ceremony were Pagcor Chairperson Andrea Domingo, PCSO Chairperson Anselmo Simeon P. Pinili, Undersecretary Mario Villaverde on behalf of Health Secretary Francisco T. Duque III and OIC-Deputy Treasurer and PhilHealth board member Eduardo Anthony Mariño III, who attended on behalf of Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III.

TEACHERS trooped to the Senate Monday morning to press for the exemption from income tax of the honoraria for those who served in the May 9 elections. Government earlier slapped a 20-percent tax on such payments, over the objection of poll workers, mostly teachers, who were backed by the Department of Education and Comelec.

The Senate passed the tax-exempt bill on third and final reading on Monday. Story on page A2. NONIE REYES

House endorses bill on archipelagic sea lanes

T

O prevent arbitrary international passage in the Philippine archipelago, the House of Representatives on Monday endorsed for Senate approval the bill establishing the archipelagic sea lanes (ASLs) in Philippine archipelagic waters.

This, after lawmakers voting 186 affirmative and 0 negative, passed on third and final reading House Bill 10814 or the “Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act.” The bill provides the coordinates designating the sea lanes and air routes suitable for the continuous and expeditious passage of foreign ships and aircraft through or over its archipelagic waters and the adjacent territorial sea.

It also prescribes the rights and obligations of foreign ships and aircraft exercising the right of archipelagic sea lanes passage through the established Philippine ASLs, and mandates the President to issue rules and regulations on the management and security of the ASLs and adjacent archipelagic waters.

The bill also penalizes noncompliance with the provisions of this proposed act, and with existing fisheries, environmental, customs, fiscal, immigration, sanitary and

other pertinent laws.

The measure said the person or legal body responsible for the operation or cargo of foreign commercial ships or aircraft or foreign government ships or aircraft operated for commercial purposes shall be liable for any loss or damage suffered by the Philippines or any third party as a result of noncompliance with any of the provisions of this Act while exercising the right of archipelagic sea lanes passage.

It added the flag State shall bear international responsibility for any loss or damage suffered by the Philippines or any third party as a result of noncompliance with any of the provisions of this proposed act by a foreign warship or aircraft or other government ship operated for noncommercial purposes, while exercising the right of archipelagic sea lanes passage.

Under the bill, noncompliance by foreign civilian ships and aircraft with the pertinent provisions of this proposal -- which constitutes a violation of existing fisheries, environmental, customs, fiscal, immigration, sanitary and other pertinent laws -- shall be punishable by the provisions of the measure.

If the noncompliance does not constitute a violation of existing laws, the bill said the same shall be punishable by imprisonment of six months and one day to two years and two months, or a fine of $1.2 million or its equivalent in Philippine currency, or both, such imprisonment and fine at the discretion of the court.

The penalty shall be imposed upon the master of the vessel or the captain of the aircraft or the owner or operator of the vessel or aircraft, as the case may be. If the owner or operator is a corporation, partnership or any other juridical person, the penalty shall be imposed upon the president or head.

The provisions of this proposal shall not diminish the rights of foreign ships to exercise the right of innocent passage in the archipelagic waters outside of the archipelagic sea lanes.

The bill said all rules and regulations relating to the management and security of the archipelagic sea lanes and adjacent archipelagic waters shall be promulgated by the President, with help from the relevant national agencies, through an appropriate executive issuance.

Such issuances shall include the

protective measures stipulated in international agreements, conventions, and regulations such as those established by the International Maritime Organization, as well as national measures enacted in accordance with existing laws and regulations, the measure added.

The bill said foreign ships and aircraft may exercise the right of archipelagic sea lanes passage in accordance with the provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (Unclos) in order to navigate or f ly from one part of the high seas or an EEZ to another part of the high seas or an EEZ through or over the Philippine archipelagic waters and its adjacent territorial sea.

It said such sea lanes shall be defined by a series of continuous axis lines from the entry points of passage routes to the exit points The exercise of the right of archipelagic sea lanes passage shall be through a sea lane, or through the air route above a sea lane, which has been determined and designated to be an archipelagic sea lane that may be used for exercising the right of archipelagic sea lanes passage under this proposal. Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz

BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

No.

AMAZON OPERATION SERVICES PHILIPPINES, INC. B21 Three E-com Moa Complex, Harbour Drive Cor. Bay Shore, Brgy. 076, Pasay City PARK, YOONSOO HR Services Administrator - Screening Services Korean 1.

Brief Job Description: Administer the initiation and adjudication of Medical/Background checks and provide additional support. Provide ongoing support to local HR teams and HR services colleagues by improving the overall program, self-service training tools, and monitoring necessary policy and process updates as the program grows.

NGUYEN THI TUYET MAI Seller Support Associate

2.

Brief Job Description: Communicates effectively via live video call with our customer base – third party sellers who want to sell on amazon in its various marketplaces; reviews the seller’s identity details (information & documents) over a live video call; verifies ownership of the documents submitted by sellers; assesses legitimacy of documents by reviewing online copy of documents

LONG, JIANHUI Chinese It Support Specialist

Basic Qualification: Excellent written and verbal communication skills in both English and Korean required. Customer service experience required (4+ years).

14.

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

15.

Basic Qualification: Good customer service skills experience. Ability to work independently, analyze problem logically and make complex decisions. Exceptionally strong customer handling and conflict resolution skills. Ability to maintain high level of confidentiality and data security standards.

Brief Job Description: Build sustainable relationship of trust through open and interactive communication mandarin speaking.

16.

17.

4.

Brief Job Description: Assemble and prepare food ensuring the observance of safe in according to the food and safety standards POLIMERA, RANGANATHA REDDY Chef-Indian Cuisine

18.

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

19.

5.

Brief Job Description: Prepare Indian Food in the restaurant and cook traditional Indian dishes

HA NGOC DAT Vietnamese Customer Service Representative 6.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries PHUNG THI MY DUYEN Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

7.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries

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

ASTRO AIR INTERNATIONAL, INC. ( PAN PACIFIC AIRLINES ) Unit 1401 & 1411 Aseana 3 Bldg., Macapagal Cor. Aseana Ave. Aseana City, Baclaran, City Of Parañaque

8.

KIM, HYOUNWOO Limited First Officer - A320 Brief Job Description: Pilot flight crew

Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree

9.

Brief Job Description: Conduct and analyze market research

21.

22.

Brief Job Description: Supporting Business and Project Teams during all phases of project operation and execution, incl. tendering, kick-off and evaluation.

Brief Job Description: Shall answer incoming phone calls from Chinese clients and troubleshoot customer technical problems with computer software and hardware.

ZHANG, WENYONG Chinese It Support Specialist

23.

Brief Job Description: Shall answer incoming phone calls from Chinese clients and troubleshoot customer technical problems with computer software and hardware.

24.

Brief Job Description: Calculate And Manage All Cost Related Aspects In Construction Projects

Basic Qualification: Must be native Malaysian/ Taiwanese/ Korean/ Thai/ Japanese/ Chinese/ Indonesian/ Vietnamese.

Fluent in English and respective native language. With at least a year experience in similar field.

25.

26.

HE, JIAXIN Mandarin Speaking Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Customer Service TANG, GUOTIAN Mandarin Speaking Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Customer Service

11.

Brief Job Description: Shall answer incoming phone calls from Chinese clients and troubleshoot customer technical problems with computer software and hardware.

JI, HAIHUI Chinese It Support Specialist

12.

Brief Job Description: Shall answer incoming phone calls from Chinese clients and troubleshoot customer technical problems with computer software and hardware.

LI, LINZHE Chinese It Support Specialist

13.

Brief Job Description: Shall answer incoming phone calls from Chinese clients and troubleshoot customer technical problems with computer software and hardware.

Basic Qualification: Must be fluent in Chinese language (writing and speaking).

No.

SONG, YANTAO Chinese Speaking Admin Associate 30.

Brief Job Description: Assist/help customers, give customers information about product and services.

Basic Qualification: Must be fluent in Chinese language (writing and speaking).

WANG, JINGJING Chinese Speaking Admin Associate

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

31.

Basic Qualification: Must be fluent in Chinese language (writing and speaking).

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Must be fluent in Chinese language (writing and speaking).

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Must be fluent in Chinese language (writing and speaking).

32.

KHALILI, PAYAM Marketing And Sales Agent 33.

34.

Basic Qualification: Must be fluent in Chinese language (writing and speaking).

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

Basic Qualification: Handling inquiries phone calls Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin (verbal and written)

27.

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

DUNFENG MANAGEMENT INC. 17th Floor Units C & D, Marco Polo Ortigas Manila, San Antonio, City Of Pasig

Brief Job Description: Process Online Booking

Basic Qualification: Must be fluent in Chinese language (writing and speaking).

LUO, XUAN Marketing Staff Mandarin Speaking 28.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Must be fluent in Chinese language (writing and speaking).

35.

36.

37.

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

38.

39.

BAI, PENGFEI Chinese Speaking Admin Associate 29.

Brief Job Description: Assist/help customers, give customers information about product and services

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

Brief Job Description: Responsible in conducting accurate individual verification of the details provided by the candidate with the respective source on a timely manner within the agreed service level agreement

HOANG THI ANH Call Center Agent Brief Job Description: Customer service.

LI, BINGCHEN Call Center Agent Brief Job Description: Customer service.

NGUYEN THI HONG NHUNG Call Center Agent Brief Job Description: Customer service.

NGUYEN VAN OANH Call Center Agent Brief Job Description: Customer service.

GUO, XING Assistant Vice President - Business Planning Head 40.

Basic Qualification: Analyze the productivity of the Marketing plans and projects, recommend optimization to Senior Management.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months customer service experience/good in oral communication and written

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months customer service experience/good in oral communication and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Can Contributes Information, Ideas, and Research to Help Develop Marketing Strategies; Can Help to Detail, Design, and Implement Marketing Plans for Each Product or Service Being Offered.

Basic Qualification: Can work harmoniously with executive team such as the marketing director or managing director to set the marketing strategy for the business. Must be willing to hire and manage junior marketing team that includes PR and creative staff. Able to speak and communicate using mandarin is an advantage

Basic Qualification: Graduate of Accompliance at Least 2 Years in College Preferably Psychology, Business Management, Other Related Courses, 1 Working Exp., Exemplary Communication Skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

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

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

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

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

FUJIFILM BUSINESS INNOVATION PHILIPPINES CORP. 25th Flr. Sm Aura Tower, 26th St. Cor. Mckinley Parkway, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

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

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

FLYING DRAGON NETWORK PHILIPPINES INC. Ri Rance Ii Bldg., Block 2 Lot 3 Aseana City, Tambo, City Of Parañaque

Brief Job Description: Maximize the company’s overall potential thru effective business planning of the organization in relation to overall company’s profitability.

Basic Qualification: A Graduate of Business 4 Years Course or Equivalent Experience in Benchmarking, Has a High Business Acumen and Planning Skills Including Industry and Commercial, Has the Planning and Strategic Capability and Capacity in Relation to Business Operation Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

GENPACT SERVICES LLC 5f Genpact Bldg., Cyberzone Northgate, Alabang, City Of Muntinlupa

DYNAMIC STUDIO TECHNOLOGY INC. 5th To 10th/f Platinum Tower Building, Aseana Ave. Cor. Fuentes Street, Baclaran, City Of Parañaque

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Must be fluent in Chinese language (writing and speaking).

Brief Job Description: Monitor, review and report on all Marketing activity result.

Brief Job Description: Looking after the budget of the marketing department and making sure the budget spend is delivering a return on investment. Managing the design and production of promotional materials, such as websites and brochures.

LAI, XIAOLAN Operations Associate

Basic Qualification: Handling inquiries phone calls Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: With Atleast 6 Months Customer Service Experience/Good in Oral Communication and Written

FIRST ADVANTAGE PHILIPPINES, INC. 7-8th Floor Kingston Tower, Acacia Avenue, Madrigal Business Park, Alabang, City Of Muntinlupa

Basic Qualification: Must be fluent in Chinese language (writing and speaking).

Basic Qualification: Fluent In Mandarin And English Both Verbal And Written

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

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

Basic Qualification: Must be fluent in Chinese language (writing and speaking).

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

Brief Job Description: Researches and develops various marketing strategies for products and services and implements marketing plans and works to meet sales quotas

KHALILI, MANSOUR Senior Marketing Specialist

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

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

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months customer service experience/good in oral communication and written.

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

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

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

Brief Job Description: Assist/help customers, give customers information about product and services

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

EASTERN GOLD CORPORATION 503, Nueva St., Barangay 289, Binondo, City Of Manila

Basic Qualification: Must be fluent in Chinese language (writing and speaking)

Basic Qualification: Must be fluent in Chinese language (writing and speaking).

Brief Job Description: Assist/Help customers, give customers information about product and services

JIANG, ZHEHUA Chinese Speaking Business Development Associate

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

Basic Qualification: Must have work experience on international Dredging, land reclamation or construction projects.

TAN PEI CHIN Customer Service Associate

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

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

DOTW SHARED SERVICES INC. Unit 403, 404, 4f, Shaw Center Mall, Shaw Blvd., Addition Hills, City Of Mandaluyong

CAPSLOCK INC. 7th & 8th Flr. Y Tower Bldg., Coral Way Drive Cor. Macapagal Ave., Barangay 76, Pasay City HUANG, YOUZHI Chinese It Support Specialist

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

CHINA CONSTRUCTION FRONT GENERAL DEVT. CORPORATION Unit 3001, Atlanta Center, 31 Annapolis St., Greenhills, City Of San Juan WANG, HAO Quantity Surveyor Manager

A13

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

DAXIFA CORPORATION Mpire Center 93 West Avenue, Project 7, 1, Bungad, Quezon City

BOSKALIS PHILIPPINES INC. Unit 3701, 3801 The Orient Square, F. Ortigas Jr. Road, Ortigas Center, San Antonio, City Of Pasig

10.

Brief Job Description: Shall answer incoming phone calls from Chinese clients and troubleshoot customer technical problems with computer software and hardware.

ZHANG, CHAOQUN Chinese It Support Specialist

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

POSTMA, JAN SIKKO Operations Superintendent

Brief Job Description: Shall answer incoming phone calls from Chinese clients and troubleshoot customer technical problems with computer software and hardware.

XU, ZIHENG Chinese It Support Specialist

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

AVANTICE CORPORATION 19/f Pbcom Tower, Ayala Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati

EDY Product Marketing Executive

20.

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

Brief Job Description: Shall answer incoming phone calls from Chinese clients and troubleshoot customer technical problems with computer software and hardware.

XU, CHAO Chinese It Support Specialist

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

ANOC99 CORPORATION 5/f To 10/f Ayala Malls Manila Bay Building D., Macapagal Blvd. Cor. Aseana Street, Tambo, City Of Parañaque

Brief Job Description: Shall answer incoming phone calls from Chinese clients and troubleshoot customer technical problems with computer software and hardware.

WANG, LIANG Chinese It Support Specialist

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Experience in preparing traditional Indian food

Brief Job Description: Shall answer incoming phone calls from Chinese clients and troubleshoot customer technical problems with computer software and hardware.

WANG, JIANGYANG Chinese It Support Specialist

Basic Qualification: Knows how to recommend potential products or services to management by collecting customer information and analyzing customer needs.

Basic Qualification: At least two years experience in working as Chef in an Indian Restaurant

Brief Job Description: Shall answer incoming phone calls from Chinese clients and troubleshoot customer technical problems with computer software and hardware.

SONG, XIAOYU Chinese It Support Specialist

ANNAPOORNA PHILIPPINES INC. Basement 1 Unit Retail 4, Pioneer Robinsons, Barangka Ilaya, City Of Mandaluyong RAMESH, VEERANATHAN Chef

Brief Job Description: Shall answer incoming phone calls from Chinese clients and troubleshoot customer technical problems with computer software and hardware.

QIN, SHIXIN Chinese It Support Specialist

AMUSETECH BUSINESS OUTSOURCING, OPC 2/f Rivergreen Residences, 2217 Pedro Gil St., Barangay 880, Santa Ana, City Of Manila

3.

Brief Job Description: Shall answer incoming phone calls from Chinese clients and troubleshoot customer technical problems with computer software and hardware.

OUYANG, JING Chinese It Support Specialist

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

WISNO Customer Service Representative Mandarin Speaking

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Tuesday, May 31, 2022

PATHAK, SHIV KUMAR Assistant Vice President- Operations 41.

Brief Job Description: Own the overall operations (process management, p&l management client management, people management, performance management strategic initiatives

Basic Qualification: Significant experience in the confirmed tenure in mid/senior management role in BPO/ contact canter industry and should be a subject matter expert in various aspects like banking insurance consumer goods Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

BusinessMirror

A14 A6 Tuesday, May 31, 2022

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION JOSHI, VIPIN Vice President- Lean Digital Transformation

42.

Brief Job Description: Defining and executing key process perfection & digital transformation project roadmaps, interact with clients for understanding key business priorities and opportunity identification.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Excellent problem solving & analytical bent of demeanor. Domain SME preferred - contact centre operations.

No.

55.

Salary Range: Php 500,000 and above

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service questions suggesting information about other products and services.

HELLMANN SHARED SERVICE CENTER, INC. Flr. No.6f, Five E-com Bldg., Pacific Drive St., Moa Complex Subd. Zone 10, Barangay 76, Pasay City D‎ÄSCHER, MARCO President And Managing Director 43.

Brief Job Description: Build the shared service organization to provide services to Hellmann’s companies, affiliates, and subsidiaries

Basic Qualification: Previous work experience as managing Director or other similar managerial position

LIN, HUI-QI Chinese Customer Service Representative 56.

Salary Range: Php 500,000 and above

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service questions; suggesting information about other products and service.

HINDUJA GLOBAL SOLUTIONS LIMITED 7th Floor Aeon Prime Centre, North Bridgeway Avenue Corner Alabang- Zapote Road, Northgate Cyberzone, Filinvest Corporate City, Alabang, City Of Muntinlupa VANVARANGKUN, PUNCHARAS Thai Speaking Associate 44.

Brief Job Description: Attends to customers’ inquiries and complaints regarding Philips products via phone calls and emails. Responds to consumer inquiries regarding Philips products.

Basic Qualification: At least high school graduate. Strictly follow procedures and requirements outlined in addressing customer issues / requests.

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

INFOVINE INC. 9/f Y Tower, Moa Complex, Coral Way Drive Cor. Macapagal, Barangay 76, Pasay City XIAO, HAILONG Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 45.

Brief Job Description: Assist/Help customers, give customers information about product and services

Basic Qualification: With Atleast 6 Months Customer Service Experience/Good in Oral Communication and Written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

JAN DE NUL (PHILS.), INC. 302 3rd/f Aseana Power Station Macapagal Blvd., Cor. Bradco Ave. Aseana City, Tambo, City Of Parañaque BOONE, STEF URBAIN L. Operational Superintendent Dredging Works 46.

Brief Job Description: General organization of the assigned part of the dredging works according to the predefined schedule, budget and used methods while observing the quality, safety and environmental standards with a minimum risk for personnel and equipment.

DE WAELE, PATRICK ANDRE Operations Superintendent 47.

