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Thursday, October 7, 2021 Vol. 16 No. 358

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ADB-UNESCAP STUDY LISTS LESSONS FROM PANDEMIC FOR GLOBAL SUPPLY CHAINS B C U. O @caiordinario

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SCAVENGERS try to find recyclables in a landfill in Barangay Kalayaan, near the Taytay-Angono coastal road in Angono, Rizal, as a discarded mannequin stands as a sentinel at the dumpsite. BERNARD TESTA

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B B C

@BcuaresmaBM

HE country’s output likely slumped back to deceleration mode in the third quarter of the year, as renewed lockdowns during the period may have nipped the buds of early recovery in the second quarter of 2021, a local analyst said.

Pampanga’s Dennis Uy drops resort-casino project in Clark B VG C

@villygc

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AVAO businessman Dennis Uy has dropped his investments to put up an integrated resort and casino in Clark Global City in Pampanga, as he wants to focus his attention on the company’s huge gaming and resort site in Mactan in Cebu.

In its disclosure, Clark Grand Leisure Corp., a subsidiary of listed firm PH Resorts Group Holdings Inc., has received approval from the regulator for the voluntary suspension of its provisional gambling license for the facility, which never

PESO EXCHANGE RATES

even got through design stage.

“CGLC sought for the voluntary suspension of its license due to some lingering uncertainties surrounding the casino gaming industry especially with more competition in the Clark, Pampanga location,” the company said in its disclosure.

“The voluntary suspension also allows PHR to ramp up and focus all efforts for the construction and development of its flagship integrated resort and casino project, the Emerald Bay Resort and Casino, S “P’,” A

Speaking to the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) in a virtual dialogue on Wednesday, BDO Unibank First Vice President and Chief Market Strategist Jonathan Ravelas said the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) likely went back to contraction in the third quarter, after the 11.8-percent growth in the second quarter of the year.

“For the third quarter, with the

present lockdowns. I don’t think we will probably see a positive growth rate. In the second quarter, we already saw a negative 1.3-percent growth quarter-on-quarter so most likely we will probably see another decelerating trend,” Ravelas said.

The analyst, however, expects GDP to pick back up toward the end of the year as the country is

HE Covid-19 pandemic has sorely tested the resiliency of supply chains, turning up weak points in trade networks, inventories and financing. And, if there is one lesson that the pandemic has taught the world, it is that lean and mean supply chain management is no longer a viable strategy in global trade, according to an Asian Development Bank (ADB) report.

In the Asia Pacific Trade Facilitation Report, ADB and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific cited a need for greater regional and global cooperation to ensure that global trade remains unimpeded.

Efforts to improve trade facilitation, especially through the adoption of digital trade schemes alone, ADB and Unescap said, could reduce trade costs by over 13 percent.

“The Covid-19 pandemic has provided many hardearned lessons and created a paradigm shift in keeping supply chains more resilient. Lean supply chain management once known for efficiency may no longer be a valid strategy in certain sectors without taking into account potential risks for crises like the Covid-19 pandemic,” the report stated.

“With every part of the world encountering wide and deep repercussions, regional and global ‘collaboration’ has become even more important among many other capabili-

ties toward supply chain resilience,” it added.

The pandemic, ADB Knowledge Management and Sustainable Development Vice President Bambang Susantono said, highlighted supply chain weaknesses partially for critical goods on vaccines; personal protective equipment; and food.

The Escap-ADB study underscored the need to strengthen the resilience of supply chains as the Covid-19 pandemic laid bare the vulnerabilities of concentrated trade networks, limited inventories and financing shortages.

High global value chain participation left Asia and the Pacific particularly vulnerable to restrictive trade policies.

Based on the report, Asean-4 had the highest trade costs globally at 76.7 percent between 2014 and 2019. Asean-4 includes Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines and Thailand.

“Border closures, export controls and health and safety protocols have disrupted production and the flow of goods across international boundaries, with dire effects on the supplies of critical goods such as food, personal protective equipment and vaccines, especially for the poor and vulnerable,” Susantono said.

The role of multilaterals has also been highlighted by the report. Efforts exerted through the help of multilateral agencies have facilitated C  A

S “GDP,” A

Jan-Aug abaca yield grows 10% on 4 regions’ output rise B J E Y. A

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@jearcalas

HE country’s abaca production continues to sustain its upward trend as output from January to August expanded by nearly 10 percent to 44,796.21 metric tons from 40,744.97 MT, latest government data showed.

The double-digit increase in output was driven by higher production in the regions of Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas and Northern Mindanao, based on latest data released by the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFida).

PhilFida data showed that Bicol Region remained as the country’s top abaca producing-

region as it accounted for 32 percent of the total eight-month output.

However, abaca production in the Bicol region declined by 2.9 percent to 14,525.97 MT from last year’s 14.960.88 MT due to lower output in Albay and Sur. The production in the country’s abaca capital, Catanduanes, grew by 1.4 percent to 12,179.46 MT from 12,015.53 MT recorded in the eight-month period of last year, based on PhilFida data.

PhilFida data showed that abaca output in Northern Mindanao grew by 81.1 percent to 5,540.69 MT from last year’s 3,059.80 MT. Davao region’s abaca production, the counC  A

■ US 50.7110 ■ JAPAN 0.4549 ■ UK 69.1039 ■ HK 6.5138 ■ SINGAPORE 37.3782 ■ AUSTRALIA 36.9379 ■ SAUDI ARABIA 13.5222 ■ EU 58.8197 ■ CHINA 7.8361

Source: BSP (October 6, 2021)

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News BusinessMirror

Thursday, October 7, 2021

Pampanga’s...

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located in Mactan, Cebu,” it said.

“The voluntary suspension shall be effective until further notice and its lifting shall be subject to the approval of the Pagcor [Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp.] board of directors,” it said.

Clark Freeport, a former US military base, is host to at least six casino operators, catering mainly to Korean and other Asian gamblers and most of these current locators are also expanding their operations. There are new ones that have already expressed their intention to put up a casino in Clark.

Pagcor issued its provisional license to Clark Grand Leisure Corp. in August 2018 after Uy promised to put up an integrated resort and casino by 2022 in hopes of rivaling the huge gaming sites in Entertainment City in Parañaque.

CGLC currently leases the site on which the Clark Resort will be located from Global Gateway Development Corp. The project is currently in the design phase, according to the company.

Emerald Bay, meanwhile, is the company’s P24.2-billion flagship integrated casino beach front resort in Mactan, Cebu.

It will be the first integrated casino resort in Mactan Island with access from the Cebu-Mactan International Airport. The initial phase of the casino is scheduled for completion by middle of 2022.

Upon completion of the first phase, Emerald Bay will feature 122 gaming tables for mass, premium mass and junkets; 600 electronic gaming machines and 270 hotel room bays.

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Amid pandemic, UK is now top job site for PHL health workers

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B S P. M

@sam_medenilla

HE United Kingdom (UK) is now the top destination for Filipino health-care workers (HCW) after the Covid-19 pandemic that began early last year highlighted their key roles in the health crisis, according to the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA).

This, despite the 36.83-percent decline in the number of HCWs deployed to the European country in 2020.

In an online press briefing on Wednesday, POEA Administrator Bernard P. Olalia said the UK was able to gradually outpace last year other traditional destination countries like the Kingdom of Sau-

di Arabia (KSA) and Germany in terms of recruitment of HCWs. He surmised that the surge in demand for Filipino HCWs in the UK could have been brought about by the labor shortage of the healthcare sector in the said country, which was worsened by the pandemic.

“Nurses are in demand in other

POEA Administrator Bernard P. Olalia

European countries. Those who left the UK probably saw better opportunities in other European countries,” Olalia said.

Based on preliminary data obtained by the BM from POEA, a total of 2,391 health associate professionals were deployed in the UK last year, which is lower compared to the 3,785 in 2019.

The bulk or 2,358 of those deployed last year were nurses followed by medical imaging and therapeutic equipment technicians (18), specialist medical practitioners (13) and general medical practitioners (2).

The number of Filipino HCWs is expected to continue to increase in the coming months after the government exempted the UK earlier this year from the 6,500 annual deployment cap imposed by POEA for HCWs. In response to the growing number of deployed HCWs in the UK, DOLE is set to sign a new memorandum of understanding with the UK government on Friday to boost the protection and working conditions of HCWs there.

ADB-UNESCAP STUDY LISTS LESSONS FROM PANDEMIC FOR GLOBAL SUPPLY CHAINS C  A

access for critical goods.

Through the Asean plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve, the Philippines received a total of 1,000

MT of rice in donations from the Republic of Korea, in response to a typhoon.

Other countries that accessed the facility were Myanmar which received 600 MT of rice; while Ja-

pan donated 300 MT for Cambodia in response to flood, drought, and the Covid-19 pandemic.

The report said ADB’s initial response of $6.5 billion was raised to $20 billion early in 2020 to support countercyclical measures in its developing member-countries.

This included providing $1.5 billion each for India, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Thailand for disease containment and social protection support for economically vulnerable groups.

“Multilateral institutions also play a key role in advancing free trade and helping countries implement trade facilitation measures.

An integrated global economy requires open trade regimes, harmonized customs systems with interoperable digital infrastructure, as well as full implementation of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement,” the report stated.

However, economies in the region have shown continued progress in streamlining trade procedures despite the Covid-19 pandemic, and the subsequent supply chain disruptions and surge in shipping costs—which hit an alltime peak this year.

Implementation of 31 general and digital trade facilitation measures rose on average across the region to 64.9 percent in 2021, about 6 percentage points higher than in 2019.

The Escap-ADB study underscores the need to strengthen the

resilience of supply chains as the Covid-19 pandemic laid bare the vulnerabilities of concentrated trade networks, limited inventories and financing shortages.

The report added that high global value chain participation left Asia and the Pacific particularly vulnerable to restrictive trade policies.

“In addition to digitalization, there is also a need to pursue trade facilitation policies that make trade more sustainable and inclusive, leaving no one behind,” said Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, United Nations undersecretary general and Escap executive secretary.

She added that measures are specifically needed to support small and medium-sized enterprises, women and the agricultural sector to make recovery more sustainable.

The Unescap report further highlights the role of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement and the related UN treaty on cross-border paperless trade in Asia and the Pacific to accelerate recovery postCovid-19 while trade openness remains a key element.

As the pandemic hastened trade digitalization, Unescap said more work is needed to leverage digital technologies to streamline customs procedures and electronic exchange of information, and implement national and regional single windows for document submission and clearance.

BDO Unibank First Vice President and Chief Market Strategist Jonathan Ravelas

GDP...

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expected to open its economy more during the period.

For the year, his forecast GDP is 4.3 percent, well within the 4 to 5 percent assumption of the government for 2021. For next year, Ravelas puts in a more optimistic forecast of 6 percent on government spending and election spending.

Ravelas said weak business and consumer confidence in the country continue to “cloud” the country’s recovery. The analyst also said his policy recommendation is for the country to move from a “reactive” to “proactive” approach and accept that the virus will eventually be endemic.

“We need to be able to prepare ourselves to move from a reactionary pandemic management to a more endemic strategy, meaning, we need to now think how we [can] sustain reopening the economy without going back to the present situation,” Ravelas said, adding that this will likely improve business confidence in the country.

While recovery has been affected, the analyst sees “silver linings”—particularly remittances and business-process outsourcing (BPO) receipts—in the economy, adding these are expected to continue supporting the country.

“Remittances continue to flourish as they are now very similar to that of remittances last year. Most of the forecast before were looking at 5-percent decline, but it only dropped by less than 5 percent,” Ravelas said.

“This year we’re looking at close to 5 percent in terms of remittance growth and normalizing back to at least 4 percent in the coming years,” he added. The analyst also said BPO receipts have “outperformed themselves” because they are able to work at home and convert some of their allowances to pay for their Internet.

Data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) showed that cash sent home by Filipino migrant workers hit its highest level for the year in July this year at $2.853 billion, as overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) continued to defy expectations and retain altruistic trends amid the pandemic.

Jan-Aug abaca yield grows 10% on 4 regions’ output rise C  A

try’s second-largest producer of the natural fiber, increased by 2.6 percent year-on-year to 8,728.57 MT, PhilFida data also showed.

Abaca production in Western Visayas grew by 62.8 percent year-on-year to 2,553.87 MT while output in Eastern Visayas expanded by 34.9 percent to 3,121.38 MT from 2,313.20 MT recorded last year.

Central Visayas’ abaca output rose by 33.5

percent to 194.07 MT year-on-year, based on PhilFida data. The BusinessMirror earlier reported that barring strong typhoons, the country’s abaca output this year may expand to a 3-year high due to robust output in the abovementioned regions.

PhilFida Executive Director Kennedy T. Costales earlier told the BUSINESSMIRROR that domestic abaca production may grow by 18.33 percent to 70,000 metric tons (MT) this year, particularly if the sector can sustain the

10.2-percent production growth rate it posted in the seven-month period.

The last time Philippine abaca production breached the 70,000-MT level was in 2018, when output reached 76,259.38 MT, based on historical PhilFida data.

“We pray for good weather so that our farmers will have an abundant harvest. We project that the Philippines will breach 70,000 MT by year-end, [higher] than the 61,491.67 metric tons. Output may even surpass 70,000 MT,” Costales said last month.

Movement restrictions imposed by the government to stop the spread of Covid-19 coupled with the devastation caused by Typhoon Rolly pulled down the country’s abaca output last year to a 7-year low.

PhilFida data obtained and analyzed by the BUSINESSMIRROR showed that abaca production last year declined by 11.94 percent to 61,491.67 MT from the 69,828.8 MT recorded in 2019.

Historical PhilFida data, dating back to 1980, showed that this is the lowest abaca output by the country since the 55,958 MT recorded in 2013.

The Philippines is the world’s top producer and exporter of abaca, accounting for about 84 percent of global market share.

www.businessmirror.com.ph

The Nation BusinessMirror

PHL passport dips to 83rd rank in Henley’s ’21 index

By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario

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R AV EL restr ictions imposed by rich nations may have caused the Philippine passport’s ranking to plunge to its lowest level in 15 years according to the latest edition of Henley’s Passport Index.

The Philippine passport is now ranked 83rd out of 199 passports.

The country shares this ranking with Zimbabwe, which also received an overall visa-free score of 65.

The highest ranking of the country in the index was in 2007 to 2009 when it maintained the rank of 62nd. Prior to 2021, the lowest rank of the Philippines in the index was in 2015 at 80th.

“Countries in the global north with high-ranking passports have enforced some of the most stringent inbound Covid-19-related travel restrictions, while many countries with lower-ranking passports have relaxed their borders without seeing this openness reciprocated,” Henley & Partners said in a news statement.

“This has created an ever-widening gap in travel freedom even for fully vaccinated travelers from countries at the lower end of the passport power ranking who remain locked out of most of the world,” it added.

Singapore ranked first overall with Japan given its visa free score of 192. Singapore is the only Asean country in the top 10.

This was followed by Malaysia which ranked 13th overall with a visa-free score of 179; Brunei, 23rd with a score of 166; and Timor-Leste, 62nd with a score of 93.

Thailand, which shared the 72nd

ranking with Bolivia, China, and Saudi Arabia, had a visa-free score of 79. This was followed by Indonesia which ranked 78th with a score of 71 along with Tunisia and Zambia.

Other Asean countries, Cambodia and Vietnam, both ranked 95th overall received a visa-free score of 53 along with Chad, Comoro Islands and Niger. Myanmar, meanwhile, ranked 102nd with a visa-free score of 46.

“Covid-19 is as much an economic crisis as it is a public health one, though in both regards it disproportionately negatively affects migration origin countries,” Erol Yayboke, senior fellow with the International Security Program and director of the Project on Fragility and Mobility at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) in Washington, D.C. said.

“Increased pressure to move for survival will be met with pandemicrelated barriers to movement that are likely to linger, both because the virus itself is lingering and because increased control over migration will be difficult for some leaders to relinquish,” he added.

The Henley Passport Index is the original ranking of all the world’s passports according to the number of destinations their holders can access without a prior visa.

Originally created by Dr. Christian H. Kaelin, the ranking is based on exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

IATA maintains the world’s largest and most accurate database of travel information, and it is enhanced by extensive, ongoing research by the Henley & Partners Research Department.

Task force arrests 13, seizes P4.5M worth of ‘hot logs’ in Valenzuela, 3 Bulacan towns

By Jonathan L. Mayuga @jonlmayuga

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HE Anti-Illegal Logging Task Force (AILTF) has successfully confiscated some P4.5 million worth of illegally cut premium wood in three separate operations in Valenzuela City and Bulacan last week, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) reported on Wednesday.

The DENR-led AILTF also nabbed 13 individuals and confiscated two vehicles being by the suspects as service vehicles.

The confiscation of the undocumented forest products is pursuant to Executive Order (EO) 23, Declaring a Moratorium on the Cutting and Harvesting of Timber in the Natural and Residual Forests, and Section 68 of Presidential Decree 705, as amended by Republic Act 7161 or the Revised Forestry Code of the Philippines, said DENR Undersecretary for Protected Areas and Special Concerns Edilberto D.C. Leonardo.

“The AILTF has been recalibrated so that it can move forward with greater strength from its creation in 2011 with the issuance of EO 23 so that it can further strengthen the forest protection capability and boost the government campaign against

violators of environmental laws, especially against illegal loggers,” Leonardo, also executive director of the newly-reactivated AILTF, said in a news statement.

The AILTF was revived on January 30, 2021 following the order of President Duterte in the wake of widespread flooding caused by Typhoon Ulysses in November last year.

The AILTF is composed of personnel from the Philippine National Police, DENR, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Department of National Defense, and Armed Forces of the Philippines.

It is clustered into AILTF for Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao with its command post at the office of the Undersecretary for Protected Areas and Special Concerns at the DENR Central Office in Quezon City.

During the buy-bust operations conducted in Parada, Valenzuela City on September 22, the AILTF confiscated 33 flitches of undocumented narra, yakal, molave, and mahogany measuring 3,503 board feet and valued at P4 million.

The DENR-National Capital Region (NCR) provided the overall technical support to the operation consisting of identification, assessment, inventory, scaling and hauling of the apprehended forest products.

Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug • Thursday, October 7, 2021 A3

PNP chief reminds ’22 hopefuls: Resist NPA campaign ‘extortion’

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By Rene Acosta

@reneacostaBM

HE Philippine National Police ordered on Wednesday all of its offices and units to thwart schemes by the New People’s Army to generate funds during the election period, including outright extortion from electoral candidates.

President Duterte earlier warned rebels and political warlords to stay out of the national and local elections next year, stressing that New People’s Army rebels should be prevented from collecting “permit-to-

campaign” and “permit-to-win” fees from politicians.

“I am ordering our police to make sure that NPA rebels cannot carry out their extortion activities. We are expecting that they will take advan-

tage of the election season to extort from candidates in the upcoming elections,” PNP chief General Guillermo Eleazar said on Wednesday.

“I am also reminding the candidates that they should not give in to these illegal activities of communist rebels. Let us work together to ensure that next year’s elections would be clean and orderly,” he added.

The PNP chief said the police would remain vigilant against rebels and other local threat groups before, during and even after the elections.

Eleazar also ordered all police regional and provincial directors to put on standby sufficient personnel that could be tapped for peace and order duties in anticipation of the influx of candidates filing their Certificate of Candidacy

(COC) and Certificate of Nomination and Acceptance (CONA) on October 8.

The PNP chief issued the order while appealing to candidates to refrain from turning the last day on the filing of COCs and CONAs into “super spreader events” for the Covid-19.

He dissuaded them from tagging along with them their supporters in filing their COCs. Police forces across the country were earlier ordered to coordinate with the Comelec to ensure peace and order and enforce public health and safety in the filing of COCs and CONAs from October 1 to October 8.

Eleazar said that the filing of COCs and CONAs had been generally peaceful and orderly as of Wednesday.

Ex-Comelec chief Benjamin Abalos Sr. renews mayoralty bid in Mandaluyong

By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco @claudethmc3

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ORMER Commission on Elections (Comelec)Chairman Benjamin Abalos Sr. ended his 14year political hiatus as he filed his certificate of candidacy (COC) on Wednesday to run as Mandaluyong City mayor in the May 2022 polls with daughter-in-law, incumbent Mayor Carmelita “Menchie” Abalos as his running mate.

“I am returning to politics to fulfill my last promise to my late wife Cora,” said Abalos after filing his COC together with Menchie at the local Commission on Elections office in Mandaluyong, formalizing their election bid.

According to the Abalos tandem, the comeback of their family patriarch to the political arena and the decision of the lady mayor to run as vice mayor is to fulfill the promise they made to the family’s matriarch, Corazon Abalos, who died last January after contracting Covid-19. Corazon, died of severe sepsis secondary to pneumonia due to Covid-19 on January 26.

“I have made the last promise to my wife to spend the remaining years of my life to serve the Mandaleños once again, in honor of her.

My passion to serve the Mandaleños doesn’t stop even if I was out of the political sphere for the past 14 years. With all the experiences I had when I was a mayor and a member of the Cabinet and my personal experience during this pandemic, I know that I can usher the city to its healing, recovery, and the shift towards new normal—creating the perfect balance to protect the public health and revive the economy,” Abalos said.

According to Mayor Abalos, though she is gunning for the vice mayoralty post, she will still be assisting the older Abalos in making sure that the city will transition to new normal as the Abalos patriarch

assured their constituents that the programs and projects instituted and institutionalized by the incumbent mayor will still remain in place.

“Mandaleños will still have a tried and tested kind of leadership through my father-in-law as I take the backseat,” the incumbent mayor said adding, ‘The decision to remain in office, albeit in a more limited and supplementary capacity as a possible vice mayor, stems from a passion to serve that has been honed through years of continuous service.”

Both of them have their fair share of experiences in leading the “Tiger City” and make it more aggressive amid the transition to new normal.

The Abalos patriarch, who is a Covid-19 survivor himself, vowed that the Covid-19 response system initiated and institutionalized by his daughter-in-law would remain in place.

Among these are the MandaTrack and MandaVac, which remain accessible even to non-residents of Mandaluyong.

Pioneer of reforms

BEING in the political arena since 1963, Abalos, was known as the pioneer of reforms in Mandaluyong, after he introduced Build-OperateTransfer (BOT) and public-private partnerships (PPPs) when he served as city mayor from June 30, 1988June 30, 1998.

“From Joketown to Boom Town” is a catch phrase often used to describe the transformation of Mandaluyong City, as cited by Asiaweek Magazine. Further, the city came to be known as the “Tiger City of the Philippines” because of the remarkable business and economic progress credited to his son Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chairman Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr. brand of leadership when he served as city mayor.

He won awards for providing housing for the poor. Under his helm, the city purchased the Philip-

pine National Railways (PNR) property, and allowed informal settlers to purchase the property payable for 20 years. Approximately 7,000 families benefited under this project. Massive investments poured in: SM Megamall, Shangri-La Malls and hotel, Asian Development Bank (ADB), among others.

The older Abalos, who is a lawyer, served as a Trial Court Judge wherein he gained the distinction of being named as an outstanding judge for 10 straight years.

The late President Corazon Aquino appointed him as officerin-charge (OIC) of the then municipality of Mandaluyong. As OIC of the municipality, he ran and won as local chief executive of the city in the 1988 local elections, the first local elections under the 1987 Constitution.

He was reelected twice in the elections of 1992 and 1995. Under his leadership, Mandaluyong City was proclaimed a highly urbanized city of Metro Manila on February 9, 1994, pursuant to Republic Act 7675.

He also served as chairperson of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority during the administration of former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo from 2001 to 2002 and served as chairman of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) from 2002 to 2007.

Outstanding nutrition program and child-friendly city

MENCHIE joined the political arena when she first ran and won for the mayoralty post in 2016, replacing her husband who had served as Mandaluyong congressman and long-time mayor of the city.

Her involvement in public service started since she was the first lady of the city. She was the Nutrition Action Officer of the city from 1998 up until Benhur finished his last term of office in June 2016.

In 2010, she was elected the first President of the Nutrition

Action Officers Association of the Philippines. She also served as the Regional President of the Association of Nutrition Action Officers from 2012.

With her dedicated support to the City Nutrition Committee, the city obtained the Green Banner Award for three straight years (from 2010 to 2012) for its outstanding nutrition program management and implementation. The city also brought home the Consistent Regional Outstanding Winner in Nutrition Award (2013) given by the National Nutrition Council.

The city was awarded the Presidential Award for the Most ChildFriendly City of the Philippines in 2011 by the Council for the Welfare of Children while she headed the Mandaluyong City Local Council for the Protection of Children as Program Director.

In 2012, the city became a National Level Finalist and conferred the Seal of Child-Friendly Local Governance-Top Performing Local Government Unit in the National Capital Region in 2015.

In 2016, the city once again became a top National Level Finalist for the Most Child-Friendly City award and was conferred the Seal of Communities of Practice on Child Friendly Local Governance.

In July 2015, she is also very contributory in the city’s achievement of the Guinness World Records for the largest Zumba class in one location in July 2015.

With her daughter, Councilor Charisse, she continuously supports the endeavors of the Ciara Marie Foundation which has been a blessing to more than 700 ailing children at the special ward named the Ciara Marie Foundation Sepsis and Infectious Disease Ward in Mandaluyong City Medical Center whose hospital bills, laboratories and medicines have been covered by the foundation, among others.

BBM to LGUs: Bring vaccination rollout closer to target recipients

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ORMER Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is urging local government units (LGUs) to raise the number of vaccination sites, and provide incentives to encourage hesitant Pinoys to get vaccinated.

Marcos’s appeal comes amid persistent reports of vaccine hesitancy among the unvaccinated senior citizens in urban and rural areas.

“Talagang problema pa rin natin ang vaccine hesitancy lalo na sa mga

nakatatanda at sa mga liblib na kanayunan ito ay ayon na rin sa National Task Force Against Covid-19 na napansin na mas mababa ang nagpapabakuna kaysa sa kanilang projections,” Marcos said.

He added that the government should also embark on a massive information campaign on social-media platforms on the benefits of being fully vaccinated in one’s mobility and the protection of one’s family.

“Dapat ay paigtingin ang informa-

tion campaign ng pamahalaan at bigyang diin ang benepisyo ng kumpleto ang bakuna gaya ng mas malayang pagkilos sa kanilang mga komunidad at siyempre ang proteksiyon ng pamilya mula sa Covid-19,” Marcos said.

Marcos also encouraged LGUs to bring the vaccination sites closer to the people especially in remote areas where mass transportation is a problem.

“Kailangang pagsumikapan ng mga LGUs na mailapit ang vaccination roll-

out lalo na sa mga nakatira sa kanayunan o mga liblib na lugar,” Marcos said.

“Medyo mahirap ang transportasyon at hindi rin biro ang distansiya na kailangang lakbayin ng ilan makarating lang sa mga vaccination sites,” Marcos added.

Marcos also said that another reason for the hesitancy among people in rural areas is their fear of losing income because they will be marked absent from work while getting the jab.

He urged LGUs to provide financial incentives to the unvaccinated and talk to their employers so that getting vaccinated will be considered as an added benefit or a paid holiday for the employee.

“Unawain natin na may mga kababayan tayong talagang hirap sa buhay at ang pagliban sa trabaho para magpabakuna ay may malaking epekto sa kanila. Maglaan dapat ang pamahalaan ng tulong pinansiyal at pakiusapan ang kanilang mga pinag-

tatrabahuhan na payagan silang magpabakuna nang hindi mabawasan ang kanilang suweldo.”

Marcos added that addressing the needs of the hesitant unvaccinated will change people’s views on vaccination and will certainly help the country reach herd immunity faster.

“Kung ito ang gagawin, sa tingin ko magbabago ang pananaw ng mga tao sa pagpapabakuna at mas mapapabilis natin maaabot ang herd immunity na ating inaasam,” Marcos said.

A4 Thursday, October 7, 2021 • Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug

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Concepcion presses for ‘clearer’ method in resolving alert levels

By Tyrone Jasper C. Piad

P

@TyronePiad

RESIDENTIAL Adviser for Entrepreneurship Jose Maria A. Concepcion called for more transparency in terms

of determining the alert levels under the new community quarantine regime.

In a news statement on Wednesday, the Go Negosyo founder said there must be a “clearer way” of identifying the alert level so

businesses can have better preparation.

“We have to agree on certain parameters to determine the alert levels that is easier to understand,” Concepcion said. “Our goal is to do the reopening safely and limit the

mobility of the unvaccinated to protect them from risks.”

The Alert Level System (ALS) was implemented last month. It is broken down to 5 levels, with Alert 5 being the most alarming and restrictive.

Recently, Concepcion said he met with OCTA Research fellow Nicanor Austriaco and Dr. Alethea de Guzman of the Department of Health (DOH) to tackle the issue.

They discussed suggestions to determine alert level classifications via a “more scientific and transparent method.”

The parties said that the following should be considered: number of active

cases, vaccination rate and hospitalization status of positive cases.

“We propose to link alert levels to percentage of total active cases in the National Capital Region that require hospitalization,” Austriaco said. “With this number as our basis, we have to establish a reopening strategy that ensures that we do not exceed this bed capacity in [Metro Manila].”

Metro Manila is under Alert Level 4 until October 15.

Outdoor dine-in and personal care services—including barbershops, hair spas, nail spas and beauty sales—are allowed 30 percent capacity. For indoor capacity, operations are capped at 20 percent for fully vaccinated individuals only.

59 public schools likely to participate in pilot run of F-to-F classes–DepEd

By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco @claudethmc3

A

N initial list of 59 public schools that have hurdled the granular risk assessment standard will likely participate in the pilot run of the face-toface (F-to-F) classes, the Department of Education (DepEd) said.

The list was drawn from the 638 nominated schools submitted by DepEd to the Department of Health (DOH) earlier.

“Rolling assessment to be transmitted to DepEd by DOH every Monday, to increase the number of schools to complete the 120,” said DepEd Undersecretary Nepomuceno Malaluan adding that regional directors may submit justification for inclusion of specific schools for further evaluation by DOH. These identified schools were carefully tagged by the DOH Epidemiology Bureau as minimal or low risk, as of October 2, based on the Alert Levels by provinces/ highly urbanized cities (HUC)/ independent component cities (ICC) and risk category by municipality and city.

Malaluan said that the target start of the F-to-F classes would be on November 15, or start of Academic Quarter 2.

In December there would be close monitoring of the progress, Christmas break, and assessment of initial run (November 15-December 22), reopening of classes in January after Christmas break. The end of pilot study is on January 31.

In February, Malaluan said that there would be an evaluation of the pilot study, identification of schools for expansion, preparation of expansion schools, site inspection, final list of expansion, approval of expansion implementation plan, dryrun, presentation to the President of the pilot report and proposed expansion.

If the proposed expansion would push through, the start would be on March 7.

The DepEd reiterated that the target F-to-F classes will help:

Address difficulty in monitoring and assessing learning progress remotely

Mitigate inequalities and unevenness in access to technology, household resources, and student skills for self-learning

Allow resumption of activities that cannot be done at home

Address needs of learners with no adult in the family qualified to perform the role of learning facilitator

Ease negative mental health and child development impact of the lack of F-to-F interaction and socialization among children

With resumption of F-to-F classes, schools can help in the enforcement of health standards in school setting

Shared responsibility

DEPED and DOH vowed to work with local government units (LGUs), school officials, community stakeholders, and participating teachers and learners in ensuring the safe operations of the pilot implementation of F-to-F classes.

In the joint memorandum circular (JMC) of DepEd and DOH officially signed last September 27, the national government has adopted the Shared Responsibility framework in the pilot implementation of physical classes to strengthen the school-community health and safety support system.

“Our responsibility for DepEd is to secure areas, the local government units who have given their consent and are prepared to cooperate, the permission of parents, and also the readiness of our own facilities in DepEd for limited face-to-face learning. On the other hand, the Department of Health will assess the health side readiness of the school,” Secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones said.

Anchored on the DepEd Framework of Shared Responsibility and UN AgenciesWorld Bank Framework of Reopening Schools,thesaidJMCfeaturesfourkeypillars, namely, (1) Safe Operations, (2) Teaching and Learning, (3) Including the Most Marginalized, and (4) Well-being and Protection.

Under Safe Operations, a maximum of 120 schools, 95 elementary schools, 5 senior high schools, and 20 private schools, will be chosen for the pilot. These schools must be located at minimal risk areas and passed the School Safety Assessment Tool (SSAT). LGUs must also express their support with a resolution or letter allowing the conduct of the pilot run in the community.

