BusinessMirror September 13, 2021

DEBT PAYMENTS SOAR

w

n

Monday, September 13, 2021 Vol. 16 No. 334

P25.00 nationwide | 2 sections 20 pages |

TO P834.3B AT END-JULY VIETNAM RICE SUPPLY WOES MAY IMPACT PHL

By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz

@joveemarie

T

THE first train set for the Metro Rail Transit Line 7 (MRT-7) was installed at the weekend, and San Miguel Corp. said it is now working “round the clock” to meet its timeline for a test run by 2022. The threecar train set from South Korea was put along the tracks of the MRT-7's Tandang Sora station in Commonwealth Avenue, Quezon City. ROY DOMINGO

T

By Bernadette D. Nicolas

@BNicolasBM

HE national government’s debt payments as of endJuly reached P834.33 billion, rising by over a third compared to the same period in 2020.

As amortization payments continued to outpace interest payments, the government’s debt service bill during the seven-month period ended up 37.2 percent higher than last year’s P608.26 billion.

Cumulative amortization payments from January to July this year ballooned to P566.77 billion, surging by 56.9 percent from P361.2 billion last year.

See “Debt,” A2

PESO EXCHANGE RATES n US 50.0500

HE chairman of the House Com m it tee on Way s and Means has warned against possible rice price increases over the coming months as Vietnam, the country’s main source of imported rice, suffers rice supply pressures.

With this, House Committee on Ways and Means Chairman Joey Sarte Salceda recommended that the mechanization component of the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) under the rice tariffication program be rolled out faster to improve farm yields and reduce wastage.

According to Salceda, Vietnamese farmers shift to more high-value varieties of rice while accepting a decline in export volumes.

“The implications of these developments in Vietnam are certain. If we don’t do anything

with domestic supply and source diversification, we could see higher rice price inflation,” said the lawmaker in a statement.

Citing the Vietnam Food Association (VFA), Salceda said Vietnam’s rice exports in the first seven months only reached about 3.5 million tonnes, down 12.7 percent over the same period in 2020.

“We should never depend on Vietnam’s rice exports for our supply in the first place. Vietnam is a society that is becoming more affluent. The result of higher purchasing power is greater food consumption. That means fewer volumes available for export,” Salceda said.

Salceda noted that Vietnam’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) also showed rice prices rising in the first seven months of 2021, although with limited supplies due to the ongoing health crisis.

Continued on A2

Global recovery seen to spur FDI flows into PHL

By Bianca Cuaresma

@BcuaresmaBM

L

ONG -TER M investments made by foreign investors in the country are expected to rise in the coming months as economies and logistics normalize in other parts of the world, a local economist said.

In his note following the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) announcement of the Philippines’s foreign direct investment (FDI) numbers, Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) economist

“The worst for the FDI data and other major economic data could have been seen already at the height of the lockdowns.”—Ricafort

Michael Ricafort said the worst is likely over for the country’s FDI. “[The] pickup in FDIs in recent months may reflect some easing and normalization of supply chains and logistics locally and worldwide as economies further re-open, thereby allowing more FDIs to flow into the country,” Ricafort said.

“Thus, the worst for the FDI data and other major economic data could have been seen already at the height of the lockdowns,” he added.

FDIs are investments made by foreign players to the Philippines in the hopes of long-term return. Since

these are in the country for a longer term compared to their short-term counterpart, the foreign portfolio investments (FPIs), FDIs usually create jobs for Filipinos and have a multiplier effect on the economy.

1st-half flows: $4.3B

THE BSP reported on Friday that FDIs to the country hit $4.3 billion in the first semester of the year. This represents a 40.7-percent increase from the $3.1 billion net inflows in the same period in 2020.

Continued on A2

n JAPAN 0.4562 n UK 69.2742 n HK 6.4354 n CHINA 7.7525 n SINGAPORE 37.2756 n AUSTRALIA 36.8768 n EU 59.1891 n SAUDI ARABIA 13..3456

Source: BSP (September 10, 2021)

News A2 Monday, September 13, 2021

BusinessMirror

Batanes isolated, Pampanga towns flooded after 2 storms

T

By Rene Acosta

@reneacostaBM

HE province of Batanes remained largely isolated and some areas of Pampanga are still swamped in flood waters, the government said on Sunday, as it sustained the relief efforts in the aftermath of the twin typhoons that lashed Luzon and the Visayas, killing at least 17 people.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said that telecommunication signals in four of the six towns and municipalities of Batanes are still down. Floods in some areas of Pampanga, including the 17 villages of Macabebe, have not subsided yet as a result of the heavy rains brought

by Typhoon Kiko.

Landslides were also reported in some areas of La Union and in Apayao, still due to the typhoon which pummeled Northern and Central Luzon, affecting at least 2,780 families or 11,145 individuals while forcing the preemptive evacuation of 1,742 families or 5,112 persons.

The NDRRMC said that while Kiko spawned flooding and landslides, minimal damage was initially reported, in contrast with Typhoon Jolina which has killed

17 people, although most of the casualties are still being verified.

At least 24 others have also been reported injured and seven others are still missing.

Jolina affected mostly Central Luzon, Southern Tagalog and Bicol region and Regions 6, 7 and 8 where severe flooding occurred in Laguna and in Leyte, Samar and Antique.

As of Sunday, the NDRRMC said Jolina has damaged at least P628,041,674 in the area of agriculture while another P57, 261,053 in the area of infrastructure. At least 8,924 houses were also damaged, most of them in Region 8.

At least 81,048 families or 313,373 individuals were affected while another 3,367 families or 13, 061 persons were preemptively evacuated.

LGUs may use QRF for Covid response till Sept ‘22

By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla

L

OCAL government units (LGU) will now be able to use their Quick Response Funds for their Covid-19 response until next year.

This after President Duterte is-

sued Proclamation No. 1218 late Friday, which extended the period of the State of Calamity nationwide due to Covid-19 from September 13, 2021 to September 12, 2022.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) welcomed the development, which will

allow LGUs to continue to access much needed funds for their evergrowing Covid-related expenses.

“This will benefit most especially the LGUs because they can use their calamity funds to respond to the continuing national emergency,” Interior spokesperson Jonathan Malaya

told BusinessMirror in an SMS. Aside from the access of calamity funds, Proclamation 1218 will also allow concerned government offices to monitor and control the prices of basic necessities and prime commodities during its effectiveness.

In Proclamation No. 1218, Duterte enjoined government agencies and LGUs “to undertake critical, urgent, and appropriate disaster response aid and measures in a timely manner and curtail and eliminate threat of Covid-19.”

He also instructed the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to extend aid to relevant government offices to ensure peace and order during the pandemic.

Despite the government’s ongoing mass vaccination efforts, quarantine measures are still expected to persist until next year as Covid-19 cases continue to rise.

As of Friday, only 16.1 million of the country’s over 100 million population are fully vaccinated against Covid-19.

In its latest monitoring report, the Department of Health (DOH) registered 21,411 new Covid-19 cases on Sunday. This brings the total number of Covid-19 cases detected in the country to over 2.2 million.

Debt . . .

Continued from A1

Likewise, interest payments rose by 8.3 percent year-on-year to P267.56 billion from P247.06 billion.

Amortization refers to the repayment of loan principal over time, while interest payment refers to a payment determined by the interest rate of an account.

For July alone, state debt payments slightly fell to P60.54 billion this year from P60.91 in the same month in 2020.

Amortization payments in July slid by 1.05 percent to 1.51 billion from P1.53 billion last year.

On the other hand, interest payments went down to P59.03 billion from P59.38 billion.

This year, the government has programmed P1.29 trillion for its debt service, with P758.32 billion allotted for principal amortization and P531.55 billion in interest payments.

In 2020, the government spent P962.47 billion to service its debts as it needed to keep up with more financial obligations to fund its war chest against the Covid-19 pandemic.

As of end-July this year, the national government’s outstanding debt has already piled up to a new record high of P11.61 trillion, swelling by 26.7 percent from P9.16 trillion a year ago.

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Comelec plans to host ‘e-rallies’ for free for bets on its platforms

By Samuel P. Medenilla

@sam_medenilla

T

HE Commission on Elections is now eyeing to hold “e-rallies” as an alternative to physical sorties of national candidates for the 2022 National and Local polls.

This is among the provisions of the proposed “new normal manual,” which was presented by the poll body before Congress last week.

Comelec Planning Department director Esmeralda T. Amora said among the provisions of the manual is for the Comelec Education and Information Department to hold free live streaming of “erallies” for presidential, vicepresidential, and senatorial candidates as well as party-list organizations.

She noted the e-rallies will be held every night starting Feb. 6, 2022 at the official social media channels of Comelec.

Each night, the said channel will feature the following: three presidential and three vice presidential 10-minute slots; five senatorial 3-minute slots; and 10 party-list 3 minute-slots.

“During each livestream, the candidate will be allowed to see live comments to his livestream. The candidate may

or may not respond to live comments, Amora said.

The e-rallies must contain the disclosure that it is a political meeting, is compliant with minimum health protocols, and provide relevant date, time and location information.

No more than two candidates must be physically present in the same location at the time of the livestream.

“Candidates may receive inplatforms gifts and game currency, but shall not be allowed to give gifts to livestream audiences, nor to run promotions and campaigns that will awardin-platform or game currency to platform users and livestream audiences,” Amora said.

She said gifts and gamecurrency received by the said candidates in event need not be reported in their Statement of Contribution and Expenditures (SOCE).

The recording of the e-rally must be submitted to the Comelec Education and Information Department within 72 hours after its airing.

Comelec is expected to hold the televised raffling of the said slots for interested parties on Jan. 8, 2022.

The poll body said the provisions of the manual, including that of e-rallies, are still being finalized.

VIETNAM RICE SUPPLY WOES MAY IMPACT PHL Continued from A1

“Part of what keeps inflation tame despite higher meat and transport prices is because rice inflation is actually negative in some cases.

Average rice prices in August declined by 0.4 percent year-on-year.

Imagine what happens to inflation when that ticks up even just a bit.

The poor spend around 20 percent of their income on rice,” Salceda said.

Salceda said the government should fast-track the RCEF programs to respond to these developments.

“Last quarter, the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech) completed the implement at ion of t he mec h a n i z at ion component, which is 50 percent of RCEF, just for 2019 and 2020.

So, they were actually catching up on a backlog early this year,” Salceda said. “[Agriculture] Secretary [William] Dar is responding very proactively to the rice situation. With

faster implementation of RCEF, we are poised to see the largest harvest of rice next year. We are also diversifying our imports to include Pakistan and India. But we can definitely push harder,” he added.

Meanwhile, Salceda said he will continue to push for land consolidation with land condonation as a complementary policy to mechanization.

“Farm mechanization works best when you are dealing with big-enough tracts of land. It’s cost efficient that way. I filed House Bill No. 9955 which would increase the landholding limit to 24 hectares; promote investments in the agriculture sector by condoning the loans of agrarian reform beneficiaries [ARBs], which will allow more productive use of agrarian reform land to sale, lease, or joint venture with farmers; and open a low-interest loan facility to help farmers repurchase mortgaged agrarian reform land,” Salceda said.

Global recovery seen to spur FDI flows into PHL Continued from A1

The economist said the economic foundations of the country would still make the Philippines a good long-term investment stop for global players as they start investing again after the pandemic.

“The improved economic and credit fundamentals of the Philippines in recent years, amid attractive demographics, with the 12th largest population in the world at about 110 million, would make the Philippines a compelling investment destination,” the economist said.

However, he warned that despite having this, the rapid rise of Covid cases in the country may hold back investor plans towards the country.

“Offsetting risk factors are the relatively higher new Covid-19 local cases among record highs amid threats from new coronavirus variants [especially the Delta and Lambda variants] that are more contagious and could lead to risk of further lockdowns and travel restrictions, [and] thereby could slow down economic recovery prospects, including FDIs,” Ricafort said.

Nation BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Monday, September 13, 2021 A3

Banana farm tiff a DAR concern

A

By Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas

@jearcalas

GRARIAN Reform Secretary John R. Castriciones is asking agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) of the Davao-based Marsman Estate Plantation Inc. (MEPI) to resolve a long-standing issue with the banana exporter through continuous dialogue and negotiations.

Castr iciones sa id in a rad io inter v iew t hat t he President ia l Agrarian Reform Council (PARC) decided last September 1 to “uphold and continue” the leaseback agreement between MEPI and the majority ARBs under the Davao Marsman Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Multi-Purpose

cooperative (Damarb MPC).

“The important thing is that [the ARBs] continue to receive their benefits from a business organization [that] entered into an agreement with them originally,” he said. “[The council members] had a discussion and we talked about how

to resolve this motion. The first group, Damarb MPC—which is composed of more or less 700 farmers, and they are the majority—wants to set aside the first resolution [that] revoked the AVA [agribusiness venture arrangement] with MEPI. However, this other group opposed it and they are composed of

only a few ARBs,” he added.

Castriciones warned that if the minority ARBs still opt to separate and claim their lands [that] are scattered across the plantation; then it would affect the whole plantation, which is one of the major banana exporters of the country.

“If this minority will separate, the lands that they have are located in different areas, i.e., some in the middle, some on the sides, which are separate.

So, what happens is that if the land is given to them, there won’t be any value or meaning to the business and will affect the majority of the ARBs,” he said.

“The majority though voted that the first resolution should be set aside because it will affect the majority of the ARBs. Furthermore, the ARBs and MEPI already have a new agreement which basically says they will continue with their

agribusiness venture agreement (AVA).

The decision is not only favorable to MEPI but also to Damarb MPC [members]. The two [parties] want to continue with their AVA agreement,” he added.

Castriciones said the “will of the majority” will be followed and what the minority insists cannot be done “because the majority of the farmers will benefit as well as the corporation, which entered into this agreement with the beneficiaries.”

He added that even if the minority ARBs oppose the deal, they will continue to receive the same benefits that the majority beneficiaries are getting.

Last month, the Damarb MPC disclosed that it has decided to extend its lease agreement with banana exporter MEPI. “ T he f a r me r - me mb e r s h ave recognized the importance of having a

lease contract with a stable company, which has become more significant these days as they face the challenges brought about by the pandemic that is affecting not only the country but the entire world,” Damarb MPC Chairman Hernando Rivero said.

Rivero said 697 or about 92 percent of the 762 agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) of MEPI agreed to extend their respective contracts of lease while the other 164 ARBs chose to become independent banana growers.

“The other 164 ARBs who chose not to lease their lands to MEPI, like the members of Marsman Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Cooperative and later Marsman Individual Farming Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Cooperative opted to acquire the land through the ‘voluntary offer to sell’ scheme of DAR and to become independent growers,” he said.

Magat Dam remains intact—NIA official

By Jonathan L. Mayuga @jonlmayuga

A THE 39-year old Magat Dam located in Municipality of Ramon, Isabela.

N official of the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) said last Sunday the 39-year-old Magat Dam remains intact and that no major deformities or damages were observed in the past several days.

Acting Manager Carlo C. Ablan of the Magat River Integrated Irrigation System (Mariis) Dam and Reservoir Division pointed to the modern equipment in place in the Maris as a source of assurance.

Ablan cited they also installed new instruments such as Dam Deformation

Monitoring System serving as an online monitoring tool, which produces data points every 30 minutes for the covered structure.

He explained that any abnormalities on the structure will be tracked right away and be acted upon even before the dam breaks.

Moreover, Ablan said NIA ensured that it has an existing contingency plan for the Magat Dam located in the Municipality of Ramon, Isabela.

Ablan issued his statement after the Regional Committee on Dam Safety (RCODS) held a virtual meeting last September 1.

The meeting was attended by officials and representatives from the following: Cagayan Valley Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council; Department of Agriculture (DA) Region II; NIA-Region II; NIA-Mariis; Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa); Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region II; Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region II; National Housing Authority (NHA) Region II; Isabela State University; and, concerned Local Government Units (LGUs).

During the meeting, the revised “Protocol on Dam Discharge and Flood

Warning Operation for Magat Dam” was discussed by Acting Head Edwin J. Viernes of the Flood and Forecasting and Instrumentation Section of NIAMARIIS and a Technical Working Group under the Regional Committee on Dam Safety (RCODS) was directed to be created to review and finalize the project proposal on the “Ensemble Technique for Rainfall Runoff Forecasting.”

The Office of the Civil Defense (OCD) Region II and the RCODS approved the crafting of the contingency plan proposed by the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (PDRRMO) in case of a breach in the Magat Dam.

Economy BusinessMirror

Monday, September 13, 2021 A5

www.businessmirror.com.ph

EXCLUSIVE

No housing crisis, DHSUD chief says

By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario

T

HE housing sector is not experiencing a crisis despite the challenges of helping Filipinos attain their dreams of owning a home, according to the chief of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD).

DHSUD Secretary Eduardo D. Del Rosario told the BusinessMirror that amid financial constraints, the DHSUD has already accomplished 84 percent of its Philippine Development Plan (PDP) target this year.

In the first six months of the year, DHSUD and the Key Shelter Agencies (KSAs) were able to finance and produce 87,204 housing units out of the 124,322 PDP target. “ T he Housing Sector is not experiencing a crisis but there are challenges for us to adequately address the country’s housing need,” Del Rosario told the BusinessMirror.

“In fact, it remains vibrant despite the Covid-19 pandemic” Based on t he DHSUD d ata obtained by the BusinessMirror, a total of 456,850 housing units have been financed and completed by the government between 2019 and the first half of 2021. The target is 528,809 between 2019 and 2021.

Del Rosario said the total housing units financed and constructed reached 224,987 units in 2019. This is a 99.89-percent accomplishment rate.

In 2020, the DHSUD Chief said a total of 144,659 housing units were financed representing 80.72 percent of the 179,215 unit target. DHSUD earlier said lockdowns affected construction of government housing projects last year.

He added that the latest report from the Home Development Mutual Fund (Pag-IBIG Fund) showed it earned P16.1 billion during the first six months of 2021. This represented a 14 percent higher than the same period in 2020.

“We are also in close coordination with the private developers to continuously craft policies, rules and regulationstomaintainavibranthousing sector and we remain optimistic that together, we can hurdle the challenges,” Del Rosario told BusinessMirror.

“Housing is capital intensive and needs funding from the government, as well as the private sector for DHSUD to perform at the optimum level, especially in relocating ISFs [informal settler families] living in danger zones to safer grounds,” he added.

Del Rosario said closing the housing backlog is difficult since this means allocating a budget of P50 billion annually. But, he said, the housing sector only receives 10 percent or around P4 billion to P5 billion annually.

Apa r t f rom t he budget a r y constraints, efforts to increase housing production to around 15 percent became a real challenge during the pandemic.

Del Rosario said pre-pandemic, the government is able to increase housing production by 15 percent annually between 2016 and 2019.

This, Del Rosario said, is where the private sector’s help is much needed.

He said the concentration of housing development is in Metro Manila, Calabarzon, and Central Luzon as well as other urban centers nationwide such as Cebu, Davao, and Cagayan de Oro.

Nonetheless, Del Rosario said the private sector has been very active in these areas. However, he admitted that Metro Manila does not have enough land to build more housing units.

This is the reason for DHSUD’s efforts to encourage vertical housing projects in Metro Manila. The government, Del Rosario said, is also turning to the private sector in terms of land banking because they have more financial head room to spend on this.

“Maganda ang housing sector, masyadong active at masasabi natin na, despite the Covid-19 situation, marami tayong mga kababayan ngayon ang bumibili at nangangailangan ng pabahay [The housing sector is vibrant despite the Covid-19 situation. There are a lot of Filipinos who are buying and are in need of houses],” Del Rosario said.

“Siguro, nakita nila it’s better [to] buy housing units (than) just saving it [money] in their banks [Maybe they saw that it’s better to buy housing units than just parking money in banks],” he added.

During the pre-State of the Nation Address (SONA) briefing, Del Rosario said this target could even be exceeded given that the department has been able to assist 928,000 Filipinos to have their own home as of March.

Del Rosario said this represents 82 percent of the target. With housing construction continuing even after March 2021, he said more homes will be included in the list which could allow the DHSUD to exceed the PDP target of 1.1 million houses by 2022.

Del Rosario said overall, the DHSUD considered shelter or housing as a right.

But also recognize that not all Filipinos would like to be homeowners.

He noted that a recent survey showed that 81 percent of Filipinos would like to have a house of their own while 19 percent would prefer to rent.

Del Rosario said housing construction is an important ingredient in the country’s recovery from the pandemic.

He noted that building homes will not only meet the needs of Filipinos but also boost economic activity.

Housing construction, he said, is a pump primer of the economy. Del Rosario said housing construction has 80 allied sectors and “hundreds of thousands of the workforce” are involved in building homes.

The sector’s link to several industries as well as employing workers are crucial in the country’s recovery from the pandemic.

Buffets to make a ‘raging’ return, post-pandemic

By Ma. Stella F. Arnaldo @akosistellaBM

Special to the BusinessMirror

B

UFFETS will return.

That’s the prediction of hospitality industry veteran Bruce Winton, when asked at a recent webinar what changes in hotel operations will remain or expire as soon as the pandemic is over. “[The] buffet will come raging back, I can assure you this, especially in our market. I think you’ll see these managed buffets and modified buffets going away and the big Smorgasbord just coming back… a nd t h at ’s wh at t he con su mer really wants,” said Winton, MultiProperty Vice President for Marriott International Philippines.

He added, events will also return, but maybe on a smaller scale.

“It will be a long time before people want to gather with 2,000 other people potentially in an indoor food and beverage event or venue.”

What will remain will be the digital innovations undertaken by the hotels and “and some of the partnerships that have sprung up [with] third-party logistics companies (i.e., food deliveries) as there’s a lot of win-wins there.... But I do think the traditional hotel/resort experience will come back very similarly to what it did before, with just an escalated focus on health and safety.”

Winston spoke at the recent Hotel Outlook webinar hosted by property developer Santos Knight Frank and

the British Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines.

Remaining in touch with clients IN the same event, Megaworld Hotels Group Genera l Manager Cleofe Albiso said their hotels are ready to spring to action when less restrictive quarantine statuses are announced by the government.

“We have tried to survive given the programs that we keep on preparing that in case we are on GCQ (general community quarantine), this is what we’re going to implement. If the government allows us to operate our restaurants, and food outlets with 30-percent capacity, and then all these are just going to be prepared and switched on in case we have the go-signal to do it.”

