The Manila Times | March 6, 2019 by The Manila Times

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 6, 2019

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THE FIRES OF MARCH

Firefighters battle a fire that hit West Riverside in San Antonio village in Quezon City on Tuesday, where at least 180 houses were razed. PHOTO BY RUY L. MARTINEZ

Rappler’s Ressa is a colossal con man

R con w o m a n , con person. Whatever. Rappler CEO and Editor in chief Maria Aycardo Ressa has successfully fooled Western media that she is a Filipino journalist with little means who is fighting her country’s authoritarian President bent on suppressing media dissent.

RIGOBERTO D. TIGLAO

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ALACAÑANG on Tuesday said the government would release next week the “validated” narcolist, which, according to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) contains the names of 82 narco-politicians. äNarcolistA2

‘One tree at a time’ Build&Design C1 A touching reunion n Ramon 'Bong' Revilla Jr. is reunited with Liwayway Gacusan, a resident of Candon, Ilocos Sur who took in the actor-politician 30 years ago when he was stranded during a super storm.

on the campaign trail

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BY RALPH EDWIN U. VILLANUEVA

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82 politicians in narcolist

ACTION star-cum-politician Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr., who is vying to return to the Senate after his second term in office ended during his detention in Camp Crame, is finding himself on a roller coaster of emotions on this particular campaign. Not new to scouring barangay after barangay to meet, greet and ask for the support of masses since becoming Cavite vice governor and governor in 1995 to 1998 and 1998 to 2001, respectively; then in his nationwide sorties before becoming senator from 2004 to 2016, Revilla expressed in an earlier interview, “Madamdamin itong

bagong laban na ito para sa akin dahil sa apat at kalahating taon kong nakakulong, wala akong kasiguraduhan kung makakalabas pa ako at kung lalabas ang katotohanan.”

CHARO SANTOS, BEA ALONZO TOPBILL NEW HORROR FLICK ‘EERIE’

n Seasoned actresses Bea Alonzo (left) and Charo Santos with young and noted 'Eerie' director Mikhail Red. went very smoothly. Nakuha namin lahat ng shooting days,” Red happily revealed. “As a young filmmaker, ang laging mahirap gawin is to balance your authority — na kailangan

alam nila na alam mo yung ginagawa mo, na may vision ka — and to show that grabe yung respect ko sa kanila. Mas matagal na sila sa industry, mas marami silang nagawang films compared sa akin, so ang dami ko ding natutunan from them,” added the 27-year-old director who gained acclaim in both the local and international film scene with the independent and highly awarded movie, “Birdshot.”

miliar and as the story progresses,

doon namin ipapakita yung bali. Ito yung anchor para may kakapitan yung audience and then slowly mari-realize nila, may layers pala ang film na ito,” Red noted.

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“Another interesting factor is that Eerie is one of the first international co-productions of Star Cinema. Nag-partner-up sila with a Singapore-based production company, Cre8 Productions, after I pitched this movie to them. And sobrang swerte ko as a filmmaker na na-decide nila na i-finalize yung movie together. So hindi lang namin goal sa pelikulang ito to show it to the local audience but ito yung type of film na gusto naming i-export na dapat proud tayo of its quality,” he continued. The director consequently noted that doing a horror movie is indeed very technical requires strict visual elements, including precise camera movements and timing. And while he found all these aspects very challenging, he guarantees the audience will get their money’s worth once they have seen the movie. Completing the cast of Eerie, which gathered very positive

He was referring of course to his alleged and disproven involvement in the controversial Priority Development Assistance Fund or pork barrel scam case, which led to his acquittal and release from Crame in December 2018.

LOWLY SUNS STUN BUCKS, CLIPPERS DELIVER BLOW TO LAKER PLAYOFF HOPES

“Tapos nung lumabas na ako para mag-pasalamat sa mga tao, hindi ko inakala na mahal pa rin nila ako at pinagtitiwalaan na magsilbi muli sa kanila,” Revilla added. Always keen to update his beloved entertainment industry on how he’s doing on the campaign trail, the silver screen’s famed Panday, shared a photo detailing a touching reunion he had in Ilocos Sur on Friday. He wrote, “Ito si Dra. Liwayway Gacusan na binati ko nang yakap nang makita ko siya sa Candon, Ilocos Sur. Nanay Liwayway ang

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tawag ko sa kanya at siya ang kumupkop sa akin ng isang linggo over 30 years ago when I was stranded here dahil sa napakalakas na bagyo. Nasira ang mga tulay at hindi ako nakauwi.”

Since Gacusan’s act of kindness back then, Revilla and his family had treated her as an important friend of the family’s so much so that when the former senator was incarcerated in Crame, she travelled all the way to Manila numerous times from far up north hoping to visit him. Sadly, she was never allowed past the gates, which made their reunion all the more poignant. “Si Nanay Liwayway at ang mga mabubuting Pilipinong katulad

niya ang nagsisilbing inspirasyon ko para sumabak muli dito at manilbihan sa bayan,” Revilla’s sharing ended. TESSA MAURICIO-ARRIOLA

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REPENT, PRAY, TRAVEL LIGHT, BISHOPS URGE FAITHFUL

AS more than 1 billion Roman Catholics around the world observe Ash Wednesday, the first day of the Lenten season, Manila aArchbishop Luis Cardinal Antonio Tagle reminded the faithful to “travel light.” Davao Archbishop Romulo Valles, president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP),

Janet Abuel named acting Budget chief BUDGET Undersecretary Janet Abuel had been named acting chief of the Department of Budget, Malacañang said on Tuesday, a day after announcing the appointment of Benjamin Diokno as governor of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). Panelo voiced optimism that Diokno’s appointment will be approved by the Commission on Appointments since the former Budget secretary “is a man of integrity, competence and expertise.” “We have a good man there, we have an experienced man, we have an expert man, we have a man of integrity,” he said. Panelo said the budget issues thrown against Diokno would not impede the approval of his appointment. The House of Representatives accused Diokno of influencing the approval of numerous infrastructure projects and

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also reminded the Catholics of their obligation to give alms, fast and pray to repent of their sins. In a statement, Tagle said: “Today, we start preparing to journey with Jesus to Jerusalem where He will his love to us until the end.” Lent is the period of 40 days that Jesus fasted and the hours He spent

in the grave before he was resurrected. “It is difficult to travel with heavy bags and baggage,” Tagle said. During Lent, many Catholics commit to skip one full meal and abstain from meat and other luxurious habits as forms of penitence to prepare their body and spirit for Easter Sunday, a celebration of

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PACC taps other govt agencies in campaign vs graft THE Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC) has deputized top government agencies as its partners in its campaign against graft and corruption. Dante Jimenez, PACC chairman, said the initiative to deputize government agencies was in accordance with the anti-graft and corruption body’s mandate. Executive Order 43 grants the PACC the power to enlist the support of other government agencies to assist in the investigation of cases falling within their respective jurisdictions,

said Eduardo Bringas, PACC executive director. Bringas added that the deputation of these agencies would allow them to

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n Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission Chairman Dante Jimenez. PHOTO BY J. GERARD SEGUIA

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WEDNESDAY March 6, 2019

Duterte OKs family planning program P BY RALPH U. VILLANUEVA

RESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte has approved the implementation of the National Program on Family Planning, Malacañang said on Tuesday.

Duterte approved the measure during the 35th Cabinet meeting on Monday night, Palace spokesman Salvador Panelo said in a statement. The measure was presented by the Director-General of the National Economic and Development Authority Secretary Ernesto Pernia, and Executive Director of

the Commission on Population and Development Juan Antonio Perez 3rd. Panelo said the strategy would be to give 11.3 million Filipino women access to effective modern contraceptives in the next four years. This is expected to prevent 4 million unintended pregnancies and 2

million cases of abortion over the same period. Panelo said the plan would also reduce the poverty incidence in the country, which had the highest fertility rate and fastest growing population in the South East Asian region. It also aims to promote better health and socioeconomic devel-

Comelec-led debate unlikely – Jimenez THE proposed Commission on Elections (Comelec)-led debate between senate candidates of the administration-backed Hugpong ng Pagbabago (HNP) and the opposition Otso Diretso is unlikely to push through because of time constraints. Comelec spokesman James Jimenez said he was not preempting the decision of the commission en banc, but organizing a debate needs time and preparation. He noted that it is too close to the May midterm polls. “As far as the time element is concerned, it’s doubtful because we are two months away from the [May 13] elections and to be honest, organizing a debate is not an overnight job,” Jimenez told reporters. However, he said the Commission had the final say on the matter, which would be taken up during this week’s en banc session. “A formal request has been made and therefore because it is a formal request, it has to be disposed of formally as well. So, it will be brought up before the Comelec en banc and if the en banc rules on it one way or the other then we will implement,” Jimenez said. The eight-man Otso Diretso team formally made the proposal to the Comelec last week

after Davao City Mayor Sarah Duterte-Carpio, who is leading the campaign of the HNP, accepted the challenge on the condition that the debate would have ground rules. “Debates provide an avenue for voters to understand issues, and the valuers and character of the people who are courting their votes. The public deserves to know whether they are voting for their own interest, or for those of the wealthy, powerful few,” the opposition said. Meanwhile, big labor Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) said debates would help workers scrutinize candidates. “The TUCP have started the process of our own survey in determining senatorial bets that the labor center would endorse and support in the May elections,” it said in a statement. “Workers need to know more beyond what the candidates say and project themselves to be through the self-serving posters and television ads. Through these media debates, we will be able to know the true and fake among the candidates,” it added. The group said it would announce its 12 senatorial candidates a week before the May 13 polls. WILLIAM B. DEPASUPIL

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REPENT, PRAY the resurrection of Christ. Valles urged Catholics to show concern to others. “Let’s take care of our health, our hungry neighbors by restraining our appetite through fasting,” the cardinal said “My brothers and sisters, let us avail [ourselves] of the season of grace during Lent so that we would be really prepared into the joyous season of Easter,” Valles said on the Church-run Radio Veritas. Fr. Jerome Secillano, executive secretary for the CBCP-Permanent Committee on Public Affairs, told the faithful that they could take delight in

their lives, but they should not harm their souls in the process. “It is important to enjoy life while it lasts but it should not be to the detriment of our souls,” Secillano said. Fr. Edwin Gariguez, executive secretary of the CBCP’s humanitarian arm Caritas Philippines, said Ash Wednesday is a reminder that nothing is permanent. “Today, Ash Wednesday, which marks the [beginning of the] 40-day Lent, [is a reminder that] everything is temporary and has an end,” Gariguez said. CATHERINE A. MODESTO

opment among Filipinos. “We understand that a great majority of Filipinos favor family planning but not all of them have access to contraceptives due to various reasons. Accordingly, the government is here to respond and help those who wish to undergo family planning,” Panelo said.

Duterte attack a ‘good sign’ – Robredo

DIOKNO TO BSP

President Rodrigo Duterte huddles with newly appointed Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Gov. Benjamin Diokno and other officials at Malacañan Palace on Monday. MALCAÑANG PHOTO

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Janet Abuel named acting Budget chief bribing lawmakers with billions worth of funds. Panelo said President Rodrigo Duterte would appoint a permanent DBM secretary who had the same qualifications as Diokno. He squelched rumors that House Speaker Gloria Macapagal Arroyo would be the next Budget secretary. “I don’t think she will want to be in another government position after her stint as Speaker. She says so herself,” he said. House Minority Leader Danilo Suarez, however, said Diokno would still be called to attend inquiries on his involvement in numerous budget irregularities. “He has pending issues in the House. We still don’t have closure. I intend to continue hearings [and summon Diokno] if there is a need for it,” Suarez told reporters. Diokno’s colleagues in the

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82 politicians Palace spokesman Salvador Panelo said President Rodrigo Duterte was keen on releasing the list. The issue, he added, was discussed after the Cabinet meeting on Monday night. PDEA Chief Aaron Aquino revealed that 64 politicians 0n the narcolist were re-electionists. Quoting Interior Secretary Eduardo Año, Panelo said the government would file administrative and criminal cases against those in the narcolist. Government officials in the list could be suspended once the drug charges were filed. Panelo justified the looming release of the list, saying Filipinos had the right to know who were on the narcolist. “While we appreciate and understand the well-meaning individuals, saying that the release of the narcolist may violate the presumption of innocence, we’d like to tell them that the Constitution gives the people

Cabinet and the banking community welcomed the new Central Bank chief. Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez 3rd is optimistic that Diokno will be successful in leading the country’s highest monetary authority given his expertise in governance. In a message to reporters late on Monday, Dominguez said Diokno was an elusive combination of seasoned technocrat and professional manager. “He knows the inner workings of government and industry, and has repeatedly demonstrated the ability to run a large, complex organization with intellectual leadership and a steady hand,” he said. The Bankers Association of the Philippines (BAP) also declared its support for Diokno. “The BAP is optimistic that the reformist brand of leadership of the new BSP governor will pave the

the right to know matters of public concerns especially those that concern their lives and welfare,” he said. “We have placed the drug problem as a national security. In other words, we are on the precipice of destruction if we cannot stop this drug industry. We cannot allow people to run local governments — the barangay (villages) — by the destroyers of society,” he added. He said the candidates included on the list had “waived” their right to be presumed innocent. “You give people a chance to defend themselves,which is why there is a constitutional presumption of innocence. But how can you demand that you are presumed innocent when you are involved in something criminal?” he pointed out. “The due process clause applies to life, liberty or property. The release of the list does not even enter any of these [categories,] because you do not deprive them of these three things when you release the list,” he added. According to Panelo, the validated drug list was a product of wiretapped information sent

way in continuing the necessary reforms and policies to strengthen the Philippine banking industry,” it said in a statement. Bank analysts were also optimistic about Diokno’s appointment, but claimed that he faces challenges in his new post. BDO Unibank Inc. chief market strategist Jonathan Ravelas said Diokno has a bird’s eye view of the economy and would be able to fine tune what’s needed to support economic growth shifting from the current 6 percent expansion to a higher gear. “The challenge he faces is assuring investors that the Central Bank will stay independent and faithful to its critical role; that it is the glue holding the economy together,” he said. GLEE JALEA,RALPH EDWIN VILLANUEVA, MAYVELIN U. CARABALLO AND TYRONE JASPER PIAD

by other countries. The Palace official said Israel, the US, Russia and China “voluntarily” provided the Philippines with vital information on the drug suspects. “All countries help each other in fighting terrorism and criminality. In the course of this cooperation, they give information,” he said. The spokesman said there was nothing wrong with other countries wiretapping suspected Filipino criminals. “There are no laws saying it is illegal to provide us with information. In fact, we should be thankful that we are provided with information relative to criminal activities in the country,” Panelo said. He downplayed the warning of the Commission on Human Rights that the release of the narcolist would result in violence. “It’s a fair game for all candidates who are involved in the drug industry. They know what they are doing is something that is destructive of the fabric of society. So when their names are listed there, they take that risk,” he said.

PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte’s attack against the candidates of Otso Diretso was proof that the opposition bets have a fighting chance, Vice President Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo said on Tuesday. Robredo said “it was a good sign” that Duterte himself mentioned the candidates “Noong nalaman ko na pinangalanan isa-isa ng Pangulo iyong mga kandidato ng Otso Diretso, ‘yun ‘yung pagpapakita na nagpipick up na sila. Kasi kung hindi naman sila relevant, hindi na sila papansinin (When I learned that the President took time to mention the Otso Diretso candidates one by one, it means that all of them have potential. Because if they are not relevant, they will not be noticed),” Robredo said. Duterte had said Otso Diretso candidates were headed straight to hell because all they did was criticize the administration. Robredo reiterated her call on the opposition slate to have a debate with the administration candidates to see where they stand on pressing issues. Otso Diretso bets told Duterte they were “doing their jobs.” “Mr. President, the opposition’s job is to criticize what this administration has done wrong. Do not take it personally, we’re just doing our job,” former solicitor general Florin Hilbay said. Human rights lawyer Jose Manuel “Chel” Diokno, whom Duterte mocked for trying to speak like his father, the late senator Jose “Pepe” Diokno, said leaders should be strengthened “by pointing out what they are doing that is wrong.” “It is the duty of the opposition to question, criticize and give alternative solutions on how the administration could be better. I hope the President is not that sensitive. That is the essence of democracy,” Diokno said. Meanwhile, Magdalo party-listRep. Gary Alejano defended his party from Duterte’s criticisms, noting that he should not underestimate the sacrifices of Magdalo and soldiers who rose in revolt to denounce corruption.

GLEE JALEA

Aquino, however, said he was against the release of the narcolist before the midterm elections. In a news briefing, Aquino said he had not changed his stand on the issue. “It’s not true that PDEA will release the narcolist. First and foremost, we still remain on my stand from the start [that] I don’t want the list to be revealed or to be disclosed even before the filing of COCs (certificate of candidacy),” he said. Aquino previously said he would prefer to file charges against narcopoliticians “quietly” instead of publicizing the list. Año earlier said the narcolist would be released to guide voters. Aquino said there are 82 names on the list because Datu Salibo, Maguindanao Mayor Franco Salasal was stricken off the list after his arrest for murder and illegal possession of firearms on February 24. “It’s down to 82 narco-politicians. If it is going to be revealed next week, I just hope we can finish the revalidation of the list,” he said.

WITH ROY D.R. NARRA

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AS TARIFF LAW TAKES EFFECT

Enrile warns vs too much reliance on imported rice FORMER Senate president Juan Ponce Enrile on Tuesday warned against “overdependence” on imported rice amid the implementation this week of Republic Act 11203 or the “Rice Tariffication Law.” As the new law takes effect, the National Food Authority (NFA) will cease to regulate international and domestic rice trading in view of the removal of importation limits on rice from the international market. Enrile, who is seeking a fifth term in the Senate in the May elections, said overdependence on imported rice might pose a threat to national security. Food is the “most basic security item of the country” and rice selfsufficiency would be integral to national security, he explained. “We must not accustom our people to rely or become overly dependent on imported rice. We cannot allow other countries to be the supplier of essential item for survival,” he said. “That’s food. We must produce it here. We will only import the deficit between our supply, our domestic supply and those that cannot be answered by that supply or the demand of the people,” the former Senate president said. To allay fears that the law will hurt farmers, government officials highlighted that revenue earned from tariffs would go to the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund, amounting to P10 billion, which seeks to provide better equipment and services to modernize the local rice farming industry. If elected, Enrile said he would call for further studies on the implementation of the rice tariffication law since several sectors will be affected — including consumers and farmers.

The veteran lawmaker said investing in research and development in the local rice industry would help protect the four million farmers who would be affected by the rice tariffication law. “Because we do not have unlimited land for rice and corn production, we should allocate adequate public funds for research and development to increase the productivity of our available rice and corn lands,” Enrile said. Rice farmers also expressed grave concern on how the law would be implemented, citing alleged loopholes. In a news briefing on Tuesday, Federation of Free Farmers President Raul Montemayor said several provisions of the Implementing Rules and Regulations were “problematic.” “That’s the first problem in this law. Instead of just tariffication, it ended up to the total deregulation of the [rice] industry,” he said. The removal of NFA’s regulatory functions, Montemayor said, would lead to a chaotic rice trade in the country. He said there should be a body to monitor the legality of the importation of rice. “Licensing is a normal act of government. It’s not an anti-trade regulation. We cannot understand why they removed that. It’s not just the importers [but also] all the way down to retailers will not be required with licenses. So how can you track the movement of rice? It will be hard now,” Montemayor added. “If smuggling is so prevalent now that we have monitoring of legal imports, how much more if you don’t have these regulations?” he said. BERNADETTE E. TAMAYO AND EIREENE JAIREE GOMEZ

WEDNESDAY March 6, 2019

2019 budget yet to reach Palace – Lacson

BY JAVIER JOE ISMAEL

EN. Panfilo Lacson on Tuesday said the 2019 national budget is doomed because it has yet to be transmittted to Malacañang, forcing the government to continue to operate on a reenacted budget. Lacson said he would raise this legal issue in the Senate to inform senators of the “scheme” that the House of Representatives resorted to in order to manipulate the ratified bicameral committee report. “Based on information shared by several members of the HOR (House of Representatives) themselves, and I completely agree, Speaker Gloria Arroyo has no business and legal authority to prepare and impose the menu list of the DoH (Department of Health) appropriations for

Health Facilities Enhancement Program worth P25 million in individual allocations for her favored congressmen, including a P2.5-million allocation for the purchase of an ambulance, while only P8 million are being distributed to those who did not support her election as speaker,” the senator said. “I maintain, and I trust that majority of my colleagues in the Senate will agree, that such realignments ordered by Speaker Arroyo prior to the printing of the proposed 2019 budget is

clearly unconstitutional and inappropriate. The House as a body has the sole power to make the amendments, not the Speaker, and certainly not after the ratification of the bicameral report,” he added. “Senate President Vicente Sotto 3rd and Speaker Arroyo will be certifying that the enrolled bill is the one that was approved in plenary by the whole Senate as a body, which if altered, as it is being altered by the House, will no longer be the original bill that we approved and ratified. It means he will be complicit in violating the constitution.” House leaders were quick to defend Arroyo. Minority Leader Danilo Suarez said such “allegations” might have been the result of “collateral damage” coming from lawmakers who did not support Arroyo’s vision. “Those were allegations. Apparently those who were not

given enough funds for their program for 2019 and apparently some of those did not support her on her vision, I call it collateral damage,” Suarez told reporters. House appropriations committee Chairman Rolando Andaya Jr. also denied the allegations, claiming that the Speaker and the Senate President were not involved in the process of discussing the budget. “The House is itemizing the appropriations, fleshing out lumpsum funds without departing from the approved specifications of the House-Senate approved budget, and by so doing, make the budget more transparent and easy to scrutinize,” he said. “If the procedure being undertaken by the House is illegal, then the Senate is equally guilty if on its part it had itemized the pet amendments on the budget by the senators,” he added. WITH GLEE JALEA

AQUINO’S NEXT TARGET: JOBS BILL AFTER pushing for the enactment of the Free College Law, Sen. Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino 4th would focus on addressing unemployment and jobs mismatch. The senator on Tuesday said that if reelected in May, he would immediately file a measure that would ensure job opportunities for college graduates. Aquino, principal sponsor of the free tuition law, noted that

1 out of 5 Filipinos had jobs not suitable to their courses. “The first measure I will file if given the chance to return to the Senate will be the Trabaho Sigurado Bill to allow students to find jobs based on the course they took,” he said. “Pushing for the Trabaho Sigurado Bill or addressing the job mismatch is the necessary best reform after the free col-

lege law,” Aquino said during a forum held at the Ateneo de Manila University. He earlier filed Senate Bill (SB) 1278 or “Trabaho Centers in Schools Act,” which seeks to establish job placement offices in public high schools and state universities and colleges (SUCs). It mandates the establishment of a Trabaho Center in every

public high school and SUC with main services that include industry matching, career counseling and employment facilitation. SB 1278 aims to address the skills mismatch and ensure employability of students upon graduation by using feedback from employers to better develop the school’s curriculum and training programs. BERNADETTE E. TAMAYO

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E d i to r i a l Diokno's new BSP job: Balance growth and price stability

ormer Budget secretary Benjamin Diokno now finds himself on the other side of the economic policy fence as the newly minted governor of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), the institution that handles the levers of monetary policy and regulates the banking system. For most of his professional life, Diokno was on the fiscal policy side, having served as budget undersecretary (1986 to 1991) during the administration of President Corazon Aquino and budget secretary to President Joseph Estrada (1998 to 2001). He returned to government as part of President Rodrigo Duterte’s economic team, reprising the role of budget chief from June 2016 up to his appointment to the BSP this week. As an expert on fiscal policy, and with a doctorate from Syracuse University in New York, Diokno helped craft the Comprehensive Tax Reform Program, whose key elements were simplified income taxation and a shift to the valueadded tax (VAT). He was also instrumental in the realization of the Duterte wave of tax reforms under the first package of the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (Train) Law. In between these posts, Diokno served as economics professor at the University of the Philippines (UP), whose School of Economics is the center of rigorous, quantitative economic analysis. He was among the UP professors who sounded the alarm of a fiscal crisis early during the Arroyo administration and recommended reforming the VAT system to significantly raise tax revenues. As a newspaper columnist, his views were influential, albeit overly critical of the economic policies of the administrations of presidents Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and Benigno Aquino 3rd. It strikes us as odd that not a few eyebrows were raised by Duterte’s appointment of Diokno, which admittedly took many observers of economic policy by surprise. The first two governors of the BSP, Gabriel Singson and Rafael Buenaventura, were bankers from the private sector. The next two, Amando Tetangco and the late Nestor Espenilla Jr., were quintessential insiders whose appointments boosted the morale of the career BSP staff. Diokno may not be an insider or a banker, but he is not the first outsider to become governor of the BSP; it is also not unusual to appoint professional economists to the central bank, as in the case of Alan Greenspan and Ben Bernanke of the US Federal Reserve. With Diokno being a veteran policymaker and highly trained economist, there should be no question that he is eminently qualified for the job. The question is what Diokno will bring into the job as central bank governor. For one, a fresh perspective from an economist may be much welcome at the central bank after it had long been dominated by seasoned bankers or banking regulators. As he tries his hand on monetary policy, his decisions or recommendations would be guided by his long experience in fiscal policy and its role in supporting economic growth. Diokno will have to strike a fine balance between supporting economic growth and achieving the BSP’s mandate, which is to ensure the stability of prices. Both objectives are not necessarily contradictory, and we believe Diokno possesses the professionalism and integrity to shield monetary policy from political influence. What may need a closer watch is what Diokno has left behind at the Department of Budget and Management and the pressures it gets from some politicians. We note that Diokno's new appointment came after a very public tussle with the House of Representatives over the budget process and public works allocations. Duterte has found his central bank governor; now the new budget secretary must carry on the fight for reform and against corruption while ensuring the administration's priority projects get proper funding allocations.

