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SMC, gov’t forge biggest CSR collab to clean up, rehab Luzon rivers

Experience Super -Sized Fun at SM’s 65th Anniversary

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OCTOBER 18 - 24, 2023

VOL. II, NO. 13H

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THE PHILIPPINES

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Israel-Hamas war put P7.4B remittances of OFWs at risk

Bishop hits return of STL in NegrosOr

DUMAGUETE City -- A Catholic bishop in the central Philippines has criticized the impending resurgence of small-town lottery (STL) operations in Negros Oriental. Bishop Julito Cortes of Dumaguete is opposing the return of the state-run local lottery due to its “harmful effects” and potential “erosion of the moral fiber of our people.” “We humbly appeal to our provincial and local officials to rethink approval of STL applications in the province,” Cortes said. “STL and similar games encourage especially the poor to rely Turn to page A4

THE Philippines risks losing some P7.4 billion in cash remittances from thousands of migrant Filipino workers, mostly caregivers and private duty nurses, in the event of an escalation in the war between Israel and the Islamic Resistance Movement, or Hamas. “Our best estimate is that Filipino workers in Israel send to their families here in the Philippines around $131 million (or P7.4 billion) in cash transfers on an annual basis,” Surigao del Sur Rep. Johnny Pimentel said on Monday. “The ballpark figure covers dollars coursed through bank as well as non-bank remittance channels,” Pimentel said. Turn to page A4

p TEAMWORK. THE success of the implementationm of the Department of Health’s campaign ‘Chikiting Ligtas’ is anchored on the teamwork of the vaccination team from the City Health Office, barangay functionaries and the citizens themselves. During the vaccination drive in Brgy. Poblacion 24, Batangas City’s most populous urban village, Punumbrangay Emma A. Tumambing personally assisted the mothers in having their kids got the jab.| Photo courtesy of Palakat

Doctors Without Borders calls on the Israeli authorities to show humanity

p PROMO. A Mindanaoan solon said that exempting public school teachers from paying taxes on their salaries may entice bright and most qualified teachers to consider teaching in public schools. | Photo file of PNA

Tax exemption for public school teachers sought MANILA – A lawmaker is proposing the grant of tax exemption to public school teachers as a non-wage benefit. In a statement issued on Tuesday, Cagayan de Oro City Rep. Rufus Rodriguez said it is crucial that the government adequately compensate teachers so that the education sector could attract the most qualified individuals.

“To do this, the government must provide compensation and benefits, whether monetary or otherwise, commensurate to the work they perform and the contribution they make to society,” Rodriguez said. He pointed out that teachers are among the lowest-paid government workers despite the importance of their work.

Turn to page A4

THE Department of Health (DOH) in Calabarzon has given itself a pat on the back for its role in a recently concluded immunization effort that has successfully vaccinated over a million children against potentially serious diseases threatening newborns, toddlers and preschoolers. Despite Israeli announcements suggesting that there are safe areas for the population trapped in the Gaza Strip, they are in fact exposed to bombardment throughout all the territory, including in the south, where tens of thousands of people have fled following the ultimatum. As the Israeli army has been bombarding the Gaza Strip without restraint for a week, we are calling for the most elementary humanity to be shown. The injunction to nearly 1.1 million people to move in a few hours to an already overpopulated territory with precarious access to food, water and healthcare is as absurd as it is

intolerable. Doctors Without Borders teams are witnessing the fact that drinking water is becoming scarce in the south of the Gaza Strip and the difficulty of obtaining it is adding to the dis-

tress of the population. Doctors Without Borders urgently calls for the restoration of sufficient and immediate access to drinking water for the population of the Gaza Strip. Turn to page A4

OCTOBER 18 - 24, 2023

ACROSS THE NATION

KABAYAN NEWSWEEKLY

PH Army highlights civilian support in upholding peace with ‘October Peace’ TANAY, Rizal -- THE 2nd Infantry Division (2ID) of the Philippine Army has opened its doors to the public for the launch of October Peace 2023, as it continues to establish stronger ties with the civilian community. Launched by the 2ID and its Multi-Sectoral Advisory Board (MSAB), which comprises representatives from the private and government sectors, October Peace highlights the importance of unity between the Armed Forces and the community in maintaining peace and prosperity. “It was the members of the 2ID Multi-Sectoral Advisory Board who pushed us to have this [October Peace] to promote the 2nd Infantry Division, not just as a camp but also a home for the people of Tanay and its nearby provinces.” said Major General Roberto Capulong, Commander of the 2nd Infantry Division. The 20-day celebration puts together activities showcasing the products and talents found in the communities within their respective areas of responsibility, particularly in Laguna, Quezon province, and Mindoro provinces. Former rebels were also given a chance by the 2ID to partake in the event as an exhibitor for the Peace Trade Fair as a way to provide additional livelihood for their daily needs. “The Peace Fair empow-

ers the People’s Organizations in the different municipalities, former rebel groups, and Indigenous Peoples groups to showcase their livelihood products that are sold.” said Major Michael Malacad, the unit’s Deputy G7. Other events and attractions staged are PeaceTahan sa Kampo Capinpin, a motor show, evening peace entertainment, and an exhibit where visitors can enter and take photos with Army equipment and vehicles. Agustiniana Avelino, MSAB chairperson, believes that October Peace allows the Philippine Army to highlight its genuine peacekeeping efforts at the grassroots level. “Since the Army needs engagement with the community to make them more loveable to the public, we created activities like October Peace. Initially we named it Octoberfest, but later on changed it into October Peace since promoting peace is the main objective of our Army.” “As the Philippine Army continues to find ways to make their services more meaningful to the public, we as a board wanted to help. We wanted to launch activities and projects where people can be engaged to see that we [civilians] can also work with the soldiers towards peace,” Avelino said.| - PB/PIA4A

BUTUAN CITY – Strong linkages and connectivity are vital components to promote and develop the Indigenous Peoples (IP) communities, an official said Monday. Lawyer Fritzie Lynne Sumando, legal officer of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples-Caraga (NCIP-13), said most of the IP communities in the region now have wider access to various

livelihood programs and projects. “The IP mandatory representatives (IPMRs) in the provincial, municipal, and barangay levels play vital roles in strengthening the connectivity and linkages of our communities to support groups and institutions in the government,” Sumando said in a phone interview. She cited a series of liveli-

PARTNERSHIP. (L-R) 2nd Infantry Division Commander, Major General Roberto Capulong, Philippine Information Agency Calabarzon Director Maria Cristina Arzadon, 2ID Multi Sectoral Advisory Board (MSAB) Chair Agustiniana Avelino, Rizal 2nd District Board Member Hector Robles, and MSAB Resource Generation Committee chair Elmer Espiritu led the opening of the Octoberpeace at the Camp General Mateo Capinpin in Tanay, Rizal.| MBL/PIA4A

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DA turns over P5.5M-worth INSPIRE project to remote village in Abra

VILLAVICIOSA, Abra -- A remote multi-purpose cooperative in Villaviciosa received a P5.5-million worth of project under the Integrated National Swine Production Initiatives for Recovery and Expansion (INSPIRE) program of the Department of Agriculture-Cordillera(DA-CAR). The project composed of newly constructed pig pens, livestock and grower feeds

were officially handed to the Tamac Multipurpose Cooperative on October 12, 2023, in the far flung barangay of Tamac, a three- hour travel from the capital town of Bangued. DA-CAR Chief of Agricultural Engineering Division Salvador Filemon, DA-CAR Regulations Chief Ruben Dulagan, Provincial Veterinarian Jomar Sales, Villaviciosa Mayor Jose Lagen Jr. and Vice Mayor Mar-

Linkages key to progress of Caraga IP communities hood training conducted for IP women groups in Agusan del Norte. “These linkage-building activities are among the functions of our IPMRs, aside from their main responsibility of crafting local ordinances and resolutions that pertain to the welfare of the IPs in their localities,” Sumando said. Most of the IP areas in the region have potential for

tourism activities, which “will drive more opportunities for our people, including the tourism potentials within their domains,” she added. Sumando said NCIP-13, with the support of the IPMRs, is coordinating with the local tourism councils to tap such potentials without compromising the natural environment and habitats of ancestral lands. On Monday, the NCIP-13 joined the different tribes in the region in opening the 2023 IP Month celebration at the provincial capitol of Agusan del Norte here. This year’s celebration emphasizes the development of the resources of IP areas, while recognizing the connection between the IPs and their ancestral lands through the promotion of sustainable land management practices, economic empowerment, and the preservation of their cultural practices. The region has six major IP groups -- Manobo, Mamanwa, Mandaya, Higaonon, Banwaon, and Talaandig - located in the provin-

IP MONTH. The 2023 Indigenous Peoples (IP) Month in the Caraga Region opens with a ritual performed at the Agusan del Norte capitol in Butuan City, Agusan del Norte on Monday (Oct. 16, 2023). This year’s celebration focuses on the promotion and development of ancestral domains and resources.| Photo courtesy of NCIP-13

jorie Lagen led the turnover ceremony. Dr. Rosemarie Tesoro, DA Agriculture Program Coordinating Officer of Abra, said that P4.9M of the total fund for the project was used for the construction of pig pens while about P600,00 was used for the procurement of livestock and grower feeds. Tamac Multipurpose Cooperative President Margarita Gamileng Agyapas expressed gratitude to the program implementers for pushing through the project despite the distant location. “Ti sibubukel nga coop ti Tamac, agyaman kami unay ta uray adayo ditoy lugarmi, naanos kayo nga immay nangidanun daytoy nga project ingga ti pannakaleppasna,” she expressed. Mayor Lagen encouraged the coop member-beneficiaries to manage the project earnestly. “This is not just a project but a symbol of love and care from the government for you in the remote places. So, I remind you to manage this also out of love so that it will succeed,” Lagen said. “We hope na magkakaroon na kayo ng enough na supply ng karne dito at ma stabilize ang presyo nito dahil ‘yon ang isa sa mga goal ng INSPIRE program ng DA,” he added. DA’s INSPIRE program focuses on rehabilitation efforts from African swine fever effects thru swine repopulation, and establishments of swine farms and facilities.| JDP/CAGT – PIA CAR, Abra

ces of Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Agusan del Norte, and Agusan del Sur.|- AL/PNA