Looking at a six- to 12-month time frame, she said, “We’re going to take it in paces…. We have tried to stay in touch with our clients—it is very pertinent now that we proactively inform our guests of…travel restrictions [and] travel requirements, or antigen testing. We have our social media platforms, to keep them informed.

And we also make sure that we remain flexible. There’s so much fluidity in the rebooking options, especially in the changing classifications of the quarantine.”

Malacañang recently announced it will put Metro Manila under GCQ starting September 16 and pilot-test a new four-level alert system for localized lockdowns.

WTTC forum rescheduled ALBISO also expressed confidence that the inclusion of Richmonde Hotel in Iloilo will help boost the palatability of their parent firm’s Real Estate Investment Trust (MREIT).

“The structure where the hotel is, is a mixed-use structure, where part of it is occupied by office spaces, leased by our BPOs (business process outsourcing offices), and half of it is our hotel facility, Although our contribution may not be major to the total aggregate leasable area that the MREIT is offering…this definitely will help boost of the Philippine economy, there will definitely be more projects in the future, and of course, that means jobs for the Filipinos.”

MREIT Inc. recently announced it trimmed the size and price of its initial public offering to just 844.3 million common shares at P16.10 each, from its initial plan of 1.1 billion shares at P22 per share. Megaworld had earlier touted the IPO to be the largest in Southeast Asia.

Meanwhile, Tourism Undersecretary Verna Esmeralda Buensuceso said the World Travel and Tourism Council general assembly to be hosted by the Philippines will likely be moved to the first quarter in 2022.

“We would like to make sure that international borders are a bit more easy to navigate so that we get to have more people coming in because we’re expecting about 650 delegates on ground and about 30,000 more who will be participating in the digital platform,” she said.

Agriculture/ Commodities BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Editor: Jennifer A. Ng • Monday, September 13, 2021

A7

Fish import service fee set at ₧500/ton

T

By Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas

@jearcalas

he government is requiring traders to pay a service fee of P500 for every metric ton (MT) of fish they will import under the government’s small pelagic fish importation program, based on the supplemental guidelines issued by the Department of Agriculture (DA).

This means that the government will earn as much as P30 million under the program, which allows eligible and accredited traders to bring in 60,000 MT of fish to beef up domestic supply.

The DA has also required importers to ship their allocated volume from the country of origin within 20 days after receiving the sanitary and phytosanitary import clearance (SPS-IC) for their shipments.

Agriculture Secretary William D. Dar issued Administrative Order (AO) 24 which outlined the supplemental guidelines for the small pelagic fish importation program he approved last month.

The additional rules, Dar said, were issued “to provide for a clear and efficient implementation” of the fish importation program, which allows the sale of imported fish in local wet markets.

The agriculture chief said the import volume would be auctioned off among registered traders.

“Qualified importers who are interested to participate in the auction shall pay [a] five hundred pesos (P500) service fee for every MT of volume awarded,” Dar said in AO 24 dated September 9.

“The imported small pelagic fish must be shippedout from the port of origin within 20 days from the receipt of SPS-ICs by the importer. As proof thereof, the importer shall submit a bill of lading to DA-BFAR [Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources].”

Dar has also ordered the resumption of registration

of fish importers for wet markets. However, they will only be allowed to register within five working days from the issuance of AO 24 or until September 15.

The newly registered fish importers will be qualified to participate in the program.

“Only importers compliant with the qualifications and requirements under FAO [Fisheries Administrative Order] 259 shall be registered,” he said.

AO 24 also indicated the small pelagic fish species that traders could import—round scads (galunggong), big-eye scads (matambaka/salay-salay), mackerels (alumahan/hasa-hasa/tangigue/tulingan), sardines (tamban/lapad/tunsoy/manamsi), round herrings (tulis/dilis bahura/tamban), and anchovies (dilis/ bulinaw).

AO 24 will remain in force until the arrival of the last shipment under the importation program.Earlier, the Fisheries and Aquaculture Board of the Philippines (FAB) urged the government to liberalize the fisheries industry and allow the entry of more imported fish products to help the Philippines achieve food security.

The group argued that the long-term solution to the country’s fish supply woes is to “open up” the fisheries sector.

Last month, Dar greenlighted the purchase of 60,000 MT of imported small pelagic fishes, such as galunggong, to augment the country’s supply prior to the closed fishing season.

PHL rice inventory falls to 3-year low

T

he rice inventory of the Philippines, the world’s sixth largest consumer of the staple, fell to its lowest level in nearly three years in August, based on the latest data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

Latest PSA data indicated that nationwide rice inventory as of August 1 declined by 11.6 percent to 1.587 million metric tons (MMT), 208,000 MT lower than the 1.786 MMT recorded last year.

“Likewise, rice stocks inventory declined by 27.5 percent compared with the previous month’s level of 2,177.68 thousand metric tons,” the PSA said in its report published recently. Historical PSA data showed that the total rice inventory as of August 1 was the lowest since the 1.168 MMT recorded in September 2018.

Figures from the PSA also indicated that the country’s rice stocks contracted for the fourth consecutive month in August.

The PSA said households accounted for bulk, or 47.6 percent, of the

Duterte. . .

continued from A12

Yang in turn was cited in contempt

by Blue Ribbon chairman Sen. Richard J. Gordon for repeatedly claiming his only link to Pharmally was his having introduced the start-up to four Chinese suppliers.

Duterte attacks senators

Also at the weekend, Senate Minority Leader Frank Drilon deplored Duterte’s penchant for diverting issues hounding his administration by attacking senators even as he keeps defending controversial parties called to account on the multibillion-peso “deficiencies” in pandemic fund use.

In a radio interview, Drilon aired

latest rice inventory while the commercial sector (warehouses, wholesalers and retailers) accounted for 41.1 percent. The remaining 11.3 percent was stored in National Food Authority (NFA) warehouses.

Rice inventory in households reached 751,070 MT while those in the commercial sector and NFA warehouses reached 648,400 MT and 178,840 MT, respectively, based on PSA data.

“Year-on-year, rice stocks in all sectors contracted compared with their respective levels in the previous year. Stocks in households, commercial warehouses/wholesalers/retailers, and in NFA depositories declined by 11.9 percent, 11.2 percent and 12.3 percent, respectively,” the PSA said.

The agency reported earlier that palay production in the January-toJune period reached 8.799 MMT, 413,000 MT higher than the 8.386 MMT recorded a year ago. Output during the period eclipsed the previous record of 8.713 MMT posted in 2018, historical PSA data analyzed

by the BusinessMirror showed.

In the same report, the PSA said the total corn inventory as of August 1 declined by 3.4 percent to 707,650 MT from last year’s 732,180 MT. “Similarly, corn stocks dropped by 23.4 percent from the previous month’s level of 924.25 thousand metric tons.”

The PSA said 84.7 percent, or about 599,530 MT, of the total corn inventory were held by commercial warehouses/wholesalers/retailers while households accounted for the remaining 15.3 percent or about 108,130 MT. “With reference to the previous year’s level, corn household stocks climbed by 12 percent. On the other hand, stocks in commercial warehouses/wholesalers/retailers dropped by 5.7 percent,” it said.

“In comparison with the previous month’s level, corn household stocks rose by 9.8 percent. However, stocks in commercial warehouses/wholesalers/retailers dropped by 27.4 percent.” Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas

disappointment that instead of chasing erring officials linked to “premeditated plunder or planning to raid government coffers,” the President would rather hurl “assorted intrigues and false allegations” against senators.

Alluding to Duterte’s raking up his alleged close ties to convicted pork barrel queen Janet Napoles, Drilon said, “no charges were lodged against me.”

On former Iloilo City Mayor Jed Mabilog, whom he admitted is a relative, Drilon asked, “has evidence ever been shown that we discussed drugs? General Garbo was a former regional director of Region 6, maybe for over a decade. What’s my relation to that?”

Duterte linked Drilon to the Iloilo airport controversy. “Who brokered the sale? That was bought via public bidding that was supervised by former Sec-

retary of Justice Raul Gonzalez, along with the Department of Finance and National Economic and Development Authority, Department of Budget and Management and Department of Trade and Industry,” Drilon added, partly in Filipino.

Way back in 2007, when he was not in the Senate, a public bidding was held “and the P1.2 billion project was awarded in accord with approved agency estimate,” said Drilon, noting that the Privatization Council was on top of the project.

The senator blasted attempts to link him to malls built in his home province. “The malls in our place— SM, Megaworld, those of Sen. Cynthia Villar. I’ve nothing to do with those. I have no investment there—not even one peso. It’s so dismaying that these are being hurled at us.”

A8

Monday, September 13, 2021

The World BusinessMirror

China sends health team to Fujian after 20 Covid infections reported

C

hina’s National Health Commission sent a special team to the city of Putian in eastern China’s Fujian province after Covid-19 cases were reported, according to broadcaster CGTN.

The nation recorded 20 new local cases yesterday, all from Fujian and including 19 in Putian, the commission said in a statement Sunday. The province also found 18 asymptomatic cases, 17 of which were in Putian, according to the statement.

The new outbreak comes less than a month after China quelled its most widespread resurgence of the coronavirus since the initial Wuhan outbreak.

Putian has identified a few local communities and villages as highand medium-risk, and is conducting nucleic acid tests on all 101,000 residents of the Fengting area, according to a statement on the city government’s website on Sunday.

Local authorities have also advised residents not to leave the city without good reason such as seeking medical treatment, according to the Xinhua News Agency.

Provincial and intercity shuttle buses operating from Putian have been suspended. Public facilities such as libraries and sport stadiums have also been closed as part of the measures to control the outbreak, according to CGTN.

Key developments: Bangladesh reopens schools

Students in Bangladesh returned to in-person classes on Sunday after a shutdown of more than a year.

Those in higher grades will have classes five days a week, while others will return once a week, according to Education Minister Dipu Moni.

“The government will shut the schools again if the coronavirus cases surge,” she said. “But there are little chances of Covid infections going up again.”

Bangladesh on Saturday recorded 1,327 new virus cases, the fewest daily count since May, taking the tally of infections to more than 1.52 million. The death toll climbed by 48, the lowest since June, to 26,880.

Mauritius plans booster shots in October

The tourism-dependent nation of Mauritius plans to roll out a booster-dose vaccination campaign from next month after taking into account recent studies and situation prevailing in other countries, Le Dimanche/L’Hebdo reported.

An additional dose is imperative for better efficiency and protection, the report said, citing Catherine Gaud, a senior advisor at the health ministry. Vaccines used in the Indian Ocean island so far are AstraZeneca’s Covishield, Sinopharm, Covaxin, Sputnik and Johnson & Johnson.

Spread of the coronavirus slows in Germany

The spread of the coronavirus

slowed in Germany on Sunday. The number of people newly infected rose by 7,345—some 3,108 cases less than a week ago. The death toll fell to eight on Sunday, compared with 21 a week ago. The country recorded in total 4,077,640 Covid-19 infections.

HK plans new vaccination campaign for elderly

Hong Kong plans to launch a door-to-door vaccination drive in a bid to increase inoculation rates among the territory’s elderly, according to the South China Morning Post.

Patrick Nip Tak-Kuen, Secretary for the Civil Service who oversees the vaccination drive, said on a radio program that government workers will go door-todoor to visit seniors and promote appointment-free vaccination days, according to the SCMP. He said that Hong Kong’s elderly are the group with the lowest vaccination rates.

Fewer than 30% of residents over 70 have gotten their first dose, while about 64% of Hong Kong’s eligible population have received them, according to the report. The vaccination program targets to inoculate at least 70% of the eligible population.

New Zealand, Australia get vaccines

New Zealand has secured half a million doses of the Pfizer vaccine from Denmark, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced Sunday. It’s the country’s second deal to boost local supplies, after buying 275,000 Pfizer shots from Spain last week.

So far enough doses have been administered to cover 42.3% of the population, according to Bloomberg’s vacc ine t rac ker.

News of the agreement came as New Zealand recorded another

20 local cases of Covid in the past 24 hours.

Separately, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the nation has secured 1 million doses of the Moderna vaccine from European Union countries. The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunization now recommends Moderna for everyone aged 12 years or older, according to a government press release.

The vaccine was approved for use in the country last month, where Pfizer and AstraZeneca shots are also available. So far, enough doses have been administered to cover 44% of the population.

Australia’s NSW to ease restrictions for vaccinated

Australia’s New South Wales recorded 1,262 new Covid cases over the past 24 hours, lowering the seven-day moving average for the first time in a week, according to Bloomberg calculations based on government data. From Monday, lockdown restrictions will ease somewhat for fully vaccinated people in most parts of the country’s largest state.

Victoria recorded 392 new local cases. Authorities are concerned about the spread of the virus in regional parts of the state, after some restrictions were eased on Friday. No new cases were recorded in Queensland.

Moscow cases jump as schools open

Moscow new daily Covid-19 infections jumped to the highest since Aug. 19 at 1,940 as schools opened in September and vacation season is over, according to the government’s virus response center. Moscow had daily infections record in June at 9,120, but the city administration handled t he wave w it hout loc kdow n.

Bloomberg News

Pope meets Hungary’s Orban at start of 4-day Europe trip

B

UDAPEST, Hungary—Pope Francis arrived in Hungary on Sunday on his first foreign trip since undergoing intestinal surgery in July, kicking off a four-day pilgrimage with an awkward meeting with Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who represents the type of populist, nationalist leader Francis frequently criticizes.

Orban, whose anti-migration policies clash with Francis’ call for refugee welcome, greeted the Argentine pope at the Museum of Fine Arts and the two went into a private meeting attended also by the Hungarian president and Vatican officials.

A photo of the encounter released

by Orban’s office showed the prime minister leaning into shake the hand of Francis, whose face wasn’t shown.

Francis is only spending seven hours in Budapest before moving Sunday afternoon onto a four-day tour of neighboring Slovakia. The lopsided itinerary suggested that Francis wanted to avoid giving Orban the political boost that comes with hosting a pope for a proper state visit ahead of elections next

spring.

Vatican and Hungarian officials have insisted Francis isn’t snubbing Hungary, noting that the Hungarian church and state only invited him to close out an international conference on the Eucharist on Sunday.

Organizers expect as many as 75,000 people at the Mass in Heroes’ Square, which went ahead with few coronavirus restrictions even as Hungary, like the rest of Europe, is battling infections fueled by the highly contagious Delta variant.

Despite pleas from the Hungarian Chamber of Doctors, congress organizers decided not to require Covid-19 vaccinations, tests, masks or social distancing for attendance.

Organizers, however, said they had ordered 30,000 masks to distribute as well as hand sanitizer, and urged all attending to be prudent, but few in the crowd wore masks.

During the flight from Rome, Francis seemed in good form two months after having 33 centimeters (13 inches) of his colon removed for what the Vatican said was a severe narrowing of his large intestine.

The 84-year-old pope stayed so long greeting journalists at the back of the plane that an aide had to tell him to get back to his seat because it was time to land.

Francis said he was happy to be resuming foreign trips again after the coronavirus lull and then his own post-operative recovery. “If I’m alive it’s because bad weeds never die,” he quipped about his health, quoting an Argentine dictum.

Orban has frequently depicted his government as a defender of Christian civilization in Europe and a bulwark against migration from Muslim-majority countries. Francis has expressed solidarity with migrants and refugees and criticized what he called “national populism” advanced by governments like Hungary’s. He has urged governments to welcome and integrate as many migrants as they can. After meeting with Orban, Francis presided over a joint encounter with his own bishops, and then Christian and Jewish leaders.

Hungary’s large Jewish population was devastated during the clos-

ing months of World War II, with more than 550,000 Jewish deaths.

The vast majority were deported within a two-month period in 1944 with the assistance of Hungary’s fascist Arrow Cross Party, and most were sent to the Auschwitz concentration camp in occupied Poland.

More Hungarians died in Auschwitz than any other nationality, and more Hungarian Jews perished in the Holocaust than from any country other than Poland and the Soviet Union.

Hungary’s government under Orban has been accused of trafficking in veiled antisemitic stereotypes, largely aimed at Hungarian-born American financier and philanthropist George Soros, whom the government frequently accuses of meddling in the country’s internal affairs.

Government leaders have often referenced a “network of globalist elites” covertly working to subvert its power. Last year, one government spokesman pointed to a “Soros cabal” aiming to influence Hungary’s politics through the funding of civic organizations. AP

Queen offers ‘thoughts and prayers’ on 9/11 anniversary

L

ONDON—Queen Elizabeth II marked the 20th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks by offering her sympathies to the victims, survivors and families affected by the atrocity.

In a message to US President Joe Biden, the British monarch remembered the “terrible attacks” on New York and Washington, D.C. “My thoughts and prayers—and those of my family and the entire nation—remain with the victims, survivors and families affected, as well as the first responders and rescue workers

called to duty,’’ she said.

“My visit to the site of the World Trade Center in 2010 is held fast in my memory. It reminds me that as we honor those from many nations, faiths and backgrounds who lost their lives, we also pay tribute to the resilience and determination of the communities who joined together to rebuild.’’

The ties between the two nations were marked with a special Changing of the Guard ceremony at Windsor Castle in which “The Star Spangled Banner” was played. Hundreds gath-

ered inside and outside the walls of the castle to watch.

The US national anthem had also been played at Buckingham Palace 20 years ago on Sept. 12, 2001, a mark of solidarity with the United States.

US Charge d’Affaires Philip Reeker thanked the queen for the gesture.

“Speaking for the United States, we have no closer ally and no closer friend, in good times and in bad times, and we are very much reminded of that today... through the enduring relationship between our two countries,” he said.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has also remembered the attacks, issuing a statement ahead of the anniversary saying that the terrorists had failed to “shake our belief in freedom and democracy.”

“They failed to drive our nations apart, or cause us to abandon our values, or to live in permanent fear.”

Sixty-seven British nationals were among the almost 3,000 people killed when hijacked planes crashed into New York’s World Trade Center, the Pentagon in Washington and a field in Pennsylvania. AP

Editor: Angel R. Calso

Biden embraces message of unity on 9/11 anniversary

President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden participate in a wreath ceremony on the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attacks at the Pentagon in Washington on Saturday, Sept. 11, 2021, standing at the National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial site, which commemorates the lives lost at the Pentagon and onboard American Airlines Flight 77. With the President, not shown, are Vice President Kamala Harris and her husband Douglas Emhoff, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Mark Milley and his wife Hollyanne Milley. AP Photo/Alex Brandon

N

EW YORK—From an urban memorial to a remote field to the heart of the nation’s military might, President Joe Biden on Saturday paid tribute at three hallowed places of grief and remembrance to honor the lives lost two decades ago in the 9/11 terror attacks.

The solemn day of commemoration offered frequent reminders for Americans of a time when they united in the face of unimaginable tragedy. That fading spirit of 9/11 was invoked most forcefully by the president at the time of the attacks, George W. Bush, who said, “That is the America I know,” in stark contrast to the bitterly divided nation Biden now leads.

Biden left the speech-making to others, paying his respects at the trio of sites in New York, Pennsylvania and outside Washington where four hijacked planes crashed on Sept. 11, 2001, killing nearly 3,000 people, shattering the nation’s sense of security and launching the country into two decades of warfare.

Biden wiped away a tear as he stood in silence at the site where the World Trade Center towers fell, and looked up at the haunting sound of a jet plane under clear blue skies reminiscent of that fateful day.

In a grassy field in Pennsylvania, Biden comforted family members gathered at a stone boulder near Shanksville that marked where passengers brought down a hijacked plane that had been headed for the nation’s capital. At the Pentagon, Biden and his wife, Jill, took a moment of silence before a wreath studded with white, purple and red flowers on display in front of the memorial benches that mark the victims of the attack at the military headquarters.

Delivering Bud Light and appreciation to the Shanksville Volunteer Fire Department, which responded to the crash of United Flight 93, Biden praised Bush’s comments in his only public remarks of the day, saying the Republican “made a really good speech today—genuinely,” and wondered aloud what those who died that day would think of today’s rancor.

Gesturing to a cross-shaped memorial made of steel from the twin towers adjacent to the firehouse, Biden ref lected: “I’m think ing what, what would the people who died, what would they be thinking. Would they think this makes sense for us to be doing this kind of thing where you ride down the street and someone has a sign saying ‘f- so-and-so?’”

It was a reference to an explicit sign attacking Biden last week in New Jersey as he toured storm damage that was displayed by supporters of former President Donald Trump.

Biden expressed incredulity at recent comments by Trump, whom he accused of abandoning the nation’s ideals during his time in office.

“Everyone says, ‘Biden, why do you keep insisting on trying to bring the country together?’’’ the president told reporters. “That’s the thing that’s going to affect our well-being more than anything else.”

In a frequent refrain of his presidency warning of the rise of autocracies, he added, “Are we going to, in the next four, five, six, ten years, demonstrate that democracies can work, or not?”

At ground zero in New York City, Biden stood side by side with former

Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton at the National September 11 Memorial as the names of the dead were read aloud by their loved ones. Each man wore a blue ribbon and held his hand over his heart as a procession marched a flag through the memorial before hundreds of people, some carrying photos of loved ones lost in the attacks.

Bush, delivering the keynote address in Shanksville, lamented that “so much of our politics have become a naked appeal to anger, fear and resentment.”

“On America’s day of trial and grief, I saw millions of people instinctively grab for a neighbor’s hand, and rally for the cause of one another,” Bush said. “That is the America I know.”

Alluding to domestic turmoil, including the Jan. 6 insurrection at the Capitol, Bush said that “the dangers to our country can come not only across borders but from violence that gathers within.” He added that while they have little cultural similarity to the 9/11 attackers, “they are children of the same foul spirit, and it is our continuing duty to confront them.”

Vice President Kamala Harris also spoke at the Flight 93 National Memorial, echoing the theme of unity as she praised the courage of those passengers and the resilience of Americans who came together in the days after the attacks.

“In a time of outright terror, we turned toward each other,” Harris said. “If we do the hard work of working together as Americans, if we remain united in purpose, we will be prepared for whatever comes next.”

Biden was a US senator when hijackers commandeered four planes and carried out the attacks. He was Obama’s vice president in 2011 when the country observed the 10th anniversary of the strikes. Saturday’s commemoration was his first as commander in chief.

It is now Biden who shoulders the responsibility borne by his predecessors to prevent another strike.