Participating learners must submit signed consent from their parents, and preferably near the school and without existing comorbidities. Teachers and school staff who will directly interact with learners in the pilot run, meanwhile, must be fully vaccinated.

Meanwhile, for the teaching and learning standards, blended learning will be applied alternately, one week F-to-F and another week for distance learning. Class sizes must only be 12 learners for Kinder; 16 for Grades 1 to 3; 20 for Senior High School (SHS); and 12 SHS in TVL workshops/Science laboratories, with a maximum of 4.5 hours stay in school, except for Kindergarten, with a maximum of three hours.

In addition, to guarantee the well-being and protection of learners and personnel, the JMC also requires schools to have physical distancing-compliant classroom layout and structure, safe school traffic management, protective measures and safety procedures, psychological support, and contingency plan, among others.

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Same faces, familiar names file COC for House seats

By Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz @joveemarie

R

EELECTIONISTS, former politicians, and well-known personalities are seeking the three-year term as members of the 19th Congress.

Speaker Lord Allan Velasco, Deputy Speaker Neptali “Boyet” Gonzales II of Mandaluyong, House Committee on Ways and Means Chairman Joey Salceda of Albay, House Committee on Appropriations Chairman Eric Go Yap, Davao Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez are among the members of the current Congress who filed their certificates of candidacy (COC) to reclaim their congressional post.

Banking on his “proven track record and strong commitment to public service,” Velasco is seeking reelection for another three-year term as representative of the lone district of

Marinduque province in Congress.

Velasco said he has more work to do in the House of Representatives where he has been serving two consecutive terms for over five years now.

Gonzales, for his part, filed his COC for reelection as representative of the Lone District of Mandaluyong City.

Gonzales, a veteran House leader, said providing better health-care system and job generation for his constituents are among his top priorities in the incoming 19th Congress.

“I will relentlessly pursue the continuity of my compassionate and responsive programs to the needs of my constituents and betterment of Mandaluyong City in this time of Covid-19 pandemic,” Gonzales, who served as Majority Leader during the 11th, 12th, 15th and 16th Congresses.

Gonzales served as representative of Man-

Senators find DHSUD budget ‘inadequate’ to fulfill targets

By Cai U. Ordinario

@caiordinario

T

HE budget allocated to the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) and its attached agencies is “grossly inadequate,” according to some senators.

In the Senate Committee on Finance Subcommittee H session, Senators Risa Hontiveros, Franklin M. Drilon, and Francis Tolentino agreed that the agency must be given a higher budget next year.

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) allocated a budget of P6.39 billion for the DHSUD and its attached agencies for 2022.

“The real priorities in the national budget are so unheard of that the economic and social projects, like in housing, are totally ignored,” Drilon said. “We should support our housing sector, it is a multiplier for our economy,” the senator added.

Hontiveros, also emphasized the need for the budget allocation for the housing sector to be raised for DHSUD to enforce and carry out regulations and programs meant to benefit Filipinos, particularly the urban poor.

Tolentino, who chairs the Senate Committee on Housing also expressed support to increase the DHSUD’s budget for 2022. He said he supported the recommendation of Drilon.

“I reiterate the recommendation given by the Minority Leader [Drilon] and I support the passage of this measure to address the miniscule budget needed by Filipinos for housing, which is the first and last bastion as we control the Covid-19 pandemic,” Tolentino added.

In a presentation, DHSUD Secretary Eduardo del Rosario said efforts to meet the agency’s Philippine Development Plan (PDP) targets are under way and may be exceeded since the accomplishment rate is already at

84 percent as of June 2021.

Del Rosario said the DHSUD and key shelter agencies (KSA) have been able to build 1.076 million houses between 2016 and June 2021. This represents 84 percent of the 1.28 million PDP target.

This means the DHSUD has a year to complete 203,976. Del Rosario said given that the annual accomplishment of the agency has reached an average of 195,687 houses per year since 2016.

“It means we still have six months and the whole year of 2022 to accomplish the remaining balance of more than 200,000 units. It means to say that with an average of 195,000 yearly accomplishments of the housing sector, we can easily accomplish more than 100 percent of our PDP target,” del Rosario said during the hearing.

Del Rosario highlighted the accomplishments of DHSUD and its KSAs, including the finalization of the 20-year national housing road map and the formation of a task force to run after real-estate scammers.

He added that the country’s housing need currently stands at 6.5 million nationwide and will most likely to soar by next year, hence the need to increase the government’s budget allocation.

Since 2010, government allocation for the housing sector only stands at less than 1 percent of the national budget. For next year, the department is proposing a P75.575-billion budget, but the recommended allotment by the Department of Budget and Management is only P6.39 billion.

According to the housing czar, DHSUD is advocating for the passage of the National Housing Production and Development Financing Act, which will ensure a P50-billion annual appropriation for the next 20 years to address the country’s rising housing need, as well as promote public housing development.

IBP urges Duterte to withdraw order barring Cabinet from Senate inquiry

By Joel R. San Juan

T

@jrsanjuan1573

HE Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) has joined calls for President Duterte to withdraw his memorandum barring officials of the Executive branch from attending the ongoing Senate inquiry into the deal entered into by the government and Pharmally Pharmaceuticals Corporation for the purchase of Covid-19 medical supplies.

In a two-page statement signed by its officials led by its national president and chairman of the board of governors Burt Estrada, the IBP also called on lawmakers and officials of the Executive branch to unite and cooperate with one another in resolving the lingering problem of corruption in the country.

The IBP stressed the importance of cooperation between the two branches of government, saying that corruption has deprived Filipinos of an effective healthcare system that could have saved lives and provided better financial assistance to households and businesses in distress during this pandemic.

“It is imperative for our government to fight corruption, wherever it maybe, and to assist, rather than obstruct, any investigation that seeks to identify the root of corruption, wherever it maybe, and to assist, rather than obstruct, any investigation that seeks to identify the root of corruption and the perpetrators behind them,” the IBP statement read.

“We, thus, urge the President to reconsider his decision to bar his Cabinet from attending the Senate investigation on the alleged irregularities in the Department of Health [DOH] spending related to the Covid-19 pandemic program. It is only by granting our Congress free access to information that we can empower them to formulate policies that fully reflect the will of our people,” IBP said.

IBP stressed that the Supreme Court has previously ruled that while the Executive branch is a co-equal branch of the legislature, it cannot hinder the power of Congress to legislate by refusing to comply with its demands for information.

“A transparent government is one of the hallmarks of a truly Republican state. The only way to succeed is for all branches of government to work together in combating corruption and abuse.”

Earlier, the Philippine Bar Association (PBA) also made a similar appeal, saying that Duterte’s orders barring Cabinet members from appearing before the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee and for the police and military to ignore the warrants of arrest that the Senate might issue in response, are unconstitutional.

The group said the two directives “upsets the systems of checks and balances and transgresses the doctrine of separation of powers” among the three co-equal branches of the government.

daluyong City during 10th, 11th, 12th, 14th, 15th, 16th and the present 18th Congress.

Gonzales, a lawyer from the Ateneo de Manila University, also expressed his appreciation to the people of Mandaluyong City for the trust and confidence they have been extending him in his almost three decades in public service.

Also, seeking for reelection are Quezon City Rep. Anthony Peter “Onyx” Crisologo (first district); Precious Hipolito-Castelo (second district); and Allan Reyes (third dis-

trict). The alliance is also fielding Councilor Marvin Rillo as congressional candidate for the fourth district of Quezon City; Rose Lin as congressional candidate for the fifth district; and former Rep. Bingbong Crisologo as congressional candidate for the sixth district.

Meanwhile, the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) has expressed strong support behind former President and Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s decision to run again for Congress in next year’s election. Mrs. Arroyo filed her COC for represen-

tative of the Second District of Pampanga.

Bukidnon Governor Jose Maria Zubiri also submitted his COC for Bukidnon’s Third District.

Well-known personalities have also filed their COCs to seek congressional seats. These personalities include Richard Gomez for Leyte, Richard Yap for Cebu and Anjo Yllana for Camarines Sur. Meanwhile, as of October 5, 71 party-list groups representing different sectors have also filed their COCs for next year’s elections.

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Thursday, October 7, 2021

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Fuel prices skyrocket across Asia as global energy crunch deepens O

Oil extends gain from 7-year high on global energy crunch

A

sian buyers are paying top dollar for a variety of fuels that can be fed into steam boilers or power turbines as they seek alternatives to increasingly pricey natural gas.

The electricity crisis is roiling energy markets from Europe to Asia, with fuels that can be used for heating or power generation such as propane, diesel and fuel oil in high demand. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. predicts the crunch will drive greater consumption of crude later this year, while China has ordered state-owned firms to secure energy supplies for winter at all costs.

In Asia, prices of propane—an oil product that’s typically used for cooking or making plastics— have surged to the highest since at least 2016, while fuel oil recently almost doubled from a year earlier. Refiners are getting a boost from the crisis, with profits from

converting oil into diesel at the highest since January 2020, before the pandemic eviscerated demand.

The power crunch has been caused by surg ing pr ices for electricity feedstocks like coal and liquefied natural gas. The cost of the super-chilled fuel in Asia has jumped to a record, although that hasn’t discouraged China from buying in its pursuit of energy security. Saudi Aramco estimates the gas crisis has already increased oil demand by around 500,000 barrels a day, while Goldman sees consumption climbing even higher.

Tighter suppl ies of l ique fied petroleum gas—which includes propane and butane—

h a v e c o nt r i b ut e d t o h i g h e r pr ices. US sh ipments to A si a plu nged more t ha n 30 percent i n September f rom a mont h earlier to the lowest level since Febr u a r y, sa id Serena Hu a ng , A si a lead a na lyst at Vor te x a Ltd. Top LPG suppl ier Saud i A rabi a has a lso h i ked pr ices to t he h ighest in seven yea rs.

“LPG purchases from Asian importers will likely pick up ahead of winter,” said Sam Sng, a senior analyst at industry consultant FGE. Inventories in Japan are “fairly low,” while demand for blending LPG with LNG will increase in South Korea over the next few months, he added.

Fuel oil inventories are also dwindling. Typically used to power ships or as an emergency backstop for natural gas, stockpiles at the storage hub of Singapore have shrunk to the lowest level in two years. Pakistan and Bangladesh have been key buyers in the region, snapping up supplies to replace costlier LNG, which has helped to underpin improving margins for making fuel oil.

South Asia will generate about 85,000-to-90,000 barrels a day of incremental fuel oil demand from October through to March 2022, mostly from the power generation sector, according to Sandra Octavia, an analyst at Energy Aspects Ltd. Japan—the epicenter of a fuel oil buying frenzy last winter—is likely better prepared with its energy supplies this year, however.

Stockpiling for winter heating is also boosting kerosene demand, said Victor Shum, vice president of energy consulting for IHS Markit.

The overall demand surge may boost Singapore benchmark complex refining margins by about $3.10 a barrel in the fourth quarter, from a year earlier, he added.

China’s diesel consumption surged last winter as factories rushed to install portable generators to ensure plants remained open during power shortages, and that trend is likely to continue this year. Demand in Europe has soared, widening the price gap with Asia, while Indian exports of the fuel have jumped to the highest level in four months. Bloomberg News

il extended gains after rallying to a seven-year high as the market continued to tighten amid a global energy crunch.

Futures in New York climbed toward $80 a barrel after jumping almost 6 percent over the past four sessions. Prices closed at the highest since 2014 on Tuesday as surging natural gas prices spurred greater demand for crude and oil products ahead of winter.

At a meeting on Monday, Opec+ stuck with a gradual increase in supply, despite the worsening energy crisis.

Saudi Aramco, which says the gas crunch is already boosting oil demand, cut prices for all its crudes destined for Asia after the Opec+ decision. At least four Asian buyers will request full supply of November-loading cargoes, according to people at refineries who asked not to be identified due to the sensitivity of the negotiations. The nominations are due on Wednesday.

The economic recovery from the pandemic along with a supply disruption in the Gulf of Mexico following Hurricane Ida have also contributed to the tightening market. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. predicted an extra 650,000 barrels a day of demand later this year as

utilities wrestling with high natural gas prices switch to oil, while spiking coal prices have added to the energy squeeze.

“The tight supply outlook and the extra oil demand coming from countries in Europe and Asia in search of alternative fuels due to the global energy crunch have pumped up prices,” said Kim Kwangrae, senior commodities analyst at Samsung Futures Inc. “Oil at $80 will become a psychological burden for some investors, potentially driving a sell-off if the American government data shows crude inventories have climbed as per expectations.”

The prompt timespread for Brent was 76 cents a barrel in backwardation—a bullish structure where near-dated contracts are more expensive than laterdated ones. That compares with 78 cents on Monday.

The American Petroleum Institute, meanwhile, reported oil inventories climbed by almost 1 million barrels last week, according to people familiar. If confirmed by government data Wednesday, it would be a second weekly gain. US gasoline stockpiles rose by around 3.7 million barrels, while distillate inventories grew by 345,000 barrels, the API said. Bloomberg News

New Zealand central bank European industry seen buckling under worsening energy squeeze raises key interest rate

W

ELLINGTON, New Zealand—New Zealand’s centra l bank raised interest rates for the first time in more than seven years on Wednesday, removing some of the support it put in place when the coronavirus pandemic began.

The Reserve Bank raised the benchmark rate to 0.5 percent from a record low 0.25 percent.

The move came despite an ongoing lockdown in Auckland, its largest city, due to a coronavirus outbreak.

The bank said the lockdown had badly affected some Auckl a nd businesses but a broad range of indicators pointed to New Zea land ’s economy performing strongly overall. It said inf lation was expected to rise to 4 percent in the short term before easing to 2 percent in the medium term.

The last interest rates move by the bank was a cut of 0.75 percentage points in March 2020, when the pandemic was first taking hold.

Earlier this week, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced a cautious plan to ease the lockdown restrictions, acknowledging what other countries did long ago: It can no longer completely get rid of the coronavirus.

Since early in the pandemic, New Zealand had pursued an unusual zero-tolerance approach to the virus through strict lockdowns and aggressive contact tracing.

The strategy kept outbreaks largely in check. While the country has kept its borders mostly closed, domestic business activity and trade have suffered less than in many other countries.

“The RBNZ’s decision to begin its hiking cycle while Auckland is still in lockdown highlights that the New Zealand economy is on the brink of overheating,” Capital Economics said in a commentary.

It said it expects further rate hikes in coming months.

S h a res fe l l We d nesd ay i n New Z ea l a nd a f ter t he h i ke was a nnou nced. Bloomberg News

Political brinkmanship brings US closer to default

D

emocrats and Republicans must decide in the next day or two how far to take their deadlock over the US debt limit, which is pushing the country perilously close to a catastrophic default.

Wall Street strategists are taking notice of the political turmoil, warning there is growing danger for financial markets as the clock ticks closer to October 18, the date by which Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen expects the country to reach its limit on sovereign debt.

A debt ceiling breach is getting “a little too close for comfort,” TD Securities strategists Priya Misra and Gennadiy Goldberg wrote in a note to clients Tuesday.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer will force a vote Wednesday—his third try in nine days— on whether to take up a measure suspending the nation’s debt ceiling until December 2022.

Republicans, as they did the last two times, promise to block him.

“We’re not voting in any way to help raise the debt ceiling,” said Senator Mitt Romney of Utah, a Republican who sometimes works with Democrats. “As a group we are all together.”

Schumer on Tuesday again rejected using a time-consuming legislative approach, called reconciliation, which would allow Democrats to raise the debt ceiling without Republican support.

“Reconciliation is a convoluted and risky process, with default and downgrade hovering over us,” Schumer said.

Traditionally, suspending or raising the debt ceiling has received, bipartisan support. This time, Schumer argued, Republicans should at least “get out of the damn way” and not filibuster Democrats’ efforts.

Republicans, however, have

E

uropean industry is being pushed closer to breaking point as the region’s energy crisis worsens by the day.

Power and gas prices are hitting fresh records almost daily, and some energy-intensive companies have temporarily shut operations because they’re becoming too expensive to run. As winter approaches and Europeans start to turn on their heaters, the squeeze will intensify, pushing more executives into tough decisions about keeping plants open.

Ammonia producer SKW Stickstoffwerke Piesteritz GmbH is among those that’s been forced into drastic steps. The German company, which burns through 640 gigawatt hours of natural gas each year, equivalent to about 50,000 households, said Tuesday it will cut production by 20 percent to offset rising gas prices.

“It doesn’t make sense to make ammonia at these price levels,” said Chief Executive Officer Petr Cingr. “A complete production stop looms if the government doesn’t act.”

His warning was echoed the

same day in the UK, where the Energy Intensive Users Group called on the government to roll out emergency measures or face businesses shutting down this winter.

The crisis ripping through the region is the result of a supply crunch tangled up with a burst in demand after the Covid-19 pandemic. It threatens to put the brakes on the economic rebound by jacking up business costs and household energy bills, sending inflation to multi-year highs.

Many companies are trying to increase their energy efficiency, but any gains are being overwhelmed by the extent of the cost surge. The damage will worsen if the crisis evolves from a price shock to shortages, and more industrials have to take the dramatic step of flicking the “off ” switch.

There’s even a risk that governments intervene directly, as has happened in China. That could involve restrictions on industrial energy consumption to conserve dw ind ling supplies and keep homes heated over winter, especially at Christmas.

“It’s really scary,” said Carsten

Rolle, head of the energy department at Germany’s BDI industry association. “The price rises make you dizzy.”

Last month, CF Industries Holding Inc., a major fertilizer maker, halted operations at two UK plants, citing high natural gas prices. Austria’s Borealis AG and Norwegian chemical firm Yara International ASA have also reduced output.

These measures will affect other industries, such as agriculture, adding to pressure on food prices. More widespread shutdowns would dent economic growth and put jobs at risk.

Options to alleviate the spikes seem to be limited. On the supply side, not much relief is expected from major natural gas producers, which have held back flows for their own domestic needs.

The longer the crisis drags on, the greater the chance of all-out supply shortages.

German giant BASF SE is already preparing for that, and says it’s secured long-term contracts with a range of gas providers to avoid getting hit by a crunch at

any one supplier. The company’s Ludwigshafen facility, Europe’s largest chemical plant, has been designated “systemically relevant”

by Germany’s grid operator, meaning its electricity supply wouldn’t be cut off in order to protect public supplies.

The impact of record gas, electricity and carbon prices has been greater on small and medium industrial producers, which have fewer financial protection options and are more exposed to volatility.

A lready hurt by coronavirus lockdowns, many of Germany’s smaller firms decided against securing long-term energy supplies earlier this year and can’t afford to catch up now as gas prices are so high, according to Andreas Loeschel, professor of resource economics at RuhrUniversity Bochum.

“So much depends on the demand side of the equation,” he said, referring to the potential for a colder-than-expected winter.

“A number of unlikely events are building up to cause a situation we’ve never seen before.”

not been swayed and Democrats might soon lose altogether the option of reconciliation, if they haven’t already.

“I do not think it is possible on a timeline that would not jeopardize the full faith and credit of the United States,” Senator Mark Warner, a Virginia Democrat, said Tuesday.

A GOP aide said Democrats still have time for reconciliation, which two former Republican budget officials said could be accomplished in about two weeks, but they would have to kick start the process Wednesday or Thursday.

Reconciliation, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell has said, is the only option because Republicans will not agree to raise the debt as Democrats negotiate President Joe Biden’s costly tax and spending plan.

“They’ve had plenty of time to execute the debt ceiling increase and have chosen not to do it,” McConnell told reporters after a closed-door meeting of Senate Republicans. McConnell insisted there was still time.

Biden said Tuesday evening that a “real possibility” is for Democrats to temporarily and unilaterally change Senate rules to head off a

Republican filibuster and pass a debt suspension with Democratic votes. Senator Joe Manchin, a West Virginia Democrat, however, has opposed altering the filibuster rule and Schumer when asked about it simply said he’s focused on tomorrow’s vote and that it’s the best way to resolve the matter.

On Wednesday, the president will lead a meeting of chief executive officers and other business people “on the need to immediately address the debt limit and the damaging consequences for American families, small businesses, and the economy if unnecessary delay continues any further,” The White House said on Tuesday night.

and Erik Nelson told their clients.

The stock market’s benchmark S&P 500 plunged about 15 percent during that earlier imbroglio, though the slide was likely exacerbated by worries over the ongoing European sovereign debt crisis, the Wells Fargo analysts wrote.

Investors in Treasury debt maturing around the potential default date are already demanding compensation for the risk in the form of higher bill yields. Longerdated bills normally pay higher rates than shorter ones, but midOctober and early November maturities now have higher yields than ones maturing later.

Deirdre Dunn, managing director and co-head of global rates at Citigroup said on a Brookings Institution panel Tuesday that the bank has seen recent dislocations for Treasury bills maturing in the window by as much as 20 to 25 basis points.

“I would expect increasing skittishness each day that goes by without resolution or at a minimum, meaningful change in tone” Dunn said.

federal debt—which was suspended for t wo years dur ing the Trump administration—occurred when Republicans controlled the W hite House and Congress.

Nonetheless, Republican leaders predict a united vote that will block Schumer from advancing House-passed debt ceiling legislation on Wednesday.

Senator Lisa Murkowski, an Alaska Republican, said she was wavering and wants to help find a way to defuse the situation.

“We just have to ensure that we don’t even come close” to default, she said.

Still, Republicans weren’t talking alternatives on Tuesday, beyond perhaps an agreement to shorten the time it would take to hike the debt limit using reconciliation, which would include two rounds of unlimited amendments on the Senate floor.

One idea could involve agreeing in advance on a short list of amendments or even allowing senators to leave town while the clock ticks down, said one GOP aide. The Senate is scheduled to take a weeklong break next week. Bloomberg News

Markets wait

Financial markets, however, could soon feel the consequences of the looming default.

The brinkmanship could spark a stock sell off, as occurred during a 2011 debt-limit impasse that led S&P Global Ratings to downgrade US debt, even though the US never defaulted.

“The risk this debt-ceiling showdown roils markets like it did in 2011 is underappreciated,” Wells Fargo strategists Zachary Griffiths

GOP united front

Much of the recent increase in

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EU leaders discuss defense, US and China relationships

French Senator Alain Richard, second from right, is escorted by a Taiwanese official upon arrival at Taoyuan International Airport in Taiwan on October 6. Richard leads a group of French senators to Taiwan for a five-day visit Wednesday following a large Chinese show of force with fighters jets amid the highest tensions in decades between China and Taiwan.

Central News Agency/Photo via AP

French senators arrive in Taiwan amid highest tensions with China

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AIPEI, Taiwan—A group of French senators arrived in Taiwan for a five-day visit Wednesday following a large Chinese show of force with fighter jets amid the highest tensions in decades between China and Taiwan.

T he group, led by Senator Alain Richard, will meet with President Tsai Ing-wen, Taiwanese economic and health officials and the Mainland Affairs Council. Richard, a former French defense minister, previously visited Taiwan in 2015 and 2018, according to Taiwan’s semi-official Central News Agency, and heads the Taiwan Friendship group in the French senate.

China tried to discourage Richard’s visit, with its embassy in France saying ahead of the trip: “It will not only damage China’s core interests and undermine China-French relations, but will also damage France’s own reputation and interests.”

China claims self-ruled Taiwan as its own territor y and therefore opposes any international engagement with the

island such as visits by foreign government officials. It also has aggressively poached Taiwan’s remaining diplomatic allies.

In its most recent display of sustained military harassment, China flew fighter jets 149 times toward Taiwan over four days from Friday to Monday. The White House called the flights risky and destabilizing, while China responded that the US selling weapons to Taiwan and its ships navigating the Taiwan Strait were provocative.

Taiwan’s defense minister Chiu Kuo-cheng told legislators Wednesday that the situation “is the most severe in the 40 years since I’ve enlisted.” Chiu was answering questions as the legislature decides whether to approve a special budget for air and naval defense purchases.

China and Taiwan split amid civil war in 1949. Today they have extensive trade and investment ties but no official relations, and China has increasingly mobilized militar y, diplomatic and econom ic pressu re to u nder m ine Ts a i ’s i nde p e nde nce -le a n i ng ad m inist rat ion. AP

US and France edge closer toward rapprochement after AUKUS spat

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ARIS—France and the United States edged closer Tuesday toward rapprochement after the Biden administration’s exclusion of Washington’s oldest ally from a new Indo-Pacific security initiative ignited French anger.

French President Emmanuel Macron and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met in Paris to explore ways to overcome the rift over the deal, which scuttled a multibillion-dollar French submarine contract with Australia and led Macron’s government to take the unprecedented step of recalling its ambassador to the US. In a French television interview after the meeting with Macron, Blinken accepted a US share of responsibility for the disagreement.

“We could and we should have communicated better,” Blinken said, speaking in French. “We sometimes tend to take for granted a relationship as important and deep as the one that links France and the United States.”

Macron and Blinken explored potential US-French cooperation in the Indo-Pacific and other areas in the roughly 40-minute one-onone session, according to a senior US State Department official.

Shortly after their engagement, the White House announced in a statement that President Joe Biden’s national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, would meet his French counterpart, Emmanuel Bonne, in Paris later this week “as part of our ongoing consultations on shared bilateral and regional interests.”

Macron and Blinken’s meeting was the highest-level in-person contact between the two countries

since the controversy erupted last month with the Sept. 15 announcement of a three-way agreement between Australia, Britain and the US, known as AUKUS, that pointedly left out France and other European nations.

The State Department official said the two discussed possible joint projects that could be announced

by Macron and President Joe Biden when they meet this month at a specific date and venue that has yet to be decided. Macron and Biden agreed to try to repair the damage in a September 22 phone call.

The White House statement said Sullivan and Bonne would further explore those projects in “preparations for the meeting of President Biden and President Macron in Europe later this month.”

The State Department official didn’t elaborate on what those projects might be, but said they would likely involve the Indo-Pacific and Western efforts to blunt China’s growing there and elsewhere, NATO and other trans-Atlantic objectives involving the European Union, and counterterrorism cooperation in Africa’s Sahel region.

The official said Macron and Blinken had agreed to use the spat as an opportunity to “deepen and strengthen coordination” and characterized the talks as “very productive,” while allowing that “a lot of hard work remains ahead.”

The official spoke to reporters on condition of anonymity to discuss the closed-door talks between Macron and Blinken at the Elysee Palace that hadn’t appeared on Blinken’s official schedule for the day. AP

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RDO CASTLE, Slovenia— European Union leaders met for the first time Tuesday since the messy Western troop withdrawal from Afghanistan and France’s loss of a multibillion-dollar submarine deal with Australia, events that they argue have exposed Europe’s need for more autonomy on defense.

With the 27-nation trade bloc’s tense relationship with China and rising energy prices also on the agenda, they had plenty to discuss during their dinner at Brdo Castle in Slovenia. They have a summit with leaders from neighboring Balkans countries scheduled Wednesday.

The informal talks were intended to prepare the ground for an EU summit later this month in Brussels and a March meeting focusing on European defense.

The dinner focused on the role of the European Union on the international scene in light of recent geopolitical developments, including the situation in Afghanistan and the AUKUS submarine deal.

“Drawing the lessons of recent crises, we are committed to consolidating our strengths and strengthening our resilience by reducing our critical dependencies,” EU Council President Charles Michel said after the meeting. “To become more effective and assertive on the international stage, the European Union needs to increase its capacity to act autonomously.”

The Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan and the rushed airlift operation that followed the US decision to pull out have laid bare the EU’s dependency on its ally.

Without American support, European countries wouldn’t have been able to guarantee the safe exit of

their citizens or even their troops this summer.

The Indo-Pacific defense deal between the US, Australia and Britain that led Australia to cancel the contract for diesel-electric French submarines has contributed to more frustration in the EU camp over the US unilateral moves.

Australia is acquiring US nuclear-powered vessels instead of the French submarines. The Australian government’s move has infuriated France, which is seeking clarification from Washington about its commitment to European allies. Several EU member countries have expressed solidarity with France.

French president Emmanuel Macron and US President Joe Biden have discussed the rift over the phone to ease tensions, and Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Macron in Paris on Tuesday to try to restore the French government’s trust.

The chief of the EU’s executive branch, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen spoke with Biden by phone on the eve of the summit. Von der Leyen said they discussed climate change, defense, trade, the western Balkans and other geopolitical issues.

Macron is now ca l l ing on France’s EU allies to use the bloc’s shortcomings in Afghanistan and the fallout of AUKUS as a spring-

Front row left to right, Slovenia’s Prime Minister Janez Jansa, European Council President Charles Michel, French President Emmanuel Macron and Lithuania’s President Gitanas Nauseda pose with other EU leaders during a group photo at an EU summit, at the Brdo Castle in Kranj, Slovenia on October 5. EU leaders are meeting Tuesday evening to discuss increasingly tense relations with China and the security implications of the chaotic US-led exit from Afghanistan, before taking part in a summit with Balkans leaders on Wednesday. AP/Darko Bandic

board for developing European capabilities while at the same time strengthening ties with the US. “On the technological and industrial, economic, financial, but also military levels, we must build the terms of a stronger Europe,” Macron said. “You know that this is what I deeply believe. A Europe that can take its share [of responsibilities] for itself and which can choose its partners and work closely with its historical allies. And I think it’s important that we can discuss this tonight in a geopolitical context that is increasingly in turmoil.”

Michel also advocates more strategic autonomy through a partnership between the European Union and NATO. “NATO is a security pillar on which we rely, and at the same time we see that we need to be able to act more autonomously to make our alliances stronger,” Michel said. “Strong allies make strong alliances.”

The 27 leaders also discussed their relation with China, a theme they have not tackled as a group for over a year. Since their last talks,

the bloc adopted a massive investment deal with Beijing but also approved sanctions against Chinese officials over human rights abuses in the far western Xinjiang region.

“We will also pursue our own interests, in particular vis-a-vis China, which we consider as a competitor, a partner and a systemic rival,” Michel said.

Hours before the leaders’ dinner, police fired tear gas and water cannons at anti-government protesters in Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana, located about 30 kilometers away.

Hundreds of protesters showed up to oppose the Slovenian government’s pandemic restrictions. The demonstration was not directly linked to the EU summit, but protest leaders apparently sought the opportunity to get more media attention from foreign reporters covering the event.

At the Renaissance-style fortified palace that was used by the late Yugoslavia President Josip Broz Tito as a summer residence, leaders enjoyed a full-course dinner with trout, gnocchi filled with white cheese and beef cheek. AP

Physics Nobel rewards work on climate change, other forces

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TOCKHOLM—Three scientists won the Nobel Prize in physics Tuesday for work that found order in seeming disorder, helping to explain and predict complex forces of nature, including expanding our understanding of climate change.

Syukuro Manabe, originally from Japan, and Klaus Hasselmann of Germany were cited for their work in developing forecast models of Earth’s climate and “reliably predicting global warming.” The second half of the prize went to Giorgio Parisi of Italy for explaining disorder in physical systems, ranging from those as small as the insides of atoms to the planet-sized.

Hasselmann told The Associated Press that he “would rather have no global warming and no Nobel Prize.’’

Manabe said that figuring out the physics behind climate change was “1,000 times” easier than getting the world to do something about it. He said the intricacies of policy and society are far harder to fathom than the complexities of carbon dioxide interacting with the atmosphere, which then changes conditions in the ocean and on the land, which then alters the air again in a constant cycle.

He called climate change “a major crisis.”

T he prize comes less than four weeks before the start of high-level climate negotiations in Gl asgow, Scot l a nd, where world leaders will be asked to ramp up their commitments to curb global warming.

The Nobel-winning scientists used their moment in the limelight to urge action.

“It’s very urgent that we take very strong decisions and move at a very strong pace” in tackling global warming, Parisi said. He made the appeal even though his share of the prize was for work in a different area of physics.

All three scientists work on what are known as “complex systems,” of which climate is just one example. But the prize went to two fields of study that are opposite in many ways, though they share the goal of making sense of what seems random and chaotic so that it can be predicted.

Parisi’s research largely centers around subatomic particles, predicting how they move in seemingly chaotic ways and why, and is somewhat esoteric, while the work by Manabe and Hasselmann is about large-scale global forces that shape our daily lives.

T he judges said Manabe, 90, a nd Hassel ma nn, 89, “ l a id t he fou nd at ion of ou r k nowledge of t he Ear t h ’s c l imate and how

hu ma n act ions inf luence it.”

Starting in the 1960s, Manabe, now based at Princeton University, created the first climate models that forecast what would happen as carbon dioxide built up in the atmosphere.