WEDNESday March 6, 2019

The Manila Times

VOLUME 120 NUMBER 144

Dante A. Ang, Chairman Emeritus Rene Q. Bas, Publisher Emeritus Nerilyn A. Tenorio, Publisher-Editor Arnold E. Belleza, Executive Editor Felipe F. Salvosa II, Managing Editor Leena C. Chua, News Editor Lynette O. Luna, National Editor Tessa Mauricio-Arriola, Lifestyle Editor Perry Gil Mallari, Sports Editor Lea Manto-Beltran, Supplements Editor Jomar canlas, Chief of Reporters Rene H. Dilan, Chief Photographer Dante F. M. Ang 2nd, President and CEO Blanca C. Mercado, Chief Operating Officer Roda A. Zabat, Advertising Director Vicente P. Cruz, Jr., Circulation Director Denise O. Calnea, Marketing Communications and Services Director Telephone All Departments: 524-5665 to 66; Subscription: 524-5664 Local 222 Advertising: 524-5664 Local 121 Telefax: 310-5895 or e-mail advertising@manilatimes.net www.manilatimes.net • e-mail newsdesk@manilatimes.net Letters to the Editor THE MANILA TIMES is published daily at 2/F Sitio Grande, 409 A. Soriano Avenue, Intramuros, Manila 1002 The owners, managers, publishers and editors do not necessarily share the opinions expressed and the statements made by individual authors of columns, commentaries and other articles published in The Manila Times.

Choosing Senate candidates to vote for

T’s been said by some that Filipinos are not intelligent voters. And for that reason, we end up with the many corrupt and/or incompetent officials that we now have in government. I don’t agree with the premise. I believe that majority of us sufficiently analyze the qualifications of the candidates before deciding who to vote for. Unfortunately, it is also true that there are some voters who then allow their choices to be influenced and eventually altered, oftentimes because of financial considerations. But maybe I’m not completely right. Filipino voters may be intelligent, but they just don’t know, or may not be concerned about, what is required for a candidate to qualify for a particular government position. Without that knowledge, it wouldn’t be easy therefore to make a wellthought out choice. If this is so, then the first step should perhaps be to research on what a particular elected position requires so that we can then match the qualifications of each candidate against that set standard. We can thus make more intelligent choices. In a recent meeting of the

Let’s face IT!

gus lagman Namfrel (National Citizens Movement for Free Elections) National Council, I asked a co-member, UP professor and former dean of the UP College of Public Administration, Edna Co, if we could request some of her colleagues and student researchers to come up with a list of what they believe are the functions of the Senate/senators, this being the highest elective position in the May 2019 elections. The idea, of course, is to provide voters with a tool that they could use to compare the qualifications of every senatorial candidate, to see if those match the competencies necessary to perform their jobs efficiently and effectively. Fortunately, Co was gracious enough to accede to our request. And so, we have below a “job description” that we can use to guide us when we make our choices. Senate functions: Do the competencies of a candidate for the

senatorial seat match with the functions? What kind of person do we need for the Senate? The main functions of the Senate (and its members) may be classified in general as follows: 1. Ratification of treaties which requires a 2/3 majority vote of the entire Senate. 2 . Ad va n c i n g l e g i s l a t i o n through the following: 2.1. Representation: The will of the people is consulted and accommodated when making public policies. 2.2. Developing and debating legislative proposals perhaps through conversation with the executive branch and with lobbyists and in a discussion with legislative colleagues. In this exercise, the senator may receive briefings from staff, groups, agencies, media, etc. and may participate in floor debates, prepare statements, persuade the undecided, and do political negotiations. 2.3. Constituency service: Outreach, gathering of information on programs, casework to provide assistance on problems with agencies, providing nominations to service agencies, arranging visits or tours in towns and communities.

2.4 Oversight and investigation Laws are administered according to intent. In this regard, members of the Senate should prepare for: casework activity, process of authorizing and appropriating funds for the executive branch in committee hearings, investigating hearings. 1. Manifest congressional leadership. This means leading negotiations within the party on legislative issues and mediating conflicts among members of some party leadership in party caucuses or conferences. 2. Personnel office management: This includes legislative research, materials for study and constituency service. 3. In exceptional cases and when called for, the Senate members serve as jury during impeachment proceedings of a President or of a Chief Justice. The functions of a senator are enormous and serious. Do candidates for the Senate realize the seriousness of the post? (P.S. Note that popularity, basketball prowess, acting ability, financial power, are not an advantage in the performance of the above functions. However, there is one very important “must have” qualification that I would add: integrity!)

Popularity is the most important thing in the world midweek T comments

HE midterm elections of 2019 are just a validation of what we have known all along. To win a Senate seat, issues do not matter. One and only one thing matters — popularity. As Homer Simpson once told his son Bart, “Son, being popular is the most important thing in the world.” That eminently applies in the current Senate campaign. Exhibit A is the Senate candidate from my province, Lito Lapid, currently unbeatable in the Senate race, according to the polling of the mainstream survey firms. His popularity has placed him very high not just in one or two, but in all surveys of possible winners. In fact, he has never been out of the top six choices of the survey respondents. (The most recent one placed him at No. 3.) And with more than 50 percent of possible voters all certain on the choices they will make in the May Senate elections. What makes him one big winner of 2019, at least from the reckoning of the mainstream polling entities? It is not intellectual power. It is not an impressive track record of legislation. It is not an impressive agenda, at least for his current Senate run. It is not his towering integrity. It is not scholarship or his academic credentials. The reason for his impressive showing in the surveys is — or was — his major role in a primetime TV action-drama, a role that essentially recaptured his lost

marlen V. ronquillo acting luster and popularity. With millions of viewers tuned in to that very popular TV series most nights, there was no way former senator Lapid could lose in the 2019 senatorial elections. Before getting that major role in that prime-time TV series, which exposed him to voters night after night after night, the verdict was that Mr. Lapid was a has-been, his political career over and done with. But presence on the boob tube changed all that. For the 2016 elections, the former Pampanga governor and senator scrapped his Porac registration and moved to Angeles City, to run for city mayor and challenge the popular incumbent,Ed Pamintuan. Mr. Lapid was beaten badly, with Pamintuan getting 76,540 votes against the 45,710 votes of Lapid. With that loss and his record as barely a winner in his last senatorial attempt, many had dismissed the political career of Lapid for good. A long-running, very popular prime-time TV action-drama resurrected his popularity and his political career. Look where Mr. Lapid is now. He does not need to articulate on issues. He does not need to build a nationwide campaign organization. He does not need to go

into those TV debates, where he would be interrogated on issues by political hacks probably as unprepared on issues as Mr. Lapid. He can shun media interviews. He does not need to rise up to the debate challenge of the Ocho Diretso Senate team. No need to have his campaign staff go into those tiring and boring SWOT analysis. Best of all, he does not need a hefty campaign chest to score an impressive win. His popularity will carry him through the last stretches of 2019. To think that one candidate, according to investigative journalists, spent more than P400 million even before the campaign period formally started to introduce himself to Filipino voters. He does not even need the endorsement of President Duterte and the backing of a major political party. The extreme popularity of Mr. Lapid makes him a winner. In contrast, the poor to average awareness and recognition percentages of those in the mainstream opposition, except for Mar Roxas who ran for president in the 2016 elections, are what drive their poor standing in the surveys. Voters do not essentially care for names they do not recognize. Political science is hard put in explaining why voters do not vote for the candidates with no name recognition. (That challenge to political science is universal.) The reason is political scientists just do not want to admit that most Filipino voters lack discernment,

that most Filipino voters lack basic curiosity, that most Filipino voters do not want to intrude into the boring field of policy stand and issues bannered by the Senate candidates. The problem with these is that elections are supposed to be sacred and sacrosanct, the most important exercise in a democracy. If elections fail, democracy fails. Thus, nations fail. Popularity-driven elections, in effect, lead to a nightmarish failure. But there will be no reset. Or reversing of course. The 2019 elections will elect Lito, Bong and Jinggoy, overwhelmingly and without remorse, because they are popular. And popularity, again as Homer Simpson told his son, is the most important thing in the world. There was a time, men of my age would often say, when senators were called “solons,” and they deliberated in halls they called “august chambers.” They debated and deliberated hard and passed laws that built the legal infrastructure of a young nation. Voters in the old days looked at the resumés of their senatorial candidates, from their university degrees to their past professional lives, which led to the election of men and women of towering intellect and integrity into the Senate. Today, popularity is the most important thing in the world and the brutal wage of that shallow reckoning is legislative mediocrity at best, and a nightmarish, grander failure at worst—the failure of a venerable institution of democracy.

˜ The Manila Times

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wednesday March 6, 2019

Opinion

n tiglao From A1

Rappler’s Ressa is a colossal con man The reality is that she is a well-off American citizen, who acquired Filipino citizenship in 2004 to make it legally easier for her to work as a manager at ABS-CBN Broadcasting, a media company where foreigners are banned by the Constitution from participating. T h e Ra p p l e r we b s i t e s h e claims to be leading the fight against a strongman President was set up in 2011, initially as a weapon for President Aquino’s assault against the Supreme Court by removing Chief Justice Renato Corona. It was its reckless, journalistically unprofessional undertaking of that role that got it in serious legal trouble. It posted a libelous report that Corona was using an SUV provided by a businessman, whom it identified by name and whom it claimed was engaged in “human trafficking and drug smuggling.” The businessman of course was so angry to be maligned as such, and filed the libel suit. After that aim of removing the Chief Justice was achieved, Rappler has been the Yellow regime’s apologist, financed in so many ways by government contracts and a Yellow oligarch’s covert financial support.

US mouthpiece Parallel to that role has been its function as the mouthpiece for US interests, its neoconservative ideology and its anti-China racism, compensated by a P100million funding from American outfits North Base Media and Omidyar Network, two entities known to advance US political and economic dogmas in the world. (Omidyar Network promised to bankroll Ressa’s legal defense with a $500,000 kitty.)

That got Rappler into another serious legal trouble. First, in taking that foreign money, it violated the Constitution’s ban on foreign participation in media, a fact which Ressa appears to have been ignorant of as Rappler even boasted about it in an article. Ressa tried to wiggle out of that legal trouble by claiming that the investment was in the form of securities. But she only dug her quagmire even deeper, as Rappler failed to pay capital gains taxes of P133 million in issuing those securities. She’s lied to the world to cover up these boo-boos, claiming these suits were simply Duterte’s way of shutting her up. Ressa has taken her citizenship duties quite seriously — her American citizenship, that is. She has voted in nearly all US national elections, the last one on Nov. 18, 2016 for the presidential elections that year. She has never voted in Philippine elections.

Under US protection Contrary to her portrayal as a hapless journalist struggling against a powerful state, she is under the protection of the world’s most powerful nation, the US, whose embassy here quickly issued a statement after her arrest that it expected Ressa’s case “to be resolved quickly in accordance with relevant Philippine law and international standards of due process.” Unless she perjured herself in her US voter’s registration, Ressa’s residence is in an upperclass suburb in Monroe, Orange County in New York. The median income in Ressa’s neighborhood is $160,000, according to US census data, putting her in the top 8-percent income bracket in the US. A property

n Ressa’s Orange County, New York home, according to ‘Google Street View’; inset, facsimile of aUS firm’s report on her voter registration (exact address blocked out). a block away from Ressa’s resi- campaign to paint the country dence was being advertised for black, as one moving towards sale at $520,000 (P27 million). dictatorship and successfully For the CEO of a website that suppressing the press. provides beggarly salaries to Only a week ago, the New its staff, who are told that they York Times prominently run are part of a glorious crusade, a front-page article titled “A Ressa, sources claimed, lives in Journalist Trolled by Her Own a posh Bonifacio Global Village Government,” with its lead condominium, where the rent paragraph being: “Harassing is at least P150,000 per month. journalists is one of Rodrigo What bolsters the truth of this Duterte’s specialties.” claim is that Ressa went to the How many of the NYT’s 5 milextent of violating the Securities lion print and digital subscriband Exchange Commission’s ers in the US and in the world reportorial requirements and will bother to investigate if the refused to report her residence. article’s preposterous claims In documents submitted to the on this unimportant country SEC, in which incorporators of are accurate? How many will Rappler Inc. and then Rappler simply accept the “venerable” Holdings are required to report Times ’ claims on bad things their residences, Ressa reported supposedly happening in this hers as Rappler’s first headquar- far-off country? ters (at Antel Global Center), Re s s a ’s c l a i m t h a t s h e i s instead of her residence. “trolled by her government” All of the other incorpora- has been totally disproven tors complied with the SEC with a recent unprecedented regulations and reported their development: Over 40,000 (as residential addresses. of submission deadline for this column) Filipinos here and A fraud in the US have signed a petition through the unassailable We have to report details on change.org asking the Justice Ressa to expose her as a fraud, department to revoke her Filias she hasn’t let up on her pino citizenship. Can she claim