Brief Job Description: Acts as the company’s representative to support management and operations.

TIMMERMANS, CHRISTOPHE GEORGES A. Senior Project Manager 48.

Brief Job Description: Organizing and supervising the execution of the works in all aspects such as financial, operations, contractual and be the representative of the company at the construction site.

Basic Qualification: Minimum 2 years of working experience on international dredging projects. Fluent in English and additional points for Dutch and French.

UNG VAN QUY Vietnamese Customer Service Representative 57.

DI, SHUAI Marketing Officer (mandarin Speaking) 58.

49.

Brief Job Description: In charge of the watch in the workshop for heavy equipment; responsible for the organization and monitoring of the maintenance, overhaul and repair works on the heavy equipment as delegated by the technical superintendent.

FRANCO, SANDER Soil Improvement Works Specialist 50.

Brief Job Description: Define the best applicable soil improvement techniques, based on soil information and design requirement.

GRYMONPREZ, JENS GASTON J. Technical Superintendent 51.

Brief Job Description: Review of reports, repairs list and application resources to gain insight into the performed works and the works to be carried out, reporting of problems and requesting new parts.

GUIMARAES, MABEL LUCY Technical Superintendent 52.

Brief Job Description: Review of reports, repairs list and application resources to gain insight into the performed works and the works to be carried out, reporting of problems and requesting new parts.

Basic Qualification: Minimum 10 years of working experience on international dredging projects; fluent in English and additional points for Dutch and French.

59.

Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999 Basic Qualification: Minimum 2 years of working experience on international dredging projects. Fluent in English and additional points for Dutch and French.

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

60.

61.

53.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service questions; suggesting information about other products and service.

HE, YA-HUI Chinese Customer Service Representative 54.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service questions; suggesting information about other products and service.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing English and their respective native language for the position applied for; fluent in Chinese mandarin is an advantage.

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

Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing in English and their respective native language for the position applied for. Fluent to Chinese Mandarin is an advantage.

Brief Job Description: Provide clients the best possible solutions to meet their long term goals

Brief Job Description: Research industries, markets, demographics, trends, sales results, and other data related to the Chinese/Vietnamese client’s services; works as an independent consultant or as part of consultancy firm to provide sales expertise to Chinese/ Vietnamese clients; create detailed reports with research findings and analysis to with sales strategies.

70.

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

Basic Qualification: Experience and education

71.

72.

73.

74.

75.

76.

77.

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

Basic Qualification: College graduate: preferably 6 months -1year as sales consultant.

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

Brief Job Description: Research industries, markets, demographics, trends, sales results, and other data related to the Chinese/Vietnamese client’s services; works as an independent consultant or as part of consultancy firm to provide sales expertise to Chinese/ Vietnamese clients; create detailed reports with research findings and analysis to with sales strategies.

Basic Qualification: College graduate: preferably 6 months -1year as sales consultant.

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

62.

Brief Job Description: Research industries, markets, demographics, trends, sales results, and other data related to the Chinese/Vietnamese client’s services; works as an independent consultant or as part of consultancy firm to provide sales expertise to Chinese/ Vietnamese clients; create detailed reports with research findings and analysis to with sales strategies.

Basic Qualification: College graduate: preferably 6 months -1year as sales consultant.

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

78.

79.

80.

81.

82.

83.

63.

Brief Job Description: Research industries, markets, demographics, trends, sales results, and other data related to the Chinese/Vietnamese client’s services; works as an independent consultant or as part of consultancy firm to provide sales expertise to Chinese/ Vietnamese clients; create detailed reports with research findings and analysis to with sales strategies.

84.

85.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 86.

64.

Basic Qualification: College graduate: preferably 6 months -1year as sales consultant.

87.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 88.

65.

Brief Job Description: Corporate affairs and company’s legal needs in compliance with internal requirements.

Basic Qualification: Knowledge in corporate affairs for 10 years.

ZHANG, HE Mandarin Customer Service Brief Job Description: Responsible for handling service support calls

89.

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

MINDSCAPE CREATIVES INC. Unit 19-o, Burgundy Corporate Tower, 252 Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Pio Del Pilar, City Of Makati Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing in mandarin Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

90.

91.

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. 4th-11th Flr. Nexgen Tower, C4 Rd. Edsa Ext., Barangay 76, Pasay City HNIN THAN THAR OO Burmese Customer Service Representative 67.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires KYAR YI Burmese Customer Service Representative

68.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires CHONG, XINLONG Chinese Customer Service Representative

69.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires

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

92.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to Speak, Read, and Write Chinese Language

93.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to Speak, Read, and Write Chinese Language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires HU, XING Chinese Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires LIU, BIN Chinese Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries LUO, XIAOLI Chinese Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires VONEXAY Chinese Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires WANG, ENQIANG Chinese Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries WANG, SHIXIONG Chinese Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires WU, ANCHUN Chinese Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries YIN, LEI Chinese Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires ZHANG, WENLI Chinese Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires ZHANG, XINLONG Chinese Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires KEVIN ANDERSON Indonesian Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries.

CHIN KE QIN Malaysian Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires CHIN ZHENG YEE Malaysian Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries LAU EE MING Malaysian Customer Service Representative

MAA GENERAL ASSURANCE PHILIPPINES, INC. 10/f The Pearl Bank Centre, 146 Valero St., Bel-air, City Of Makati MUHAMMAD SAKIN SIM BIN ABDULLAH Treasurer

HU, SUIXIN Chinese Customer Service Representative

CHI PEY LEH Malaysian Customer Service Representative

PHAM DUY TRUNG Mandarin Sales Consultant Brief Job Description: Research industries, markets, demographics, trends, sales results, and other data related to the Chinese/Vietnamese client’s services; works as an independent consultant or as part of consultancy firm to provide sales expertise to Chinese/ Vietnamese clients; create detailed reports with research findings and analysis to with sales strategies.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries.

ADREEN KONG YOU SOON Malaysian Customer Service Representative

LUU VAN THUAN Mandarin Sales Consultant Basic Qualification: College graduate: preferably 6 months -1year as sales consultant.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries.

FANG, YI Chinese Customer Service Representative

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

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Chinese dialect (Mandarin, Folkien, Cantonese)

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION DONG, FANYUAN Chinese Customer Service Representative

LA DUC HUYNH Mandarin Sales Consultant

66.

CHENG, YUN-ZI Chinese Customer Service Representative

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

No.

HOANG THI LAN ANH Mandarin Sales Consultant

JIU ZHOU TECHNOLOGIES INTERNATIONAL, INC. U-3401 34/f Pbcom Tower, 6795 Ayala Ave. Cor. V.a. Rufino St., Bel-air, City Of Makati Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing English and their respective native language for the position applied for; fluent in Chinese mandarin is an advantage.

Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing English and their respective native language for the position applied for; fluent in chinese mandarin is an advantage.

BE ANH TUAN Mandarin Sales Consultant

Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999 Basic Qualification: Minimum 2 years of working experience on international dredging projects. Fluent in English and additional points for Dutch and French.

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

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

Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999 Basic Qualification: Minimum 6 years of working experience on international dredging projects. Fluent in English additional points for Dutch and French.

Brief Job Description: Maximize profits through developing sales strategies that match customer requirements and by promoting services.

SAKAI, SPENCER Real Estate Web Marketing Sales Consultant

Salary Range: Php 500,000 and above DE GROOTE, JOACHIM JOZEF J. Shore Technician - Heavy Equipment

Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing in English and their respective native language for the position applied for. Fluent in Chinese Mandarin is an advantage.

LOFT SPACES INC. Unit 707 Avida One Park Drive, 11th Avenue Corner 9th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999 Basic Qualification: Minimum 15 years of working experience within the dredging sector as operational Superintendent, works manager and project manager on international dredging projects. Fluent in English and additional points for Dutch and French.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service questions; suggesting information about other products and services.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

JOBHUB INC. Phil Song Te Temple Inc, 4/f 900-910 Reina Regente St., 028, Barangay 292, Binondo, City Of Manila

Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999 Basic Qualification: Minimum 10 years of working experience on international dredging projects. Fluent in English and additional points for Dutch and French.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

HUANG, SSU-HAN Chinese Customer Service Representative

www.businessmirror.com.ph

94.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries.

YONG CHONG HUA Malaysian Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries CAO MINH NGHIA Vietnamese Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires DANG VAN THANG Vietnamese Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires DAU THI THUY TIEN Vietnamese Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires DOAN THI KIM NHUNG Vietnamese Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires DUONG VAN DUNG Vietnamese Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Able to speak, Read, and Write Chinese language.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, Read, and Write Chinese language.

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

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, Read, and Write Chinese language.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to Speak, Read, and Write Chinese Language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to Speak, Read, and Write Chinese Language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, Read, and Write Chinese language.

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

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

BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION HA THI THUY Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

95.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires HOANG THI DONG Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

96.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires HOANG THU PHUONG Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

97.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires LUONG TUAN HUNG Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

98.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries.

UNG CUONG PHI Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

99.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires VONG CHU AN Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

100.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

No.

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

111.

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

112.

113.

101.

Brief Job Description: Provide product/services, information, answer questions and resolve emerging problems.

WULAN MARCELINA RINDU Indonesian Customer Service Representative 102.

Brief Job Description: Provide product/services, information, answer questions and resolve emerging problems.

YEN RIANA Indonesian Customer Service Representative 103.

Brief Job Description: Provide product/services, information, answer questions and resolve emerging problems

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Graduate 4 years bachelor degree with critical thinking and problemsolving skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

NEO INCORPORATED North Tower Centrum Bldg., Aseana Avenue, Entertainment City, Baclaran, City Of Parañaque CHAI, RUOXU Chinese Speaking Admin Associate 104.

Brief Job Description: Assist/help customers, give customers information about product and services

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months customer service experience/good in oral communication and written

114.

KONGYOT, MANOO Wind Turbine Site Quality Inspector 105.

Brief Job Description: Foundation installation process, foundation levelling/flatness check for the erection and assembly of the wind turbines

115.

116.

BUNSA, NATTAWUT Data Analyst Officer 106.

Brief Job Description: Multilingual Customer Support, Specifically For Other Asian Language

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 PUERTO PRIMERA INCORPORATED Unit 301a 3/f Myers Bldg. Rs Oca Street, Cor. A.c. Delgado Street, South Harbor, 068, Barangay 650, Port Area, City Of Manila CHUA ENG KHOON Field Supervisor 107.

Brief Job Description: Monitors and supervises the overall progress of the project, Enforces the implementation of immediate quality control measure within his work area

Basic Qualification: Technical Skills in Port Equipment Industry Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

117.

BELL, ANDREW JAMES Financial Reporting Director Gsc 108.

Brief Job Description: Support the group financial controller as an on the ground ladder, managing, and directing the GSC group finance support functions.

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

118.

CASTILLO, KATHLEEN LYNN Director Of Quality And Expansion 109.

Brief Job Description: Lead Country’s Quality Control Review program with regular reports to founder; Develop Country’s internal controls and procedures for regular testing and improvement

Salary Range: Php 500,000 and above

119.

110.

Brief Job Description: Answering inquiries, resolving problems

Basic Qualification: College graduate, fluent in English, preferably 6mos1year customer service experience Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service questions; suggesting information about other products and services

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service questions; suggesting information about other products and services

Brief Job Description: Attracts Potential Customers by Answering Product and Service Questions Suggesting Information about other products and Services

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service questions; suggesting information about other products and services DOAN SON TUNG Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

120.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service questions; suggesting information about other products and services HA NGOC HUY Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

121.

Brief Job Description: Attracts Potential Customers by Answering Product and Service Questions Suggesting Information about other products and Services HOANG KIM YEN Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

122.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service questions; suggesting information about other products and services LAI A HENH Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

123.

Brief Job Description: Attracts Potential Customers by Answering Product and Service Questions Suggesting Information about other products and Services LE DUC ANH Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

124.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service questions; suggesting information about other products and services LE DUC BINH Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

125.

Brief Job Description: Attracts Potential Customers by Answering Product and Service Questions Suggesting Information about other products and Services LE QUANG THAO Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

126.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service questions; suggesting information about other products and services LE THI MAI Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

127.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service questions; suggesting information about other products and services LE THI MEN Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

128.

RIGHT CHOICE FINANCE CORP. 5e-1 Electra House Bldg., 115-117 Esteban Street, San Lorenzo, City Of Makati

CAI, XIAOXIA Chinese Customer Service Representative

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service questions; suggesting information about other products and services

DO VAN HAI Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

RGP (HONG KONG) - PHILIPPINE BRANCH Units 1615-1616 16/f Tower One & Exchange Plaza, Ayala Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati Basic Qualification: Public Accounting experience preferred; Proven track record of exemplary client service; Excellent international and human relations skills aiding in acting as an effective team leader

Brief Job Description: Attracts Potential Customers by Answering Product and Service Questions Suggesting Information about other products and Services

DO NHAT ANH Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

REGUS SERVICE CENTRE, PHILIPPINES B.V. 15th Floor Three/neo Building E-square Crescent Park West, 3rd Avenue Corner 30th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig Basic Qualification: Degree and professional finance qualification (ACA, ACCA, or similar international equivalent).

10+ years professional finance experience

Brief Job Description: Responsible for inbound and outbound service calls

DANG VAN CHAU Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

PACIFIC SEA BPO SERVICES, INC. 16/f Pbcom Tower, 6795 Ayala Ave. Cor. V.a. Rufino St., Bel-air, City Of Makati Basic Qualification: Must be 21 years old and above; Graduate of any Vocational or Bachelor’s Degree Course; At least 1 year experience as Data Analyst or Customer Service; With good oral and written

LIM SENG LONG Mandarin Speaking Customer Service

DANG HUU PHUOC Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

Basic Qualification: Experience in quality inspection of wind turbine generator Salary Range: Php 500,000 and above

Brief Job Description: Answering inquiries, resolving problems

DANG DUC TUAN Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

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

NES GLOBAL TALENT LIMITED Regus 9/r. Filinvest One Building, Northgate Cyberzone Filinvest, Alabang, City Of Muntinlupa

ZHOU, HUANYU Chinese Customer Service Representative

BUI THI HANG Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Graduate 4 years bachelor degree with critical thinking and problem solving skills.

Brief Job Description: Answering inquiries, resolving problems

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Preferably 6mos-1year customer service experience, college graduate, fluent in English,

No.

130.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Preferably 6mos-1year customer service experience, college graduate, fluent in English,

131.

132.

133.

Brief Job Description: Attracts Potential Customers by Answering Product and Service Questions Suggesting Information about other products and Services LE THI MY HANH Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

129.

Brief Job Description: Attracts Potential Customers by Answering Product and Service Questions Suggesting Information about other products and Services

134.

135.

136.

137.

138.

139.

140.

141.

142.

143.

144.

145.

146.

147.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service queries; suggesting information about other products and services.

NGUYEN TRAN PHONG Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills

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

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering products and service questions, suggesting information about other products and services.

NGUYEN TIEN THANH Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

148.

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service queries; suggesting information about other products and services.

NGUYEN TIEN ANH Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

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

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

Brief Job Description: Attracts Potential Customers by Answering Product and Service Questions Suggesting Information about other products and Services NGUYEN THI QUYNH DIEP Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills)

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering products and service questions, suggesting information about other products and services.

NGUYEN THI LAN Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills)

Brief Job Description: Attracts Potential Customers by Answering Product and Service Questions Suggesting Information about other products and Services NGUYEN THI KIEU Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service questions; suggesting information about other products and services.

NGUYEN THI HUYEN TRANG Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills)

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service questions; suggesting information about other products and services.

NGUYEN THI HAI Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service questions; suggesting information about other products and services.

NGUYEN SON TUNG Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills)

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service questions; suggesting information about other products and services.

NGUYEN QUOC TUAN Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service questions; suggesting information about other products and services.

NGUYEN QUANG HUY Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills)

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service questions; suggesting information about other products and services.

NGUYEN HUU VUONG Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills)

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service questions; suggesting information about other products and services.

NGUYEN HUU DUYET Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service questions; suggesting information about other products and services.

NGUYEN HOANG LIEM Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills)

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service questions; suggesting information about other products and services.

NGUYEN DUC NGHI Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills)

Brief Job Description: Attracts Potential Customers by Answering Product and Service Questions Suggesting Information about other products and Services NGUYEN DANH PHUONG Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills)

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service questions; suggesting information about other products and services.

LUU THI THU THUY Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

Basic Qualification: Excellent in reading, writing and speaking in mandarin

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service questions; suggesting information about other products and services LUU THI THOI Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

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

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

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION LIU SI CAM Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

SOMI UNLIMITED SOLUTIONS, INC. 10/f Tower 2 Double Dragon Plaza Bldg., Edsa Corner Macapagal Ave. St. Zone 10, District 1, Barangay 76, Pasay City

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

Basic Qualification: Graduate 4 years bachelor degree with critical thinking and problem solving skills.

CHEN, XIAOMING Chinese Customer Service Representative

A15

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

SEAGULL-WORLD INC. Unit 2807 28/f Cityland, Pasong Tamo Tower, 2210 Chino Roces Ave., Pio Del Pilar, City Of Makati

MPOTECH DIGITAL SYSTEM INC. 47/f Pbcom Tower, 6795 Ayala Ave. Cor. V.a Rufino St., Bel-air, City Of Makati SUN MARLIN Indonesian Customer Service Representative

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Tuesday, May 31, 2022

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service queries; suggesting information about other products and services.

NGUYEN VAN HANH Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

149.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service queries; suggesting information about other products and services.

NGUYEN VAN HIEU Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

150.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service queries; suggesting information about other products and services.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills) Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and written skills) Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and written skills) Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and written skills) Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and written skills) Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and written skills) Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and written skills) Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and written skills) Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and written skills) Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and written skills) Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and written skills) Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills) Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (verbal and written skills).

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills) Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (verbal and written skills).

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (verbal and written skills).

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (verbal and written skills).

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (verbal and written skills).

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

BusinessMirror

A16 A6 Tuesday, May 31, 2022

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION NGUYEN VAN HUNG Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

151.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering products and service questions, suggesting information about other products and services.

NGUYEN XUAN HUONG Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

152.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service queries; suggesting information about other products and services.

NGUYEN XUAN LAM Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

153.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering products and service questions, suggesting information about other products and services.

PHAM BICH PHUONG Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

154.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service queries; suggesting information about other products and services.

PHAM VAN TAN Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

155.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service queries; suggesting information about other products and services.

PHAM VAN TOI Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

156.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service queries; suggesting information about other products and services.

PHAN THI THUY HANG Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

157.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering products and service questions, suggesting information about other products and services.

SAN PHUNG DAU Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

158.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering products and service questions, suggesting information about other products and services.

TANG PHAT MAN Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

159.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering products and service questions, suggesting information about other products and services.

TANG THI CAM TIEN Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

160.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering products and service questions, suggesting information about other products and services.

TONG PHUOC NHAT MINH Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

161.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering products and service questions, suggesting information about other products and services.

TRAN CONG THAI Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

162.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service queries; suggesting information about other products and services.

TRAN DANG NAM Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

163.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering products and service questions, suggesting information about other products and services.