Scientists for decades had shown that carbon dioxide traps heat, but Manabe’s work offered specifics. It allowed scientists to eventually show how climate change will worsen and how fast, depending on how much carbon pollution is spewed.

Manabe is such a pioneer that other climate scientists called his 1967 paper with the late Richard Wetherald “the most influential climate paper ever,” said NASA chief c l imate modeler Gav in Schmidt. Manabe’s Princeton colleague Tom Delworth called Manabe “the Michael Jordan of climate.”

“Suki set the stage for today’s climate science, not just the tool but also how to use it,” said fellow Princeton climate scientist Gabriel Vecchi. “I can’t count the times that I thought I came up with something new, and it’s in one of his papers.”

Manabe’s models from 50 years ago “accurately predicted the warming that actually occurred in the following decades,” said climate scientist Zeke Hausfather of the

Breakthrough Institute. Manabe’s work serves “as a warning to us all that we should take their projections of a much warmer future if we keep emitting carbon dioxide quite seriously.”

“I never imagined that this thing I would begin to study has such a huge consequence,” Manabe said at a Princeton news conference. “I was doing it just because of my curiosity.”

About a decade after Manabe’s initial work, Hasselmann, of the Max Planck Institute for Meteorology in Hamburg, Germany, helped explain why climate models can be reliable despite the seemingly chaotic nature of the weather. He also developed ways to look for specific signs of human influence on the climate.

Meanwhile, Parisi, of Sapienza University of Rome, “built a deep physical and mathematical model” that made it possible to understand complex systems in fields as different as mathematics, biology, neuroscience and machine learning.

His work originally focused on so-called spin glass, a type of metal alloy whose behavior long baffled scientists. Parisi, 73, discovered hidden patterns that explained the way it acted, creating theories that could be applied to other fields of research, too. AP

A8 Thursday, October 7, 2021 • Editor: Angel R. Calso

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editorial

‘Respect old age; it’s your future!’

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n “Elderly Rights Law” that China passed in 2015 mandated adult children to “never neglect or snub elderly people” and obliged them to visit their elderly parents often, regardless of how far away they live. The law said children who fail to make such trips to their elderly parents face potential punishment ranging from fines to jail time.

In Korea, people show respect to the elderly and celebrate them. For Koreans, the 60th and 70th birthdays are important life events, which are commemorated with extensive family parties and feasts. Like most countries in Asia, the universal expectation in Korea is that roles reverse once parents age, and it is the adult children’s duty, which is considered an honor, to care for their aging parents.

In the West, particularly in rich countries like the US and Britain, estranged parents are on the upswing. Their elderly live lonely lives, separated from their children and lifelong friends. As their health deteriorates, the elderly in these cultures often move to nursing homes, retirement communities, and assisted living facilities.

In the Philippines, we place a strong cultural value on respect for the elderly. Young people are expected to show respect to the elderly as well as older members of the family. As we are known for our close family ties, households in the Philippines are commonly made up of extended family members, which may include grandparents, parents, children, aunts, uncles, nephews, and nieces. We also show respect to the elderly in our actions—brushing grandmother’s teeth, changing grandfather’s sheets, or helping an elderly aunt transfer to her wheelchair.

On December 14, 1990, the United Nations General Assembly designated October 1 as the International Day of Older Persons every year.

We outdid the UN by institutionalizing a weeklong national celebration to give tribute to our senior citizens. As we culminate today this year’s Elderly Filipino Week celebrations (from October 1 to 7), we have to congratulate the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), which did a good job helping manage the event in partnership with the National Commission of Senior Citizens and other national government agencies, senior citizens associations, and local government units (LGUs).

This annual celebration started in 1994 by virtue of Proclamation 470 by President Fidel V. Ramos, declaring the first week of October of every year as Elderly Filipino Week. The proclamation aimed at increasing public awareness on the different issues concerning elderly Filipinos.

This year’s theme, “MahAlaga sina Lolo at Lola Ngayong Pandemya,” aims to underscore the contributions of our 10 million senior citizens in nation building, and seeks to raise awareness and address the issues concerning them, most especially in the time of the pandemic. The DSWD said this year’s celebration of the Elderly Filipino Week is significant as it serves as an encouragement for the Filipino elderly that there are ways for them to contribute to society, despite the limitations brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic.

An online activity led by the National Commission of Senior Citizens served as the kick-off event for the one-week celebration, followed by the social-media campaign on Healthy Ageing.

During times of isolation and quarantine, senior citizens need safe access to nutritious food, hygiene supplies, medicine, and other basic needs. As a community, it’s our duty to take care of our senior citizens and ensure that they remain safe and well looked after during these difficult times. Let’s all show some love and respect. As the saying goes, “Respect old age; it’s your future!”

The Water Tiger John Mangun

OUTSIDE THE BOX

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he year 2022 is set to be the year of the Water Tiger. From Karma Weather: “The New Year symbolizes determination, spontaneity, and novelty. It is a period which draws its strength despite adversity, from dynamism and enthusiasm. The Chinese Year 2022 is synonymous with unforeseen changes and surprising developments.”

I will definitely go with that last sentence. But also, “It is also a good time for all those who wish to forget their stormy past and find a legitimate place in society.” I am hoping in 2022 to find a legitimate place in a reclining chair at the Director’s Club of a nearby SM Cinema. Then I will know the pandemic is over or at the “live with it” stage.

However, 2021 is still far from being in the rearview mirror, so there is time to forecast the end of this year.

Robert Kiyosaki, author of Rich Dad Poor Dad, forecasts that a “gi-

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referred to its previous decision to add 400,000 barrels per day in November.

The US and India hoped soaring oil prices could persuade the group to offer more supply or lower prices. Much laughter was heard in the background at the Opec ministerial meeting.

Inflation? The US Cost of Living Adjustment for 2022, which could reach 6 percent, could be the highest since 1982. Economic growth? The International Monetary Fund expects global economic growth in 2022 to be 4.9 percent. But with global inflation rate forecast at 3.3 percent, real gross domestic product growth will keep the total world economic output at near 2018 levels.

Add to that data the impending bubble-bust in the Chinese real estate sector and bond market. Further we have the potential of some idiot —pick any country—pushing the wrong button on a warship/plane in the South China Sea region. The Water Tiger of 2022 could be extremely unforeseen and surprising.

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.

Emerging threat to OFWs’ mental and financial health: Online ‘sabong’

Since 2005

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ant” market crash is set to happen this month of October. He said on October 2 that the wheels are in motion for this to come about, and the price of gold, silver and Bitcoin will drop dramatically as a result. Kiyosaki: “This is going to be the biggest crash in world history. Any intervention from the Federal Reserve will not stop the pending market crash.” Well, that’s depressing.

Out of the UK comes Miles J, an abstract artist and “investor and trader” of Non-Fungible Assets and BTC. He also looks amazingly like

Jon Snow of Game of Thrones. He predicts that Bitcoin will reach $450,000 to $520,000 by December 25, 2021.

I can predict with 100 percent accuracy that there is at least a 50/50 chance that one of these gentlemen will be wrong. I will bet money on it.

At times I have been known to give forecasts for the future. On ANC yesterday I predicted that the Philippine Stock Exchange Index would be at the 8,000 area by end-2021 or early 2022.

Notice the “early 2022” and that is subject to revision in “early 2022” to “end second quarter 2022.” Can I say that my forecasts are “never wrong” even if not always right?

To the attributes of the Water Tiger, can we add “opportunistic”, even vengeful? Brent crude oil went from $70 in January 2020 to $28 in April as demand dropped. Not only was Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (Opec) plus Russia selling less oil but at a super low price. Joe Biden became US president and immediately turned the US into an oil importing country from a net exporter.

Now oil is back to 2018 levels ($80).

Opec said it “reconfirmed the production adjustment plan” after relatively swift ministerial talks. This

Susan V. Ople

Scribbles

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S a migrant rights’ advocate, I have always been approached for advice by overseas Filipino workers and their families. I thought that I have most of the topics for discussion covered, from contract violations to trafficking in persons, and mental health as well as gender-based violence issues. Yesterday, I learned about a new threat to the welfare of our overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), which caught me completely off guard. It was not in my list of pressing concerns.

The threat is online sabong.

According to Jet Fajardo, a Filipino working for the Cheonan Moyse Catholic Migrants Center in South Korea, online sabong has become a secret past time of several OFWs. The sabong or cockfight can be viewed live on Facebook, and bets can also be placed online with payments done electronically. These streamed gambling sites appear to have the imprimatur of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. , because the Pagcor logo is prominently displayed at the uppermost corner of the screen.

The prevalence of OFW participation in online sabong is such that a Filipino priest included this in his homily, to remind our workers to stay away from online gambling. In South Korea, a Filipina earned money from lending capital to online gamblers.

She herself was a player, and thus came to know other gamblers that patronize these online sabong plat-

forms. Thankfully, after a visit by members of the diocese, the loan shark/gambler reformed her ways.

Labor Attaché Resty dela Fuente, who is about to retire from the service, also flagged online gambling as an emerging concern among OFWs. He said that this vice is so difficult to stop since gambling is done in the privacy of one’s room or even just by using a mobile device. It is also too easy to access, enabling an addicted worker to gamble 24 hours a day. Though the numbers may still be low and difficult to ascertain, the seasoned labor attaché believes that more efforts should be underway to remind overseas workers about the dangers of gambling addiction.

Out of curiosity, I thought of searching for online sabong sites via Facebook, and it only took one click to see an entire list of available platforms. I could see why an OFW would find it entertaining to visit these

sites, but that kind of temporary amusement can easily lead to addiction and then depression as well as financial and family problems.

According to Jet, an OFW in South Korea recently thought of committing suicide as a way out of his gambling debts. He became addicted to online sabong while forced to stay home because of the pandemic. “At first he was exhilarated every time he won. Eventually, the OFW became so addicted that he started borrowing huge sums of money just to keep on playing. Unbeknown to his family, the worker is at risk of losing his job and being deported due to his huge debts and unstable mental condition.

It does not make sense for our government, especially during a global health crisis, to rake in revenues through a gambling scheme that victimizes its own citizens. Unlike casinos, where a concerned family member can report a loved one that has become a gambling addict so that person could be physically banned from entering the premises, there is no such safeguard in online gambling. Also, sabongs are so intrinsic to our Filipino culture so that making it online would surely attract so many OFWs who are lonely and looking for a diversion from work and homesickness.

In fact, one of the online gambling sites had 28,000 members while other smaller sites that cater specifically to online “sabungeros” have a built-in registration process before access to private groups is granted.

A check with PAGCOR’s website,

however, holds the answer as to why E-Sabong has been allowed. “To this date, after four months of regulating the industry, PAGCOR has already collected more than a billion pesos in fees from the licensed E-Sabong operators, which is a great help in augmenting the depleting coffers of the government to aid in its efforts in the Covid-19 pandemic response.”

The statement meant to remind the public to practice responsible gaming even when done online was posted last September 1.

As part of its regulatory framework, PAGCOR directs accredited online sabong operators to “strictly ensure that bets emanating from outside Philippine territory shall not be allowed and that streaming feeds for E-Sabong shall strictly be sourced live from invitational cockfighting derbies held in the Philippines and only from cock-pit arenas/venues duly licensed by local government units and registered with PAGCOR. I strongly urge the POEA to sit down with the labor department and our labor attaches to discuss ways to prevent more OFWs from falling into the abyss of online gambling.

Perhaps, there are bogus E-Sabong sites that continue to victimize our OFWs. Still, there has to be a better way for government to earn revenues without promoting E-Sabong sites for its citizens.

Susan V. Ople heads the Blas F. Ople Policy Center and Training Institute, a nonprofit organization that deals with labor and migration issues.

She also represents the OFW sector in the InterAgency Council Against Trafficking.

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Beijing Consensus vs PHL neo-liberalism: Four decades after Dr. Rene E. Ofreneo

LABOREM EXERCENS Part two

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he amazing success of China in posting an annual gross domestic product growth rate of almost 10 percent in four decades (1980-2019) has triggered a debate among Western economists on the superiority of the so-called “Beijing Consensus” over the “Washington Consensus” in the promotion of growth among developing countries.

The term Washington Consensus refers to the ideology of economic neo-liberalism, which, in essence, means pure or unadulterated worship at the altar of free trade. Neoliberalism became the dominant economic guide in the lending program of the Washington twins (World Bank and IMF) in the 1980s until the turn of the millennium. As outlined

by Dani Rodrik of the Harvard Kennedy School and John Williamson of the Institute for International Economics, the key policy components of the Washington Consensus are as follows: n Trade liberalization, n Openness to foreign investment, n Privatization, n Deregulation, n Financial liberalization, n Competitive exchange rate, n Fiscal discipline (austerity), n Tax reform (broadening the tax base as exemplified by the VAT and e-VAT), n Reorientation of public expenditures (away from subsidies), and n Property rights.

The above policies were made part of the package of policy conditionalities attached to the “structural adjustment loans” (SALs) given by the World Bank and the IMF to borrowing countries in the 1980s1990s. These policies were baptized as “structural adjustment programs” (SAP), for the idea was to re-shape the directions, if not the structure, of the whole economy, from an inward-looking to an export-oriented one. As the World Bank explained in the negotiation for the first SAL for the Philippines in 1979-1980, SAP would trigger a “full turn-around,” a turn-around that is dependent on the “reduction of import protection and broadening of export promotion” (World Bank, Industrial Development Strategy and Policies in the Philippines, Report 2513-PH, October 1979).

In short, the goal of the SAP architects was to further open up the Philippine economy, on the assumption that SAP would transform the economy into a vibrant and tigerish one. And yet, the opposite happened.

The SAP package in the early 1980s was debilitating for the economy. The peso devaluation and the belt-tightening measures adopted by the economic team of then Prime Minister Cesar Virata weakened the economy further and hastened the country’s lurch towards recession (1981-1982) and depression (1983-1985). The SAP program of agricultural deregulation, which meant the removal of farm subsidies, killed the Masagana 99 and the Marcosian dream of sustained rice surplus. And the Filipino business community was deeply wounded by the SAP. Fred Elizalde, President of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, openly attacked the SAP’s import liberalization program, interest rate deregulation (which rendered the anti-usury law meaningless) and tight monetary policy. He wrote that the foregoing SAP conditions were “more than Philippine industries can take under arduous global economic conditions” (Fred Elizalde, “The Commerce and Industry Sector,” Dialogue on the Financial Situation, Central Bank, 1982).

The series of SAL-supported SAP packages and their implementation under the Aquino, Ramos, Estrada and Arroyo Administrations barely improved the economic situation for the country. The growth-limiting impact of SAP (i.e., fiscal austerity,

withdrawal of farm subsidies, taxation, peso devaluation and interest rate deregulation) was accompanied by another growth killer: the policy conditionality imposed by the Washington twins and the members of the Consultative Group of Creditor Countries for the Philippines (which was renamed as the Philippine Aid Plan group) for the Philippines to honor the entire debt bequeathed by the Marcos regime and to faithfully service this debt as provided for under the Marcosian Presidential Decree 1177 come hell or high water.

Thus, the SAP decades of the 1980s and 1990s were literally lost decades for the country.

Now back to the Beijing Consensus (BC) versus Washington Consensus (WC), where do they differ? Is it not a fact that the goals of the “Open Door Policy” of the team of Deng Xiaoping were two-fold: one, to make China outward-looking or export-oriented and two, to integrate China into the global economic order?

A closer analysis of what China did in the 1980s-1990s and continues to do up to the present shows that the similarity between the WC and BC is only in relation to the twin goals of export orientation and global integration. In achieving these goals, China did not rely on the WC’s “market fundamentalisms”, that is, in the obsessive belief that the free interplay of market forces at the national and global levels will bring about the desired economic outcomes: more investments, more jobs, more exports and higher growth. WC tries to cut off the “visible hand” of the State in the market. In contrast, China was a firm believer of the role of the State, with the Communist Party at the center, in guiding development. As commentators from the Left worldwide put it, China’s economic development in the last four decades can be characterized as “CPP-led capitalist transformation,” although official Chinese propaganda keeps using the phrase “socialism with Chinese characteristics.”

In the debate on WC vs BC, some WC proponents argue that the debate is meaningless because China simply incorporated part of the WC package of economic liberalization and looking outward into the BC by following Deng Xiaoping’s rule: “feeling the stones when crossing the river”, meaning gradually adapting to the market while continuously innovating. However, as more facts and figures on BC pile up, it becomes abundantly clear that China’s economic model is an expansion of the East Asian developmental state, an interventionist state that is actively involved not only in the regulation of the market but also, and more importantly, in building up industrial capacity in a purposive manner even in areas where the country has no “comparative advantage.” Example: Japan had no CA in car making in the 1950s, and yet, it succeeded in becoming the global leader in car making by the 1970s.

Another example: South Korea had no CA in steel making in the 1960s, and yet, it became the most efficient steel producer in the 1990s. Development economists call this CA-defying process “Industrial Policy,” with a capital I and P. More on BC and IP in the next issue.

Dr. Rene E. Ofreneo is a Professor Emeritus of University of the Philippines.

For comments, please write to reneofreneo@ gmail.com.

Thursday, October 7, 2021 A9

A call from the voice within Dr. Carl E. Balita

Entrepreneurs’ Footprints

‘P

olitics is dirty. It is a hell on Earth. You don’t belong there.

We are not ready to see you destroyed by it. It is a dangerous lions’ den.”

These were the warnings and reactions when I generated my family’s and friends’ response to the invitations for me to join politics. These reactions weakened me. They made me reluctant. But the noise from the outside, both pushing me for and pulling me away from politics, is so loud that all I can hear was the voice from within. I prayerfully allowed the flow of events lead me to His will. Curating the forces around me, I ended up discovering the power within. Unleashing the difficult decision was caused by the discovery of the “big why.” The rest of my life’s history depends on His will expressed through the will of the people whose collective wisdom will choose leaders in our democracy. And the most important sign was permission granted by my family that required me to make them my moral compass.

“Politics must rest on a moral foundation that accords freedom to people for the sake of it.”

In the past, I received pushes for politics during past elections. Recently, I turned down two partylist nominations. But as a “man who is by nature a political animal” as in the words of Aristotle, I unleashed the beast within ready to rumble, anchored on the moral compass that worked for my half-a-century journey of having, being and becoming.

Here are the reasons why I decided to bid for the Senate as whispered by the voice from within.

Leading to change

I was born a leader, wanting and initiating change, always. My college days at the University of Santo Tomas were marked by leadership through my class presidency for four years.

Elected as president of the UST College of Nursing Student Council, I was nominated to be the president of the Central Council. Now I am president of the UST Nursing Alumni. And I have always assumed leadership positions in organizations I joined.

And the leader in me is always itching for change. Even change is changing in this pandemic, and we need leadership from new leaders with fresh perspectives.

Learned to lead

The lifelong learner in me prepares me for the future. Holding three professional licenses—as a nurse, midwife and professional teacher— grounds me with the two front-liners of this pandemic crisis, namely, health and learning crises. I pursued my Master of Arts in Nursing. For the part 20 years, I was privileged to host

a business talk show in DZMM and Teleradyo. It became my “university of life,” interviewing micro and small enterprises and I became a witness to their growth that made me evolve as an advocate for the MSMEs. The best lessons of my entrepreneurial life were derived from the lessons of my guests. My business success is measured not only by how I have expanded nationwide in 120 cities and even in other countries, but also by how I have served hundreds of thousands of aspiring professionals across various disciplines. I have led my business to its meaningful existence beyond profit, probably the explanation why I have been multiawarded in this line.

I hungered for international education, which prompted me to go to the Stanford University and National University of Singapore for an Executive Program in International Management, where I found myself as the only one from a developing country among 49 executives from 29 countries. With pride, I graduated with the highest honor. This is on top of my Doctor of Education from Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila and my Doctor of Humanities degree conferred by Lorma Colleges on the authority of the Commission on Higher Education.

Changing change

The pandemic presents various crises, with health, economic and learning being on top of the priority lists. I happen to be grounded on these three crises for being a health professional, for being an entrepreneur and advocate for the MSMEs, and for being an educated educator.

The biggest impact of the pandemic is upon the health frontliners, the survival entrepreneurs, and learning frontliners. These crises resonate with my being, my competencies, and my network.

The challenging time presents disruptions in the VUCAH world of the present, immediate, and intermediate future. The volatile, uncertain, complex, ambiguous and hostile world needs a shift with vision, understanding, clarity, agility and humanity. We cannot solve a problem with the same mindset that created it. The challenge is greater in the stage of recovery, and unless we are grounded, we are bound to just take the romanticized “new normal” as a forced reality rather than taking the opportunity to proactively co-create a “better normal.” Laws and government policies should be grounded to be more meaningful and adapt to the

The pandemic presents various crises, with health, economic and learning being on top of the priority lists. I happen to be grounded on these three crises for being a health professional, for being an entrepreneur and advocate for the MSMEs, and for being an educated educator. The biggest impact of the pandemic is upon the health frontliners, the survival entrepreneurs, and learning frontliners. These crises resonate with my being, my competencies, and my network.

irreversible disruption of our times and beyond.

Earlier than the pandemic disruption, humanity was bracing for the fourth industrial revolution.

The pandemic only accelerated technology’s power to affect how we live. I have always been amazed of technology and made sure that it is integrated in what I do in business, learning and living. The shift to embrace it was easy but the national pivot towards it will become a challenge given the vast resources and expertise needed for it. My education, network, and experience will come handy to contribute as we navigate this technological transformation.

Understanding meanings

The country needs grounded leaders to ensure that the recovery becomes more meaningful to those who suffered most and relevant for those who matter most towards national impact. The 3K slogan that I shall focus on shall be Kalusugan (health), Kabuhayan (livelihood) and Karunungan (education), leading to Kaunlaran (progress) for the Kabataan (young people). The other Ks follow, like Kayamanan (prosperity) Katahimikan (peace), Kalikasan (environment), and, Kasarinlan (independence).

Coming from these three Ks will make me grounded—with ears on the ground to not only listen but understand, heart to empathize to objectively engage, eyes to see their situation to envision the future, and the hand to guide as I belong with them.

The Kalusugan covers not only the positive practice environments of the health workers but the embattled health system which should also be overhauled to be relevant to the time and the recovery era we should start to envision and co-create, now. This includes the health care systems in the promotive, preventive, curative and rehabilitative levels, including our preparedness for the future health crises.

The Kabuhayan covers not only the MSMEs, which is 99 percent of all registered businesses, but also agriculture and the farmers, which remain to be one of the core strengths of the country. It should also cover economics, both in its macro and micro levels, the jobs and livelihood

of the people, including the creation of an enabling environment for entrepreneurs and overseas opportunities for the global Filipinos.

The Karunungan covers not only the teachers and the educators but also most importantly the learners who should be at the core of educational policies, and the entire embattled educational system across the trifocalized system. This also covers the formal, non-formal and informal learning within the Philippine Qualifications Framework and competencies of our people for the future world of work.

Connecting the dots

MY being grounded can simplify consultations and participative governance. The seven months on the campaign trails shall be dedicated to (and I have started to do) consultative webinars to co-create bills that I commit to file as I take the oath, if God permits.

I have been part of various organizations in health, business and education, whose leadership joined me in my nomination with Aksyon Demokratiko and who will join me in my filing of my Certificate of Candidacy along with Presidentiable Isko Moreno and VP aspirant Dr. Willie Ong. The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry including the local chamber of Quezon City, and the Philippine Franchise Association, and the Go Negosyo movement will be my most accessible compass for the business sector. Health Consultations will come easy considering the engagements that I have with the Philippine Nurses Association and other nursing sub-groups, the Philippine Medical Association, Philippine Hospital Association, Private Hospitals Association of the Philippines, the Philippine League of Government and Private Midwives, among others. I take pride in having been part of the PCCI Education Task Force, which gathers 15 educational luminaries who for the past months have been drafting the proposal for Innovations in Philippine Education.

Platforms are good but they are bound only to make promises. My preparedness to perform shall be anchored on a Roadmap that integrates the initial perspectives of the sectors that I wish to represent, the depth of my education and experiences, and the evidences that are available. I shall offer my self to the most powerful element of our democracy— our people, as an alternative to the politics that we have created out of the past choices we have made collectively as a Filipino people.

My name is Carl Balita responding to the call from within to uphold my character and demonstrate my competence to stand for my Conviction as we all have the choice to take this chance for change. And I trust and surrender that “He causes the changes of the times and the season, makes kings and unmakes them,” as indicated in the book of Daniel.

For feedback, please send e-mail to drcarlbalita@ yahoo.com.

Fire retardant could be ‘game-changer’ in fighting wildfires

By Keith Ridler Associated Press

B

OISE, Idaho—US officials on Tuesday approved a longlasting fire retardant that could significantly aid in fighting increasingly destructive wildfires by stopping them before they ever start.

The US Forest Service approved Perimeter Solutions’ fire retardant that is intended to be used as a preventative measure and can last for months.

It’s similar to the company’s reddyed retardant dropped from aircraft while fighting active wildfires, but it’s clear and sprayed by ground-based workers and equipment.

“The real game-changer here is once you treat it, you can forget it,” said Edward Goldberg, chief executive officer of St. Louis, Missouribased Perimeter Solutions. “It’s there for the whole year.”

The company said its primary use will be by industrial customers such as utility companies and railroads, but it can also be used to protect residential and commercial properties. It’s intended to be sprayed on vegetation, not homes themselves, but can be sprayed on such things as wood fences.

The company’s existing retardant is also used for that purpose, but can be problematic because it’s only effective until rain washes it away. Goldberg said the new product will remain effective even after a couple inches of rain, making the one-and-done application less expensive.

Cost, Goldberg said, depends on the topography and ranges from $7,000 to $15,000 per mile (1.6 kilometers) covering a 20-foot (6-meter) -wide strip.

Goldberg said the product will likely be most effective in the drier

climate of the US West, and could be applied in the spring to offer fire protection throughout the wildfire season. In July, it was applied to the grounds at former President Ronald Reagan’s coastal mountain ranch in the Santa Ynez mountains in California near Santa Barbara.

The company also said the new fire retardant had been applied at the start of the wildfire season along a fire-prone, 4-mile (6.5-kilometer) stretch of California’s Route 118.

That resulted in no fires that season, the company said, after the previous fire season saw 37 fires start along the same stretch of road.

Stanton Florea, a spokesman for the US Forest Service based at the National Interagency Fire Center in Boise, said the agency had no comment about its approval of the Perimeter Solutions’ fire retardant.

Goldberg said the new retardant has the potential to reduce the over-

all number of wildfires, freeing up firefighters that have been in short supply in recent years.

The fire center on its website said that so far this year, about 46,500 wildfires have burned 10,000 square miles (26,000 square kilometers).

Those numbers are at roughly the 10year average for number of wildfires and area burned.

Currenlty, there are 52 large wildfires, 18 of them in Idaho, nine in California and nine more in Montana.

The center is currently at National Preparedness Level 3, having dropped down from the maximum level 5 earlier this year when resources for fighting wildfires were hard to come by.

The center said that cooler, more favorable weather will pass through much of the Western US in the next several days, but that drought conditions still leave the region open for continued wildfire potential.

A10 Thursday, October 7, 2021

9-month rice imports tariffs take dips 2.2% to ₧13.26B

T

By Bernadette D. Nicolas

@BNicolasBM

ARIFFS collected by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) from the country’s rice imports have so far reached P13.26 billion, slightly lower than what was collected in the same period last year.

Rice tariff collection from January 1 to September 24 this year was down by 2.2 percent from P13.55 billion in the comparable period in 2020, preliminary data obtained by BusinessMirror showed.

Moreover, rice import volume in the same period settled at 2.007 million metric tons (MMT), a 3.5-percent year-on-year decline from 2.08 MMT. Meanwhile, Customs data also showed rice import volume and rice tariff collection began picking up in July until September 24 this year after four consecutive months of decline for both metrics from

March to June.

From September 1 to 24, rice tariffs collected amounted to P1.51 billion, rising by 13.1 percent from P1.33 billion in 2020. Likewise, rice import volume also rose to 258,237.46 metric tons (MT), jumping by 28.2 percent from last year’s 201,401.41 MT. The year-on-year decline in rice imports from January 1 to September 24 may be attributed to the record-level domestic rice harvest coupled with logistical problems due to global shipping problems such as lack of containers and vessels as well as high freight costs.

Due to the expected increase in rice production this year, the United States Department of Agriculture has projected that Philippine rice imports would decline by 14.28 percent to 2.1 MMT. Despite the contraction in volume, the Philippines will remain as the world ’s secondbiggest buyer of rice for the second consecutive year. The Department of Agriculture earlier expressed confidence that the country would be able to achieve its target of producing 20.4 MMT of palay this year, barring adverse weather conditions.

In May this year, President Duterte also signed Executive Order (EO) No. 135 to temporarily slash Most Favoured Nation (MFN) tariff rates for rice to 35 percent from 40 percent (in-quota) and 50 percent (out-quota) for a period of one year.

Malacañang earlier cited a need to lower tariff rates for rice imports to offset the expected 10-percent shortfall in the local supply of rice this year.

Finance Undersecretary Antonette C. Tionko said earlier they expected to lose P40.9 million in revenues due to the slash in rice import tariff rates until

May 2022. As of August 13, the government has lost P11.39 million for lowering the tariff rates on rice imports since the EO took effect last June.

Tariffs collected from rice imports are used to fund the P10-billion annual Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund to bankroll programs that provide farmers with high-quality seeds, machinery, easier credit access and relevant training. This is meant to improve their productivity and become competitive.

Should annual tariff revenues from rice imports exceed P10 billion, the Rice Tariffication Law (Republic Act 11203) mandates earmarking the fund by Congress— and included in the national budget of the following year—for financial assistance to palay farmers, titling of agricultural lands, an expanded crop insurance program on rice and crop diversification.

Last year, the government collected P15.47 billion from 2.38 million MT of rice imports.

In 2019, the rice tariff collection of the Bureau of Customs amounted to P12.3 billion from 2.03 million MT of rice imports from March to December following the passage of RA 11203.

RELEASE SALNS NOW, SOLON DARES DUTERTE, EXECS AFTER ‘PANDORA’

W

ITH the surfacing of the Pandora Papers, a deputy minority leader on Wednesday challenged President Duterte and his Cabinet members to publicly release their Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALN).

House Deputy Minority leader and Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Isagani Zarate hurled the challenge after the “Pandora Papers” exposed the financial secrets of politicians and public officials all over the world, including the Philippines.

“If you are not hiding anything, do not wait till your names are later on included in the Pandora Papers or on other similar exposè on the hidden wealth of the greedy powerful, rich or corrupt persons,” said Zarate. “[Transport] Sec. [Arthur] Tugade, for instance, claimed that he declared his offshore companies in his SALN yet he did not list down the details, not even the names of these companies.

For full transparency, it would be even better if they also sign a waiver to have their bank accounts scrutinized aside from releasing their SALN,” said the Davao-based solon.

Tugade had said on Tuesday that he made a full disclosure of his offshore assets in his SALNs, adding that all his wealth came from legitimate sources.

According to Zarate, full transparency and accountability from government officials, either elected or appointed ones, should be made a core issue in the coming May 2022 elections.

“As it is now, people cannot be blamed for thinking that Duterte and his cohorts enriched themselves in power and that is why they are hiding their SALNs up till now,” he added.

“Dubious schemes to hide ones assets and liabilities are also badges of corruption, as shown, for instance, in how the dictator Marcos and his cronies were able to amass hidden wealth, a large part of it yet to be recovered by the government,” Zarate said.

Earlier, Ombudsman Samuel Martires said he will not yield to pressure to release to the public the SALNs submitted by government officials, including President Duterte.

Since 2017, Duterte has not publicly released his SALN. Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz

Please join us for a Celebration of Life in loving memory of

recto L. mercene May 27, 1944 – October 2, 2021

Viewing

October 6, Wednesday 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM (Open to the public) Nacional Memorial Chapels 264 Gregorio Araneta Ave., Quezon City October 7, Thursday 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM (Open to the public) Nacional Memorial Chapels 264 Gregorio Araneta Ave., Quezon City

October 8, Friday 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM (Open to the public) 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (Viewing for BusinessMirror Group) 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM (Open to the public) Nacional Memorial Chapels 264 Gregorio Araneta Ave., Quezon City

Interment:

memorial service: October 16, Saturday Details to follow

Flowers and mass cards may be sent to: Nacional Memorial Chapels 264 Gregorio Araneta Ave., Quezon City

October 9, Saturday, 11:30 AM (Manila) October 8, 8:30 AM (Pacific time) 11:30 PM (Eastern time) Link for online services to follow

There are some who bring a light so great to the world, that even after they have gone the light remains...