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NEWS

A3 PCG celebrates 122nd Year of Sailing in Unity and Harmony KABAYAN NEWSWEEKLY

THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) celebrates its 122nd founding anniversary with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr in Port Area Manila today, 17 October 2023. PCG Commandant, CG Admiral Artemio M Abu, said unity and harmony are the catalysts to the PCG’s growth as a humanitarian armed service for the past 122 years. “We owe our growth to the hardworking men and women of the PCG, the PCG Auxiliary, to our partners in the national and local governments, private sector, as well as civil society organizations, that incessantly provided support to the organization through the years. Among them, the Office of the President,” CG Admiral Abu said. During the celebration, the Coast Guard Commandant shared that the Chief Executive’s leadership inspired over 30,000 Coast Guardians to serve the country with utmost dedication. “We have stood our ground in the face of adversity in the West Philippine Sea. We handled positively the provocations, bullying, and harassments of vessels on every re-supply mission to the Philip-

pine Navy’s BRP Sierra Madre anchored at Ayungin Shoal,” CG Admiral Abu expressed. “Our personnel have courageously dismantled the foreign floating barriers, which were illegally installed in the West Philippine Sea. We installed additional navigational buoys, which also serve as markers of Philippine territory,” the Coast Guard Commandant added. Moreover, CG Admiral Abu reported to President Marcos that the PCG successfully responded to over 500 maritime incidents from January to September 2023. He also recognized the sacrifices of four PCG rescuers who went missing in the Cagayan River while underway to conduct search and rescue operations amid Super Typhoon Egay. CG Admiral Abu also acknowledged the selfless efforts of another PCG diver who lost his life while responding to a drowning incident in Lubao, La Union. “We will forever honor the memories of CG Petty Officer Third Class (PO3) Ponciano Nesperos, while we continue to hope as we search for Seaman First Class (SN1) Jaeben Jan Domingo, CG Apprentice

OCTOBER 18 - 24, 2023

COMMITMENT. President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos leads the unveiling of the model of the new vessel for the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG)’s continued upgrading as part of the administration’s commitment to provide modern equipments and continued personnel training to meet the challenges in the West Philippine Sea and for effective search and rescue and disaster response,.| Photo courtesy of the PCG

Seaman (ASN) Lesther Renz Campo, CG ASN Rodel Garado, and CG ASN John Lloyd Rebamontan,” the Coast Guard Commandant added. Meanwhile, he thanked the devoted men and women of the Coast Guard, as well as its partner countries, which extended assistance in addressing the Oriental Mindoro oil spill.

“All these were accomplished through our continuous efforts to improve our ranks. As our numbers improve, so does our competency through the conduct of continuous training, education, and capacity-building assistance from our foreign allies and friends,” CG Admiral Abu noted. To conclude, the Coast Guard Commandant commit-

ted to keeping the PCG a symbol of hope and a source of national pride for Filipinos. “Together, we can achieve great things. Let us all sail together as one. In unity, we create harmony, and in harmony, we deliver excellent, compassionate, and dedicated public service for our fellow Filipinos,” he ended.| - BALIKAS NEWS

34th NSM Opening Ceremony: Promoting Data and Statistics CITY OF CALAMBA, Laguna -THE Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) spearheads the 34th National Statistics Month (NSM) Opening Ceremony in the region held on October 10, 2023, in City of Calamba, Laguna. The theme for this year’s NSM is “Accelerating Progress: Promoting Data and Statistics for Healthy Philippines” which emphasizes the importance of data and statistics in enhancing health outcomes and accelerating the nation’s socioeconomic development with the use of quality health and health-related statistics. Presentations during the NSM Opening centered on the theme with a topic on Mental Health and Statistics presented by Geneva C. Calanog, Outcome Manager, Men-

tal Health Program of Department of Health (DOH) Calabarzon. Nurse Calanog presented some statistics on Mental Health for the region and the need for facilities and personnel to address the increasing cases of individuals who experienced depression among other mental disorders. She also emphasized the need for an efficient and effective information system to have reliable data as basis for their programs. With the Regional Statistical System (RSS), the region can implement an effective statistical development program to address the need for data on mental health. Mr. Ding Martin Bundalian, Licensing Officer III of DOH CALABARZON focused his discussion

on hospital statistics towards a progressive health system. He enumerated the different data/ statistics that can be generated using the DOH system that helps monitor a hospitals operation to improve their facilities and cater to more clients. They also consolidate the data that they use in the development of their health-related programs and projects. Lastly, Ms. Julliene Louise C. Cuartero, Project Development Officer of the National Nutrition Council-CALABARZON presented the Regional Nutrition Situation and Local Nutrition Services. Based on the data that she presented Quezon province had the highest incidence of stunting and wasting in the region, that is why they have specific programs

to address their concerns on nutrition. The event also highlights the awarding ceremony of the winners of the 34th NSM Infographics Making contest for the members of the Regional Statistics Committee (RSC), Most Responsive Establishments, and 33rd NSM Awardees. Ms. Regine Ann F. Dinayco of the Department of Agriculture, Ms. Laarni F. Tolentino of the Department of Information and Communications Technology, and Ms. Revy Ann Grace Z. Jolongbayan of the National Economic and Development Authority were declared as 1st, 2nd, and 3rd placer, respectively for the 34th NSM Infographics Making Contest. The following establishments were given plaque of recognition as Most Responsive Establishments in acknowledgment of their commitment and support to various PSA establishment surveys: Terban Marine Corp., Pilipinas

Kyohritsu, Inc., Ibiden Philippines Inc., Castem Philippines Corp., Taiyo Plastic Corp Of The Phils., Almazora Motors Corp., Fujifilm Optics Philippines, Inc., Telstar Manufacturing Corporation, Sacred Heart College Of Lucena City Inc., Raquel Pawnshop Inc., Cotta Builders Construction & Development Corp., Panasonic Mfg Phils., Inc., Gt Istruktura Corp., and Jennys Garments Inc. Moreover, PSA IV-A expressed sincerest gratitude to different member agencies/ offices of the Regional Statistics Committee. Regional Director Charito C. Armonia of PSA Region IV-A in her message, said that “We (RSS) look forward in working together as we continue to strive in providing relevant and reliable statistics that can help in the formulation of policies, strategies, and decision making of the government towards our goal of a healthier Philippines”.|

- BALIKAS NEWS

550 PCG forces to secure transport of election paraphernalia in Bicol

BE COUNTED. Stakeholders gather for the 34th National Statistics Month (NSM) Opening Ceremony in the region ith the theme “Accelerating Progress: Promoting Data and Statistics for Healthy Philippines”, held in City of Calamba, Laguna on October 10, 2023.| Photo courtesy of PSA-CALABARZON

AT least 550 personnel of the Coast Guard District Bicol (CGD-Bicol) will secure the transport of Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) paraphernalia to different island provinces and towns in the region. Ensign Dwan Grace Detoyato, CGD-Bicol spokesperson, said some of the personnel will come from the main headquarters in Legazpi City. “They will assist the Commission on Elections (Comelec) and other concerned agen-

cies in the different precincts during election day,” Detoyato said in an interview on Tuesday. She said land and water assets of the CGD-Bicol will also be on standby during the Oct. 19 to 28 campaign period, in other election-related activities and even after the polls. “We will also ensure the safety of the passengers who are expected to return to their respective provinces to participate in the local elections,” Detoyato said.| - PNA/PR

NEWS

OCTOBER 18 - 24, 2023

From page A1

Israel-Hamas war put P7.4B remittances of OFWs at risk The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) earlier reported that three Filipinos workers – a 33-year-old female nurse from Pangasinan, a 42-year-old male caregiver from Pampanga, and a 49-year-old female caregiver from Negros Occidental – have been killed in Hamas attacks against Israel. Pimentel offered condolences to the families of the three Filipinos. “Our hearts go out to their loved ones,” Pimentel said. The compulsory repatriation of Filipinos in Israel “is still not being recommended” despite the three deaths, according to the Philippine Embassy in Tel Aviv. The DFA has so far raised Alert Level 2 in

Israel, which means that the non-essential movement of Filipinos there is restricted, and that there will be no fresh deployments of workers to that country. The DFA has four alert levels – Alert Level 1 or the precautionary phase, Alert Level 2 or restriction phase, Alert Level 3 or voluntary repatriation phase, and Alert Level 4 for mandatory evacuation or repatriation. Alert Level 4 is issued when the host country is experiencing “large-scale internal conflict or fullblown external attack.” He said Taal Volcano is “very clear” and its main crater is “very visible” on Monday because the situation was windy, causing vog to disperse easily.| - BALIKAS NEWS

From page A1

Tax exemption for public school teachers sought

According to data from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), there are about 880,000 public school teachers in the country. Citing the same data, he said the teacher-to-student/pupil ratio is 1:29 in the elementary level, 1:25 in high school, and 1:29 in senior high school. “This highlights the difficulties our teachers face in providing quality education to our students,” he said. Rodriguez said under House Bill 9106, all salaries, wages, allowances, and benefits granted to public school teachers, including those in state colleges and universities at all levels, shall be exempted from the withholding taxes as provided for by pertinent laws, rules, and regulations on withholding taxes. The commissioner of the Bureau of Internal Revenue shall be mandated to implement the provi-

sions of the proposed law, if and when it is enacted. The bill also provides that “all laws, decrees, executive orders, letters of instruction, letters of implementation, rules and regulations, and other issuances inconsistent with any provision of this Act are hereby repealed, modified, superseded, or amended accordingly.” Rodriguez said the entry-level salary in the public education sector is Salary Grade 11, or PHP27,000 for Step 1. This salary grade pays up to PHP29,075 (Step 8), depending on the holder’s length of service. Under the law, in addition to their monthly compensation, all government personnel are entitled to a mid-year pay equivalent to a onemonth salary and a yearend bonus, which is also equivalent to a one-month salary, plus a PHP5,000 cash gift.| -

FILANE

MIKEE

CERVANTES,

PNA

From page A1

Doctors Without Borders calls on the Israeli authorities to show humanity A humanitarian corridor of a few hours decreed today by the Israeli authorities in the north of Gaza has just expired. We are extremely worried about the fate of those who will not be able to move, such as the wounded, the sick and the medical staff, who we fear will be wiped out in view of the statements made by the Israeli military authorities.