He must do that against fears of a rise in terrorism after the hasty US withdrawal from Afghanistan, where those who planned the Sept.

11 attacks were sheltered.

In remarks at the firehouse Biden defended the withdrawal, which culminated with a massive airlift to evacuate more than 110,000 Americans and allies—but still resulted in many being left behind for an uncertain future under Taliban rule.

“Could al-Qaida come back? Yeah.

But guess what, it’s already back other places,” Biden said. “What’s the strategy? Every place where alQaida is, we’re going to invade and have troops stay in? Cmon.”

Rather than deliver formal remarks, Biden released a taped address late Friday about the anniversary in which he spoke about the “true sense of national unity” that emerged after the attacks, seen in “ heroism everywhere—in places expected and unexpected.”

“To me that’s the central lesson of Sept. 11,” he said. “Unity is our greatest strength.”

Biden became the fourth president to console the nation on the anniversary of that dark day, one that has shaped many of the most consequential domestic and foreign policy decisions made by the chief executives over the past two decades. AP

BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph Republic of the Philippines

Monday, September 13, 2021

A9

Name and Address of Employer: LEMCON (PHILIPPINES) INC. Unit 41 Laguna Technopark SFB4,, Biñan City, Laguna

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

Name and Citizenship of Foreign National

Position and Job Description

Salary Range

Mr. PARTRAJ SINGH British

Project Director Coordinate the efforts of various workers in order to ensure that required task can be accomplished.

Php80,000.00+++/month

September 13, 2021

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

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

Name and Address of Employer: MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Binakayan-Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

1.

Name and Citizenship of Foreign National

Position and Job Description

Salary Range

Ms. TRAN NGUYEN PHUONG DUNG Vietnamese

Customer Service Representative Handle incoming calls of foreign nationals.

Php50,000.00+++/month

1.

Name and Address of Employer: TOSHIBA INFORMATION EQUIPMENT (PHILIPPINES), INC. SEPZ-CIP I, Canlubang, Calamba City, Laguna

1.

2.

3.

Mr. WENLONG SU Chinese

Mr. YUANXIN SU Chinese

Customer Service Representative Handle incoming calls of foreign nationals.

Customer Service Representative Handle incoming calls of foreign nationals.

Mr. WENJIAN LI Chinese

Customer Service Representative Handle incoming calls of foreign nationals.

5.

Mr. HANJIE SU Chinese

Customer Service Representative Handle incoming calls of foreign nationals.

Php50,000.00+++/month

Php50,000.00+++/month

Mr. ZHIHONG LI Chinese

Customer Service Representative Handle incoming calls of foreign nationals.

7.

Mr. CHENGFENG LIANG Chinese

Customer Service Representative Handle incoming calls of foreign nationals.

8.

Mr. DIQUAN ZHENG Chinese

Customer Service Representative Handle incoming calls of foreign nationals.

Php50,000.00+++/month

9.

Mr. SHAONAN XU Chinese

Customer Service Representative Handle incoming calls of foreign nationals.

Php50,000.00+++/month

10.

Mr. XINGCHONG ZHANG Chinese

Customer Service Representative Handle incoming calls of foreign nationals.

Php50,000.00+++/month

Php50,000.00+++/month

2.

3.

11.

Customer Service Representative Handle incoming calls of foreign nationals.

Php50,000.00+++/month

12.

Mr. TAO JIANG Chinese

Customer Service Representative Handle incoming calls of foreign nationals.

Php50,000.00+++/month

13.

Mr. QIN HUANG Chinese

Customer Service Representative Handle incoming calls of foreign nationals.

Php50,000.00+++/month

Mr. KUNJIAN ZHOU Chinese

Customer Service Representative Handle incoming calls of foreign nationals.

Php50,000.00+++/month

Mr. JINMIN ZHAO Chinese

Customer Service Representative Handle incoming calls of foreign nationals.

Php50,000.00+++/month

Ms. LAN YANG Chinese

Customer Service Representative Handle incoming calls of foreign nationals.

Php50,000.00+++/month

Name and Address of Employer: BO CHENG RUBBER PHILIPPINES INC. Lima Technology Center-SEZ, Malvar, Batangas Position and Job Description

Salary Range

Mr. HUAPING LAI Chinese

Product Structure Engineer Meeting with business management, planning and sales team to discuss product ideas

Php 27,000.00+++/month

1.

1.

Consultant Coordinate with production teams in developing projects solutions to ensure quality and cost-effectiveness.

Salary Range

Mr. ONE SIK GO Korean

Production Manager Direct and manage plant operations for production maintenance.

Php1,624,750.00+++/ annum

Mr. XILIN SONG Chinese

Position and Job Description Mandarin Customer Service Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries.

1.

Mr. SHUN-HSIEN YAO Taiwanese

Position and Job Description

Production Supervisor Maintain product acceptability as requested by the local market.

Php30,000.00+++/month

Name and Citizenship of Foreign National

Position and Job Description

Salary Range

Ms. SHANSHAN GUO Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative Field incoming help requests from end users from the People’s republic of China via both telephone and work orders in a courteous manner.

Php40,000.00+++/month

Mr. CHENG LUO Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative Field incoming help requests from end users from the People’s republic of China via both telephone and work orders in a courteous manner.

Php40,000.00+++/month

Mr. XIAOWEN WU Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative Field incoming help requests from end users from the People’s republic of China via both telephone and work orders in a courteous manner.

Php40,000.00+++/month

Name and Citizenship of Foreign National

Position and Job Description

Salary Range

Mr. TOMOFUMI MIZOGUCHI Japanese

Senior Manager for Parts Production Department Direct and control technical and production aspects of product manufacturing processes/procedures for Production Engineering - Stamping and Machine Shop.

Php1,985,000.00+++/ annum

Name and Citizenship of Foreign National

Position and Job Description

Salary Range

Mr. SNEHIL SAURABH Indian

Adviser, New Model and Gyoshu Group (1) Purchasing Department Recommend strategic programs in implementing business goals in line with the Global Honda direction.

Php496,824.00+++/annum

Name and Address of Employer: YOU-WE PHILIPPINES INC. L4 B4 Josefa Village Brgy. Sambat, Tanauan City, Batangas Name and Citizenship of Foreign National

Position and Job Description

Salary Range

Ms. YAO XIONG Chinese

Purchasing Manager Maintenance of office equipment

Php30,000.00+++/month

Salary Range

1.

Php20,000.00+++/month

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

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

Name and Address of Employer: YU CHENG PRECISION INDUSTRIAL CORP. Cabilang Baybay, Carmona, Cavite Name and Citizenship of Foreign National

Salary Range

Name and Address of Employer: HONDA PHILIPPINES, INC. FPIP, Tanauan City, Batangas

Name and Address of Employer: KYOEI KOGYO (PHILS.) CORP. Laguna Technopark, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. JUNYA SHIBATA Japanese

Position and Job Description

Name and Address of Employer: JAE PHILIPPINES, INC. SEPZ, GBP, Javalera, General Trias, Cavite

1.

Name and Citizenship of Foreign National

Name and Citizenship of Foreign Position and Job Description National

Name and Citizenship of Foreign National

Name and Address of Employer: SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. San Francisco (Halang), Biñan City, Laguna

Php50,000.00+++/month

Mr. YUHUI YU Chinese

1.

Php150,000.00+++/month

Name and Citizenship of Foreign National

1.

16.

Mr. TOSHIHARU TANJI Japanese

Assistant to the General Manager Assist the General Manager of the site in formulation of the policies and procedures to be followed and implemented in the Enterprise Manufacturing Department

Name and Address of Employer: BRICKHARTZ TECHNOLOGY INC. Lot 4044 Molino Blvd. Niog III, Bacoor, Cavite

Php50,000.00+++/month

6.

15.

Salary Range

Name and Address of Employer: LS PHIL. MFG., INC. CEZ, Rosario, Cavite

1.

14.

Position and Job Description

Php50,000.00+++/month

1.

4.

Name and Citizenship of Foreign National

Salary Range

Php50,000.00+++/month

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

A10 Monday, September 13, 2021 • Editor: Angel R. Calso

Opinion BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

editorial

US-China: Bad times

T

he world is in trouble not only because of the pandemic but because the two global superpowers are in deeper trouble.

When you hear someone talk about how great the US or China is, it usually comes down to one sentence.

“The US has the biggest economy and strongest military in the world.” “China has not invaded one of its neighbors and it raised 800 million people out of poverty.”

Both statements are true. But they should probably be filed under “Yesterday’s News.”

We want to think of China and the US as being opposites in politics, economics, social structure, and culture. That would make “choosing” between the two nations easier. In reality, both countries are both sides—not opposite—of the same coin.

In the Philippines, we concern ourselves with how to balance our relationship with the two giants, or try to answer the moving question of which relationship would be most advantageous. It is similar to what the eastern European countries are doing with Russia. There is no perfect solution to our dilemma.

However, both nations make their every move in their own selfinterest. Both the US and China are dependent on each other economically as much as they talk and throw dirt at the other. The leaders in both nations are interested only in holding their power for as long as possible.

There is little “moral” difference between the two. Those with political influence and government power in both countries become extraordinarily wealthy in comparison to the average citizen. Neither government tolerates dissent or opposition to government, which is allowed to go only so far, with punitive measures limited by what the people of each country will accept.

The US government is more transparent, although censorship and stopping public expression is more severe in China. But if you want to know and understand the real situation—particularly economic— in the US and China, all you need to do is listen to the propaganda and watch their actions.

“The Fed chief [Jerome Powell] devoted a long passage in the remarks to rebut the notion that inflation posed a longer-term structural problem to the economy.”

“The rate of inflation in the US rose again in July and drove the increase over the past year to a 30-year high.” “US producer prices surge to another record, up nine months in a row.” Last week, “One of President Joe Biden’s top economists told reporters at a White House briefing that grocery prices are normal if you exclude beef, pork, and poultry.” Apparently, prices for tree bark and insects are stable.

One reason is that the global supply chain is in chaos and here is where China comes in. For 2021, nearly 25 percent of all Chinese exports go to the US. Nearly 20 percent of all US imports come from China.

When the government mouthpiece—The Global Times—writes that “China’s economy shows slowing signs in July, but remains on steady recovery path,” all is not well.

“Container ship congestion at Los Angeles ports hits record high with average waiting times to unload at 8.5 days.” The shipping time from Shanghai to Los Angeles is 15 days significantly increasing goods costs. Those ships are not full of Thai “mineral fuels” or Philippine electronic products.

Business Insider: “A deployed US Navy aircraft carrier sailed into the South China Sea this week carrying F-35 stealth fighters in a first.” Global Times: “China has already developed a number of antistealth radar systems, so the F-35 can be detected.”

These are dangerous times far beyond Covid.

Since 2005

A call to kindness

F we are on social media, it would seem like our feed is always showing posts from contacts who are sick or grieving, announcements about deaths, calls for help and prayers. It can get overwhelming, so it’s no wonder some people have chosen to skip the social networks for the time being.

Being careful about the media or the news we consume is also a form of self-care. We are reminded to be wary of the negative things we read, watch or hear, and to avoid content that stresses us out. Spending time in silence or contemplation can refresh our minds and take us away from all the chaos. It’s nice to reserve a few minutes each day for silence and mindful breathing.

Although it’s there, we don’t need the statistics and research results to tell us what we already know: more people are going through periods of stress, depression and anxiety, and that the mental health of a big part of the world’s population is negatively affected by the global health crisis.

Those with a history of mental health issues and those who have comorbidity conditions are at greater risk, along with people who lost their jobs, lost loved ones, or those burdened by caregiving or financial responsibilities. Some people who

We are being called to communicate with compassion because, it may sound clichéd, we don’t know what the other person is going through.

And it may be hard at times, especially if we are going through a rough patch ourselves, but it’s worth a try to listen to others in a reflective, nonjudgmental way.

As far as our own well-being is concerned, psychological experts stress the importance of self-care, which basically means engaging in activities that we enjoy. Let’s make time for them every day, no matter how tight our schedules are. Some ex-

Atty. Jose Ferdinand M. Rojas II

RISING SUN

I

A hundred cities more!

BusinessMirror A broader look at today’s business

Thomas M. Orbos

STREET TALK

✝ Ambassador Antonio L. Cabangon Chua Founder Publisher Editor in Chief Associate Editor News Editor

T. Anthony C. Cabangon Lourdes M. Fernandez Jennifer A. Ng Vittorio V. Vitug

Senior Editors

Lorenzo M. Lomibao Jr., Gerard S. Ramos Lyn B. Resurreccion, Dennis D. Estopace Angel R. Calso

Online Editor

Ruben M. Cruz Jr.

Creative Director Chief Photographer Chairman of the Board President Advertising Sales Manager Group Circulation Manager

Eduardo A. Davad Nonilon G. Reyes D. Edgard A. Cabangon Benjamin V. Ramos Aldwin Maralit Tolosa Rolando M. Manangan

BusinessMirror is published daily by the Philippine Business Daily Mirror Publishing, Inc., with offices on the 3rd floor of Dominga Building III 2113 Chino Roces Avenue corner De La Rosa Street, Makati City, Philippines.

Tel. Nos. (Editorial) 817-9467; 813-0725. Fax line: 813-7025.

(Advertising Sales) 893-2019; 817-1351, 817-2807.

(Circulation) 893-1662; 814-0134 to 36. E-mail: news@businessmirror.com.ph.

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Printed by brown madonna Press, Inc.–Sun Valley Drive KM-15, South Superhighway, Parañaque, Metro Manila MEMBER OF

are isolating to keep themselves safe are also struggling with their mental health.

The situation requires us to extend more kindness and tolerance towards others. If we are able to offer our friends or family emotional support, uplifting words, and positivity during this time, that would be a noble deed. It would be helpful to extend patience and understanding to those who are falling short of our expectations.

A smile, though virtual, also goes a long way.

I

came across an article about the need for more cities in the Philippines, approximately a hundred cities more if we are to avoid the mess in urban planning that we now see happening in Metro Manila. This statement by the renowned architect, Manong Jun Palafox, is indeed true and should be taken to heart by our policy makers as well as those with money that are heavily invested in real estate. Manong Jun even alludes that the present infrastructure craze of this government will not serve its purpose if all roads will remain leading to Metro Manila.

The urban decay in Metro Manila is real. Just go around its cities—better on a bike to see the real ground, and one can see the wear and tear. Roads covered up many times over; streetlights missing here and there; mendicants and homeless people abound; and a lot of torn down edifices. We are, after all, more than 15 million in the metropolis, all busily moving and making a living in crowded spaces. This has been going on for several generations and several administrations. True, there are noble efforts by both government and the private sector to shore up a renewed metropolis, but a Metro Manila-centric Philippines will not help contribute to its sustainabil-

ity and will only bring it closer to its demise. The only way for Metro Manila to breathe and have life once more is to have other megapolises throughout the country that can double up as alternatives.

The pandemic in a way provided us with the natural push to move outward. City folks are now more and more looking for that life outside the city, given that infections outside are less than in Metro Manila. Countryside real estate values have in fact increased with city folks looking for beachfronts and farmlands, especially with most of us now on work from home mode. Thus, an accidental gentrification is taking place simultaneously in so many pocket areas

The pandemic in a way provided us with the natural push to move outward. City folks are now more and more looking for that life outside the city, given that infections outside are less than in Metro Manila. Countryside real estate values have in fact increased with city folks looking for beachfronts and farmlands, especially with most of us now on work from home mode. across our country. We do not really realize it immediately as most of us are all online, not knowing that the ones we are talking to are practically in a countryside haven somewhere. Looking forward to the post pandemic normal, it could be most likely that that people in those areas would not go back to the metropolis, especially if all the necessities they need are easily accessible in their new communities. And this is where government should come in now, to provide the needed lifestyle infrastructure for these local migrants. One good thing about this is that we have the important lessons learned from Metro Manila itself. I do agree with Manong Jun’s observation that workers in Metro Manila are like OFWs that need to travel from their bedroom communities usually an hour away from the central business districts where they work and where the

amples include journaling, watching a feel-good movie, gentle exercises like walking or yoga, talking to a good friend or relative, or mindful meditation.

Being careful about the media or the news we consume is also a form of self-care. We are reminded to be wary of the negative things we read, watch or hear, and to avoid content that stresses us out. Spending time in silence or contemplation can refresh our minds and take us away from all the chaos. It’s nice to reserve a few minutes each day for silence and mindful breathing.

There are organizations that offer Mindfulness and Meditation courses for companies or organizations. One example is Mindfulness Asia (mindfulnessasia.com), a company that is based in the Philippines. Online sessions for employees can be one of the health benefits that organizations can offer their workers during this challenging time.

Needless to say, those who continue to struggle with their mental health should seek professional intervention like psychological counseling or psychotherapy.

cost of living is more likely way above what they would earn. The new cities that should be built will need to have this primary consideration—work where you live; as well as other amenities that fulfill your other needs like schools for your kids, hospitals, markets, and other ground necessities.

Where will these metropolises most likely arise? All the present urban enclaves across the country are definitely going to be recipients of this local migration, with some preferred more than the others. One area that is reaping the benefits now is north of Manila, in particular Northern Luzon, starting from the Aerocity of San Miguel, the many developments in Clark, the rising communities in Tarlac and the preference of most folks for a quieter and tranquil life in Baguio City.

With such metropolises hopefully to be built and to be used by the next generation, there will be a real chance for Metro Manila to grow and glow back to its old glory. No doubt, Metro Manila will definitely remain as the central economic, political and social center of this country, but it will definitely have less strain on its shoulders. Then we will have the real chance to fix it up the way it should be. This I agree with Manong Jun Palafox a hundred percent—for a hundred cities more!

The author may be reached through: thomas_ orbos@sloan.mit.edu

Opinion BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

UN chief: World is at ‘pivotal moment’ and must avert crises

The poker-faced and the onion-skinned Siegfred Bueno Mison, Esq.

THE PATRIOT

By Edith M. Lederer | Associated Press

U

NITED NATIONS—UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres issued a dire warning that the world is moving in the wrong direction and faces “a pivotal moment” where continuing business as usual could lead to a breakdown of global order and a future of perpetual crisis. Changing course could signal a breakthrough to a greener and safer future, he said.

The UN chief said the world’s nations and people must reverse today’s dangerous trends and choose “the breakthrough scenario.”

The world is under “enormous stress” on almost every front, he said, and the Covid-19 pandemic was a wake-up call demonstrating the failure of nations to come together and take joint decisions to help all people in the face of a global lifethreatening emergency.

Guterres said this “paralysis” extends far beyond Covid-19 to the failures to tackle the climate crisis and “our suicidal war on nature and the collapse of biodiversity,” the “unchecked inequality” undermining the cohesion of societies, and technology’s advances “without guard rails to protect us from its unforeseen consequences.”

In other signs of a more chaotic and insecure world, he pointed to rising poverty, hunger and gender inequality after decades of decline, the extreme risk to human life and the planet from nuclear war and a climate breakdown, and the inequality, discrimination and injustice bringing people into the streets to protest “while conspiracy theories and lies fuel deep divisions within societies.”

In a horizon-scanning report presented to the General Assembly and at a press conference Friday, Guterres said his vision for the “breakthrough scenario” to a greener and safer world is driven by “the principle of working together, recognizing that we are bound to each other and that no community or country, however powerful, can solve its challenges alone.”

The report—“Our Common Agenda”—is a response to last year’s declaration by world leaders on the 75th anniversary of the United Nations and the request from the assembly’s 193 member nations for the UN chief to make recommendations to address the challenges for global governance.

In today’s world, Guterres said, “Global decision-making is fixed on immediate gain, ignoring the longterm consequences of decisions—or indecision.”

He said multilateral institutions have proven to be “too weak and fragmented for today’s global challenges and risks.”

What’s needed, Guterres said, is not new multilateral bureaucracies but more effective multilateral institutions including a United Nations “2.0” more relevant to the 21st century.

“And we need multilateralism with teeth,” he said.

In the report outlining his vision “to fix” the world, Guterres said immediate action is needed to protect the planet’s “most precious” assets from oceans to outer space, to ensure it is livable, and to deliver on the aspirations of people everywhere for

peace and good health.

He called for an immediate global vaccination plan implemented by an emergency task force, saying “investing $50 billion in vaccinations now could add an estimated $9 trillion to the global economy in the next four years.”

The report proposes that a global Summit of the Future take place in 2023 that would not only look at all these issues but also go beyond traditional security threats “to strengthen global governance of digital technology and outer space, and to manage future risks and crises,” he said.

It would also consider a New Agenda for Peace including measures to reduce strategic risks from nuclear weapons, cyber warfare and lethal autonomous weapons, which Guterres called one of humanity’s most destabilizing inventions.

The secretary-general said a new United Nations Futures Lab will publish regular reports “on megatrends and risks.”

He said the Covid-19 pandemic also exposed deficiencies in the global financial system.

To tackle these weaknesses and integrate the global financial system with other global priorities, Guterres proposed holding summits every two years of the 20 leading economies in the G-20, the UN’s Economic and Social Council, the heads of international financial institutions including the International Monetary Fund and World Bank, and the UN secretary-general.

He also called for the correction of “a major blind spot in how we measure progress and prosperity,” saying gross domestic product or GDP fails to account for “the incalculable social and environmental damage that may be caused by the pursuit of profit.”

“My report calls for new metrics that value the life and well-being of the many over short-term profit for the few,” Guterres said.

It also calls for a new Emergency Platform that would be triggered automatically in large-scale crises comprising governments, the UN system, international financial institutions, civil society, the private sector and others, he said.

Guterres also proposed “repurposing” the UN Trusteeship Council, whose work is largely completed, “to create an intergovernmental body for intergenerational issues” that would be a platform to consider the interests of the entire human family, present and future.

As part of a new focus on the world’s young people and future generations, Guterres said he intends to appoint a special envoy for future generations to ensure the interests of those born in the 21st century and establish a new United Nations Youth Office.

Monday, September 13, 2021 A11

F

ilipinos are known around the world for their hospitality, not for their arrogance. With a culture of pakikisama, we welcome guests with much respect, the way we are mindful of not embarrassing others. However, once they feel embarrassed, I have seen quite a few Filipinos, especially in this current government, who I thought was level-headed and sensible, react wildly irrational, bordering on ludicrous behavior!