The Mercene family is grateful for the outpouring of love for our beloved Recto. To ensure everyone’s safety during this time of grief, we ask that friends and family strictly adhere to health and safety protocols when paying their respects. Only 10 persons at a time scheduled at 15 minute intervals will be allowed inside the chapel. A link to interment services will be provided so we can all be together virtually and safely. We come not to say goodbye, but to thank him for being a part of our lives...

BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

No.

CAI, BOWANG Customer Service Representative Mandarin Speaking 1.

Brief Job Description: Build sustainable relationship of trust through open and interactive communication in Mandarin Speaking

LOC TANG SANG Customer Service Representative Mandarin Speaking 2.

Brief Job Description: Build sustainable relationship of trust through open and interactive communication in Mandarin Speaking

Basic Qualification: Knows how to recommend potential products or services to management by collecting customer information and analyzing customer needs

3.

Brief Job Description: Provides language translation support to the transition/transformation. Invoice and all related documents, comes to work on-time according to the define shift schedule, handles requests, incidents, and processes variety of orders within the defined expected number of transactions and quality level covering applicable language and English, records and tracks all activities using the prescribed tool.

Basic Qualification: Knows how to recommend potential products or services to management by collecting customer information and analyzing customer needs Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: College graduate; has a minimum of 4 years experience in telco procurement or telco procure-to-pay process; experience in telco order processing fluency in English; knowledge of an additional language (Spanish, German, Italian, French, etc.) on an advanced level is an advantage; computer literacy; skilled in using basic MS office applications.

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

ARORA, RAVI Technology Delivery Lead Assoc. Director

4.

Brief Job Description: Keep the technology business moving by building and leading high-performance teams. Tenacious and efficient. Drive profitability and continued success through managing service quality. Cost and leadership of the people delivering services across projects/programs/portfolios of all scale.

Proactively support sales through innovative solutions. Leading the execution of the solution plan and delivery excellence programs to achieve the delivery and commercial expectations of Accenture offerings.

12.

Basic Qualification: Manage end-to-end client infrastructure and information technology service delivery. Provide overall governance for the delivery model and manage the offshore delivery teams from Philippines to provide the it support. Ensure all sales are met as per the contract with client within the financial budget provided as per the deal solution. Report to the project status on regular basis to the Accenture leadership in the Philippines and highlight any potential risk with mitigation plan.

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

ZUO, YONG International Purchasing 13.

5.

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

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

6.

Brief Job Description: To assist customers regarding their queries, complaints and promotions.

KIM, SANGIL Customer Service Representative

7.

Brief Job Description: To assist customers regarding their queries, complaints and promotions.

LEE, SANGJIN Customer Service Representative

8.

Brief Job Description: To assist customers regarding their queries, complaints and promotions.

SEO, HYEMI Customer Service Representative

9.

Brief Job Description: To assist customers regarding their queries, complaints and promotions.

SHIN, SEOUNGMOK Customer Service Representative

10.

Brief Job Description: To assist customers regarding their queries, complaints and promotions.

SON, YONGHYEON Customer Service Representative

11.

Brief Job Description: To assist customers regarding their queries, complaints and promotions.

Basic Qualification: 21 years old and above, fluent in Korean language

14.

15.

FOGO, EDEN Multilingual Service Desk Member

16.

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

JONSTERHAUG, TOMMY MERCADER Multilingual Service Desk Member

Basic Qualification: Language proficient

Brief Job Description: To support multilingual service desk

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

Brief Job Description: Support Finacle Core Banking and enable integration with the new systems implemented by the Bank

17.

18.

YANG, HAIBIN Lead Estimator Brief Job Description: Project estimate, providing leadership

ZHAO, JIAWEN Quantity Surveyor Supervisor Brief Job Description: Project estimate, providing leadership

YE, TING Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 26.

Brief Job Description: Planning Activities, Organizing Projects and Monitoring Progress

FERRI FERDIAN Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 20.

Brief Job Description: Assist/Help Customers, Give Customers Information about Products and Services

CHENG, CHENG Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 21.

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

JIANG, JINLAN Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 22.

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

LEE SHEUT CHIN Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 23.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: 21 years old and above, fluent in Korean language

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

MA, JIAWEI Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 24.

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

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

YU, DEYONG Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 27.

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

ZHANG, YAN Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 28.

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

29.

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

Salary Range: Php 500,000 and above LIANG, JINTAO Chinese Speaking Program Designer 30.

Basic Qualification: Bachelor degree, well experienced, English & mandarin excellent Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Bachelor degree, well experienced, English & mandarin excellent

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

LIU, YONGZHENG Chinese Speaking Program Designer 31.

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

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 NING, XINCAI Chinese Speaking Program Designer 32.

Basic Qualification: College Graduate, Fluent in Mandarin and English, preferably 3-5 years project management experience.

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

CRONYX INC. No. 4th-10th Flr. Yinhope Bldg., Dela Rama Cor. Zoili Hilario St., Seascape Village, Ccp Complex Subd. Zone 10, Barangay 076, District 1, Pasay City

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

BOSS AUTOLAB INC. 4/f Ptc Building Dona Soledad Avenue Cor., Argentina Street Better Living Subdivision, Don Bosco, City Of Parañaque

Basic Qualification: Excellent knowledge of the FCBS system

COMMSEC INC. 2259, Aurora Blvd., Barangay 148, Pasay City

19.

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

HUANG, YUN Chinese Speaking Program Designer

CHINA INTERNATIONAL WATER AND ELECTRIC CORP. (BRANCH OFFICE) 1350 11/f Suite 1106 Ermita Center Bldg., Roxas Blvd., 072, Bgy. 668, Ermita, City Of Manila

Basic Qualification: 21 years old and above, fluent in Korean language

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

25.

Basic Qualification: Language proficient

Brief Job Description: To support multilingual service desk

KARLMARKS, CARL LEWIS SAJJAN FCBS Onsite Support Officer

Basic Qualification: 21 years old and above, fluent in Korean language

Basic Qualification: 21 years old and above, fluent in Korean language

Basic Qualification: College Graduate, 3 yrs experience in purchasing, knowledgeable in planning & forecasting system, read/write/speak English, Mandarin and other Chinese dialect fluently

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION XIE, LIMING Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer

CHINA BANKING CORPORATION 8745, Paseo De Roxas, San Lorenzo, City Of Makati

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

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

No.

CGI (PHILIPPINES) INC. 2/f One World Square, Mckinley Hill, Pinagsama, City Of Taguig

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: 21 years old and above, fluent in Korean language

Basic Qualification: College Graduate, 3 yrs experience in purchasing, knowledgeable in planning & forecasting system, read/write/speak English, Mandarin and other Chinese dialect fluently

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

ASIAN TECHNOLOGY SERVICES, INC. 11/f Tower 2, Double Dragon, Macapagal Blvd., Brgy. 076, Pasay City KIM, HANJO Customer Service Representative

Brief Job Description: To undertake all the international purchasing for boss Autolab Inc.

CUI, JIANHUA Project Manager Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months customer service experience/good in oral communication and written

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

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

ACE VELOCITY CONSULTANCY INC. 37/f Lkg Tower, 6801 Ayala Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati

ZHAO, SHIQI Chinese Speaking Technical Consultant

Brief Job Description: To undertake all the international purchasing for boss Autolab Inc.

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

ACCENTURE, INC. 7f, Robinsons Cybergate Tower 1, Pioneer St, City Of Mandaluyong

QUISPE SULLCARAY, ALEX HENRY Sw/app/cloud Tech Support Analyst

LIN, ZHUOJUN International Purchasing

A11

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

8 STONE BUSINESS OUTSOURCING OPC 5-10/f Tower 1, Pitx Kennedy Road, Tambo, City Of Parañaque

Thursday, October 7, 2021

QIAO, JINGJIE Chinese Speaking Program Designer 33.

Basic Qualification: Assist/Help Customers, Give Customers Information about Products and Services Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With atleast 6 months customer service experience / Good in oral communication and written

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

34.

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

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

ZHOU, WEI Chinese Speaking Program Designer 35.

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 Basic Qualification: With atleast 6 months customer service experience/good in oral communication and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With atleast 6 months customer service experience/good in oral communication and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With atleast 6 months customer service experience/good in oral communication and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With atleast 6 months customer service experience/good in oral communication and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With atleast 6 months customer service experience/good in oral communication and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With atleast 6 months customer service experience / Good in oral communication and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With Atleast 6 Months Customer Service Experience/ Good in Oral and Written Communication Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

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

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

ENERGY CHINA PHILIPPINES BRANCH OFFICE Unit 1718, High Street South Corporate Plaza Tower 1, Bonifacio Global, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

HUANG, YAXIONG Chief Technical Manager

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

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

WU, LEI Chinese Speaking Program Designer

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

Brief Job Description: Assist/Help Customers, Give Customers Information about Products and Services

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

36.

Brief Job Description: Organize and monitor all technical activities for various projects and ensure compliance to all objectives and prepare appropriate budgets and coordinate with various staff to ensure customer satisfaction. Prepare and maintain project budgets and ensure compliance to all project schedule and ensure optimal customer satisfaction.

Communicate and collaborate with other managers, suppliers, and contractors.

Basic Qualification: Ability to work in a highpressure, deadline-driven environment. Exceptional communication and reporting skills. Solid working knowledge in all required software and programming languages.

Outstanding leadership skills and ability to delegate responsibilities effectively.

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

BusinessMirror

A12 Thursday, October 7, 2021

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

HE, WENKE Chinese Accounting Manager 37.

Brief Job Description: Managing daily cash balances; Ensuring that cash flows are adequate to allow business units to operate effectively. Preparation of financial accounts and other reports based on accounting standards. Arranging financial audits and reviews as required.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Have fluent or Native Mandarin Traditional Chinese language skills in speaking, reading, and writing areas. Strong planning, problem-solving and organizational & time management skills and is able to prioritize and manage multiple tasks and deadlines. With good written and oral communication skills.

No.

MA, YUANLIN Technical Manager

49.

ZHOU, QING Logistics Manager 38.

Brief Job Description: Plan and monitor inbound and outgoing deliveries.

Supervise logistics, warehouse, transportation, and customer services. Organize warehouse, label goods, plot routes, and process shipments.

Research ideal shipping techniques, routing, and carriers.

CHENG, FANGUO Technical Manager

39.

Brief Job Description: Serve as the technical expert for detailed design and construction aspects of the project. Propose and oversee timelines for engineering proposals and submissions are met. Set up procedure and processes in monitoring and tracking of engineering related documentation throughout project lifestyle.

CUI, CHUNHUA Technical Manager

40.

Brief Job Description: Serve as the technical expert for detailed design and construction aspects of the project. Propose and oversee timelines for engineering proposals and submissions are met. Set up procedure and processes in monitoring and tracking of engineering related documentation throughout project lifestyle.

DONG, XIAOZHE Technical Manager

41.

Brief Job Description: Serve as the technical expert for detailed design and construction aspects of the project. Propose and oversee timelines for engineering proposals and submissions are met. Set up procedure and processes in monitoring and tracking of engineering related documentation throughout project lifestyle.

GENG, HAOWEN Technical Manager

42.

Brief Job Description: Serve as the technical expert for detailed design and construction aspects of the project. Propose and oversee timelines for engineering proposals and submissions are met. Set up procedure and processes in monitoring and tracking of engineering related documentation throughout project lifestyle.

HUANG, HUAN Technical Manager

43.

Brief Job Description: Serve as the technical expert for detailed design and construction aspects of the project. Propose and oversee timelines for engineering proposals and submissions are met. Set up procedure and processes in monitoring and tracking of engineering related documentation throughout project lifestyle.

HUANG, YAOHUA Technical Manager

44.

Brief Job Description: Serve as the technical expert for detailed design and construction aspects of the project. Propose and oversee timelines for engineering proposals and submissions are met. Set up procedure and processes in monitoring and tracking of engineering related documentation throughout project lifestyle.

JIANG, ZEGUO Technical Manager

45.

Brief Job Description: Serve as the technical expert for detailed design and construction aspects of the project. Propose and oversee timelines for engineering proposals and submissions are met. Set up procedure and processes in monitoring and tracking of engineering related documentation throughout project lifestyle.

LIANG, TAIJING Technical Manager

46.

Brief Job Description: Serve as the technical expert for detailed design and construction aspects of the project. Propose and oversee timelines for engineering proposals and submissions are met. Set up procedure and processes in monitoring and tracking of engineering related documentation throughout project lifestyle.

LU, KEYU Technical Manager

47.

Brief Job Description: Serve as the technical expert for detailed design and construction aspects of the project. Propose and oversee timelines for engineering proposals and submissions are met. Set up procedure and processes in monitoring and tracking of engineering related documentation throughout project lifestyle.

LU, SHAN Technical Manager

48.

Brief Job Description: Serve as the technical expert for detailed design and construction aspects of the project. Propose and oversee timelines for engineering proposals and submissions are met. Set up procedure and processes in monitoring and tracking of engineering related documentation throughout project lifestyle.

50.

51.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Ability to work in a highpressure, deadline-driven environment. Exceptional communication and reporting skills. Solid working knowledge in all required software and programming languages.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Ability to work in a highpressure, deadline-driven environment. Exceptional communication and reporting skills. Solid working knowledge in all required software and programming languages.

52.

Brief Job Description: Serve as the technical expert for detailed design and construction aspects of the project. Propose and oversee timelines for engineering proposals and submissions are met. Set up procedure and processes in monitoring and tracking of engineering related documentation throughout project lifestyle.

HE, WENTAO District Manager 53.

Brief Job Description: Acts as key liaison between the company’s headquarters and assigned area branches.

Responsible for management of operational practices, ensure budget and sales goals are achieved, and train and cultivate strong teams of branch managers.

LIU, WEN-CHIEH Mandarin Human Resource Specialist 54.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Ability to work in a highpressure, deadline-driven environment. Exceptional communication and reporting skills. Solid working knowledge in all required software and programming languages.

Brief Job Description: Responsible in answering customer question about product and services of the company

HONG, MEIMEI Marketing Staff Mandarin Speaking 55.

Brief Job Description: Monitor, review and report on all marketing activity and result

YE, YIHENG Chinese Marketing Officer 56.

Brief Job Description: Exclusively handles clients/accounts from Chinese/ Mandarin speaking company; Responsible in working on the data entry or information processing field and constantly updating a company’s data base with more current or accurate information

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

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

LI, NIANJUN Lte Optimization Wireless Network Expert For Wireless Expansion And Swap Projects

60.

Basic Qualification: Ability to work in a highpressure, deadline-driven environment. Exceptional communication and reporting skills. Solid working knowledge in all required software and programming languages.

SONG, QI Senior Telecom Service Solutions Product Manager For Philippines’ Third Operator Wireless Access Network Construction Project 61.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Ability to work in a highpressure, deadline-driven environment. Exceptional communication and reporting skills. Solid working knowledge in all required software and programming languages.

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

Basic Qualification: 5-10 years experience in supervisory position in industry-related field, multi-lingual Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

Basic Qualification: Proficiency in English, Mandarin and other multi-lingual language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

57.

Brief Job Description: Attends to customers’ inquiries and complaints regarding Philips products via phone calls and emails.

Brief Job Description: Understand the existing network and providing target solution; manage product related activities and coordinate between Huawei and our service provider accounts; build company image by collaboration enforcing ethical business practices; act as the solution project leader for regional projects

58.

Brief Job Description: Assist the delivery team in analyzing live network problems and designing feasible solutions; support clients to accelerate the construction of the fifth-generation fixed network services and the introduction of new technologies; and understand the business development strategies and network pain points of Philippine carriers

GONG, HUAJIANG Financial Manager For Huawei VMall E-platform Tools Development Project 59.

Brief Job Description: Responsible in collaborating with business management and support teams to ensure excellent implementation, delivery of customer value and positive business results

Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree holder; with at least 3 years experience working as product manager for sales and marketing management of site integration and service project; highly proficient in Chinese and English language Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

LIN, XIUHUA Chinese Accounting Director 62.

Brief Job Description: Promote and support the plans, programs and polices of Management. Able to commit in protecting the interests and prerogatives of Management.

Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Finance or related field. Proven knowledge of accounting regulations, practices and standards. Excellent communication and documentation capabilities. Experience streamlining accounting and business processes.

Attention to detail, organization and accuracy.

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

INTEGRITY GLOBAL GROUP, INC. 2/f-3/f Ayala Malls Circuit, A.p. Reyes Ave., Carmona, City Of Makati LIU, QINGFENG Mandarin Speaking Customer Service Representative 63.

Brief Job Description: Provide information about products and service, handle returns or complains, review or make changes to customer accounts

Basic Qualification: Good communications skills mandarin speaking and basic english, must be good to handle clients and customers Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

ITECHNO SPECIALIST INC. U-608 Eastfield Ctr., Moa Comp. Macapagal Ave., Brgy. 076, Pasay City SUGIANTO IT Support Specialist Brief Job Description: The IT Support Specialist (ITSS) is an integral member of the company infrastructure, Application Support, and of the IT Division and is responsible for providing quality IT support of enterprise systems throughout the Chinese clientele.

Basic Qualification: Can speak and read Cantonese, Mandarin, and Fukien language

Basic Qualification: Analyze the productivity of the marketing plans and projects, recommend optimization to senior management

64.

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

JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A.- PHILIPPINE GLOBAL SERVICE CENTER 23/f Net Plaza, 31st St. E-square Zone, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

Basic Qualification: Proven experience as marketing officer or similar role.

Solid knowledge of marketing techniques and principles. Good understanding of market research techniques, statistical and data analysis methods.

Excellent knowledge of MS Office and marketing software (e.g. CRM)

Basic Qualification: Strictly follow procedures and requirements outlined in addressing customer issues / requests.

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

HUAWEI TECHNOLOGIES PHILS. INC. U-5302, 53/f Pbcom Tower, 6795 Ayala Ave., Cor., V.a. Rufino St., Bel-air, City Of Makati

YU, JIANXIONG Account Access Network Planning And Marketing Senior Product Manager

Basic Qualification: With 3 years work experience of remote delivery of wireless RF scope work; with experience in LTE optimization skills, management skills, NR knowledge, E2E optimization E2e network planning. voice optiomization and drill, data optimization drill, 4G/5G coordination and crowdsourcing; have technical skills using GENEX cloud OMSTAR software to solve optimization issues.

HUAYI SERVICES INC. Gf C-118, Six Senses Residences, Metrobank Avenue, Metropolitan Park, Pasay City

DSOUZA, VEENA JOHN Control Manager 65.

Brief Job Description: Performs ongoing analysis of the business’ risk and control environment to identify significant gaps and weaknesses, and ensures that controls are properly designed

Basic Qualification: with at least 3 years work experience as project manager for network products and solutions planning and marketing activities; has skills in software for analyzing the weak optical power issue; and with a bachelor’s degree in material forming and controlling engineering

D’SOUZA, KIRAN JOSEPH Trading Services Manager Iii 66.

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

Basic Qualification: • Knowledge of the GFS businesses and product sets.

• Strong process orientation and attention to detail. • Good communication skills with the ability to work with others at all levels and across disciplines in a virtual organization.

• Ability to deal with issues on a global, cross business level • Knowledge of Alteryx, Qlikview or Tableau of benefit. (preferred)

Brief Job Description: Be part of AWM IPB operations team and will partner with global business-facing teams ensuring operations are compliant with required standards & all day to day deliverables are met.

Basic Qualification: At least 10-12 years of experience in financial services operations or investment banking or wealth management.

Securities operations experience is preferred.

Salary Range: Php 500,000 and above

KUEHNE + NAGEL, INC. 5/f 501h-507-508h, Five E-com Harbor Drive, Brgy. 076, Pasay City SOBRAL DE ARAUJO BRANCAGLION, HELENA Finance Director 67.

Brief Job Description: Reporting directly to the managing director (KN code: MNL NM) in the company and functionally to the Senior Vice President - Finance, Asia Pacific (KN code: SIN RF) of Kuehne + Nagel (Asia Pacific) Management PTE Ltd.

Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in finance or accounting, preferably CPA, CMA and CFA. More than 10 yrs. Experience in a multinational+ international logistics Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

LERIB SERVICES CORPORATION U-3d Rose Industries Bldg., Choice Market Ortigas, Kapitolyo, City Of Pasig

Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999 Basic Qualification: Atleast 2 years experience of an analytical role in financial business management, quantitative analysis or economics, with technical skills in project management, must have a bachelor’s degree in economics, highly proficient in Chinese and English

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

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

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 NGUYEN THI HONG Vietnamese Speaking Associate

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

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

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Ability to work in a highpressure, deadline-driven environment. Exceptional communication and reporting skills. Solid working knowledge in all required software and programming languages.

Brief Job Description: In charge with LTE planning and optimization; ensure the localization of wireless optimization and planning; oversee 4G/5G coordination optimization / crowdsourcing optimization; install customer experience management system on network and make full use of application; manage the routine communication with up-level expert in china to ensure the security of network; monthly report to headquarter for the progress and risk of integration and optimization progress.

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Ability to work in a highpressure, deadline-driven environment. Exceptional communication and reporting skills. Solid working knowledge in all required software and programming languages.

Basic Qualification: Ability to work in a highpressure, deadline-driven environment. Exceptional communication and reporting skills. Solid working knowledge in all required software and programming languages.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

GRAND UNICOM CORP. Unit 1510 One Park Drive, 11th Drive Cor. 9th Ave., Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Ability to work in a highpressure, deadline-driven environment. Exceptional communication and reporting skills. Solid working knowledge in all required software and programming languages.

No.

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

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Ability to work in a highpressure, deadline-driven environment. Exceptional communication and reporting skills. Solid working knowledge in all required software and programming languages.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

FRONTIER POINT MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS INC. 29/f Techzone Bldg., Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., San Antonio, City Of Makati

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Ability to work in a highpressure, deadline-driven environment. Exceptional communication and reporting skills. Solid working knowledge in all required software and programming languages.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

FLASH EXPRESS SOFTWARE (PH) CO., LTD. INC. 9th Flr. Arthaland Century Pacific Tower, 5th Avenue 30th Street Cor. 4th Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Ability to work in a highpressure, deadline-driven environment. Exceptional communication and reporting skills. Solid working knowledge in all required software and programming languages.

Brief Job Description: Serve as the technical expert for detailed design and construction aspects of the project. Propose and oversee timelines for engineering proposals and submissions are met. Set up procedure and processes in monitoring and tracking of engineering related documentation throughout project lifestyle.

ZHOU, XIANG Technical Manager

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Ability to work in a highpressure, deadline-driven environment. Exceptional communication and reporting skills. Solid working knowledge in all required software and programming languages.

Brief Job Description: Serve as the technical expert for detailed design and construction aspects of the project. Propose and oversee timelines for engineering proposals and submissions are met. Set up procedure and processes in monitoring and tracking of engineering related documentation throughout project lifestyle.

YANG, YUNBO Technical Manager

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Ability to work in a highpressure, deadline-driven environment. Exceptional communication and reporting skills. Solid working knowledge in all required software and programming languages.

Brief Job Description: Serve as the technical expert for detailed design and construction aspects of the project. Propose and oversee timelines for engineering proposals and submissions are met. Set up procedure and processes in monitoring and tracking of engineering related documentation throughout project lifestyle.

QIN, YANSI Technical Manager

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Solid understanding of logistics and inventory management software.

Outstanding analytical, problem solving and organizational abilities.

Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

www.businessmirror.com.ph

JEON, JAEMIN IT Consultant 68.

Brief Job Description: IT consultant need strong interpersonal and communications skills to deal effectively with clients.

KIM, JUNYOUNG IT Consultant

69.

Brief Job Description: IT consultant need strong interpersonal and communications skills to deal effectively with clients.

MACRO SHUN STEEL CORPORATION 74, R Jacinto St., Canumay West, City Of Valenzuela

Basic Qualification: College graduate with experience in the related position, fluent in English and Korean Hangul.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate with experience in the related position, fluent in English and Korean Hangul.

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

BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION BAI, HU Open Settlement Protocol Design Employee

70.

Brief Job Description: Carry out the optical distribution onsite, review and develop, propose and prepare HUANG, ZHIQUN Open Settlement Protocol Design Employee

71.

Brief Job Description: Carry out the optical distribution onsite, review and develop, propose and prepare LI, RUI Open Settlement Protocol Design Employee

72.

Brief Job Description: Carry out the optical distribution onsite, review and develop, propose and prepare

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Fluent in speaking and writing in Chinese Mandarin language

No.

ZHI, CHENHAO Chinese Customer Service 90.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in speaking and writing in Chinese Mandarin language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in speaking and writing in Chinese Mandarin language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

GAVIDA ROGEL, ALEJANDRA SOFIA Process Expert 73.

Brief Job Description: Support customers from LAM in end to end export and import sides, land services, invoices amendments, payment applications, etc.

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

HAN, LIN Operation Manager - Mandarin Speaking 91.

74.

Brief Job Description: Provide outstanding and exceptional customer service YANG, LIYUAN Chinese Speaking Customer Service Staff

75.

Brief Job Description: Provide outstanding and exceptional customer service

Basic Qualification: Can speak Chinese/ Mandarin fluently

Brief Job Description: Operate and manage of development and sales coordinator officers help develop and execute marketing strategies and campaigns for their organization, marketing communication

GAO, SHENGNAN Chinese Speaking Business Analyst 92.

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

ZHAO, JIE Chinese Speaking Business Analyst 93.

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

94.

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

CAO, LU Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. 4th-11th Flr. Nexgen Tower, C4 Rd. Edsa Ext., Brgy. 076, Pasay City GUO, SHAOBO Chinese Customer Service 76.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries HUYNH DONG KIET Chinese Customer Service

77.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries.

LI, BIN Chinese Customer Service

78.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries LIANG, JING Chinese Customer Service

79.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries LIANG, JUN Chinese Customer Service

80.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries MAC VINH PHU Chinese Customer Service

81.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries.

MAI THI NGOC NI Chinese Customer Service

82.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries.

NG TECK POH Chinese Customer Service

83.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries.

NGUYEN THI HOA HONG Chinese Customer Service

84.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries.

NGUYEN THI NGAN Chinese Customer Service

85.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries.

PHAM VAN TUAN Chinese Customer Service

86.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries.

WANG, SHUMIN Chinese Customer Service

87.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries.

WEI, QINGHUA Chinese Customer Service

88.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries.

YANG, LIU Chinese Customer Service 89.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Basic Qualification: Able to speak, Read, and Write Chinese language

95.

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

96.

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

97.

FU, XIUMIN Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

GAO, WEIJIN Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

GONG, YANHAO Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, Read, and Write Chinese language

98.

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

99.

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.

100.

GU, JUN Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

HE, LIMIN Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer Support and Data Base Services

KANG, TENGFEI Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

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

No.

Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read and write Chinese language.

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

Basic Qualification: Mediator/translator from English to Mandarin (vice versa)

105.

106.

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

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

101.

Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read and write Chinese language.

LI, FANGLIN Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

107.

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

108.

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

NEW ORIENTAL CLUB88 CORPORATION Sky Garage Bldg., Aseana Avenue, Entertainment City, Tambo, City Of Parañaque 1331 Pearl Plaza Bldg., Quirino Ave., Tambo, City Of Parañaque

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can speak Chinese/ Mandarin fluently

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

NEO INCORPORATED North Tower Centrum Bldg., Aseana Avenue, Entertainment City, Baclaran, City Of Parañaque

MARKETROLE ASIA PACIFIC SERVICES, INC. 26/f, 27/f, 28/f The Enterprise Center Tower 1, 6766 Ayala Ave. Cor. Paseo De Roxas, San Lorenzo, City Of Makati LIAO, JING-YU Chinese Speaking Customer Service Staff

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

MT TRAVEL AGENCY INC. 5/f Filipino Bldg., 135 Dela Rosa Cor. Legaspi Sts., San Lorenzo, City Of Makati

MAERSK GLOBAL SERVICE CENTRES (PHILIPPINES) LTD. Levels 5-8 North Wing, Estancia Offices, Capitol Commons Meralco Ave., Oranbo, City Of Pasig Basic Qualification: Keep close communication with colleagues locally and overseas in order to ensure prompt handling exceptions or concerns.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Thursday, October 7, 2021

Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills

109.

110.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills

111.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills

112.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills

113.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good oral and written communication skills

114.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledge in computer applications with good oral and written communication skills

115.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills

116.

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

Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good oral and written communication skills

117.

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

102.

LI, HUAIDONG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

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.

103.

LI, JINYANG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

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

104.

LIAO, TAOHONG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

LIN, ZILIANG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

LIU, YONGQIAN Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

LIU, ZEHONG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

PENG, CHONG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer Support and Data Base Services

WANG, HUAQIANG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

WANG, PEI Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer Support and Data Base Services

WANG, XUEHUA Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

WU, DONGYONG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

XIAO, KAI Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

XU, CHICHI Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

XU, JIANGYAN Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

YAN, ZHIBO Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

ZHANG, WEIDONG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

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

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

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good oral and written communication skills

118.

ZHANG, XINHAO Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

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

Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good oral and written communication skills

119.

ZHANG, YAN Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

120.

ZHANG, ZHIHAO Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledge in computer applications with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledge in computer applications with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

A13

BusinessMirror

A14 Thursday, October 7, 2021

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

121.

122.

123.

124.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

ZHAO, TINGYU Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

ELMI Indonesian Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

SAI MAUNG MAUNG MYINT Myanmari Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

NGUYEN THI QUYEN Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills

No.

135.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good oral and written communication skills

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

136.

125.

Brief Job Description: Handle service support calls, emails, and chats related to inquiry from clients and/or customers through Mandarin to English translation

Basic Qualification: Extensive fluency in Mandarin language and characters

PARK, JUNHEE Order Management Team Member-Korean Speaker 126.

Brief Job Description: Analyze the order in SAP based on the commercial catalog with data from technical catalog

137.

PHILKOROAD CORPORATION Suites 206 & 207 2/f Lri Design Plaza, 210 N. Garcia St., Bel-air, City Of Makati

KIM, JUNGEUN Korean Marketing Consultant 127.

Brief Job Description: Furnish the Korean clients with convenient marketing advice and suggestions,

Basic Qualification: Knowledge of data analysis and market research. In depth knowledge of marketing principles and best practices

ZHANG, XUEFENG Project Management And Technical Adviser 128.

Brief Job Description: Manage the actual execution of the project including preparation and implementation

138.

129.

BOONPITUK, PRANEE Customer Service Specialist (Thai Speaking) Brief Job Description: Customer service specialist (Thai speaking)

130.

WONGASA, THANYALUK Customer Service Specialist (Thai Speaking) Brief Job Description: Customer service specialist (Thai speaking)

139.

SHIHATA, MICHAEL DAVID Sr. Director, Relationship Management 131.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for account development, support delivery, and financial ownership to multiple sites and programs within the enterprise structure.

Understands all functional areas, including Operations, Workforce Management, Training, QA and IT.

Basic Qualification: Minimum 7 years progressive management and leadership of project and implementation teams experience including 2-3 years in a large call center environment.

140.

132.

133.

134.

Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

LIU, LONG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

WANG, TIAQIANG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

Brief Job Description: Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding complaints.

YANG, SHANGYU Mandarin Customer Support Representative

141.

Brief Job Description: Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding complaints.

ZHANG, MIN Mandarin Customer Support Representative

142.

Brief Job Description: Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding complaints.

HUANG, WEI Mandarin Admin Officer 143.

Brief Job Description: Performs administrative and office support for activities for multiple supervisors. Duties may include fielding telephone calls, receiving and directing visitors, wordprocessing, creating spreadsheets and presentations, and filing

144.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills

Brief Job Description: Responsible for conducting loss mitigation and recovery efforts with regard to a company’s delinquent or charged-off accounts includes making calls to determine and possibly cure customer delinquencies, assuring that all files have current financial statements at all times, and establishing payment arrangements to cure past due debts.

ZHANG, XIAOCHUN Mandarin Coordinator

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

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

147.

FRANKS, JONATHAN CARL Entrepreneur In Residence 148.

149.

150.

151.

Brief Job Description: Identify and assess customers needs to achieve satisfaction.

Brief Job Description: Identify and assess customers needs to achieve satisfaction.

Brief Job Description: Identify and assess customers needs to achieve satisfaction.

MICHAEL NICHOLAS Mandarin Customer Service Representative 152.

Brief Job Description: Identify and assess customers needs to achieve satisfaction.

RIANI TAN Mandarin Customer Service Representative 153.

Basic Qualification: Able to speak and write in Mandarin/Fukien and at least college level with related BPO experience.