Doctors Without Borders is calling for safe zones to remain in the north and for regular ceasefires. We are also calling for the possibility to flee through the Rafah crossing for those who wish to do so, without prejudice to the right to return. Médecins Sans Frontières has asked for its Palestinian staff who wish to leave to be evacuated.| - BNN

KABAYAN NEWSWEEKLY

Synod 2023: Filipina theologian explains why Asians gave an honest take on the Church

SYNODALITY. Pope Francis greets Dr. Estela Padilla, Filipina theologian, inside Paul VI Hall at the Vatican, where the delegates gathered for the Synod on Synodality on October 7, 2023.| CICM Bukal ng Tipan Photo

VATICAN — Asians tend to shun conflict and prefer harmonious relations, to the extent of papering over differences in an effort to save faces. But the continent’s report to the ongoing “Synod on Synodality” gave an honest take on what’s happening in the Church from the Asian perspective. For Filipina theologian Estela Padilla, one of 54 women allowed to vote for the first time in the assembly convened by Pope Francis to spark changes in the Church, being honest was a “liberating” experience. “One priest asked me why is our report so full of negative things happening in the church. Where is the good news there? I told him, the good news was the honesty in facing all

the woundedness of our world and our failure of witnessing to the Good News in the midst of poverty, violence brought by terrorism and political oppression, etc., and these, adding to the pain of clericalism and hierarchical leadership,” she said at the 16th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops on Oct. 18. The “Final Document of the Asian Continental Assembly on Synodality” published in March dedicated 10 paragraphs to the “experience of wounds” of the churches in Asia and an entire section on “Asian tensions” containing another 32 paragraphs. The 36-page report, which drew from the results of previous country-level synodal consultations, cited “abuses related

From page A1

Bishop hits return of STL gambling in Negros Oriental on luck and chance instead of choosing hard work and industry,” he said. The prelate made the call amid the “mushrooming” of STL outlets in the province. STL was a government project supposedly designed to combat jueteng, a multimillion-peso underground lottery. However, congressional probes in the past revealed that gambling lords and corrupt officials only used STL as a cover for the illegal numbers game. Cortes also expressed concern that STL may be used for “dubious activities by those who want to wield political power.” “We, therefore, plead to our government leaders

to be very cautious and discerning in the approval of STL applications in the province,” he added. As the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections draw closer, the bishop also urged the faithful to vote for candidates “who are persons of integrity and are not susceptible to corruption.” ciy deserves leaders who are determined to serve the common good and are committed to promoting justice and peace. “Let us therefore strive, with the guidance of the Lord, to choose life over destruction, grace over sin, and virtue over vice,” Cortes said.| - ROY LAGARDE CBCPNEWS

to finance, jurisdiction, conscience, authority, and sex,” and the “lack of transparency and accountability” that it said “has led to a crisis of credibility in the Church.” Padilla recalled one religious sister remarking that the Asians were able to discuss the tensions “without tension” in their continental gathering. “I actually found these negative comments in the church liberating because as Asians, we don’t like conflicts; we always seek harmony … Harmony is of course positive except when it hinders us from naming what is wrong,” she said. Padilla, who serves as executive secretary of the Office of Theological Concerns at the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Confer-

ences, echoed the continental report’s imagery of taking off one’s shoes and walking barefoot as Asia’s idea of the “synodal journey” that Pope Francis wants the Church to undertake. Taking off one’s shoes is a sign of deep respect when entering temples or even homes, and walking barefoot means being grounded in reality, she said. “I realized that decision making, an important governance function, can only give glory to God when we go through and grow into a communal spiritual discernment process,” Padilla said. “To walk barefoot in front of the Spirit is to be radically open in sensing the will of God for our times.”.| - CBCPNews

Comelec-BARMM needs more poll workers from Army, Marines: exec

COTABATO CITY – The Commission on Elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ComelecBARMM) needs more Army and Marines personnel to serve as poll officials for the Oct. 30 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE). Lawyer Ray Sumalipao, the Comelec-BARMM director, said the poll body has already trained 2,000 police personnel to serve as electoral board (EB) members after about an equal number of teachers have refused to serve in the BSKE for BARMM’s 2,590 villages. “Relationship with candidates and security issues were among the reasons some teachers nix poll du-

ties,” Sumalipao said in a radio interview Tuesday. Sumalipao said part of the poll body’s preparation is to train more members of the security sector to perform poll duties in the event more teachers refuse to serve, or when violence erupts. “We must inculcate in our minds that in this coming political exercise, failure of election is not an option, hence this plan to have more alternate poll officials,” he said. A day earlier, Sumalipao briefed police, Marines and Army personnel at the police regional headquarters in Camp SK Pendatun in Parang, Maguindanao del Norte on the BSKE situation in the region.| - PNA

SPECIAL REPORT

A5 Creation of media-citizen councils in two regions a felt need KABAYAN NEWSWEEKLY

OCTOBER 18 - 24, 2023

HE Philippine Press Institute (PPI) with its institutional partner, the International Media Support (IMS), successfully established two additional regonal councils in the third quarter of 2023: the Central Luzon Media-Citizen Council (CLMCC) and the Region 8 Media-Citizen Council (R8-MCC). This is PPI’s commitment to support initiatives on media self-and-co-regulation, promote quality journalism to better safeguard media freedom and accountability and news subject’s right to reply, and give the public free, truthful and timely information. R8-MCC and CLMCC, though the supervision of PPI during the former’s organizational workshop and the latter’s launch, considered their creation as a clamor from and a felt need by their council members and stakeholders to pursue what they had initially thought would be beneficial to their respective communities. Both councils are regional, multi-sectoral and self-governing aimed at resolving issues and conflicts between and among aggrieved parties and journalists. “Today, after six months, it now comes to bear fruit. CLMCC is a community-based group which will address abuses, malpractice and any other wrongdoings of media members in our region with an aim to resolve issues within the council to avoid resorting to other means against the media members while maintaining to uphold press freedom and harmony between and among all members of the community,” said CLMCC president Carmela Reyes-Estrope during the CLMCC’s launch and induction of officers. Present were members from the media, business, academe, law enforcement agencies, agriculture, National Commission for Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) and Commission on Human Rights (CHR). In the same event, PPI Executive Director and Head of the Training Operations and Special Projects Ariel Sebellino, presented the 5 core values of a contemporary Media-Citizen Council: What is your sense of purpose? Is it a felt need? How will it serve your community? Is it beneficial to media, its stakeholders and the citizenry? How will it enable media accountability and self/co-regulation? A pledge of commitment by the CLMC officers and stakeholders ensued. During the

p THE NORTH COUNCIL. The oath-taking ceremoni of the officers of the Central Luzon Media-Citizen Council held at the Oasis Hotel in Angeles City, Pampanga on September 29, 2023.| Photo by PPI

p THE BOARD. The members of the Board of Trustees of the Region 8 Media-Citizen Council selected from the pioneering 25 Council members following an Organizational Workshop held at the Summit Hotel, Tacloban City, on Sept. 27, 2023.| Photo by PPI

oathtaking, Region 3 Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) Region 3 OIC-Governor Atty. Maria Imelda-Quiambao-Tuazon said, “This is a good time for us to be in a partnership, for the betterment of your group and our group. We believe that the dissemination of any information that affects us, you and the rest of the community, is crucial especially in this day and age of cyber libel.” The IBP represents the legal sector in any Council.

Meanwhile, officers and members of the R8-MCC expressed enthusiasm about their Council which resulted to a productive organizational workshop. “Mabilis kami makabuo ng council at magtuloy-tuloy ito kasi gusto namin ang aming leader at naniniwala kami sa kanyang kakayahang mamuno,” said Ricky Brosas, elected Council trustee and anchor of “Tingog Naton” of the Calbayog-based Infinite Radyo in the

light of commited leadership required to sustain a Council. As a way forward, both regional Media-Citizen Councils in Region 8 and Central Luzon are gearing up for various activities towards the end of the year. They join the ranks of contemporary pro-active Media-Citizen Councils in Batangas, Iloilo, Davao and Aklan. Next in line are Surigao, Cotabato and General Santos.| - Rissa Silvestre

Batangas stakeholders create a Media-Citizen Council

OMMITTED to assure its fellow Batangueños of a renewed responsible journalism, practicing journalists from different platforms gather together with the other sectoral representatives, in a whole-day workshop on the membership and organization structure and mechanism, Wednesday.