TRAN NHU HIEU Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

164.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service questions; suggesting information about other products and services TRAN QUANG PHUONG Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

165.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service questions; suggesting information about other products and services TRAN THI YEN Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

166.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering products and service questions, suggesting information about other products and services.

TRAN TRUNG HIEU Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

167.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service questions; suggesting information about other products and services TRAN VAN HAI Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

168.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service questions; suggesting information about other products and services TRINH VIET ANH Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

169.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering products and service questions, suggesting information about other products and services.

VU VAN KHOI Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

170.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service questions; suggesting information about other products and services

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

No.

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills) Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (verbal and written skills).

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills) Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (verbal and written skills).

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (verbal and written skills).

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

GAO, YU Chinese Speaking Brand Marketing Specialist 172.

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills) Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills)

SAHU, RAVI KUMAR Hydrologist 173.

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

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills) Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (verbal and written skills).

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

174.

175.

171.

Brief Job Description: Assist/help customers, give customers information about product and services

Brief Job Description: The consultant will provide advice to TSI Management concerning matters relating to operations and its organization

CHANG CHIEN, YA Chinese Marketing Specialist 176.

Brief Job Description: Conduct market research to find answers about consumer requirement, habit, and trends.

SYUE, JING-RU a.k.a. HSUEH, CHING-JU Sr. Manager, Promotion & Events 177.

Brief Job Description: Shall ensure MBR leads and maintains a competitive position within the dynamic Asian hospitality gaming industry, oversee events, promotions and concepts.

LIU, CHE-YU Mandarin Speaking Customer Service Officer 178.

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

CHEN, PEI Chinese Customer Service Representative 179.

Brief Job Description: Conduct market research to find answers about consumer requirements, habits and trends

LIU, PEI-LIN Chinese Customer Service Representative 180.

Brief Job Description: Conduct market research to find answers about consumer requirements, habits and trends

WANG, WAN-WEI Chinese Customer Service Representative 181.

Brief Job Description: Conduct market research to find answers about consumer requirements, habits and trends

WU, HUI-WEN Chinese Customer Service Representative 182.

Brief Job Description: Conduct market research to find answers about consumer requirements, habits and trends

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills)

LE THI THU HUYEN Vietnamese Customer Service Representative 183.

Brief Job Description: Conduct market research to find answers about consumer requirements, habits and trends

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills) Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

MAI THI DUNG Vietnamese Customer Service Representative 184.

Brief Job Description: Conduct market research to find answers about consumer requirements, habits and trends

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

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

186.

Basic Qualification: At least 19 y/o.

Ability to speak, write, and communicate in Taiwanese.

187.

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

188.

MAI XUAN DUY Vietnamese Customer Service Representative 185.

Brief Job Description: Conduct market research to find answers about consumer requirements, habits and trends

Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing in English and their respective native language for the position applied for. Fluent in

189.

190.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing in English and their respective native language for the position applied for. Fluent in

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing in English and their respective native language for the position applied for. Fluent in Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing in English and their respective native language for the position applied for. Fluent in Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

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

Brief Job Description: Ensures all task are correctly completed, on time and within budget

Basic Qualification: Fluent in mandarin and English language both verbal and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in mandarin and English language both verbal and written

Brief Job Description: Responsible for managing technical issues on materials, equipment being used

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in mandarin and English language both verbal and written

Brief Job Description: Responsible for managing technical issues on materials, equipment being used

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

MICHAEL ANTHONY Indonesian-speaking Customer Service Officer 191.

Basic Qualification: Indonesian speaking and written.

Brief Job Description: Indonesian written reports on a daily operation of call center activities performing customer oriented telephone activities and various background operation duties.

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

FEBRIAN SYAHPUTRA Indonesian-speaking Customer Service Officer 192.

Basic Qualification: Indonesian speaking and written.

Brief Job Description: Indonesian written reports on a daily operation of call center activities performing customer oriented telephone activities and various background operation duties.

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

HENDRIK SAPUTRA Indonesian-speaking Customer Service Officer 193.

Basic Qualification: Indonesian speaking and written.

Brief Job Description: Indonesian written reports on a daily operation of call center activities performing customer oriented telephone activities and various background operation duties.

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

NOPI WAHYUNI Indonesian-speaking Customer Service Officer 194.

Basic Qualification: Indonesian speaking and written.

Brief Job Description: Indonesian written reports on a daily operation of call center activities performing customer oriented telephone activities and various background operation duties.

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

RADHI IKHSAN SELGA ROZY Indonesian-speaking Customer Service Officer 195.

Basic Qualification: Indonesian speaking and written.

Brief Job Description: Indonesian written reports on a daily operation of call center activities performing customer oriented telephone activities and various background operation duties.

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

RYHAS ASHIDDIQIE Indonesian-speaking Customer Service Officer 196.

Basic Qualification: Indonesian speaking and written.

Brief Job Description: Indonesian written reports on a daily operation of call center activities performing customer oriented telephone activities and various background operation duties.

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

SHINTA TJHONG Indonesian-speaking Customer Service Officer 197.

Basic Qualification: Indonesian speaking and written.

Brief Job Description: Indonesian written reports on a daily operation of call center activities performing customer oriented telephone activities and various background operation duties.

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

ZXY ECOMMERCE PLATFORM & CONSULTANCY INC. 1960, A Mabini St., 077, Barangay 701, Malate, City Of Manila

TANG, LI Mandarin Customer Service Representative

198.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing in English and their respective native language for the position applied for. Fluent in

Brief Job Description: Responsible for ordering equipment and supplies, managing deadlines and workflow

ZAPPORT SERVICES, INC. 36/f Burgundy Corporate Tower, 252 Sen. Gil J. Puyat Ave., Pio Del Pilar, City Of Makati

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing in English and their respective native language for the position applied for. Fluent in

Basic Qualification: Fluent in mandarin and English language both verbal and written

XIE, WEI Project Manager

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing in English and their respective native language for the position applied for. Fluent in

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

CHEN, RUI Project Manager

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

Brief Job Description: Conduct market research to find answers about consumer requirements, habits and trends

LONG, LITAO Deputy Project Manager

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

Basic Qualification: Must have a bachelor’s degree in hospitality, marketing and business administration and at least five years of experience.

Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing in English and their respective native language for the position applied for. Fluent in

LIU, YOUJUN Chief Project Coordinator

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

Basic Qualification: Must Possess at Least a Bachelor’s Degree/college in Marketing, Accountancy, or Equivalent. At Least 3 Years of Working Experience in Related Field Preferably in the It Consulting Industry.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

XIDIAN ENERGY CONSTRUCTION CORP. Unit 1207 The Trade And Financial Tower, 32nd St. Cor. 7th Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

WANFANG TECHNOLOGY MANAGEMENT, INC. 6-9/f Double Dragon Plaza, Edsa Cor. Macapagal Ave., Barangay 76, Pasay City

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

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months customer service experience/good in oral communication and written

Basic Qualification: At least (2) years of working experience in the related field, fluent in mandarin/Chinese language

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

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills)

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills)

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

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

NGO DUC VIET Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

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

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills)

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

Basic Qualification: Master Degree in Hydrology & Water Resources

TIAN XIA TECHNOLOGIES INTERNATIONAL, INC. Bldg. B Filinvest Cyberzone 6, Bay City, Barangay 76, Pasay City

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

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills)

No.

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

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

SPRITZER TRADING CORP. 37/f Lkg Tower, 6801 Ayala Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati ELLA GUSTIANA Chinese Speaking Brand Marketing Specialist

Brief Job Description: Develop, create, and modify general computer applications software or specialized utility programs.

LEE, CHI HO Business Consultant

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

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

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months customer service experience/good in oral communication and written

TAPSERVICES, INC. Unit 902 Orient Square, Don F., Ortigas Jr. Road Ortigas Center, San Antonio, City Of Pasig

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills)

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills)

Brief Job Description: Conduct or oversee the conduct of field investigations on matter such as hydro-meteorology, water quality, environment, topography, geology and coordinates data collection

CHEN, BING Software Development Specialist

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills) Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

SUPREME CHENGHAO MANAGEMENT OPC Level 26-a Rufino Pacific Tower, 6784 Ayala Ave., San Lorenzo, City Of Makati

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and Written Skills)

Brief Job Description: Assist/help customers, give customers information about product and services

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

STA. CLARA INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION 2f, Unit 7, 8, & 9, Highway 54 Plaza Edsa Cor Stanford, Wack-wack Greenhills, City Of Mandaluyong

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (verbal and written skills).

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

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Brief Job Description: Mandarin Customer Service Representative will be in-charge of monitoring delivery of products/services to clients; processing client’s orders, Responsible for assisting clients with product information. Ensure customer satisfaction and provide professional customer support.

ZHANG, PEIWEN Mandarin Customer Service Representative

199.

Brief Job Description: Mandarin Customer Service Representative will be in-charge of monitoring delivery of products/services to clients; processing client’s orders, Responsible for assisting clients with product information. Ensure customer satisfaction and provide professional customer support.

Basic Qualification: Proficient in English and Mandarin languages (reading and writing). Good typing skills: at least 40 and above WPM. Ability to multitask, prioritize and manage time effectively.

Proficient in Microsoft Docs, Excel & Google Sheet.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in English and Mandarin languages (reading and writing). Good typing skills: at least 40 and above WPM. Ability to multitask, prioritize and manage time effectively.

Proficient in Microsoft Docs, Excel & Google Sheet.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 *Date Generated: May 30, 2022

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

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

Companies

Editor: Jennifer A. Ng

Tuesday, May 31, 2022

B1

Power, property units to get bulk of capex budget–FPH

L

By VG Cabuag

@villygc

opez-led First Philippine Holdings Corp. (FPH) said it is allotting some P51 billion for consolidated capital expenditures (capex) this year, more than half of which will be spent on power generation.

This year’s capex is slightly higher than the previous year’s P50 billion, the company said.

Emmanuel Antonio P. Singson, the company’s treasurer and CFO, said some 56 percent of the budget, or about P29 billion, was allocated to its power generation group. This will be for Energy Development Corp.’s drilling and growth initiatives, and for First Gen Corp.’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) and Aya projects.

“Some 35 percent of the budget, or about P18 billion, is allocated to our property sector. The balance of P4 billion is allocated to grow our construction, manufacturing and new businesses in healthcare and education,” Singson said during the company’s stockholders’ meeting on Monday. “We expect our financial performance in 2022 to be relatively flat compared to last year.”

“FPH closed 2021 with a consolidated attributable recurring

net income of P10.1 billion, up by 7 percent from last year. Real estate, construction, and energy solutions were our main drivers of growth,” company president Francis Giles Puno said.

First Gen’s natural gas development, through the FGEN Batangas LNG Terminal Project, is targeting to initiate commercial operations by this year.

The company also said FG Hydro initiated the development of the 100-megawatt Aya PumpedStorage Project in Pantabangan, Nueva Ecija. The project is envisioned to be a pioneering variable-speed pumped storage facility in the country.

The project is adjacent to the Pantabangan Hydroelectric Power Plant, which is also owned and operated by FG Hydro.

It will use the Pantabangan and Masiway reservoirs to store energy during off-peak periods when spot prices are low and generate electricity during peak periods when spot prices are high,

as well as provide ancillary services for the security and stability of the national grid.

Puno said the company “fared well” amid the pandemic, avoiding the increased prices for coal that the majority of energy players unexpectedly suffered from.

“On an operational level, we focused on protecting our people through our Covid-19 information and vaccination campaign as well as shelter-in-place accommodations.

What we learned is that phenomena such as viruses that affect public health and stronger storms due to climate change will continue to disrupt the way we live until we change the way we do things with resilience and antifragility in mind,” he said.

“This serves as both a challenge and opportunity for FPH. There is a lot of work to be done to achieve decarbonization and regeneration and search for solutions that are bespoke to the Philippine context.”

PHL aims to attract more SSPOs

By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan

A

fter giving the green light to Elon Musk’s SpaceX, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) vowed to make it easier for other satellite internet providers to do business in the Philippines.

“The DICT will continue to find ways to make the accreditation process faster, more convenient, and will provide policy support to companies like Starlink. I urge you to intensify your corporate presence in the country,” Acting ICT Secretary Emmanuel Rey R. Caintic said.

Just recently, the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) approved the

registration of Starlink Internet Services Philippines Inc., the local unit of billionaire Musk’s SpaceX, as a “value-added services” provider.

This allows Starlink to directly access satellite systems, build and operate satellitebased broadband facilities, and offer Internet connectivity solutions in the Philippines.

Starlink’s entry makes the Philippines the first country in Southeast Asia to “enjoy the services of Starlink broadband service which provides a low-Earth orbit satellite system designed to deliver broadband internet connectivity with speeds between 100 to 200 Megabits per second (Mbps) especially in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged areas or GIDA sites where laying fiber cables is difficult,” said Caintic.

The approval of Starlink’s registration came just months after President Duterte signed Republic Act (RA) 11647 or the Amended Foreign Investments Act, which liberalized the foray of foreign companies into the Philippines.

“DICT continues to provide an enabling environment especially for new players such as Starlink. In line with the RA 11647 that opens up our gates to more foreign players, SSPO [Satellite Systems Providers and/or Operators] accreditation is an acknowledgement from us that you are allowed to do business in the country. Please continue to follow our existing telecommunication laws and make sure to deliver faster and secure connectivity in our country,” Caintic said.

Ayala to expand Iloilo IVF facility C onglomerate Ayala Corp. plans to further develop its in-vitro fertilization (IVF) center and integrated practice unit in its QualiMed Hospital in Iloilo, as part of the company’s efforts to plug the gaps in the country’s health sector.

Henry Tupas, director and president of the Iloilo Fertility and Reproductive Care Center, said the project is already in its second phase of expansion. It is the first and only fertility and IVF center in Western Visayas.

Estimates showed that one in 10 Filipinos is affected by infertility and that 10 percent of those with infertility concerns will undergo IVF treatment.

“It will offer assisted reproductive technology, cryopreservation and genetic testing with our very own, fertility doctor Dr. Rey Castillo leading the way,” Tupas said.

The services to be offered at the facility is organized around the patient’s primary problem of infertility and providing the full cycle of care for the patient’s medical condition.

“We have a genuine desire to address gaps in the healthcare sector. Our belief is that healthcare is a fundamental human right. Creating an integrated healthcare ecosystem that will provide accessible and affordable healthcare for all Filipinos is the bold vision of AC Health,” Ayala Healthcare Holdings Inc. President Paolo Borromeo said.

“At Ayala, nation-building has always been at our core and the pandemic has only reinforced our long-standing commitment towards improving lives and promoting development and growth for the country, which of course includes accessible and quality healthcare.

The pandemic underpinned the importance of investing in healthcare and we at Ayala promise to continue doing so,” Ayala President and CEO Fernando Zobel de Ayala said.

AC Health early this month has been recognized by the Healthcare Asia Awards as COVID Management Initiative of the Year for its integrated ecosystem approach in responding to Covid-19.

The company was hailed for helping strengthen the coun-

try’s Covid-19 response by leveraging its “unique ecosystem” to address the gaps and fulfill its mandate of providing quality, affordable and accessible healthcare to Filipinos. VG Cabuag

Nestlé PHL, Aboitiz unit renew power supply agreement

By Lenie Lectura @llectura

A

boitiz Power Corp. and Nestlé Philippines have renewed their power supply deal as they pursue their goal of reducing carbon emissions.

The partnership enables Nestlé PH to use clean and renewable energy for six of its facilities, sourced from the Tiwi and MakBan Geothermal Power Plants, operated and managed by AP Renewables Inc. (APRI), an AboitizPower subsidiary.

AboitizPower, together with its partners, is the Philippines’s largest owner and operator of renewable energy based on installed capacity.

T he p a r t ne r s h ip b e t we e n Nestlé PH and Aboitiz Power began in 2013, when the former started its energ y transition.

Currently, Aboitiz Power supplies Cleanergy to all of Nestlé’s factories in Luzon as well as its local head office in Makati City.

Globally, Nestlé as the world’s largest food and beveragecorporation aims to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and reduce in half by 2030. In order to achieve this, Nestlé will, among other measures, transition to 100 percent clean and re-

newable electricity across its 800 global sites by 2025. In 2021, the Nestlé Group had already attained 63.7 percent of its goal of sourcing clean and renewable energy.

“Our transition to 100 percent clean and renewable electricity in the country is a high priority. We are confident that we are on the right track towards achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions.

We thank AboitizPower for being our partner and a reliable source of Cleanergy,” said Nestlé PH Chairman and CEO Kais Marzouki.

“We work constantly to deliver the quality of energy that will help power the needs of our partners and see their vision of environmental conservation becoming a reality. We are happy to support Nestlé Philippines as it pursues sustainable practices and maximizes the use of renewable energy to create a healthier future for the planet,” said Sandro Aboitiz, Senior Vice President of AboitizPower’s Commercial Operations Business Unit.

AboitizPower is targeting to expand its Cleanergy portfolio, in support of the government’s efforts to promote renewable energy in the country. It will build an additional 3,700 MW of renewable energy, growing its existing Cleanergy capacity threefold by 2030.

B2

Companies BusinessMirror

Tuesday, May 31, 2022

Royalties remitted to DOE in Q1 hit record–Semirara

S

By Lenie Lectura

@llectura

emirara Mining and Power Corp. (SMPC) said Monday it has remitted P5.9 billion in royalties to the Department of Energy (DOE) in the first quarter.

will receive around P1.1 billion and P833 million, respectively.

The Local Government Code of 1991 entitles local government units to a 40 percent share of royalty proceeds from petroleum, coal, geothermal, hydrothermal and wind resources.

In February, SMPC reported that it posted a record net income of P16.2 billion in 2021. The figure is a 393-percent leap from the previous year’s P3.3 billion, mainly due to an 8-percent rise in coal production, 16-percent jump in coal shipments and 71-percent surge in average coal selling prices.

Contributions from the coal segment grew by 535 percent to P11.4 billion from P1.8 billion while its power subsidiaries delivered improved performances.

SMPC is the only verticallyintegrated power generator in the country that produces its own fuel.

As the largest domestic coal producer, it supplies affordable fuel to power plants, cement factories and other industrial facilities across the Philippines.

This is the highest amount remitted by the power firm to date.

The first-quarter remittance is an 807-percent increase from the P656 million that SMPC paid during the same period last year. All-time high coal shipments and average selling prices account for the recordsetting government share.

“We had an exceptionally strong start, so much so that in three months, we surpassed our previous full-year royalty payments,” said SMPC President Maria Cristina Gotianun.

In 2021, SMPC paid a total of P5.4 billion to DOE as improved coal output and favorable market conditions allowed the company to ship more coal at elevated prices.

Of the P5.9 billion remitted by SMPC, more than P3.5 billion will be retained by the national government.

In accordance with the law, the rest will go to the host local government units of the SMPC mine site.