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

SHERLY Bahasa/Indonesian Customer Service Representative

MARSONO Mandarin Customer Service Representative

Basic Qualification: Able to speak and write in Mandarin/Fukien and at least college level with related BPO experience.

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

Brief Job Description: Design and pilot operational process required to successfully serve customer with a good product.

HERYANTO Mandarin Customer Service Representative

Basic Qualification: Able to speak and write in Mandarin/Fukien and at least college level with related BPO experience.

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

Basic Qualification: College graduate. Fluent in Cantonese, Taiwanese, and Mandarin Language.

Excellent communication skills. Can juggle multiple tasks simultaneously.

Must have excellent sense of priority. Atleast 1 year experience as Admin Officer

145.

Brief Job Description: Typically works under a mandarin manager to maintain office equipment, physical space and telecommunications systems for a single building.

Mandarin coordinator handles building-equipment emergencies on an ongoing basis and serve, as a liaison between company employees and outside contractors called in to fix problems.

Basic Qualification: College graduate. Fluent in Cantonese, Taiwanese, and Mandarin Language.

Excellent communication skills. Can juggle multiple tasks simultaneously.

Must have excellent sense of priority. Atleast 1 year experience as Admin Officer Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: College graduate. Fluent in Cantonese, Taiwanese, and Mandarin Language.

Excellent communication skills. Can juggle multiple tasks simultaneously.

Must have excellent sense of priority. Atleast 1 year experience as Coordinator.

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

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate. Fluent in Cantonese, Taiwanese, and Mandarin Language.

Excellent communication skills. Can juggle multiple tasks simultaneously.

Must have excellent sense of priority. Atleast 1 year experience as Team Leader.

Basic Qualification: 5-10 years experience / a good peoplemanagement skills / with industry-related expertise / experience living abroad is advantageous.

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

ZONAC AND SHIBATA SERVICES INC. 4/f Pbcom Tower, 6795 Ayala Ave. Cor. Rufino St., Bel-air, City Of Makati

Basic Qualification: Able to speak and write in Mandarin/Fukien and at least college level with related BPO experience.

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

Basic Qualification: College graduate. Fluent in Cantonese, Taiwanese, and Mandarin Language.

Excellent communication skills. Can juggle multiple tasks simultaneously.

Must have excellent sense of priority. Atleast 1 year experience as Coordinator.

ZENROOMS SERVICES PHILIPPINES INC. Unit 206 2/f Villa Bldg., 78-80 Jupiter St. Cor. Makati Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati

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

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin Speaking, Preferably Graduate in China or at least graduate in prestigious school in the Philippines is an advantage, knowledgeable in Chinese corporation

Brief Job Description: Responsible for business consultancy practice.

Accountable for the successful delivery of complex project implementation, in which the team leader also act Project Manager. Manages and leads a team of employees.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

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

Brief Job Description: Identify and assess customers needs to achieve satisfaction.

SURATIM Mandarin Customer Service Representative 154.

155.

Brief Job Description: Identify and assess customers needs to achieve satisfaction.

Brief Job Description: Identify and assess customers needs to achieve satisfaction.

SUWARDI Mandarin Customer Service Representative 156.

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

LOO WEI LOON Mandarin Collection Officer

Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills

ZHANG, CHENGJIN Mandarin Team Leader

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

Basic Qualification: Must be a Certified Public Accountant with wide background in general accountancy and fluent in Mandarin language

Brief Job Description: A mandarin sales consultant works to create and implement marketing strategies. These strategies are centered on the core of the business and what services and products they offer. A consultant helps create a detailed marketing plan, determine the marketing message, and identify the appropriate marketing mix to get the message out.

SUSIWATI Mandarin Customer Service Representative

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

Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills

146.

WHOLESOME CONSULTING SERVICES CORP. Unit Ug-02, Ug/f Cityland 10 Tower 2, 154 H.v. Dela Costa Cor. Valero Sts., Bel-air, City Of Makati

SA RIVENDELL GLOBAL SUPPORT, INC. 2741, P. Zamora St., Brgy. 097, Pasay City

LIU, JIAQI Chinese Customer Service

Brief Job Description: Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding complaints.

TAN, ZHE Mandarin Customer Support Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 RESULTS MANILA, INC. Silver City, Frontera Verde, Ugong, City Of Pasig

Brief Job Description: Management Assistant work closely with senior personnel, learning techniques, etc. to run a company smoothly.

LIU, CHONGLIANG Mandarin Customer Support Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Responding to customer, determining the causes of the problems selecting and choosing the best solutions to solve the problem

Basic Qualification: Must be flexible, analytical and good communicators, In the next few sections, we look at the academic requirements, professional certifications, and soft skill requirements for BA roles. Fluency in English and Hebrew language is a must

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

RAINBOW PROMISE SOLUTIONS INC. Unit A 14/f B.a Lepanto Bldg., 8749 Paseo De Roxas, Bel-air, City Of Makati Basic Qualification: Responding to customer, determining the causes of the problems selecting and choosing the best solutions to solve the problem

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

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

DONG, MINGQI Mandarin Sales Consultant

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

Basic Qualification: 10 years of experience in the same field ; with hydrology expertise in flood control projects Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Managing the finance department operation of the company

WANG, LINJIA Management Assistant

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

QINGDAO MUNICIPAL CONSTRUCTION GROUP CO., LTD. Suite 1106 Ermita Center, 1350 Roxas Blvd., 072, Bgy. 668, Ermita, City Of Manila

No.

Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills

TOP ACCESS INFINITY INC. 27th Floor The Curve Building, 32nd Street Bgc, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

Basic Qualification: Fluent in speaking Korean language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Develop, implement and communicate metrics reporting processes and documentation across plants and companies in collaboration with operations, marketing and sales functions, fluency in English and Hebrew language is a must. Leading and executing various special projects with senior leadership primarily related to the evaluation of possible growth or driving operational improvement

WENG, WUBIN Deputy Chief Finance Officer

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

PHILIPS PHILIPPINES, INC. 10/f Sunlife Centre, 5th Ave. Cor. Rizal Drive, Bonifacio Global City, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

TCL SUN, INC. 4/f Zen Tower, 1111 N A Lopez St., 071, Brgy. 659, Ermita, City Of Manila

ORANGE SPACE INTERIOR DESIGN PRODUCTS CORP. Shop 8 G/f Aseana 3, Macapagal Boulevard Corner Aseana Ave., Baclaran, City Of Parañaque HSU, YI-TING Mandarin Speaking - Design & Interior Products Specialist

Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

PARK, BUMGIN Business Development Analyst

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills

YANG, HUAJUN Chinese Customer Service

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

TANZILA TRADING INC. U-29 3/f Bac., Bagong Milenyo F.b. Harrison St., Brgy. 076, Pasay City

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Brief Job Description: Identify and assess customers needs to achieve satisfaction.

YANTI Mandarin Customer Service Representative 157.

Brief Job Description: Identify and assess customers needs to achieve satisfaction.

Basic Qualification: Great communication skills and must be fluent in Chinese and English language.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Great communication skills and must be fluent in Chinese and English language.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Great communication skills and must be fluent in Chinese and English language.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Great communication skills and must be fluent in Chinese and English language.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Great communication skills and must be fluent in Chinese and English language.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Great communication skills and must be fluent in Chinese and English language.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Great communication skills and must be fluent in Chinese and English language.

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

Basic Qualification: Great communication skills and must be fluent in Chinese and English language.

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

Basic Qualification: Great communication skills and must be fluent in Chinese and English language.

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

*Date Generated: Oct 6, 2021 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.

ATTY. SARAH BUENA S. MIRASOL REGIONAL DIRECTOR

Companies BusinessMirror

Editor: Jennifer A. Ng

Thursday, October 7, 2021

B1

US-based investment firm hikes stake in First Gen

By Lenie Lectura

K

@llectura

ohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. (KKR) is investing P8.68 billion in First Gen Corp. which will allow the United States-based global investment firm to secure a 19.9-percent ownership stake in the Lopezowned power firm.

KKR announced Wednesday that its subsidiary, Philippines Clean Energy Holding Inc., will buy all 262,937,672 common shares that were tendered by First Gen at P33 apiece.

KKR is an existing shareholder of First Gen after acquiring an 11.9-percent stake in the company in January 2020. Once the transaction is com-

pleted this week, KKR will increase its ownership to approximately 19.9 percent.

The additional shares will be acquired through a block sale on October 8. “The transaction represents a total investment value of P8.68 billion. With the completion of the share acquisition, KKR, which is an existing shareholder

in First Gen, will hold an approximately 19.9-percent ownership stake in [First Gen].”

First Gen, a subsidiary of First Philippine Holdings Corp., primarily generates power through renewable energy and indigenous fuel sources such as natural gas, geothermal energy from steam, hydro-electric, wind, and solar power.

It has 3,495MW of installed capacity in its portfolio, which accounts for 19 percent of the Philippines’s gross power generation.

“After having been invested in First Gen for this past year, our admiration for First Gen’s business and strategy—including its work to support the energy transition in the Philippines—as well as its board and management team has only increased.

Today, we are pleased to have this opportunity to extend our shareholding in First Gen and support its work to provide critical energy solu-

tions to millions of Filipinos across the country. This investment marks the latest milestone for KKR in the Philippines, and deepens our commitment to the market,” said Michael de Guzman, a Managing Director on KKR’s Infrastructure team.

In May, First Gen announced that it has set aside about $530 million in capital expenditures (capex) this year to fund geothermal, gas and hydro projects.

First Gen Chief Financial Officer Emmanuel Singson said $280 million will be utilized by Energy Development Corp. (EDC), $120 million for its liquefied natural gas terminal and $60 million for its 100-megawatt pumped-storage project.

EDC, he said, is targeting a higher capex this year and is planning to spend about $280 million to catch up on its drilling and investments, as the Covid-19 pandemic resulted in the postponement of key activities last year.

RCI units gearing for recovery

By VG Cabuag @villygc

R

ox as and Company Inc. (RCI) on Wednesday said its units are positioned for a strong recovery in the coming months on the back of strong global demand for coconut products, a highly anticipated travel resurgence, and its real estate ventures.

Roxas Sigma Agriventures Inc. is ramping up production following the successful approval and partial release of a P100-million loan from state-owned Development Bank of the Philippines last July.

AC Energy switches on Rizal plant

A

C Energy Corp. (ACEN), the power arm of conglomerate Ayala Corp., has switched on its 150megawatt (MW) diesel-fired power plant in Pililla, Rizal.

The P1.9 billion diesel-fired power plant is the third plant to be switched on by ACEN for the year, after the 120 MW GigaSol Alaminos in Laguna and the 63 MW GigaSol Palauig in Zambales.

The company is also gearing up for the start of operations of its 40 MWh battery storage plant in Alaminos Laguna, and another 4 MW in Bataan.

AC Energy said the Ingrid diesel plant will help remedy the spate of power supply disruptions and augment the energy supply amid the Malampaya shutdown by starting to supply essential peaking and reserve power.

To ensure high availability for the plant, United Kingdom-based Aggreko installed 162 units of diesel generators, providing enough spare capacity. Aggreko will also provide operations and maintenance services to the Ingrid plant.

“Thermal firming capacity is critical to our energy transition strategy towards a lower carbon portfolio. To complement our renewables and to provide flexibility and stability to the grid, these firming assets will remain in our portfolio while we develop to scale up our energy storage facilities,” said Jose Maria Zabaleta, ACEN’s Chief Development Officer. Lenie Lectura

August tonnage from the same period last year rose 13 percent, netting a 40 percent improvement in average throughput year-on-year.

“The company forecasts up to a 50 percent increase in full year revenues versus 2020,” it said.

Meanwhile, its four Go Hotels, operated by Roxaco Asia Hospitality Corp. have achieved strong occupancy since the first quarter of 2020, due to high demand for affordable, clean, safe, and health-compliant quarantine locations.

The company said it is welcoming corporate clients as the budget hotel brand slowly pivots to

regular guests. Anya Resort Tagaytay, meanwhile, is preparing to reopen for clients from Metro Manila, which accounts for about 90 percent of its visitors. It offers room, dining, wellness and events services with its 78 rooms, two restaurants, a heated pool and a new spa in a secure location. It also caters to conferences, meetings and family functions.

“Various projects in Roxaco Land Corp. [RLC] are in progress. The southward expansion of housing and commercial developments as well as tollway and utility investments by private firms and govern-

ment open compelling options for RLC’s strategically located landbanks,” it said.

The group has achieved a vaccination rate of 89 percent across its businesses, and the number will increase further through the end of the year.

For the first half, the company said it was able to narrow its losses to P98.18 million from last year’s P367.8 million loss.

Revenues grew by more than three times to P632.03 million from the previous year’s P181.74 million, as its real estate, hospitality and coconut processing units recovered.

‘GOMO must comply with MNP law’

By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan

S

mart Communications Inc. (Smart) has asked the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) to question the delays in the implementation of the mobile number portability (MNP) by Globe Telecom Inc.’s GOMO. Kenneth E. Regañon, Smart’s regulatory affairs manager, sent a letter to NTC Commissioner Gamaliel A. Cordoba asking the regulator to “look into why Globe’s GOMO had failed to take part in the MNP launch on September 30.”

“Even the President of the Philippines cannot stop the law from being implemented. How then can a unilateral act of one covered by the law, delay implementation?” his letter read.

GOMO is a mobile service provider operated by Globe. It earlier sent an advisory to its subscribers that it can only participate in the MNP “by October 2021 due to unavoidable technical issues.”

Citing Republic Act 11202, Reganon said GOMO, just like other mobile service providers, is “obligated to provide nationwide mobile number portability to all qualified subscribers.”

MNP was launched on September 30. In a nutshell, MNP provides subscribers the ability to switch from one network to another without changing their mobile numbers.

“The MNP Act applies to all MSPs w ithout exception and GOMO subscribers can demand from Globe a seamless network

switch starting September 30, and yet Globe has just issued an advisory denying GOMO subscribers precisely this right. We do not believe that Globe is above the law, that is why we are asking the Commission’s clarification on this issue” said Regañon.

Globe has yet to reply to queries as of press time.

In a related development, think tank Infrawatch alleged that there are “delays in the implementation” of the MNP, saying that it has received reports that telcos are using “bugs and glitches as an excuse for delays.”

“We have been receiving concerning reports relating to process roadblocks being imposed by specific telcos to throttle the full implementation of the MNP. This is unacceptable because the government and the public have been expecting a seamless implementation of the MNP when it was officially launched at the end of September. The system glitches and bugs should have been identified and resolved prior to commercial launch,” Infrawatch Convenor Terry Ridon said.

He noted that the telcos have had ample time to properly execute the MNP. “More importantly, this is a disservice to telco subscribers who expose themselves to coronavirus risks when they go to telco offices to port out of their existing mobile networks. It is frustrating for them to find out that their MNP request cannot proceed due to system glitches and bugs. In fact, we have received a considerable number of reports from Globe

subscribers who experienced these problems,” he said.

The MNP was established to provide greater convenience to subscribers will providing them with more freedom to choose their preferred network without the hassle of changing mobile numbers.

The three telcos all pitched in roughly P120 million to build the necessary infrastructure to make this possible.

Ridon alleged that telcos are purportedly “imposing internal process roadblocks to deter their existing subscribers from migrating to other telcos.”

“Process roadblocks being imposed by telcos subvert the efficiency timelines under the MNP law and its implementing rules.

Telcos are doing this by limiting booking appointments relating to MNP, defining bundled services broadly to cover a wider swath of excepted mobile numbers, and limiting functionality required for third-party services such as virtual wallets and online banking.”

In particular, Globe subscribers are “unable to use the full functionality of their virtual wallets such as topping-up their mobile load and receiving One-Time PIN notifications.”

He also called on the NTC to fix this issue. “The NTC should nip these delays in the bud, which is why it should decisively act even no more than one week into the MNP’s full implementation. Because at the end of the day, the buck stops with the NTC if the MNP’s birth pangs remain unresolved for a longer period of time.”

Lufthansa Technik to rehire ex-workers

Photo from https://www.lht-philippines.com/

By Tyrone Jasper C. Piad @TyronePiad

L

ufthansa Technik Philippines (LTP) is eyeing to rehire previously laid off employees after it has resumed the construction of its $40-million hangar.

LTP President Elmar Lutter said in a press briefing on Wednesday that the maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services provider started picking up where it left off in August and began construction again a month after.

The 9,000-square-meter facility was originally scheduled for completion in September last year but the demand slump for MRO services amid the travel restrictions delayed the project.

The Hangar 1A is now slated to be completed in February next year, he said. Lutter noted that the accompanying auxiliary buildings “will take a little longer” but are still expected to be done in the first half of 2022.

“We are pushing for the completion because we think the demand will come back sustainably,” he said. For now, however, Lutter said demand has yet to return to prepandemic levels.

Despite the delay and losses caused by the pandemic, Lutter said the project—funded by loans and LTP’s own money—remains intact.

“We have to manage our cash. We have to be careful with the investment, but the plan is that not only we’ll complete the core investment of the Hangar, but also all the auxiliary investments,” he said.

Once completed, the facility will add 25 percent to its capacity, requiring an additional 275 jobs. It will be the MRO firm’s fourth hangar pro-

viding base and line maintenance to commercial aircrafts, including Airbus A320, A330, A350, A380 and B777.

As such, Lutter said they will begin building up their staff again.

He shared that 700 employees were let go last year—through retrenchment and retirement. The company is targeting to expand its workforce to 3,400 in 2022.

“The rehiring will start soon. We had to reduce to 80 percent. I think we will cross 80 percent the first quarter [next year], and especially with the additional production capacity in Hangar 1A,” he said.

Meanwhile, Lutter said LTP looks forward to servicing up to six smaller planes—from two—next year given the demand.

“Some routes see fewer passengers and can be served with smaller planes. For us, it means that we will also shift our intention to smaller planes and will increase our production capacity for the smaller planes and wait a little bit longer to expand our wide body offers,” he said.

For his part, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez said the resumption of the facility’s construction signals that the “country’s aviation industry and its support sector is beginning to bounce back from the effects of the global health crisis.”

The DTI official said the government wants to further help the sector by driving demand through the easing of restrictions amid the vaccination rollout.

“If we are in the process of easing, we can welcome as many as possible and lift the demand for aviation and transportation,” Lopez said.

6 PHL destinations simplify travel–CEB

C

ebu Pacific (CEB) has announced that there are now 6 destinations in its network that have simplified their travel requirements, namely, Cebu, Pagadian, Negros Occidental, Guimaras, Tacloban and Butuan which no longer require RT-PCR or antigen test.

Travelers bound for Cebu Province must present a medical certificate stating that they do not exhibit symptoms of Covid-19 issued within 24 hours of before arrival in Cebu.

Pagadian City-bound travelers are required to present a valid government-issued ID, which states that address is in Pagadian City, while transiting passengers do not need to present any requirement.

The four other destinations— Negros Occidental (except Bacolod City), Guimaras, Tacloban and Butuan—accept vaccination cards of fully-vaccinated persons as travel requirement for entry. A passenger is considered fully-vaccinated at least 14 days after having received the second dose in a two-dose series, or at least 14 days after having received a single-dose vaccine.

Here below are the other requirements for the four provinces aside from the vaccination card:

n Negros Occidental—Travel coordination permit (TCP) from SPass and complete registration to StaySafe.ph n Guimaras—TCP from S-Pass n Tacloban—Passenger must register under the Balik Tacloban Project through www.baliktacloban. tacloban.gov.ph. A passenger bound for Tacloban may also present certification of Quarantine Completion with vaccination status in securing the Acceptance Letter when travelling to Tacloban City n Butuan—TCP from S-Pass, and upload a valid, government-issued ID on the system. For a passenger bound for cities or municipalities outside Butuan City, he/she must show approved Travel Pass-Through Permit from S-Pass “We are encouraged by the efforts of these LGUs [local government units] to open up their borders and simplify travel requirements.

We share the goals of the national government that we do not contribute to the spread of the virus, by implementing safe and risk-based approach to travel,” said Candice Iyog, Vice President for Marketing and Customer Experience at Cebu Pacific.

B2

Companies BusinessMirror

Thursday, October 7, 2021

PSE STOCK QUOTATIONS

October 6, 2021

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

ASIA UNITED BDO UNIBANK 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

43.85 114.4 81.45 23.8 9.02 45 9.34 20.3 56.15 18.24 108.4 85.5 0.9 4.31 3.3 1.1 0.32 920 0.65 220 2,450

44 114.5 81.5 23.95 9.03 45.1 9.5 20.5 56.4 18.9 108.5 85.6 0.97 4.33 3.43 1.14 0.33 950 0.67 227 2,500

44.3 112.7 81 23.9 9.02 44.6 9.48 21 56 18.24 107.7 85 0.89 4.3 3.2 1.1 0.325 920 0.69 228 2,450

45 115.6 81.75 23.95 9.03 45.8 9.48 21 56.15 18.24 109.8 85.85 0.97 4.34 3.45 1.11 0.33 920 0.69 228 2,450

43.55 112.6 81 23.8 8.96 44.6 9.34 20.2 56 18 107.1 84 0.89 4.28 3.2 1.1 0.325 920 0.64 220 2,450

44 114.5 81.5 23.8 9.03 45 9.34 20.3 56.15 18.24 108.4 85.6 0.97 4.34 3.43 1.11 0.33 920 0.64 227 2,450

16,400 3,173,320 1,753,160 67,200 211,700 3,287,800 700 522,500 4,990 56,300 495,480 86,580 9,000 88,000 35,000 36,000 50,000 10 65,000 7,210 95

722,935 364,006,860 142,972,099 1,604,030 1,903,424 148,693,430 6,566 10,719,540 279,877 1,025,942 53,914,570 7,374,828 8,210 378,520 118,990 39,860 16,450 9,200 42,750 1,587,790 232,750

22,000 9,070,625 -41,577,401.50 -68,835 -27,030 -36,721,300 1,401,910 65,520 -18,240 2,589,421 -2,644,130.50 232,750

INDUSTRIAL AC ENERGY 12.4 12.42 11.98 12.4 11.96 12.4 36,241,300 444,188,678 ALSONS CONS 1.12 1.13 1.14 1.16 1.13 1.13 734,000 839,990 ABOITIZ POWER 30.6 30.65 29.75 30.75 29.5 30.65 5,912,600 179,819,075 BASIC ENERGY 0.52 0.53 0.52 0.53 0.51 0.53 8,064,000 4,166,300 FIRST GEN 29.95 30 32.5 33 30 30 5,308,300 162,727,130 FIRST PHIL HLDG 75.5 76 75 76 75 75.5 79,430 5,981,644.50 MERALCO 294 295 295 296.2 293.2 294 97,610 28,712,356 MANILA WATER 22.45 22.6 20.5 22.7 20.2 22.6 5,348,800 117,207,635 PETRON 3.36 3.38 3.42 3.55 3.34 3.38 9,236,000 31,753,900 PETROENERGY 4 4.08 4.05 4.08 4.05 4.08 89,000 361,890 PHX PETROLEUM 11.7 11.92 11.9 11.96 11.64 11.96 16,300 193,940 PILIPINAS SHELL 20.75 20.9 20.2 21.15 20.2 20.9 885,500 18,455,935 14.48 14.5 14.5 14.5 14.42 14.5 459,300 6,658,448 SPC POWER 15.02 18.48 15.02 15.02 15 15 3,200 48,020 VIVANT AGRINURTURE 4.86 4.88 5 5 4.86 4.88 112,100 547,211 2.81 2.83 2.83 2.83 2.8 2.83 201,000 566,400 AXELUM CNTRL AZUCARERA 13.98 14.3 14.3 14.4 14.3 14.4 5,000 71,610 CENTURY FOOD 27.9 28 28.1 28.6 27.75 28 775,400 21,741,180 15.96 15.98 15.16 15.96 15.16 15.96 670,200 10,463,500 DEL MONTE 7.75 7.76 7.5 7.79 7.48 7.76 1,121,000 8,643,039 DNL INDUS 18.38 18.4 18.2 18.58 18 18.4 2,569,200 47,206,992 EMPERADOR 76 76.05 75.95 76.1 75.7 76 90,390 6,868,380 SMC FOODANDBEV 0.62 0.65 0.62 0.62 0.62 0.62 20,000 12,400 ALLIANCE SELECT FRUITAS HLDG 1.35 1.38 1.38 1.43 1.32 1.38 22,082,000 30,400,500 GINEBRA 115.4 115.5 115.9 115.9 114 115.4 15,880 1,826,406 JOLLIBEE 203.2 204 203 206.8 200.4 203.2 730,660 149,365,844 LIBERTY FLOUR 27.9 29.7 27.8 29.8 27.8 29.7 600 17,470 MACAY HLDG 7 7.69 6.28 7 6.28 7 26,000 164,864 MAXS GROUP 6.52 6.54 6.41 6.52 6.22 6.52 223,700 1,443,705 MG HLDG 0.182 0.188 0.19 0.19 0.181 0.182 430,000 78,030 MONDE NISSIN 19 19.02 18.8 19.14 18.76 19 11,441,700 217,303,548 SHAKEYS PIZZA 7.9 8 8.21 8.21 8 8 95,800 779,597 ROXAS AND CO 0.82 0.83 0.75 0.85 0.75 0.83 7,515,000 6,018,270 RFM CORP 4.55 4.68 4.6 4.6 4.55 4.55 26,000 118,670 1.25 1.35 1.25 1.25 1.25 1.25 23,000 28,750 ROXAS HLDG SWIFT FOODS 0.113 0.115 0.113 0.118 0.113 0.113 3,000,000 343,350 UNIV ROBINA 135.5 136.3 136.8 137.3 134.9 135.5 1,402,420 190,440,472 0.76 0.77 0.76 0.77 0.76 0.77 573,000 439,230 VITARICH 2.42 2.46 2.42 2.46 2.42 2.46 17,000 41,180 VICTORIAS CONCRETE B 51.4 58.9 51.4 51.4 51.4 51.4 10 514 CEMEX HLDG 1.34 1.35 1.32 1.36 1.32 1.34 6,756,000 9,039,410 14.74 14.94 15 15 14.64 14.74 110,000 1,633,832 EAGLE CEMENT EEI CORP 6.48 6.5 6.87 6.87 6.4 6.5 3,728,300 24,361,269 6.3 6.38 6.5 6.5 6.3 6.38 263,400 1,674,742 HOLCIM 6.2 6.3 6.15 6.3 6.15 6.2 1,598,100 9,942,465 MEGAWIDE PHINMA 14.4 14.5 14.34 14.7 14.34 14.7 3,200 46,254 TKC METALS 0.9 0.91 0.89 0.9 0.89 0.9 155,000 139,120 VULCAN INDL 1.19 1.2 1.23 1.23 1.18 1.2 1,015,000 1,211,570 CROWN ASIA 1.67 1.69 1.67 1.67 1.67 1.67 30,000 50,100 EUROMED 1.62 1.69 1.62 1.67 1.62 1.67 40,000 65,800 MABUHAY VINYL 5.2 5.42 5.42 5.42 5.42 5.42 1,900 10,298 PRYCE CORP 5.41 5.47 5.47 5.47 5.4 5.4 28,100 153,007 CONCEPCION 21.4 23 22.2 23 21.35 21.4 50,200 1,152,140 GREENERGY 2.11 2.12 2.22 2.24 2.12 2.12 4,987,000 10,757,510 INTEGRATED MICR 8.06 8.1 7.6 8.35 7.6 8.06 3,367,400 27,208,880 IONICS 0.84 0.85 0.84 0.86 0.83 0.84 465,000 390,710 5.93 5.97 5.8 5.97 5.8 5.97 2,500 14,908 PANASONIC SFA SEMICON 1.15 1.17 1.13 1.16 1.13 1.16 460,000 527,070 4.43 4.44 4.32 4.49 4.32 4.44 7,089,000 31,408,240 CIRTEK HLDG

63,730,206 18,034,035 -11,440 8,721,300 21,028 -10,694,428 11,750,345 -1,330,000 3,914,265 85,470 -82,330 -5,241,515 -1,090,294 -2,094,068 4,838,184 -1,473,500 -555,947 -8,182,124 143,055 -30,295,378 -81,600 1,916,080 -132,912,227 -114,000 17,950 -21,512,869 -828,738 -123,524 60,690 -1,108,600 -4,909,290 -16,032,696 36,960 113,400.00 413,370

HOLDING & FRIMS ABACORE CAPITAL 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.02 1.06 35,125,000 36,772,600 ASIABEST GROUP 5.41 5.7 5.4 5.41 5.4 5.41 3,500 18,905 AYALA CORP 819 820 821 828 817 820 529,620 434,853,355 ABOITIZ EQUITY 49 49.55 50.1 50.35 49 49 780,190 38,500,558.50 ALLIANCE GLOBAL 10.2 10.3 10.42 10.42 10.2 10.2 2,860,400 29,410,008 AYALA LAND LOG 5.92 5.93 5.71 6 5.71 5.93 8,904,600 52,824,917 ANSCOR 6.96 7.1 7.05 7.1 6.95 7.1 14,100 99,530 ANGLO PHIL HLDG 0.92 0.93 0.92 0.93 0.92 0.93 562,000 517,310 ATN HLDG A 0.54 0.55 0.53 0.55 0.51 0.54 425,000 222,650 COSCO CAPITAL 4.94 4.95 5 5.01 4.94 4.95 1,916,000 9,513,510 DMCI HLDG 7.96 7.97 7.86 8.07 7.86 7.97 22,030,400 176,222,099 FILINVEST DEV 7.61 7.75 7.75 7.75 7.61 7.61 17,100 131,125 538 540 529 541 528 540 129,700 69,640,720 GT CAPITAL 63.3 64.7 63 64.7 63 64.7 1,257,390 80,467,579.50 JG SUMMIT 5.31 5.45 5.31 5.31 5.31 5.31 5,000 26,550 JOLLIVILLE HLDG LODESTAR 0.64 0.65 0.67 0.67 0.63 0.64 1,146,000 730,130 LOPEZ HLDG 3.2 3.25 3.25 3.25 3.16 3.2 84,000 270,290 LT GROUP 9.72 9.75 10.12 10.2 9.62 9.75 23,603,300 233,585,223 3.7 3.71 3.7 3.73 3.67 3.7 32,505,000 120,282,810 METRO PAC INV 3.2 3.29 3.23 3.29 3.23 3.29 25,000 80,930 PACIFICA HLDG 1.57 1.6 1.65 1.66 1.57 1.58 415,000 664,980 PRIME MEDIA SOLID GROUP 1.16 1.2 1.16 1.16 1.16 1.16 220,000 255,200 SM INVESTMENTS 993 1,000 997 1,002 982 1,000 82,185 82,062,772.50 SAN MIGUEL CORP 113.5 114.5 112.9 114.5 112.5 114.5 97,390 11,059,390 TOP FRONTIER 130 133.9 130 130 130 130 810 105,300 WELLEX INDUS 0.255 0.275 0.255 0.255 0.255 0.255 1,910,000 487,050 ZEUS HLDG 0.184 0.198 0.184 0.184 0.184 0.184 260,000 47,840

7,801,970 -204,813,255 5,578,871.50 -9,031,508 -1,649,541 -48,990 -3,002,901 12,890,332 -19,786 -7,099,705 22,276,344.50 -85,175,775 -87,073,820 -6,460 12,413,540 301,945 -13,000 -