The event, hosted by the Philippine Press Institute (PPI) and with the assistance of the International Media Support (IMS) was held at Hotel Ginazel & Events Center in Brgy. Gulod Labac, in Batangas City. Other than membership and organizational structure of the Batangas Media-Citizen Council (BMCC),

matters on complaint handling and settlement procedure were also discussed during the workshop. “We had our initial orientation on June 6, 2022 but the CoVid-19 pandemic prevented us from forming the council towards the end of year 2023. But it is an opportune time for us

p COMMITMENT. Practicing journalists from different platforms gather together with the other sectoral representatives, in a whole-day workshop on the membership and organization structure and mechanism of Batanbgas Media-Citizen Council, October 11, at Hotel Ginazel & Events Center, Batangas City. Other than the media sector, other sectors represented include business, academe, religious, socio-civic groups, women, youth, and law enforcement.| Photo by PPI

that International Media Support (IMS) partnered with the Philippine Press Institute (PPI) this year, and now that the pandemic is over, there’s no way out to go on with the formation of the council,” PPI Trustee for Luzon Joenald Medina Rayos, also the president of the Batangas Press Club (BPC) and publisher of Pahayagang Balikas, said. Prior to the breakaway session of sectoral representatives attending the workshop, PPI Executive Director and Head of the Training Operations and Special Projects Ariel Sebellino presented the 5 core values of a contemporary Media-Citizen Council: What is your sense of purpose? Is it a felt need? How will it serve your community? Is it beneficial to media, its stakeholders and the citizenry? How will it enable media accountability and self/co-regulation? With Iloilo Media-Citizen Council chairman and PPI Trustee for Visayas, Francis Angelo, assisting, sectoral representatives from the media, business,

religious, academe, law enforcement, and Fil-Chinese community were divided into four (4) groups and have their output presented in the afternoon. “The ‘partnership’ built on the creation of this media-citizen council is not an ordinary way of forming an organization. More than ever, it is building stewardship among stakeholders founded on commitment to promote responsible journalism to build a well-informed citizenry,” Rayos pointed out. Meanwhile, Sebellino reiterated the PPI’s commitment to support initiatives on media self-and-co-regulation, promote quality journalism to better safeguard media freedom and accountability and news subject’s right to reply, and give the public free, truthful and timely information. The Batangas Media-Citizen Council (BMCC) is set to be launched on November 10 coinciding with a seminar-workshop on Ethic Journalism and Digital Security.| - BALIKAS News

OCTOBER 18 - 24, 2023

The Good News

OPINION

KABAYAN NEWSWEEKLY

JESUS spoke to them again in parables, saying: “The kingdom of heaven is like a king who prepared a wedding banquet for his son. He sent his servants to those who had been invited to the banquet to tell them to come, but they refused to come. “Then he sent some more servants and said, ‘Tell those who have been invited that I have prepared my dinner: My oxen and fattened cattle have been butchered, and everything is ready. Come to the wedding banquet.’ “But they paid no attention and went off—one to his field, another to his business. The rest seized his servants, mistreated them and killed them. The king was enraged. He sent his army and destroyed those murderers and burned their city. “Then he said to his servants, ‘The wedding banquet is ready, but those I invited did not deserve to come. So go to the street corners and invite to the banquet anyone you find.’ So the servants went out into the streets and gathered all the people they could find, the bad as well as the good, and the wedding hall was filled with guests. “But when the king came in to see the guests, he noticed a man there who was not wearing wedding clothes. He asked, ‘How did you get in here without wedding clothes, friend?’ The man was speechless. “Then the king told the attendants, ‘Tie him hand and foot, and throw him outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’ “For many are invited, but few are chosen.” (Mt 22:1-14) bwa

Reflections on the Word of God

Friends, last Sunday’s Gospel likens the kingdom of God to a king who gives a wedding feast for his son. The biblical authors couldn’t find a more apt metaphor for the coming together of divinity and humanity than a wedding banquet. God and humanity are married, and they are surrounded by joy, peace, celebration, and good food. What was Jesus’ strategy? Open table-fellowship; outreach to all, to the righteous and the unrighteous, to the healthy and the sick, to the mainstream and the marginalized. Here comes everybody. You don’t have to be good to receive God’s grace; that’s why they call it “grace.” But then something puzzling emerges. When the king comes to welcome his guests, he finds someone not properly dressed: “The king said to him, ‘My friend, how is it that you came in here without a wedding garment?’” It was customary at the time (as it still is) for people to come to a wedding dressed up. The play here is between grace and works. We can refuse the invitation altogether, or we can refuse the transformation that should follow from grace. We have to cooperate with grace, donning the wedding garment of love, forgiveness, peace, and nonviolence. - Bishop Robert Barron, bishop of the Diocese of Winona-Rochester in Minnesota.

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The Parable of the Wedding Banquet

Barangay Elections Last Minute Campaign Guide 101

“HOW do you win an election? Get more votes than your opponents” - Anonymous bwa In eight days, the official campaign period for the 2023 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections will begin. Candidates for the various positions involved will officially have 10 grueling days to convince voters to: a) care about barangay elections; b) actually go out and vote on election day; c) remember their names and d) somehow vote for them. As always, the position of barangay chairman will be the most coveted prize up for grabs. hThere will be 42,027 sets of barangay officials to be contested. There are 7,226 candidates for barangay chairman who will run unopposed across the nation. If you are one of these lucky individuals, you can skip this guide. All you have to do to win is wake up early on election day and vote for yourself. If you are the incumbent barangay chairman and you: a) have more or less done your jobs

properly; b) are not essentially unlikeable; c) are in a “controlled” environment or d) are heavily favored by the local powers that be (even in a supposedly non-partisan elections), then you can probably just lightly read this article. This “guide” is for the challenger candidates. First of all, it must be stressed that unlike the local and national automated elections, candidates can be held liable for premature campaigning. As such, you really do have just those 10 days to actually campaign. Can a challenger actually win with only 10 days of campaign? Well, if Gilas can win the Asiad gold with just 12 days of preparation, then anything is possible. Second, even if a challenger candidate cannot actually campaign, there are still many tasks

that can and should be done prior to the campaign period proper. Revisiting and focusing on the target – At this point prior to the campaign period, the challenger candidate must revisit the statistics for his barangay and his minimum vote target. The vote target is 50 percent plus one of the possible voters which is the average percentage of voter turnout multiplied by the number of voters in the barangay. For example, if your barangay has 20,000 voters and your average voter turnout is 70 percent then the possible voter turnout is 14,000 more or less and the minimum target is 7,001. Basically, you and your team need to identify 7,001 voters from the voter list who will probably vote for you. You and your team must actually be able to name the actual voter who will vote for you and mark them on the list. This is called primary tagging. If at this point you are still unable to do this bare minimum then you must Turn to page A7

Miss Grand Philippines 2023 Candidate, nawawala pa rin hanggang ngayon ISANG Indian national na may kaso sa kanilang bansa ang nasukol ng awtoridad sa NAIA at hindi pinapasok sa Pilipinas. Mabuti naman at hindi madadagdagan ang mga Bumbay na mahilig sa 5/6 sa Pinas. bwa Ayon sa PAG-ASA ay mataas ang tsansa na pumasok sa PAR (Philippine Area od Responsibilty) ang namumuong sama ng panahon. At mataas din ang tsansa ng mga biglaang pag-ulan sa buong maghapon. Pero mababa naman ang tsansa na bumaba ang presyo ng mga bilihin! bwa Uutang daw uli ang bansa ng halagang $2,7 billion para sa mga proyektong kasama sa 2023 national budget, Lagi naman ganito sa nakalipas na ilang dekada na naglalagay proyekto at budget ay wala namang pondo para dito ang bansa! bwa Problemado si P-BBM kung

papaano niya makikilala ang mga corrupt sa gobyerno. Payo ko lang sana ay lagi siyang mulat sa pagbabantay at huwag siyang kukurap! He he he! bwa Simula na ngayon ng kampanyahan sa BSKE. Simula na rin nang pamumudmod ng pera! Basta, tanggapin ang pera at iboto ang kursunada! O tanggapin ang pera sa magkalabang kandidato at sa-yang din! He he he! bwa Nanaginip daw si Pareng PJ na nanalo siya sa pagka-Kapitan sa aming barangay. Sabi ko ay malamang talo siya kasi kabaligtaran ang ibig sabihin ng mga panaginip. Pero sa panaginip daw niya ay nagprotesta ang

kalaban niya at natalo siya sa recount ng mga balota. Haaay! Nanalo pa rin siya! Sana totoo ito, kasi kawawa naman at panlimang kandidatura na kasi niya ito eh! bwa Sa unang hearing ng MTRCB at It’s Showtime hosts Vice Ganda at Ion Perez ay sinagot ng dalawa ang kaso nila. Pero ayon sa dalawa ay hindi raw kabastusan ang kanilang ginawa hinggil sa dutdutan cake issue sa kanilang “Isip Bata” segment. Hindi kabastusan sa matatanda at karaniwan na iyon pero kabastusang makita ng mga bata ang insidenteng iyon. bwa Balita sa buong Asia na humihina sa Mathematics at iba pang mga subjects ang mga estudyanteng Pinoy. Ang dahilan seguro ay hindi sila nababahaginan ng intelligence fund ng Dep Ed!

KABAYAN NEWSWEEKLY

OPINION

Policing social media: Navigating complexities of digital expression

IN recent weeks, a piece of news has seized my attention, revealing a significant development in the ever-evolving landscape of social media. The “Kapisanan ng Social Media Broadcasters ng

ESPRESSO MORNINGS By Joe Zaldarriaga* Pilipinas” (KSMBP) has taken a bold stance, initiating legal proceedings against certain personalities accused of violating Philippine laws. Notably, a noontime show host and his partner face charges of “emulation of sexual activity” under the Cybercrime Prevention Act, while a social media personality contends with allegations related to YouTube music videos, purportedly violating the Revised Penal Code Section 201 in conjunction with the Cybercrime Law. For individuals deeply immersed in the vast world of social media, the internet presents an array of content, spanning from informative and valuable to what some might label as trash—content that fails to uphold positive values. The term “cyberspace” encapsulates this expansive, infinite nature of the digital realm. However, this boundlessness extends not only to valuable information but also to an accumulation of digital detritus. KSMBP’s actions underscore a growing concern about the content permeating social media platforms. It reflects a reaction to materials that deviate from

Filipino values and standards. Many netizens resonate with these actions, as social media applications have evolved into expansive stages where individuals can freely express themselves. While freedom of expression is constitutionally guaranteed, it comes with inherent limits. Social media influencers shoulder the responsibility of ensuring their content aligns with societal norms, considering its potential impact on the younger genera-

ably represents a technological boon for communication and education, there is an imperative need to sift through information to discern truth from disinformation. Gone are the days of visiting a library for research; now, information is a mere finger-tap away, available anytime and anywhere. However, with the vast sea of information, individuals, especially researchers and students, must cross-verify their information from multiple

On average, a Filipino spends around three hours and 45 minutes on social media each day—a substantial duration considering the standard eight-hour workday. The primary motivations for using social media are to stay connected with family and friends (69.2%) and to read news stories (47.3%).