Hypersensitive people are referred to as balat-sibuyas, which literally means “onion-skinned”. Just as onion skin easily comes off, Filipino people can be hurt at the slightest indication of criticism, although made with the best of intentions. Yet, some remain as cool as a cucumber as Dr. Maria Rosario Vergeire, Undersecretary of Health and spokesperson of the Department of Health (DOH).

Seeing and listening to her on a regular basis, sounding off the decibels of what we need to know about the pandemic, I consider her as competent, knowledgeable, and “poker-faced” amid the various public queries that can be annoying at times. Much as there is really no necessity for it, comparing Dr. Vergeire with Presidential spokesperson Secretary Harry Roque Jr., in their roles as spokespersons, cannot be helped.

Since the onset of this health crisis, Dr. Vergeire has been delivering vital information to her listeners— just facts and in detail, as best as she can. From the halls of the DOH, she speaks unequivocally on behalf of the agency, stripped of any side comments, needless facial expressions, and snide remarks! In one interview, when asked to comment on why OCTA research appears to be using a method in their forecasts and statistics that’s different from that of the DOH, the she simply answered yes, “they seem to be using a different method.” While the question can be construed as a loaded question, Dr. Vergeire responded with a simple statement of facts, bereft of any foul behavior. Perhaps, deep inside, she

was fuming with anger or irritation at least. But Dr. Vergeire remains composed, understanding her role as a public servant. As the number of new Covid-19 cases climbs up exponentially and as her immediate boss perennially goes under fire, the good doctor-spokesperson maintains her composure and continues to remind us to “observe the minimum health protocols.” We hear no repugnance or exhaustion or hatred as she calmly refuses to respond to tirades against her department. Her calm disposition hardly ever changes, similar to a “hard to decipher” and uninterpretable expression of any expert poker player.

In contrast, I know Secretary Harry Roque Jr. as a human rights lawyer and a good law professor.

His intellectual capacity can never be doubted. As Presidential spokesperson, Roque has delivered what is purportedly the official statement of the President on any public issue. Throughout the duration of this epidemic, Secretary Roque has comprehensively responded and will continue to intelligently respond to queries while relaying veritable information about national issues to the public. Sadly though, the good Secretary has gone overboard quite a few times already. Most recently, Roque was seen berating Dr. Maricar Limpin, president of the Philippine College of Physicians, in response to what appears as a plea from Dr. Limpin not to ease the community quarantine level. Being a health worker, Dr. Limpin merely gave her concerns about hospitals be-

ing overloaded with patients and health workers being overworked, underpaid, and unappreciated.

Roque’s response was vicious. In a condescending voice with his finger jabbing at the computer screen, Roque stated: “Are you saying that only medical front-liners are concerned about the health of the people? We all want to save lives. For crying out loud, no one in the government wants a single life lost. No one!” He also added: “How dare you think that we are not considering steps to prevent the loss of lives?” Incidentally, that was not the first occasion that Roque publicly berated and humiliated another. In anger, he has openly rebuked others in humiliating fashion! Uncalled for for any public servant, Roque’s behavior appears to be hypersensitive to the point of being onion-skinned, thinking highly of himself while demanding respect.

As a spokesperson or a representative of an organization, being pokerfaced like Dr. Vergeire is indispensable, especially since the speaker echoes the thoughts of the office they represent. The job of a spokesperson is to convey facts as information or official statements. Tell-tales, sidecomments, and offensive retorts hurt not only the speaker but also the organization itself. Being onion-skinned like Roque in numerous instances, who shows a penchant for shooting the messenger and ignoring the message, is not fit to be a spokesperson, especially for the highest office of the land. In one case decided more than a hundred years ago, more known by law students as the “onion-skinned doctrine”, the Supreme Court said: “Men in public life may suffer under a hostile and an unjust accusation,” but “the wound can be assuaged with the balm of a clear conscience.” “A public officer must not be too thin-skinned with reference to comment upon his official acts.”

Lest this writing be misconstrued as passing judgment on the two spokespeople as aforenamed, best to spell out that even ordinary Juans like me have sometimes succumbed to the same outburst reveal at home and in the office. In myriad occasions, I have let loose of my temper when an occasion calls for it to be restrained. Like onions, we can become

a layered problem—skins, peelings, and all, if we are not mindful of this default mode. After all, we can all be considered as spokespersons of the community we live in or the organization we work at or the family that we are a part of. In the spiritual realm, each one of us can actually be a spokesperson. Thus says the Bible in Jeremiah 15:19, “Therefore, this is what the LORD says: If you return, I will take you back; you will stand in my presence. And if you speak noble words, rather than worthless ones, you will be my spokesman. It is they who must return to you; you must not return to them.” For believers who are intentional about this role, we can successfully carry out this duty, either with a poker face or an onion skin.

With our conscious stance of being followers of Jesus Christ, we could be both! If we are to be poker-faced, let it be against deceitful words but if we are to be onion-skinned, let our emotions only be a fireworks’ display of joy as God’s mouthpiece, boldly declaring His genuine message and passing it on to others.

These days, hardly anybody in government likes being told they are wrong. As the government response to the health crisis remains wanting and poor decisions are expected especially when faced with novel situations like a pandemic, public officials ought to muster enough humility and courage to accept feedback and criticisms. There is no need to say, “for crying out loud” with pride; instead, they should stop being proud and take everything in stride! After all, the Supreme Court once said that being a property of the public, a public official is looked upon “to set the example how public officials should correctly conduct themselves even in the face of extreme provocation.”

A former infantry and intelligence officer in the Army, Siegfred Mison showcased his servant leadership philosophy in organizations such as the Integrated Bar of the Philippines, Malcolm Law Offices, Infogix Inc., University of the East, Bureau of Immigration, and Philippine Airlines. He is a graduate of West Point in New York, Ateneo Law School, and University of Southern California. A corporate lawyer by profession, he is an inspirational teacher and a Spirit-filled writer with a mission.

For questions and comments, please e-mail me at sbmison@gmail.com.

FBI releases newly declassified record on Sept. 11 attacks

By Eric Tucker Associated Press

W

ASHINGTON—The FBI late Saturday released a newly declassified document related to logistical support given to two of the Saudi hijackers in the run-up to the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. The document details contacts the hijackers had with Saudi associates in the US but does not provide proof that senior Saudi government officials were complicit in the plot.

Released on the 20th anniversary of the attacks, the document is the first investigative record to be disclosed since President Joe Biden ordered a declassification review of materials that for years have remained out of public view. The 16-page document is a summary of an FBI interview done in 2015 with a man who had frequent contact with Saudi nationals in the US who supported the first hijackers to arrive in the country before the attacks.

Biden last week ordered the Justice Department and other agencies to conduct a declassification review and release what documents they can over the next six months. He had encountered pressure from victims’ families, who have long sought the records as they pursue a lawsuit in New York alleging that Saudi government officials supported the hijackers.

The heavily redacted document was disclosed on Saturday night, hours after Biden attended September 11 memorial events in New York, Pennsylvania and northern Virginia. Victims’ relatives had earlier objected to Biden’s presence at ceremonial events as long as the documents remained classified.

The Saudi government has long denied any involvement in the attacks.

The Saudi Embassy in Washington supported the full declassification of all records as a way to “end the baseless allegations against the Kingdom once and for all.” The embassy said that any allegation that Saudi Arabia was complicit was “categorically false.”

The trove of documents are being released at a politically delicate time for the US and Saudi Arabia, two nations that have forged a strategic—if difficult—alliance, particularly on counterterrorism matters. The Biden administration in February released an intelligence assessment implicating Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in the 2018 killing of US-based journalist Jamal Khashoggi, but drew criticism from Democrats for avoiding a direct punishment of the crown prince himself.

Victims’ relatives cheered the document’s release as a significant step in their effort to connect the attacks to Saudi Arabia. Brett Eagleson, whose father, Bruce, was killed in the World Trade Center attack, said the release of the FBI material “accelerates our pursuit of truth and justice.”

Jim Kreindler, a lawyer for the victims’ relatives, said in a statement that “the findings and conclusions in this FBI investigation validate the arguments we have made in the litigation

regarding the Saudi government’s responsibility for the 9/11 attacks.

“This document, together with the public evidence gathered to date, provides a blueprint for how [al-Qaeda] operated inside the US with the active, knowing support of the Saudi government,” he said. That includes, he added, Saudi officials exchanging phone calls among themselves and alQaeda operatives and then having “accidental meetings” with the hijackers while providing them with assistance to get settled and find flight schools.

Regarding September 11, there has been speculation of official involvement since shortly after the attacks, when it was revealed that 15 of the 19 attackers were Saudis. Osama bin Laden, the leader of al-Qaeda at the time, was from a prominent family in the kingdom. The US investigated some Saudi diplomats and others with Saudi government ties who knew hijackers after they arrived in the US, according to documents that have already been declassified.

A vision of a more inclusive and resilient UN system with Taiwan in it T MAIL he 76th anniversary of the United Nations is arriving when the world is still faced with the threat of the Covid-19 pandemic. As highly-contagious variants of the virus continuously affect us, the world needs a more effective UN to help recover from the Covid-19.

The UN responds by declaring the theme for this year’s General Assembly, which is to be held in New York on September 14-30, 2021, as “Building resilience through hope—to recover from Covid-19, re-

build sustainability, respond to the needs of the planet, respect the rights of people, and revitalize the United Nations.” The realization of UN’s vision requires all of us at the table.

After almost a year of successfully containing the virus, Taiwan experienced a surge of confirmed cases in mid-May this year. Nonetheless, it has stabilized the situation with effective anti-pandemic responses, and emerged as a more reliable partner to work with in the global community on the fight against the Covid-19. Taiwan has

also dedicated itself to implementing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and join hands in pandemic response with likeminded countries, including the Philippines.

Despite Taiwan’s effective response against the pandemic and the important role it played in the global supply chain, the government and people of Taiwan continuously face difficulties when attempting to take part in the mechanisms, meetings and activities of the UN system. This situation erodes the United Nations

principle of universality.

Mu lti latera l col laboration requires bilateral cooperation.

As close neighbors and maritime nations, Taiwan and the Philippines are enduring partners which uphold the values of freedom, democracy, and the rule of law.

The continued threat posed by the pandemic calls for the spirit of “bayanihan” to bring everyone to the table. We sincerely hope for our Filipino brothers and sisters to voice their support for Taiwan’s participation in the UN system.

The people of Taiwan need the international community to support our aspirations and our right to fair treatment by the UN. At the very least, stop turning us away at the door.

Taiwan can do much to help build a more resilient UN system. Let Taiwan be Taiwan and it is the right time to bring Taiwan to the table.

Peiyung Hsu Representative Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines

A12 Monday, September 13, 2021

NTF-Elcac has ‘no control’ F over ₧28.1-B BDP budgets

‘REFERRAL HOSPITALS MUST GET DOH’S UNOBLIGATED FUNDS’

A

By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz

@joveemarie

MID calls from opposition lawmakers to defund the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-Elcac), the National Security Adviser has said the task force will be getting P28.1 billion next year for 1,406 barangays cleared of New People’s Army (NPA) threat and influence.

National Security Adviser and NTF-Elcac Vice Chairman Hermogenes Esperon Jr. assured lawmakers that the task force has no control over the budget of the Barangay Development Program (BDP).

Some solons had earlier de-

scribed the BDP funds as generals’ pork barrel.

Under the proposed 2022 national budget, the BDP, the flagship project of the Duterte administration, will get P28.1 billion or P11.66 billion higher than this year’s budget.

Esperon clarified that the funds were downloaded to different departments tasked to implement several projects that include farmto-market road, school buildings and livelihood projects.

“The NTF-Elcac does not, in any circumstances, control nor manipulate the funds appropriated for the BDP. Rather, the NTF-Elcac is responsible for harmonizing and coordinating the efforts both on the national and local level,” Esperon said in a statement.

Communities receiving the BDP are former strongholds of, or under the influence of the CPP-NPA-NDF fronts, and are now ripe for development interventions by the government.

For 2022, a total of 1,406 barangays cleared of insurgency and threats will be included in the BDP. Most of these barangays are located in Bicol, Eastern Visayas and Caraga.

Esperon said that the NTF-Elcac’s main role is not to control the funds but to continuously inspect and monitor the implementation of the projects in the barangays.

Each barangay-recipient shall receive a package of programs, activities and projects worth a total

of P20 million.

“I take this opportunity to clarify that in no manner has there been preferential treatment as to the identification of barangay recipients. To be specific, Mindanao has the most number of cleared barangays from 2016-2019,” Esperon said.

As of September 3, 2021, Esperon said about 99.3 percent of the BDP funds have already been released by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) directly to the respective provincial and city governments where the barangays are located.

“In the interest of accountability and transparency, measures of transparency are in place for the implementation of the BBP. Pursuant to its mandate, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) shall monitor and evaluate projects under the BDP. Officials from the head office of the NTF-Elcac will also continuously inspect and monitor the implementation of the projects. Finally, Regional Task Forces of NTF-Elcac which are all led by Cabinet members will conduct their own inspections,” he said.

ORMER Sen. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has asked the Department of Health (DOH) to use its reported P11.89 billion in unobligated funds for the needs of referral hospitals that are running low on manpower and medical supplies.

“Additional support funds must be infused immediately into referral hospitals to prevent them from being overwhelmed amid the surge in new Covid-19 cases,” Marcos said.

Recent DOH data showed that the Healthcare Utilization Rate (HCUR) in 14 out of the 32 Covid-19 referral hospitals has hit critical levels— meaning, the occupancy of intensive care unit beds, isolation wards, and the use of mechanical ventilators are already more than 85 percent.

“Now would be the right time to put these unobligated funds to good use. The DOH should act fast to avert the looming collapse of health care in these hospitals by providing them with additional funding to expand their bed capacity,” Marcos stressed.

The data showed HCUR at 100 percent for the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM), 99 percent for the Amai Pakpak Medical Center, 96 percent for the Region 1 Medical Center, 96 percent for the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC), and 96 percent for the National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI), the Lung Center of the Philippines (LCP), and the Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center.

An HCUR of 95 percent was reported for the UP-Philippine Gen-

eral Hospital (UP-PGH) and the Quirino Memorial Medical Center (QMMC), 92 percent for the Batangas Medical Center (BMC), and 91 percent for the Jose Lingad Memorial Regional Hospital and the Dr. Paulino Garcia Memorial Research and Medical Center.

Meanwhile, Cagayan Valley Medical Center in Region II and the Dr. Jose N. Rodriguez Memorial Hospital posted HCURs of 86 percent and 89 percent respectively.

Marcos also prodded DOH to consider realigning funds to governmentrun regional and district hospitals where Covid-19 cases are rising. He also urged DOH to stockpile coronavirus medicines Tocilizumab and Remdesivir to avoid supply issues.

“Aside from aiding our Covid-19 referral hospitals, DOH should also realign funds to our Regional and District Hospitals. Allowing them to increase bed capacity now will keep them a step ahead of the disease. The DOH should also consider having a national stockpile of Tocilizumab and Remdesivir since these get depleted fast and as a result, hospitals fall prey to price gouging from unscrupulous suppliers,” Marcos added.

DOH said earlier the country’s supply of Tocilizumab, a repurposed anti-arthritis drug, will only last for a few more days if no new suppliers are found.

The anti-viral drug Remdesivir, another medicine used to treat Covid-19 patients, is only expected to last until the end of the year.

Duterte pal Yang facing probers anew at Senate hearing on PPE

BusinessMirror screenshot from the livestreaming of the Blue Ribbon hearing on September 10 shows the timeline—presented by Sen. Panfilo Lacson—for the awarding of PPE contracts to Pharmally.

By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM

F

ORMER presidential adviser Michael Yang is expected to attend anew, virtually, the continuation on Monday morning of the Senate Blue Ribbon inquiry into controversies surrounding billions in pandemic fund management, notably P8 billion in contracts awarded to an under-capitalized firm tied to Yang.

Yang, along with Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corp. Director Lincoln Ong, was cited in contempt by senators after Friday’s 7-hour hearing, and ordered arrested by the Senate sergeant at arms. Yang, whom President Duterte called his friend, is currently in Davao City.

Ong was placed under Senate custody—albeit in his home as he is in isolation for Covid-19—for evasiveness in replying to Blue Ribbon members’ questions on how

Pharmally, though newly incorporated with paid-up capital of P625,000, was awarded contracts to supply personal protective equipment starting in April 2020. Ong skirted senators’ questions about how Pharmally obtained the money to finance its first deliveries of face masks and face shields, until the second Pharmally executive summoned, Huang Zhu Yen, admitted that funds were lent

by Yang.

See “Duterte,” A7

PRC: Funds ‘faithfully accounted’ for

T

HE Philippine Red Cross (PRC) on Sunday maintained that as “recipient” of some donations from agencies of the Philippine government, they have “faithfully accounted” for the use of such funds in compliance with the donor agencies’ liquidation and reportorial requirements.

“These government agencies, in turn, are subject to annual audit by the Commission on Audit,” the PRC said in a statement, issued a day after President Duterte threatened to scrutinize the financial records of the humanitarian organization, through the Commission on Audit

(COA), with respect to those funds coming from state agencies.

Duterte on Saturday stepped up his attacks against senators probing Covid fund mismanagement, and hurled a challenge to them: you scrutinize the Executive, I scrutinize you, singling out for attack Sen. Richard J. Gordon, Blue Ribbon committee head and concurrent PRC chairman.

To date, the PRC said that there has not been any adverse finding on any transaction whereby government funds were given to the PRC. “Reports of these donations may be obtained by the Office of the Presi-

dent directly from these government agencies, and audits on these government agencies, if any, may be secured from the Commission on Audit,” the PRC stressed.

Earlier, Duterte attacked Gordon for the PRC’s alleged failure to comply with its mandate of regularly submitting PRC’s financial reports to the Executive department.

Duterte demanded that the PRC submit its financial records so it could be scrutinized by state auditors.

However, the COA had earlier said auditing the Red Cross was not part of its mandate. Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco

Companies BusinessMirror

Editor: Jennifer A. Ng

Monday, September 13, 2021

B1

Meralco eyes power supply deals with PSALM, PEDC

T

By Lenie Lectura

@llectura

he Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) has lined up its power requirements—totaling 260megawatts (MW)—that are urgently needed to avert a supply shortage when the Malampaya facility undergoes a 20-day preventive maintenance shutdown next month.

Meralco is eyeing supply deals with state-owned Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corp. (PSALM) for 90MW, Masinloc Power Planters Co. Ltd. (MPPCL) for 120MW, and Panay Energy Development Corp. (PEDC) for 50MW. According to PSALM President Irene Joy Garcia, the 90MW will come from the Unified Leyte Geothermal Power Plant and Kalayaan Hydroelectric Power Plant.

“If ever the supply contract proceeds, PSALM will source Meralco’s requirement from Unified Leyte,” said the PSALM chief via SMS. While the 90MW peaking capacity to be contracted from PSALM will no longer have to undergo a competitive selection process (CSP), Meralco First Vice President and Head of Reg-

ulatory Management Jose Ronald Valles said, “The DOE [Department of Energy] rules still require us to get exemption from CSP. It’s more of a formality.”

The DOE earlier denied Meralco’s emergency procurement of up to 260MW, which is meant to address the potential shortage resulting from the Malampaya outage and continuing gas restriction, and ensure adequate power supply during the 2022 elections. The DOE suggested that Meralco source its requirements from PSALM. “We are hoping the DOE will act soonest,” Valles said, adding that the 90MW peaking requirement from PSALM is urgently needed “starting September 26.”

To fill up the 260MW capacity

requirement, Meralco will source from MPPCL and PEDC. “We are also asking for exemption from CSP for emergency PSA [power supply agreement] with MPPCL and PEDC,” added Valles.

Meralco’s power contracting strategy, according to the utility firm’s president Ray Espinosa, is to source about 90 percent of its supply requirements for the captive market via bilateral contracts through the CSP program and roughly 10 percent from the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM).

“And we’ve managed to provide ample supply within our franchise area but when total Luzon is short, then regardless of how well contracted we are, we are affected by the shortage. So, the entire Luzon must work together to help minimize the impact of shortages,” Espinosa said.

He added that the government should also be responsive to the dips in supply, especially during the hottest months. “If we contract capacity for one whole year just to address this dips that happen only in summer, it’s going to be very expensive for the customers because they’ll have to pay for one year’s cost to address only two months of summer.

So, we tend to go to the WESM to pick up that supply. But if WESM is not sufficient, if there is a supply shortage in the WESM, we should be able to and we should be allowed by DOE to contract emergency power

supply agreements.”

Meanwhile, Meralco power rates for this month will slightly go up by P0.1055 per kilowatt hour (kWh) to P9.1091 per kWh from last month’s P9.0036 per kWh due to higher generation charge.

This is equivalent to an increase of around P21 in the total bill of a typical residential customer consuming 200 kWh. Generation charge, which makes up about 55 percent of customers’ electricity bills, increased by P0.1117 per kWh to P5.0439 from last month’s P4.9322.

For its August supply, Meralco sourced 36.8 percent of its energy requirements from independent power producers, 53.2 percent from PSAs, and 10 percent from the WESM. Meralco also said it is extending its no-disconnection policy following the government’s announcement, which placed the National Capital Region, Bulacan, Cavite, Lucena City in Quezon and Rizal under modified enhanced community quarantine.

Meanwhile, PSALM announced that it has concluded with Meralco the negotiated sale of its property in Paco, Manila for P632,162,185.00.

Meralco’s bid offer was higher than the minimum officer price of P527,087,552.00 set by the PSALM Board.

Proceeds will be used to pay for the remaining stranded contract costs and stranded debts of the staterun firm.

‘Ease regulatory burden on shippers’

By Tyrone Jasper C. Piad @TyronePiad

T

he Philippines, along with the other Asean member states, should eliminate unnecessary licensing requirements for maritime freight transport firms to avoid limiting market entry, an intergovernmental group said.

The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), in a recent report, identified economic needs tests and submission of business plans as “excessive licensing requirements.”

“While regulations very often have legitimate policy objectives, they can impose an excessive burden on operators or limit market entry beyond what is strictly necessary to achieve those

policy objectives,” OECD said.

OECD said relevant agencies may conduct a review of the applicant’s business as part of the licensing process. For the Philippines, the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) requires freight companies to submit a feasibility study, the group noted.