Of colors and symbols of EDSA

ROM a historical perspective, a lapse of 33 years after an episode is still much of a current event stretched out over a contemporary period. It is a photograph of a moment still subject to alterations. Volumes have been written about EDSA, what happened on Feb. 22-25, 1986 and their consequences on the country and the lives of its people. My piece today is an attempt to shed light on current political realities and ongoing conflicts using EDSA as a backdrop, consequently contributing to the literature that future historians may ponder on. The current animosities between the Yellow army and the DDS are derivatives of the conflicted interpretations of EDSA. These are not merely a grudge fight between two political families, two sets of traditional politicians or two camps of the oligarchy, as they were framed then, nor are they a classic struggle between the forces of good and evil. It’s more complicated than a simple delineation of political fault lines between protagonists. First, just the facts as I recall them. Those euphoric days of February are the Reformers’ version by those installed to power in the aftermath of a dictator’s ignominious exit. Victors have the prerogative to write their account for history — thus this was called and celebrated in subsequent years as a Revolution. It was then unpopular to contradict the appellation lest you invite the wrath of the millions who made it happen. Only much later, when the air had sufficiently cleared, emotions abated, expectations unmet and the “tradpols ” and the oligarchy crawled back and were allowed to assume their places in the new order, that another version was proffered. Academics and those indignantly left outside of the power structure were emboldened to pronounce this as merely a “local uprising,” not a revolution, since EDSA was confined only to the capital region and there were no

lito monico c. lorenzana structural changes, blah, blah, blah. This narrative disavows the people’s seething anger towards the dictatorship and all that it stood for. These pockets of rage epitomized by the weekly Friday protest were replicated in cities, towns and villages, building up towards the climax — our Edsa People Power Revolution. It was indeed a start of the revolution. Whether unfinished, aborted or captured, we leave that to future historians to judge — perhaps centuries from today. Juan Ponce Enrile, Marcos’ defense secretary has another interpretation. “…EDSA People Power 1 should be commemorated on February 22, not February 25. That was when we bet our lives. That was when we gambled our lives for the benefit of the country.” (Philippine Daily Inquirer) Hogwash! Enrile and his cohorts indeed gambled their lives to save their hides. It was a coldblooded attempt at a coup d’état that failed. Were it not for the masses of ordinary citizens, some of whom were clueless, and the intervention of Gen. Fidel Ramos and the forces loyal to him, the carcasses of these putschists would have been quartered and drawn. FVR, who had been loyal to cousin Marcos and a professional soldier, took the side of the masses and thus became a hero — all transgressions and past faults and his role during Martial Law forgotten and forgiven. He was later anointed as Cory’s political successor. The Marcos minions have a revisionist take. There was no revolution, but an uprising precipitated by a faction of the armed forces with the connivance of the American government; whereupon, they boarded an American plane and were kidnapped to Hawaii, not flown to Paoay. So, after three decades, these

changing versions reinforce my premise that unless all the participants have said their piece and to a man have gone to their graves — including this columnist — all these are still current events. One can’t accelerate history’s judgment on whether EDSA was a revolution, uprising or a coup d’état. We must await a longer passage of time. What is certain is that EDSA polarized our country and the schism is deep. For one, Yellow was ardently adopted as the color of hope by the anti-Marcos forces, including the Liberal Party, PDP-Laban and some segments of the politicized Catholic Church hierarchy for the singular promise of a housewife to simply reinstate her limited concept of democracy and freedom and seek justice for the assassination of a husband and return the wealth stolen by the conjugal dictatorship. There was no clear strategy for systemic socioeconomic-political restructuring as this was beyond the ken of a housewife-turned-politician. Later, it was a perception by the progressive allies that the cabal of traditional politicians in cahoots with a new set of oligarchy captured the revolution and established a new order protected by the 1987 Constitution. President Fidel V. Ramos succeeding Cory had progressive programs of government but was likewise stymied by the same 1987 Constitution. Cory and Cardinal Sin collaborated to frustrate FVR’s attempt at constitutional revisions. Although the rift between Cory and FVR opened, Yellow and what it symbolized continued to be FVR’s color. But FVR dropped the “L” of Cory’s Laban sign and substituted his Lakas “thumbs-up.” FVR stopped wearing Yellow and tried to reach out to his friends and colleagues among the “Marcos pa rin diehards” whose martial law colors were Red and Blue. FVR truly wanted to bridge the gap between the Yellows and Red & Blues. He failed.

Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, the daughter of a respected President and a protegee of President Cory, fared no better revising the Cory constitution. The 2005 Consultative Commission (ConCom) was constituted to initiate efforts to amend the 1987 Constitution to shift to a parliamentary-federal form of government with a liberalized economy. She failed. Arroyo’s administration was fraught with accusations of corruption, leading to her plunder case and subsequent incarceration. At first supported by the Cory people, the Yellow members in cabinet abandoned her en masse over an election anomaly questioning the legitimacy of her presidency. This marked the final break between the Yellows of Cory and Gloria’s administration. This cleavage was further exacerbated by the subsequent assumption to power of an incompetent son and buried whatever good was left of the legacy of a once popular mother — resulting in her vilification. Cory’s death propelled the son to victory. In return, her son hammered the final nail to her good memory. Cory’s Yellow of hope worn by millions morphed into the pejorative Yellow of PNoy. Such is one of the tragedies of EDSA. Today the forces of EDSA in several permutations are arrayed anew; PNoy’s Liberal Party Yellows with their “L” symbol, faced against the expedient alliance of the Red and Blue of DDS, the PDP-Laban and remnants of the Marcos Loyalists, cemented by the formidable DU30 “fist pump” that mimics the powerful “Sieg Heil” of epochs past; and on the sidelines are what remains of the memory of Cory’s tattered army. The latter lost its franchise over the Yellow and is no longer identified by any color; perhaps White, the presence of all colors; perhaps Black, an absence of. So, 33 years after the EDSA People Power Revolution, nothing has changed; yet everything has changed. A conundrum!

these 40,000 are Duterte trolls? Just to cover up for her website’s libelous articles, and her boo-boo as a CEO that led to tax-evasion charges, Ressa has seriously damaged the Philippines’ and its media’s reputation in the world. In contrast to Ressa, the owners of the Philippine Daily Inquirer — which had been more critical of Duterte — when faced with a tax-evasion case and told to relinquish their hold on a lucrative government-owned Mile Long property, didn’t cry to the world that theirs was a case of press suppression.

Delicadeza Since she is an American, we can’t expect Ressa to have a sense of delicadeza. Whether the libel suit was under Duterte’s direction or not, the Rappler report claiming a businessman was into “human trafficking and illegal drugs” was so patently libelous, which Ressa as the site’s editor should not have allowed to be posted, and even updated. Contrast her stance to that of former Top Gear Philippines editor Vernon Sarne who immediately resigned his post, when faced with a libel suit that appeared to have some validity. Ressa has been able to get away with her lies partly because, especially in the case of American media, such claims fit their narrative — after Duterte expressed his disdain toward the US and launched his war against illegal drugs — of a global drift towards authoritarianism. Western journalists, since the Philippines is really an unimportant country for them in their world, have been too lazy to fact-check Ressa’s false claims. In all of Western media’s un-

questioning coverage of Ressa’s claims, there is absolutely no report at all on who filed the cyberlibel suit against her and what the charges entail. They simply swallowed hook, line and sinker Ressa’s claim that the charge was merely Duterte’s way of harassing Rappler, for its “critical” coverage of his administration. Not a single Western article reported that Rappler’s libelous article was posted as part of its enthusiastic, mercenary participation in Aquino 3rd’s campaign to remove Chief Justice Corona, or that the tax-evasion case was because of its attempt to wiggle out of the constitutional ban on foreigners in media. Ressa also speaks the way Americans do, and as a former broadcast journalist she knows how to use sound-bites, such as “hold the line” and “weaponizing” laws. Ressa is an American citizen who even conscientiously votes in US elections, and has an upper-class residence in New York. Except once in 2004, she uses a US passport in her numerous travels to her country and in the world. US media and even the American embassy swiftly went to her defense when an arrest warrant was issued against her. Rappler is funded by US entities, and has always echoed American views, especially that on the South China Sea territorial disputes. There is a certainly a case for the claim that Rappler has been the US’ media instrument in the Philippines, much more intrusive and dangerous as it is in the new media of the world wide web.

Email: tiglao.manilatimes@ gmail.com Facebook: Rigoberto Tiglao Twitter: @bobitiglao Archives at: www.rigobertotiglao.com

Criminality, school dropout and gender equality By Jan Lundius STOCKHOLM/ROME (IPS): I assume it was the Swedish author Stieg Larsson´s Millenium trilogy (20052007) that generated the popularity of Scandinavian Crime Fiction, as well numerous movies and TV-series that followed in its wake. A typical Nordic Noir novel takes place within a gloomy landscape of dreary towns, or a semi-deserted countryside, where under the thin surface of an apparently wellordered society, murder, misogyny, rape, racism and international crime syndicates are thriving. As a Swede with my roots in a sleepy provincial town where nothing sinister seemed to happen I was inclined to consider Nordic Noir as some kind of Scandinavian magic realism, quite removed from Swedish everyday life. However, reality seems to be changing. In Sweden, as well as in the rest of the world, men are losing their traditional hold on power, as well as occupations that once craved more physical strength than brain power quickly are disappearing, making a woman just as capable as a man to manage any branch of human activities. A development that makes several young men bewildered and foster feelings of powerlessness and misogyny. During a brief visit to my hometown I recently had a cup of coffee in one of the cafés and became involved in a discussion with one of the locals who use to hang around there. He was a retired police officer and told me: — Things are changing fast around here. We are now getting our fair share of drug pushers and violent crime. Criminals are better connected, have more money, improved mobility and they actively recruit young guys around here. Youngsters who do not know anything, have dropped out of school and thus cannot get a decent job. They believe through crime they might become somebody, earn money and gain some respect.

Most of them are as lost there as they were in school. I hope he did not talk about any of my former pupils. I had for some years worked as a high school teacher in my hometown. When I made my first stint as teacher, not one of my pupils had dropped out, though when I 20 years later returned to the same school, five boys and one girl disappeared from my classes during their first year. Something had happened, but I was unsure of how and why. In Sweden, women in 2006 surpassed men in educational attainment, and, since then, the gender gap has been widening. In 2016, 48 percent of Swedish women had at least two years of tertiary education, while the corresponding level for men was 35 percent. Gender ratio for applicants to higher education was 60 percent women and 40 percent men. PISA results from 2012 demonstrated that school performance of Swedish boys was considerably lower than that of girls and this gap was bigger than in any other OECD country. It was speculated that Swedish boys’ extensive computer gaming stole time from their homework. The situation was described as a national crisis and Swedish school policies are currently being overhauled. In virtually all countries and economies girls do on average outperform boys in reading. Even if gender differences in science performance tend to be small, the share of top performers in science and mathematics is generally larger among boys than among girls. However, with every year this tendency is changing. Even if Finland currently is the only country in which girls are more likely to be top performers in science, other countries are approaching the same condition, while in Finland, Macao, Albania, Macedonia, Georgia, Jordan, Malaysia, Qatar and Trinidad/Tobago, girls scored higher than boys in mathematics. In the United Arab Emirates

äIPSA6

Opinion

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wednesday March 6, 2019

Walking away, but not out

EARLY half a century ago, for those who paid attention — for professional or private reasons — to the then raging Vietnam War, the “Hanoi Hilton” was a particularly harsh prisoner-of-war detention camp. The late American war hero and later senator John McCain famously spent time there, as did many others. It was perhaps one of the then potent symbols of the warring antagonism between Vietnam and the United States. Fast forward to today, another, this time truly hospitable, hotelchain address crops up in the Vietnamese capital Hanoi, and it is Sofitel, the site of the second summit between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. I have previously written about the pragmatism and neutrality exhibited by Southeast Asian nations in general, and Vietnam in particular, which was perhaps why the summit between two erstwhile hostile nuclear powers landed twice in this part of the world. The expectations for a fruitful outcome from the summit were understandably high not only in the greater East Asian region but indeed in the world. The Singapore summit between Trump and Kim was very useful as an ice breaker between the two leaders and their countries. And the outcomes there were perhaps grand in principles but a bit sketchy in the details. Many observers yearned for a timetable for peace on the Korean Peninsula, characterized by denuclearization and a lifting of sanctions to be reached at the Hanoi summit. And the initial signs were good, with Trump and Kim having greeted each other warmly,

ei sun oh certainly more on the part of Trump who had previously coldly received many other leaders of supposedly US allies. The handholding and waist-slapping were frequent as Trump and Kim faced the media together in at least four occasions during the summit, making positive statements and taking questions in turn. I could recall at least three such seemingly “optimistic” moments during the public phases of the Hanoi summit. One was when Trump, in his characteristically hyperbolic choice of words and sitting beside Kim, praised North Korea for its “tremendous” economic potential, adding that they were “unlimited” and “unbelievable” (in a positive sense). Without having to wait for the interpreter to translate, Kim put up a big smile upon hearing those admittedly grandiose adjectives in English, perhaps testifying to his command of the language, having studied in Switzerland in his earlier years. Indeed, the famed diligence of the North Koreans, coupled with their abundant resources, would certainly propel the North Korean economy significantly forward, if only the worldwide economic sanctions against the hitherto reclusive country are lifted. Many perhaps lost sight of the fact that up till the later parts of 1960s, when nuclearization-triggered sanctions were not yet imposed, the North Korean economy was

at least comparable both in size and level to its South Korean counterpart. So, when Trump painted a rosy picture for North Korea’s economic future, many took that as a hint of the possible lifting of the crippling sanctions. Another somewhat “optimistic” moment was when Trump and Kim finally got to sit across the negotiating table but reporters were still aplenty nearby. Someone asked Kim if he would welcome the idea of setting up a US liaison office in his country. Trump actually followed up with that question, saying aloud to Kim that he too would like to know the answer, as he himself thought it was a very good idea to do so mutually. Kim deftly deflected the question by saying time was precious for the two sides to get on with the negotiations at hand. Earlier, when asked about his country’s denuclearization resolve, Kim answered in no uncertain terms that he would not have showed up at the summit if there was no such will. All these augured well for positive, fruitful outcomes from the summit. Then the closed-door negotiations ran overtime, and when it was finally over past lunch time, members of the international media and indeed the whole world were slightly taken aback when it was announced that there would be no resulting agreements to be announced. Trump and Mike Pompeo, his secretary of state (somewhat equivalent to a secretary of foreign affairs) came out to host a press conference. Trump said he decided to “walk away” from an almost finalized agreement as he “didn’t think it was the right thing to do.” Pompeo filled in the details as to why

Trump decided to “walk” after all. A picture gradually emerged that perhaps both sides were somehow “unprepared” to meet the overly comprehensive demands by the other side. Apparently, the Americans would like the North Koreans to completely dismantle all nuclear facilities (and not just the most prominent one) and cease all nuclear-related activities in the final agreement, something which the North Koreans were not prepared to do. Conversely, the North Koreans would like the Americans to lift all sanctions (likely at once), and Trump was also not prepared to do so in one fell swoop. So, at the end of the day, both sides decided, after prolonged negotiations, to “walk away” from an immediate deal, although perhaps not so much “walking out” from each other. Trump, again in his usually bombastic rhetoric, still called Kim “a great guy,” although no future summit is planned as yet. It is perhaps strangely at least a tribute to Trump’s famously businesslike attitude that although there was no agreement reached after the summit, the whole atmosphere in Hanoi and indeed around the world was not necessarily a pessimistic one. Kim has at least promised to cease nuclear and missile tests for the moment. Many are just waiting for the American and North Korean officials to continue to work out the details. And Vietnam, the host country, has also proven itself capable of running a smooth show on the world stage. This summit, despite its final inconclusiveness, is nevertheless a coming-out show for Vietnam as a mature and responsible international player for peace.