The province of Antique will receive P476 million while the municipality of Caluya and Barangay Semirara

mutual funds

May 30, 2022

NAV

One Year Three Year

Five Year

per share Return*

Y-T-D Return

Stock Funds ALFM Growth Fund, Inc. -a

216.46

0.75%

-5.91%

-4.62%

-7.13%

ATRAM Alpha Opportunity Fund, Inc. -a

1.4169

12.77%

-3.85%

-2.14%

-14.86%

1.7%

-9.71%

-7.16%

-7.9%

ATRAM Philippine Equity Opportunity Fund, Inc. -a 2.9819

Climbs Share Capital Equity Investment Fund Corp. -a 0.7283 -3.42%

-7.86% n.a.

-3.73%

First Metro Consumer Fund on MSCI Phils. IMI, Inc. -a 0.6786 -3.99%

-7.7% n.a.

-11.97%

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

4.8625

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

78.37

3.45%

-3.49%

-2.08%

-6.18%

0.7246

7.3%

-5.74%

-5.22%

-13.87% n.a.

-17.01%

-16.41%

PAMI Equity Index Fund, Inc. -a

44.4855

1.32%

-4.76%

-3.19%

Philam Strategic Growth Fund, Inc. -a

464.07

0.43%

-4.71%

-3.26%

-7.31%

Philequity Dividend Yield Fund, Inc. -a

1.3304

19.45%

0.61%

0.34%

-1.91%

Philequity Fund, Inc. -a

33.9344

3.28%

-4.04%

-2.14%

-7.27%

0.8788

2.8%

-5.21% n.a.

-6.65%

Philequity MSCI Philippine Index Fund, Inc. -a

-7.57%

Philequity PSE Index Fund Inc. -a

4.5958

2.18%

-4.15%

-2.6%

-7.36%

Philippine Stock Index Fund Corp. -a

766.83

1.86%

-4.17%

-2.63%

-7.44% -8.58%

Soldivo Strategic Growth Fund, Inc. -a

0.688

1.33%

-9.29%

-5.41%

Sun Life Prosperity Philippine Equity Fund, Inc. -a 3.458

1.62%

-6.81%

-3.97%

-8.41%

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

0.8731

1.52%

-4.47%

-2.87%

United Fund, Inc. -a

1.64%

-4.78%

-1.93%

-6.95%

3.1985

-7.49%

-7.56%

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

1.0989

Philippine Stock Index Fund Corp. -a

6.39% n.a. n.a.

-5.49%

934.7 n.a. n.a. n.a. n.a.

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

103.3805

2.32%

-3.95%

-2.23%

-7.26%

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

$0.9438

Sun Life Prosperity World Voyager Fund, Inc. -a $1.5361

-25.51%

-0.17%

-0.82%

-16.22%

-12.28%

6.97%

5.82%

-16.81%

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

1.5669

-4.52%

-2.87%

-2.56%

-7.39%

ATRAM Philippine Balanced Fund, Inc. -a

2.1562

-1.18%

-2.03%

-1.86%

-5.49%

1.47%

-0.54%

-0.09%

-4.16%

First Metro Save and Learn Balanced Fund Inc. -a 2.5791

First Metro Save and Learn F.O.C.C.U.S. Dynamic Fund, Inc. -a 0.2012

5.67% n.a. n.a.

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

0.16%

0.21%

-4.45% -5.84%

1.927

3.6%

PAMI Horizon Fund, Inc. -a

3.5453

-1.91%

-1.13%

-1.08%

Philam Fund, Inc. -a

15.8844

-1.9%

-1.38%

-1.13%

-5.71%

Solidaritas Fund, Inc. -a

2.0244

-0.02%

-1.67%

-1.17%

-4.57%

Sun Life of Canada Prosperity Balanced Fund, Inc. -a 3.4182 -0.39%

-3.72%

-2.01%

-6.28%

Sun Life Prosperity Dynamic Fund, Inc. -a

-3.11%

-1.56%

-6.53%

0.8919

4.77%

-3.73%

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

0.92

-5.09%

-2.67% n.a.

-7.05%

Sun Life Prosperity Achiever Fund 2038, Inc. -a

0.8637

-2.32%

-4.55% n.a.

-8.55%

Sun Life Prosperity Achiever Fund 2048, Inc. -a

0.8537

-1.75%

-4.84% n.a.

-8.59%

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

$0.03403

-10.45%

-2.41%

-0.87%

-10.31%

PAMI Asia Balanced Fund, Inc. -b

$0.9413

-17.53%

-0.32%

-0.56%

-11.79%

Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Advantage Fund, Inc. -a $4.1203 -11.46%

4.08%

3.85%

-14.2%

Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Wellspring Fund, Inc. -a,2 $1.052 -11.36%

0.26%

0.85%

-12.23%

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

372.63

0.39%

2.21%

2.29%

-0.45%

ATRAM Corporate Bond Fund, Inc. -a

1.8886

-1.34%

0.02%

-0.01%

0.21%

Cocolife Fixed Income Fund, Inc. -a

3.2296

0.15%

2.06%

3.38%

-0.44%

Ekklesia Mutual Fund Inc. -a

2.1863

-3.02%

0.26%

0.82%

-2.9%

First Metro Save and Learn Fixed Income Fund,Inc. -a 2.4112 -0.9%

1.88%

1.71%

-0.61%

Philam Bond Fund, Inc. -a

4.218

-5.76%

1.06%

0.74%

-4.04%

1.3108

-0.94%

2.85%

2.68%

-0.63%

Philequity Peso Bond Fund, Inc. -a

3.8856

-2.28%

2.28%

2.26%

-2.02%

Soldivo Bond Fund, Inc. -a

1.0064

-1.56%

2.78%

1.67%

-2.12%

Sun Life of Canada Prosperity Bond Fund, Inc. -a 3.1381

-1.88%

2.49%

2.71%

-1.55%

Sun Life Prosperity GS Fund, Inc. -a

-2.59%

1.65%

2.02%

-1.84%

Philam Managed Income Fund, Inc. -a

1.6988

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

$482.6

-0.43%

1.89%

1.92%

-1.42%

ALFM Euro Bond Fund, Inc. -a

Є213.29

-2.91%

-0.43%

0.19%

-3.05%

ATRAM Total Return Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -b $1.0773

-8.66%

-2.79%

-0.79%

-10.52%

-1.2%

-0.32%

-5.77%

First Metro Save and Learn Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -a $0.0245 -5.41% PAMI Global Bond Fund, Inc -b

$0.913

-13.06%

-5.27%

-3.18%

-10.74%

$2.2557

-9.44%

-0.55%

0.39%

-9.98%

$0.0609138

-3.03%

1.25%

1.31%

-2.21%

Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Abundance Fund, Inc. -a $2.8297 -10.15%

-2.16%

-0.99%

-11.47%

Philam Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -a Philequity Dollar Income Fund Inc. -a

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

131.77

1.26%

2.31%

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

1.0626

1.04%

1.63% n.a.

2.5%

0.44%

Sun Life Prosperity Peso Starter Fund, Inc. -a,1 1.3239

1.53%

2.21%

2.48%

0.46%

0.63%

Primarily invested in foreign currency securities (shares) Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Starter Fund, Inc. -a $1.0631

0.58%

1.19% n.a.

0.24%

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

43.8606 n.a. n.a. n.a. n.a.

Sun Life Prosperity World Equity Index Feeder Fund, Inc. -a 1.2214

-1.22% n.a. n.a.

-11.68%

Primarily invested in foreign currency securities (units) ALFM Global Multi-Asset Income Fund Inc. -a

$0.8641

-13.59% n.a. n.a.

a - NAVPS as of the previous banking day. b - NAVPS as of two banking days ago.

c - Listed in the PSE.

-10.92%

d - in Net Asset Value per Unit (NAVPU).

1 - Renaming was approved by the SEC last July 8, 2021 (formerly, Sun Life Prosperity Money Market Fund, Inc.).

2 - Adjusted due to stock dividend issuance last November 25, 2021.

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

www.businessmirror.com.ph

PSE STOCK QUOTATIONS

May 30, 2022

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

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

78,760 272,897,003 148,456 199,909,997 5,574,270 610,791 237,696,022 133,000 555,640 23,018 501,750 109,109,507 4,047,194 586,870 223,250 10,650 4,500 31,900 9,500 424,990 49,320 46,000

34,960 105,299,288 63,650 -19,823,870.50 -2,700 -164,357 -48,382,287 11,832,821.50 239,252.50 -69,630 -4,500 -

INDUSTRIAL AC ENERGY 7.17 7.2 7.07 7.36 7 7.17 27,405,000 197,052,049 ALSONS CONS 1.01 1.03 1 1.01 1 1.01 6,000 6,010 31.5 31.6 30.5 31.55 30.45 31.5 943,300 29,600,365 ABOITIZ POWER BASIC ENERGY 0.43 0.435 0.41 0.445 0.41 0.435 35,210,000 15,248,450 19 19.66 19.32 20.05 19 19 1,756,900 34,048,081 FIRST GEN 67.95 68 68 68 67.95 67.95 470 31,959 FIRST PHIL HLDG MERALCO 366.6 372 359.6 372 356 372 423,570 154,922,348 18.52 18.98 18.8 19.3 18.52 18.52 986,200 18,498,444 MANILA WATER PETRON 3.23 3.24 3.21 3.24 3.21 3.24 535,000 1,726,280 4.91 5 5.02 5.02 4.9 5 30,600 152,910 PETROENERGY PHX PETROLEUM 9.13 9.99 9.84 9.99 9.84 9.99 5,000 49,530 SYNERGY GRID 12.78 12.8 12.96 12.96 12.7 12.8 1,736,900 22,240,708 18.5 18.58 18.46 18.58 18.44 18.5 96,500 1,780,490 PILIPINAS SHELL SPC POWER 12.94 12.96 13 13 12.92 12.96 112,400 1,457,842 1.85 1.86 1.86 1.88 1.83 1.86 55,617,000 102,580,720 SOLAR PH 4.59 4.64 4.69 4.69 4.54 4.64 1,279,000 5,928,580 AGRINURTURE AXELUM 2.33 2.35 2.35 2.35 2.32 2.35 136,000 319,440 21.25 21.65 21.3 21.65 21.15 21.65 2,017,500 42,948,885 CENTURY FOOD DEL MONTE 13.1 13.2 13.2 13.2 12.9 13.18 34,800 455,688 7.22 7.24 7.27 7.27 7.18 7.22 87,000 629,260 DNL INDUS 18.1 18.2 18.24 18.24 17.96 18.2 857,600 15,508,624 EMPERADOR SMC FOODANDBEV 61.2 61.5 61.6 61.6 61.2 61.2 106,880 6,573,383.50 0.49 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.49 0.5 1,494,000 738,170 FIGARO COFFEE ALLIANCE SELECT 0.58 0.59 0.6 0.6 0.59 0.59 16,000 9,530 FRUITAS HLDG 1.08 1.09 1.07 1.1 1.06 1.09 20,859,000 22,516,210 107 108 110.5 110.5 106.5 108 14,760 1,581,862 GINEBRA JOLLIBEE 210.4 210.6 213 213 209.6 210.6 916,630 193,346,598 1.19 1.2 1.16 1.21 1.16 1.19 2,683,000 3,197,740 KEEPERS HLDG MAXS GROUP 5.55 5.59 5.73 5.73 5.54 5.55 8,500 47,323 MONDE NISSIN 15.78 15.8 16.4 16.58 15.8 15.8 16,926,800 271,018,258 7.38 7.5 7.38 7.38 7.38 7.38 1,200 8,856 SHAKEYS PIZZA ROXAS AND CO 0.54 0.56 0.54 0.56 0.53 0.54 1,815,000 970,270 4.2 4.29 4.2 4.2 4.2 4.2 10,000 42,000 RFM CORP SWIFT FOODS 0.099 0.105 0.099 0.099 0.099 0.099 120,000 11,880 UNIV ROBINA 107.4 107.5 105 109 105 107.5 1,588,120 170,679,032 0.62 0.63 0.62 0.62 0.62 0.62 30,000 18,600 VITARICH VICTORIAS 2.49 2.82 2.82 2.82 2.82 2.82 10,000 28,200 44.55 50.1 44.55 44.55 44.55 44.55 400 17,820 CONCRETE B CEMEX HLDG 0.73 0.74 0.74 0.74 0.72 0.74 364,000 265,430 EAGLE CEMENT 12.16 12.5 12.1 12.58 12.1 12.16 12,400 151,024 3.55 3.6 3.52 3.65 3.52 3.6 309,000 1,105,120 EEI CORP HOLCIM 5.48 5.5 5.5 5.5 5.48 5.5 6,098,100 33,538,176 4.38 4.45 4.43 4.46 4.33 4.45 135,000 594,130 MEGAWIDE 19.9 19.94 19.9 19.94 19.9 19.94 17,900 356,566 PHINMA TKC METALS 0.67 0.68 0.67 0.68 0.67 0.68 66,000 44,870 0.91 0.92 0.89 0.93 0.87 0.92 4,601,000 4,151,800 VULCAN INDL CROWN ASIA 1.78 1.83 1.83 1.83 1.83 1.83 13,000 23,790 3.6 4.29 3.6 3.6 3.6 3.6 4,000 14,400 LMG CORP MABUHAY VINYL 5 5.36 5.3 5.37 5.3 5.37 1,600 8,585 PRYCE CORP 5.4 5.58 5.32 5.58 5.32 5.4 4,100 22,314 18.46 18.68 18.98 18.98 18.2 18.68 4,800 88,446 CONCEPCION GREENERGY 1.77 1.78 1.78 1.8 1.76 1.78 9,045,000 16,080,720 6.87 6.88 6.82 6.92 6.82 6.88 49,900 342,777 INTEGRATED MICR 0.6 0.61 0.6 0.6 0.59 0.6 271,000 161,500 IONICS PANASONIC 6.2 6.24 6.2 6.24 6.2 6.2 11,400 70,900 1.07 1.1 1.1 1.11 1.07 1.1 32,000 34,810 SFA SEMICON CIRTEK HLDG 2.81 2.84 2.8 2.85 2.78 2.81 1,023,000 2,873,890

36,876,943 4,016,215 -542,900 -9,603,401 -1,359 57,568,678 3,752 -9,850 6,175,540 1,296 282,310 -178,290 -61,040 293,945 -181,022 -243,706 7,863,510.00 58,506.50 4,950 -5,450 523,982 -111,770,374 -11,080 17,394,850 -39,420 -63,184,829 -17,820 -1,430 -77,360 -184,180 40,480 3,300,080 -34,500 -28,100

HOLDING & FRIMS

ABACORE CAPITAL ASIABEST GROUP AYALA CORP ABOITIZ EQUITY ALLIANCE GLOBAL ANSCOR ANGLO PHIL HLDG ATN HLDG A ATN HLDG B COSCO CAPITAL DMCI HLDG FILINVEST DEV GT CAPITAL JG SUMMIT LODESTAR LOPEZ HLDG LT GROUP MABUHAY HLDG METRO PAC INV PACIFICA HLDG PRIME MEDIA REPUBLIC GLASS SOLID GROUP SM INVESTMENTS SAN MIGUEL CORP TOP FRONTIER

43.7 130 9.97 97.25 27 7.21 55 7 18.78 56.1 20.15 92.5 80.8 2.07 3.52 2.13 0.75 0.29 950 0.68 199.7 2,250

1.4 3.61 700 52.5 10.86 9.08 0.9 0.47 0.47 4.71 8.86 7 513 52.4 0.47 2.98 8.36 0.325 3.84 2.59 1.74 2.88 0.86 860 106 111.5

44 130.1 9.98 97.5 27.15 7.23 55.1 8.29 18.8 57.45 20.2 92.55 80.95 2.12 3.55 2.59 0.84 0.31 1,010 0.7 200 2,400

1.41 4.19 701 52.9 10.9 9.15 0.92 0.485 0.5 4.73 8.9 7.08 515 52.85 0.56 3 8.44 0.33 3.86 2.78 1.75 3.23 0.87 862 107 114.7

43.7 127.2 9.98 96 27 7.16 53.85 7 18.64 56 20.15 92 80.8 2 3.49 2.13 0.75 0.29 950 0.65 190.2 2,300

1.32 3.61 681 51 10.88 9 0.89 0.49 0.48 4.72 8.81 6.85 514 51.95 0.51 2.99 8.4 0.33 3.87 2.81 1.75 2.9 0.86 840 104.9 110.1

43.8 131.4 9.98 98 27 7.25 55.2 7 18.8 57.45 20.15 93.45 81.5 2.12 3.5 2.13 0.75 0.29 950 0.7 206 2,300

1.41 3.61 704 53.7 10.96 9.1 0.9 0.49 0.48 4.72 9.01 7 519 53.2 0.56 2.99 8.55 0.33 3.88 2.81 1.78 2.9 0.87 864 107 114.7

43.7 126 9.95 94.7 26.8 7.15 53.85 7 18.4 56 20.05 92 80 2 3.47 2.13 0.75 0.29 950 0.65 190.2 2,300

1.31 3.61 681 50.7 10.82 9 0.88 0.465 0.48 4.68 8.75 6.85 512 51.45 0.51 2.99 8.3 0.33 3.83 2.56 1.71 2.88 0.86 839 104.7 110.1

43.8 130.1 9.96 97.5 27 7.23 55.1 7 18.78 57.45 20.15 92.55 80.8 2.12 3.5 2.13 0.75 0.29 950 0.68 200 2,300

1.41 3.61 701 52.5 10.9 9.1 0.9 0.485 0.48 4.7 8.9 7 515 52.85 0.56 2.99 8.36 0.33 3.86 2.79 1.74 2.9 0.87 862 107 114.7

1,800 2,104,470 14,900 2,053,300 207,100 85,000 4,327,480 19,000 29,700 410 25,000 1,174,730 50,210 291,000 64,000 5,000 6,000 110,000 10 625,000 250 20

59,643,000 1,000 354,060 1,384,410 1,055,300 10,600 161,000 510,000 20,000 1,053,000 2,586,800 100,900 109,990 2,724,250 78,000 1,040,000 3,502,300 60,000 8,928,000 5,000 331,000 92,000 71,000 371,350 170,000 510

80,141,120 3,610 247,793,820 72,365,637.50 11,501,840 96,370 144,360 247,150 9,600 4,949,160 23,018,765 706,165 56,713,400 142,348,498.50 40,000 3,109,600 29,348,012 19,800 34,396,560 13,330 573,010 266,760 61,070 318,420,375 18,112,247 56,611