PROPERTY

ARTHALAND CORP 0.63 0.64 0.64 0.64 0.63 0.63 765,000 481,960 AYALA LAND 33.35 33.4 32.75 33.6 32.75 33.4 6,670,600 222,426,505 ARANETA PROP 1.05 1.1 1.04 1.05 1.02 1.05 33,000 34,050 AREIT RT 39.95 40 40 40.2 39.7 40 723,400 28,894,040 BELLE CORP 1.35 1.36 1.36 1.36 1.35 1.36 168,000 228,030 A BROWN 0.87 0.89 0.9 0.9 0.87 0.89 515,000 452,100 CITYLAND DEVT 0.76 0.77 0.78 0.78 0.76 0.77 190,000 146,050 CROWN EQUITIES 0.118 0.121 0.121 0.123 0.121 0.121 670,000 81,420 CEB LANDMASTERS 2.95 2.97 2.93 3 2.93 2.97 662,000 1,952,690 CENTURY PROP 0.43 0.44 0.44 0.445 0.425 0.44 7,750,000 3,372,100 DOUBLEDRAGON 10.3 10.32 10.3 10.4 10.3 10.3 195,300 2,015,692 DDMP RT 1.88 1.89 1.88 1.9 1.86 1.88 10,505,000 19,785,070 6.85 7 6.9 6.9 6.85 6.85 20,100 138,485 DM WENCESLAO EMPIRE EAST 0.27 0.28 0.27 0.27 0.27 0.27 210,000 56,700 0.375 0.38 0.37 0.385 0.355 0.38 19,690,000 7,303,150 EVER GOTESCO 7.42 7.44 7.44 7.46 7.42 7.42 3,242,100 24,131,473 FILINVEST RT 1.1 1.11 1.1 1.11 1.09 1.1 7,162,000 7,875,970 FILINVEST LAND 0.93 0.95 0.95 0.96 0.91 0.95 1,508,000 1,404,870 GLOBAL ESTATE 8990 HLDG 10.5 10.6 10.28 10.98 9.96 10.5 747,700 7,682,172 PHIL INFRADEV 1.17 1.19 1.19 1.21 1.14 1.19 248,000 287,200 3.15 3.76 3.15 3.15 3.15 3.15 5,000 15,750 KEPPEL PROP CITY AND LAND 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.04 1.01 1.03 450,000 461,320 2.9 2.93 2.92 2.99 2.9 2.9 34,486,000 101,478,310 MEGAWORLD MRC ALLIED 0.285 0.29 0.285 0.29 0.28 0.285 9,470,000 2,681,100 MREIT RT 17.48 17.56 17.78 17.78 17.4 17.48 5,415,600 95,609,730 PHIL ESTATES 0.475 0.48 0.475 0.485 0.475 0.475 1,610,000 766,200 PRIMEX CORP 1.71 1.78 1.7 1.81 1.7 1.78 125,000 222,270 RL COMM RT 7.04 7.05 7.05 7.07 7.01 7.05 7,874,200 55,467,283 ROBINSONS LAND 16.16 16.18 16.2 16.3 16.14 16.18 2,889,700 46,864,884 PHIL REALTY 0.241 0.245 0.243 0.245 0.24 0.241 1,550,000 374,340 ROCKWELL 1.6 1.61 1.55 1.6 1.55 1.6 2,316,000 3,688,070 SHANG PROP 2.6 2.67 2.67 2.67 2.61 2.66 26,000 68,120 STA LUCIA LAND 2.85 2.9 2.81 2.9 2.81 2.9 118,000 340,400 SM PRIME HLDG 33.8 33.85 32.8 33.95 32.8 33.8 6,862,300 231,771,675 3.64 3.7 3.7 3.7 3.7 3.7 5,000 18,500 VISTAMALLS SUNTRUST HOME 1.5 1.53 1.5 1.53 1.49 1.53 816,000 1,224,060 3.57 3.6 3.51 3.63 3.5 3.57 1,303,000 4,644,840 VISTA LAND

SERVICES ABS CBN 15.8 15.84 15.18 15.96 15.14 15.84 1,356,200 21,370,596 GMA NETWORK 15.78 15.8 15.66 15.98 15.36 15.78 6,922,300 108,440,940 MANILA BULLETIN 0.405 0.44 0.405 0.44 0.405 0.44 220,000 91,900 GLOBE TELECOM 3,404 3,410 3,116 3,418 3,116 3,410 300,375 998,541,970 PLDT 1,710 1,730 1,700 1,753 1,692 1,710 379,200 657,993,205 APOLLO GLOBAL 0.104 0.105 0.109 0.109 0.104 0.104 355,240,000 37,353,440 CONVERGE 43.95 44 41.8 45.4 41.4 44 15,315,100 677,459,385 DFNN INC 3.38 3.48 3.51 3.51 3.38 3.49 359,000 1,232,520 DITO CME HLDG 7.74 7.75 7.13 7.75 7.11 7.74 13,355,800 99,127,519 JACKSTONES 2 2.1 2 2 2 2 9,000 18,000 NOW CORP 1.83 1.84 1.8 1.83 1.8 1.83 1,185,000 2,155,930 TRANSPACIFIC BR 0.345 0.35 0.35 0.35 0.33 0.35 4,180,000 1,414,950 2.3 2.33 2.26 2.36 2.26 2.3 937,000 2,167,740 PHILWEB 8.06 8.1 8.15 8.19 8.05 8.06 19,500 157,528 2GO GROUP 13.54 14.2 14 14.2 14 14.2 19,000 267,800 ASIAN TERMINALS CHELSEA 2.19 2.2 2.2 2.2 2.13 2.19 648,000 1,410,800 CEBU AIR 41.4 41.45 40.2 42.1 40.2 41.45 1,034,200 42,875,430 192.2 193.8 195 197.5 192.2 192.2 1,064,710 206,273,505 INTL CONTAINER 16.9 17.46 17 17 16.9 16.9 9,000 152,510 LBC EXPRESS 0.91 0.95 0.91 0.91 0.91 0.91 9,000 8,190 LORENZO SHIPPNG MACROASIA 4.91 4.92 4.6 4.98 4.6 4.92 3,727,000 18,130,610 1.45 1.5 1.43 1.46 1.43 1.45 44,000 63,620 METROALLIANCE A HARBOR STAR 1.05 1.06 1.06 1.06 1.04 1.05 162,000 169,360 BOULEVARD HLDG 0.077 0.078 0.077 0.079 0.076 0.078 27,110,000 2,088,100 DISCOVERY WORLD 2.14 2.24 2.11 2.25 2.09 2.25 156,000 345,020 WATERFRONT 0.51 0.53 0.51 0.53 0.51 0.51 822,000 420,740 CENTRO ESCOLAR 6.63 7.05 6.97 7.06 6.63 6.63 4,600 31,818 FAR EASTERN U 555 600 555 555 555 555 260 144,300 STI HLDG 0.355 0.36 0.355 0.36 0.355 0.36 500,000 179,050 BERJAYA 6.04 6.05 5.89 6.09 5.88 6.05 158,100 942,828 BLOOMBERRY 6 6.02 5.9 6.04 5.83 6 2,844,900 16,963,844 PACIFIC ONLINE 1.92 2 1.94 2 1.9 2 107,000 205,210 LEISURE AND RES 1.67 1.68 1.68 1.7 1.65 1.68 306,000 513,780 MANILA JOCKEY 1.72 1.81 1.81 1.81 1.69 1.72 82,000 145,440 1.21 1.22 1.19 1.21 1.14 1.21 2,829,000 3,338,150 PH RESORTS GRP 0.41 0.415 0.42 0.42 0.41 0.415 2,950,000 1,220,900 PREMIUM LEISURE 10.08 10.12 9.65 10.2 9.6 10.1 2,129,700 21,207,246 ALLHOME 1.34 1.35 1.32 1.35 1.32 1.35 1,057,000 1,409,330 METRO RETAIL 42.4 42.45 43.15 43.8 41.8 42.45 1,859,800 79,021,640 PUREGOLD 61.1 61.25 58.2 61.1 56.5 61.1 4,108,100 244,059,484 ROBINSONS RTL 86 88 88.45 88.5 85 88 15,310 1,314,771 PHIL SEVEN CORP 1.17 1.18 1.15 1.18 1.14 1.18 4,843,000 5,648,090 SSI GROUP 31.35 31.5 29.1 32.65 29.1 31.35 14,972,900 471,754,260 WILCON DEPOT 0.249 0.25 0.249 0.25 0.249 0.25 1,360,000 339,970 APC GROUP 4.81 4.96 5 5 4.8 4.81 30,500 149,069 EASYCALL GOLDEN MV 521 535 520.5 535 520.5 535 2,390 1,274,750 IPM HLDG 7.05 7.1 7.08 7.08 7.08 7.08 9,900 70,092 PRMIERE HORIZON 0.84 0.85 0.89 0.89 0.83 0.85 39,088,000 33,223,220 SBS PHIL CORP 4.47 4.48 4.22 4.47 4.21 4.47 5,000 21,590

MINING & OIL

ATOK 7 7.2 7.09 7.45 7 7 404,800 2,913,481 APEX MINING 1.41 1.42 1.4 1.43 1.4 1.41 581,000 819,410 ATLAS MINING 5.86 5.89 5.86 5.94 5.82 5.86 519,200 3,032,071 BENGUET A 4.89 5.07 5.08 5.08 4.89 4.89 10,900 54,935 COAL ASIA HLDG 0.28 0.295 0.28 0.3 0.28 0.295 1,600,000 462,800 CENTURY PEAK 2.65 2.7 2.65 2.7 2.65 2.7 10,000 26,750 DIZON MINES 6 6.23 6.23 6.23 6 6 3,100 18,623 FERRONICKEL 2.05 2.06 2.08 2.1 2.04 2.05 5,310,000 10,945,180 LEPANTO A 0.13 0.133 0.129 0.13 0.129 0.13 24,430,000 3,152,250 LEPANTO B 0.132 0.133 0.132 0.133 0.132 0.132 18,280,000 2,412,990 MANILA MINING A 0.0095 0.0097 0.0096 0.0096 0.0095 0.0095 103,000,000 984,100 0.0097 0.0098 0.0097 0.0098 0.0097 0.0098 4,000,000 39,100 MANILA MINING B 0.9 0.91 0.89 0.92 0.89 0.9 536,000 483,220 MARCVENTURES 1.04 1.05 1.05 1.09 1.05 1.05 43,000 45,230 NIHAO NICKEL ASIA 5.35 5.36 5.42 5.45 5.27 5.35 5,971,900 31,960,422 0.35 0.36 0.33 0.36 0.32 0.36 590,000 194,600 OMICO CORP 0.84 0.85 0.84 0.85 0.84 0.85 425,000 359,280 ORNTL PENINSULA PX MINING 4.97 4.98 4.9 5 4.9 4.98 607,000 3,018,780 25 25.1 24.3 25.7 24.3 25 7,154,600 180,630,190 SEMIRARA MINING 0.0068 0.0069 0.0066 0.007 0.0066 0.0067 31,000,000 210,300 UNITED PARAGON 18.2 18.38 17.1 18.38 16.7 18.38 726,300 12,931,940 ACE ENEXOR 0.011 0.012 0.011 0.012 0.011 0.012 510,200,000 6,035,100 ORNTL PETROL A ORNTL PETROL B 0.011 0.012 0.012 0.012 0.011 0.012 922,100,000 10,765,200 PHILODRILL 0.0099 0.01 0.0098 0.01 0.0098 0.01 87,000,000 869,100 PXP ENERGY 6.51 6.55 6.25 6.75 6.2 6.5 579,500 3,757,293

PREFFERED AC PREF B1 525 529.5 525 529.5 525 529.5 280 147,360 ALCO PREF B 101.5 102.6 102.6 102.6 102.6 102.6 770 79,002 AC PREF B2R 524.5 529 522 525 522 525 52,380 27,463,300 CEB PREF 42 42.35 40.5 42.8 39.9 42.35 75,000 3,118,810 DD PREF 101 101.5 101 101 101 101 10,100 1,020,100 FGEN PREF G 105.3 105.6 105.6 105.6 105.6 105.6 32,000 3,379,200 GTCAP PREF B 1,030 1,035 1,030 1,030 1,030 1,030 5,400 5,562,000 MWIDE PREF 101 101.5 101.5 101.5 101.2 101.5 2,270 230,375 MWIDE PREF 2B 101.5 102 101 101.5 101 101.5 27,000 2,728,000 PNX PREF 3B 107.5 107.6 107.5 107.6 107.5 107.6 510 54,831 PNX PREF 4 1,011 1,012 1,010 1,012 1,010 1,012 1,400 1,416,790 PCOR PREF 3A 1,125 1,128 1,124 1,128 1,124 1,128 580 651,980 1,170 1,179 1,163 1,170 1,163 1,170 975 1,140,695 PCOR PREF 3B SMC PREF 2F 79.3 79.5 79.05 79.05 79.05 79.05 100 7,905 76.3 77.5 76.3 76.3 76.3 76.3 5,000 381,500 SMC PREF 2H SMC PREF 2J 76.5 76.9 76.4 76.9 76.4 76.5 670 51,246 SMC PREF 2K 76.05 76.5 76 76.1 76 76.05 253,600 19,286,160

PHIL. DEPOSITARY RECEIPTS ABS HLDG PDR 15 15.1 14.88 15.2 14.5 15 210,100 3,147,712 GMA HLDG PDR 14.82 14.92 14.8 14.92 14.62 14.82 123,900 1,837,454

WARRANTS TECH WARRANT 1.57 1.58 1.53 1.61 1.51 1.57 7,493,000 11,798,990

22,050 -6,652,305 3,982,005 189,950 77,440 8,470 -51,290 107,500 204,202 -150,480 8,100 -130,950 -4,800,654 -92,400 11,800 10,200 -19,681,720 -70,950 -34,343,948 23,750 2,780,511 8,501,414 111,500 -249,400 53,581,740.00 19,500 820,370 203,919,540 102,487,195 87,920 -31,801,770 30,810 7,812,446 329,560 20,450 -431,810 80,600 -32,640,525 -18,530,253 -34,000 96,980 1,050 -93,600 -2,821,094 184,440 118,750 2,562,515 276,570 -30,721,290 61,012,297 791,523 -88,500 -78,036,635 -10,000 -211,000 1,674,800 4,470 26,750 658,010 9,800 -13,400 2,959,689 96,000 -55,660 27,057,820 27,600 -91,200.00 -6,000 - 1,730 -48,375 -364,320 7,905 - 30,200 -126,896

SMALL & MEDIUM ENTERPRISES ALTUS PROP ITALPINAS KEPWEALTH MERRYMART

17.14 1.91 4 3.8

FIRST METRO ETF

106.5

17.46 1.93 4.01 3.81

EXHANGE TRADE FUNDS

106.6

17.02 1.95 3.86 3.8

17.78 1.95 4 3.88

17.02 1.92 3.86 3.75

17.14 1.93 4 3.81

19,000 576,000 33,000 3,950,000

325,366 1,116,220 130,460 15,106,700

26,650 -6,808 354,540

105.6 106.5 105.5 106.5 39,550 4,192,733 -588,076

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Megaworld to spend ₧98B to develop Bulacan assets

P

By VG Cabuag

@villygc

roperty developer Megaworld Corp. on Wednesday said it is spending some P98 billion to develop some 85 hectares of land in Bulacan, transforming huge tracts of land into a business district.

The company called the development Northwin Global City, a property some 20 kilometers north of Metro Manila, which sits along the North Luzon Expressway in the municipalities of Marilao and Bocaue in Bulacan. It will be completed in the next 15 to 20 years.

“This is like building a new city that will put the province of Bulacan in the global business map because we envision huge multinational companies to be operating here once our commercial district and our office towers will be completed.

Northwin Global City’s close prox-

imity to Metro Manila and its ideal location just along NLEX and the major transport infrastructure will be very favorable for the future locators and residents of this township,” Kevin Andrew L. Tan, Megaworld’s executive vice president, said.

The township will have its own commercial district, high-rise residential condominiums, hotels, malls, mixed-use commercial buildings, educational institutions and office towers.

Around 40 percent of the entire development will be dedicated to green and open spaces such as landscaped parks.

The company will also be integrating its features its previous developments, including the installation of solar-powered and LED streetlights, underground cabling system, fiber

optic cabling, bike lanes, storm water detention facility for flood prevention, intermodal transport terminal and other infrastructure for mobility and connectivity.

Northwin Global City will also host one of the stations of the Manila-Clark Railway Project. Once completed, future residents, locators and even visitors of the township will have the most convenient access to and from Metro Manila as well as to and from Clark International Airport.

“Once completed, Northwin Global City will have convenient access to three international airports in Bulacan, Clark, and even in Metro Manila. By then, we hope to be able to create more jobs for Filipinos especially in that part of Central Luzon,” Tan said.

Angel’s Pizza to expand store network mutual funds A

ngel’s Pizza, the pizza store chain of the Figaro Group, is set to further expand its locations nationwide, putting emphasis on delivery service, as the pandemic affected people’s mobility and restricted dining options in restaurants.

The company said it has 33 locations nationwide and 10 new stores will be opened through the end of the year to bring its total to 43.

In 2020, at the height of the pandemic, the company was able to expand to 10 new stores.

“Angel’s Pizza was able to swivel its operations during the pandemic since most customers shifted to deliveries, we took advantage of strengthening our internal delivery [efforts] and tie-ups with delivery services such as GrabFood,” said Audrey Santos, director of operations of Figaro.

“We were able to successfully launch eight new franchise stores last year—Naga, Pateros, North Caloocan, Novaliches, Albay, Mactan, Tagbak Iloilo and Banilad, Cebu.

We are currently in talks for several locations in Visayas and Mindanao,” Figaro Deputy COO Mike Barret said.

Aside from its own Angel Pizza stores, the Figaro Group has also

expanded distribution avenues through its cloudkitchen service The Figaro Group Express, which involves the group’s four food and beverage brands including Angel’s Pizza, Tien Ma’s Taiwanese, Figaro Coffee and TFG Online.

“Housing its four entities in a single cloudkitchen not only adds another location to the roster but also raises brand awareness and affinity among its different set of markets. The Figaro Group Express’ first outlet can be found at Shell Congressional Avenue, Quezon City,” the company said.

It said six upcoming outlets are in the pipeline adding to the store network over the course of the year.

“As protocols continue to shift nationwide and the mandate of social distancing are set in place, the company has quickly switched gears and concentrated on its online presence by partnering with delivery services that have gained momentous traction the past year,” the company said.

Angel’s Pizza was established in 2009 and is part of the Camerton Holdings that also owns majority of listed firm Cirtek Holdings Philippines Corp. VG Cabuag

MPTC aims to open CCLEX next year

By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan

M

etro Pacific Tollways Corp. (MPTC) said on Wednesday the CebuCordova Link Expressway’s (CCLEX) main bridge span has been connected, marking the conclusion of “a complex project” that covered three years of non-stop construction.

“Today, we have achieved a major construction feat, when the twometer gap that had separated main bridge deck of Tower 1 from the bridge deck of Tower 2 became one; thanks to a special joint concreting engineering procedure done over the waters of the Mactan Channel, and linking two economies with a lot of promise—Cebu City and the Municipality of Cordova,” said MPTC President Rodrigo E. Franco.

The main bridge deck hovers 51 meters above the Mactan Channel.

CCLEX is expected to be opened by early 2022.

“The significance of the moment

is expressed in a marvelous engineering way, stitching the remaining gap between the CCLEX’s Tower 1 deck with Tower 2 deck—pointing to the project’s much larger role in finally linking the quaint town of Cordova in Mactan Island to the highly urbanized Cebu City in the mainland,” Franco said.

The P30-billion CCLEX is the third bridge that links Mactan to mainland Cebu. The 8.9-kilometer bridge expressway has a design speed of up to 80 kilometers per hour and is seen to reduce traffic in the area.

“After today’s main bridge deck connection, we look forward to another milestone: Opening CCLEX to the public for commercial operations in the first quarter of 2022.

We can’t wait to see Cebuanos enjoy the ultimate expressway experience afforded by using this bridge,” Cebu Corodova Link Expressway Corp.

President Allan G. Alfon said.

CCLEX is MPTC’s first local expressway project outside Luzon.

October 6, 2021

NAV

One Year Three Year Five Year

per share

Return*

Y-T-D

Return

Stock Funds ALFM Growth Fund, Inc. -a

222.49

13.75%

-2.69%

-3.52%

-2.07%

ATRAM Alpha Opportunity Fund, Inc. -a

1.6313

52.66%

6.21%

3.28%

24.24%

16.77%

-6.39%

ATRAM Philippine Equity Opportunity Fund, Inc. -a 3.0768

-6.37%

-1.79%

Climbs Share Capital Equity Investment Fund Corp. -a 0.7424 10.54%

-5.03% n.a.

-8.66%

First Metro Consumer Fund on MSCI Phils. IMI, Inc. -a 0.7816 15.72%

-0.51% n.a.

First Metro Save and Learn Equity Fund,Inc. -a

5.0676

First Metro Save and Learn Philippine Index Fund, Inc. -a

5.39%

20.87%

0.45%

-1.19%

2.56%

0.7492

14.66%

-2.17%

-5.23%

16.05%

-5.18% n.a.

-3.41%

45.8983

17.24%

-0.76%

-2.1%

-2.01%

478.28

13.55%

-0.7%

-2.65%

-2.18%

Philequity Alpha One Fund, Inc. -a,d

1.1062

24.38% n.a. n.a.

0.81%

Philequity Dividend Yield Fund, Inc. -a

1.2617

26.13%

1.49%

-0.37%

8%

Philequity Fund, Inc. -a

35.0755

19.57%

-0.07%

-0.99%

0.88%

MBG Equity Investment Fund, Inc. -a

98.39

PAMI Equity Index Fund, Inc. -a Philam Strategic Growth Fund, Inc. -a

Philequity MSCI Philippine Index Fund, Inc. -a

0.8907

15.21% n.a. n.a.

-2.44%

Philequity PSE Index Fund Inc. -a

4.7148

17.93%

-0.04%

-1.43%

-1.59%

Philippine Stock Index Fund Corp. -a

788.9

18.03%

0.05%

-1.45%

-1.59%

Soldivo Strategic Growth Fund, Inc. -a

0.7131

17.36%

-4.31%

-4.65%

-0.81%

Sun Life Prosperity Philippine Equity Fund, Inc. -a 3.6495

18.63%

-2.1%

-2.55%

0.71%

Sun Life Prosperity Philippine Stock Index Fund, Inc. -a 0.9004 17.61%

-0.31%

-1.62%

-1.89%

United Fund, Inc. -a

-0.51%

-0.86%

-0.93%

0.18%

-0.97%

3.2878

17.38%

-3.5%

Exchange Traded Fund First Metro Phil. Equity Exchange Traded Fund, Inc. -a,c 105.9631

18.08%

-1.48%

Primarily invested in foreign currency securities ATRAM AsiaPlus Equity Fund, Inc. -b

$1.1264

7.33%

4.27%

4.29%

-6.36%

Sun Life Prosperity World Voyager Fund, Inc. -a $1.7551

16.41%

10.55%

10.84%

4.92%

Balanced Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities ATRAM Dynamic Allocation Fund, Inc. -a

1.6713

8.17%

1.25%

-1.42%

0.16%

ATRAM Philippine Balanced Fund, Inc. -a

2.2167

8.61%

1.01%

-1.24%

-3.01%

First Metro Save and Learn Balanced Fund Inc. -a 2.6571

11.24%

2.66%

0.36%

1.15%

First Metro Save and Learn F.O.C.C.U.S. Dynamic Fund, Inc. -a 0.1996 NCM Mutual Fund of the Phils., Inc. -a

1.9708

7.63%

15.98% n.a. n.a.

3.16%

0.74%

0.19%

PAMI Horizon Fund, Inc. -a

3.6804

6.58%

2.6%

-0.58%

-2.89%

Philam Fund, Inc. -a

16.4865

6.83%

2.51%

-0.58%

-2.68%

Solidaritas Fund, Inc. -a

2.0627

8.26%

0.89%

-0.51%

-1.36%

Sun Life of Canada Prosperity Balanced Fund, Inc. -a 3.5851 10.67%

0.31%

-1.06%

0.33%

Sun Life Prosperity Achiever Fund 2028, Inc. -a,d 0.9842

5.54% n.a. n.a.

-3.76%

Sun Life Prosperity Achiever Fund 2038, Inc. -a,d 0.9092

10.09% n.a. n.a.

-4.21%

Sun Life Prosperity Achiever Fund 2048, Inc. -a,d 0.8987

12.1% n.a. n.a.

-3.69%

Sun Life Prosperity Dynamic Fund, Inc. -a

15.2%

0.9149

0.39%

-1.22%

0.76%

3.06%

Primarily invested in foreign currency securities Cocolife Dollar Fund Builder, Inc. -a

$0.03785

-2.82%

2.87%

1.03%

-3.2%

PAMI Asia Balanced Fund, Inc. -b

$1.0581

2.41%

2.86%

2.29%

-6.36%

Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Advantage Fund, Inc. -a $4.6499 12.38%

8.15%

7.62%

3.04%

Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Wellspring Fund, Inc. -a $1.2015 5.45%

4.7%

3.97%

-0.06%

0.48%

Bond Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities ALFM Peso Bond Fund, Inc. -a

372.89

1.15%

2.97%

2.42%

ATRAM Corporate Bond Fund, Inc. -a

1.9283

-1.22%

1.27%

0.19%

1.47%

Cocolife Fixed Income Fund, Inc. -a

3.2419

1.23%

3.35%

4.16%

0.82%

Ekklesia Mutual Fund Inc. -a

2.2514

-1.99%

2.03%

1.32%

-2.04%

First Metro Save and Learn Fixed Income Fund,Inc. -a 2.4305 -0.93%

3.17%

1.7%

-0.93%

Philam Bond Fund, Inc. -a

4.4456

-4.38%

5.08%

1.27%

-3.98%

Philam Managed Income Fund, Inc. -a

1.3175

0.47%

4%

2.62%

-0.29%

Philequity Peso Bond Fund, Inc. -a

3.9723

0.38%

4.66%

2.43%

-0.72%

Soldivo Bond Fund, Inc. -a

1.0292

-1.1%

5.34%

1.6%

-1.37%

Sun Life of Canada Prosperity Bond Fund, Inc. -a 3.1957

0.18%

5.02%

2.69%

-0.32%

Sun Life Prosperity GS Fund, Inc. -a

-0.7%

4.3%

2.07%

-0.94%

1.7385

Primarily invested in foreign currency securities ALFM Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -a

$487.87

1.93%

3.07%

2.1%

0.8%

ALFM Euro Bond Fund, Inc. -a

Є220.15

1.39%

1.08%

0.77%

0.42%

ATRAM Total Return Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -b $1.1929

-6.79%

-3.51%

2.08%

1.13%

First Metro Save and Learn Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -a $0.026 -1.52%

1.59%

0.71%

-2.26%

PAMI Global Bond Fund, Inc -b

$1.0295

0.07%

-1.38%

-5.55%

Philam Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -a

$2.4769

-0.8%

4.9%

1.67%

-2.48%

Philequity Dollar Income Fund Inc. -a $0.0628042 2.24%

3.38%

2.04%

0.81%

Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Abundance Fund, Inc. -a $3.1287 -1.55%

2.79%

0.46%

-5.23%

-2.94%

Money Market Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities ALFM Money Market Fund, Inc. -a

2.54%

0.74%

First Metro Save and Learn Money Market Fund, Inc. -a 1.0555 0.96% n.a. n.a.

130.78

1.22%

0.71%

Sun Life Prosperity Peso Starter Fund, Inc. -a,1 1.3109

1.08%

1.53%

2.95% 2.74%

2.55%

Primarily invested in foreign currency securities Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Starter Fund, Inc. -a $1.0589

0.89%

1.55% n.a.

0.5%

Feeder Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities Sun Life Prosperity World Equity Index Feeder Fund, Inc. -a,d 1.2923

28.28% n.a. n.a.

14.4%

Primarily invested in foreign currency securities ALFM Global Multi-Asset Income Fund Inc. -a,d

$0.97

3.19% n.a. n.a.

-1.02%

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

1 - Renaming was approved by the SEC last July 8, 2021 (formerly, Sun Life Prosperity Money Market Fund, Inc.).

"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."

Agriculture/Commodities BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Editor: Jennifer A. Ng • Thursday, October 7, 2021 B3

PHL sugar output more than doubles in Sept

By Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas @jearcalas

T

HE local sugar sector got off to a good start as raw sugar output more than doubled nearly a month after the current crop year (CY) kicked off in September, latest government data showed.

Data from the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) showed that sugar production as of September 26 reached 59,805 metric tons (MT), which was 167.62 percent higher than last year’s 22,347 MT. With the triple-digit growth rate in initial output, total raw sugar supply as of September 26 rose by 12.85 percent to 312,212 MT from last year’s 276,668 MT, based on SRA data.

Raw sugar demand during the period, as measured by withdrawals, was estimated at 80,869 MT, slightly higher than last year’s 80,268 MT. Current raw sugar stocks were estimated at 210,271.23 MT, 70.02 percent higher than the 123,675.49 MT recorded a year ago.

Total refined sugar supply, however, declined 43.62 percent to 213,027.65 MT from last year’s 377,870.25 MT. SRA data showed

that about 1,717.10 MT of the total refined sugar supply were produced in the current crop year while the 16,401 MT were imported.

The average mill-site price of raw sugar rose by 11.28 percent to P1,648.91 per 50-kilogram bag (Lkg) from last year’s P1,481.83 per Lkg average quotation, based on SRA. Likewise, the prevailing wholesale price of raw sugar per LKg increased by 5.88 percent year-on-year to P1,800 while the prevailing wholesale price of refined sugar reached P2,350 per LKg, 6.82 percent higher than last year’s P2,200 per Lkg. Despite the increase in the average mill-site and wholesale prices, the prevailing retail price of raw sugar remained at P45 per kg. However, the prevailing retail price of refined sugar rose by 9 percent to P54.50 per kg from P50 per kg last year, based on SRA data.

The Philippines has decided to allocate all its sugar production in the current CY for the domestic market on expectations that output will be lower due to the adverse impact of weather on sugarcane crops.

Last month, the SRA Board issued Sugar Order (SO) 1 which mandated

that the entire sugar output for the current CY will be classified as “B,” or sugar for the domestic market.

The SRA board made the decision following the recent announcement of the state weather bureau of the reemergence of the La Niña phenomenon in the country which will coincide with the harvest and peak milling season in key sugar production areas.

The SRA’s initial pre-milling estimate for raw sugar production in CY 2021-2022 stands at 2.099 million metric tons (MMT), almost 2 percent lower than the 2.138 MMT recorded in the previous CY. Despite a carry-over raw sugar volume of 158,557 MT, the country would be better served with an all “B” sugar allocation for the current crop year, based on the supply and demand projection of the SRA Regulation Department.

“After consultation with sugar producers, almost all stakeholders recommended an all ‘B’ sugar allocation, with all farmers associations/ federations present in the consultation calling for a 100 percent ‘B’ sugar allocation for crop year 2021-2022,” SO 1 read.

A SHOPPER checks out the prices of sugar products at a local supermarket in this BusinessMirror file photo.

DOF, Neda back transfer of irrigation agency to DA DAR hands over delivery trucks to Sultan Kudarat farmers

By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario

T

HE Department of Finance (DOF) and the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) are supporting a proposal to transfer the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) from the Office of the President (OP) to the Department of Agriculture (DA).

The DA made the proposal in a letter to President Duterte in April, as “transferring NIA back to DA will support better integration and enhance coordination to maximize available resource to improve the productivity of Philippine agriculture.”

“By making NIA an attached agency of the DA, we believe that both agencies will be better able to fulfill their respective mandates

and deliver better outcomes for their shared benefit—the Filipino farmers,” said Finance Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez in an April 20 memorandum for the president supporting the proposal to transfer the NIA to the DA. Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Karl Kendrick Chua said: “Neda agrees with the merits raised by the DA to ensure stronger and better complementation of interventions and activities to develop the agriculture sector.”

“The NIA was created by virtue of Republic Act 3601 [1963], as amended, to expand irrigated farmlands in order to better program the production of agricultural crops, increase the productivity of our framers, and ensure a stable supply of farm commodities,” Chua said in his letter to

Deputy Executive Secretary for General Administration McJill Bryant Fernandez, on September 13.

Chua, who also serves as Neda director general, said transferring the NIA to DA is consistent with the priority strategy of the government under the Updated Philippine Development Plan 2017-2022.

“The transfer of supervision over NIA will also ensure the accelerated development of modern and climate resilient irrigation facilities which are critical in implementing DA’s reform agenda to achieve a modern and industrialized Philippine agriculture,” Chua said.

The NIA was placed under the Office of the President (OP) upon its creation in 1963. In 1972, it was attached to the Department of Public Works, Transportation, and Commu-

nication. In 1987, it was attached to both the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and DA. In 1992, it was transferred back to OP, pursuant to Executive Order (EO) 22, and then transferred again to DA, as an attached agency through Administrative Order 17.

In 2014, along with other three agencies (National Food Authority, Philippine Coconut Authority, and Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority), the NIA was again transferred to the OP through EO 165, under the supervision of the Presidential Assistant for Food Security and Agricultural Modernization.

The NIA Board of Directors is currently chaired by Cabinet Secretary Karlo Alexei Nograles. He also heads the Inter-Agency Task Force on Zero Hunger.

‘Lannie’ destroys P5.4-M rice crops in Western Visayas–DA

T

HE Department of Agriculture (DA) said 342 rice farmers in Western Visayas lost P5.44 million worth of crops after tropical depression Lannie struck the region.