tion and the broader social fabric. A contributing factor to the decline in the quality of social media content is the commercialization of views into revenue. Monetizing views has transformed the internet into a source of livelihood for many, as smartphones equipped with cameras provide a real-time avenue for content creation. Due to the algorithms of social media apps, there is a wide range of topics, issues, and concerns covered online. While the internet undeni-

sources to ensure accuracy. A study by Meltwater conducted in January 2023 reveals that, out of the total Philippine population of 116.5 million, approximately 84.45 million Filipinos are social media users. Intriguingly, female users outnumber males, constituting 53.5% of the total user base. On average, a Filipino spends around three hours and 45 minutes on social media each day —a substantial duration considering the standard eight-hour workday.

est solar energy provider in the country, for the development of 3,500 Megawatts of solar panels and 4,000 Megawatt-hours of battery energy storage systems in Luzon. Under the agreement, MGen Renewable Energy Inc. (MGreen), ha subsidiary of Meralco’s power generation arm Meralco PowerGen Corporation

but in the world,” MVP said. With the Philippines as one of the most vulnerable to the impact of climate change, harnessing and maximizing the potential of RE makes the most sense for a sustainable energy future, and Meralco is already taking steps to help achieve this. Since it established its sustainability agenda “Powering the

Turn to page A8

Powering a brighter, sustainable future with solar

AS more industries normalize their operations, global focus has shifted to economic growth from economic recovery and one key aspect that has become more pronounced especially af-

ESPRESSO MORNINGS By Joe Zaldarriaga* ter the pandemic is the importance of embracing sustainability. Industry movers and shakers worldwide are going green in a collective bid to ensure sustainable development for today while protecting and preserving the planet for future generations. It goes without saying that meeting the demands of today without compromising opportunities for growth of future generations requires a delicate balance. In terms of powering the economy, Meralco is among the Philippine energy industry leaders walking the talk through its firm commitment to sustainability with the use of renewable energy (RE). Last week, Meralco further reaffirmed this pledge as it forged a new partnership with SP New Energy Corporation (SPNEC)—known as the larg-

With the Philippines as one of the most vulnerable to the impact of climate change, harnessing and maximizing the potential of RE makes the most sense for a sustainable energy future, and Meralco is already taking steps to help achieve this. (MGen), will invest PHP15.9 billion in SPNEC to become the controlling shareholder. Meralco chairman and chief executive officer Manuel V. Pangilinan or MVP, said during the signing event that the agreement forms part of Meralco’s major contributions to the realization of the Department of Energy’s (DOE) vision to have about 35 percent of the country’s energy sourced from RE. “This will be one of the largest solar projects not just in Asia,

Good Life” in 2019, Meralco has made huge strides in going green as it started its transition away from coal in preference for cleaner energy sources such as RE. In fact, earlier this year, Meralco already announced that it had exceeded its initial target of 1,500 MW of RE capacity since it has already contracted 1,800 MW. The company also noted that with its current sourcing strategy, RE is expected to Turn to page A10

OCTOBER 18 - 24, 2023

Statement on the IsraelPalentinian Conflict

THE moratorium on customs duties on electronic transmissions (ETs) is not permanent and is normally extended at two-year intervals ever since WTO members agreed in 1998 not to impose customs duties on such transmissions. As an organization that advocates for the emotional needs of all people and holds close our commitment to social justice, the American Counseling Association (ACA) condemns the ongoing Israel-Palestinian conflict — including the violent attack on Israel that took place on October 7, 2023 — and the violence, displacement, deprivation and loss of life that pre-dated and has ensued since October 7. We acknowledge the collective trauma of the Israeli and Palestinian communities following decades of conflict and condemn the rise of anti-Jewish and anti-Arab rhetoric due to this current war. Unfortunately, we live in a time with no shortage of violent conflict — both large and small scale — at home and abroad. The mental health effects are profound for those living in areas under the constant threat of violence. But the effects also ripple to those with direct connections to a region in conflict and even those who witness and absorb war-related death and destruction from a distance via the news and social media. ACA has curated trauma-informed resources to assist counselors who are part of or who serve conflict-affected populations. We believe that mental health is a human right and that citizens of this region deserve to live in an environment free of fear and violence. ACA appeals to leaders on both sides of this war to take immediate steps to end the violence and work toward sustainable peace and collective healing.| - AMERICAN COUNSELLING ASSOCIATION From page A6

Barangay Elections Last Minute Campaign Guide 101 at the very least calculate your sphere of influence. Calculate your sphere of influence- The bare minimum voter target can also help you calculate your minimum sphere of influence. Your sphere of influence is the sum of your team, volunteers, supporters, family members and friends (who you can count on to spread your message or try and convince people to vote for you within their circle of neighbors and friends). You must be able to identify and specifically tag the names of these people from a list of voters. The process which you use to identify this list must be audited and vetted. You cannot just rely on a single person’s assertion. If you have a volunteer who refuses to name their corresponding sphere of influence or who utters statements like “malakas tayo doon o sa pamilyang yoon kaya lahat sila boboto sa atin” then please have their assessment vetted. At the very least the sum of your sphere of influence must reach 20 percent of your minimum target of votes. So, in the example above if you have a minimum of 7,001 as your target voter your sphere of influence must be at 1,400 voters. In my 30 plus years of campaign management, especially in local elections, candidates who can correctly identify this sphere of influence greatly increase the probability of winning. Ideally, your sphere of influence should be scattered in a manner that reflects the number of voters in your sitios. Plan your campaign – Given the limited number of days in the campaign period, challenger candidates must have a clear and detailed campaign plan. During this pre campaign period, the candidate and his team must now plan out in detail the sorties for the campaign period. In addition, you must have specific tasks and targets for your volunteers. For example, you must tell volunteer A to ensure that a specific number of persons must appear in your

sorties to assess your chances. A survey at this point will greatly help in assessing the number of people you need to get in a sortie. If you cannot afford a survey, then you can assess your chances by the number of people you can bring to your sortie multiplied by your conversion ability. To calculate a conversion ability, you might need a professional to assist you by observing you in one sortie. Lastly at this point you must have already honed your image and message and ensure that you will be consistent during your sorties. For example, you can be a tough executive to be and your message would be that you will rid the barangay of all bad people. Never try to be someone for everybody. You cannot get everybody to like you. These are just general tips that can possibly help the challenger candidate. There are of course many aspects and variables in an election. Next week we will tackle the campaign period. As a disclaimer, these tips are just to increase probabilities. If you still see symptoms of losing this election, please consult a professional. We have no therapeutic claims for losing candidates or campaigns. This is my oblique observation. For example, we can create a cult that promotes being kind to others online. In a world where the norm is to bash or cancel people who do not have the same opinions, perhaps this could be a good cult purpose. This is my oblique observation. ____________ *ATTY. GILBERTO LAUENGCO, J.D. is a lawyer, educator, political strategist, government consultant, Lego enthusiast, and the director of CAER Think Tank. He is a Former Vice Chairman of MECO, Special Assistant of NFA and City Administrator among others. His broad experience has molded his unique approach to issues analysis which he calls the oblique observation.

OCTOBER 18 - 24, 2023

BUSINESS

KABAYAN NEWSWEEKLY

PH-Turkey agribusiness collaboration opportunities waiting to be unlocked INDUSTRY captains have called for stronger economic cooperation between the Philippines and Turkey, noting the immense trade and investment potential between the two countries just waiting to be tapped. In a recent webinar, Ruben See, president of the Philippine Food Processors and Exporters Organization, Inc. or PHILFOODEX, underscored the mutual benefits to be reaped from enhancing the partnership between the two nations, especially in the areas of agriculture, machinery production, and food manufacturing. In his talk at an ASEAN Secretariat-organized forum last month, See said there is a need to unlock the potential of agricultural collaboration, as he called for a deeper exploration of opportunities for trade in products like fruits, vegetables, coffee, spices, and grains. At the same time, he identified several areas for partnership and collaboration, such as in agricultural technology transfer and sharing of best practices, including innovations in farming techniques, crop management, and irrigation methods.

Other areas for exploration include investment in agribusinesses and the funding of agricultural projects. According to See, promising fields for such investments include sustainable agriculture, agro-tourism, cooperative farming, agri-entrepreneurship, and climate resilience programs. There is also a need to explore joint opportunities in value-added processing of agricultural products, such as food processing, packaging, and exporting processed products to international markets. The two nations can also work together to meet international quality standards and certification requirements for agricultural products. Philippine and Turkish businesses can engage in research and development as well, focusing on developing new crop varieties, pest control methods, and soil improvement techniques, See said. In the area of supply chain and logistics for agriculture, he said projects can center on the building of cold storage facilities and the creation of transportation and distribution networks. At the same event,

Ma. Flordeliza C. Leong, vice president for Advocacy, Communications, and Special Concerns of the Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (PHILEXPORT), stressed that there is much opportunity to expand Philippine exports to Turkey given the trade imbalance between the two. Leong said Philippine exports to Turkey totaled $154-M in 2021, while Turkish exports to the Philippines reached $308.79M in 2022, indicating a balance of trade that is favorable to Turkey. “So there’s much room for [Philippine] export

growth particularly for the agriculture sector,” she said. Aside from agri products, Leong said the Philippines also supplies industrial goods such as office machines and parts and integrated circuits. “We also see potentials for motor vehicles, parts and accessories, non-retail synthetic staple fiber yarns, and industrial printers, which Turkiye imported from us in 2021,” she said. On the other hand, the Philippines will continue to need Turkish products like industrial goods, fab-

rics and apparel, among others, Leong said. The executive also observed that in terms of investments, there is a big scope for growth. Official statistics show there are only three Turkish firms in the Philippines, while the Philippines has no direct investment yet in Turkey, she said. For his part, PHILEXPORT trustee for textiles Robert Young urged Turkish businesses to invest in the textile industry of the Philippines. Young, who is also president and chairman of the Foreign Buyers Asso-

ciation of the Philippines or FOBAP, said the Philippines relies heavily on the importation of materials for its garment industry, which has been receiving big overseas orders and needs textile suppliers and investors to fulfill these requirements. He assured the Turkish business community that the Philippines has a conducive environment for foreign investments with the recent amendment of the Foreign Investment Act, which has eliminated restrictions in the foreign ownership of export enterprises.| - PHILEXPORT NEWS