Mike Pompeo’s war warning to China PENNSYLVANIA: As President Trump flew home from his Hanoi summit with Kim Jong Un, Mike Pompeo peeled off and flew to Manila. And there the Secretary of State made a startling declaration. Any armed attack by China on a Philippine ship or plane in the South China Sea, he told the Philippine government, will be treated as an attack on an American ship or plane, bringing a US military response. “China’s island building and military activities in the South China Sea threaten your sovereignty, security and, therefore, economic livelihood, as well as that of the United States,” said Pompeo. “As the South China Sea is part of the Pacific, any armed attack on Philippine forces, aircraft or public vessels in the South China Sea will trigger mutual defense obligations under article 4 of our mutual defense treaty.” Article 4 requires the US and the Philippines to come to the defense of the other if one is attacked. The treaty dates back to August 1951. There are Americans on Social Security who were not born when this Cold War treaty was signed. Pompeo’s declaration amounts to a US war guarantee. Why would we make such a commitment? Why take such a risk? Is Trump aware of what Pompeo’s promise could entail? For years, Beijing has claimed

CREATORS SYNDICATE

patrick j. buchanan

as national territory virtually the entire South China Sea. Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan and the Philippines all reject China’s claims to the Paracel and Spratly Islands within that sea. But Beijing has occupied and expanded half a dozen islets; landed planes and troops; and fortified them as military and naval bases. Beijing is not going to give them up, and Manila is too weak to take them back. A report from the Center for Strategic and International Studies says a Philippine attempt to build on a disputed islet in the Spratly chain brought a flotilla of nearly 100 Chinese ships to halt Philippine construction. Why did Pompeo issue this war guarantee? Because Duterte and members of his Cabinet are unsure the US would come to the defense of the Philippines in such a clash, and they believe their best course may be to appease Beijing, the rising power in Asia and the western Pacific. Since the end of the Cold War, when Manila ordered us to vacate the Subic Bay Naval Base — only to invite us back when Manila grew nervous about her neighbors — and we were forced to abandon the Clark Air Base, the US has not faced the fundamen-

tal question here. Do we have a vital interest, justifying a war with China, in defending Manila’s claim to the Spratly Islands that China also claims, holds and defends as sovereign territory? If so, how do we plan to get the Chinese off these islands, short of a naval and air war that could escalate? Is the Philippines capable of holding these islands if we help to retake them? Or would Manila rely on US naval and air power in perpetuity to keep them? Could America sustain such a commitment? More important, why should we? Has the White House thought through the implications of what the Pompeo threat may bring? If the Chinese politely inform President Duterte that any attempt to take a Chinese-claimed island by force will be met by superior force, what do we do? Tell Duterte it is still his call, even if it means our war? Is it wise for a great power to cede to a weak ally the ability to drag it into a great war? Ask the late Kaiser Wilhelm 2nd. When a Chinese fighter crashed into a US reconnaissance plane over the South China Sea in 2001, then-President George W. Bush and Secretary of State Colin Powell apologized for the death of the Chinese pilot — to retrieve the crew China had interned on Hainan Island. We were unprepared to con-

front China over an act of aggression over international waters. Yet we are now prepared to fight China over who owns and occupies Mischief Reef or Scarborough Shoal? In Monday’s Wall Street Journal article “The US Is Ceding the Pacific to China,” writer Mark Helprin says America must “alter the correlation of military forces in the Western Pacific ... so that it no longer moves rapidly and inevitably in China’s favor.” He urges a massive buildup of US ships, planes, missiles, troops and Marines all across the AsiaPacific theater. And if we do not? “Frankly, if we do not, the Pacific Coast of the United States will eventually look out upon a Chinese lake,” says Helprin. Today, the US, $22 trillion in debt, has treaty commitments dating to the early Cold War to defend Japan, South Korea, the Philippines and Australia, all thousands of miles of ocean away from the USA. If Trump cannot cut back these war guarantees, who will? CREATORS.COM

Patrick J. Buchanan is the author of “Nixon’s White House Wars: The Battles That Made and Broke a President and Divided America Forever.” To find out more about Patrick Buchanan and read features by other Creators writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators website at www.creators.com.

A N A LY S I S

India, Pakistan de-escalate but triggers remain ISLAMABAD: Nuclear-armed neighbors India and Pakistan have pulled back from the brink of an all-out military confrontation over the contested Kashmir region. But Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Pakistani counterpart Imran Khan failed to address the underlying threats to stability, raising the likelihood of renewed escalation. Modi, who seeks reelection this spring, played to his Hindu nationalist base with India’s tough response to a suicide attack in the Indian-controlled part of Kashmir that killed dozens of Indian troops. India bombed inside Pakistan, saying it targeted training camps of Jaish-e-Mohammed, a militant group that claimed responsibility for the attack. The strikes drove up Modi’s popularity, reinforcing the message that an uncompromising stance toward Muslim-majority Pakistan pays off politically. Khan sought to de-escalate, promising talks and an investigation. The premier has made peace talks with India a recurring theme, as he focuses on his country’s struggling economy. Yet Pakistan’s deadly militant groups — many spawned by the Pakistani military as proxies against India — are becoming increasingly difficult to control. Their continued presence is bound to trigger renewed tensions, said Moeed Yusuf of the Washington-based United States Institute of Peace. “The bottom line is that Pakistan’s international image and standing cannot be fixed [as long as] these groups remain alive on Pakistani soil,” he said.

the only Muslim majority state in mostly Hindu India. International human rights groups have accused Indian security forces of widespread abuses, arrests and torture. The 30-year insurgency against New Delhi’s rule has left more than 70,000 people dead. Insurgents demand either outright independence for a united Kashmir or union with Muslim Pakistan. Crackdowns by Indian security forces have spawned a new generation of homegrown militants. The bomber in the February 14 attack was a local man, illustrating the depth of anger inside India’s portion of the territory.

The latest crisis

Pakistan has a history of cultivating anti-Indian militant groups as a proxy forces to press for sovereignty over a united Kashmir. Over the years, the military and intelligence agencies lost control over some of the groups or saw their influence over them waning, said Zahid Hussain, an author on two books about militancy in the region. Jaish-e-Mohammed twice tried to assassinate former Pakistani President and military dictator Gen. Pervez Musharraf after he sought to distance his security forces from the group — even if such distance was only meant for optics. Outright support of such militant groups is no longer policy, but their continued presence perpetuates instability, said Hussain. Defense analyst Talat Masood, a retired Pakistani general, said Pakistan “cannot have a dual policy where you claim to the world there are no militant groups of this nature and at the same time have these groups so visible to the outside world.” Pakistan must take action as part of its national security interest, he said. “Pakistan needs to be more vigorous in ensuring these groups do not bring a bad name to Pakistan and give an opportunity to India to keep on blaming Pakistan,” he said. AP

Already Pakistan and India have fought two wars over Kashmir, a former princely state tucked away in the Himalayan region that is divided between the two rivals but claimed in its entirety by both. A February 14 suicide attack killed more than 40 Indian soldiers in Indian-controlled Kashmir. Jaish-e-Mohammed claimed responsibility. Last Tuesday, Indian aircraft bombed in Pakistan saying they targeted the group’s training camps and claimed the strikes killed many militants. Pakistan and journalists at the site said the bombs hit empty fields. Pakistan retaliated the next day, downing two Indian aircraft and capturing an Indian pilot. Khan went on national TV, offering Modi peace talks and promising an investigation of the suicide attack. Later that day, India handed over a dossier it said laid out evidence of Jaish-e-Mohammed’s involvement in the bombing. On Friday, Pakistan handed the captured pilot to India, signaling de-escalation and raising hopes that war had been averted.

India’s kashmir insurgency India has violently suppressed widespread dissent inside its portion of Kashmir, which is

Modi vs. Khan Modi has fired up Hindu nationalism as part of his election campaign, in part by using antiPakistan rhetoric. In this heated climate, there have been reports of growing threats toward minority Muslims. Kashmiri Indians elsewhere in the country became targets of angry mobs after the suicide attack. Khan, who has the backing of Pakistan’s powerful military, tried to play peacemaker. He said he tried to call Modi three times since Wednesday, but that the Indian leader was not picking up. Since his election last year, Khan has focused on improving Pakistan’s sluggish economy and mending relations with India. The ex-cricketer even invited Indian cricketer Navjot Singh Sidhu to his inauguration.

Pakistan’s militant groups

n IPS From A5

Criminality, school dropout and gender equality where some earlier barriers to girls schooling have been removed, they now outperform boys at all levels and across all subjects, while in higher education, women make up 71 percent of graduates. Across the Emirates, boys are dropping out of secondary school at rates of up to 20 percent in a single year. This trend has been explained by the fact that boys view connections in pursuit of employment opportunities as more potent in achieving social and economic success, while women consider education as a means to gain social freedom and influence. However, there are indi-

cations that boys school dropout is becoming a globalized trend. In the Caribbean region, boys´ dropout rate is generally 20 percent higher than the one for girls and similar trends are apparent in the entire LAC region. In countries like India, Senegal, the Gambia, Bangladesh, Mongolia and Nepal, where there were far fewer girls than boys enrolled in secondary school in 2000, the situation had by 2016 been reversed, leaving boys further behind than girls. Does it matter if more boys than girls drop out of school, and/or to a lesser degree attend

higher education? I asked the retired police officer if he thought boys were more inclined to commit crimes than girls: — Without doubt, he answered. If a girl ends up in crime it´s due to her background, her earlier experiences and not so much because she had left school too early. With boys it´s different. The fact that they are out of school too early makes them inclined to commit crime. I think that for some of them it´s a status thing, if they fail with everything else they can at least succeed in crime. The modern world increasingly requires specific knowledge and

skills, making people with limited schooling ever more marginalized. The risk of becoming poor, socially excluded and having poor health, as well as being trapped in delinquency is dramatically higher among youth who exit education before having reached an upper secondary/high school diploma. The old police also appeared to be correct about girls and crime — research indicates that much fewer girls than boys are trapped in crime due to school dropout. For example, in Sweden high school dropouts are much less likely to be able to support them-

selves from a regular income. They have a mortality risk three times that of graduates, and are five times as likely to have been sentenced to prison by the age of 30. Furthermore, dropouts tend to be inhibited by the social bonds the school and/or a steady job may provide and instead find security in criminal bonding. They become frustrated when aspirations cannot be fulfilled due to their miserable socioeconomic status. A recent Swedish Government report pointed out school failure as the single most important predictor for becoming a member of the NEET

group, i.e persons “Not in Education, Employment or Training.” In EU countries the numbers of NEETs are estimated at 15 percent of people between 15 and 29 years of age. According to the police officer I met, it is among this group of people criminals are recruited. While I after my meeting with the retired police officer was driving home through the dark Swedish forest I imagined that if nothing was done to address men´s feelings of powerlessness, Nordic Noir could soon shift from being magic realism to becoming a description of an actual, global reality.