In its latest bulletin on Lannie, the DA disclosed that about 195 metric tons (MT) of rice from 651 hectares of land were damaged by the tropical depression. The DA noted that the figures are still subject to validation.

The DA said it is ready to provide assistance to affected farmers which include a quick response fund to rehabilitate affected areas and availability of seeds for crop production.

Affected farmers that are insured will be indemnified by the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation while others may opt to tap the government’s survival and recovery loan program, according to the DA.

The DA said Western Visayas is the third-largest rice-producing region in the country contributing nearly 12 percent to national production. Last year, the region’s palay production inched up to 2.295 million metric tons (MMT), from 2.077 MMT in 2019.

The province of Iloilo is the major source of palay in the region accounting for 43 percent of the output,

followed by the provinces of Negros Occidental and Capiz with 21 percent and 16 percent, respectively.

“Palay sufficiency jumped to 122 percent in 2020 from 115 percent in 2019. This was attributed to the substantial increase in yield in the region especially in the provinces of Aklan and Iloilo with 14.25 percent and 10.30 percent, respectively,” the DA said. Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas

By Jonathan L. Mayuga @jonlmayuga

T

HE Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) recently turned over 2 units of delivery trucks to 2 agrarian reform beneficiaries’ organizations under the Linking Smallholder Farmers to Markets with Microfinance (LinkSFarMM) project of the agency.

LinkSFarMM is a DAR project that links agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) and smallholder farmers to the supply chain of products to help uplift the lives of ARBs, smallholder farmers, and farmer organizations.

DAR Regional Director Marion Y. Abella said the trucks were provided to address the farmers’ need for cheaper transportation of their products in the province.

“These hauling trucks will serve as an added service of ARBOs to its members and non-member farmers. The earnings from the low-rate rental of the trucks will be used as a business asset of the organization and for the maintenance of the trucks,” Abella said in a statement.

The delivery trucks were turned over to the Keytodac Coffee Growers Association Inc. (KCGAI) of Lebak and the Sitio Lam-alis Peace and Development Workers Association (SLPDVWA) of Columbio.

“This ensures that the recipient cooperative can easily transport their fresh produce to the market without delay, thereby getting the best price and higher profit. It will be a big help to our farmers especially during this troubled time of the pandemic,” DAR-Sultan Kudarat Provincial Agrarian Reform Provincial Officer Mary Jane Aguilar said.

Chief Agrarian Reform Program Officer Ludenia Juanday, congratulated the beneficiaries and challenged them to improve their agribusiness to usher in more opportunities for their organization.

Eric Bajada, KCGAI President from Lebak, and Didith Mangcal, SLPDVWA president from Columbio accepted the delivery trucks on behalf of the members of their organizations.

“Before, we had no way of transporting our coffee products in bulk to the market and had to sell it for lower prices. Now that we have this delivery truck, we can now use it to deliver our products, especially those coming from the upper valleys,” said Bajada.

“This pandemic affirmed our trust that the DAR is always ready to support us no matter what the situation is. They have provided us with training and farm inputs during this pandemic, and now, they have provided us with a delivery truck.”

An ambitious ethanol plan spurs food security fears in India I NDIA’S ambitious plan to cut the use of fossil fuels by promoting ethanol derived from rice, corn and sugar is drawing criticism from some experts who warn the move could undermine food security in the world’s second-most populous country.

In June, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration accelerated the nation’s ethanol goal by five years, seeking to double production and to have gasoline 20 percent blended with the spirit by 2025. To help meet the target, the government is offering financial assistance to biofuel producers and faster environmental clearances. The plan is also resulting in the diversion of food grains meant for the poor to companies at subsidized rates.

Even as many developed countries debate limiting policy support for grain-based biofuels amid reports of food-price increases and greenhouse-gas emissions from deforestation, India is seeing multifold benefits. The government ar-

gues that the new target will help the world’s third-largest oil consumer save 300 billion rupees ($4 billion) annually by cutting crude imports, reduce carbon emissions and boost farmers’ incomes.

But critics say it’s a self-goal for a country that’s struggled for years to feed its poor. Though the Green Revolution helped boost farm yields and turn India into a net exporter of wheat and rice, it still ranks 94th on the Global Hunger Index 2020 comprising 107 nations. The Food and Agriculture Organization estimates that about 209 million Indians, or about 15 percent of its population, were undernourished between 2018 and 2020. The coronavirus pandemic is also pushing more people into poverty, dealing a blow to decades of progress.

“It will always be the poor who will be affected worse as a result of diverting precious food grains to alternative energy conversion,” said

Shanthu Shantharam, who helped formulate the country’s biotechnology regulations in the 1990s and now teaches agricultural biotech at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. “As it is, the food security situation in the country is precarious.”

The report that maps out the new ethanol blending target primarily focuses on food-based feedstocks, with the government saying the program is a “strategic requirement” in light of grain surpluses and wide availability of technologies. Yet the blueprint is a departure from the 2018 National Policy on Biofuels, which prioritized grasses and algae; cellulosic material such as bagasse, farm and forestry residue; and, items like straw from rice, wheat and corn.

“India has a real opportunity here to become a global leader in sustainable biofuels policy if it chooses to refocus on ethanol made from wastes,” said Stephanie Searle, fuels program director at the International Council on Clean

Transportation. “This would bring both strong climate and air quality benefits, since these wastes are currently often burned, contributing to smog.”

Water crisis

THE new ethanol policy should ensure that it doesn’t drive farmers toward water-intensive crops and create a water crisis in a country where its shortage is already acute, said Ramya Natarajan, an energy researcher at the Centre for Study of Science, Technology and Policy, a think tank in Bengaluru. Rice and sugar cane, along with wheat, consume about 80 percent of India’s irrigation water.

“With our depleting groundwater resources, arable land constraints, erratic monsoons, and dropping crop yields due to climate change, food production must be prioritized over crops for fuel,” Natarajan said.

A ton of corn can typically pro-

duce about 350 liters of ethanol, while a similar quantity of rice can yield about 450 liters of the spirit.

For sugar cane, it’s about 70 liters.

Even in the US, food-versus-fuel fights have flared intermittently.

Some say the domestic fossil-fuel industry’s embrace of climate-friendly fuels has diverted corn and soy meal used to bulk up chickens and hogs, and made them more expensive.

For instance, demand for soy oil has pushed futures up about 80 percent in the past 12 months, while the fast-food industry has complained of paying more for everyday items such as mayonnaise.

These days, many developed countries are focusing more on electric vehicles to cut carbon emissions. The Biden administration’s infrastructure proposal has set aside $174 billion of investments in EVs, including subsidies, but relatively little for biofuels. India, which is also seeking to promote EVs, shouldn’t focus on both policies at the same

time as they aren’t complementary, said Kushankur Dey, chairman of the Centre for Food and Agribusiness Management at the Indian Institute of Management, Lucknow.

The push for ethanol poses no threat to India’s food security because the government has enough stockpiles of grains at warehouses of the staterun Food Corp. of India, said Sudhanshu Pandey, the top bureaucrat at the food ministry in New Delhi.

“The long-term planning of the government involves the creation of sufficient capacities so that half of the requirement of 20 percent blending is catered by grains, predominantly maize and the rest by sugar cane,” Pandey said.

State reserves stood at 21.8 million tons of rice as of September 1, against a requirement of 13.54 million tons, according to the food ministry. The blending plan would benefit corn and rice farmers, while addressing the issue of surplus, Pandey said. Bloomberg News

Envoys&Expats BusinessMirror

B4

Thursday, October 7, 2021

Embassy lauds 75 years of PHL-Denmark ties AMBASSADOR Leo Herrera-Lim (right photo) raises his glass at the diplomatic reception. HASSE FERROLD/DFA

C

OPENHAGEN—Part of the 75th-anniversary festivities of formal linkages between the Philippines and Denmark, the former’s embassy in this Danish capital city hosted a reception for the diplomatic corps and the business community on September 23.

More than 100 top dignitaries— including a large gathering of ambassadors and senior diplomats of foreign embassies in Copenhagen, senior Danish officials and business executives, among others, were present to mark the occasion at the

prestigious and historic Sølyst in Klampenborg.

In his speech, Ambassador Leo Herrera-Lim underscored the strong bilateral relations between the Republic of the Philippines and the Kingdom of Denmark, as he

acknowledged the two countries’ “shared vision of sustainability and commitment to green and sustainable growth that leaves no one behind.”

Herrera-Lim said that the European country is now home to close to 13,000 overseas Filipinos who positively contribute to the Danish economy in maritime, health care, construction and energy sectors.

He cited the 11.8-percent Philippine gross domestic product growth over the past quarter, and expressed optimism that the country’s economy will fully recover by the end of 2022. He thanked the Danish private sector’s role in strengthening the Philippine business industry with investments in renewable energy, manufacturing, infrastructure and shipbuilding in the country.

Director for Asia, Latin America

and Oceania Thomas Lehmann, the event’s guest of honor, lauded the Philippine-Danish partnership for sustainable growth: “Green development was part of the virtual political consultations between our two countries, which took place in February...as part of the ongoing dialogue[s] between our two countries. The consultations were an occasion to discuss our prosperous commercial relations, and share our joint solutions to overcome new challenges.”

The reception culminated with a video message from Secretary of Foreign Affairs Teodoro L. Locsin Jr., where he congratulated the two countries. Guests were shown a short video presentation, which featured congratulatory messages from business executives and Filipino leaders.

Remembering ‘Mang’ Recto H

OW does one write a fitting tribute to a man who made this section “stand,” and “stand out,” in the last four years and so?

I started by looking at his photos in my e-mail: pictures he took—especially those which documented his meetings with ambassadors, as well as events by foreign missions and the diplomatic community, and some with him. Because Recto L. Mercene was, largely, a photographer by heart: One who would make a key contribution to the country’s history as the lensman who captured stirring images that provoked pent-up emotions of a nation which yearned for positive change; whose camera’s rapid-fire clicks on that fateful day of August 21, 1983 at the Manila International Airport eventually sparked a revolution and altered the course of the nation’s timeline as we know it.

Those were the accounts of colleagues both from BusinessMirror and the industry on Mang Recto: Someone who holds a special place in Philippine photojournalism. In his company, I was in awe of the man and his stories: whether cruising inside his trusty 4x4, or while we enjoyed gracing many diplomatic functions prior to the pandemic.

(As to the whereabouts of the film of the photos taken at the tarmac, I queried if those were returned to him, as it would hold clues in solving the age-old mysteries surrounding the assassination of former senator Benigno Aquino Jr.: “God only knows where they are, Mike…”)

We would touch on various topics under the sun: About his transition from being an aviation pro to a journalist, the individuals he covered in his years in the business, as well as Recto, the family man.

He would freely share his admiration and, conversely, disgust at big names figuring in the headlines,

with some healthy expletives peppered on the latter because of their individual reputations. Indeed, I was in the company of a true-blue storyteller—in the real sense. He told stories through photos, and the printed word.

Those skills he made use of and were in full display in his countless articles about ambassadors and functions in this section. Before the health crisis struck, Mercene would churn out at least one lengthy feature of a diplomat every month, where he deftly threw questions and sometimes, bravely asked about difficult subjects that might unsettle the interviewee at first. But his amiable demeanor would eventually win over the foreign official being queried.

Well-read

IN case there would be a lull inbetween his assignments for Envoys&Expats, he would proactively reach out for a possible next task. His highly anticipated drafts were “world history lessons” of sorts; he would also sporadically throw in a piece of trivia, or general info on the side.

He once told the former Panamanian diplomat about his fancy and familiarity with Panama hats, only to receive a reply that they were originally from Ecuador. These hilarious anecdotes he made sure would form part of his mostly “serious” writeups. Yet, they also revealed the factual facets of his writing, culled from the wisdom and knowledge of his age, as well as the volumes of books he voraciously read. Such gems from Mang Recto would leave a great void for this section to be filled, and would be greatly missed by this author and his readers.

His knowledge of historic topics and subjects from the past was outstanding. I would often provide him enough leeway on submissions, “para masarap ang pag-sulat niyo, [so you (Mang Recto) could relish and

savor your writing].” He would often revert with compositions that turned out lengthy, but nonetheless substantial—and, on time. I had to respectfully apologize on several occasions that his materials would be subjected to trimming. “Okay, ikaw na bahala [Up to you]…” The onus was then on me to churn out a final version that would, at best, give justice to his by-line.

And he was rarely delayed for his meetings. An exception was during a supposed dialog with a then-newly installed ambassador, who turned him away for merely being 5 minutes late (despite the elderly journalist having braved the once notorious mid-morning northbound traffic on the Skyway). The gentleman that he is, he still proceeded with his writing chore by way of an e-mail interview, with nary a word of disgust or grumble from the uneventful schedule.

Fond farewell

PEERS from the diplomatic and foreign-affairs beat fondly called Mang Recto the “Dean”—perhaps a proper acknowledgment of his erudition and experience in their realm of activity. Social events would be less enjoyable without his company, seeing his gusto when savoring the culinary fares, and how he would sometimes “French exit” from the party—to the slight frustration of his table-mates.

He would also be a topic of documentaries produced by fellow reporters who are in awe of his achievements and “involvement” in modern Philippine history. Yet with all the attention, he remained humble in his demeanor, and without a hint of hubris, notwithstanding his incontrovertible contribution to local photojournalism.

In recent years I was witness to how his difficulty in speaking became pronounced. I made it a point to be with him in the majority of his

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A Filipino figured in Mexico’s 200th year of independence LA VOZ DE MÉXICO Amb. Gerardo Lozano

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HIS is a very special year for Mexicans, as we celebrate the bicentennial of the consummation of Mexico’s independence, half a millennium of indigenous resistance, and 700 years of the founding of Mexico-Tenochtitlan.

September 27, 1821—200 years ago—marked the end of the struggle for independence from the Spanish Crown which began 11 years earlier.

In the morning of September 16, 1810, the priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla rang the church bells of Dolores Hidalgo in Guanajuato, which urged people to unite and fight for freedom.

The beginning of this yearning was not easy for the insurgent group of heterogeneous composition among creoles, mestizos, indigenous people and slaves of African descent.

All were from different backgrounds, but united with the same goal: to achieve our self-determination.

Certainly, the insurgents were not alone in this fight; foreigners also participated, who were steep in the ideas of independence. They came from other Spanish colonies, such as the Philippines. At that time, it was administered from New Spain and had an important community of Mexicans. It was in this context that the figure of a young Filipino emerged: Ramón Fabié.

Fabié was born in Paco, Manila in 1785—the son of Pedro Crisologo who was a lawyer of the Royal Court, and Brigida de Jesús. He had his early studies on Philippine soil and then, in 1802, travelled to New Spain aboard the Manila Galleon Rey Carlos, to be educated at the Colegio de Minería. As he excelled in his studies, the Filipino took his professional examination on March 10, 1810 and then moved to Guanajuato for his apprenticeship at the Valenciana mine.

It was there that Fabié made his entry into Mexican history when,

in September 1810, the 25-yearold joined the insurgent army led

by Hidalgo and was appointed lieutenant colonel of the infantry. Like other young engineers who were of deep, liberal ideas, he was in favor of emancipation, collaborated with his knowledge to the libertarian cause in which he believed, and convinced of the need to change the unfair colonial reality in which most of the population was mired.

He participated in the fortification of the city of Guanajuato, where he directed the manufacture of arms and ammunition.

Unfortunately, Fabié was later apprehended by the royalist forces and executed by hanging on November 28, 1810, with no knowledge of his burial site. His feat is nonetheless remembered in my country, and his name is inscribed in bronze letters in one of the walls of the Palacio de Minería in Mexico City. In addition, some streets and even a square have been named in his memory.

Curiously, this important episode in the history of Mexico and the sacrifice of Fabié is little known in the Philippines. For this, on the occasion of the 200th year of the consummation of Mexico’s independence, the Mexican Embassy in Manila honored his memory as it unveiled a commemorative plaque in its premises.

The heroic deed of the young Filipino is one more example of the strong ties that have united Mexico and the Philippines for more than 450 years. Links facilitated by the trans-Pacific route of the Acapulco-Manila Galleon which, together with the administration of the Philippines by the Viceroyalty of New Spain until 1821, opened the doors to a fluid exchange of goods, but also of people and with them: ideas, culture and traditions that prevail to this day.

Australia sends ₧57-M aid for AFP’s Covid response PHOTOGRAPH SMILE: Recto Mercene’s snapshots—whether taken by him, or with his images in them—are momentous in their own, special way. MIKE POLICARPIO

interviews with envoys to do the “asking” on his behalf. But whatever inconvenience his vocal disability brought, he surely more than made up with his writing, both in terms of quality and being prolific. His passion for his craft and profession was visible and felt, even if he was in his 70s.

In one of our last e-mail exchanges, Mang Recto shared about his happiness on being completely vaccinated, and that we would be able to have coffee again soon. That was followed a few weeks after by a message from him hinting of being sick. But somehow, being the strongwilled and optimistic person that he was, I knew he was to recover.

Her daughter Danica’s text messages late in September bolstered my faith that he will pull through, despite him still being in the hospital. But then again, the Almighty apparently decided differently about the situation...

This humble tribute does not even hold a candle to the way Recto de Leon Mercene had positively touched lives and made a difference, especially to this writer. The latter is nonetheless proud to have spent quality time—even for a short spell—with a great man, a gentleman, and a genuinely good man, who will be fondly remembered as simply: “Mang Recto;” and to colleagues, a veritable “envoy” in heaven. Mike Policarpio

AMBASSADOR Steven J. Robinson AO and Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana (third and fourth from right) lead the turnover of medical and personal protective equipment, together with officials from the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

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HE Commonwealth of Australia continues to assist the Armed Forces of the Philippines’s (AFP) response against the pandemic.

On behalf of the Australian government, Ambassador Steven J. Robinson AO handed over medical and personal protective equipment (PPE) valued at P57 million (AU$ 1.5 million) to Defense Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana and AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Jose Faustino Jr. W it h a P35 -m i l l ion g ra nt (AU$1 million) in June 2020, Australia provided support to expand the Victoriano Luna Medical Center (VLMC) Infectious Ward to handle cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) infections.

Said country also sent additional medical equipment and PPE worth P70 million (AU$2 million) in May 2021. With the third tranche of support, Australia’s assistance to AFP’s Covid-19 response currently sums up to P162 million (AU$4 million).

“Throughout this unpredictable... pandemic, Australia’s approach has been to provide flexible and responsive support to the Philippines,” Rob-

inson said. “The medical supplies are intended for VLMC’s Covid-19 testing efforts and management of [infected] patients, particularly needed by challenges posed by the Delta variant.”

The handover is part of the series of activities in the Philippines surrounding Indo-Pacific Endeavour 2021 (IPE21) of Australia’s maritime-task group composed of HMAS (or His Majesty’s Australian Ships) Canberra, Sirius, and Anzac. “[IPE21] is a great opportunity for engagement between our armed forces,” the ambassador further remarked. “[The] formal handover of our third phase of assistance to the AFP is a tangible way of underlining the strong relationship that exists between [our nations].”

According to the Australian Embassy, the IPE21 is a flagship regional-engagement activity, and a demonstration of Australia’s steadfast support for a peaceful, inclusive and resilient region, with Asean at its core. It includes a number of contactless at-sea activities, training sessions and seminars on maritime security.

Parentlife BusinessMirror

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Editor: Gerard S. Ramos

• Thursday, October 7, 2021

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School year off to a rocky start? 4 ways parents can help kids get back on track OCTOBER IS A MONTH OF CELEBRATIONS FOR RETAIL GIANT RETAIL giant SM celebrates the birth month of its founder Henry Sy Sr. this October with Super Month, a monthlong festivity filled with special treats, amazing deals, and super experiences. Discover amazing deals on your favorite brands at The SM Store and super shopping and dining deals at SM Supermalls throughout the month.

It’s been 63 years since Sy opened his first shoe store in October 1958 in downtown Manila, and the retail group where it all started leads the celebrations with its Super 10.10 Sale ongoing until October 10 at all SM Store branches nationwide. Shop at SM until October 9 and get a P100 super cashback voucher with a minimum P1,000 single-receipt purchase. On October 10, SMAC cardholders will be entitled to an extra 10-percent off with a minimum P3,000 singlereceipt purchase.

A highlight of the Super Month is the Founder’s Weekend from October 15 to 17. Supersized deals await at The SM Store as it celebrates the birthday of Sy and SM’s shoe store beginnings with the very first Super Shoes Day on October 15. Enjoy huge discounts on top shoe brands across all branches nationwide. The Founder’s Weekend also features a Super Sale, a BDO-MasterCard Rebate, and bank and e-wallet promos.

The SM Store’s Super Deal of the Day features daily deals from October 19 to 28 on essentials, extras and everything in between. Whether it is for that much-deserved pampering and glow-up, toys and baby’s necessities, kitchen and home beautification projects, or you simply want to get a head-start on Christmas shopping, this is a period to mark on everyone’s calendars. The celebration continues at the SM Supermalls, with more shopping and dining Super Deals at your favorite SM mall or at home with SM Malls Online.

More offers for the whole family await at participating stores and with partners Grab, Visa, and Booky throughout the month. Plus, consumers get a chance to snap up exclusive Super Weekend Deals, including BOGO deals, supersized treats, and SM Malls Online’s much-awaited Super Midnight Flash Sale. More fun can be had with the Super Tiktok Challenge ongoing until October 15. Family, friends and fur babies can flex their TikTok skills to the tune of SM’s iconic jingle “We’ve Got It All for You” for a chance to win P100,000 shopping money.

SM also celebrates tireless Super Riders. It is time to give back to these everyday heroes who tirelessly deliver everything from essential items such as groceries and medicines to food from favorite restaurants. Simply upload a selfie with a delivery rider for a chance to win a Suzuki Skydrive Sport Motorcycle for your rider and P10,000 SM shopping money for yourself.

This offer is ongoing until October 17.

THE Epiphone ENOLTQCH1GC electric guitar and other deals at up to 60-percent off can be found at Crescendo stores from October 15 to 17.

WALK in comfort with lightweight and breathable shoes like the Grandpro Rally Laser Cut Sneaker from Cole Haan, now available at sizeable discount.

ENJOY a sumptuous Chinese feast with all-you-can-eat yumcha (Chinese dumplings) for only P688 at Shanghai Saloon at The Podium.

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BY CHRISTOPHE� A. KEARNEY University of Nevada, Las Vegas

ENDING a child to school in the morning is a daily ritual for millions of families worldwide. Unfortunately, the attendance process has become highly disrupted due to Covid-19. The fact that many kids have been away from a physical school building for a year or more presents a number of challenges for them and for their family members as schools reopen and resume in-person classes.

As a clinical child psychologist who specializes in school attendance problems, I offer four ways parents can help students adapt to the new school year and improve their attendance.

1. Solidify the morning routine. Morning preparation routines may have become very laid-back or even unnecessary during the pandemic.

Parents and children will need to practice their routines by setting waking times for all family members and having a regular order for getting ready for school. Give everyone more than enough time to complete all their tasks and try to complete the entire routine about 30 minutes before everyone has to leave home in case any problems arise.

2. Get academic help if needed. Another important challenge for students reentering a physical school space is the need to relearn important academic skills.

Many kids lost ground in reading and mathematics during school shutdowns and will need to focus again on key basic skills such as comprehension, writing and multiplication tables. This may require extra help and tutoring, as well as class time devoted to reviewing older material. In addition, many kids will need to relearn basic classroom routines as well as new health and safety protocols, such as social distancing or mask mandates.

Parents are encouraged to work with teachers to understand the expectations for homework and behavior and remain aware of, and ready for, sudden changes to learning formats. If a child’s progress in these areas seems a bit behind, then a conversation with the school counselor may be a good idea to set up a plan to help the student reach grade-level work.

3. Practice social skills. Students reentering a physical school space will also need to relearn and practice important social skills that may have slipped a bit through all the Zoom conversations.

Although kids may have had virtual discussions with their friends, direct contact with others presents its own challenges. Many kids will need to practice

again how to start and maintain a conversation, control their anxiety and anger, assert themselves in different situations and perform in front of others— for example, for an oral presentation, athletic event or music recital.

Parents can help their children practice these skills and give them methods to cope with stress, such as relaxation and breathing techniques, that can be used at school or in situations where the child feels anxious.

4. Speak up about trauma issues. Other children will have even more substantial challenges returning to school, perhaps because of trauma experienced

outside of school. Parents should work with school officials to let them know of any special problems or issues a child may have faced during a shutdown, and work out a plan to help the child ease back into school.

This could involve, for example, identifying places at school a child could use to calm down or allowing extended times for work and other tasks.

In some cases, therapy may be an important choice for children with emotional or behavioral problems and their families. Working with a school counselor to seek out mental health services may be helpful in this regard, especially if a child is missing school or is very distressed about going to school. THE CONVERSATION

Raising mentally strong kids THE conversations on mental health have been greatly associated with adults, but mental health problems can occur at any age, even among children.

The fact is that childhood experiences can influence how the brain develops to build the foundations of strong mental health throughout one’s life.

An expert from Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed, www.makatimed.net.ph) says that it is in the hands of parents and guardians to raise kids who can solve problems and cope with hardships.

“Support from the adults around them can help children become more resilient and develop the courage and confidence to be prepared for any life challenges,” says Anna Josefina Vazquez-Genuino, MD, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist of the Section of Psychiatry of the country’s leading health institution.

She shares different approaches that parents and guardians can adapt to raise mentally healthy kids.

■ LEARNING FROM MISTAKES. Kids should learn that it’s alright to make mistakes, but they also need to learn not to make the same mistakes over and over again. Failing can be an educational experience, teaching kids how to become stronger and wiser in facing life challenges, says Vazquez-Genuino. She adds that sometimes what we think was a mistake might turn out to be an opportunity for success.

“To help them learn from their mistakes, it also helps to talk about what happened and ask them about their thoughts and opinion on how they reacted and dealt with a situation. Try to ask how else they could have handled the situation. It would probably be better to avoid blaming the child, or even asking questions like ‘What do you think would be a better way of reacting or handling that situation’ as this insinuates that they are not good or better,” VazquezGenuino adds. She also says that children should be encouraged to approach their parents for whatever doubts or questions they have in mind.

■ ACCEPTING CONSEQUENCES OF MISTAKES. If kids do make mistakes, let them be, the doctor also says.

“Saving a child from even the slightest discomfort can make them dependent on you in solving every problem, and it won’t help them build mental muscle in the long run,” the doctor says. The role and attitude of parents toward allowing kids to make mistakes

evolves depending on the age of the child for their own safety. While parents should keep an eye on young children at all times, Vazquez-Genuino says that they may gradually give some freedom to preschoolers three to six years old, like allowing them to decide on what to wear or what toy to play with. For elementary school children, they may start giving them more responsibilities such as preparing their school bag, cleaning their room, helping with household chores, and taking care of their younger siblings if any.

■ WE ARE NOT THE MISTAKES WE MAKE. It’s also important not to blame, find fault, get mad, or rub in a child’s mistakes as that may make them lose confidence in themselves and be afraid to open up, aside from possibly becoming sad and seeing themselves as a failure. “We can help them to just take these mistakes in stride, console and encourage them to get up, try again and not to lose hope or give up. Charge it to experience and become the stronger and more mature person they have become as a result of these mistakes. After all, we should not let our mistakes define who we are,” says Vazquez-Genuino.

■ LISTEN TO WHAT THEY ARE SAYING AND HOW THEY ARE FEELING. Children need to learn how to accept and deal

with uncomfortable emotions, be it on their own or seeking help from others. “Of course, you’d want your children to be happy, so it’s just natural to try to cheer them up when they’re upset or mad. But kids should be able to learn to regulate their emotions and not depend on something or someone else to make them feel better,” Vazquez-Genuino points out.

This doesn’t mean that children should be left on their own when dealing with their feelings. Parents should talk to them and ask what happened that made them feel upset or sad. Listen to what they are saying and how they are feeling, read their nonverbal signals and be accepting of how they are reacting. “Try not to judge or impose what you want or insist you are right.

Understand their perspective and their feelings. You could just reflect back what their feelings are and if at a loss for words, be honest,” the doctor adds.

It may not be as emphasized, but the mental health of a child is as important as his or her physical well-being. By providing children with the necessary tools—including professional help if necessary—to cope with their emotions and problems, parents and guardians are already giving them a good head start in life.

PHOTO BY KELLY SIKKEMA ON UNSPLASH

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What men should know about thinning hair TransUnion research reveals consumers’ increased appetite for alternative lending retailers have even been extending BNPL to products or services beyond the usual consumer goods, such as vet care. There is a huge growth potential for BNPL, and TransUnion is focused on helping lenders accommodate evolving consumer needs by helping inform risk decisions so that the economic viability of BNPL lending can be sustained.

Lenders that use advanced information and insights and digital onboarding technology can grow market share, while also safeguarding themselves and consumers from fraud. Done right, consumer lending has the ability to stimulate economic activity and benefit the nation as a whole,” said Arellano.

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RANSUNION’S Q3 2021 Philippine Consumer Pulse study has uncovered that consumer awareness and appetite for alternative lending methods is broadening. Specifically, Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) facilities have high awareness among consumers, with 74% of Millennials (born 1980–1994) and 78% of Gen Xers (born 1965–1979) saying they’ve heard of BNPL services. Nearly half (45%) of all respondents also reported they have used BNPL services in the past 12 months.

Filipinos’ perceived access to credit—or lack thereof—may also have something to do with the high awareness and use of BNPL services. Over half (55%) of respondents in the latest study believed access to credit is important to achieve their financial goals, but only just over a third (36% - an increase of three percentage points from Q2 2021) said they have sufficient access to credit and lending products. Despite this, nearly half (46%) of respondents said they plan to apply for new or refinance existing credit in the next year.

Financial institutions extending BNPL as an alternative form of lending should pay particular attention to Millennials and Gen Z (born 1995–2003). The survey revealed that among those who have used

BNPL services in the past 12 months, they are the generations most curious with 40% and 38%, respectively, saying they used BNPL because they “just wanted to try it”. Meanwhile, Gen X was the generation most likely to make larger purchases with the service at 34%. Baby Boomers (born 1944–1964) was the generation who most said they used BNPL in order to spread payments over time (60%). More than 30% of each generation surveyed said they used Buy Now Pay Later services because it was easy to apply for it.

“The growing popularity of Buy Now Pay Later coincides with the convenience, availability, and smooth transactions that consumers have come to expect from digital services. Lenders looking to implement campaigns in this evolving and growing area must be able to establish an underwriting system that can identify good customers in order to sustain that reasonable balance between risk and opportunity, and great customer experiences,” said Pia Arellano, TransUnion Philippines president and CEO. “With BNPL gaining traction, we are seeing a growing opportunity for financial services providers and even marketers to support consumers during this difficult time. In more mature global credit markets,

Fighting fraud schemes targeting consumers

IN the latest Consumer Pulse study, almost half (48%) of Philippine respondents said they have been targeted by a digital fraud attempt in the last three months. Among those targeted, phishing (44%) and third-party seller scams on legitimate online retail websites (43%) were the two most common tactics employed by fraudsters online.

"At TransUnion, we’ve found that harnessing device intelligence, in addition to our own bureau data and alternative data from our partners, expose fraud and fraud linkages that can’t be detected by simple face or ID scans alone. We are committed to continuously innovating to provide our members with the tools they need to grow their business and protect them and the consumers they serve from fraud,” said Arellano.

TransUnion’s global Consumer Pulse study quantifies the ongoing financial impact of COVID-19. This online survey of 1,100 adults in the Philippines was conducted Aug. 11–17, 2021 by TransUnion in partnership with thirdparty research provider, Qualtrics® Research-Services.

Get that needed medical attention: Metro Pacific hospitals now offer homecare options

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TAYING healthy during the pandemic and getting your needed medical attention, has become more difficult these days. With the onslaught of the dreaded Delta Variant, emergency rooms have been full for the past 6 weeks, patients end up lining up in their cars in the parking lot, or are told to go back home to be waitlisted. Doctors’ clinics are also limiting the number of patients they are willing to see, prioritizing urgent cases only. And, most of all, especially if the ailment is not Covid-related, patients think twice to go near a hospital for fear of getting infected.

In response to these challenges, healthcare workers have now been reaching out to attend to their patients in the comfort and safety of their homes. While Metro Pacific Hospitals have continued to keep their hospitals safe for visiting by improving medical safety protocols throughout their hospital premises, they are now promoting their homecare services, telling patients “Don’t delay consulting your doctor. There are now options to get immediate medical advice.” These homecare services are teleconsultations and blood extractions for laboratory tests, and depending on your location, RT-PCR testing, mobile X-ray, physical therapy rehab, and vaccinations, etc.