By virtue of Presidential Decree 474, Marina is mandated to supervise, regulate and rationalize the organizational management, ownership and operations of all water transport utilities and other maritime enterprises.

But OECD said, “Marina has broad discretion to consider the impact of the proposed service of the local area and evaluates the ‘economic and beneficial effect’ to the part, province or region that the shipper proposes to serve.”

The agency may also “assess the financial capacity of the operator to:

provide and sustain a safe, adequate, efficient and economic service in accordance with the standards set by the government regulation,” it added.

In Indonesia, meanwhile, applicants are required to submit a business plan to secure a sea transportation business license. “... [The] economic-needs test involves the government authority judging who should enter the market—such as the Philippine authorities evaluating feasibility studies provided by applicants or Indonesian evaluations of business and shipping business plans—even though the authority may not have all the necessary information or skills to assess new entrants’ viability and reliability,” the report read.

“The authorities’ discretion and lack of objective criteria may result in discrimination and lead to the selec-

tion of new entrants that do not deliver the best value to consumers; for instance, business plans and feasibility studies are based on forecasts that may not materialize.”

The group noted that submission of such documents may increase the cost of entry, especially for smaller firms.

Should the countries maintain the economic-needs test, clear and transparent guidelines must be crafted, OECD said, in addition to limiting the discretionary authority. The requirements must identify the criteria needed for the economic-needs test, it added The OECD flagged the “excessive” requirements for water freight companies as these may interrupt the Asean’s logistics industry and supply chain. It stressed that maritime and inland water transportation are crucial for the movement of goods within the region.

STOCK-MARKET OUTLOOK Last week

Share prices closed higher last week, with the main index closing 30 points below the 7,000-point level, as investors shrugged off the indecisiveness of the government on the easing of quarantine restrictions in the National Capital Region (NCR) and nearby provinces.

The benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange index gained 73.38 points to close at 6,970.51 points.

The main index was up for most of the week as buying momentum was sustained after the government announced that it would implement granular lockdowns in the hope of avoiding the shutdown of an entire city or province.

Average daily trading for the week was thin at P4.75 billion. Foreign investors, who only made up 39 percent of the trade, were net sellers at P2.13 million.

All other subindices were up, with the exception of the Financials index which fell 2.95 points to close at 1,447.66 points.

The broader All Shares index gained 41.10 to close at 4,302.79, the Industrial index rose 85.35 to 10,223.31, the Holding Firms index climbed 65.17 to 7,040.06, the Property index was up 32.08 to 3,107.99, the Services index added 51.14 to 1,819.86 and the Mining and Oil index surged 319.72 to 9,805.94.

This week

Share prices may continue to rise this week as analysts said more investors are gradually decoupling their investment decisions from lockdown measures, especially in the NCR, which account for a chunk of the country’s GDP. Broker 2TradeAsia said the recent rally was consistent, despite the government’s indecisiveness to relax the modified enhanced community quarantine measures to general community quarantine.

“The climb to almost 7,000 points seems to ignore this. In our view, this is less of the market decoupling from lockdown measures, and more of investor psyche gearing up for more long-term aspirations,” it said, adding that many companies have already indicated their intent to increase their capital expenditures as election spending starts to kick in.

The re-test of the 7,000-point level of the main index is crucial in the succeeding sessions, it said.

Japhet Louis O. Tantiangco, senior research analyst at Philstocks Financials Inc., said social restriction measures to be implemented in the NCR after September 15 would determine the fate of the market this week.

“The government is aiming to test their new social restriction measures

with alert levels and granular lockdowns in the NCR starting September 16. If the new measures push through on the 16th and if on the implementation, the social restrictions in the NCR would be eased, then it may spur positive sentiment in the market.

Maintaining the tight measures in the NCR, however, is expected to lead to disappointment which could pull the local bourse down,” he said.

He said if the market further establishes its ground at 6,900 points for the main index this week, this would be seen as its new support while resistance is seen at 7,300. If the market goes below 6,900 however, it may test its 10-day exponential moving average of 6,878.44 as of September 10, which is currently acting as its immediate support.

Stock picks

Broker Regina Capital Development Corp. gave a hold recommendation on the stock of Macroasia Corp. as the challenging business environment for the travel sector continues to weaken profitability.

The firm’s in-flight catering unit has expanded into virtual kitchens as it scored major customers during the second quarter, and the management is expecting

added revenue contribution by the latter part of this year.

The company is also reviving its mining business this year.

“The management is taking on steps to help alleviate the pressure off the bottomline by focusing more on businesses that are less dependent on air travel. However, we don’t expect any turnaround in profitability in the near term. The in-flight and other catering and ground handling and aviation segments contribute more than 40 percent each to the topline over the past three years,” it said.

Macroasia shares closed Friday at P4.70 apiece.

Meanwhile, the broker maintained its buy recommendation on the stock of D.M. Wenceslao and Associates Inc. at a fair value price of P9 per share as it expects its net income to become stable despite zero land sales.

“DMW is ultimately an office space lessor. While we’re starting to see recovery in office demand, as noted by several property consultants in their second quarter market updates, overall office vacancy in Metro Manila is expected to rise by the end of the year.”

DMW shares closed last week at P6.50. VG Cabuag

ALC Group of Companies launches integrated website

T

he ALC Group of Companies founded by the late Ambassador Antonio L. Cabangon Chua launched its integrated website, www. alcgroup.com.ph, during a live streaming event on the ALC Group’s Official Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/ alcgc last August 30. The launch also celebrated Ambassador Cabangon Chua’s 87th Birth Anniversary.

The ALC Group of Companies, the mother company of BusinessMirror, is a conglomerate whose mission is “to provide the needs of Filipinos from the time of birth to the end of one’s life, through the establishment of companies in various industries that work in synergy and complement each other’s purpose.”It is currently being headed by its chairman, D. Edgard A. Cabangon, who isthe founder’s son.

Serving various industries

Aside from BusinessMirror, the ALC Group of Companies has several other media organizations that are geared to bring credible news, relevant information, and entertainment to their followers. These are Pilipino Mirror tabloid, Philippines Graphic newsmagazine, COOK Magazine, CNN Philippines, DWIZ882 AM, and 97.9 Home Radio FM. Under financial institutions, the ALC Group has Citystate Savings Bank, Planbank, Fortune General Insurance, Fortune Life Insurance, Medical Benefit Clearinghouse Inc. or MBCI, AAA Southeast Equities, and Filipinas Pawnshop.

The ALC Group is also home to trusted pre-need and memorial companies, some of which have been providing excellent memorial care for Filipinos for decades. These are Eternal Gardens Memorial Park, Eternal Chapels and Mortuary Services, Eternal Crematory, and Eternal Plans, Inc. The motoring industry and transportation sector are also being served by the ALC Group through its automotive dealership, Isuzu Gencars Inc. Gencars is known to be the dealer who provided the Pope Mobile for Pope Francis during his visit to the Philippines in January of 2015. Gencars provided the Holy See with another unit, as well, which was shipped to Vatican.

Apart from Gencars, the Batangas City Grand Terminal is also a part of the ALC Group.

The ALC Group contributes to the tourism and hospitality industry through its hotels, namely Citystate Tower Hotel and the Manila Grand Opera Hotel in the City of Manila; and Citystate Asturias Hotel in Puerto Princesa, Palawan.

The conglomerate also ventures in real estate through Citystate Properties and Management Corporation or CPMC. CPMC is a boutique real estate developer known for its distinct and well-designed developments such as Sandari Batulao and Club Ananda.

Three security agencies are also members of the ALC Group. These are Asian Security and Investigation Agency, Eastern Defender Security and Services, and Red Falcon Detective Agency. These security agencies maintain close rapport and coordination with vital security and law enforcement agencies to ensure the quality of service and guarantee client satisfaction.

Clayton Learning Center is another member company of the ALC Group.

It is a progressive preschool that respects the uniqueness of each child in a warm, loving, secure, and ideal learning environment.

Convergence of sister companies

ALC Group chairman Cabangon had the vision to converge all the member companies of the group in one integrated website. Thus, www.alcgroup. com.ph was launched. “Through this website you will get an overview of the companies that make up the ALC Group. Likewise, this website demonstrates how these companies are intertwined and complement each other’s function,”Cabangon said in his message found on the site.

Aside from giving an overview of each member company, the ALC Group website also features the latest updates, events, new services and product offerings from the sister companies, and provides a directory for their main office and branches.

As it continuously expands its network, the conglomerate is also constantly in search of skilled and talented individuals to join its pool of competent staff, officers, and executives. This is why the ALC Group website has a dedicated careers page where jobseekers can check job openings at the different companies, and apply for their desired position.

Other features

In honor of the founder, the ALC Group website features a virtual tour of the Ambassador Antonio L. Cabangon Chua Memorabilia Museum. Through this page on the website, visitors can have a 360 virtual tour of the museum that houses some of Amba’s personal belongings, meaningful mementos, awards received, personal collections, and galleries of photos that capture some of the most unforgettable and inspiring moments in his life.

Just the beginning

Hosted by veteran DJ Braggy Braganza of 97.9 Home Radio, the online launch featured an overview of the companies under the ALC Group, a walkthrough of the Ambassador Antonio L. Cabangon Chua Memorabilia Museum, and a quick tour of the ALC Group website.

Chairman Cabangon took the opportunity to thank all of the supporters of the conglomerate, and send out a birthday greeting to his father in heaven and ask him for his guidance.

“Kung hindi sa inyong lahat, hindi lalaki ang ALC Group of Companies! Salamat sa inyong suporta sa group! On behalf of the Cabangon Family, salamat, at mahal naming kayong lahat! Happy 87th birthday dad! Please continue to guide us!” he said in a comment during the launch.

The launch of the ALC Group integrated website is only the beginning of the conglomerates’ digital journey.

Its member companies are constantly working to improve their media presence by being active in their respective social media platforms. And as it moves forward with digital innovations, the ALC Group will enhance its efforts to continue to advance life in communities across the country.

B2

Companies BusinessMirror

Monday, September 13, 2021

‘Tough curbs to hamper auto industry’s recovery this year’

T

By Tyrone Jasper C. Piad

@TyronePiad

he automotive industry, which is targeting to grow sales by nearly 21 percent this year, are lamenting that the continued implementation of lockdown measures is affecting its efforts to improve its performance.

Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. (Campi) President Rommel Gutierrez said car dealers are aiming to sell 295,400 units this year, or 20.9 percent higher than the 2020 record.

Year-to-date, the joint report by Campi and Truck Manufacturers Association showed that the indus-

try has sold 170,112 units, showing a 37.8-percent improvement from last year’s 123,489 units.

However, the sales dip in August amid the implementation of the two-week enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) in Metro Manila for the third time raised a red flag for the industry.

“The message of this bleak per-

formance is worth noting: stricter lockdown strategy in response to curbing the Covid-19 pandemic affects the auto industry’s recovery this year,” Gutierrez said.

The Campi official said the general slowdown in economic activities and consumer spending was exacerbated by the implementation of ECQ in the capital region and nearby provinces.

In August, car manufacturers saw their sales slide by 11.5 percent to 15,847 units from last year’s 17,906 units; both the passenger car (PC) and commercial vehicle (CV) segments were down as well.

PC sales dropped by 10.3 per-

cent to 4,894 units for the period from 5,454 units last year.

Sales for the CV segment, meanwhile, fell 12 percent to 10,953 units in August from the previous year’s 12,452 units.

From January to August, PC sales jumped by 53.1 percent to 54,402 units from last year’s 35,523 units.

CV sales for the eight-month period climbed to 115,710 units, showing a 31.5-percent increase from 87,966 units the previous year.

Toyota Motor Philippines Corp. maintained leadership in the market with a 48.43-percent market share. It sold 82,389 units in January to August, which is 56.9 percent more than the 52,525 units recorded last year.

Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. followed with a market share of 14.06 percent while Suzuki Phils. Inc. placed third 7.61 percent.

www.businessmirror.com.ph

MREIT cuts IPO size, price

M

two times,” Kevin Andrew L. Tan in a statement. Tan was referring to the demand from institutional investors.

“The company has decided to price the deal at an attractive level to provide more upside to IPO investors who will be its long-term partners in this new journey. At this IPO price, MREIT will be offering investors an attractive dividend yield of 5.65 percent, to be distributed quarterly, and at the same time, we will be giving them exposure to high quality, fastgrowing portfolio of assets.”

Immediately after the IPO, Megaworld will retain a 62.5-percent stake in the company to capture more near term and long term valuation upsides for its shareholders as MREIT grows its portfolio with the maturation of the overall REIT industry in the Philippines, Tan said.

Megaworld will be receiving more proceeds once it completes the impending cash injection of three buildings into MREIT, which is slated to be completed by early 2022, he said.

“The resulting total proceeds is what the sponsor [Megaworld] intended to raise to fund its 21 projects all over the country during the next 12 months,” he said. “MREIT expects both its market cap and float to grow over time as it successfully executes on its aggressive growth trajectory.” VG Cabuag

egaworld Corp., the real estate firm led by businessman Andrew Tan, has slashed the price and the number of shares which will be sold to the public by its real estate investment trust firm MREIT Inc. The company said it will sell some 844.3 million in base offer shares, down from the previous 1.07 billion common shares, and an overallotment option of 105.53 million shares, also down from the previously announced 161.7 million shares.

The final price of the said shares was placed at P16.10 apiece, or 27 percent lower than its earlier indicative price of up to P22 per share.

At the said amount and offer size, MREIT will raise as much as P15.29 billion from the initial public offering (IPO), lower than the P25.71 billion from the previous size.

The Gokongwei Group’s RL Commercial Reit Inc. also slashed its price to P6.45 per share from its indicative price of P7.31 apiece, but it retained its offering at 3.34 billion common shares and the over-allotment option of 305.1 million common shares. It raised some P23.5 billion, which will be listed on the Philippine Stock Exchange within the week.

“If we exercised full option, it would have still been oversubscribed 1.5 times. At this current size we are

mutual funds

September 10, 2021

NAV

One Year Three Year Five Year

per share Return*

Y-T-D Return

Stock Funds ALFM Growth Fund, Inc. -a

222.83

14.01%

-4.71%

-3.5%

-1.93%

ATRAM Alpha Opportunity Fund, Inc. -a

1.5301

40.63%

1.58%

1.84%

16.53%

-8.71%

-6.45%

-2.42%

Climbs Share Capital Equity Investment Fund Corp. -a 0.7393 10.28%

ATRAM Philippine Equity Opportunity Fund, Inc. -a 3.0571

-6.73% n.a.

-8.04%

First Metro Consumer Fund on MSCI Phils. IMI, Inc. -a 0.7671 11.32%

-3.02% n.a.

First Metro Save and Learn Equity Fund,Inc. -a

16.77%

4.9682

3.44%

18.1%

-2.3%

-1.54%

0.54%

First Metro Save and Learn Philippine Index Fund, Inc. -a MBG Equity Investment Fund, Inc. -a

0.7447

13.47%

-4.22%

-5.37%

98.9

18.97%

-5.33% n.a.

-2.98% -2.72%

PAMI Equity Index Fund, Inc. -a

45.5717

16.43%

-3.21%

-2.34%

Philam Strategic Growth Fund, Inc. -a

479.21

13.8%

-2.79%

-2.73%

-2%

Philequity Alpha One Fund, Inc. -a,d

1.1014

25.56% n.a. n.a.

0.37%

Philequity Dividend Yield Fund, Inc. -a

1.2046

20.18%

-1.82%

-1.28%

3.12%

Philequity Fund, Inc. -a

34.6715

18.16%

-2.4%

-1.22%

-0.28%

Philequity MSCI Philippine Index Fund, Inc. -a

0.8913

15.47% n.a. n.a.

-2.38%

Philequity PSE Index Fund Inc. -a

4.6847

17.25%

-2.52%

-1.6%

-2.22%

Philippine Stock Index Fund Corp. -a

782.86

17.2%

-2.48%

-1.69%

-2.34%

Soldivo Strategic Growth Fund, Inc. -a

0.7094

17.63%

-6.53%

-4.86%

-1.32%

Sun Life Prosperity Philippine Equity Fund, Inc. -a 3.6045

16.66%

-4.56%

-2.77%

-0.53%

Sun Life Prosperity Philippine Stock Index Fund, Inc. -a 0.8939 16.77%

-2.82%

-1.85%

-2.59%

United Fund, Inc. -a

-2.59%

-0.86%

-1.03%

-2.31%

-1.18%

3.2849

17.91%

-1.99%

Exchange Traded Fund First Metro Phil. Equity Exchange Traded Fund, Inc. -a,c

105.1324

17.17%

-2.25%

Primarily invested in foreign currency securities $1.2083

16.18%

6.43%

5.54%

0.45%

Sun Life Prosperity World Voyager Fund, Inc. -a $1.855

ATRAM AsiaPlus Equity Fund, Inc. -b

24.77%

12.99%

11.83%

10.89%

Balanced Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities ATRAM Dynamic Allocation Fund, Inc. -a

1.6797

7.59%

0.08%

-1.43%

0.67%

ATRAM Philippine Balanced Fund, Inc. -a

2.2156

8.22%

-0.54%

-1.25%

-3.05%

First Metro Save and Learn Balanced Fund Inc. -a 2.6237

9.66%

0.76%

-0.03%

-0.13%

First Metro Save and Learn F.O.C.C.U.S. Dynamic Fund, Inc. -a 0.1929 NCM Mutual Fund of the Phils., Inc. -a

11.76% n.a. n.a.

1.9641

7.37%

1.88%

0.57%

PAMI Horizon Fund, Inc. -a

3.7004

6.99%

1.08%

-0.64%

-2.32%

Philam Fund, Inc. -a

16.5603

7.42%

1.15%

-0.65%

-2.22%

Solidaritas Fund, Inc. -a

2.0645

8.27%

-0.26%

-0.41%

-1.41%

Sun Life of Canada Prosperity Balanced Fund, Inc. -a 3.5697 9.91%

-1.25%

-1.27%

-0.1%

6.22% n.a. n.a.

-3.36%

Sun Life Prosperity Achiever Fund 2038, Inc. -a,d 0.9086

9.43% n.a. n.a.

-4.28%

Sun Life Prosperity Achiever Fund 2048, Inc. -a,d 0.8958

11.33% n.a. n.a.

Sun Life Prosperity Dynamic Fund, Inc. -a

12.46%

Sun Life Prosperity Achiever Fund 2028, Inc. -a,d 0.9882

0.9

-1.69%

-1.64%

-2.87%

0.01%

-4% 1.39%

Primarily invested in foreign currency securities Cocolife Dollar Fund Builder, Inc. - a

$0.03833

-1.87%

3.04%

1.19%

-2.02%

$1.1127

7.03%

4.58%

3.18%

-3.26%

Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Advantage Fund, Inc. -a $4.8352

18%

9.84%

8.29%

7.14%

Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Wellspring Fund, Inc. -a $1.2301

8.2%

5.7%

4.35%

2.33%

0.58%

PAMI Asia Balanced Fund, Inc. -b

Bond Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities ALFM Peso Bond Fund, Inc. -a

373.22

1.32%

3.06%

2.42%

ATRAM Corporate Bond Fund, Inc. -a

1.9289

-1.03%

1.17%

0.24%

1.51%

Cocolife Fixed Income Fund, Inc. -a

3.2394

1.24%

3.46%

4.21%

0.77%

Ekklesia Mutual Fund Inc. -a

2.2631

-1.72%

2.19%

1.31%

-1.43%

First Metro Save and Learn Fixed Income Fund,Inc. -a 2.4412 -0.53%

3.25%

1.68%

-0.49%

Philam Bond Fund, Inc. -a

4.4816

-3.88%

4.55%

1.21%

-3.3%

Philam Managed Income Fund, Inc. -a

1.3202

0.73%

4.02%

2.71%

-0.08%

3.9874

0.76%

4.79%

2.23%

-0.34%

Soldivo Bond Fund, Inc. -a

1.0385

0.14%

5.02%

1.63%

-0.34%

1.3%

5.21%

2.52%

0.51%

0.52%

4.5%

1.86%

-0.15%

Philequity Peso Bond Fund, Inc. -a

Sun Life of Canada Prosperity Bond Fund, Inc. -a 3.2224 Sun Life Prosperity GS Fund, Inc. -a

1.7524

Primarily invested in foreign currency securities ALFM Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -a

$488.32

2.07%

3.16%

2.1%

0.92%

ALFM Euro Bond Fund, Inc. -a

Є220.68

1.63%

1.14%

0.8%

0.68%

ATRAM Total Return Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -b $1.2099

-5.51%

-2.3%

2.62%

1.44%

First Metro Save and Learn Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -a $0.0262 - 0.38%

1.85%

0.78%

-1.5%

PAMI Global Bond Fund, Inc -b

$1.0515

-3.45%

0.48%

-1.17%

-3.77%

Philam Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -a

$2.5326

1.38%

5.36%

1.93%

-0.12%

Philequity Dollar Income Fund Inc. -a $0.0631019 3.36%

3.54%

2.1%

1.26%

Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Abundance Fund, Inc. -a $3.2047 -0.36%

3.33%

0.76%

-0.59%

Money Market Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities ALFM Money Market Fund, Inc. -a

2.55%

0.66%

First Metro Save and Learn Money Market Fund, Inc. -a 1.0548 1.01% n.a. n.a.

130.67

1.29%

0.64%

Sun Life Prosperity Peso Starter Fund, Inc. -a,1 1.3093

0.98%

1.55%

2.98% 2.78%

2.56%

Primarily invested in foreign currency securities Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Starter Fund, Inc. -a $1.0585

0.97%

1.59% n.a.

0.58%

Feeder Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities Sun Life Prosperity World Equity Index Feeder Fund, Inc. -a,d 1.3403

32.61% n.a. n.a.

18.65%

Primarily invested in foreign currency securities ALFM Global Multi-Asset Income Fund Inc. -a,d

$0.99

5.32% 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 - Launch date is September 28, 2019. 2 - Launch date is November 15, 2019. 3 - Adjusted due to stock dividend issuance last October 9, 2019.

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

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

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

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Banking&Finance

Senate tackles buffers for digital transactions

By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM

S

ENATORS are moving to frontload passage of two measures promoting digital payments while at the same time boosting consumer protection against financial fraud.

This, as both the government and the private sector welcomed the promotion of digital payments as the way forward in providing Filipinos with a fast, safe and efficient way of making transactions in the country.