News

WEDNESDAY March 6, 2019

Japan needs Pinoy health workers J BY WILLIAM B. DEPASUPIL

APAN has opened its doors to Filipino nurses and caregivers under a government-to-government arrangement with the Philippines, according to the Department of Labor and Employment (DoLE). Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello 3rd said on Tuesday that the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) is now accepting qualified applicants. The labor arrangement would

be implemented under the Framework for the Movement of Natural Persons of the Philippines-Japan Economic Partnership Agreemen. POEA Administrator Bernard

Olalia said the Japan International Corporation of Welfare Services needs qualified applicants to fill up another batch of vacancies for 50 nurses and 300 careworkers. Nursing applicants should have at least three years hospital experience and must be motivated and committed to work and study in Japan. Olalia said those who wish to apply as caregivers should have finished any four-year course, or have a certified National Certificate-2 caregiver certification by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, or

a nursing graduate. Those who will be hired shall first complete a six-month onsite Japanese language training. They should be able to pass the licensure examination in Japan before they can work as registered nurses. Candidate-caregivers, on the other hand, shall have to finish a six-month language training and work for at least three years before they can take the nation al examination for caregivers to be able to work in Japan indefinitely. The deadline for submission of application is on April 30, 2019.

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Momo Challenge effigy burned in Butuan City BUTUAN CITY: More than a thousand students in one of the schools here took part in burning a creepy “Momo Challenge” effigy on Monday. Teachers, parents, the police and other concerned groups witnessed the burning at the Libertad Elementary and High School in Butuan City. This was part of the massive information drive launched by the Philippine National Police in Caraga Region (PNP-Caraga) in coordination with the Department of Education and school officials. PNP-Caraga Regional Director Chief Supt. Gilberto Cruz, in a statement said the information drive aims to save the youth from the harmful effects of the Momo Challenge, which had gone viral and raised concern among parents

and teachers in the country. A recent report disclosed the suicide of an 11-year old student in Quezon City allegedly hooked on the Momo Challenge, which goads children to alienate themselves from family and friends and to do violence on themselves and others. During the effigy burning, Cruz gave students and teachers a briefing on how the Momo Challenge affects those who play it and showed a video on how to help children avoid all online games that provoke violent behavior. Cruz also expressed hope that with the information campaign activity, no child in the region would become a victim of the Momo Challenge. ALEXANDER D. LOPEZ

Suspects in Cebu illegal drugs trade exposed Part 3

THE Manila Times interviewed drug suspect Allan Lopez, 53, inside the Cebu City Police Office (CPPO) detention cell on January 28. Police arrested Lopez, who yielded P1.7 million worth of shabu, in Barangay Baliwagan, Balamban town, Cebu on January 22. Lopez, a former Sangguniang Barangay member of Baliwagan, denied he was in possession of the shabu. “Only God knows. I am clean. It is not true (that the illegal drugs were mine,” Lopez said when asked about the source of the shabu. Lopez said his family was shocked to know that he was arrested and he strongly denied that he was involved in the illegal drugs trade. “The shabu was not mine. Only the police know (where they got it),” he added. However, he admitted that he owns an improvised shotgun, saying that the unlicensed shotgun served as protection in case their water connection will be cut off due to non-payment. Lopez said that he did not boast that he owns a shotgun, and he said that it was for his protection but he has not experienced firing it yet. He said that it was his first time to be arrested, and he feared for his life. He said that his high blood pressure had gone up while inside the jail. The Drug Enforcement Unit (DEU) and Provincial Intelligence Branch (PIB) of the CCPO conducted on January 22 a joint operation to serve search warrants . Police confiscated 10 medium packs of shabu and an improvised shotgun with three live bullets from Lopez. Alfonso Buot, 53, was also arrested, and seized from him were a .45 caliber with magazine and three live bullets. Buot, who was with Lopez inside the detention cell, declined to give a comment.

The governor is hoping that lawmen are consistent in apprehending drug pushers and ordinary drug users but also the big-time drug lords. “I know there are big-time drug lords here in Cebu. I think it is public knowledge because most of the drugs here are distributed in other places. Maybe the supply of drugs has reduced. But still, I cannot expect that the drug problem in Cebu can be eradicated, but it can be minimized and I see the efforts of the police in relentlessly chasing persons of interests and high value targets,” Davide added. “We support the President’swar against drugs. Even before he became President, Duterte had already been actively involved in the campaign against drugs through the creation of our CPADAO we have been closely coordinating with the LGUs (Local Government Units), even the barangay have rewards and incentives are also given to PNP personnel,” Davide said. He said the Cebu provincial government partnered with a telecommunications company, which is donating a rehabilitation center with a 105-bed capacity in Pinamungajan town, south Cebu. This is expected to open in the second quarter. “Still, this is not enough because there are many drug surrenderers since 2016,” Davide added. At present, Cebu Province only has one rehabilitation center which is ran by the Department of Health in Central Visayas (DoH-7). “There are rehab centers [in Cebu] but these are expensive,” said Davide. The Cebu provincial government also has a barangay-based rehabilitation program but they do not have the facility to operate at optimum level. “These are for first-time drug users. It is a community-based program of the CPADAO,” Davide added. Davide is calling out illegal drug users to stop their “habit”. “For those narco-politicians who are allegedly involved in protecting [drug lords], there is no direct proof. It’s just a list and I am very wary about that. Anybody can just say that he is a protector. If there are really public officials involved in drugs, better stop it now,” Davide said. Meanwhile, Dr. Jaime Bernadas, DoH7regional director, said that their department has an existing drug rehabilitation program for drug dependents under a court order for rehabilitation. “We are supporting local governments in crafting community-based rehabilitation programs and out-patient treatment. We are also coordinating with the Department of Social Welfare and Development which is in charge of follow up after treatment and rehabilitation, and when they are discharged. ” Bernadas added. He said that because of the Oplan Tokhang, there was an upsurge in-patients in residential treatment centers due to the volunteers who submitted for treatment and rehabilitation. Bernadas said that Oplan Tokhang was effective in a way because drug users come to a point where they give themselves up in orger to get treatment. The regional health chief said that to address the illegal drugs problem in Cebu, DoH is informing and educating the community about the ill-effects on the body and mind.

SPECIALREPORT

A MAN FOR THE MASSES

Christopher Lawrence ‘Bong’ Go hobnobs with some of his supporters who attended his campaign rally. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Bong Go slams critics for spreading fake news; denies using govt funds SENATE candidate Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go on Tuesday assured the public that he has not used government funds for his campaign, but that many Filipinos believe in him and the Dutete administration and were willing to help him. “Huwag kayong mag-alala hindi ako gumagamit ng government funds. Maraming Pilipino na gustong tumulong dahil naniniwala sila sa amin ng Pangulo (Do not worry; I am not using government funds. Many Filipinos would like to help because they believe in me and in the President),” Go said. The former top aide of President Rodrigo Duterte slammed his critics for “spreading fake news, accusing him of alleged election offenses in their bid to drag him

down.” Earlier, opposition bet Gary Alejano alleged that the Department of of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) authorized barangay (village) officials to spend government funds for campaign materials with Go’s name that were distributed during the Liga ng mga Barangay sa Pilipinas National Assembly in Manila held on February 25 to 27. “ Wala po akong idea [about that], tanungin na lang po nila ang organizers (I have no idea; just ask the organizers). Pakiusap ko po sa lahat na huwag niyo gamitin pangalan ko (Please do not use my name) without my knowledge and consent,” Go said when asked about the allegations. He asked DILG Secretary Edu-

ardo Año to remind the leagues of local government units and elective officials, such as the Liga ng mga Barangay, to stay neutral. Año had denied Alejano’s allegation, saying it was fake news. “That’s a big fake news! Liga ng Barangay is an independent activity initiated by the national league officers. They have their own organizers. I just provided the guidelines so that the activity is in accordance with the law,” Año told reporters The DILG chief also said he knows that Go would not allow or tolerate such illegal activity. Go has earlier urged his supporters to follow the law and not post campaign materials in his behalf. He urged them to donate their money to those in need.

Legal representative of a ‘service user’ Dear PAO, My best friend was recently diagnosed with bipolar disorder. During her last therapy, her physician gave her the option to appoint a legal representative. After giving it some thought, she asked me if she can appoint me as her legal representative. I would like to know the responsibilities of a legal representative. I also want to know if I can discontinue being her legal representative after she appoints me as such, and who will act as her legal representative after I discontinue my representation? Berna Dear Berna, To answer your first question, Section 10 (a) of the Republic Act 11361 or the “Mental Health Act” enumerates the following functions of a legal representative: “(1) Provide the service user with support and help; represent his or her interests; and receive medical information about the

w w w.manilatimes.net

BY RHEA RUTH ROSELL

PACC taps other govt agencies in campaign serve as the PACC’s internal anticorruption aides. The departments would enjoy the powers of the PACC, such as enforcing disciplinary measures and suspending or terminating corrupt civil servants. Jimenez said they have yet to finalize guidelines on the deputation. However, these partner agencies can evaluate graft complaints,verify documents, examine the facts, adjudicate and make a formal recommendation. Once these agencies determine that there was sufficient evidence, they can proceed with the investigation, Jimenez said. Jimenez said deputizing other agencies would reduce the work load of the anti-graft and corruption commission. Among the agencies that would be issued the Order of Deputation are the Department of the Interior and Local Government, Department of Labor and Employment, Department of Health, Department of Agriculture, Department of Justice, Department of Public Works and Highways, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Philippine National Police, Land Transportation Office, Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Finance, Commission on Audit, Civil Service Commission and Land Transportation Office. Representatives of these agencies will take their oath on Wednesday, March 6, the first anniversary celebration of the PACC. CATHERINE A. MODESTO

˜ The Manila Times

DEAR PAO

PERSIDA ACOSTA service user in accordance with [the Mental Health] Act; “(2) Act as substitute decision maker when the service user has been assessed by a mental health professional to have temporary impairment of decision-making capacity; “Assist the service user vis-à-vis the exercise of any right provided under this Act; and “Be consulted with respect to any treatment or therapy received by the service user.” Please note that in the enumeration above, the term “service user” refers to “a person with lived experience of any mental health condition, including persons who require, or are undergoing psychi-

atric, neurologic or psychosocial care” (Section 4 (t), Ibid.) From your letter, it appears that your friend’s condition is covered under the aforementioned definition. On your second query, you may discontinue being a representative, provided that you “must take reasonable steps to inform the service user, as well as the service user’s attending mental health professional or worker, of such decision” (Section 10(b), Id.). Your friend may appoint another representative. In the event that your friend does not appoint a representative after you, Section 10 (c) of the Mental Health Act enumerates the individuals who may act as such. It provides: “Section 10. Legal Representative — xxx “c) Failure to Appoint. If the service user fails to appoint a legal representative, the following persons shall act as the service user’s legal representative, in the order provided below:

“The spouse, if any, unless permanently separated from the service user by a decree issued by a court of competent jurisdiction, or unless such spouse has abandoned or been abandoned by the service user for any period which has not yet come to an end: “Non-minor children; “Either parent by mutual consent, if the service user is a minor; “Chief, administrator, or medical director of a mental health care facility; or “A person appointed by the court.” We hope that we were able to answer your queries. This advice is based solely on the facts you have narrated and our appreciation of the same. Our opinion may vary when other facts are changed or elaborated. Editor’s note: Dear PAO is a daily column of the Public Attorney’s Office. Questions for Chief Acosta may be sent to dearpao@manilatimes.net

War on drugs ‘picking up’

Davide said that the war on drugs is picking up. “If you base it on what has happened since the war on drugs began in 2016, when the President assumed office, up to now, in Cebu alone there were many apprehended, in fact, the volume of illegal drugs was huge, so I can say that the war against drugs is picking up and “we can see that the police are in control.” Davide, who is also vice chairman of the National Tokhang Advocacy Coalition (NTAC), said that the Cebu provincial government was closely coordinating with the CPPO and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA). “Although there are new players and new names, police killed in action during buy-busts, we can se the police are really aggressive in waging the war on drugs. The provincial government, on the other hand, supports this program through our Cebu Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Office (CPADAO) where we give incentives and awards to Philippine National Police (PNP) personnel and even PDEA agents that are involved in these operations resulting in the arrest of drug suspects,” said Davide.

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Inflation back on target, slows to 3.8% BY ANNA LEAH E. GONZALES, MAYVELIN U. CARABALLO AND RALPH EDWIN U. VILLANUEVA

EADLINE inflation finally returned to target in February, the government reported on Tuesday, slowing to 3.8 percent from 4.4 percent a month earlier.