PROPERTY ARTHALAND CORP 0.55 0.57 0.57 0.57 0.55 0.55 16,000 8,990 AYALA LAND 29.6 29.65 29 29.9 28.85 29.6 13,962,500 411,310,035 4.15 4.16 4.13 4.16 4.11 4.15 280,000 1,160,480 AYALA LAND LOG ALTUS PROP 16.24 16.92 16.2 16.92 16.2 16.92 300 4,932 1.59 1.6 1.57 1.63 1.5 1.59 1,190,000 1,841,930 ARANETA PROP AREIT RT 37.5 40.1 40.75 40.9 37.5 37.5 2,282,300 91,765,420 A BROWN 0.79 0.81 0.81 0.81 0.8 0.8 41,000 32,810 0.089 0.09 0.09 0.095 0.089 0.09 810,000 72,840 CROWN EQUITIES CEB LANDMASTERS 2.7 2.72 2.74 2.74 2.7 2.7 115,000 313,100 0.42 0.425 0.415 0.425 0.415 0.425 2,130,000 894,250 CENTURY PROP 2.54 2.55 2.55 2.55 2.53 2.55 904,000 2,297,240 CITICORE RT DOUBLEDRAGON 8.02 8.14 8.19 8.35 7.97 8.14 78,700 640,120 1.62 1.63 1.61 1.64 1.61 1.63 1,656,000 2,687,480 DDMP RT DM WENCESLAO 6.88 6.89 6.89 6.89 6.88 6.88 34,600 238,371 0.28 0.29 0.28 0.29 0.27 0.29 10,280,000 2,881,450 EVER GOTESCO FILINVEST RT 7.32 7.33 7.34 7.38 7.3 7.33 1,878,700 13,768,884 FILINVEST LAND 0.95 0.97 0.98 0.98 0.95 0.97 20,223,000 19,454,910 0.87 0.89 0.89 0.89 0.89 0.89 4,000 3,560 GLOBAL ESTATE 8990 HLDG 10.2 10.32 10.12 10.4 10.12 10.32 39,100 402,996 0.93 0.94 0.9 0.96 0.9 0.94 166,000 152,540 PHIL INFRADEV CITY AND LAND 0.77 0.78 0.76 0.77 0.76 0.77 26,000 20,010 MEGAWORLD 2.8 2.81 2.81 2.82 2.77 2.81 5,205,000 14,593,590 0.205 0.206 0.212 0.213 0.205 0.205 3,710,000 769,920 MRC ALLIED MREIT RT 16.84 16.86 16.88 16.88 16.8 16.84 5,437,100 91,635,492 OMICO CORP 0.34 0.36 0.35 0.35 0.35 0.35 50,000 17,500 0.405 0.41 0.4 0.405 0.4 0.405 170,000 68,250 PHIL ESTATES PRIMEX CORP 2.04 2.05 2.01 2.08 2.01 2.05 279,000 574,460 7.11 7.12 7.16 7.4 7.12 7.12 11,572,300 83,860,185 RL COMM RT ROBINSONS LAND 18.98 19 18.78 19 18.76 19 2,143,700 40,650,780 PHIL REALTY 0.23 0.243 0.231 0.231 0.23 0.23 220,000 50,770 1.28 1.29 1.28 1.29 1.27 1.29 25,000 32,030 ROCKWELL SHANG PROP 2.48 2.58 2.6 2.6 2.5 2.5 26,000 65,250 2.81 2.94 2.94 2.94 2.9 2.94 152,000 444,880 STA LUCIA LAND SM PRIME HLDG 38 38.2 38 38.85 37.45 38 16,854,500 646,141,045 SOC RESOURCES 0.55 0.62 0.55 0.55 0.55 0.55 2,000 1,100 3.21 3.39 3.38 3.4 3.38 3.4 12,000 40,740 VISTAMALLS SUNTRUST HOME 1 1.03 1 1.03 1 1.03 8,000 8,080 2.48 2.49 2.41 2.49 2.41 2.48 364,000 897,470 VISTA LAND

SERVICES ABS CBN 10.1 10.2 9.95 10.2 9.9 10.2 269,500 2,712,291 GMA NETWORK 11.98 12 11.96 12.04 11.96 12 640,600 7,689,626 0.345 0.375 0.345 0.375 0.345 0.345 70,000 24,450 MANILA BULLETIN MLA BRDCASTING 7.66 8.7 10.48 10.48 8.7 8.7 1,300 11,568 2,574 2,588 2,524 2,608 2,522 2,588 68,285 175,511,800 GLOBE TELECOM 1,961 1,965 1,956 1,966 1,953 1,961 63,230 123,970,070 PLDT APOLLO GLOBAL 0.045 0.046 0.046 0.047 0.045 0.045 160,900,000 7,368,000 26.05 26.45 27 27.35 26.05 26.05 34,587,300 926,600,670 CONVERGE DFNN INC 3.34 3.4 3.55 3.64 3.33 3.4 2,725,000 9,628,590 4.47 4.49 4.55 4.55 4.44 4.47 8,989,000 40,283,810 DITO CME HLDG 1.48 1.49 1.44 1.53 1.43 1.48 5,004,000 7,345,760 NOW CORP TRANSPACIFIC BR 0.33 0.34 0.35 0.365 0.33 0.33 56,240,000 19,759,450 7.1 7.2 7 7.2 7 7.2 1,300 9,240 2GO GROUP ASIAN TERMINALS 13.22 13.5 13.22 13.22 13.22 13.22 2,000 26,440 1.46 1.5 1.46 1.5 1.45 1.5 486,000 707,990 CHELSEA CEBU AIR 47.1 47.45 46.7 47.5 46.7 47.45 40,900 1,927,815 INTL CONTAINER 218 218.8 222.4 223.6 217.8 218 880,250 192,698,902 25 25.05 25 25 24 24 2,000 49,700 LBC EXPRESS MACROASIA 4.92 4.94 4.84 5.02 4.82 4.94 768,000 3,767,730 6.1 6.19 6.08 6.19 6.05 6.19 4,900 29,919 PAL HLDG HARBOR STAR 1.03 1.05 1.01 1.05 0.98 1.05 856,000 874,760 BOULEVARD HLDG 0.09 0.093 0.095 0.098 0.09 0.09 64,120,000 6,006,350 1.62 1.7 1.7 1.7 1.7 1.7 6,000 10,200 DISCOVERY WORLD IPEOPLE 7.21 7.4 7.2 7.4 7.2 7.4 3,000 21,880 STI HLDG 0.345 0.35 0.345 0.345 0.345 0.345 100,000 34,500 1.26 1.27 1.27 1.27 1.27 1.27 1,000 1,270 BELLE CORP BLOOMBERRY 6.49 6.5 6.25 6.55 6.25 6.5 5,380,300 34,848,089 1.31 1.4 1.4 1.4 1.4 1.4 1,000 1,400 PACIFIC ONLINE LEISURE AND RES 1.29 1.33 1.32 1.32 1.28 1.32 8,543,000 11,150,520 PH RESORTS GRP 1.11 1.13 1.08 1.13 1.07 1.11 2,187,000 2,409,810 0.41 0.415 0.415 0.42 0.41 0.415 4,750,000 1,958,700 PREMIUM LEISURE PHILWEB 3.67 3.68 3.7 3.78 3.62 3.68 3,607,000 13,302,330 0.405 0.41 0.41 0.415 0.405 0.405 9,720,000 3,953,950 ALLDAY ALLHOME 5.29 5.3 5.35 5.4 5.3 5.3 1,386,300 7,356,309 METRO RETAIL 1.43 1.44 1.43 1.43 1.43 1.43 700,000 1,001,000 33.4 34.75 33.15 34.75 33.15 34.75 1,027,400 34,988,860 PUREGOLD ROBINSONS RTL 51.85 52.1 52.7 52.7 51.7 51.85 882,440 45,774,546 53.5 54 58 58 50.4 54 13,100 719,239 PHIL SEVEN CORP SSI GROUP 1.37 1.38 1.32 1.38 1.31 1.37 8,452,000 11,552,050 WILCON DEPOT 27 27.1 27 27.2 26.95 27 1,786,400 48,300,205 6.85 7 7 7 7 7 3,200 22,400 IPM HLDG MEDILINES 0.68 0.69 0.67 0.7 0.67 0.69 4,882,000 3,367,550 0.42 0.43 0.42 0.44 0.42 0.42 2,110,000 901,150 PRMIERE HORIZON 4.01 4.1 4.1 4.15 4.1 4.15 56,000 229,810 SBS PHIL CORP

MINING & OIL ATOK 7.41 7.78 7.6 7.8 7.37 7.8 341,200 2,612,883 1.59 1.6 1.59 1.6 1.58 1.6 741,000 1,180,980 APEX MINING ATLAS MINING 6.02 6.03 6 6.03 5.99 6.02 61,800 371,106 6.98 7 6.88 7 6.88 7 28,300 197,106 BENGUET A BENGUET B 6.95 7.25 6.95 7.29 6.95 7.29 4,400 30,889 COAL ASIA HLDG 0.217 0.227 0.237 0.244 0.227 0.227 180,000 42,540 2.7 2.78 2.71 2.79 2.71 2.79 165,000 456,100 CENTURY PEAK DIZON MINES 4.04 4.2 4.2 4.2 4.2 4.2 5,000 21,000 2.6 2.61 2.55 2.61 2.55 2.6 400,000 1,037,770 FERRONICKEL 0.176 0.187 0.173 0.187 0.173 0.187 90,000 16,130 GEOGRACE LEPANTO A 0.133 0.137 0.133 0.139 0.133 0.137 3,100,000 412,730 0.0095 0.0098 0.0096 0.0099 0.0094 0.0094 10,000,000 97,200 MANILA MINING A MARCVENTURES 1.75 1.76 1.68 1.75 1.66 1.75 6,061,000 10,377,510 0.96 1.02 0.96 1.04 0.96 1.02 133,000 133,270 NIHAO NICKEL ASIA 7.12 7.13 7 7.13 6.95 7.13 6,007,500 42,606,262 ORNTL PENINSULA 0.77 0.79 0.78 0.79 0.76 0.79 222,000 173,290 4.5 4.55 4.6 4.6 4.5 4.5 205,000 926,980 PX MINING SEMIRARA MINING 33.35 33.5 33.15 33.9 33.15 33.5 2,711,800 90,912,050 12.7 12.9 12.84 12.9 12.5 12.8 374,200 4,750,330 ACE ENEXOR 0.011 0.012 0.011 0.012 0.011 0.011 33,100,000 373,300 ORNTL PETROL A PHILODRILL 0.009 0.0091 0.0092 0.0093 0.009 0.009 19,000,000 172,700 4.75 4.8 4.82 4.82 4.75 4.82 226,000 1,078,410 PXP ENERGY

PREFFERED HOUSE PREF A 98.85 100 100.5 100.5 98.85 98.85 510 50,440 AC PREF B1 501 502 500.5 503 500.5 502 1,600 801,500 501 519 500 500 500 500 400 200,000 ALCO PREF D AC PREF B2R 500 502 500 500 500 500 8,300 4,150,000 104 108 106 108 106 108 9,500 1,007,600 BRN PREF A CEB PREF 47 47.25 46.7 47 46.7 47 3,900 183,090 DD PREF 99 99.9 99.5 100 99 99 1,580 157,379 105 108.8 108.8 108.8 108.8 108.8 330 35,904 EEI PREF B FGEN PREF G 101 102 104 104 102 102 7,650 781,048 990 1,000 1,000 1,000 1,000 1,000 500 500,000 GTCAP PREF A JFC PREF A 980 990 990 990 980 980 60 59,000 MWIDE PREF 4 97.5 99.5 99.8 99.8 99.7 99.7 3,800 378,990 100.1 101 100.4 100.9 100.4 100.9 700 70,300 PNX PREF 3B PNX PREF 4 970 985 970.5 985 968 985 1,010 979,215 1,061 1,065 1,065 1,065 1,065 1,065 10 10,650 PCOR PREF 3A PCOR PREF 3B 1,086 1,095 1,099 1,099 1,086 1,087 2,165 2,352,195 SMC PREF 2F 76.5 77 76.5 76.5 76.5 76.5 610 46,665 75.5 76.5 76.5 76.5 76.5 76.5 4,700 359,550 SMC PREF 2H SMC PREF 2I 78.5 78.6 78.6 78.6 78.5 78.5 8,030 631,155 74.55 75.15 75.15 75.15 75.15 75.15 2,500 187,875 SMC PREF 2J SMC PREF 2K 74.5 74.9 74.5 74.9 74.5 74.9 109,500 8,161,550 TECH PREF B2D 54 58.35 58.4 58.4 58.4 58.4 20 1,168

PHIL. DEPOSITARY RECEIPTS ABS HLDG PDR 9.39 10.32 9.32 10.32 9.32 10.32 2,800 27,196 GMA HLDG PDR 11.52 11.84 11.88 11.88 11.3 11.86 2,100 24,012

WARRANTS TECH WARRANT 0.52 0.55 0.52 0.55 0.51 0.55 439,000 227,810

10,548,170 11,410,430 9,895,370 4,374,810 1,780 9,600 -455,840 2,327,171 -5,117,070 20,349,752 -3,109,600 -12,338,913 -6,495,860 43,000 25,698,755 2,966,681 -45,141 -79,373,550 16,600 -33,385,780 5,440 -8,450 -490,210 95,509 150,060 -167,427 1,744,052 -15,027,780 883,410 11,042,180 17,500 4,935,287 27,686,798 10,230 186,462,780 103,610 50,495,350 6,625,945 460,000 -187,602,065 -524,680 1,379,820 86,750 418,350 -146,290 32,364,888 32,500 113,580 30,700 -47,000 -6,900.00 1,270 4,500,093 -96,970 16,500 11,310 24,550 -1,287,806 -4,290 23,741,585 -39,314,768.50 -595,991 2,654,560 -12,390,600 -34,050 -55,810 -45,024 6,950 456,100 62,110 -3,400 464,570 94,780 -9,200,050 -226,532 4,820

SMALL & MEDIUM ENTERPRISES

CTS GLOBAL HAUS TALK ITALPINAS MERRYMART XURPAS

0.82 1.01 0.82 1.63 0.305

0.83 1.04 0.83 1.64 0.31

EXHANGE TRADE FUNDS FIRST METRO ETF

104.6

104.8

0.83 1.03 0.8 1.65 0.305

0.84 1.05 0.82 1.65 0.305

0.81 1.01 0.79 1.62 0.305

0.82 1.01 0.82 1.64 0.305

2,943,000 104,000 501,000 766,000 170,000

2,437,020 107,570 405,930 1,253,790 51,850

584 -15,844 70,420 -

104 105 104 104.8 20,210 2,115,247 -280,758

Banking&Finance BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Editor: Dennis D. Estopace • Tuesday, May 31, 2022

B3

No. of basic deposit accounts rose in Q4 ’21

By Bianca Cuaresma

ASIC deposit accounts (BDAs), or accounts which are intended to spur higher banking penetration in the country, increased in the fourth quarter of last year, data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) showed.

In a report last Monday, the central bank said the number of BDAs increased by 19 percent in the last three months of last year to 7.9 million compared to its volume in October to December of 2020 of 6.6 million.

Introduced in 2018, BDAs are accounts designed by the BSP to encourage more people to open bank accounts and promote financial inclusion. Among its key features include simplified know-your-customer (KYC) processes to open, no maintaining balance, no dormancy charges and 0-percent reserve re-

The dispensable

Call for passage of ‘ease of paying taxes’ law backed

B

@BcuaresmaBM

A

S employees, it is normal to hear from superiors the statement “No one is indispensable.” In simple words, it means that anyone can become unnecessary anytime and can lose his job.

Employees are at the disposal of the employers.

Employers can simply rotate their employees to different tasks whether the employee likes it or not. The employers know what will be good for their businesses and when the time comes that there is someone better than you, expect that you will be reassigned or worse, retired.

I am no exception to this when I was still employed. In our department where the turn-over rate was high, I was the only one who served the longest time, twenty years. Then change came. I was made to realize that I was not anymore fit to my role.

I was offered early retirement or be transferred to sales. I was so attached to my workplace to the point that I thought that I am irreplaceable.

I treated my workplace as my second home. But at that point in time, I was made to realize that there is no such thing as a permanent job.

I had a wrong misconception that loyalty to the company is a guarantee of security of tenure. Anyone in my position is sure to feel bad because of the feeling of being unwanted after serving for so long.

To make the long story short, I accepted the offer and I was able to make good my selling career for five years before calling it quits. Because of my selling experience, now I have my own business. When I was apprehensive before, later I was happy to become dispensable.

Here are some tips for the future dispensable employees.

1. Make your job a training ground. After getting the job you want, make sure to give your best and at the same time, learn from your experience and from your other colleagues. You will have an idea on how things work.

Do not have the mindset of making a routine of just reporting to work from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. I have learned from my former job and my current business is the result of the knowledge I have from my former job. Be an expert in your current and future roles and use it when you decide to have your own business.

2. Save and invest. As early as your first salary, make it a point to save as much as possible. Financial experts tell us that we save at least twenty percent. If you can make it higher, the better. I managed to save fifty percent since I was single that time. I lived with my parents and I have less expenses.

My only expenses were transportation, groceries and a portion of

By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie

Edmund Lao

personal finance my income for my mother. I do not buy lunch because I bring my “baon.”

When my savings account grew, I transferred some to investments to grow it further. As I was young then, I had time as my friend. Time was on my side so I took advantage of it. That was also the reason why 25 years later, I was not afraid to be dispensable.

A lot of people are afraid because they have no savings to back them up when they quit. Retirement is not a factor of age but of net worth. The more money you have at an early age, the earlier you can retire.

3. Have a side hustle while employed. As the current cost of living is high, it is not enough that you have only one source of income.

While employed, try to search and study other sources of income. Make sure that your side hustle does not interfere with your work load. Start small and grow it gradually.

When the time comes that the income from your side hustle is stable and is higher than that of your job, you may want to go full time. As an example, my son, who is a first-year college student, has a small online selling business. I was observing his activity and I was surprised to know that his current average monthly income beats that of an employee.

He earns his income at zero stress level. If he can make his business stable, then he does not need to be employed anymore. From him I learned this: Find the things you love to do and if possible, monetize it.

4. Change of mindset. There is nothing permanent in this world. Everything moves forward. Just think of your job as an education. We have the primary level, secondary level and tertiary level and after that, we hunt for a job.

At all levels we graduate. Maybe we can call our job as quaternary level of education so that parting away from it will not be a sad moment but a step to the next level, like being a business owner. A change in mindset is all we need.

Do not be afraid of being dispensable. Just like old age, it will come.

We just need to prepare for it. As the saying goes, “It wasn’t raining when Noah built the Ark.” Edmund Lao is a registered financial planner of RFP Philippines. To learn more about personalfinancial planning, attend the 95th RFP program in May 2022. To inquire, e-mail info@rfp.ph or text at 0917-6248110.

T

HE call by foreign and domestic business groups to pass the proposed “Ease of Paying Taxes” bill has received “strong” backing from House Committee on Ways and Means Chairman Joey Sarte Salceda.

In a statement, Salceda said the passage of the measure will enable incoming Finance Secretary Benjamin E. Diokno to pursue his digitalization and modernization priorities for the tax agencies.

“We can do much in Congress; but we also need the motive force of the Department of Finance (DOF) on fiscal reforms. So, I hope Secretary Diokno will prioritize pushing for the Ease of Paying Taxes Act,” Salceda said.

The lawmaker added he guarantees that the House of Representatives “will almost certainly approve it again next time” noting that incoming Speaker [Ferdinand Martin G.] Romualdez was keen on the passage of that bill as Majority Leader.

“But the Senate often acts on fiscal reforms only when there is executive support,” Salceda said.