In filing Senate Bill (SB) 1764 or the Use of Digital Payments Act, Senator Juan Edgardo M. Angara affirmed widespread support for the adoption of digital payments for government and private transactions, “for as long as there are adequate safeguards in place to protect our people.”

At the same time, with a strong backing from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), Senator Sherwin T. Gatchalian pushed anew the passage of his bill protecting financial consumer welfare amid the increased adoption of digitalization of financial products and services in the country.

In welcoming the BSP’s support for Gatchalian’s Senate Bill (SB) 2287 or the proposed “Financial Products and Services Consumer Protection Act,” the Vice Chairman of the Senate Economic Affairs Committee expressed gratitude to the country’s central monetary authority for underscoring the significance of an enabling law that will safeguard the interest of financial consumers.

For his part, Angara affirmed that “instituting digital payments, particularly in all government agencies, offices and local government units, is consistent with the thrust to promote ease of doing business,” assuring this will also “go a long way in ensuring the efficient delivery of services to the people.”

“Consumers have experienced the convenience of making digital payments—be it for buying goods, the payment of services or their monthly bills. Now we want to provide Filipinos the option of doing the same for their transactions with the government so that physically going to and lining up at city hall or other offices will no longer be necessary,” Angara added.

He recalled that in the first committee hearing on SB 1764, government and private sector stakeholders provided inputs on the bill, that Angara assured will be taken into consideration in the committee report endorsing its plenary approval.

In turn, the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) affirmed the Angara bill is in line with the strategies adopted in the Updated Philippine Development Plan 2017-2022 and the BSP’s “Digital Payments Transformation Roadmap 2023.”

For his part, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Karl Kendrick T. Chua concurred in the adoption of digital payments as exceedingly significant in line with

the need for contact-less transactions through financial technologies in transitioning to the new normal.

At the same time, BSP Governor Benjamin E. Diokno affirmed the objective of the bill is aligned with the BSP’s roadmap converting at least 50 percent of volume of retail payments into digital form and having at least 70 percent of Filipino adults on-boarded to the formal financial system by 2023.

Diokno agreed the bill can contribute to the improvement of the country’s status in the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business Report by lowering transaction costs and reducing the time needed to transact with the government.

For his part, Commission on Audit Chairman Michael G. Aguinaldo added the use of various ICT platforms for digital payments in government operations will increase efficiency and decrease the room for corrupt practices through personal interactions with public officials.

Bureau of Internal Revenue Commissioner Caesar R. Dulay, in his turn, agreed the bill will make it easier for taxpayers to settle their taxes and fees.

In its position paper, the Joint Foreign Chambers and the country’s business groups also aired support for early passage of the bill projecting the shift to digital and cashless payments will enable government to save around some $100 million or P5 billion annually.

They added that digital payments not only lower transaction costs, but are environment friendly and reduces resistance and barriers to more Filipinos owning financial transaction accounts. For his part, Betur Inc. CEO Nuaman Mustafa expects the measure to fast track the development of the digital payments industry in the country and boost the reputation of electronic money issuers as a safe and convenient platform for all consumers. Betur is the operator of Coins.ph and licensed by the BSP as a remittance agent.

CIO Foundation Forum Inc. Chairman George C. Kintanar agreed the bill is considerably timely under the new normal, promotes fast and more orderly transactions and ensures greater transparency and security in government financial transactions.

Once enacted into law, SB 1764 mandates utilization of digital payment in the collection of taxes, fees, tolls, imposes and other revenues and in the payment of goods, services and other disbursements.

Angara added the bill will also facilitate the transfer of government payments such as the cash aid provided to targeted recipients during the enhanced community quarantine by directly transferring the money into their bank or digital accounts.

For its part, the House of Representatives already approved its counterpart version embodied in House Bill 8992 filed by Bataan Rep. Jose Enrique S. Garcia III.

BusinessMirror

Editor: Dennis D. Estopace • Monday, September 13, 2021

B3

Tariffs from rice imports dip as volume continued decline

T

By Bernadette D. Nicolas

@BNicolasBM

HE Bureau of Customs (BOC) collected P11.69 billion in tariffs from rice imports as of August 29, lower than its haul in the same period last year as rice import volume sustained its downward trend.

In a report, Customs Commissioner Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero said that revenue collected from rice imports from January to August 29 this year was down by 4.4 percent from P12.22 billion in the comparable period in 2020.

Guerrero said there was a 7.6-percent drop in the rice import volume year-on-year to 1.74 million metric tons (MT) from 1.88 million MT. Nonetheless, he pointed out that during the period there was a 4.1-percent uptick in the average value of rice imports this year to P20,188 per MT from P19,386 per MT last year “on the back of the bureau’s improved valuation system.”

The BusinessMirror reported

last month that the National Economic Development Authority is growing wary of shipment delays affecting the country’s rice imports.

But industry players and experts dismissed its possible adverse impact on the country’s supply of the staple.

The delays resulted from the global shipping problem arising from lack of vessels and containers as economies were locked down to stem the spread of Covid-19.

Monetary Board Member V. Bruce J. Tolentino also explained that higher domestic palay harvest experienced by the country in the past two semesters led to the reduction of rice imports this year.

An industry source earlier told

the BusinessMirror that Covid19-related problems in exporting countries have slowed down rice exports to the Philippines, worsened by lower domestic staple demand as a result of unemployment and depletion of savings.

Meanwhile, the BOC is also looking into valuation issues on rice shipments from January to June this year.

Guerrero earlier ordered the transaction audit after the bureau noticed that most of the rice imports from Vietnam were declared with values lower than the published prevailing prices for exports from that country.

To recall, President Duterte’s Executive Order (EO) 135 temporarily lowered the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) tariff rates on rice imports to 35 percent from 40 percent (inquota) 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 previously 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.

DOF Chief to CAAP: Collect Fintech firm signs deal ₧570-M fees from PAL, unit with Oxfam for charity

F

INANCE Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez III wants flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) and its PAL Express unit to settle their outstanding obligations to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), which has so far amounted to P570 million as of end-August.

Dominguez, who sits as a member of the CAAP Board of directors, told reporters he had asked Transportation Secretary and CAAP Board Chairman Arthur P. Tugade “to intensify collection efforts.”

Citing data from Tugade, Dominguez said PAL’s outstanding obligation to CAAP as of end-August this year is P373 million while PAL Express owes another P197 million.

The finance chief said the government may still collect the landing fees from PAL even during the implementation of its rehabilitation plan.

Under Section 19 of the Financial Rehabilitation and Insolvency Act (FRIA) of 2010, the imposition of taxes and fees, including penalties, interests and charges due to the national government or to local government units shall be considered waived upon issuance of the Commencement Order by the court and until the approval of the rehabilitation plan or dismissal of the petition, whichever is earlier.

“This provision does not apply to landing fees as these are not collected by the national government but by the CAAP or MIAA [Manila International Airport Authority],” said Dominguez, who was also a former Chief Executive Officer of PAL. “Also, it can be considered that

landing fees are ordinary and regular expenses hence may be collectible even during the implementation of the rehabilitation plan,” he added.

On Friday, PAL announced that it secured clearance from the US Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York to tap an initial $20 million from $505-million debtor-in-possession financing for it to continue operating.

PAL recently filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in New York as it works out a “consensual” restructuring plan with creditors, suppliers and shareholders. PAL is the only party included in the Chapter 11 filing; while PAL Holdings Inc., which is listed on the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE: PHI), and Air Philippines Corp., known as PAL Express, are not included in the Chapter 11 filing.

As relayed by Tugade to Dominguez, PAL and PAL Express “committed to make current all their obligations to CAAP, incurred from July 2021 onwards.”

Tugade said that obligations prior to July this year shall be subject to reconciliation and immediate payment, the terms of which to be agreed between the CAAP and PAL. It is also still subject to final Board approval.

The Civil Aviation Authority Act of 2008 grants CAAP fiscal autonomy. All monies the regulator earns from the collection or levy of any and all such fees, charges, dues, assessments and fines it is empowered to collect / levy under the Act shall be used solely to fund the operations of the Authority. Bernadette D. Nicolas

By Rizal Raoul S. Reyes @brownindio

F

INANCIAL technology (fintech) firm PayMaya Philippines Inc. announced it recently partnered with the British-based Oxford Committee for Famine Relief (Oxfam) to develop a program that facilitates the disbursement of digital cash transfers to PayMaya accounts by residents of the town of Salcedo, Eastern Samar.

PayMaya Philippines President Shailesh Baidwan said the program uses smart data that functions as an early warning system to enable the recipients to prepare for an incoming disaster.

Baidwan said beneficiaries will use the funds to buy essentials at local PayMaya QR and card-enabled merchants or for telco load and utility bills via the PayMaya app. Moreover, residents can also cash out funds through Smart Padala outlets in their communities.

To claim the cash, a beneficiary of the program needs to show a PayMaya card powered by PayMaya where Oxfam disburses the funds that can be used to prepare for any upcoming disaster in their area.

“During disasters, time is of the essence. People cannot wait. That’s why anticipatory actions are necessary so our people can stockpile essentials and secure their assets,” Salcedo Mayor Melchor L. Mergal was quoted in a statement as saying.

Meanwhile, the barangay captain of Butig, Salcedo, said the community members use the funds to buy rice and other food items amid rising inflation rates.

“Three days before the typhoon comes, we have received the digital cash transfer,” Barangay Captain Eduardo E. Ogalino of Barangay Butig, Salcedo.

Ogalino added that community members use the anticipatory relief on rice and other food items before the prices go up.

“Digital cash transfers are more appropriate because the most vulnerable communities do not have access to banks and traditional remittance companies. Everyone owns a phone, making mobile wallets suitable for humanitarian cash disbursement program,” Niña Abogado, senior manager for programs and partnerships of Oxfam’s Philippines operations.

“Using digital cash transfers streamline the system for humanitarian efforts of the government, NGOs [nongovernment organizations] and private sector partners, resulting in a more costeffective, high impact delivery of aid,” Baidwan said.

“For the beneficiaries, receiving financial assistance directly to their PayMaya accounts gives them the capability to determine how to best use the funds for their own needs. It adds dignity to the social aid process,” he added.

To d ate, t he prog ra m, ca l led “Building Resilient Adaptive and Disaster Ready Communities,” has benefitted 1,975 households in Salcedo. Digital cash transfers are a central part of the intervention, but it is not the only component. Oxfam calls it the project that “bridges the gap between typhoon preparedness and financial inclusion.”

“The most vulnerable do not have formal bank accounts, so we integrate financial literacy in our program,” Abogado said in Pilipino.

According to PayMaya, the program was crafted after the onslaught of Super Typhoon Yolanda. It’s an initiative that combines disaster preparedness, weather forecasting and financial technology.

SBMA exec optimistic more court victories after winning in Philip Morris case

By Henry Empeño

S

UBIC BAY FREEPORT—Still facing an array of court cases meant to stop the implementation of charges for municipal services given to businesses and residents here, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) is nevertheless optimistic it will see these legal impediments fall one by one following a favorable decision from the High Tribunal recently.

SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator for Support Services Ramon

O. Agregado said the SBMA is expecting more court victory on the issue of the Common Use Service Area (CUSA) fee. The Cusa fee was opposed by some businessmen and residents here since it was imposed nine years ago.

“We’re very happy that ultimately the Supreme Court [SC] decided in SBMA’s favor and sustained the validity of the Cusa fee,” Agregado, who heads the agency’s legal team, said.

“Once the SC’s decision becomes final, we will invoke [that] decision in all of the other cases involving other

locators who filed cases against the CUSA fee,” he added.

The landmark decision SBMA is counting on had dismissed the petition filed by Philip Morris Philippines Manufacturing Inc. in 2013 to stop the imposition of CUSA. The tobacco giant is a registered business locator here and operates a P1-billion tobacco leaf regional warehouse here, which handles imported tobacco leaves from foreign suppliers for eventual shipment and processing in cigarette manufacturing plants in the Philippines, Malaysia

and Indonesia.

When the SBMA imposed the CUSA fee in October 2012 to defray the cost of municipal services like law enforcement, fire-fighting, street lighting, and street cleaning, Philip Morris sued claiming among others that the fee was in fact a property tax.

The SC’s First Division, however, recently issued a 19-page resolution denying the Philip Morris petition to seek the reversal of the decision issued by the Court of Appeals (CA), which affirmed the December 2, 2015. ruling of the Regional Trial

Court (RTC) of Olongapo City dismissing the firm’s plea to stop the CUSA. In upholding the CA, the SC affirmed the constitutionality of the imposition of CUSA fee by the SBMA, adding that Republic Act 7227, which created the SBMA, “granted it authority to impose reasonable fees and charges for the provision of the municipal services covered by the CUSA Fee.” Agregado said the SBMA is now waiting for the SC to affirm its decision and make it final and executory.

“Procedurally, Philip Morris can still file a motion for reconsideration. But we feel very confident that, ultimately, the Supreme Court will affirm its decision, which was very comprehensive,” Agregado said.

The decision, he added, “covered all of the issues raised by Philip Morris.” Agregado said that aside from the Philip Morris’s complaint, the SBMA still faces “about 11 to 12 cases filed by other locators against the CUSA fee.” Some of these, he said, have already passed the RTC and are already in the CA.

HarvardManagementUpdate www.businessmirror.com.ph Monday, September 13, 2021 b4

BusinessMirror BusinessMirror

Monday, July 13, 2020 B www.businessmirror.com.ph

Why Artificial Intelligence Will Never Replace Managers

O

By Frank Martela & Jukka Luoma

Wit h t heir raw ca lc u l at ive power, computers easi ly beat humans in conscious-reasoning tasks, as long as the rules and parameters of the situation are known. Managers routinely turn to mathematical optimization and simulation to build investment portfolios, make pricing decisions and understand supplychain risks. And while humans used to be superior at pattern recognition, which is largely intuitive, computers now can be trained to develop their ow n intuitions from large masses of data using machine learning. In recent studies, machines proved better than humans at expert tasks such as detecting cancer in computer tomography scans and choosing investment targets.

Given the way things are going, can managers continue to add value to organizations? Luckily, there’s one cognitive ability where people still have the edge over computers: thinking really slowly.

Really slow thinking is used in reframing—the process by which we reexamine the parameters, objectives and assumptions we approach decisions with.

Reframing is not about solving the problem but about defining what exactly is the problem to be solved.

Reframing isn’t easy. The way in which managers frame decisions can be deeply entrenched

in industry traditions, organizational history and executives’ own education and experience.

Reframing can be extremely time-consuming, but it is crucial.

Groundbreaking business model innovations often result when companies break away from established ideas about how value is created and captured. Look at Amazon.com. In 1999 a CNBC reporter challenged Jeff Bezos because the company, with its large, expensive distributions centers and many employees, was no longer the pure internet play investors were high on. “Internet, shminternet,” Bezos replied.

Instead of accepting the “pure i nter net ” versu s “t rad it ion a l retail ” dichotomy, he reframed the conversation in terms of an obsession with delivering a great c ustomer e x per ience a nd e xplained how all Amazon’s strategic choices focused on that goal.

W hen market dy namics change, reframing can be especially critical. Consider Nokia.

In the feature phone business, it had learned to expect that with successful new offerings sales would take off quickly and profits would be good. As a result, the company decided against some costly investments and walked back courses of action that didn’t produce immediate results. In the early 2000s it pulled the plug on many pioneering innova-

TARA WINSTED | PEXELS.COM

f all the tools managers use to lead their businesses, thinking is the most crucial. It involves two distinct ways of processing information: one intuitive and the other conscious, which the psychologist and economist Daniel Kahneman calls “fast” and “slow” thinking. Today computers increasingly outperform people in both.

tions that were seen as too risky or d id n’t init ia l ly e x per ience widespread adoption, including touch-screen phones, tablet devices and mobile gaming. This approach was particularly damaging when competition moved to the ecosystem level. The smartphone era required a new longgame mindset that the quickly moving hardware king lacked.

Humans’ ability to think really slow is also key to state-of-theart artificial intelligence, which doesn’t function unless people first reframe a business problem as an AI problem. As Ajay Agrawal, Joshua Gans and Avi Goldfarb have argued, AI is simply a variety of prediction algorithms. Reframing problems that demand time-consuming human judgment and careful analysis (such as identifying insurance fraud and assessing creditworthiness) as prediction problems is precisely how the likes of Lemonade and Kabbage have shaken up mature businesses such as consumer insurance and smallbusiness lending.

In a world where managers can use computers to enhance their ability to think both fast and slow, the ability to reframe w ill increasingly separate the

wheat from the chaff. Here are four strategies to help you cultivate the skill:

n Dedicate time to not thinking about the problem:

Research suggests that a period of incubation helps produce more creative solutions. W hen you set aside a problem for a period, you distance yourself from its current framing, making room for restructuring and spontaneous insights. So after you initiate the process of solving a problem, go and do something completely different for a while, letting things cook slowly on your back burner.

n Make hidden assumptions explicit: We’re mostly unaware

of t he l imiting , self-imposed assumptions with which we approach situations. Group processes that are designed to induce cognitive conf lict can help surface them. You can make one g roup a rg ue aga i nst a not her group’s solution (devil ’s advocacy) or make two groups develop opposing solutions to a problem (dialectical inquiry). Building a mathematical model of the problem can also be helpful, because it forces you to spell out assumptions about what is causing the

problem and how proposed remedies are supposed to work. Modeling often reveals unanticipated dynamics, triggering shifts in our mindsets about how to best manage certain things.

n Engage in playful exploration: Injecting an element of the imaginative into decision-making can help managers mentally distance themselves from tacit assumptions and “industry recipes”—what everyone who knows the industry understands—and unleash creativity. This liberation from ordinary constraints can be accomplished by, for example, asking teams to build Lego models of their business ideas in order to communicate them to others.

n Leverage (surprising) analogies: Analogies are power-

ful tools for reframing familiar problems. Ideas and practices from one industry can be used to reshape another. Berry Gordy Jr., for instance, made Motown Records into a pop music hit factory by modeling it after the Ford Motor Company’s assembly line, where he had previously worked.

In some cases, exposing yourself to something completely different—like combat sports, opera or

superhero comics—can be a great way to gain fresh insights. Apple’s minimalist design was inspired by the calligraphy classes, Zen Buddhism lessons and Bauhaus architecture Steve Jobs was exposed to. Even when the analogy is imperfect, it may provide the rough outlines for a novel framing of a vexing problem.

While managers can add these practices to their tool kits to enhance their ow n reframing capabilities, they also have a responsibility to ensure that the broader organization supports reframing. The first step is to build channels and foster a culture where the in-house devil ’s advocates and visionaries can voice their concerns and ideas, and employees have time for playful exploration and incubation.

T hough such efforts may not result in tangible benefits immediately, they may be essential for the renewal and long-term prosperity of the organization and its stakeholders.

Frank Martela is a postdoctoral researcher in the department of industrial engineering and management at Aalto University, where Jukka Luoma is an assistant professor in strategic management.

Inside DoorDash’s Leadership Accelerator for Women of Color

By Gayle Allen & Bie Aweh

H

iring women of color is just one piece of a company’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. Another is advancement in the organization, and that’s still a challenge. In 2020, women of color held only 12% of managerial positions, 9% of senior manager/director roles and 3% of C-suite titles. For Black women, these percentages were even lower.

Frustratingly, the numbers have remained unchanged for the past six years.

It’s clear that companies must address the systemic race and gender issues that contribute to the problem, but women of color shouldn’t have to wait until they do. Launching programs that focus on inclusion and career advancement can make a big difference in the interim, especially if they combine coaching and sponsoring women of color with manager training.

Here’s how one company created a career accelerator for women of color — and how you can implement a similar program at your own organization.

Doordash’s elevate program

DoorDash, Bie’s employer and a client of Gayle’s company, is a logistics platform headquartered in San Francisco. (You may know it as the

company that delivers your favorite takeout.) Committed to increasing the number of women, people of color and nonbinary employees at all levels of the organization, the company developed a program it named Elevate. As Lisa Lee, the company’s vice president of global culture and belonging, shared, “We will miss out on innovation and growth if these important perspectives are not incorporated in key business decisions.”

Elevate is a career accelerator designed specifically for women of color who hold or aspire to hold leadership roles in the company.

Participants, known as fellows, engage in a six-month cohort experience, which includes the following monthly activities: n One-on-one coaching sessions with an external executive coach; n Executive sponsor meetings with company directors and C-suite members; n Career workshops; n Attendance at leadership team meetings.

Toward the end of the program, fellows create a career plan in collaboration with their manager, sponsor, coach and program manager. They also reflect on their three most important takeaways and share these during a graduation ceremony, which is attended by their managers and members of the com-

pany’s senior management team, including C-suite executives. “The speeches and the collective celebrations of the Elevate members at the conclusion of the program are some of the most heartwarming I’ve ever experienced in a corporate setting,” shared Ryan Sokol, vice president of engineering and a sponsor in the program. “This program builds confidence and raises the leaders of DoorDash’s tomorrow.”

Elevate is now in its third session, and participant data confirms it’s had a significant impact in three areas: n Career progression: Within six months of completing the program, 38% of fellows earned promotions, a percentage that is much higher than that for their non-Elevate peers. n Hiring and retention: There’s been a marked increase in managers recommending fellows to others.

This is good news for hiring and retaining women of color. n Career navigation: Fellows learned to position themselves more strategically for new roles and promotions. They also addressed skill gaps that might hinder advancement.

How to launch your own career accelerator

If a program doesn’t create real change, it won’t be around very long. Launching a successful career accelerator requires three actions:

1. Identify the right leader:

Find a “passionate builder,” an advocate for women of color who’s eager to create the program. If possible, target someone at the senior manager or director level who has influence throughout the organization.

This person should also be: n Invested: The right advocate wants women of color to advance, knows why it’s important that they do and recognizes how systemic racism holds them back. Such a leader is also willing to educate others to help them understand. n Persuasive: The right advocate listens well, effectively answers questions and speaks with confidence, anticipating resistance and tailoring the message to different audiences. n Adaptable: The right advocate works with the available resources and finds ways to get what is needed to accomplish the established goals. n Data-driven: The right advocate knows what data will help measure success and plans how and when to gather information.