The result, which fell within the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP)

3.7-4.5 percent projection and the 3.8-4.3 percent in a Manila Times

Stock market, peso fall; Diokno transfer cited THE peso returned to the P52:$1 level while the stock market dipped on Tuesday, with the surprise appointment of Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno as the new Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas governor said to be a factor. The currency, which opened at P51.80 against the greenback and dropped to as low as P52.26 during the day, closed down 52 centavos at P52.24:$1, its lowest since a P52.33:$1 finish on February 18. The local unit erased all the gains it accumulated since its returned to the P51:$1 level on Wednesday last week. The bellwether Philippine Stock Exchange

äFall B2

Factory output down anew in January – PSA FACTORY output continued to fall in January but the contraction was narrower compared to a month earlier, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported on Tuesday. The value and volume of production indices (VapI and VoPI) declined by -0.7 percent and -4.1 percent respectively compared to growth of 10.9 percent and 10.8 percent a year earlier, but improved from the -11.7 percent and -11.9 percent recorded in December 2018. The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), in a statement, said declines in food, basic metals, non-metallic mineral products, chemical products, tobacco, fabricated metals, and machinery (except electrical) contributed to contraction. But an easing of inflationary pressures, especially on food following the signing of the rice tariffication law, bodes well for a recovery moving forward, it added. “Manufacturing growth outturn in January

äPSA B2

PSBank’s highest paid executives A

S president of Philippine Savings Bank (PSB), Vicente R. Cuna Jr. led four other bank officials namely Jose Vicente L. Alde, Noli S. Gomez, Perfecto Ramon Z. Dimayuga Jr. and Jose Jesus B. Custodio as PSB’s five highest paid executives. As a group, they were paid salary of P57.95 million and bonus of P30.35 million in 2018. In a footnote, PSB said Cuna was president from January 2018 to April 2018; Alde, then executive vice president, was president from April 2018 to present; Gomez, then senior vice president, was promoted to executive vice president from April 2018 to present. As PSB’s highest paid executives in 2017, Cuna, Alde, Gomez, Dimayuga, and Custodio, received salary of P53.09 million and bonus of P31.38 million. In 2019, PSB added Emmanuel A. Tuazon, senior vice president, to the list of five highest paid executives. Since the year is only on its

äPerez B2

poll of economists, ended an 11-month run of above-target outturns beginning March last year, when consumer price growth first breached the 2.0-4.0 percent goal and then steadily moved upwards, hitting a nine-year high of 6.7 percent in September and October. Inflation has now eased for four straight months, raising the prospect of monetary policy

adjustments. But with the year-todate average still over target at 4.1 percent, a senior BSP official said it could be “premature” to reconsider the policy stance. Last year’s surge had prompted monetary authorities to raise key interest five consecutive times — for a total of 175 basis points — before pausing in December and February. The BSP’s policymaking

Monetary Board will next meet on March 21. Month on month and seasonally adjusted, inflation was unchanged at 0.1 percent in February compared to the previous month. Core inflation, which strips out volatile food and energy items, was at 3.9 percent in February and 4.2 percent year to date. “The main drivers in the down-

trend of inflation in February 2019 were food and non-alcoholic beverages, alcoholic beverages and tobacco, and transport,” Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Deputy National Statistician Josie B. Perez said in a briefing. A second round of fuel excise tax hikes had little effect on inflation, she added.

äTarget B3

Business Times

˜ The Manila Times

w w w.manilatimes.net

WEDNESDAY March 6, 2019

Duterte wants higher budget for DA – Piñol P BY EIREENE JAIREE GOMEZ

RESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte wants the budget for the Philippine agriculture sector raised to boost food production amid the rapidly growing population in the country, Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel Piñol said on Tuesday.

In a statement, Piñol said the President directed him during a Cabinet meeting on Monday to submit a budget proposal “10 times bigger” than the agriculture department’s current allocation. “Tell me how much you need and I will ask [Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez] to give you the money,” Piñol quoted Duterte as saying. “Make use of every avail-

able area to grow food. You know how to do that,” he added. Duterte emphasized the need for bigger support to the country’s farm sector, noting that the population was increasing by about 2 million yearly. He also asked the DA to focus on the farm-to-market food chain “to ensure that farmers and fishermen are able to sell their produce at a fair price.

n PEREZ FROM B1

board’s fees at P19.307 million, which would have entitled each to P2,145,222.

PSBank’s third month, the bank estimated the group’s salary at P62.01 million and their bonus at P32.47 million. According to PSB’s filling, “all other officers (from assistant vice president up) and directors will be paid salary of P160.99 million and bonus of P74.64 million in 2019. The were paid salary of P150.46 million in 2018; and salary of P191.72 million and bonus of P94.13 million in 2017. In an explanatory note, PSB said “the directors received fees, bonuses and allowances that are already included in the amounts stated above. Aside from said amounts, they have no other compensation plan or arrangement with the bank.” The bank also said “the executive officers receive salaries, bonuses and other usual bank benefits that are also included in the amounts stated above.” In a general information sheet (GIS), PSB placed the nine-person

n PSA FROM B1

Factory 2019 showed a moderate improvement coming from December 2018. Nevertheless, with our recent progress in agricultural policy, we can expect manufacturing to recover further.” Socioeconomic Planning Secretary

A Metrobank unit As PSB’s mother company, Metropolitan Bank and Trust Co. owns 198.629 million PSB common shares, or 82.675 percent of 240.252 million outstanding PSB common shares, according to the same GIS posted on May 24, 2018 on the website of the Philippine Stock Exchange. However, a public ownership report (POR) showed PSB having issued 383,109,416 common shares, which were outstanding as of today. The same number of issued and outstanding common shares remains posted on PSE website. The POR listed nine directors as direct holders of 4,002,569 PSB common shares, or 1.04 percent and Metrobank as principal stockholder owning 338.61 million PSB common shares, or 83.38 percent. The bank’s public stockholders, according to the same POR, own 40.497 Ernesto M. Pernia said in a statement. “The decline in prices of rice and agricultural commodities brought about by the appreciation of peso and the increase in supply of rice imports will improve consumer outlook and propup domestic demand,” he added. Pernia said the passage of the Rice Industry Modernization Law would stabilize inflation and could result in lower cost of inputs for the

The DA was also tasked to focus on small water irrigation systems, post-harvest facilities, logistics and transport facilities, and easy access credit to improve food production and reduce poverty in the country. Over the last two years, the country’s agriculture sector was given a measly 2 percent share of the national budget. In 2017, the National Food and Agriculture Council (NFAC) endorsed a budget proposal of over P200 billion for 2018, but the DA got only P56 billion by the national government. For this year, the DA has a total budget of P86 billion which includes the budget of newly transferred agencies like the National Food Authority (NFA), Philippine

Coconut Authority (PCA) and the Fertilizer and Pesticides Authority (FPA). The DA budget also comprises of the unprogrammed funds of P10 billion for the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) and the P10 billion from the Coco Levy Fund. The DA has just started its threeday internal budget hearing on Tuesday. All regional offices, bureaus and attached agencies will be asked to submit their budget proposals for the year 2020. “With the President’s major policy pronouncement last night, the DA will adjust its budgetary proposals with corresponding targets to be achieved,” Piñol said.

million PSB common shares, or 10.57 percent, an ownership which is slightly above the required 10-percent minimum public ownership. In summary, PSB added non-public shares totaling 342,612,740 common shares and 40,496,676 common shares and arrived at 383,109,416 outstanding common shares. As of date of filing, foreigners owned 2,592,523 PSB common shares, or 0.677 percent of outstanding Foreigners are allowed to own up to a maximum of 40 percent of outstanding.

with PCD Nominee Corp. Aside from Metrobank, PSB also listed Danilo L. Dolor and Erlinda L. Dolor as holders of 12,610,891 PSB common shares, or 5.249 percent, and 7,605,832 PSB common shares, or 3.166 percent, respectively. In a preliminary information statement, Arthur V. Ty, who, as Metrobank chairman, will vote the parent bank’s 338.61 million PSB common shares, or 88.38 percent. Of the nine members of the board, three were and still are independent directors, namely Jose T. Pardo, PSB chairman, Samson C. Lim and Eduardo A. Sahagun. PSB’s regular directors are Arthur V. Ty, Vicente R. Cuna Jr., Rosanna F. De Vera, Maria Soledad D.S. De Leon, Jose L. Alde, and Samson C. Lim. By the way, PSB will hold its annual stockholders’ meeting at 3 p.m. on April 15, 2019. Are public investors, particularly those who are direct holders of PSB common shares, invited to attend?

Ownership profile As of May 23, 2018, PSB had 425 million authorized capital stock (ACS) with par value of P10 per share. Of the ACS, 1,459 Filipinos and 17 foreigners subscribed and paid for 240,252,491 PSB common shares. On the other hand, the foreigners, who owned PSB common shares, included four Americans, seven Chinese, two Dutch, and three Singaporeans. Only one was identified as “foreign” with one PSB common share lodged manufacturing sector. He added, however, that other measures should also be put in place to attract new investments and reduce the cost of expanding production capacity. These include full implementation of the Ease of Doing Business-Efficient Government Service Delivery Act of 2018 and the passage of amendments to the Public Service Act, Foreign

Email: esdperez@gmail.com Investments Act and the Retail Trade Liberalization law. “These measures are vital considering that manufacturing is expected to be dampened by less optimistic business and consumer outlook in the first quarter of the year. Higher domestic oil prices, rising adjustment in electricity rates, and weather disturbances are expected to exert upward price pressures on the cost of inputs,” Pernia said.

How can finance seize digital opportunities? W FROM WHERE

HETHER it is artificial intelligence, big data, analytics, or cloud technology, technological advances present an opportunity for finance or accounting teams. However, what is the best way to make the most of potential gains: an enterprise-wide solution or a more targeted approach? Many will attest that investing in technology can bring a competitive advantage, as well as connectivity. However, many companies are hesitant about digital transformation due to lack of knowledge and willingness to invest. This despite the fact that we live in a world shaped by cloud and wireless technologies. We are on the cusp of a new wave of technology that affects not only customers, but the back office as well. Robotic process automation and machine learning are enabling automation and opportunities to scale up, which were not there before. Furthermore, analytics and artificial intelligence are creating situations wherein the finance platform can be built on top of the company’s core systems, without having to change or update them. This gives finance and accounting teams the freedom to improve without moving or modifying essential systems usually very expensive to change.

Is the Finance department lagging behind? Finance and accounting teams especially face two main challenges. First, they are often not as aggressive as other functions in seeking investment in the latest systems and technologies. Unfortunately, companies tend to focus on operational and customer-facing technology. The return on investment in finance systems can be extremely quick, but it is rarely articulated. Second, finance teams lack the capacity to step up and adapt. Such departments often lack the time to focus on special projects, like digital transformation, when ‘business as usual’ comes first. Finance may not have the time for major transformations, but teaching continuous improvement across the organization can make a huge impact.

Don’t be tech-savvy for the sake of it For mid-sized businesses considering spending on technology, check first if you can maximize current systems. Adding technology is not a magic bullet. Companies can implement new solutions, but if the adoption is poor, because users neither are engaged nor aware of the system’s benefits, they just die out. This leads to resistance to embracing similar projects in the future.

n FALL FROM B1

Diokno index (PSEi), meanwhile, dipped by 0.06 percent or 4.85 points to close at 7,670.62. The wider All Shares declined by 0.17 percent or 8. 07 points to finish at 4,740.90. “Markets may have viewed the appointment of Diokno as a surprise. A lot were expecting an insider to be chosen,” Union Bank of the Philippines chief economist Ruben Carlo Asuncion said. He added that the choice of Diokno to replace Nestor Espenilla, who died last month from cancer, “may have the market thinking of government influencing monetary policy more than usual.” “However, this may also be just a knee-jerk reaction as we will know how the new governor plans to move forward as he starts his term,” Asuncion added. Eagle Equities Inc. research head Christopher Mangun, meanwhile, blamed the PSEI’s dip on foreign fund outflows and said investors also ignored news that inflation had finally returned to target in February. Net foreign selling stood at P1.27 billion as foreign funds loaded P3.2 billion worth of issues and disposed of P4.5 billion.

WE SIT

ANTON NG One approach does not fit all The approach that companies should take depends on the type of organization and its needs. For an enterprise-wide solution, the challenge is the lack of a clear business case for the change. Management has difficulties with providing robust analysis of business benefits and return on investment. In some cases, however, an enterprise-wide digital transformation is exactly what the organization needs. A mid-sized business where connectivity between warehouse management, e-commerce, and finance needs an overhaul because investing in technology will enable a company-wide transformation. Alternatively, a specific business case that delivers clear return on investment is sometimes a better and more affordable option.

Plan, plan, plan Digital transformation can go wrong when there is no proper business case, which explains in detail the financial benefits, work improvements, and project delivery structure. Sadly, most finance functions sit on massive amounts of interesting data, but they have no time to analyze them, because they are manually downloading data out of the finance system, manipulating them in Excel, reviewing printouts, and then reloading all the information into the finance system through accounting journals. The significant costs that come with digital opportunities should also not be a roadblock. Instead of looking only at the cost aspect, factor in the return on investment and what can really be achieved.

Keep calm, carry on There is no harm in embracing technological advances. When considering any kind of digital project, ignore the scars of the past and understand that the rules have changed: technology is very much different these days and it can be done much more quickly and affordably. CEOs today prioritize innovation, proactive performance management, and governmentcompliant digital processes. The biggest challenge for the latter is finding sustainable solutions fit for your organization by adding value at the right cost. “Despite the good news, investors continue to be scarce and on the sidelines,” Mangun said. In a separate comment, AAA Southeast Equities Inc. President Matthew Cabangon said investors also stayed on the sidelines following Diokno’s appointment. “Markets have been asking for a rate cut by the BSP and believe that Diokno’s appointment makes this scenario more likely. We are on a wait and see mode as more clarity surfaces on where the new BSP chief’s stance is,” he said. The market’s decline was in line most others in Asia. Tokyo ended 0.4 percent lower, Sydney eased 0.3 percent, Singapore and Seoul were each 0.5 percent off and Taipei dropped 0.4 percent. Bangkok was also down. But Shanghai jumped 0.9 percent while Hong Kong inched up after China announced hundreds of billions of dollars worth of tax cuts for firms to stimulate the economy. In Manila, sectoral results were mixed with financials, holding firms, and services the only gainers. More than 3.5 billion shares valued at P6.6 billion were traded. Losers led winners, 115 to 89, while 46 issues were unchanged. MAYVELIN U. CARABALLO AND ANGELICA BALLESTEROS WITH A REPORT FROM AFP

˜ The Manila Times

w w w.manilatimes.net

WEDNESDAY March 6, 2019

Megaworld leads in office development last year MEGAWORLD Corp. led other property developers last year in developing offices in the National Captial Region and beyond, according to a realestate services company. In an online report, KMC Savills said the Andrew Tanled real-estate firm bolstered its position in office developments, noting it supplied “the majority of [it] in 2018.” “The company strengthened its position as it effectively controlled office space leasing nationwide,” it added. KMC Savills also said Megaworld would expand its portfolio by 1.5 million square meters of gross leasable area by next year. It added that Megaworld and its competitors had spent P273 billion in capital expenditures last year, estimating that “close to a tenth of this amount has been disbursed for office development alone.”