The lawmaker explained that he believes the bill, if enacted into law, will help Diokno “modernize the labyrinthine tax administration procedures by simplifying tax compliance, removing redundant and obsolete tax requirements, and lifting restrictions that prevent taxpayers from complying with tax laws remotely.”

Top of the list

IN a letter to the Senate dated May 18, 2022, chambers of commerce and business groups, including the Financial Executives Institute of the

quirement for the bank. BSP Circular 992 also said the opening amount should be no more than P100 and the maximum balance should be not more than P50,000.

“Should the depositor exceed the P50,000 maximum balance, the bank should convert the basic deposit account to a regular deposit account,” the Circular read.

The BDA was created to meet the needs of the unbanked and lowincome sector and foster greater financial inclusion.

“This account will enable Fili-

Philippines, requested the passage of several bills that have already been passed or approved at the Lower Chamber and just require the Senate’s counterpart approval.

The Ease of Paying Taxes bill, which Salceda principally authored, was atop the list of measures proposed in the letter.

The letter was signed by the American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines, Australian-New Zealand Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines and the Bankers Association of the Philippines. Other signatories include: Canadian Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines; European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines; Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines; IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines; Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Philippines Inc.; Korean Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines Inc.; Makati Business Club; Management Association of the Philippines; Philippine Association of Multinational Companies Regional Headquarters Inc.; and, the Semiconductor and Electronics Industries in the Philippines Foundation Inc. “You need a pro-taxpayer tax reform before we can enact other tax measures that will result in higher taxes or higher compliance. You want people to find it easy to pay taxes first, before you collect more taxes.

That’s why the EOPT [Ease of Paying Taxes law] is crucial,” Salceda said.

“And it is even more crucial given issues such as the Megaworld Corp. incident, which made evident the need for taxpayer rights protection.”

Burden eased

THE lawmaker also explained that

pinos, especially the unserved and underserved, to receive and make payments, as well as have a facility for store of value,” the BSP Circular read.

“It will have the basic functionalities that will characterize ease, accessibility, convenience and reasonable cost for both banks and customers.”

As of the latest BSP data, 138 banks are now offering BDAs. “Since ownership of an account is an important first step to perform digital payments, BDAs support BSP’s mutually reinforcing goals of financial inclusion and payments

at its core, ease of paying taxes is the most important ease of doing business proposal pending in Congress.

“Taxes are often the hardest part of doing business. So, you lift that difficulty, you ease much of the burden of businesses, especially small ones.”

The EOPT Act, which was transmitted to the Senate in September last year, proposes to amend the National Internal Revenue Code (as amended) by introducing administrative reforms that will simplify tax compliance and strengthen taxpayer rights.

The proposal gives the Bureau of Internal Revenue the power to create taxpayer classifications relative to the following: capacity to comply with tax rules and regulations; amount and type of tax paid; gross sales and/or receipts as well as inflation; volume of business, wage and employment levels; and, similar economic and financial factors.

Simplified rules

THE proposed EOPT bill also calls for the implementation of simplified tax rules and regulations for ease of compliance.

To simplify administration of the value-added tax scheme, the proposed EOPT law seeks to eliminate the distinction between the documentation and basis of sales as against services subject to VAT. At present, sales subject to VAT should be evidenced by invoices while services subject to VAT should be covered by official receipts. The EOPT bill makes the basis and documentation uniform to just be VAT invoices.

The EOPT law also proposes to add a provision that the P3-million VAT threshold, which was increased

digitalization,” the Central Bank said in its statement.

In November last year, the BSP issued regulatory relief measures to encourage more banks to offer a BDA. In January 2022, the BSP issued Frequently Asked Questions to provide additional guidance and clarifications on the regulatory framework for BDAs. Earlier this year, the BSP said regular deposit accounts rise to 83.1 million as of end-June 2021. This is 3 million higher from its level in end-2020.

by Republic Act 10963 (Train Law), may be adjusted to its present value not later than January 31, 2021, and every three years after, based on the consumer price index published by the Philippine Statistics Authority.

“This would allow small businesses to grow without worrying about having to register for VAT if they are still unable to,” Salceda said.

Digitalization process

THE EOPT bill also proposes to allow the payment of the taxes before they are due. This impliedly allows payment of tax not necessarily simultaneous with the filing of the return.

Salceda said he sees the proposed EOPT law is aligned with Diokno’s priority of digitalization of the taxpaying process.

To allow full digitalization of the taxpayer experience, the EOPT bill proposes to delete various provisions in the Tax Code that require taxes to be paid in the Bureau of Internal Revenue offices or banks within the jurisdiction of the taxpayer’s legal residence, principal place of business or principal office, thereby giving taxpayers payment flexibility.

The proposed EOPT bill also seeks to introduce provisions on taxpayers’ rights in the Tax Code and create a taxpayers’ advocate office.

Salceda said that “by design, we really had small and medium taxpayers in mind when we were crafting this proposal.”

“The paperwork, face-to-face contact with tax authorities, audit issues, and compliance costs of MSMEs will dramatically reduce as a result of EOPT,” he said. “The removal of the need for the annual P500 taxpayerregistration fee alone will be savings for the smallest of businesses.”

Rates sought for T-bills deemed ‘unacceptable’

By Bernadette D. Nicolas @BNicolasBM

T

HE Bureau of the Treasury raised P10 billion out of its P15 billion offering as the auction committee decided to reject bids for 364-day Treasury bills (Tbills) as investors demanded “unacceptable rates.”

The Treasury fully awarded the bids for 91-day and 182-day T-bills as rates ended up near the secondary market benchmark rates.

National Treasurer Rosalia V. De Leon told reporters they fully awarded bids for both 91-day and 182-day tenors as they “saw rates declined amid healthy demand and compressed bids close to secondary levels.”

“In contrast, full rejection for 364-day with tepid demand and unacceptable rates as market provide buffers for rate advances as hinted by the BSP [Bangko Sentra l ng Pilipinas] and another aggressive 50bps [basis points] by the Fed [US Federal Reserve] to cool down inflation,” De Leon added.

Had the Treasury fully awarded bids for the 364-day T-bills, the rates would have averaged 2.716 percent, higher by 67.6bps from the comparable secondary market benchmark rate for the tenor at 2.04 percent.

The 91-day T-bills fetched an

average rate of 1.46 percent, up by 0.7 basis points from the Bloomberg Valuation Service (BVAL) Reference Rate for the tenor at 1.453 percent.

For t he 182- d ay T-bills, the average rate reached 1.812 percent, climbing by 4.4 basis points from BVAL rate for the tenor at 1.768 percent.

The auction attracted P42.88 billion in bids, making it nearly thrice oversubscribed.

For this month, the Treasury is set to borrow P250 billion from the domestic debt market, of which P175 billion is expected to come

from auctioning off Treasury Bonds and another P75 billion through selling T-bills.

As of end-March, the national government’s outstanding debt has hit a new record-high of P12.68 trillion as it resorted to more borrowings after revenue collections remained weak while government spending grew.

T he national government’s debt-to-GDP ratio has also risen to a 17-year-high at 63.5 percent, above the internationally recommended 60-percent threshold by multilateral lenders for emerging markets like the Philippines. It is also the highest since the country’s debt-to-GDP ratio hit 65.7 percent in 2005 under the Arroyo administration.

$400M ADB loan seen to further boost PHL capital market, long-term financing

T

HE A sian Development Bank (ADB) announced the approval of a $400-million policy-based loan to help the Philippine government deepen domestic capital markets and increase the supply of long-term financing in the country, especially for infrastructure development.

In a statement on Monday, the multilateral lender said the newlyapproved loan will help build an

efficient domestic debt market and increase institutional participation, especially from insurance and pension funds. The growth of insurance and pension sectors is seen to drive economic growth and contribute to poverty reduction.

The policy-based loan “Support to Capital Market-Generated Infrastructure Financing” ProgramSubprogram 2” is also expected to create an enabling environment to

launch a wider range of investment products suited for long-term investors, according to the Manilabased lender.

Having more supply of longterm finance will help address the country’s infrastructure financing gap, estimated at roughly P2 trillion ($40 billion) a year up to 2030, the ADB said.

“As the Philippines steers its economy towards sustainable and

resilient growth after the devastating Covid-19 pandemic, it will require various sources of longterm financing to support the recovery of its industries and micro-, small and medium-sized enterprises; provide social protection; and, fund its infrastructure development priorities,” ADB Principal Financial Sector Specialist for Southeast Asia Stephen Schuster said. “A deeper, more diversified

investor base can help ease fiscal constraints.”

Moreover, the ADB pointed out there is a huge potential in tapping the country’s pension funds and insurance sector for long-term funds since they have long investment horizons and low leverage.

“Pension funds and the insurance sector currently account for a small portion of the Philippines’ domestic capital market, with

their combined volume equivalent to 12 percent of gross domestic product compared to 30 percent in Thailand and almost 80 percent in Malaysia,” the ADB said.

“These investors can offer better debt pricing and longer maturities in local currency and are less likely to sell or retreat during short-term market corrections,” the multilateral lender added.

Bernadette D. Nicolas

B4

Sustainabl

A BusinessMirr

Tuesday, May 31, 2022 | www.businessmirror.com.ph

Coming together for sustainable tourism

The “Sapot ni Ric,” a web-like canopy that was built to connect the limestone rocks.

Text and photos

by Bernard Testa

A

CRESTED honey buzzard is seen from a distance, one of the many things Masungi Georeserve, located in Baras, Rizal, has to offer to the those who are looking for an adventure. That adventure includes a four-hour trek inside the limestone park situated at the foot of the Sierra Madre.

According to a recent study conducted by a group of researchers and experts in the Masungi Georeserve, the sighting of the Oriental Honey Buzzard (with the scientific name Pernis Ptilorhynchus) is rare.

“In fact we have only been able to clearly document this raptor species only twice,” said Renz Perez, Communications and Project Associate of Masungi Georeserve Foundation (MGF).

Romeo Delasada, 48, is an Aeta-Dumagat who works as a tour guide inside MGF said medicinal plants abound in the area. On a lucky day, visitors can also catch a glimpse of rare breeds of eagles and birds.

One of the best parts of the park is scaling the Sapot ni Ric and Sawa where you can enjoy the 600 meter above sea-level view of the

A crested honey buzzard makes a rare appearance at the Masungi Georeserve.

Laguna lakeshore areas, the Sierra Madre and the nearby Bundok ng Susong Dalaga.

In the middle part of the forest almost halfway through the fourhour trek, you can see a cut Dungon tree, a hardwood tree endemic to the Sierra Madre.

"We could hear the chainsaws of the illegal loggers. This made us cry because before, we could hear the chirping of the birds. But now, all you can see are the remnants of Dungon trees which have tell-tale signs of being cut by these illegal loggers,” he said.

World fame for conservation

“For conservation leadership is everything,” shared Billie Dumaliang, a conservationist and Trustee of the MGF. She welcomed the change in the administration. In fact, after working as a conservationist for five years she learned that one the best tools in conservation is to engage the leaders in government.

She said that in this world of uncertainty, “I think I know how to adapt, anticipate change and be ready for it. That’s something environmentalists should embrace to face the challenges of the future.”

Speaking at the recent World

Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), at the Marriott Hotel, she said that although nervous, “we were able to speak our mind, to say, that there is a lot of pressure, I felt very happy we were given a chance.”

Fighting on the ground

The Masungi Georeserve has been the site of much illegal activities.

In 2016, it was reported that some land grabbers, with the help of a private army, tried to encroach on the property. They sought police and government help through the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) these requests fell on deaf ears.

In 2017 the late DENR Secretary Gina Lopez and the Masungi Georeserve Foundation Inc. signed a memorandum of agreement covering the 2,798 hectares of land situated inside the Upper Marikina River Basin Protected Landscape (UMRBPL).

The UMRBPL, in accordance with the passage of the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System or ENIPAS Act, was declared a protected area in 2018.

Dumaliang related that a number of illegal resorts had sprouted inside the watershed area, adding that this might have a negative im-

A view of the Sierra Madre from Sapot ni Ric.

Bundok ng Susong Dalaga can be seen from Sapot ni Ric and is one of the areas being eyed by the quarry companies.

pact on the ecosystem.

“We are here in this karst limestone ecosystem which is made up rocks, forest and a unique biodiversity. It is very sensitive to our hydrogeological system. Whatever you do in the watershed, especially large quarrying, mining, the construction of resorts, will have an impact on the karst ecosystem. Actually it might sound that it is huge already but the additional 430 hectares to the MGF protected area is actually small. There should at least be 3,000 hectares but in the context of karst ecosystem, trees, wildlife, bats, snails and birds should be allowed to live free of human disturbance,” she said.

She claimed that people holding government positions have built structures inside the protected areas without shame. “They were building reservoirs for swimming pools where water is supposedly for the use of the community not for recreation. The existing dams were built to control water after the Ondoy disaster, imagine it is a critical watershed.”

protect and conserve our natural resources, not to exploit them.”

“Sometimes the government forgets this because of the personalities or the interests involved.

And then there is this issue about personal values and culture. If you have the right values, you will know that there is a connection between the people and the environment,” she said.

Prior to the pandemic, MGP welcomed visitors through their booking of advance tours. Since they wanted to preserve the limestone part, which is part of the karst terrain, the park only entertained a maximum of 10 visitors a day back in 2015. Now they can accommodate up to five groups or 15 to 20 people a day.

“Because it is outdoor, everything is pre-booked, low volume, it wasn’t hard for us to adjust, when the government started issuing different restrictions. in short they adapt and reinvent and they sustain the tourism to keep it alive not just for the MGF but for the community,” she said.

Sustainable tourism

Come Together

Dumaliang reminded the government that their mandate is “to safeguard for the Filipino people,

Dumaliang strongly believes that tourism and the environment can co-exist. It not a trade-off between

the two, it is a myth to sacrifice the environment just to earn profit.

This is how they stood out during the recent WTTC forum. Low volume tourism can sustain the preservation of the environment.

She adds that while there are departments (in the government) that can talk about industries and economy, there is only one department that can address wildlife, about the communities that depend on wildlife and its environment. This department can can fight for conservation and threats and thinking that nature and conservation can also become an investment not a liability.

There is a multiplier effect on tourism as it will generate jobs for forest rangers from the nearby barangays. Local Aeta-Dumagats of the Sierra Madre can also be tapped as part of the ranger and tour guides.

“We strongly hope that the next DENR secretary will become a voice, someone who will be able to carry out its mandate. I truly believe that conservation tourism and other sustainable enterprises based on nature can help uplift people from poverty,” Dumaliang said.

GOING GREEN WITH HOTEL 101

By Anne Ruth Dela Cruz

L

OCATION, Convenience. Wifi. These are the necessities that Hotel 101 offers to their guests. Soon, the hotel will be adding another word to this list and that word is sustainable.

Hotel 101- Manila is a Department of Tourism (DOT) and Bureau of Quarantine accredited multipleuse hotel in Manila where guests can stay in a comfortable and clean environment. The hotel follows strict disinfection and cleaning protocols, offering a safe and happy stay.

Recently Gel B. Gomez, Hotel 101 General Manager, attended the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Global Summit that was held in Manila last April and committed to adopt the “Hotel Sustainability Basics,” a globally recognized and coordinated set of criteria that all hotels should implement as a minimum to drive responsible travel and tourism.

“Sustainable tourism is very much needed after the pandemic.

We really support it. This is something that we can give to the next generation and tourism will play a very, very big part in sustainability, the whole concept of it,” Gomez said in an interview.

12 actions

Developed by the industry for the industry, it highlights 12 actions which are fundamental to hotel sustainability and will help raise the base level of sustainability across the entire hospitality industry by providing every hotel a starting point on their sustainability journey.

The criteria focus on actions which are fundamental to hotel

sustainability and address tourism’s impact on the planet across a spectrum of critical issues. These criteria include actions to measure and reduce energy use, measure and reduce water use, identify and reduce waste, and measure and reduce carbon emissions.

It also includes a linen reuse program, use of green cleaning products, the elimination of plastic straws, stirrers and single-use plastic water bottles, the implementation of bulk dispensers, as well as measures to benefit local communities.

While Hotel 101-Manila was one of the hotels that served as a quarantine facility for overseas Filipino workers during the pandemic, Gomez related that the hotel made use of this time to train their personnel on behavioral and customer service standards injected with sustainability programs.

“Sustainability should always be part of some project. It is the key result area of each department that should come up with their own sustainability project,” Gomez said.

Promotions

To show that they are serious in pushing for sustainable tourism, Gomez related that this year alone, the hotel management promoted six staff which included the Head of Public Relations, Head of Sales, three Hotel Managers and one Housekeeping Duty Manager.

Along with their promotion, each leader will have their own key program to head. The Hotel Manager for Hotel 101 – Manila Ryann Dimayuga is the key person for sustainability. The Head of Public Relations Brian Ong is the one in charge for branding while the Hotel

Hotel 101 Group General Manager Gel Gomez and Hotel 101 – Manila Hotel Manager Ryann Dimayuga together with Deputy Commandant for Administration, PCG VADM Rolando Lizon Punzalan and Commander of Marine Environment Protection Command, CG RADM Robert N Patrimonio after signing a memorandum of agreement on their partnership for the Clean up of Manila Bay.

Manager in Makati is in charge of compliance. The Hotel Manager of Jinjiang in Ortigas heads the training and development program.

“We are a three-star hotel and we do not have those key departments unlike in other hotels. But being a midclass hotel doesn’t stop us in offering as much as we can to our employees, to our stakeholders, to our clients so we still wanted to have those key departments and one of which is our Green Team,” she explained.

“After the pandemic, everyone wanted to do something with the environment. The awareness, the consciousness, the sustainability is much felt after the pandemic.

We were given the time to stop and assess, evaluate and to give back to the community. I think sustainable tourism is very much needed after the pandemic and we really support it,” Gomez added.

Green Team

The Green Team was established during the hotel’s strategic planning last January and the team, with the support of the management committee, has already initi-

ated a number of projects. One such project is the plastic bottle segregation campaign where the hotel has a partnership with a nongovernment organization. So far, the hotel has donated 160 bags of plastic water bottles which will be recycled again for reuse.

The hotel will also launch a quarterly Manila Bay coastal cleaning up campaigns organized by the Philippine Coast Guard. Since Hotel 101 also has a hotel in Iloilo, they will launch projects, such as tree planting programs, benefitting the communities around their hotel at Injap Tower Hotel in Iloilo City..

“Hotel 101 is also a member of the Pasay City Alliance of Tourism Advocates which is a new association exclusive for Pasay City based hospitality firms and it closely collaborates with the Pasay City local government. One of our programs is that we hire employees from Pasay City,” Gomez said.

The hotel has also adopted energy saving programs where all the lights they use are now LED lights.

The perimeter areas now use solar lights that can last for 10 hours. The

Hotel 101 Group Community Ride with bike influencers and enthusiasts were welcomed by DOT NCR Regional Director Sharlene Batin at Fort Santiago, Intramuros.

Dewaste Solutions pick up water bottles from Hotel 101 Group for recycling

hotel that is being built in Boracay will have solar panels installed on the roof top. It has also done away with single flush toilets and employees make use of water dispensers.