Policing social media: Navigating complexities of digital expression

IN a bold move to expand its footprint across the country, Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates, philippines leading developer and and operator of Smart and sustainable industrial-anchored deveopments is gearing up to unveil a new economic estate at the heart of Central Luzon. Aboitiz InfraCapital (AIC), one of the country’s leading infrastructure companies, is strategically expanding its portfolio in a key geographic location with the acquisition of 200 hectares in Tarlac City. The latest acquisition, while still subject to closing conditions, by its wholly-owned subsidiary, LIMA Land Inc., from a wholly-owned subsidiary of Central Azucarera de Tarlac, will further strengthen Aboitiz InfraCapital’s position as one of the Philippine’s top infrastructure companies and the leader in smart and sustainable industrial development. In addition, this acquisition will also boost AIC’s growing portfolio of Economic Estates, which includes LIMA Estate in Batangas, MEZ2 Estate and West Cebu Estate in Cebu, for a total combined footprint of over 1,600 hectares. AIC’s plans for the new-

est estate will leverage its strategic location, closely linked to a convergence of major road networks such as SCTEx, TPLEx, CCLEx, and MacArthur Highway. “We are thrilled to be investing in Central Luzon through the expansion of our Economic Estates in Tarlac City,” said Cosette Canilao, President and CEO of Aboitiz InfraCapital. “The region’s robust economic activity, strategic location, and existing infrastructure make it an ideal destination indeed for businesses and investors seeking growth opportunities.” By creating a new hub of economic activity in Tarlac City, Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates aims to provide a conducive environment for businesses to thrive, attracting investments and promoting job creation. With over 220 locator businesses currently flourishing across their Economic Estates, this expansion will not only strengthen the existing economic ecosystem but also offer new opportunities for growth and innovation. The impact of this initiative extends far beyond infrastructural development; it signifies Aboitiz

InfraCapital’s dedication to the Filipino workforce. The 100,000 Filipinos employed by the businesses within their Economic Estates stand as a testament to the company’s commitment to enhancing livelihoods and fostering prosperity. By expanding their presence to Tarlac City, Aboitiz InfraCapital is poised to catalyze further economic dynamism, creating a ripple effect of progress that will benefit the local community and the nation as a whole. “As we expand, we remain committed to our vision of catalyzing economic, social, and environmental progress in emerging markets across the Philippines, contributing to the transformation and development of the countryside,” says Rafael Fernandez de Mesa, Head of Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates. “Similar to our existing Economic Estates, the forthcoming Central Luzon estate will also be a smart and sustainable industrial-anchored estate, designed to attract diverse locators from various industries. By combining smart city technology in its facilities, its synergy with the different business sec-

tors of the Aboitiz Group, and a commitment to sustainability, we aim to foster an environment that nurtures business growth and community development,” Fernandez de Mesa adds. Meanwhile, AIC will continue to develop sustainability initiatives in its existing Economic Estates while expanding the facilities and services it offers to its locators and residents living in nearby communities. AIC Economic Estates’ flagship project, LIMA Estate, is an expansive 826-hectare PEZA registered zone spanning Lipa and Malvar in Batangas. Situated at the heart of CALABARZON, the country’s premier hub of industry, LIMA Estate stands as the largest and most ambitious endeavor within Aboitiz InfraCapital’s portfolio. MEZ2 Estate is a dynamic 63-hectare Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) registered zone adjacent to the Mactan Cebu International Airport in Lapu-Lapu City, while the West Cebu Estate is a sprawling 540-hectare PEZA registered zone in Balamban also known as the Shipbuilding Capital of the Philippines.| - BNN

Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates maps expansion in Central Luzon

From page A7

The primary motivations for using social media are to stay connected with family and frhiends (69.2%) and to read news stories (47.3%h). Facebook remains the dominant social media platform in the Philippines, serving as the primary means of connecting people. Based on shared friends, Facebook activity, and profile information, Facebook’s algorithm suggests users they may know. Despite the positive aspects of social media facilitating easy sharing and updating among friends, it also comes with the risk of disseminating misinformation and disinformation. The sheer volume of shared content sometimes blurs the line between truth and falsehood, necessitating the role of factcheckers to distinguish facts from the fiction proliferating on the internet. In light of these challenges, it is essential not only for the government to monitor cyberspace but also for netizens themselves to actively participate in maintaining a res-

ponsible online environment. Vigilance is key if we aspire to create an internet space where meaningful and valuable content prevails. Recognizing the evolving landscape, the Philippines has enacted laws addressing various internet-related issues, including privacy, jurisdiction, antitrust, content control, intellectual property, defamation, electronic commerce, and freedom of expression. The recent legal actions initiated by KSMBP may potentially set a precedent, prompting social media personalities to be more discerning about the content they share. Regardless of the outcomes of these cases, the overarching goal should be the improvement of internet content and the protection of netizens, especially the younger demographic, from potentially harmful material. As we navigate the complex terrain of the digital age, a collective effort is needed to strike a balance between freedom of expression and the responsible use of the internet.|

KABAYAN NEWSWEEKLY

CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

OCTOBER 18 - 24, 2023

SMC, gov’t forge biggest CSR collab to clean up, rehabilitate Luzon rivers THREE years after it launched its landmark river cleanup and flood mitigation initiative--which has led to the removal of over 3 million metric tons of silt and solid wastes from the Pasig, Tullahan, and San Juan Rivers--San Miguel Corporation (SMC) is setting its sights on a more ambitious goal: cleaning up and rehabilitating three major river systems as well as other tributaries and waterways throughout Metro Manila, Pampanga, Cavite, and Bulacan. Dubbed as “SMC’s Adopt-A-River program”, this initiative is possibly the country’s biggest and most impactful corporate social responsibility (CSR) effort in collaboration with the national and local governments. The initiative has gained broad-based support from various stakeholders, including national, provincial and city governments, whose localities stand to benefit from the massive undertaking. Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Ma. Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga

and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Manual Bonoan led national government support for the program at the formal signing of the memoranda of agreement. Also present at the signing and joining the effort were Cavite Gov. Juanito Victor Remulla, Pampanga Gov. Dennis Pineda, and Navotas City Mayor John Ray Tiangco. “This initiative is unlike anything we have seen before. It is perhaps the most extensive environmental effort involving both government and the private sector. In one decisive move, we are cleaning up many major rivers and waterways. We are doing this as a public service, at no cost to the government or taxpayers,” SMC President and CEO Ramon S. Ang said. He added that: “ t is important to understand that cleaning up rivers is not a quick fix. It is a very important step in the river restoration process. It paves the way for polluted waterways to heal.” SMC began its river advocacy three years ago spending over P3 billion

COLLABORATION FOR LUZON RIVERS. Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Ma. Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga (2nd from left) and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Manual Bonoan (2nd from right)flank SMC President and CEO Ramon S. Ang and led national government support for the program at the formal signing of the memoranda of agreement. Also present at the signing and joining the effort were Cavite Gov. Juanito Victor Remulla (extreme left), Pampanga Gov. Dennis Pineda, and Navotas City Mayor John Ray Tiangco. (2nd and 1st from right).| Contributed photo

and removing over three million metric tons of oil and waste from Pasig River, Tullahan River and San Juan River. The massive initiative covers the following rivers: • River systems in Bulacan including the Meycauayan, Maycapiz-Taliptip, and Mailad Rivers, the Bambang Creek, Marilao River, Sta. Maria River,

Guiguinto River, Pamarawan River, Labangon-Angat River, Malolos River, and Hagonoy River. • Pampanga River • Maragondon River and other related tributaries in Cavite • Waterways in Navotas City, including Muzon River, Batasan River, and the Navotas River • San Pedro River in Laguna

• San Juan River DENR Secretary Yulo-Loyzaga lauded the company for its continuous efforts to clean up major river systems and the expansion of the program, aligned with government’s environmental objectives. “This partnership enables DENR to achieve three main mandates by investing and allowing water to flow and im-

pound it correctly where it is needed. Most of all, we are able to fulfill a new role assigned to us by our President when he created the Water Resources Management Office... We are very grateful to San Miguel Corporation for its kind and generous support to our government activities,” Loyzaga said. For his part, DPWH Turn to page A10

PLDT, Smart and WVSU forge partnership Sari-sari stores to gain access to microfinancing, financial to launch app for teaching Hiligaynon THE Philippines’ leading integrated telecommunications network, PLDT Inc. (PLDT) and its wireless arm Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) have officially inked their partnership with West Visayas State University (WVSU) to develop a #LearnSmart application aimed at teaching students how to speak and write in Hiligaynon, a predominant language in West Visayas region. “We at PLDT and Smart continue to support the creation of mobile lit-

eracy applications like the #LearnSmart Hiligaynon app and collaborate with like-minded institutions like WVSU to create age-appropriate and culturally responsive content that not only help in early learning development but also foster the awareness and appreciation of the local culture among students,” said Marylou Gocotano, PLDT and Smart Stakeholder Management Visayas Relations Head. This #LearnSmart Hiligaynon app, once

ready, will be the eleventh mother-tongue based literacy app developed by PLDT and Smart designed to promote and enrich the Philippines’ local languages and diverse culture. Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine V. Dequilla, WVSU Vice President for Academic Affairs, expressed her thanks during the official signing of Memorandum of Agreement with PLDT and Smart for the partnership. “We are advocates of helping shape young