“Remote Home Care services have enabled our hospitals to better cope with the current Covid surges by allowing the treatment of mild and moderate patients in the comfort of their homes, instead of waiting and clogging hospitals’ ERs ‘just in case’ they become worse. This allows our hospitals and doctors to allocate limited Covid beds/facilities/resources based on medical need, i.e. for severe and critical cases.” says Metro Pacific Hospital Group CEO Augie Palisoc Jr. “For our own sake and for those around us, it is very important that we do not

dismiss mild symptoms such as body aches, sore throat or slight fever nowadays.” said Dr. Saturnino Javier, Chief Medical Officer of MakatiMed. “Covid-19 can be present with minimal or even no symptoms at all. Early recognition and subsequent management guided by medical personnel, even through home care services or via teleconsultations, can alter the course of this vicious infection - especially for the elderly and those with co-morbidities like hypertension, diabetes, asthma and immunocompromised states.”

In the recent surges of 2021 alone, about 40,000 covid patients were tested, treated and/or monitored remotely, patients who would have otherwise had to endure the long queues just to enter the Emergency Rooms of the hospitals. Almost 20,000 more non-covid patients were tested and treated without having to visit the hospitals. Instead of turning patients away due to the hospitals’ full capacity, Metro Pacific hospitals have extended their reach and expanded their service offerings, all in the spirit of making quality healthcare more accessible and safe for patients, especially during crisis times like these.

Metro Pacific Hospitals is the largest private hospital chain in the Philippines, with 18 hospitals nationwide: Makati Medical Center, Asian Hospital, Cardinal Santos Medical Center, Manila Doctors Hospital, Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, De Los Santos Medical Center, Marikina Valley Medical Center and Delgado Memorial in Metro Manila. Central Luzon Doctors Hospital, Sacred Heart Hospital of Malolos,

Calamba Medical Center and Los Baños Doctors Hospital in Luzon. Riverside Medical Center and Ramiro Community Hospital in the Visayas. Davao Doctors Hospital, St. Elizabeth Hospital, West Metro Medical Center and Manuel J. Santos Hospital in Mindanao.

Metro Pacific’s network of 18 hospitals in the Philippines is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being, particularly Target 3.3. By 2030, end the epidemics of AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, and neglected tropical diseases and combat hepatitis, water-borne diseases and other communicable diseases.

To book your home care services in some of these hospitals, you may check out the following links.

Makati Medical Center: https:// makatimed.net.ph/accessible-makatimed-care Asian Hospital & Medical Center: https://www.asianhospital.com/asian-homecare-clinic/; https://online.asianhospital. com/; https://ahmceconsults.hopprlab.com/ Cardinal Santos Medical Center: https://www.csmceconsult.com/; https://bit. ly/CardinalonWheelsFAQs Manila Doctors Hospital: https://bit. ly/MDHHomeHealthcare; https://bit.ly/ MDHRovingMed De Los Santos Medical Center: https:// bit.ly/DLSMCHomeHealth; https://bit.ly/ Covid-HomeHealthService-QueueForm; https://rtpcr.dlsmc.ph/drivethru ; https://bit. ly/DLSMCDriveThruLab Marikina Valley Medical Center : https://mvmc.com.ph/HomeCareServices; https://mvmc.com.ph/COVIDHomeCare Central Luzon Doctors Hospital: https://cldh.ph/homecare/; https://www. facebook.com/CLDHTarlac Sacred Heart Hospital of Malolos: https://bit.ly/3hRZVwX.

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N most cases, thinning hair (it is when our hair loses its volume and thickness) is caused by different factors which may vary from one person to another.

Although it's already a common concern for most men, many are not comfortable with this occurrence and are not aware of what to do. That’s the main reason why we looked for an expert to lead us to the right solutions.

We talked to Mutya Malapaya, Educator of American Crew Philippines, and here’s her expert recommendation for everyone suffering from premature hair loss:

“American Crew recommends 2 steps to reduce hair thinning and strengthen hair strands, oneis by following a 6-week program and the next a hair maintenance”, started Malapaya. The first step will require 6 weeks of daily use of American Crew’s Fortifying Shampoo that aims to remove dirt build-up, refresh the scalp while leaving the hair soft and clean, and American Crew’s Fortifying Scalp Treatment, as a Leavein Treatment once every day in six weeks.

The treatment significantly improves hair volume/body, and thickens hair and improves hair flexibility.

“The second step, should happen after 6 weeks as a maintenance, and this will involve the same products mentioned above, with a slight chance for the Fortifying Scalp Treatment, it can be used for a minimum of 3x a week”, ends Malapaya.

Although Malapaya mentioned that results may vary from every individual, American Crew released a research that 78% of men noticed stronger hair.

Corner Pizza presents dream combo: Detroit Style Pizza-Pepperoni and Parmesan crusted garlic bread

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RE you a big pizza fan? A true pizza lover? You're not alone. Pizza is one of the world's most beloved food, and with good reason. It’s often filling, delicious, and available in a wide range of palate-pleasing crusts.

The Detroit Style pizza is one of the most sought-after pizza crusts today, bringing out the best and full experience true pizza lovers long for. With its distinctive rectangular, thick-crust, crispy, and chewy pizza baked with edge-to-edge cheese, tomato sauce on top, and other toppings, Detroit Style pizza was built for savoring.

Corner Pizza’s new Detroit Style Pizza – Pepperoni is made extra thick with 50% more cheese. Topping it with 50 flavorful pepperoni slices on a chewy and cheesecrusted pizza crust layered with rich tomato sauce, making it a 100% pizza love experience!

Wondering what makes Detroit Style pizza unique from other types of pizza? 1.

Crispy Cheesy Crusted Edge (Cheddar crust to give that extra cheesy crunch); 2. 50% More Cheese (Double layer of mozzarella and cheddar cheese for a cheesy pizza experience); 3. Topped with Rich Tomato Sauce (Made richer with an extra heaping of tomato sauce on top to balance the extra cheesy pizza); and 4. Extra thick, Topped from Edge to Edge (Have more of what you love, thick and chewy for even more extra pizza goodness.)

Thicky, chewy, and cheesy Detroit Style Pizza — Pepperoni can be enjoyed by pizza lovers for P599.

In addition, Corner Pizza debuted Parmesan Crusted Garlic Bread. You can enjoy four thick parmesan-crusted garlic

bread slices that are crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, perfectly paired with their special salsa sauce for P129.

Corner Pizza is a new player in the Philippine’s pie-dominated arena. Last November 2020, it introduced a squareshaped pizza that is bigger by square inch than its ordinary 12” round counterpart.

Marco Siy, who ideated the concept, shared how he thought of it as a deliverydriven virtual brand during the pandemic: “Corner Pizza was born given the pandemic situation last year, by maximizing the delivery service and products of Kenny Rogers Roasters.”

With these new and exciting products, Corner Pizza has proven that they are unstoppable when it comes to creating and innovating delicious pizza treats for everyone. “We don’t cut corners in the selection of ingredients, preparation, and shape. This is further strengthened by our new pizza that has a thick and chewy crust – Detroit Pepperoni. And we don’t plan to stop there, there are lots of exciting products soon,” Marco added.

To snag a box (or boxes) of these chewy, cheesy, and crusty Detroit Style Pizza, you can order them now by calling 8-5559000 or go to www.cornerpizza.com.ph for delivery! Get a FREE 4pcs. Parmesan Crusted Garlic Bread with every Detroit Pizza purchase until October 17.

MOA GLOBE LIGHTS UP FOR 75 YEARS OF DENMARK-PHILIPPINES RELATIONS. In celebration of 75 years of Denmark-Philippines diplomatic relations, Danish Ambassador to the Philippines Grete Sillasen and SM Mall of Asia Senior Assistant Vice President for Operations Perkin So led the commemorative lighting of the anniversary logo at the iconic SM Mall of Asia Globe. The anniversary logo encapsulates the theme for this year’s celebration, “Partners in Progress for Sustainable Growth”, through the depiction of windmills with wind blades in the shape of each country’s local flowers – our own sampaguita and Denmark’s daisy.

Editor: Anne Ruth Dela Cruz

Health&Fitness BusinessMirror

Kids should get Covid-19 jabs when supply is ready and stable–experts

By Rory Visco

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Contributor

rowing up, most adults have experienced what it’s like to be vaccinated by numerous vaccines against ailments and help prevent unnecessary deaths among children. Many have mixed experiences, primarily because of the needles and not really because of the vaccines.

But now, with Covid-19, the question is should children aged 12 to 17 years old be inoculated with a vaccine against a new and complex virus? Can the adult version of the Covid-19 vaccines work on them with the same promised results? Does the country have enough vaccines in its stockpile?

Are our children really in danger of Covid-19?

So far, the only Covid-19 vaccines approved by experts for use of the 12 to 17 age bracket in the country is Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna under an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) granted by the Food and Drug Administration of the Philippines.

Considerations for vaccination Dr. Ma. Liza Antoinette Gonzales, Professor at the UP-PGH Department of Pediatrics, said that Covid-19 is generally mild in children and adolescents compared to adults, but the true burden of SARS-CoV-2 virus in children remains unclear. However, there are some factors that may increase the risk of severe Covid-19 in children. These include cardiovascular, neurologic conditions, medical

complexity, chronic lung disease including asthma, immunosuppression, hematology/oncology, genet ic cond it ions, endocr ine (including diabetes), obesity and prematurity.

When using Covid-19 vaccines on adolescents and kids, certain issues need to be considered.

“These include epidemiology [disease severity and complications, emergence of variants], safety, efficacy/effectiveness, mathematical modeling on population level of impact in vaccinating this age group, programmatic implications and potential vaccination delivery strategies and acceptance of vaccination in this age group from people on the street or even the parents,” she noted.

Another thing to consider, Dr. Gonzales said, is herd immunity, which can only happen when there is a significant proportion of the population who are immune, either through vaccination or from getting the infection.

For SARS-CoV-2, the herd immunity threshold is at 60 to 80 percent, but it will depend on the efficacy of the vaccine. If vaccine’s efficacy is at 90 to 95 percent with

r-naught of 2.5, vaccination coverage should be around 70 to 80 percent. But with lower vaccine efficacy of about 62 percent, almost “all” or about 80 or 90 percent of the population should be vaccinated, including children.

For the two vaccines with EUA for adolescents, Pfizer (ages 12 to 15) and Moderna (12 to 17), both produced greater or similar immune response compared to young adults, both have a favorable safety profile, and were also highly effective against Covid-19.

Dr. Gonzales also pointed to the Israeli experience with the 16 to 18-year-olds in their population.

She noted that vaccine effectiveness was at 98 percent against symptomatic Covid, and 98 percent against hospitalization for that age bracket, with no cases of severe or critical morbidity among vaccinated 16 to 18 year-olds from mid-January to mid-May 2021, with 15 non-vaccinated adolescents hospitalized in severe condition, two in critical, and only one Covid-19 death.

On the local front There is no doubt the mRNA vaccines (Pfizer and Moderna) are both effective and safe for children. “ T he Department of Health All-Experts Group reiterates their initial recommendation that vaccination among children and adolescents, even those with comorbidities, should only begin once the supply of vaccines is adequate and stable. So, it’s not really a question of efficacy anymore but more of supply.”

She added that the position is supported by the Philippine Pediatric Society and the Pediatric Infectious Disease Society of the Philippines, who recommended that the priority should still be the more vulnerable adult group.

Once a sufficient percentage of this priority adult group have been vaccinated, then vaccinating those 12 years and above can start, and priority should be given to areas with high transmission and those with comorbidities.

Overall, Dr. Gonzales summarized that vaccinating children against Covid-19 will be essential to protect their health and establishing herd immunity.

The government, through President Duterte, already announced that the pilot implementation of pediatric vaccination will start in Metro Manila by October 15. On Monday, October 4, the Department of Health released the list of comorbidities for the pediatric group that will be vaccinated in the pilot implementation, plus the major pre-requisites for the vaccination such as parents’ consent, doctor’s clearance, and assent of the child to be vaccinated.

Also, the National Task Force Against Covid-19 (NTF) announced that the pilot implementation for pediatric vaccination will be held in six sites, namely, Philippine Children’s Medical Center, National Children’s Hospital, the Philippine Heart Center, and the Fe Del Mundo Medical Center, all in Quezon City, the Pasig City Children’s Hospital, and Philippine General Hospital in Manila.

After 14 days, the NTF said the rollout will happen in select local government units in the National Capital Region such as Manila, Pasig, Taguig, Makati, Quezon City, and Mandaluyong, according to the NTF chief implementer and vaccine czar Carlito Galvez Jr. After 30 days, the vaccination program will cover the rest of the NCR, including other regions that have inoculated at least 50 percent of their senior citizens or A2 group, according to the NTF.

Medical frontliners told to seek help for mental health issues

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here is no doubt anymore that the Covid-19 pandemic has had a great impact on every one’s lives, particularly educat ion, l ivel i hood, employment and job security, and other implications.

More important to note, however, is that challenges to mental health have significantly increased over the past one and a half years that the pandemic is ongoing, with 3.6 million Filipinos suffering from poor mental health D u r i ng t he “ Ment a l Hea lt h Matters” webinar organized by the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF), the webinar’s panelists were asked about mental health issues confronting medical frontliners. One issue is that many expressed continued fear and stress from the situation, specifically in contracting the virus which they may bring home to their families.

The physical and emotional fatigue because of work and other concerns are taking its toll.

Ma r i f lor “ Yeng ” Gatc h a l i a n from the University of Perpetual Health DALTA, said that mental health issues are present. There is a need to be aware of it so that it can be managed. However, feelings of distress and sadness are perfectly normal. She added that everything that’s happening are all new. Even in the hospitals where patients’ queue has a lready reached the parking lot, this is something new to the frontliners no matter how long they’ve worked in hospitals.

Fear of infection Before, they can go home after their duty and bond with their families; that is not the situation anymore since there is the fear of infecting their family members with the virus.

“The mixed emotions really give us negative feelings because we are still trying to get accustomed to it. This is normal, but we have to know the parameters.”

Riyan Portuguez from the Wellbridge Health, Inc., acknowledges that everything the medical frontliners are undergoing are genuine and difficult, and that they are feeling tired already. She also echoed what Gatchalian said, that “we need to be aware of what our bodies feel to be able to determine when we should seek professional help with what we feel.”

She said some people like the medical frontliners also feel they are being neglected by the government and are getting tired of this setup.

The response of the government has an effect on their work. While they try to follow policies, they strongly feel that the government is lacking in the way they treat them

Proper management Pierce Docena, a registered psychometrician from the University of the Philippines—Visayas (Tacloban College), likewise agreed that there might be something lacking not only on the side of the government but also in the local government or even the hospital administration level. “It is important that there is

proper management within the organization, and that contributes to everyone’s mental health. This is something they should think about as well.”

As to the when frontliners should seek professional help, it is an issue of “react,” which is doing something without thinking, and “respond,” which is we think first before we respond, according to Gatchalian.

She said that when we feel too toxic or burned out, the thinking part is already gone. “When this is already an impairment in our regular, daily functions like sleeping, loss of concentration or sleep, experience of distressful thoughts, and if all these are ongoing for quite some time already, then it may be the time to seek professional help to help us manage whatever we are experiencing for it not to progress to a psychological disorder.”

For persons with disabilities, specifically women like Melagros Maguiling, president of the DifferentlyAbled Women Network (DAWN), disabled women volunteers, just like the medical frontliners, also experience stressful situations due to the pandemic like how long it will last, will they be able to do work, bills to pay, also government support.

“Women with disabilities somewhat experience the same things as medical frontliners, the anxiety, stress, burnout, and they also need all the support they can get.”

Community-based approach On the part of government, Dr. Bev-

erly Ho, Director IV, Health Promotion and Communication Service, of the Department of Health (DOH), said that during and even before the pandemic, the department’s goal has been to democratize mental health services and promotion. “This means everyone has a role to play in improving the environment for all of us so that our behavior on how we react to situations will be more supportive and enabling.”

She said that before, when people talk about health behavior, including mental health, it’s often very individual-based. Clearly, she said, the framework has to change, and as much as individual behavior is important, the enabling environment has significantly become more important as well. She said the DOH, among its initiatives on mental health, has adopted a communitybased approach, that mental health services are accessible on the frontlines through the regular health workers and even lay volunteers and not just by specialists.

Rene Meily, president of the PDRF, said mental health has been one of the major problems in this medical emergency, still with no end in sight, specifically for the medical frontliners who constantly face danger, despair and distress. “For them, going to work every day is an act of courage for they are at the eye of the Covid-19 storm. What we can do to help is to continue to support them on how they can cope. Let us join this battle and remember that we are all in this together.” Rory Visco

Thursday, October 7, 2021 B7

DOST says ‘lagundi,’ VCO good for mild Covid cases

By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco

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he latest studies commissioned by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) showed that lagundi and virgin coconut oil (VCO) have helped significantly as adjuvant therapy only for mild Covid-19 cases.

Adjuvant therapy, also known as adjunct therapy and adjuvant care, is given in addition to the primary or initial therapy to maximize its effectiveness.

It is not the main treatment or medicine for the disease.

At a recent virtual forum, Dr. Cecilia C. Marambe Lazarte, Director of the UP-Manila National Institute of Health, and Dr. Imelda Agdeppa of the DOSTFood and Nutrition Research Institute, presented the results of their studies on the use of VCO and lagundi in improving the efficacy of Covid vaccines.

Agdeppa shared that when VCO was mixed in the meals of mild Covid patients who participated in their study, it help to significantly reduce the reported signs and symptoms of the virus, with the symptoms gone by the 18th day.

On the other hand, Lazarte said the results of her study showed insignificant difference in the clinical recovery time of mild Covid patients who were given 600 milligrams (mg) of lagundi formulation every day compared to the placebo group, or those not given lagundi.

A table Lazarte shared indicated that patients who were given “lagundi” had an average clinical recovery days of 8.62

while the placebo group’s average was 7.51.

Recovery from cough The lagundi group on average recovered from cough after six days, while the placebo group recovered after 5.4 days.

Clinical recovery from throat discomfort, meanwhile, was felt by the lagundi group after 3.8 days, and 4.1 days for the placebo group.

Both the patients in the lagundi and placebo groups did not progress to moderate or severe cases.

In the same forum, Dr. Alfonso R. Regala of the Department of Health (DOH) Health Promotion Bureau said that while booster shots for Covid are needed, there is still not enough data that the agency can use to prepare a recommendation for its administration.

“We know that from the flu virus that booster shots are needed. Right now, we are looking at evidence as to when we need to administer [the Covid booster shots] because the duration of protection of the vaccines is still not definite.

Once we get those data, we can make safe and effective recommendations on when boosters can be given to the population,” Regala said.

There has been growing clamor from health experts for the administration of booster shots, especially with vaccine makers Sinovac, Pfizer, and Moderna admitting that the protection of their jabs wanes after six months.

There is also a growing call for the government to allow the private sector to procure vaccines that they can use for booster shots.

Early screening is best bet against breast cancer

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he Depa r t ment of Health (DOH) has emph a si z ed t he i mpor tance of regular self-breast exam and the critical role of screening in the early detection and treatment of breast cancer among women.

A breast self-examination (BSE) is a method to detect any noticeable changes in one’s breast.

E a r l y d e t e c t io n o f a ny changes in the breast and seeking immediate consultation will increase one’s chances of successful treatment. “ We u rge wome n to do breast self-examination regularly and seek early consultation or teleconsultation with primary care physicians for further assessment. Early detection of breast cancer is tantamount to better treatment outcomes for our patients,” said Health Secretary Francisco T. Duque III. On October 2, the DOH led

the observance of the Breast C a ncer Aw a reness Mont h.

Citing the 2020 data from the Global Cancer Observatory (GCO), the DOH said that breast cancer leads in terms of incidence among cancer sites and it is the third leading cause of cancer deaths among Filipinos.

In response to this public health concern, the DOH established the Cancer Assistance Fund pursuant to Rule V Section 20 of the Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act 11215 or the National Integrated Cancer Control Act to financially support the Cancer and SupportivePalliative Medicines Access Program available in 26 access sites nationwide.

This year, despite the pandemic, more than 3,000 patients with breast cancer were given free cancer medicines under the Program.

Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco

Indigenous sports, games webinar on

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NTERNATIONAL and local experts in traditional sports will headline the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC)-backed 2021 Indigenous Sports and Games Webinar Series: Preserving and Promoting the Rich Cultural Heritage of our Ancestors starting on Thursday.

The four-part webinar series is in conjunction with the celebration of Indigenous Peoples’ Month which will bring together renowned resource speakers in the field.

Tourism Officer of Hungduan (Ifugao) Haydee Hermosora will open the series with a lecture forum on “Punnuk,” a post-harvest thanksgiving ritual practiced and performed by residents of Hungduan and later tagged as one of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 2015.

Professor Jo-Ann Gimenez Grecia of the Department of Professional Education at University of East Manila will talk about “Teaching Philippine Games: Perspective from Non-Indigenous Physical Educator” on October 21.

Director Ferdausi Cerna of the Bureau Office of Education, Culture and Health of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples will explain “Cultural Sensitivity” on October 28.

Capping the series is Professor Pere Lavega, president of the European Association of Traditional Sports and Games, who will present “Traditional and Indigenous Games as Intangible Cultural Heritage” on November 5.

PSC Commissioner Charles Raymond Maxey, oversight for the Indigenous Peoples Games program, said that he expects meaningful insights from the resource speakers.

“We believe that these honored resource speakers will further encourage not just the Indigenous Peoples but all Filipinos to promote and showcase our traditional games,” Maxey said.

Some 1,000 participants are expected to attend all four sessions which will commence online at 1 p.m.

The webinar is held in collaboration with the NCIP and Pocari Sweat.

Sports

B8

| Thursday, October 7, 2021 mirror_sports@yahoo.com.ph Editor: Jun Lomibao

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THE Beermen rush from the bench after Marcio Lassiter sinks the game winner.

LASSITER SINKS WINNER FOR BEERMEN

Choco Mucho earns crack at finishing 5th in Thailand

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HOCO MUCHO beat Rebisco, 22-25, 25-17, 2519, 25-17, in a clash Wednesday of two national teams marked by a lot of fun and energy and foremost the needed international exposure.

“The game was really high energy. It was really a lot of fun to play,” said Choco Mucho main woman Kalei Mau who scored five points in every set to finish with 20 points in the qualification match of the 21st Asian Women’s Club Volleyball Championship Wednesday at Terminal 21 competition hall in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand.

“It was challenging playing against a younger team,” Mau added. “It was really great to be able to just find their tendencies and also work on ours and just work our creativity as a team.”

The victory was the first for Choco Mucho in the tournament and the wards of coach Arthur “Odjie” Mamon now has a chance to finish fifth if they beat Kazahkstan’s Zhetysu at 1:30 p.m. (Manila time) on Thursday.

The loss, on the other hand, sent Rebisco to seventh place in the championship that was the first international exposure of the national teams since the 2019 Southeast Asian Games.

It was also a historic showdown as two national teams played each other in an Asian Volleyball Confederation and International Volleyball Federation competition, according to Philippine National Volleyball Federation president Ramon “Tats” Suzara.

MJ Phillips played her best game in the tournament with 13 points, including seven in the fourth set when Choco Mucho was in control, while Mylene Paat and Dell Palomata added 11 and 10 points, respectively.

Ria Meneses produced four of Choco Mucho’s nine blocks, while Palomata was also solid in defending

Frank, 2 other Filipinos vying in Finland tilt

BusinessMirror

KALEI MAU is all set for the kill. the net with three blocks.

“Obviously we are still trying to build up and it was a great game by both sides,” said the outside hitter Mau who switched federations middle of this year to be able to join the Philippine national team program that is supported by the Philippine Sports Commission, Rebisco, Taguig Rep. Alan Peter Cayetano and Asics.

For Rebisco’s players, they lost nothing but gained everything in terms of exposure with some of them accomplishing their senior debut.

“We got to play with our veteran ates [elder sisters]. It was really a very good experience for us younger girls and we have learned a lot,” said Faith Nisperos, who led Rebisco with 12 kills. “This experience has been a very good step for us, especially us college students.”

Dindin Santiago-Manabat chipped in 11 points, while Mhicaela Belen, who at 19 is the youngest in the national squad, made 10 points.

Mamon admitted the victory was bittersweet.

“Honestly, I didn’t want to beat Rebisco, I really wanted the younger players to have more experience in this tournament, to get more exposure,” Mamon said. “But props to Mylene [Paat] and MJ [Phillips], they did a really good job today. Deanna [Wong] also controlled the pace of our offence today.”

Choco Mucho will be out to avenge its 22-25, 19-25, 15-25 loss to Zhetysu in the preliminaries.

By Josef Ramos

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ARCIO LASSITER was again at the right place at the right time and doing good this time as San Miguel Beer escaped with a 98-96 win over

TNT Tropang Giga to even their best-of-seven semifinals series at 1-1 in the Philippine Basketball Association Philippine Cup at the Don Honorio Ventura State University gym in Bacolor, Pampanga.

Three days after missing a potential game-winning floater in Game One that led to TNT’s 89-88 win, Lassiter made sure he won’t miss this time around.

Lassiter picked up Arwind Santos’s missed tip in and then the winning from under the basket, beating the game clock by a hair.

“That’s what we call a sense of urgency,” San Miguel Beer coach Leo Austria said when asked to describe Lassiter’s winning shot.

“It’s also because of his experience and we’re lucky, he converted at the right time.”

“June Mar [Fajardo] was the first option and Terrence [Romeo] was our second,” Austria added.

Six-time Most Valuable Player Fajardo, who posted 22 points on 7-of-12 shooting and grabbed 10 rebounds, muffed a semi-hook shot and Santos tried to tip the ball in but nmissed.

The ball simply fell to Lassiter who immediately made the gamewinning put back.

“This is the true character of SMB. We stayed together,” Romeo said. “We didn’t give up.”

San Miguel Beer rallied from a 61-80 deficit late in the third period with Romeo pouring in 15 of his

game-high 26 points in the fourth quarter. He also had four assists.

After Romeo’s basket narrowed the gap to 92-93 with 1:23 left, Roger Pogoy was called for a foul with 23 seconds remaining, sending Lassiter to the foul line and made two shots that gave the lead to the Beermen.

But Troy Rosario drilled in a three-pointer in the last six seconds to forge a 96-all count and forced Austria to call a timeout and draw the gameclinching play.

“We’re down but we kept on fighting,” Austria said. “To tell you honestly, this is pure heart.”

Alex Cabagnot had 14 points and Santos finished with 11 points for the Beermen.

Pogoy led TNT with 21 points and six rebounds, while JP Erram added 20 points and 10 rebounds.

TNT’s super rookie Mikey Williams struggled on the floor with a 5-of-16 shooting and finished with 12 points on top of five rebounds and seven assists.

Despite playing without veteran big man Kelly Williams (health and safety protocols), the Tropang Giga took control in early in the game.

But San Miguel Beer outscored TNT, 31-14, when it mattered most in the fourth quarter. The Beermen also beat the Tropang Giga off the bench, 42-26.

Game Three is set at 6 p.m. on Friday.

Animam hoping to play in Asian Games

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ACK DANIELLE ANIMAM is strutting her wares in Serbia where she gets to polish her skills the Euro basketball way.

But the 6-foot-5 Filipino-Nigerian has one fervent dream—to play in the Hangzhou 19th Asian Games in China next year.

“I never played in the Asian Games, as in never. We were not sent the last time to Jakarta [2018] although there’s an opportunity, so we’re hoping we’ll be sent in 2022,” the 22-year-old Animam told BusinessMirror from Serbia where she’s been based for the last two months.

The Philippines last fielded a women’s basketball team in the Asian Games in the 1998 Bangkok edition primarily because as a team sport that hardly created a dent in the Southeast Asian Games, sports leaders then felt it was costly to send one.

“So I’m praying this time we will be sent there,” said Animam, who led the country to its first women’s basketball gold medal in the Philippines 2019 SEA Games.

That SEA Games gold medal could very well be the women’s team’s ticket to Hangzhou which is hosting the Games from September 10 to 25, 2022.

But first up for Animam and her teammates are the 31st SEA Games which Vietnam finally agreed to host in May 2022.

“I am very excited to play in the next SEA Games. I hope it will push through,” said the Malolos (Bulacan)-born player. “They said our gold medal in 2019 was a fluke because we were the hosts then.

So it’s about time to prove to that it isn’t a fluke.”

Animam averaged 11.5 points and 11.5 rebounds for the Philippines that went unbeaten in the 2019 SEA Games. But the Asian Games are far more superior in terms of height, size and skills of the participants.

In the meantime, Animam is making sure that as the first Filipino to play in the Women’s Basketball League of Serbia with the Radnicki KG, she would be doing her best to take the role of a key athlete and ambassador in the European setting.

“Playing and learning the European basketball style of play is a big exposure and a huge help to my development,” she said. “I have been to Asia and America and this is a new learning for me.”

Animam previously played in Taiwan for half a year in 2020 with Shih Hsin University

in the University Basketball Association. Before that, she led National University to five titles in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines, in the process hoisting the Most Valuable Player trophy.

She also had a stint with Zone 6 Celtics in the Atlanta Entertainment Basketball League in the US last June before moving to Serbia.

Animam debuted with 20 points and 14 rebounds in the Serbian league, leading Radnicki KG to a 78-77 win over Proleter ZR last Saturday at the SBB Hala Jezero in Kragujevac, Serbia. Her team plays Crvena Zvezda on Saturday.

Josef Ramos

JACK DANIELLE ANIMAM is no push over in the Serbian league.

OFIA FRANK returns to the rink in the Finlandia Trophy starting on Thursday at the Espoo Metro Areena in Finland.

Also seeing action are the returning twotime Winter Olympian Michael Martinez and Christopher Caluza.

After failing to qualify to the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, the 18-year-old Frank told BusinessMirror that she would not stop competing to hone her skills.

“I don’t really get the option to choose what competitions I join,” the Colorado Springs-based Frank said. “They are mostly assigned to me by coaches to develop my skills.”

Frank finished 24th among 37 aspirants in the last Olympic qualifying tournament for figure skating at the Nebelhorn Trophy in Oberstdorf, Germany, last month.

“I have learned so much watching the skaters, and I think with the more experience I have competing internationally, the easier it will get,” she said. “I was under pressure and I think the nerves got to me a little but it was a great experience and opportunity.”

Martinez, who saw action in Sochi 2014 and Pyeongchang 2018, and the 31-year-old Caluza will compete on Thursday in the men’s program.

“I’m here to perform and show what I’ve got. I’m here to do my best and serve the Filipino community by representing them here,” Caluza, the 2019 Philippines Southeast Asian Games figure skating silver medalist, said.

Martinez, on the other hand, is coming off knee and back injuries and had to skip the Olympic qualifying tournament in Germany.

A total of 26 male and 29 female skaters are seeing action in the Finland tournament that offer world ranking points.

The men’s short program commences on Thurday at 10:30 p.m. (Manila time), while the free skate is set at 9 p.m. on Friday. On Saturday, the short program starts at 9 p.m. for women while the free skate is on Sunday at 9:35 p.m.

The tournament is also a qualifier for the Four Continents set from January 18 to 23 in Estonia and the International Skating Union World Championships from March 21 to 27 in Montpellier, France. Josef Ramos

Hipolito captures bronze in Jeddah

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EANETH HIPOLITO of Zamboanga City settled for a bronze medal in the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) Under-17 World Championships on Wednesday in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

In the result provided by Tokyo Olympics gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz’s cousin-coach Allen Diaz, the 14-year-old Hipolito placed third in snatch of the women’s 40-kilogram class with a lift of 51 kgs. She lifted 62 kgs in the clean and jerk for a total of 114 kgs and a fifth-place finish.

Turkey’s Ezgi Kilic, claimed all the gold medals with 55 kgs in snatch, 70 kgs in clean and 125 kgs total. Colombia’s Lawrence Velez got the silver (snatch 53 kgs and total lift 118 kgs) and so did Mexico’s Colli Canto (clean and jerk 66 kgs), but settled for bronze in with a 118-kg total lift.

A total of 326 athletes from 45 countries participated in the tournament.

Adrian Cristobal (men’s 61 kgs B), Albert Ian Delos Santos (men’s 61 kgs B), Rosejean Ramos (women’s 45 kgs A), Christian Rodriguez (men’s 67 kgs B) and Lovely Inan (women’s 49 kgs A) are also seeing action in the competition. Josef Ramos