Giveaways

Other projects include the purchase of environmentally friendly corporate giveaways, participation in efforts to save the coral reefs, among others.

“We are also into promoting the country’s cultural heritage also through sustainable means. We had a bike ride tour that brought us from

our hotels in Ortigas, Makati, Pasay and to Intramuros. We will also be promoting the products of the various provinces in the hotel like the coffee from Cagayan de Oro,” she said.

For now, Hotel 101 will be busy with the accreditation process to be recognized as a sustainable hotel.

Some hotels in the country have already been certified as such.

“We have already submitted our application for accreditation and we are just waiting for the next steps. It’s high time for this and it is very inclusive,” Gomez said.

le Tourism

ror Special Feature

www.businessmirror.com.ph | Tuesday, May 31, 2022 B5

Okada Manila receives 3rd Forbes Travel Guide Five Star Award F

ORBES Travel Guide, the only globally recognized rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants and spas, has awarded Okada Manila yest another Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star for its 2022 Star Award. This is the 3rd year Manila’s grand icon has received this coveted accolade.

To share the news. Okada invited friends from the media as well as key opinion leaders to the property’s newest restaurant at the Coral Wing. There, guests were able to enjoy the spectacular Manila Bay sunset and the elegant Filipino inspired interiors of the venue.

With over 990 exceptional accommodations, many amazing restaurants, award winning spas, and various other extraordinary amenities, all complimented by exceptional Pilipino hospitality, it is no mean feat that Okada Manila has achieved the FTG 5 star rating for three straight years. Okada SVP for Hotel Operations Ivaylo S. Ivanov says, “Our 3T campaign, our industry leading health and safety protocols lauded by the industry, were embraced by our amazing team members and we were able to provide exceptional service to our

L-R: Director for Premium Marketing Joe Sam, Director for Corporate Marketing and Communications Vic Galzote, VP for Strategic Marketing Wendy Ni, SVP for Hotel Operations Ivaylo S. Ivanov, VP for Sales and Marketing Cielo Reboredo, VP for F&B Andreas Balla, President and COO Byron Yip, VP for New Business Development Sumire Kamura, and Senior Manager for Sustainabilty and ESG Donna Patricia Manio

guests during the pandemic,” Forbes Travel Guide, a worldrenowned authority in genuine Five-Star service has over 900 stringent items on their list, 75 percent of which focus on the guest experience and the rest on the facility.

“Indeed, things are looking up and there’s no better way to celebrate than to highlight an accomplishment that’s not just for

Okada Manila. I tis also for the Philippine and hospitality sector. This milestone is proof that the Phillippines could be, and is, world class,” shares Okada Manila President and COO Byron Yip. Opportune time This 5-star rating comes at an opportune time as the WTTC Global Summit that happened in Manila the week before showed the world

the Philippines is now open for tourism and it is time to rediscover travel.

“Our doors are open and Okada Manila is fully ready and excited to add to the exciting stories of our tourists, from both near and far,” adds Ivanov.

“Travel has come back strongly and the resilient hos-

pitality industry is creatively rallying to accommodate the increase occupancy demand for most regions,” shares Hermann Elger, CEO of Forbes Travel Guide. “While the industry faces some lingering issues, the 2022 award winners proved ready for

those challenges and more, demonstrating the best that luxury hospitality has to offer.”

Touted as Manila’s grand icon and the jewel in Manila’s crown, the 44-hectare Okada Manila is known for its top tier facilities and services.

Quickly gaining its popularity as a premier destination for hospitality, entertainment, and gaming, the integrated resort has 993 exceptional accommodations ranging from 55-sqm deluxe rooms to 1,400-sqm villas complimented by extraordinary amenities such as the Retail Boulevard with its more than 50 shops, the one-of-a-kind Cove Manila nightclub and indoor beach club, The Gardens by Manila Bay, more than 21 dining options, a 3,000-sqm spa, and the world’s largest multi-color dancing and musical fountain.

Located just 10 minutes away from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Okada Manila is a few hours of air travel from neighboring China, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, and Hong Kong. It sets the new gold standard for five-star luxury with its many distinct innovations that combine advanced technology, top-class amenities, environment-friendly architectural planning, and world-class entertainment options, all delivered with the kind of exemplary service that personifies the unique blend of Japanese hospitality and Filipino warmth.

B6

Tuesday, May 31, 2022 • Editor: Gerard S. Ramos

Art

BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Basketball, ‘taho’ and going hyperlocal VISUAL artist Jappy Agoncillo showcasing his adidas City Shop “Manila Hoops” tee design for women.

The collaboration is part of adidas Philippines’s hyperlocal initiative aimed to celebrate and empower Filipino talents.

Today’s Horoscope

By Eugenia Last

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Colin Farrell, 46; Brooke Shields, 57; Tom Berenger, 73; Clint Eastwood, 92.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY: Put a plan in place and set off on an adventure. Take the initiative, set high standards and keep the momentum going until you are happy with your progress. Don’t let anything come between you and what you want. Take care of the paperwork, and get approval first to avoid setbacks. Expand your vision by participating in events that encourage you to be unique.

Your numbers are 7, 18, 20, 29, 32, 38, 47.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Think big, but pay attention to detail, be precise and finish what you start. Don’t let anyone stand in your way or disrupt your plans. Carry on alone, and don’t think twice about what others pursue. Separate your emotions from your responsibilities. HHHH

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Keep your plans to yourself until you are sure you will execute your intentions successfully. If you say you will do one thing and then do another, you will be harshly criticized. Don’t jeopardize your position.

HHH

A

CARTOONISH subject with blue complexion dons an orange bucket hat with shorts to match. He dashes past while spinning a basketball on his left index finger, as a cup of taho hovers on his head.

Meanwhile, three other vibrant-skinned characters, this time women, personify Manila culture in one frame, featuring street food, street art, and—again— basketball.

These are the designs produced by visual artist Jappy Agoncillo for the new City Shop “Manila Hoops” Tee Collection of adidas Philippines. The muralist and illustrator is the latest Filipino artist tapped for the project, following street artists Quiccs and Egg Fiasco.

The “Manila Hoops” Collection honors the country’s love for basketball. It’s also part of adidas Philippines’s hyperlocal initiative, designed to celebrate and empower Filipino talents. “[Collaborating with local artists] has been a proven formula for adidas Philippines,” JD Cortez, adidas Philippines brand communications and sports marketing manager, said in a recent interview. He added they are excited to be working with Agoncillo as the brand continues to highlight local artists on their global platform.

For his part, Agoncillo is no stranger to brand collaborations. His dynamic, comic book-inspired illustrations, which often feature elements of Filipino culture, have proven to be in demand for tie-ups with local and international brands. His murals can be found as well in streets, bars, restaurants and other establishments here and abroad.

Agoncillo said adidas Philippines granted him creative freedom for the “Manila Hoops” project. His only requirement: to create a design that speaks of Manila.

“I thought of the quintessential Manila experience that all Filipinos will be able to relate to,” the artist said, pointing to the ubiquity of basketball and street food across the country. “Whether or not you play basketball, you know someone who does. Also, street food—those are things that all of us have experienced.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Get your facts straight before passing along information.

Protect your possessions, reputation and position. It’s OK to dream, but don’t get carried away with something that isn’t feasible. Take care of an emotional misunderstanding quickly and with diplomacy. HHH

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Keep your reactions minimal. Listen to reason, and be practical regarding money and the changes you want to make. Look for an original way to make your skills profitable. A discussion will offer insight into what’s possible. HHH

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Concentrate on getting things done. Don’t offer information that someone can use against you. Rely on your strength, courage and experience to outmaneuver anyone who tries to compete with you. Avoid health risks. HHHH

You can’t escape it. It’s everywhere.”

Thus shown in Agoncillo’s designs are elements of Filipino casual cuisine, such as taho, isaw, Betamax and kwek-kwek. He also incorporated key landmarks such as the Manila City Skyline, iconic City Hall, and Roxas Boulevard.

In terms of execution, Agoncillo strived for a modern and futuristic look but still grounded on his retro style.

“You know how 1990s retro is back? That’s because everyone’s starting to realize it’s very timeless; it’s the classics of our era,” he said. “I wanted the shirts to feel classic, that 20 years, 30 years from now, if someone puts it on, it will still look new. I wanted the designs to never look old.”

The adidas City Shop x Jappy Agoncillo “Manila Hoops” Collection men’s design comes in black, dark blue, and red colorways, while the women’s design is available in white and black. Retailing for P1,550 a

piece, the new tee collection was launched last week and is available at adidas Brand Center Glorietta, the brand’s largest store in the country, which opened last year.

“The essence of the City Shop is to be able to showcase local creations exclusive to the Filipino market, whether they’re Philippine-themed products or products made by local creators,” Cortez said. “If you have balikbayans or foreign guests, they can come to the City Shop and get something exclusive and limited like the ‘Manila Hoops’ tee collection.”

Cortez added that adidas is open to expanding its scope of collaboration beyond visual artists and themes outside of basketball.

“As a creator brand, it’s really for signs of the times,” he said. “Whatever the consumer dictates, whether it be pop culture, crypto, all that, that’s something that would always be an open discussion with adidas.” n

KCC jumpstarts PHL-Kor collaboration with mural AFTER Korean Culture and Information Service’s (KOCIS) Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines (KCC) opened its doors to the public on March 25, it also unveiled its resolution to promote the cultural exchange between Korea and the Philippines. In line with its goals for 2022, KCC in partnership with Metropolitan Museum created a project which showcases the culture collaboration of Korea and the Philippines through the creative mind of mural artist Jappy Agoncillo.

For KCC, the mural is a collaboration and friendship between Korea and the Philippines, incorporating representative and national symbols from both countries. Since the center’s building is a harmonization of traditional and modern Korean elements, the mural

also harmonizes traditional concepts with contemporary art. It also serves as an aesthetic feature for guests where they can take their pictures.

Jappy Agoncillo wanted to incorporate the similarities and friendship of Filipinos and Koreans, and thus included national symbols from both countries.

“For the color palette, I really want to look at the Korean traditional elements and colors, especially the palace colors. I really want to have those strong colors represent[ed] in the mural,” he said.

The mural stands as a symbol of KCC’s goals for the years to come, a reminder that it now serves as the bridge between the cultural exchange and collaboration between Korea and the Philippines.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Walk away from anything or anyone causing stress. Consider putting together some changes that will make you happy. Take nothing for granted or leave anything to chance. Go after what you want without delay. Personal improvement is favored. HH

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Learn from experience, and carry on with discipline and the intent to make things happen. Channel your energy into doing the best job possible by using the latest and greatest methods and technology. You will reap what you sow. HHHHH

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Don’t let a change someone makes throw you off your game. Assess the situation and adapt your plans to reach your goal. A unique idea will separate you from the masses and give you the edge you need to excel. HHH

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Verify information received before passing it along or relying on it to help advance. A change at home will give you more space to get things done.

Spread out and work diligently to conquer your dreams.

Put your energy where it counts. HHH

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Gather information and downsize your plans. Be creative in the way you assess what’s necessary.

Come up with a reasonable goal, and don’t stop until you are satisfied with the results. Love and romance are in the stars. HHH

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Observation will be crucial when dealing with a friend, relative or peer. Don’t feel you have to make a move if you aren’t ready. Consider your options and prepare appropriately for your next adventure. Do what feels right and best for you. HHHHH

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Put in the time and effort, and you will bring about positive change. Getting together with someone who makes you think and offers a unique perspective on life, love and happiness will lead to new beginnings. Love and self-improvement are encouraged. HH BIRTHDAY BABY: You are innovative, helpful and sensitive.

You are reticent and tactful.

‘feathered friends’ BY DAVE TABER AND LAURA MOLL The Universal Crossword/Edited by David Steinberg

ACROSS 1 15th-century Peruvians 6 Docs’ body?

9 Welsh dog breed 14 Protest walk 15 Official at a Pelicans game 16 Stand by for 17 Yoga posture 18 Distinct period 19 They surround Saturn 20 Jerry Maguire director 23 Online auction site 24 Musical mixture 28 Doctrine 31 Rapper Lil ___ X 32 Name hidden in “Danielle” 33 Crosshatched cereal 34 Moon Knight actor 38 Pear-shaped instrument 39 Positive particle, perhaps 40 Bear’s home 41 Love Story author 45 They’re right down your alley 46 Torn ___ (sports injury) 47 “___ the land of the free...”

48 50 52 54

Duck, like a question Sought-after partner Troglodyte’s home Illegal contact by Larry Bird, and a phonetic hint to 20-, 34- and 41-Across 60 Sorts (through) 63 ___ duck (weirdo) 64 Word before “call” or “contact” 65 Eye color, e.g.

66 Charge that may be flat 67 Demolishes 68 Price for your thoughts?

69 Super Bowl highlights, for some 70 Commentary pieces in the paper DOWN 1 Desktop with Apple’s M1 chip 2 Org. with rovers 3 Pull an all-nighter, say 4 Teen’s skin woe 5 Revealed in a support group 6 Venue for the Raptors or Penguins 7 Leniency 8 In the distance 9 Where a body is waxed?

10 11 12 13 21 22 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 33 35 36 37 42 43 44 49 51 52 53

Boo-boos Did laps, perhaps Eagles’ booking “___ a bird...”

Duck’s instrument in Peter and the Wolf Country next to Yemen State where the nene flies Not nice Docking spots Wedding locale, often Change up, as a bathroom floor Employee with perks, informally Mom’s mom Soccer shoe feature Cake level Monopolize Dog food brand The best policy, they say Prophet ___ cake (molten chocolate dessert) Alternative to laces Decide to join Like secret messages Mountain range of the 1-Across

55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62

Couch potato’s spot Prepare to leave the nest?

Exude Like relatively cheap textbooks More, to a minimalist Auto racing sponsor Anger Falcons follower, for one

Solution to today’s puzzle:

Show BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Editor: Gerard S. Ramos

• Tuesday, May 31, 2022

B7

‘Top Gun: Maverick’ wins Tom Cruise 1st $100 million opening

FROM left: Jak Roberto, Kylie Padilla and Rayver Cruz in Bolera.

Kylie Padilla makes prime-time comeback WHAT is a woman’s place in a male-dominated sport? She’s a trailblazer—one who challenges the norms of the society and shows the world that women can also excel in a man’s world.

Beginning May 30 in prime time, GMA Entertainment Group sets out to prove that women can rise to the top and become champions with hard work, skill and pure talent in its newest prime-time series, Bolera.

Starring multi-talented actress Kylie Padilla in her much-awaited showbiz comeback, she steps into the role of Joni, a billiard prodigy who is gifted with visual and spatial intelligence.

“I’m so happy na ito ’yung naging comeback show ko kahit hindi ako marunong mag-billiards. Nung sinabi sa akin na kaliwete si Joni, I took the challenge. I said okay, let’s go, let’s try. Mahirap siya nung una kasi I’m a right-handed person. I took everything into account, I trusted na kaya natin ‘to. Nung pinapanood ko naman, ang ganda. Thank you to everyone for helping me to get the character right, to get the form right.

Sobrang saya ko. I’m so proud of this show talaga,” says Kylie.

Johann Chua and Geona Gregorio are the game consultants and trainors of Kylie.

The show tells the story of Joni (Kylie), who was taught to play the sport by her former billiard champion father. After being accused of cheating, her father’s career crashes but it never hinders her from learning and becoming a master herself. When her father dies, it is up to her to support her family. Playing billiards is suddenly the last thing on her mind.

But dreams have a way of catching up with us, and Joni suddenly finds herself returning to the sport she first fell in love with.

Joining Kylie in the series are two of GMA’s brightest stars. Rayver Cruz takes the role of Miguel, a handsome and competitive billiard prodigy who will eventually become Joni’s opponent; and Jak Roberto is Toypits, Joni’s neighbor and childhood friend who has always had feelings for her.

Also in the cast are Gardo Versoza, Joey Marquez, Al Tantay, and Jaclyn Jose. Via Veloso, Sue Prado, David Remo, Ge Villamil and Luri Nalus make up the rest of the cast.

Directed by directors Dominic Zapata and Jorron Lee Monroy, Bolera is presented by GMA Entertainment Group led

by SVP Lilybeth G. Rasonable, VP for Drama Cheryl Ching-Sy, AVP for Drama Helen Rose Sese, program manager Dennis Joi K. Bentulan, and executive producer Arlene D. Pilapil.

Bolera airs at 8:50 pm after First Lady. Viewers abroad can also catch the program via GMA Pinoy TV. More information is available at www.gmanetwork.com.

F

By Lindsey Bahr The Associated Press

ORGET breaking the sound barrier: Tom Cruise just flew past a major career milestone.

The 59-year-old superstar just got his first $100 million opening weekend with Top Gun: Maverick.

In its first three days in North American theaters, the long-in-the-works sequel earned an estimated $124 million in ticket sales, Paramount Pictures said on Sunday. Including international showings, its worldwide total is $248 million.

It’s a supersonic start for a film that still has the wide-open skies of Memorial Day itself to rake in even more cash. According to projections and estimates, by Monday’s close, Top Gun: Maverick will likely have over $150 million.

“These results are ridiculously, over-the-top fantastic,” said Chris Aronson, Paramount’s president of domestic distribution. “I’m happy for everyone. I’m happy for the company, for Tom, for the filmmakers.”

Though undeniably one of the biggest stars in the world—perhaps even “the last movie star,” according to various headlines—Cruise is not known for massive blockbuster openings.

Before Maverick, his biggest domestic debut was in 2005, with Steven Spielberg’s War of the Worlds, which opened to $64 million. After that it was Mission: Impossible—Fallout with $61 million in 2018. It’s not that his films don’t make money in the long run: They just aren’t enormously frontloaded.

Top Gun: Maverick had an extremely long journey to get to the theaters. The sequel to the late Tony Scott’s Top Gun, which was released in 1986, was originally slated to open in the summer of 2020. Its marketing campaign technically started back in July 2019. The pandemic got in the way of those plans, however, and it was delayed several times. Directed by Joseph Kosinski, produced by Jerry Bruckheimer and coproduced and cofinanced by Skydance, the sequel reportedly cost $152 million to make.

But even as the months, and years, went by and many other companies chose to compromise on hybrid releases, Cruise and Paramount didn’t waver on their desire to have a major theatrical release. A streaming debut was simply not an option.

“That was never going to happen,” Cruise said in Cannes. And it is major, with 4,735 North American theaters (a record) showing Top Gun: Maverick. It also opened in 23,600 locations in 62 international markets. “This is one of the longest runways for a marketing campaign for any film ever. And it only served to create more excitement around the movie,” said Paul Dergarabedian, the senior media analyst for comScore. “This movie literally waited for the movie theater to come back.”

The build up has been just as flashy, with fighter-

jet-adorned premieres on an aircraft carrier in San Diego and at the Cannes Film Festival, where Cruise was also given an honorary Palme d’Or, and a royal premiere in London attended by Prince William and his wife Kate.

“The feeling you get when you watch this film with an audience, it’s pretty special,” Aronson said. “The first big screening we had, there was spontaneous applause during the movie.”