PARTNERSHIP. The Philippines’ leading integrated telecommunications network, PLDT Inc. (PLDT) and its wireless arm Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) have officially inked their partnership with West Visayas State University (WVSU) to develop a #LearnSmart application aimed at teaching students how to speak and write in Hiligaynon, a predominant language in West Visayas region. Photo courtesy of SMART

minds in learning how to be well versed in the first language and we hope to achieve this goal by creating engaging materials and tools with the help of technology. This collaboration between WVSU, PLDT and Smart is a very good example of academe-industry partnership. My heart is full because you chose us as your partner. Rest assured that we will do our part because we believe that we are stronger when we are working together,” said Dr. Dequilla. LearnSmart Apps form part of the shared value programs of the PLDT Group’s education advocacy. This advocacy promotes the use of technology to help bridge the digital divide and promote inclusive learning, empowering and building bridges of collaboration across sectors and communities towards a sustainable future. Furthermore, PLDT and Smart create and support various educational initiatives in line with their commitment to helping the country achieve the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals No. 4: Quality Education.

services to boost growth THE Philippines’ micro, small, and medium-sized enterprise (MSME) sector is described as the most underbanked sector in Asia despite comprising 99% of the country’s registered business establishments. The 2022 Annual Report on National Strategy for Financial Inclusion (NSFI) by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) reveals that micro-enterprises use significantly fewer formal financial services than small and medium enterprises. One of the main challenges seen is the stringent requirements set by formal financial institutions. Additionally, many MSMEs lack knowledge about available financial services and how to access them. The lack of access to regulated credit and financing programs also forces them to live cash-in-hand, unable to get loans when they need them, which limits their growth potential. Recognizing these challenges in the sector, Packworks, which offers a business-to-business

(B2B) FMCG marketplace for sari-sari stores, is forging strategic partnerships with financial service providers aimed at seeking affordable and accessible services that can empower over 270,000 micro-retail stores across the country to grow their businesses. Packworks has recently penned partnerships with Cebuana Lhuillier and 1Sari Financing Corporation to provide sari-sari stores access to secure, reliable, and affordable microloan services. Through these partnerships, Packworks aims to offer sari-sari stores various financial services to further promote financial inclusion and empowerment, which could expand their businesses. Packworks Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer Bing Tan highlights that sari-sari stores are a fundamental part of the country’s grassroots retail industry. Sari-sari stores significantly contribute to the economic fabric of the Philippines. Our objective is to enhance financial Turn to page A10

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OCTOBER 18 - 24, 2023

From page A9

BUSINESS

Sari-sari stores to gain access to microfinancing, financial services to boost growth - partners inclusion, tap into untapped growth potential, and fortify the foundation of our retail industry. We are actively pursuing these goals through strategic partnerships aimed at providing accessible and affordable financial services to empower the sari-sari store sector,” Tan said. Packworks is currently in discussions with other service providers to bring more options to its network of micro-retail stores. The services are particularly timely as the Christmas season approaches, known to be the busiest time for businesses. Enabling sari-sari stores to access essential financial services allows them to efficiently replenish their inventory, ensuring they are well-prepared to meet the heightened demand for various items during this

festive period. In line with their commitment to promoting financial inclusion and empowering sari-sari stores, Packworks is partnering with social development organization Bayan Academy through its SariSkwela program. This initiative provides sari-sari stores access to learning modules on microentrepreneurship, further equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to en-

hance their businesses. Founded in 2018, Packworks has been empowering saripreneurs through its integrated mobile app ecosystem that allows them to process their business’s inventory, bookkeeping, and data collection. Packworks’ store partners are able to access pricing tools, inventory management, sales and revenue tracking, and working capital loans through the Sari. PH app for microstores

and Sari.PH Pro app for megastores. Packworks also has Sari IQ, a business intelligence tool utilizing data analytics to understand and predict consumer behavior, enabling retailers and multinational brands to make data-driven decisions that boost sales for sari-sari store owners and expand their product offerings to a larger customer base. In August, the company was cited by Forbes Asia as one of the companies and startups to watch out for in its 100 to Watch List 2023. The list gives a spotlight to companies and startups that are “targeting underserved markets or applying new technologies.” The company targets to reach 500,000 sari-sari stores in the next two years.”| - BNN

From page A9

SMC, gov’t forge biggest CSR collab to clean up, rehab rivers Secretary Bonoan said: “We commend SMC for taking this noble initiative, for using your own resources and manpower to rehabilitate rivers that will benefit numerous communities and residents of various provinces. The initiative not only reflects commitment to environment stewardship, but also signifies dedication to preserving our rivers that have suffered the brunt of pollution and neglect and human activities.” The local government partners also extolled the efforts of SMC to clean up waterways in their areas. “What they plan to do is solve the problem in Noveleta, Rosario, General Trias, and Imus, which comprise maybe 10% of the land area, but 90% of flooding. With JICA and San Miguel, we expect to solve flooding in Cavite 100%,” said Cavite Governor Remulla. “What affects Bulacan

affects Navotas, affects Manila, affects Cavite,” Remulla continued. “(Ramon Ang) brings us together to realize there is hope for this country if we act together.” For his part, Governor Pineda said: “Noong nakaraang kalamidad, talaga pong namorublema kami kung paano bibigyang solusyon ang baha sa probinsya. Kaya nagpapasalamat po ang mga Kapampangan kay boss Ramon Ang at sa SMC… Alam ko po na ang gagastusin ninyo dito bilyon, pero wala po kayong inaasahan na kapalit. Hindi po namin makakalimutan itong tulong na binigay niyo.” Navotas City Mayor Tiangco, who lauded SMC’s cleanup of the Tullahan River in support of the rehabilitation of Manila Bay, said: Our ultimate goal is to restore the waters surrounding Navotas to a classification fit for

fishing, aquaculture, and other recreational water activities. Hence, we fully support San Miguel Corporation’s Adopt-A-River program and its noble endeavor to clean up and rejuvenate bodies of water.” Ang said that while the expanded project already covers the major rivers and waterways that significantly contribute to flooding, the initiative may still be expanded as needed, should government request the coverage of more rivers. He added that SMC has already started conducting bathymetric studies on the rivers, to determine problem areas that have become shallow due to decades of accumulated silt and garbage. DENR and the company will then develop the appropriate dredging plans. Over the last three years, as it implemented its ambitious P3-billion cleanup effort for the Pasig

River, Tullahan River, and San Juan River, SMC has acquired various specialized heavy equipment that enable it to conduct river cleanup efforts in various conditions more efficiently. Ang said that its cleanup personnel have also gained significant experience and skill in conducting cleanups efficiently and according to government standards. SMC’s efforts have been credited with lesser incidences of flooding throughout Metro Manila, despite the yearly succession of typhoons, as the removal of millions of tons of solid wastes have deepened and widened once shallow and heavily polluted rivers. This has complemented the government’s continuing flood mitigation efforts, including the putting of pumping stations in critical areas. - BNN

From page A7

Powering a brighter, sustainable future with solar account for 22% of its supply portfolio by 2030. The DOE has said before that RE is vital to addressing the challenges of climate change and energy security therefore, it is the shared responsibility of all Philippine energy industry players to do what they can to realize the sustainable energy future goals of the country. In the case of Meralco,

not only is the company working to source an increasing portion of its supply from RE but is also actively doing its part on the power generation front with its power generation arm MGen aggressively developing greener capacities to meet the country’s growing energy demand. Clearly, Meralco is resolute in going green and embracing sustainability

on all fronts. Even before the pandemic started and the shift towards more sustainable options became much more pronounced in different industries, Meralco had already laid down its sustainability agenda— placing it at the core of its business and operations. Harnessing the full potential of RE offers a multitude of benefits from

environmental to economic gains that, if properly maximized, can make the Philippines a key player on this front. If all energy industry players here in the country work towards a sustainable energy future like Meralco, it is only a matter of time before we Filipinos reap the benefits of a brighter future for all.|

KABAYAN NEWSWEEKLY

JOB HIRING EPSON PRECISION (PHILIPPINES), INC.

JOB OPPORTUNITIES We are in need of: 1. VP Quality Assurance Japanese Support 2. VP Production Engineering Japanese Support 3. Printer Production Division Senior General Manager 4. Printer Production Division General Manager 5. Printer Production Division Department Manager

ualifications are: 3 Candidate must be fluent in Japanese Language at least N1 passer, can read and write Katakana, Hiragana & Kanji. 3 Management Skills with full knowledge in either of the ff:

VP Quality Assurance (For No. 1) VP Production Engineering (For No. 2) Printer Production (For No. 3,4,5) 3 With at least 10 years experience specialized in Printer & Projector Manufacturing / Production Operation or equivalent

Location: SEPZ, Lima Technology Center Lipa City, Batangas Contact Numbers: (043) 981-2000) / 0917-866-2732 / 0999-885-1656 Email Address: IIPCMD_RECRUITMENT@eppi.epson.com.ph Pahayagang BALIKAS | Oct. 23 - Nov. 6, 2023

Yamaha Motor Philippines, Inc.