2. Generate buy-in: To ensure the program’s success, it’s essential to get buy-in from key stakeholder groups. Here’s what’s needed from each: n Leaders: Their buy-in is essential for budget approval of the program. They should also serve as sponsors and give participants

access to team meetings. n Managers: Their buy-in assures they’ll promote the program.

If one of their direct reports participates, they’ll attend manager training sessions and meetings. n Participants: Their buy-in means they’ll attend all program meetings and activities. They’ll also serve as a resource to their colleagues in the program and will consider serving as a mentor to future participants.

To get buy-in more quickly, start with a pilot. A smaller group means less money. It also helps you gather data to measure impact. Finally, it lets you work out any kinks before the program is rolled out to a wider audience with a bigger spotlight.

Ensure results for participants:

Ultimately, the program’s success hinges on whether women of color get promoted. The tricky thing is that each participant will need something different. For example, some might want help navigating the promotion process or expanding their network.

Others might need to connect with a sponsor who will advocate on their behalf. Still others may benefit from watching strategic thinking and decision-making in action in leadership meetings. All may benefit from the increased confidence t h at comes f rom i nterac t i ng with leaders across the company.

That’s why a diverse set of program elements is so important.

Providing coaching, offering skillbuilding workshops, connecting each participant to a sponsor and a network of leaders and giving them access to leadership meetings can ensure individuals get what they need to accelerate their career.

Finally, gathering data is key. In addition to looking at promotion numbers, gather data on changes in participants’ confidence levels before and after the program. Find out how their network changed, whether they gained a mentor, how they now think about their career and what they learned from attending leadership meetings. Ultimately, you want to discover which elements of the program had the biggest impact and why.

A genuine commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion for women of color will require a variety of initiatives. These should affect every aspect of the employee experience from recruitment to exit. While no single program is a silver bullet, a well-designed career accelerator can ensure women of color advance in your organization.

Gayle Allen is co-founder of The Innovators’ Circle, an executive coaching firm. Bie Aweh is the senior people growth manager for women, nonbinary and underrepresented talent development at DoorDash.

Style

BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Editor: Gerard S. Ramos

• Monday, September 13, 2021

B5

Homme sweet homme C

THE Michael Kors Spring/Summer 2022 collection is modeled here by Irina Shayk during Fashion Week, in New York on Friday, September10. AP

Michael Kors returns to NY Fashion Week with urban romance NEW YORK—Love and romance were the dreamy threads that bound together Michael Kors’ Spring/ Summer 2022 collection, presented in Central Park in a show that emphasized the forced intimacy of the pandemic and the optimism of love in New York City.

Kendall Jenner opened the show in a timeless sleek black pencil skirt with a thin leather belt fastened around the waist and a simple bra. Other looks included an oversized pink fuzzy sweater with a wide turtle neck, a modernized circle skirt, a monochromatic checkered blazer and mini skirt, with each piece embodying romantic silhouettes and fabrics in a sophisticated and charming way.

Held at Central Park’s Tavern on the Green, the show highlighted a cozy and warm environment with lush green arches adorned with blush pink roses and whites peonies. The structured and sharply tailored clothes mirrored the venue in its light and nostalgic vibe.

Models like Jenner, Gigi Hadid, Imaan Hammam, and Precious Lee were draped in gowns and skirts in subdued color palettes of black, white, pink, tan and a dash of baby blue and prints—keeping the collection right on par for the spring and summer season.

Hadid closed the show in a black ankle-length cross-front gown with hand-embroidered sequins.

Kate Hudson, Hailee Steinfeld, Lucy Hale and Olivia Holt were among the stars at the show, which included a performance from Arianna Debose, who sang classic jazz love songs like Nat King Cole’s “L-OV-E.” Kors recalled names like Sophia Loren, Ingrid Bergman and Jackie Kennedy as inspirations for the timeless line.

But most of all, Kors emphasized that style is back after a year of coronavirus-related shutdowns plagued the city’s arts and culture venues.

“I started seeing people getting dressed up to just go out and have a hamburger, just the joy of expressing yourself through fashion,” he said.

“Comfort is a big part of American fashion always. So how do we combine feeling polished, glamorous and dressed up but never give up comfort?”

To Kors, regardless of what chaos is happening in the world, he says he hopes his work and latest collection helps people feel comfortable regardless of their size or age.

“I think everyone just wants to feel good about themselves, wants to have fun, and also wants to buy something that makes them feel great but lasts, something that stands the test of time,” he said.

“Because the idea of something disposable, to me, is just, it’s an affront, you know, fashion is not meant to be disposable.” AP

ATA FIGUEROA JR., one of the country’s esteemed fashion directors, hopes that by the first quarter of 2022, live shows will again be in full swing. “I know that most of us are affected by the pandemic but I am praying we will, slowly but surely, start doing things following the protocols of the new normal,” he says.

Figueroa will have in-person events slated for November. But for the past months, he has been boosting the morale of his fashion friends through his virtual presentations at his YouTube channel, Potpourri with Cata Figueroa. The first one, “Veneration: A Virtual Flores de Mayo” in May, was to give thanks to Mama Mary for keeping everyone away from harm. “I was born on October 7, the feast of Our Lady of the Rosary, and I felt that I owe everything to her. Thankfully, my family, especially my senior-aged parents, have been spared from Covid-19. I keep on praying that Mama Mary will continue to bless us with good health,” he shares.

The fourth and latest virtual presentation, “Hombre,” focused on male clothing. Figueroa wanted to highlight the designers who do menswear, although some had to back out on the week leading to the premiere showing due to reasons beyond their control (family and staff problems).

“Since menswear is general, there were no specific requirements as to the collections that they should show. Even with the number of clothes, I left it to their discretion as long as everything fits within the 1 1/2 minute time allocation for each designer,” he explains.

“The main objective of the virtual shows is to show to everyone that despite the pandemic, the designers are still there to create clothes for those who would like to have their outfits custom-made.”

Figueroa sent invitations to designers across the archipelago and those who heeded the call are Akmad Kari Jr., Ann Casas, Dexter Alazas, Gener Gozum, Gil Macaibay III, Joseph Palma, N Inabel by Niña Corpuz, Rey Lazaro and Robert Gonzales. Among the younger designers, the more exciting collections are courtesy of Bo Parcon of Iloilo City and Mark Christopher Yaranon of Cagayan de Oro City.

Lyle Ibañez’s collection is a tale of seduction, joy and freedom. “Seduction, because my fashion seduces you to buy and wear me. Joy, because we feel good and happy if we like what we are wearing, and it gives us confidence. Freedom, because it allows us to be ourselves, and to choose and wear whatever we want,” the beloved designer says.

“I’ve always preferred black [as a color palette]. It is mysterious yet it is easy to wear. My black series

checkered pattern and worked-on details like pockets and contrast color piping. Denim in indigo blue and pinstripe not as jeans but in shaped pants, wide-leg shorts, blazers and overcoat, and rayon crepe for wide-leg pants.”

“I can say fashion retail is really bad. No one is buying fashion items, no events to attend unless it is a wedding but still with limited guests in this pandemic and lockdown periods.”

Figueroa is confident that fashion will flourish once more: “We all have no choice but to really live with this pandemic. My advice to designers and budding directors is to not give up. There is light at the end of the tunnel. Let us make use of this lull moment to learn about the new technologies of the business.

I self-educated myself with technical knowledge to better my craft. It is my fervent hope that fashion people would do the same for our own good.” ■

Stray Kids tapped to endorse naturalist beauty brand

NACIFIC’S famous Fresh Herb Origin Serum is called the “curse serum” reportedly because of the tingling sensation you will feel upon application. This happens when your skin is damaged or very dry. Once the damage or dryness is gone and the skin heals, the tingling disappears.

Reach your beauty goals at twice the speed Consumers can speed up the pace in achieving their beauty goals by pairing Kojie.san soap and lotion with each other, better together for more unbeatable power that reveals lighter and even skin tone as quickly as possible.

A true innovator in kojic acid formulation, Kojie.san soaps and lotions contain Zero Pigment Light technology that zeroes in on dark spots, age spots, scars, melasma and hyperpigmentation. Used individually, the soaps and lotions deliver great results. But when used in combination, they promise better performance—twice as fast. That is because the Kojie.san soaps and lotions are especially formulated to work in tandem to give consumers optimal results, accelerating their goal in getting the complexion they have always wanted.

The original Kojie.san Skin Lightening Classic Soap keeps everything that is beloved of high-grade kojic acid

is schoolboy-inspired. I call that Radicality. The lace series, Romanticism, is composed of a black shirt with dentelle back details paired with tangerine and black jacquard trousers, black dentelle tees with silver lamé tank with black cropped pants, and the jeweled swimwear with matching sling bag to add a bit of skin to the presentation,” Ibañez explains.

“It really is dark times in fashion now; that is one reason why I wanted to come up with something fun and still wearable yet now.”

Meanwhile, the menswear master Anthony Nocom calls his collection the “Man About Town.”

“The inspiration is the contemporary man— metrosexual, on-the-go, vain, expresses himself through his dressing style. Colors are blue, black, offwhite, beige—these are the colors of men no matter.

Fabrics are stretch cotton, ramie linen, rayon, ribbed knit, cotton twill,” Nocom shares. “Shirts are in a

but now made more potent with Zero Pigment Light to reveal fairer skin. The Kojie.san Skin Lightening HydroMoist Soap contains the same technology, with the addition of HydroMoist formula to target dark spots and even out skin tone while keeping it moisturized for hours.

After showering, take the second step by using Zero Pigment Light-powered Kojie.san lotions to double the benefits of the latest kojic acid technology. Both also come in a light, non-greasy HydroMoist formulation that is easily absorbed by your skin. Kojie.san Skin Lightening Body Lotion with HydroMoist deeply moisturizes skin to keep it soft, smooth, and well hydrated for up to 72 hours. The Skin Lightening Body Lotion SPF25 w/ HydroMoist variant with its UVA UVB filters protects skin from harsh environmental factors that can lead to skin damage.

More information is available at www.kojiesan.com.

Many people swear by the serum for acne, skin sensitivity and many other skin conditions.

The tingling sensation comes from the amino acids used in a a proprietary patented antioxidant, called Sepicalm, which also includes water lily extract.

Other ingredients include lemongrass, lime peel, applemint and aloe leaf water. The serum is vegan and cruelty-free.

Nacific Fresh Herb Origin Serum is a bi-phase, oilessence formula so you will have to shake the serum to mix the two layers before applying. If your skin is oily, the brand says you can opt not to shake the bottle and just use the oil on too.

This serum caused quite a stir years ago because it was reportedly a favorite of actress Jun Ji-hyun (My Sassy Girl, My Love from the Star and Ashin of the North). This serum is

so in-demand that it has sold over 1 million bottles worldwide.

Nacific was also endorsed by EXO member Chanyeol, who is currently enlisted in the military.

Last week, Nacific announced that it has selected the JYP Entertainment boy group Stray Kids as the new face of the brand.

“Stray Kids’ healthy and bright energy fits well with the brand concept of Nacific, which pursues natural beauty. It is expected to have a positive synergy effect in establishing its position as a K-beauty brand along with Stray Kids, who is leading the industry,” said a representative from the brand.

Stray Kids has eight members: Bang Chan, Lee Know, Changbin, Hyunjin, Han, Felix, Seungmin and I.N. Aside from the Fresh Herb Origin line, Nacific is also know for its Phyto Niacin and Real Floral lines.

The Phyto Niacin Whitening Essence contains vitamin C derivatives from lemon, morus alba bark and rosa canina fruit, while the Nacific Real Floral Toner Calendula has calendula water, allantoin and centella extract.

Launched in 2015, Nacific, which carries the slogan “The Beginning of Natural Beauty,” uses premium quality ingredients that are harnessed from nature.

The best thing about a Korean artist endorsing a beauty brand is the photo cards that come with product purchases, and this holds true for Stray Kids’ endorsement of Nacific. Last we checked, the products that came with photo cards were sold-out on Shopee but there might have been a restock since then.

In the Philippines, the brand’s products are available at its official stores in LazMall and Shopee.

CLOCKWISE: Lyle Ibañez (models: @kirk_jason26, @akusuraj, @borjajames23; videographer/ photographer; Art Alera), Bo Parcon (model: Paolo Catarata; photographer: Kaye Ganzon Ong), Anthony Nocom (models: JP, Maximo, Drigo, Dan and Mark Jason; videographer/ photographer: Aarleta III), Mark Christopher Yaranon (model: Ralde Beja; photographer: Phillip Vallespin)

B6 Monday, September 13 2021

September is Philippine Film Industry Month TMP Tech receives national accolade from TESDA for quality standard course

TMP TECH TESDA TWO STAR AWARD. TESDA Secretary Isidro S. Lapeña presenting the “Two Stars Award” to TMP Tech.

T

HE Toyota Motor Philippines School of Technology or TMP Tech, a premiere automotive technical school, received the “Two Stars Award” from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) for quality standards and course implementation of Automotive Servicing National Certification (NC) Level IV. The conferment was held during the 4th National Quality TVET Forum, wherein TMP Tech stood out as the sole recipient of the award among 338 TESDA-accredited automotive Technical-Vocational Institutions (TVIs) nationwide.

The Two Stars Award is the second highest distinction under the TESDA’s System for TVET Accreditation and Recognition or STAR Program that aims to promote and uphold excellence among TVIs. This year, while no TVI has received the Three Star Awards,

only five among TVIs in the Philippines have been conferred with the Two Stars Award. TMP Tech being the only awardee among TVIs with automotive course, affirms its standing as a “Center of Technical Proficiency” on the national level, made evident by its development and implementation of sound processes and procedures to establish a Quality Assurance System in NC training and assessment.

Despite the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, TMP Tech finds ways to continuously enhance its curriculum through collaboration with partners and adaptation of blended learning modality. With its recent partnership with Colombo Plan Staff College, an international governmental organization, TMP Tech instructors have been engaging in online training on global TVET standards with professionals from various Asian countries. Moreover,

through various scholarship partners such as the Toyota Dealer Association and GT Foundation, Inc., the school has boosted its scholarship programs on top of its flexible tuition payment schemes for students facing economic difficulties.

Founded in 2013 by Toyota Motor Corporation Honorary Chairman Dr. Shoichiro Toyota and TMP Founding Chairman Dr. George S.K. Ty, TMP Tech has been geared towards developing highly skilled Filipino youth through world-class education. It has established its presence as a major source of highly competent automotive professionals for the local and global Toyota Network.

TMP Tech currently conducts online classes as well as workshop sessions under strict health and safety protocols in its campus in Santa Rosa City, Laguna.

Enrollment for the incoming batch opens with an announcement of online admissions for student applicants.

Upcycled container vans provide staff housing in GBP’s Iloilo plant

M

AINTAINING sustainable operations is a commitment Global Business Power Corporation (GBP) purposefully adheres to in its plant facilities situated in Iloilo and Cebu. In addition to responsible disposal of waste, GBP also applies solid waste management and upcycling practices in accordance with R.A. 9003 or the Solid Waste Management Act. GBP’s upcycling approach has found a practical use for old container vans particularly in its plant site in Iloilo.

When the Company’s subsidiary, Panay Energy Development Corporation (PEDC), embarked on an expansion project in 2017, the site was left with scraps, debris and other construction wastes like cargo containers, PVC pipes and metals after its completion.

From six units of 20-foot cargo containers, GBP built an integrated facility with 12 rooms that can

accommodate up to 24 individuals. Each room has single to double-occupancy beds, full air-conditioning, and their own bathrooms. Old wooden pallets and plywood were also recycled to be used as wall accent of the facility, giving it a very homey feel.

The ConVan’s common amenities include a spacious hall with a high ceiling, a dining area, and a roof deck garden fit for social gatherings. The facility also has an atrium for meetings and a spot perfect for holding the Company’s Coaching Café. During the day, the entrance hall is easily filled with natural light.

Previously, the ConVan was primarily used to provide lodging for trainees and guests of the GBP institute for Energy (GIE) which is located at the same compound. However, GBP’s ConVan proved particularly useful during the sudden rise of COVID-19

when movement to and from the site became restrictive. The complex was home to employees who had to stay-in to ensure the efficient and continuous operation of GBP’s power generation plants in Iloilo.

“Our ConVan Housing is an example of GBP’s commitment to sustainability and preservation of the environment,” said GBP President Jaime T. Azurin.

“The ConVan Housing project is more than just a symbol of our advocacy.

It actually shows that these recycling or upscaling efforts have real-world applications, especially in the business sector. Apart from saving landfill space and monetary resources, it served as a functional facility for our operations.”

As a member of the One MERALCO Group, GBP strives to pursue diverse sustainable endeavours in accordance with the group’s long-term sustainability agenda.

W

ITH the theme “Ngayon Ang Bagong Sinemula,” the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) holds an annual monthlong observation of the first Philippine Film Industry Month to celebrate and commemorate the heritage, significance, and legacy of Philippine Cinema and to highlight the invaluable contribution and sacrifices of all stakeholders and sectors of the Philippine film industry this September as mandated

by President Rodrigo Duterte under the Presidential Proclamation No. 1085.

FDCP unveiled the lineup of free film screenings, programs, projects, and activities for the whole month on September 1 in the agency’s official online pages and FDCP Channel.

An online campaign that aims to support the anticipated resumption of local cinemas, the #NoodTayoNgSine, was launched with a Campaign Reel. The campaign also held a free screening of the documentary film “Palasyo ng Pelikula” by Howie Severino on the FDCP Channel.

A virtual tour for the relaunch of FDCP’s five Cinematheques in Iloilo, Davao, Nabunturan, Baguio and Manila and a teaser for the upcoming annual film industry conference, the International Film Industry Conference (IFIC) from September 16 to 19 were highlighted during the program.

FDCP announced the 24 official participants and projects for Full Circle Lab (FCL) Philippines 2021 to be held on September 20 to October 1 is a capacitybuilding program, led by international industry experts, that aims to support Filipino and Southeast Asian filmmakers in enhancing their projects to become globally competitive.

FDCP Chairperson Liza Dino-Seguerra FDCP, in partnership with the International Silent Film Festival Manila (ISFFM), also announced its call for entries for #FutureSilentFilmmaker Viral Video Challenge, a 1-minute silent short film open to Filipino amateaur filmmakers aged 16 and below. Entries posted on TikTok and Instagram from September 1 to November 15, 2020 will be eligible.

The first day of the Philippine Film Industry Month also kicked off with the FDCP’s partnership with the Civil Service Commission for the Pamanang Lingkod Bayani screenings of “Ang Turkey Man Ay Pabo Rin” by Randolph Longjas and the restored versions of “Bata Bata Paano Ka Ginawa” and “Dekada ’70” by Chito S. Roño at the FDCP Channel from September 1 to 12.

For more updates,visit: https://www. fdcp.ph/https://www.fdcp.ph/ or follow social media accounts:Twitter: bit.ly/3tTfkBQ and Instagram: bit.ly/2ZfocDP

MONKI EXPANDS ITS ONLINE PRESENCE TO SOUTH-EAST ASIA. In success of the brand's already existing six stores in Malaysia and two in the Philippines, the Swedish fashion brand is thrilled to now expand their online offering to Zalora. The brand aims to inspire everyone to express their own unique style and feel worthy just the way they are. Their mission is to empower young women across the globe to salute sisterhood while being brave, friendly and kind to the planet along the way. Inspired by Asian-street style meets Scandi-cool fashion, the customers can expect on-trend collections with conscious materials in mind. Like the brands latest denim campaign featuring new jeans styles in bold prints, all made from organic cotton. Everything needed to complete any look – from the ultimate wardrobe essentials to stand-out accessories — Monki will be available on Zalora from late September in the Philippines, followed by Malaysia and Singapore later this fall.

Subway offers Spicy Buffalo Chicken

F

OR a limited time only from September 1 to November 16, 2021, Subway is bringing in an adventurous and affordable menu to spice up your day with their Spicy Buffalo Chicken. Escape the usual and boring with this tasteful recipe that’ll surely satisfy your cravings at home or at work.

Enjoy the week by getting your chicken fix-without ever getting your hands dirty. The Spicy Buffalo Chicken is topped with everyone’s favorite hot sauce and zesty ranch along with some lettuce, tomatoes and cheese.

The Subway Spicy Buffalo Chicken ala carte prices start from Php 125 for 6-inch, Php 240 for a footlong bread, or choose to upgrade it to a 10-inch wrap for only Php 135. Sub lovers can also add Php 70 to make it a meal with a cookie and 16oz drink.

Subway also offers regular meals

with the Spicy Buffalo Chicken where customers can enjoy it with a 22oz drink and 2 cookies for only Php 210 for the 6-inch sub, Php 325 for the footlong sub, and Php 220 for the 10-inch wrap.

For delivery orders, the Spicy Buffalo Chicken ala carte prices start from Php 152.50 for the 6-inch, Php 292.80 for the footlong, and Php 164.70 for the 10inch wrap. The regular meals with the 22oz drink and 2 cookies starts at Php 256.20 for the 6-inch sub, Php 396.50 for the footlong, and Php 268.40 for the 10-inch wrap.

This is valid for dine-in and takeout transactions. Subway cares about your health and safety during this pandemic, this new item in the menu is available for delivery via Facebook Messenger BOTTY www.m.me/SubwayPhilippines or via GrabFood. You can also do a takeout from any Subway branch near you.

Marketing BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Monday, September 13, 2021 B7

Public Relations finds its groove during Covid (D.C.) pandemic

PR Matters

By Ron F. Jabal, APR

T

HE globa l hea lt h cr isis brought about by Covid-19 has moved people to think B.C. is actually Before Covid and A.C. is After Covid. The impact is so huge that all facets of human lives have been and are still being upended—prompting scholars to term the pandemic’s effect as paradigm shifts of seismic proportions to be felt in generations to come. And the world and ways of work in Public Relations has not been spared because PR is being reshaped by what’s happening in D.C. i.e. During Covid.

Because of the overwhelming negative impact of Covid-19 on businesses, marketing budgets have been and are still being cut.

Executives are finding ways to rethink and rejig limited budget to stay afloat—hoping to maintain and regain lost consumers and stakeholders. I have heard colleagues in the creative industry reel in pain due to reduced gross billings. Many clients had to rethink big ticket promotional and advertising campaigns to conserve cash.