Reviews have been stellar, too, with the film notching a 97 percent on Rotten Tomatoes.

Audiences, who were 58 percent male, gave it an “A+” CinemaScore, according to exit polls.

The new film has Cruise reprising the role of Maverick, who returns to the elite aviation training program to train the next generation of flyers, including Miles Teller, Glen Powell, Monica Barbaro, Greg Tarzan Davis, Danny Ramirez, Lewis Pullman and Jay Ellis. Jennifer Connelly, Jon Hamm and Val Kilmer, reprising his role from the original, also star.

“This solidifies the notion that the movie theater is a singular and a vitally important outlet for people,” Dergarabedian said. “People are looking for a great escape from everything that’s going on in the world right now.”

Maverick is now among the top pandemic era openings, still led by Spider-Man: No Way Home with $260 million, followed by Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness with $187 million, and The Batman with $134 million.

Notably, Top Gun: Maverick is the only nonsuperhero movie in the bunch. It also attracted a wide swath of age groups to the theater. An estimated 55

percent of the audience was over 35.

“Superhero movies aren’t for everybody. This movie is for everyone, and that’s what sets it apart,” Aronson said. “The theatrical exhibition business has challenges ahead of it, but this is a shot in the arm for that.”

The Bob’s Burgers Movie was the only new release that dared go up against Top Gun. Released by 20th Century Studios and Disney, the animated pic earned $12.6 million from 3,425 locations. It opened in third place, behind Doctor Strange 2, which earned $16.4 million in its fourth weekend in theaters.

Top Gun will continue to essentially have the skies to itself until Jurassic World: Dominion opens on June 10.

“It has a really nice, open marketplace to play,” Dergarabedian said. “Tom Cruise has always been about consistency. His movies are about the marathon. This is the first movie of his that is sprinting to big box-office numbers. Here, he gets the sprint and the marathon.”

Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at US and Canadian theaters, according to comScore.

1. Top Gun: Maverick, $124 million 2. Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, $16.4 million 3. The Bob’s Burgers Movie, $12.6 million 4. Downton Abbey: A New Era, $5.9 million 5. The Bad Guys, $4.6 million 6. Sonic the Hedgehog 2, $2.5 million 7. Everything Everywhere All At Once, $2.5 million 8. The Lost City, $1.8 million 9. Men, $1.2 million 10. F3: Fun and Frustration, $1 million. n

Past winners support Mister International Philippines launch

FOUR former Mister International titleholders were in Manila recently for the launch of the new franchise of the national pageant, now under the wing of veteran pageant authorities headed by lawyer Manuel Deldio, who serves as president and national director, and his formidable team that includes Ameer Gamama, Mother J Samonte, Arvin Maceda, and Makoy Manlapaz.

Vietnam’s Trinh Van Bao (2018), the Philippines’s Mariano Flormata Jr. (2014), South Korea’s Lee Seung Hwan (2017), and Venezuela’s Jose Anmer Paredes (2013) were all smiles during the grand launch, what with the warm welcome they received from guests, pageant enthusiasts, and select members of the media.

Interestingly, Vietnam’s Trinh Bao was crowned

in Manila during the 13th edition of this prestigious international pageant. The 24-year-old charmer from Ho Chi Minh City gave Vietnam its second crown, first won by Ngô Tien Doan in 2008.

An established model and a fitness coach in his country, Trinh has extensive training in music, arts and drama, and he looks forward to pursue a career in acting after his extended reign is over.

With the little English that he knows, he told us: “I like to be a movie star, maybe Asia, maybe international also.” He is also a competitive athlete, citing soccer and swimming as his favorites. “I love beach, beach sports.”

South Korea’s Lee Seung Hwan, who won the title in 2017, was very generous in helping Mister Vietnam International in communicating with the members of the media present during the launch.

Lee, now 28, bested 35 other contestants from his batch who competed in Myanmar five years ago. He loves winter sports and is still bent on becoming a Sports Science professor one day in his native Korea.

Lee added that he loves the Philippines and hopes to travel to more places.

“Your country is beautiful—many islands, good food, beautiful people. No snow but still very okay; people are always smiling, people speak very good English, and really friendly. I am just happy to be

here, and hopefully I’ll be back soon.”

Mariano Flormata Jr. remains the only one from the Philippines to have been crowned Mister International. A member of the local police force, Flormata won in 2014 when the pageant was held in Korea. He explored show business for a short time using the screen name “Neil Perez” but put his focus back in police work under the Philippine National Police.

“I find satisfaction in being a police sergeant. It gives me both purpose and fulfilment. From time to time, I still accept invitations to grace events as a model, a guest or as a pageant judge. I am thankful that the organizers invited me to be part of the launch of this new organization that will choose our country’s representative to the next Mister International pageant. I hope that we can produce more international winners in the future,” Flormata shared.

Perhaps the most gorgeous among the former international pageant kings present during the launch, Venezuela’s Jose Anmer Paredes, now 32, has maintained his looks, physique and natural charm nine years after winning the title when the pageant was held in Indonesia.

“It is important that we focus on health and fitness, no matter how old we are,” he said, adding, “Mental

health is also something we should always care about, especially with what is happening to the world right now, with stress levels so high. We have to eat right, get enough rest and sleep, exercise, and just train our minds to look at the positive, the bright and the beautiful.”

We learned that Paredes has been based in Manila for some time now, and is already a successful real estate broker and agent. “I love the Philippines. It is my second home. It has so many similarities with Venezuela—the culture, the food, the people, and how we appreciate beauty and fun. My life has been beautiful in the Philippines.”

The new national organization has announced that applications are now open for the Mister International Philippines pageant. Mentally and physically fit Filipinos from 18 to 28 years old, at least 5’9” and who are advocates of sports, wellness and community services may apply through its web site.

Aside from sports and wellness, Deldio reiterated that the pageant will look for the “distinctively handsome” standard that will combine personality, fitness and winnability. “We are both hopeful and positive that we will have a very good Mister International Philippines this year that can best represent our country in the international pageant,” Deldio affirmed.

TOM CRUISE in Top Gun: Maverick, which opened as the No. 1 film in North America after pulling in estimated $124 million in ticket sales. Including international showings, its worldwide total is $248 million.

Meralco 3x3 Leg 2 champ

M

ERALCO completed an amazing comeback despite playing undermanned by pulling off a thrilling 18-17 win in overtime against Cavitex to emerge Leg 2 champion of the Philippine Basketball Association 3x3 Third Conference on Sunday.

The Bolts lost big man Maclean Sabellina in the early going of the title showdown at the Robinsons Las Piñas after aggravating the injury he suffered in the semifinals earlier, forcing the team to play the rest of the finals behind the trio of Alfred Batino, Joseph Sedurifa and Dexter Maiquez.

But the Bolts’ power never waned, battling back from a five-point deficit late in regulation to force overtime, before leaning on the game-winning deuce by Maiquez in claiming their third leg title overall under coach Patrick Fran.

“We gave everything we got and we drew strength from each other,” said Maiquez as the team celebrated winning the P100,000 prize money.

Batino and Sedurifa had seven points each to show the way for Meralco as the two instigated a late run after trailing 11-16 with 79 seconds to play.

The tough-playing Batino scored on a layup, before Sedurifa hit backto-back deuces to knot the count at 16 and pave the way for the extra period.

Bong Galanza put Cavitex on the hill by forcing his way inside, 17-16, but Sedurifa countered by bringing the ball outside following a quick pass from Batino and converted the winning basket.

Denice Villamor, meanwhile, nailed the game-winner to save the day for Barangay Ginebra in a 20-19 win over Terrafirma in the battle for third place.

Heat turn cold in Game Seven against Celtics

M

IAMI—Jimmy Butler followed up one amazing performance with another.

It just wasn’t enough for the Miami Heat.

The last shot of Butler’s season was a three-pointer that missed—and in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference finals, that’s the way most of the shots from deep went for the Heat.

Miami went 6 for 30 from long range on Sunday night, one of the big factors in their season-ending 100-96 loss to the Boston Celtics.

“When it ends, it ends in a thud,” Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said. “I just have so much incredible respect and love for everybody in the locker room and what everybody gave to this team. It’s such a memorable season and postseason.”

Butler was brilliant—47 points in Game 6 to extend the season, 35 points in Game 7 to give the Heat a chance at getting to a National Basketball Association (NBA) Finals matchup with the Golden State Warriors. He played every second of the finale.

“You can put him in that category of superstars,” Heat center Bam Adebayo said. “To me, he’s one of the best two-way guys in the league, hands down.”

This is how good Butler was: On a rough shooting night for the Heat, they still had a chance.

When the Heat made 3s at home this season, it was game over: Miami was 25-1 when shooting at least 37 percent from deep. When the Heat didn’t shoot that well, they went 11-14.

They were the epitome of how it’s truly a make-or-miss league. And if Butler had gotten one more 3 to fall—for the record, the Heat had no problem with his shot selection when he tried what would have been a go-ahead 3 with about 17 seconds left—they might have been headed to the NBA Finals.

“I thought it’d have been an incredible storyline, Jimmy to pull up and hit that 3,” Spoelstra said. “I love that about Jimmy. That was the right look. As it was leaving his hand, I thought for sure that was going down.

Good, clean look. It was definitely better than anything we could have designed. It’s just a shame that it didn’t end that way.”

Butler averaged 27.4 points and 7.4 rebounds in the playoffs. His assessment of those numbers: “Not good enough.” AP THE Boston Celtics raise the Eastern Conference trophy. AP

Sports

Hindley V 1st Aussie to triumph in Giro d’Italia

BusinessMirror

B8

| Tuesday, May 31, 2022 mirror_sports@yahoo.com.ph Editor: Jun Lomibao

JAI HINDLEY makes sure the victory is his this time. AP

PALACE, P.O.C. TO GRANT BONUSES TO MEDALISTS T

By Josef Ramos

HE Philippines may have lost the overall championship to host Vietnam in the recent 31st Southeast Asian Games but just the same, cash incentives are headed the Filipino medalists’ way from both Malacañang and the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC).

Sen. Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go announced on Monday that on top of the incentives provided by law, President Rodrigo Duterte will award additional bonuses to Filipino athletes who won medals in the Vietnam SEA Games.

In the same breadth, POC President Rep. Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino said the General Assembly affirmed on Monday the organization’s granting of financial incentives to the medalist athletes in the May 12 to 23 Games.

“The athletes will receive additional incentives from the President to further encourage them from excelling further in their chosen sports,” said Go, chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports.

Go praised Team Philippines for its remarkable performance in Hanoi

DUTERTE

GO

that netted the country a total of 227 medals consisting of 52 golds, 70 silvers and 105 bronzes.

They weren’t enough to topple host Vietnam, which exaggeratedly dominated the Games with a 205125-116 tally, but the haul strongly positioned the Philippines in fourth place overall—the best place for a national delegation outside of the country.

The medalists are scheduled to pay President Duterte a courtesy call in Malacañang at 6 p.m. on Tuesday and there, Go said, the Chief Executive will announce how much the athletes are going to receive for their accomplishments.

Tolentino said the assembly unanimously approved the granting of cash bonuses to the SEA Games medalists in Vietnam, but

TOLENTINO momentarily withheld specifics on the amount of incentives for gold, silver and bronze medalists.

“All medalists will be given a cash bonus within the week—after the POC has computed and audited how much sponsorships we received from major corporations,” he said.

This marks the second time in the POC’s history after the Philippines 2019 edition that the body is rewarding medalists in the games.

Tolentino said the bonuses will be deposited to the medalist athletes’ bank accounts.

Tolentino also said that the assembly agreed to lift the persona non grata sanction on Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association head Philip Ella Juico and confirmed the elevation to regular membership of the Samahang Kickboxing ng

Pilipinas headed by Senator Francis “Tol” Tolentino and the Philippine Esports Organization.

The assembly also agreed to recognize the Philippine National Rugby League or Pambansang Ragbi Liga Ng Pilipinas.

President Duterte has made it a tradition to reward successful Filipino athletes during his term, which was highlighted by the SEA Games overall title won in the country’s 2019 hosting of the games and Hidilyn Diaz’s gold medal at last year’s Tokyo Olympics.

The government also is mandated

by Republic Act No. 10699 through the Philippine Sports Commission to provide financial incentives to medalwinning athletes.

The law, also known as the National Athletes and Coaches Incentives and Benefits Act, rewards an athlete P300,000 for a gold medal, P150,000 for a silver and P60,000 for a bronze in the SEA Games.

Go praised the government’s efforts to support the delegation’s training and assistance “to the fullest extent possible.”

“The government should continue to invest in programs, financial aid and infrastructure to assist the athletes in achieving their goals,” he said.

PBA battles poachers head on as Philippine Cup opens Sunday

T

HE Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) opens its 47th season with the Philippine Cup on Sunday staring at the challenge posed by poachers who have been snatching the league’s current and future stars.

But TNT KaTropa’s Ricky Vargas, who’s serving an unprecedented fifth term as league chairman, remained unfazed.

“Surprisingly, the PBA stood its ground and the PBA is successful even without the players that we have lost,” Vargas told Monday’s preseason press conference at the Conrad Hotel in Pasay City. “We learned a lot

from the past two years when we’d lost some of our key players.”

The lure of the foreign leagues— particularly the Japan B.League and Taiwan league which offers juicy contracts stipulated in US dollars— saw an alarming exodus of current stars and potential future top players.

These include Thirdy Ravena, Dwight Ramos, Kobe Paras, Kiefer Ravena, Bobby Ray Parks and Justin Baltazar who are all playing in the B. League.

“Poaching has been very serious, we’ve lost some very good players who did not join the draft or who have been in the draft, but left the PBA,” Vargas said.

ERONA, Italy—Jai Hindley accomplished what he so narrowly missed out on two years ago by sealing overall victory in the Giro d’Italia on Sunday— becoming the first Australian rider to win Italy’s Grand Tour.

Hindley finished one minute and 18 seconds ahead of 2019 champion Richard Carapaz following the concluding individual time trial, which finished next to Verona’s Arena, a Roman amphitheater.

The victory was all the more sweet for Hindley after he entered the final stage of the 2020 Giro wearing the pink jersey only to finish runner-up to Tao Geoghegan Hart. Hindley said that second-place finish haunted him for months afterward.

“I had in the back of my mind what happened in 2020 and I wasn’t going to let that happen again,” Hindley said.

Carapaz finished seven seconds ahead of Hindley in the time trial but Hindley had entered the final day with an advantage of 1:25.

“I was getting updates and I felt pretty good on the bike,” Hindley said.

Hindley struggled last year with injury and sickness and withdrew midway through the 2021 Giro due to a saddle sore.

“Last year was really, really hard and I really fought hard to be back here,” Hindley said. “But I didn’t know I would be fighting for the win.”

Limited because of Covid-19 regulations, Hindley hasn’t gone home to Perth, Australia, since before the pandemic.

“Two days ago I heard my parents were coming to the finish,” Hindley said. “I hadn’t seen them since the start of 2020 so it was really special today.

At the end of the year I’ll go back home and savor every minute of it.”

Nothing went wrong for the Bora– Hansgrohe rider in this year’s race.

Hindley won Stage 9 that finished with a punishing climb to Blockhaus, he gained a few seconds on Carapaz during the grueling 16th stage that went over the legendary Mortirolo pass, then he stormed into the lead in the penultimate stage on Saturday by dropping his overall rivals on the fearsome Marmolada climb.

In essence, Hindley was better or evenly matched with Carapaz on nearly all of the climbing stages.

Hindley’s climbing prowess was already evident in 2020 when he won the Giro’s “queen” stage over the Stelvio pass.

Now, the 26-year-old Hindley has joined Cadel Evans, the 2011 Tour de France champion, as the only Australians to win a Grand Tour.

Carapaz, the Ecuadorian who won Olympic gold last year and was celebrating his 29th birthday Sunday, was the pre-race favorite.

Spanish rider Mikel Landa finished third overall, 3:24 behind, and Vincenzo Nibali, the 37-year-old two-time Giro champion who plans to retire at the end of this season, finished fourth, 9:02 behind.

Hindley, wearing an aerodynamic pink-and-black helmet to go with his pink leader’s jersey, simply smiled and pumped his fist a few times after crossing the finish line.

As for the rest of the year, Hindley said he would consider racing the Spanish Vuelta then hopes to ride at his home world championships in Wollongong in September. He likely won’t race the Tour de France.

Italian rider Matteo Sobrero won the 17.4-kilometer (11-mile) time trial, which followed a technical route that included a fourth-category climb and an ensuing descent, in 22 minutes, 24.54 seconds. AP

POC president in PSA Forum THE Philippine Basketball Association governors—Silliman Sy (Blackwater), Eric Arejola (Northport), Alfrancis Chua (Ginebra), Rene Pardo (Magnolia), Robert Non (San Miguel), Rodrigo Franco (NLEX), Mamerto Mondragon (Rain or Shine) and Atty. Chito Salud (Converge)—pose for posterity.

NONIE REYES Vargas said unregistered agents are doing the poaching but admitted the league couldn’t go after them legally.

“All we’re asking for is not for them to poach, but to be professional about the whole process. I guess it takes a lot from the players to be professional about it, and from those poaching them to be professional about it, and from the agents that poached them to be professional about it,” he said.

The Philippine Cup, meanwhile, opens with newcomer Converge facing Rain or Shine at 4:30 p.m. and Magnolia taking on defending champion TNT Tropang Giga at 6:30 p.m. at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Sunday.

The Leo Prieto Awards and the opening ceremony will be held starting at 2 p.m.

PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial

and 11 of 12 members of the board of governors—Vargas, Robert Non of San Miguel Beer, Alfrancis Chua of Ginebra, Silliman Sy of Blackwater, Chito Salud of Converge, Eric Arejola of NorthPort, Raymond Zorilla of Phoenix Super LPG, Bobby Rosales of Terrafirma, Rod Franco of NLEX, Rene Pardo of Magnolia and Atty Mamerto Mondragon—attended the news conference. Meralco team governor Al Panlilio wasn’t around.

Season 47 returns with the three-conference format with the Commissioner’s Cup with 6-foot10 reinforcement plus guest team Hong Kong Bay Dragons starting in September and Governors’ Cup with 6-foot-6 imports taking its turn in the last quarter of the year.

“The priority is to get back to normal and the only way we will get back to normal is to have three conferences,” Vargas said. Josef Ramos

P

HILIPPINE Olympic Committee (POC) president Rep. Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino will be the lone special guest at the resumption of the virtual Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum on Tuesday.

Tolentino will give an assessment on the performance of Team Philippines in the recent Vietnam 31st Southeast Asian Games and discuss what’s in store next for Filipino athletes.

Returning after giving way to the coverage of the SEA Games the past three weeks, the weekly Forum starts at 10 a.m.

The session is presented by San Miguel Corp., Milo, Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee, Amelie Hotel Manila, Unilever and the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp.

The public sports program is being livestreamed in the PSA Facebook page fb.com/ PhilippineSportswritersAssociation and aired on a delayed basis over Radyo Pilipinas 2, which also officially airs the program on its Facebook page.