JOB OPENING

Production Senior Adviser QUALIFICATIONS: • Must be a Japanese Language Proficiency Passer: N1-N2 Level

• 5+ years managerial experience in Production &

Manufacturing process • Monitor and advise strategies for overall operation with regards to over-all production operation customer satisfaction and cost efficiency. • Prepare strategic advice to all functions, procedures and subordinates through continuous improvement and kaizen practices. • Monitor process and procedures in Production Department • Must have at least 5 years exposure in multinational company with regional reporting • Demonstrated management/leadership of production & manufacturing function and team. • Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Interested applicants may send their resumes to:

hrd_limarecruitment@yamaha-motor.com.ph

Head Office: Lots 1 & 2, Block 17, Phase I, LIMA Technology Center, Malvar, Batangas Tel. No.: +63 043 455 1900/ 0917-872-8449

LEGAL NOTICE EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE WITH ABSOLUTE SALE AND PARTITION NOTICE is hereby given that the estate of JUAN A. ABEL and PLACIDA B. ABEL who both died intestate at Brgy. P. Balibaguhan, Mabini, Batangas on January 9, 2002 and July 18, 1995, respectively, consisting of a parcel of land situated at Brgy. P. Balibaguhan, Mabini, Batangas, covered by Tax Declaration No. 14-0019-00193, with an area of 190 sq.m., has been extrajudicially settled by and among her heirs with Deed of Absolute Sale and with Partition, per Doc. No. 308; Page No. 62; Book No. LXXXIV; Series of 2023 of ATTY. ERWIN M. LAYOG, Notary Public. Kabayan Newsweekly | October 18, 25 & Nov. 1, 2023

You have anything up for sale? Or offering any time of services, or looking for any good or services... KABAYAN News Classified may be of help. Send your inquiries to email add: kabayannews2022@gmail.com

SPORTS

KABAYAN NEWSWEEKLY

OCTOBER 18 - 24, 2023

A11

Lady Bulldogs dominate Lady Archers

HOT SHOT. Camille Clarin of National University goes for a shot against a De La Salle University defender in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines Season 86 women’s basketball at Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Sunday (Oct. 15, 2023). The seven-time champion Lady Bulldogs prevailed, 91-53. |UAAP Photo

Go on dope claim vs. Obiena: ‘No cure for envy’ MANILA – The wife of 2012 Olympic gold medalist pole vaulter Renaud Lavillenie, who insinuated through a social media post that Filipino pole vaulter EJ Obiena is using banned substances, might be jealous or has malicious intent, according to Senator Christopher Lawrence Go. In a news release on Wednesday, Go expressed his skepticism on the allegation which he said

intends to tarnish the reputation of Obiena who currently holds the Asian record in the pole vault. “Nanalo lang [si Obiena], pinagbintangan na agad. Baka inggit lang siguro. Walang gamot sa inggit (Obiena just won and he was immediately accused. Maybe it’s just envy. There is no cure for envy),” Go said. Condemning the accusation and reiterating the importance of profession-

Red Lions conquer Heavy Bombers MANILA – Jacob Cortez scored a game-high 24 points, including six triples, as San Beda University escaped with a 74-70 victory over Jose Rizal University (JRU) in the National Collegiate Athletic Association Season 99 men’s basketball at Filoil EcoOil Arena in San Juan City Saturday. Cortez also came up with five rebounds, four steals and two assists for the Red Lions, who joined the Emilio Aguinaldo College Generals in third place with four victories and two losses. Peter Alfaro contributed 12 points, highlighted by three triples, while Jomel Puno added nine points, 12 rebounds and three assists for San Beda, handled by Andre Santos in lieu of head coach, Yuri Escueta. “I am thankful to the boys for responding to

me,” Santos said in the post-match interview. After trailing in the first three quarters, the Red Lions fought back to gain the upper hand, only to lose it again at 70-69 on Marwin Dionisio’s basket, less than a minute remaining. But Cortez came to the rescue, scoring on a layup and sinking his charities to preserve San Beda’s victory that sent JRU to fourth place with a 4-3 record. Shawn Argente led JRU with 14 points followed by Dionisio (13), JL Delos Santos (12), Agem Miranda (11) and Joshua Guiab (10). Meanwhile, Emilio Aguinaldo College and San Sebastian College will square off at 10 a.m. on Sunday, followed by the 12:20 p.m. tussle between Perpetual Help and Letran College.| -- JEAN MALANUM, PNA

alism in sports, he urged the accuser to substantiate the claim and not resort to ruining Obiena’s reputation. “As chair of the Senate Committee on Sports, we will always support and protect the integrity of our Filipino athletes,” Go assured. The accusation was made after Thiago Braz, another athlete trained by Obiena’s coach, tested positive for performance-enhancing substances last July. Along with other Pi-

noy athletes who brought home gold medals from the recent Asian Games in China, Obiena visited the Office of Senator Go to discuss the need to renovate sports facilities, additional support to athletes competing abroad, and increase funds for grassroots sports programs. Obiena’s camp has arranged for a polygraph test to be conducted, the results of which will be shared publicly to address the accusations head-on and uphold his professional standing in the global

MANILA – Seven-time champion National University clobbered De La Salle University, 91-53, to keep its share of second place in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 86 women’s basketball at Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Sunday. Camille Clarin scored 19 points, including five triples, on top of six rebounds for the Lady Bulldogs, who tied the Ateneo Lady Eagles at 4-1. Princess Fabruada chipped in 13 points, five rebounds, three steals, and two assists while Karl Pingol contributed 11 points, four rebounds, and three assists, which NU led by as much as 38 points. Lee Sario finished with 14 points, five rebounds, three assists and one steal for La Salle. “Technically, it was the challenge for us today to keep the number two spot,” NU coach Aries Dimaunahan said. “Glad that we did our job today right from the getgo. Part of the good start that we had was these two girls (Clarin and Stefanie Berbarabe) beside me. They did their job early on,” he added. The Lady Archers clawed back from a 33-45 deficit to make it 40-49 on Luisa San Juan and Sario’s

triples, 5:32 remaining in the third quarter. “Again, basketball is a game of runs,” Dimaunahan said. “They did their run. We kinda huddled up ourselves and talked about it and stayed locked in, especially on the defensive side. They were outrebounding us because of their foreign athlete (Aji Bojang).” Meanwhile, Adamson University ended its fourgame skid with a 71-41 thrashing of University of the East. Victoria Adeshina had 12 points, 10 rebounds and four steals, while Crisnalyn Padilla contributed 11 points, three assists and two steals for Adamson. “Of course, in life in general, we always want to win. Winning is something that gives us relief. Ang goal ko naman talaga is to make the team better. May mga struggles pero getting this first win, hopefully ito na ‘yung magiging breakthrough namin (Of course, in life in general, we always want to win. Winning is something that gives us relief. My goal is to make the team better. There are struggles but getting this first win, hopefully, this will be our breakthrough),” coach Ryan Monteclaro said after his Lady Falcons joined the Lady Archers in fifth place at 1-4. |- JEAN MALANUM, PNA

athletic community. Obiena was able to set a new Asian Games record in pole vault by clearing 5.90 meters, thereby surpassing the previous record of 5.75 meters held by Japan’s Seito Yamamato in 2018.

He also holds the current Asian record after taking a height of 6.01 meters at the World Athletics Championships in Oregon, USA last year where he also secured a bronze medal.|-- WILNARD BACELONIA, PNA

NEXT MOVE. San Beda University’s Jacob Cortez (with ball) prepares to dribble past Jose Rizal University’s JL Delos Santos during their National Collegiate Athletic Association Season 99 men’s basketball match at Filoil EcoOil Arena in San Juan on Saturday (Oct. 14, 2023). The Red Lions prevailed, 74-70.|Photo courtesy of NCAA

OCTOBER 18 - 24, 2023 *

1 kabayannews2022@gmail.com

Experience Super-Sized Fun at SM’s 65th Anniversary

(Top) Take your instagrammable photos at SM Mall of Asia’s Super Play Spots. (Left) SM Mall of Asia at night

Experience Super-Sized Fun at SM’s 65th Anniversary IT’S October and it only means one thing at SM– Super Month! Suit up for some super-sized deals, treats, and fun as SM celebrates its 65th anniversary. Check out the month-long festivities filled with spectacular activities, immersive attractions, and unforgettable experiences that will leave you thrilled and excited. SM lights up the sky with Super Blue Illumination

Signaling the start of SM’s 65th celebration, key malls and iconic landmarks will bathe in a brilliant shade of blue starting October 1. A sight to behold and an event to watch out for, the Super Blue Illumination is a captivating display of dazzling lights that signify SM’s enduring legacy and commitment to bringing fun, awesome, and memorable malling experiences for over six decades. It’s a shopper’s paradise with Super Buy 1 Get 1 Deals

October isn’t complete without a month-long parade of super-sized deals and promos at SM Deals! Expect Buy 1 Get 1 Deals from your favorite dining, shopping and entertainment brands, extravagant discounts, exclusive bundles, and exciting freebies you can swipe to redeem in-store when you download and register on the SM Malls Online app. And with a diverse range of brands and product offerings at SM, surely there’s something for everyone in everyone’s shopping paradise. Indulge yourself with Super Treats

Fun and frenzied October awaits as SM

unleashes its Super Treats! On October 15, indulge the movie buff in you as SM Cinema offers a Php 65 movie ticket deal and a Php 65 caramel popcorn combo. It’s truly a match made in cinema heaven! From October 1 to 30, knock down pins all you want as SM Game Park and SM Bowling offer Php 65 off on unlimited bowling for one hour. For the skating aficionados, SM Skating will also be slashing off Php 65 on the all-day pass. And for the thrill seekers, you are in for a super treat! Have a whole day of wonder and excitement with a Php 65 entrance fee at Skyranch Tagaytay for all Mondays of October until 12 noon. Create core memories at the Super Play Spots

Gather your squad and have fun at the Super Play Spots. With well-lit, Instagrammable areas, you’ll have the perfect backdrop for your Super Month memories. These Super Play Spots promise hours of entertainment whether you’re a social media maven or simply looking for a fun day out. Check out the Super Play Spots at SM Mall of Asia, SM Megamall, SM City North Edsa, SM Aura, SM Southmall, SM City Dasmariñas, SM Seaside City Cebu, SM Cagayan Downtown Premier, SM Lanang, SM City Clark, SM City Marikina and SM City Iloilo. Experience the magic of SM City Marikina’s Super Play Spot’s Kaleidoscope Tunnel – a dazzling experience for family and friends of all ages! Take your instagrammable photos at SM Mall of Asia’s Super Play Spots. Drive away in style at the uper Raffle Giveawahy with VISA

From October 1 to November 30, eleven lucky shoppers can get a chance to drive away in style at SM’s Super Raffle Giveaway with VISA. All you need to do is to shop for a minimum single receipt purchase of Php 2,000 via tap to pay using your VISA card at participating SM Retail Stores in 75 SM Malls nationwide. Get a chance to win one of the six (6) brand-new Hyundai Stargazers and one of the five (5) brandnew Hyundai Cretas. These brand-new Hyundai cars will really make your daily commute a super experience so shop till you drop and maybe drive away with a new set of wheels! hSM’s Super Month promises to be a 65th-anniversary celebration like no other. Don’t miss out on the super-sized deals, indulgent treats, and the chance to win big. Mark your calendars and get ready for a super malling experience at your favorite SM mall. To stay updated for everything SUPER this October, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media.| BNN