In the midst of gloom, some silver lining—especially for PR. Talking with some agency owners and executives of in-house PR departments, there seems to be a renewed recognition of the value of Public Relations. Based

Film Review: ‘Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba the Movie: Mugen Train’ continues the thrills of the anime and elevates to the next level

MANILA, PHILIPPINES—In 2019, there was perhaps no more popular new anime series than Kimetsu no Yaiba. Literally translated to “Blade of Demon Destruction” but titled Demon Slayer for Englishspeaking audiences, the anime was an adaptation of the manga series written and vibrantly illustrated by Koyoharu Gotouge with animation provided by animation studio Ufotable. So popular was the 26-episode first season that the series was not only renewed for a second season, the story was set to continue in a feature film. And not even a pandemic would stop “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no

on their experiences (which is also our experience in our agency, PAGEONE Group), PR plays a critical role in managing the crisis. Both in-house PR departments and agencies are proving their worth of salt to businesses—working around the clock adjusting messaging, giving interviews, writing crisis communications plans, and keeping customers and stakeholders at ease. More than ever, PR is in the center of business continuity. Business leaders realize that in times of crisis, communication is key and PR experts help brands keep all stakeholders informed through troubled and uncertain times.

It is an accepted truism that Covid-19 placed a huge dent on the finances of enterprises. We have seen countless businessmen express their frustration, exasperation and worries in various media channels. Industry leaders lament that the pandemic, more than affecting their bottom lines, have also found themselves managing more on their plates — demand ing consumers and stakeholders, increase number of ultra-sensitive publics, more criticisms, and greater attention to their business performance and practices.

In all these difficulties, PR has always been able to navigate these

Yaiba the Movie: Mugen Train” from being a blockbuster.

Set immediately following the events of the first season, Demon Slayer Corps members in training Tanjiro Kamado (Natsuki Hanae), Zenitsu Agatsuma (Hiro Shimono), and Inosuke Hashibira (Yoshitsugu Matsuoka) board a train as ordered by a Kasugai crow to board the Infinity Train. They are joined as always

by Tanjiro’s sister, the demon Nezuko (Akari Kito) and they proceed to meet the Flame Hashira (or pillar), Kyojuro Rengoku (Satoshi Hino).

When the train’s conductor punches their train tickets, each person falls asleep and begins to dream of things that they wish for. This is the ploy of the Emmu (Daisuke Hirakawa), Lower Rank One of the Twelve Kizuki who are all loyal to the thousand-year-old progenitor of demons, Muzan Kibutsuji. Emmu entices four passengers suffering from severe insomnia to enter the “Demon Slayers” dreams and destroy their spiritual cores to ensure they never wake. In exchange, Emmu will give them peaceful sleep.

As they dream and see what their innermost desires are, each sees what life

complex and troubled waters, And it looks like PR has played well its role in helping companies prepare and survive this multi-generational crisis of a lifetime.

Covid-19 has confirmed that PR is not just fluff as others often want to frame it. During the pandemic, PR executives and agency leaders have proven that PR builds and strengthens relationships. PR has been successful in risk communication, enabling pertinent parties and agencies to work freer and smoother in managing the pandemic. We see PR’s hand in the coming together of government agencies and local government units to design and deploy strategies that will keep all healthy and safe. We see PR’s role in keeping the bridge between companies and its stakeholders and consumers to achieve mutually beneficial and value-increasing projects even during crisis.

On top of its role as relationship builders, PR also came out on top as trust-builder and promoter when the crisis threatened to erode the bond between businesses and their external and internal stakeholders. There have been surveys and studies that show people expect brands to do more for society during the pandemic.

This means, brand and businesses should be part of the solutions to

could have been or could be for them.

Nezuko crawls out of the box that Tanjiro keeps her in and, seeing her brother sleeping blissfully, attempts to wake him through their filial bond. Tanjiro, Zenitsu, and Inosuke will have to overcome their fantasies to return to reality and stop the demon even as Rengoku comes to grips with his strained relationship with his own father.

The beauty of Ufotable continuing to animate this film like they did with the series is that the art remains consistent in the transition and everybody looks like they did from TV. The character of Rengoku the Flame Hashira was merely in the background during the end of Season One, but this striking design and his flame abilities were hinted enough to make him appealing to viewers and fans alike.

Just as the first episode of Kimetsu no Yaiba was heartbreaking when Tanjiro returned home to see his mother and four siblings murdered while Nezuko had been turned into a demon, Tanjiro’s dream here was just as heartbreaking. Seeing his mother and siblings alive, with Nezuko fully human, are everything Tanjiro has yearned for and it was easy to empathize

societal problems and care more about the public interest. Today, we see PR is successfully steering brand communications to more sustainability engagements and compassion communication. And I believe this behavior generates positive dividends for organizations. This is very evident when we see leading local and multinational companies reap praises and establish better patronage of their brands when executives exercise strong benevolent leadership during this time.

I n ot her word s, PR kee ps brands and companies relevant even when the pandemic is wreaking havoc in our economy, even without huge budgets. We are excellent listeners to consumers’ demands and excellent responders by providing and communicating products and services that are attuned to consumer needs. And in our valiant efforts to keep companies and brands relevant, PR manifests that practitioners and professionals are brave. We fight fights to keep the bond between our companies and partners alive despite some of its flames being extinguished no thanks to the virus.

And as business owners and leaders now realize, it is PR that they need to handhold organizations to adapt to new social reali-

with this dream of his.

It’s no different from the trope of “what if?” situations used in movies and TV series in the past, presenting an idyllic scenario that the protagonist wants most but knows cannot be real. While Zenitsu’s dream just has him being close to Nezuko and Inosuke gets to order his friends around, Tanjiro’s vision of what could have been really tests his resolve to return to reality.

In the case of Rengoku, so full of bluster and confidence with his bright hair and flame breathing abilities, he only wishes to have his father Shinjuro (Rikiya Koyama) be proud of him like he used to be before his mother died. His dream with his brother Senjuro (Junya Enoki) is sad although he encourages Senjuro by saying that things are not as bad as they seem.

The animation of “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba the Movie: Mugen Train” is as good, if not better than the series, perhaps owing to a bigger allocated to it after the success of that first season. The battles are as fluid and energetic as ever with Rengoku’s fire breathing technique, Tanjiro’s water breathing, and the malevolence of Emmu and Akaza, the Upper

ties. It is PR that executives turn to, to manage uncomfortable issues that may been disturbed by the pernicious effects of the pandemic such as diversity and inclusion, pay inequalities, health-care benefits. housing facilities and transportation and Internet allowances, among others. Thus, in a lot of soul-searching currently being done by organizations, PR plays a critical role. More and more businessmen are realizing they need the resilient PR to overcome the humps and maintain stability.

Businesses and brands are expressing a better appreciation of PR , along with its counterparts in human resources, because of its primordial role in employee engagement. When management needs to keep employees regularly updated and safe, PR through its internal communications specialists, are indispensable staples.

Ultimately, PR professionals are well placed to help businesses and brands become more authentic. Studies show 71 percent of consumers are put off when they perceive that a brand is putting profit over people. And when this perception persists, consumers lose trust in that brand forever.

We see how the pandemic saw a huge increase in consumers and stakeholders looking deeply into the company's supply chains.

Given the increased amount of interest and scrutiny, business must be authentic and transparent. And this can only be done with sound, sincere communication through PR. These days, consumers can sniff out a fake from the real ones; hence, PR is truly finding its groove D.C. PR Matters is a roundtable column by members of the local chapter of the United Kingdom-based International Public Relations Association (Ipra), the world’s premier association for senior communications professionals around the world. Ron Jabal is the CEO of the multi-awarded PAGEONE Group and a member of IPRA International.

PR Matters is devoting a special column each month to answer our readers’ questions about public relations. Please send your questions or comments to askipraphil@ gmail.com.

Moon Three (Akira Ishida) on full display.

Fans of Kimetsu no Yaiba get the continuation of the story that started in Season One, but newcomers to the title can still enjoy this movie as a stand-alone story even as it leads to Season Two. Although it was released in Japan in October of last year in the middle of the pandemic, it eventually grossed over $500 million worldwide, the highest grossing film of 2020 hands down.

“Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba the Movie: Mugen Train” is not just the highest-grossing anime of all time, it is the highest-grossing Japanese film of all time. In both instances, it topped Hayao Miyazaki’s critically acclaimed Spirited Away from 2001, a film that won Best Animated Feature at the 75th Academy Awards.

So rich and varied is anime that although this film and Spirited Away are such different pieces covering different genres, they are both immensely popular both inside Japan and overseas.

“Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba the Movie: Mugen Train” is currently streaming on Viu and begins streaming on Netflix Philippines on September 11, 2021.

Sports

New York’s strength makes me stronger –Leylah

BusinessMirror

N

EW YORK—Leylah Fernandez had been listening to New Yorkers, and now she wanted them to hear her.

They had wildly supported her across two memorable weeks of tennis, a time she had called “magical.”

And when it was over, on the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, Fernandez needed them to know that New York’s strength had made her stronger.

So when it appeared her interview on the court was complete after her 6-4, 6-3 loss to Emma Raducanu on Saturday in the US Open women’s final, Fernandez took the microphone back for another comment.

“I know on this day it was especially hard for New York and everyone around the United States,” Fernandez said. “I just want to say that I hope I can be as strong and as resilient as New York has been the last 20 years.”

Fernandez explained the reason for her remarks at a press conference later.

“Just having them here, happy, lively, just going back to the way they were, having my back during these tough moments, has made me stronger and has made me believe in myself a lot more,” she said.

Fernandez turned 19 this week, born just shy of a year after the 2001 attacks. She has seen movies about 9/11 and asked her parents, who live with her in Florida after the family moved from Canada, to tell her more.

“Obviously, I don’t know much about what really happened,” Fernandez said. “But with the few information that I do have, I know that New York has suffered a lot the past years when it did happen. I just wanted to let them know that they’re so strong, they’re so resilient. They’re just incredible.”

And they loved watching Fernandez.

Her big left-handed strokes had often been matched by a smile just as big during her run of upsets. She would wave her arms to encourage the fans—who couldn’t attend the tournament last year because of the coronavirus pandemic—to cheer louder, which she said was uncharacteristic of the way she had always played before.

“Usually when I was younger, I’d try to be as calm as possible, just like [Roger[ Federer,” Fernandez said. “I’m glad that I’ve discovered that of myself, that I play a lot better when I’m more— not motivated, but when I’m more outgoing and when I’m using the crowd to my advantage.”

B8

| Monday, September 13, 2021 mirror_sports@yahoo.com.ph Editor: Jun Lomibao

N RADUCANU, 18,

TAKE this from 19-year-old Leylah Fernandez: I hope I can be as strong and as resilient as New York has been the last 20 years. TROI SANTOS

That helped the 73rd-ranked Fernandez knock off defending champion Naomi Osaka in the third round, followed by 2016 champion Angelique Kerber.

Then it was Elina Svitolina and Aryna Sabalenka, giving her three victories over top-five opponents.

But all those matches went three sets and may have left Fernandez lacking the energy to mount another comeback against Raducanu, who won every match in straight sets. Fernandez spent five more hours on the court in the tournament.

She tried, tough. Down 5-2 in the second set, Fernandez saved a couple match points and then held a couple break points in the next game before Raducanu finished her off.

“Of course Leylah is always going to play great tennis and always going to fight,” Raducanu said. “That’s just the competitor that she is.”

It wasn’t good enough, but Fernandez stuck to her previous description of her time in New York.

“Yes,” she said, “it’s definitely magical.” AP

Romero honors Diaz, Tokyo medalists

EW YORK— British teenager Emma Raducanu arrived in New York last month with a ranking of 150th, just one Grand Slam appearance to her name and a flight booked to head out of town after the US Open’s preliminary rounds in case she failed to win her way into the main tournament.

And there she was in Arthur Ashe Stadium on Saturday, cradling the silver trophy to complete an unlikely—indeed, unprecedented— and surprisingly dominant journey from qualifier to major champion by beating Filipino-Canadian teenager Leylah Fernandez 6-4, 6-3 in the final.

“You say, ‘I want to win a Grand Slam.’ But to have the belief I did, and actually executing, winning a Grand Slam,” Raducanu said, “I can’t believe it!”

Who could?

It’s all so improbable.

Until three months ago, she had never played in a professional tour-level event, in part because she took 18 months for a combination

By Josef Ramos

E

RNEST “JOHN” OBIENA cleared 5.93 meters not only to win gold at the 17th Golden Roof Challenge in Austria on Sunday but to shatter the Asian pole vault record that an athlete from Kazakhstan set before the 25-year-old Tokyo Olympian was born.

Obiena set the continental bar higher at the FlySwat Stadium in Innsbruck, breaking Kazakh Igor Potapovich’s record of 5.92 meters he set in Dijon, France, in June 13, 1992.

Obiena was born November 17, 1995.

“It’s the start of his journey to

SPEAKER Mikee Romero (center) of 1Pacman Partylist poses with Tokyo Games heroes (from left) Eumir Felix Marcial, Hidilyn Diaz, Nesthy Petecio and Carlo Paalam.

Franco’s Journey DO you think that our lives are pre-ordained?

Maybe. Maybe not.

But sometimes, life places stepping stones on our path. It is up to us to understand them and to take them and see where it goes.

It is amazing when you connect the dots of Franco Finn’s life and where it has led him today as the Golden State Warriors’ Hype Man for the last 20 years, a media person, a professional host, and a marketing person.

Franco is a Bay Area born and raised FilipinoAmerican who inherited a love of sports from his

of reasons: the pandemic and her parents’ insistence that she complete her high school education.

“My dad is definitely very tough to please,” the 18-year-old Raducanu said with a smile Saturday evening.

“But I managed to today.”

She is the first female qualifier to reach a Grand Slam final, let alone win one. She captured 10 matches in a row at Flushing Meadows—three in qualifying, seven in the main draw—and is the first woman to win the US Open title without dropping a set since Serena Williams in 2014.

Raducanu, who was born in Toronto and moved to England with her family at age 2, also is the first British woman to win a Grand Slam singles trophy since Virginia Wade at Wimbledon in 1977. Queen Elizabeth II sent a congratulatory note, hailing the victory as a “remarkable achievement at such a young age.”

There were more firsts, too, emblematic of what a rapid rise this was. For example: Raducanu is the youngest female Grand Slam champion since Maria Sharapova was 17 at Wimbledon in 2004.

This was the first major final between two teens since Williams, 17, beat Martina Hingis, 18, at the 1999 US Open—the first between two unseeded women in the professional

era, which began in 1968.

Fernandez, whose 19th birthday was Monday and who is ranked 73rd, was asked during a pre-match interview in the hallway that leads from the locker room to the court entrance what she expected Saturday’s greatest challenge to be.

“Honestly,” she responded, “I don’t know.”

Fair. Neither she nor Raducanu could have.

This was only Fernandez’s seventh major tournament; she hadn’t made it past the third round before.

As tears welled in her eyes after the final, she told the Arthur Ashe Stadium crowd: “I hope to be back here in the finals and this time with a trophy—the right one.”

Moments later, she asked for the microphone so she could address the 23,703 spectators again on the anniversary of 9-11.

“I just want to say that I hope I can be as strong and as resilient as New York has been the last 20 years,” said Fernandez, born a year before the terrorist attacks. “Thank you for always having my back. Thank you for cheering for me.”

OBIENA BREAKS ASIAN RECORD

T

HE rewards—monetary or in kind—came in great abundance for weightlifting gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz and her fellow Tokyo Olympics heroes, but Deputy Speaker Mikee Romero (1Pacman Partylist) said they fully deserve the blessings.

“The rewards they have received and to be received were for their blood, sweat and tears during their Spartan-like training up to the tournament proper in Tokyo so it’s right and just for them to receive such abundance,” said Romero during a recent House of Representatives ceremony where Diaz and boxers Nesthy Petecio, Carlo Paalam, and Eumir Marcial were honored.

TOPS U.S. OPEN

qualify for the Paris Olympics in 2024. All of these tournaments are part of his journey,” Obiena’s father Emerson told BusinessMirror on Sunday.

“I’m really happy with his latest accomplishment.”

Hard work indeed for the younger Obiena as he developed a blister on his right palm in setting the new Asian standard with a brand new 5.2-meter USC pole.

“That 28-year-old record is older with EJ,” said the elder Obiena, who bared that he got to compete with Potapovich, but admitted the Kazakh was “way, way up there” in terms of his level.

“We competed together at

“For almost a month, the Tokyo Games heroes and other members of Team Philippines made us extremely proud to be Filipinos,” Romero said. “Time and again, they displayed the indomitable Filipino spirit.”

Besides the additional P3 million cash she received from a “pass the hat” drive initiated by House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco, Romero and other key leaders of the House, Diaz was conferred the first Congressional Medal of Excellence, an award given solely for Filipino athletes who win a gold medal in the Olympics.

Silver medalists Petecio and Paalam and bronze winner Marcial were conferred the

mother, Angeles, who migrated to the United States in the 1970s.

“My mom is a fan of all Bay Area sports teams from the 49ers to the Giants to the Warriors. She even saw the very first championship team of the Warriors that featured Rick Barry!” crowed Franco.

As for his getting into his first taste working a microphone...that came from his step-father, George Finn. “He was my first talent agent because one day, he got me to work the lectern at St. Anne’s Church which was next to my house where I read the readings of the day. I took it so seriously that I wanted to bring the Lord’s Words to life.”

After that first time he read the Scriptures in Mass, this elderly church goer made a beeline towards him.

“Oh, no, she’s coming for me. Oh, boy. I must have messed up,” young Franco thought to himself.

Except the lady praised him because she thought that through Franco’s manner of reading and intonation, the words came really alive to her. “Young man, you brought the Scripture to life like I have never heard before. You can do every Sunday and I will be here to hear you. I wish you the best for your career.”

“I think that is when I first thought, ‘Hey, maybe I have a career in public speaking.’”

Also as a youngster, Franco went to school in France for a spell. There he added French as a third language

the 1998 Asian Championship in Fukuoka, Japan—he won the gold, I placed sixth,” he said.

Obiena almost fumbled twice, but shocked the crowd when he shattered the Asian record in his last jump under ideal conditions with the sun just setting in the horizon. He also surpassed his personal best 5.91 meters he achieved at the Paris Wanda Diamond League last August 31.

American Matt Ludwig claimed silver with 5.60 meters with Turkish Ersu Sasma also tallying 5.60 meters which he cleared in two attempts to settle for the bronze.

Obiena will wrap up his European sortie at the International Stadionfest in Berlin, Germany, on Monday.

Congressional Medal of Distinction.

“I am immensely humbled to have received the Congressional Medal of Distinction, an award that would represent our achievements in the field of sports. I greatly appreciate this honorable gesture from our House of Representatives, specifically Speaker Lord Allan Velasco and Deputy Speaker Mikee Romero. I hope this will serve as an inspiration to all the youths of our country,” Marcial said in his Facebook post.

Petecio, who gamely posed with several lawmakers and their staff, and Paalam also received P2 million each while Marcial got P1 million.

(after English and Filipino) and even learned a fourth…

Spanish.

“I’m a Filipino-American man with an Irish name who can speak four languages,” he quipped. “It sure helps in communicating with people.”

Communications.

When Finn went off to college in nearby Santa Clara University, he first signed on as an Engineering major.

That all changed when a friend brought him along to the communications department’s television studio. One look, and Franco knew he where his career lay. He made the switch.

After graduation in 1999, Finn worked for Radio Disney in San Francisco and his talent for entertainment and hosting became apparent that he moved on to hosting major Disney events like meet and greets and concerts.

It was during a Lizzie Maguire (former teen star Hilary Duff) concert in Oakland where he was asked to get the crowd hyped up for about 20 minutes before Duff hit the stage (there was no opening act).

Recounted Franco, “The producer of the show went up to me and said, ‘This is our first concert of the tour.

Hype them up. Make up some stuff. Talk to them for 20 minutes. Here’s the microphone. Good luck.”

Thought Franco, “What do I say for 20 minutes? I don’t know what I did, but I was out of breath. But the

Both she and Raducanu displayed the poise and shotmaking of veterans at the US Open—not two relative newcomers whose previous head-to-head match came in the second round of the Wimbledon juniors event just three years ago. AP EMMA RADUCANU: I can’t believe it! AP

Elasto Painters down Beermen

R

EY NAMBATAC nailed a onehanded floater against the outstretched arms of three defenders to lift Rain or Shine past San Miguel Beer, 95-93, on Sunday in the Philippine Basketball Association Philippine Cup at the Don Honorio Ventura State University gym in Bacolor, Pampanga.

Nambatac’s game-winner saved rookie Leonard Santillan’s 21-points and five-rebound production as well as JV Mocon’s double-double of 18 points and 12 rebounds that went with four assists that powered the Elasto Painters to their sixth win against fourth losses.

The victory also intensified Rain or Shine’s quarterfinals campaign.

“We relied on Rey’s instincts and he made that game-winning basket for us,” Rain or Shine Coach Chris Gavina said. “But it would take a collective effort to beat a grizzled champion San Miguel Beer…and we pulled it out.”

Ahead 89-93 with 52.2 seconds to go, June Mar Fajardo completed two free throws and CJ Perez completed a steal with in a game-tying layup at 93all with 12 seconds remaining.

After a time out, Nambatac got the ball to Beau Belga and drove against Perez, Marcio Lassiter and Mo Tautuaa for the go ahead basket with 2.5 ticks left. The Beermen fell to 5-3 won-lost. Josef Ramos

Warriors had their kids in the audience and they gave me their cards and said they would want to see me in the arena for the next season.”

And the rest is history.

How many people get to say they were at one point in their life the opening act of Hilary Duff?

How many people who grew up to be fans of the Golden State Warriors as a kid and now work their game’s as their Hype Man? How many people get to do special events for the San Francisco Giants, do events with Manny Pacquiao in the Bay Area? Host auctions? Work for Alaska Airlines and even do television commercials?

How many non-basketball people get to say they have a National Basketball Association championship ring?

Yes, as a member of the Warriors organization, he was also give his own championship rings although they are smaller than what the players wear.

Even so, it is a blessing.

“Not a day goes by where I don’t pinch myself and ask, ‘is this really happening?’” summed up Finn.

Yes, it is happening because every step of the way was an opportunity. Franco Finn took everything and ran with it.

And now his mom has gotten to see the Warriors win even more championships. What makes it even more special is, her son is a part of it.