Corporate News Metro Pacific group profit up 7% to P15.1B in 2018

In Metro Manila, nearly 750,000 sq.m. of grade-A offices were completed last year, according to KMC Savills. It also noted the property’s growing presence in the Visayas, saying the listed property developer had “expanded its portfolio to 322,900 sq.m. at the end of 2018.” “Through large land acquisitions, it has set up thriving mixed-use townships in Mactan [in Cebu province’s Lapu-Lapu City] and Iloilo [province]. Iloilo Business Park has been a key success, with already [about] 42,000 sq.m. of office stock completed and fully occupied,” the report said. “By 2020, Megaworld’s provincial office stock is expected to reach 438,500 sq.m. with 123,500 sq.m. expected to be completed in [the] Iloilo Business Park alone,” it added. ARIC JOHN SY CUA

Businessinbriefs PSBANK NET INCOME FLAT AT P2.7B

A HIGHER interest income failed to support Philippine Savings Bank’s (PSBank) net profit for 2018, which remained flat at P2.7 billion. In a statement on Tuesday, the thrift-banking arm of the Metrobank Group reported a net interest income of P11.3 billion last year, up 2.3 percent year-on-year. The amount translates to a return on equity of 11.4 percent and a return on asset of 1.2 percent. Total assets amounted to P237.7 billion, a 6.5-percent jump from the 2017 figure, while total gross loans grew by 7.1 percent or P10.4 billion to P156.7 billion. PSBank’s total deposits rose by 6.2 percent or P11.8 billion to P200.7 billion in 2018, and its capitalization remained above the regulatory threshold at 13.9 percent for capital adequacy ratio, and 11.3 percent for common equity tier 1 ratio. PSBank’s shares ended flat at P58.30 on Tuesday. MAYVELIN U. CARABALLO

D&L TARGETS DOUBLE-DIGIT GROWTH THIS YEAR

D&L Industries Inc. expects to grow by double digits this year on the back of lower inflation and the upcoming May midterm elections, during which sales usually peak. At a news briefing in Makati City on Tuesday, D&L President Alvin Lao said his company’s optimism was buoyed by its net income, which rose by 10 percent to P3.2 billion last year from P2.9 billion in 2017, 38 percent of which was contributed by the Chemrez Group. Net income in the fourth quarter of 2018 was flat at P785 million, as consumer spending was tempered by the higher inflation and interest rate last year. Revenues dipped by 4 percent from P27.8 billion in 2017 to only P26.5 billion last year, while it dropped by 19 percent to P6.37 billion in October to December from P7.8 billion in the same period in 2017. ANGELICA BALLESTEROS

BY ANGELICA BALLESTEROS

ETRO Pacific Investments Corp. (MPIC) said on Tuesday its consolidated core net income grew by 7 percent to P15.1 billion last year from P14.1 billion in 2017 on the back of the solid growth registered by its subsidiaries. At a news briefing in Makati City, MPIC President and Chief Executive Officer Jose Ma. Lim attributed the increase to the listed holding company’s higher net operating income. To this income, its power units contributed 55 percent or P10.8 billion; its tollway subsidiary, 23 percent or P4.4 billion; its water arm, 19 percent or P3.8 billion; and its hospital business, 4 percent or P771 million. Only the company’s rail and logistics subsidiary incurred a net loss, which amounted to P248 million. Consolidated reported net

Value

Chg

%Chg

PSEi

7,670.62

-4.85

-0.06▼

All Shares

4,740.90

-8.07

-0.17▼

Financials

1,704.65

2.92

0.17▲

Industrial

11,357.13

-7.66

-0.07▼

Holding Firms

7,723.97

6.13

0.08▲

Services

1,536.10

17.41

1.15▲

Mining and Oil

8,088.05

-61.37

-0.75▼

Property

3,907.74

-31.97

-0.81▼

BLOOMBERRY Resorts Corp. recorded an 18.3-percent increase in its net income to P7.17 billion in 2018 from P6.06 billion in 2017. In a disclosure on Tuesday, the listed resort and casino operator said it generated the amount despite unrealized foreign-exchange losses from its operations in South Korea and higher interest expenses incurred from the full drawdown of its P73.5 billion syndicated loan in the first half of 2018.

SERVICES

PSEi

ALL SHARES

MINING AND OIL

FINANCIALS

INDUSTRIAL

PROPERTY

INDEX HISTORY Open 7,632 7,712 7,920 7,962 7,996 7,940 7,947 7,849 7,923 7,925 7,965 7,960 8,040 8,077 8,088 8,092 8,093 8,091 8,132 8,039 7,999 8,039 8,087 8,071 8,076 8,001 7,941 8,024 8,055 7,932

High 7,698 7,754 7,920 7,973 7,996 7,962 7,947 7,945 7,939 7,964 8,000 7,996 8,040 8,084 8,106 8,096 8,127 8,214 8,149 8,166 8,099 8,047 8,087 8,144 8,116 8,068 7,990 8,030 8,067 8,058

Low 7,596 7,588 7,705 7,878 7,945 7,895 7,893 7,848 7,831 7,911 7,909 7,921 7,889 7,984 8,062 8,036 8,088 8,058 8,069 8,039 7,999 7,912 8,015 8,042 8,039 8,001 7,902 7,979 7,964 7,920

Close 7,675 7,642 7,705 7,889 7,988 7,962 7,931 7,939 7,834 7,911 7,909 7,991 7,920 8,010 8,062 8,071 8,100 8,058 8,069 8,144 8,007 7,980 8,051 8,054 8,053 8,065 7,990 8,009 8,007 8,047

Consolidated net revenues stood at P38.36 billion last year, a 21-percent increase from P33.09 billion in 2017, while consolidated net gaming revenues rose by 16.9 percent to P31.6 billion in from P27.04 billion. Consolidated earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization (ebitda) stood at P16.05 billion in 2018, a 7.72-percent jump from P14.9 billion. In the fourth quarter alone, consolidated ebitda stood a P3.4

billion, a 62-percent surge from P2.1 billion. Bloomberry Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Enrique Razon Jr. said he was pleased with his company’s performance. “We look forward to 2019 and to sowing the seeds of our future growth, as we anticipate to break ground on our second integrated resort in Quezon City this year,” he added, referring to a new 1.5-hectare gaming complex that would rise within the Vertis North estate.

Bloomberry units Sureste Properties Inc. and Bloomberry Resorts and Hotels Inc. already raised P40 billion last month from the Philippine National Bank, BDO Unibank Inc., Metropolitan Bank and Trust Co., Union Bank of the Philippines, Bank of Commerce, China Banking Corp., and Robinsons Bank Corp. to finance the project. Bloomberry shares added 26 centavos or 2.33 percent to close at P11.40 each on Tuesday. ANGELICA BALLESTEROS

n TARGET FROM B1

in 2Q (totalling 300bp), cutting it down to 15 percent by the end of 2019,” it said.

expected to bring down rice prices and cut inflation by 0.5 to 0.7 percentage point this year and 0.3 to 0.4 percentage point next year,” the chiefs of the Finance and Budget departments and the National Economic and Development Authority said in a joint statement. They also said that the government would undertake proactive measures to lessen the impact of the El Niño weather phenomenon, which will likely affect 19 provinces in the country until June this year. Authorities will remain watchful given rising oil prices, with the Land Transportation and Franchising Regulatory Board told to “increase its efforts to cover more of the targeted beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pasada Program in order to temper possible demand for transport fare hikes…”. “Nevertheless, the economic team is upbeat that inflation is again starting to become manageable. While we constantly keep a close watch on the general prices of goods, we can now pay greater attention to programs that will further propel economic growth and help us reach our long-term development goals.” Malacañang also welcomed the February result and reiterated the view that inflation would continued to ease. “The Palace welcomes this positive development as proof that the macroeconomic policies of the Duterte administration have been effective in addressing soaring prices,” Palace spokesman Salvador Panelo said. “We expect further improvement and disinflation as we continue to remain vigilant in monitoring the prices of basic goods used by ordinary Filipino consumers,” he added. Initiatives implemented by the government to address above-target inflation included the issuance of Administrative Order 13, which removed non-tariff barriers and streamlined the importation of agricultural products; Memorandum Order 26, which directed the Trade and Agriculture departments to reduce the gap between farmgate and retail prices; Memorandum Order 27, which directed the Agriculture and Local Governments departments, along with the Philippine National Police and the Metro Manila Development Authority, to adopt measures to expedite the delivery of imported farm and fishery products to markets; and Memorandum Order 28 that directed the National Food Authority to immediately release rice stocks in its warehouses.

Inflation “Because of the slower rate of increases [in fuel] prices, there was no effect in February. Even if prices of gasoline increased, the increase last year was still higher,” the PSA official said.

Time for adjustments?

Stock indices as of March 5, 2019

Date Mar 4, 2019 Mar 1, 2019 Feb 28, 2019 Feb 27, 2019 Feb 26, 2019 Feb 22, 2019 Feb 21, 2019 Feb 20, 2019 Feb 19, 2019 Feb 18, 2019 Feb 15, 2019 Feb 14, 2019 Feb 13, 2019 Feb 12, 2019 Feb 11, 2019 Feb 8, 2019 Feb 7, 2019 Feb 6, 2019 Feb 4, 2019 Feb 1, 2019 Jan 31, 2019 Jan 30, 2019 Jan 29, 2019 Jan 28, 2019 Jan 25, 2019 Jan 24, 2019 Jan 23, 2019 Jan 22, 2019 Jan 21, 2019 Jan 18, 2019

Quezon City, adding that it had two water treatment plants in Laguna province. MetroPac Hospital Holdings Inc.’s aggregate revenues posted an 14-percent increase, due to the number of outpatients rising by 8 percent to 3.3 million and inpatients by 11 percent to 193,824. MPIC Chairman Manuel Pangilinan expressed pleasure over the company’s performance last year, adding that “continuing strong demand for the services we provide, against a backdrop of steady economic growth, underpins our optimism for 2019 — albeit it is too early to give earnings guidance for the year.” According to him, MPIC’s would focus on building new infrastructure assets for its road, water, light rail, energy and logistics arms in the medium term. MPIC shares increased by 12 centavos or 2.63 percent to finish at P4.69 apiece on Tuesday.

Bloomberry 2018 profit up 18.3% to P7.17B

HOLDING FIRMS

Index

income attributable to owners of the parent firm, meanwhile, also rose by 7 percent to P14.1 billion. Manila Electric Co.’s core net profit grew by 11 percent to P22.4 billion in 2018, driven by a 5-percent rise in energy sales, slightly lower tariffs and a reversal of provisions after a new accounting standard was adopted. Global Power Corp. saw its net income decline by 15 percent to P2.5 billion on account of the the depreciation and interest costs of Panay Energy Development Corp.’s 150-megawatt

plant, coupled with lower margins from the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market sales due to higher coal and fuel costs. M e t r o P a c i f i c To l l w a y s Corp.’s net profit surged by 13 percent to P4.5 billion from P3.9 billion. Its systemwide vehicle entries averaged 916,886 daily, including road networks in Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam. Maynilad Water Services Inc. reported a 5-percent net income increase to P7.7 billion, buoyed by higher revenues, which rose by 6 percent to P22 billion from P20.8 billion, coupled with lower provisions and interest expense. With El Niño expected this year, Maynilad President and Chief Executive Officer Ramoncito Fernandez said the water concessionaire remained positive that the weather phenomenon would not affect its La Mesa treatment plant in

HIGH

Commenting on the latest data, ING senior economist Nicholas Antonio Mapa said the BSP could consider cutting the reserve requirement ratio (RRR) and lower policy rates. “With inflation back within target, this leaves the door wide open for newly appointed Governor [Benjamin] Diokno to think about easing off the brakes and look to help support the growth side of the equation,” he said. “Ben Diokno, appointed late on Monday evening, has spent his career on the fiscal side of the fence and has indicated that the ‘role of the BSP is to ensure sustained inclusive growth’,” Mapa added. HSBC Global Research, meanwhile, believes the BSP will more likely cut the reserve requirement ratio first before reducing policy rates. “We expect monetary accommodation to first come in the form of RRR cuts. We forecast a 100 basis points cut to banks’ RRR in 2Q [second quarter] as inflation moves more firmly within the BSP’s 2-4 percent target range,” it said in a statement. “Despite the downside surprise in February, prices still remain near the upper band of the BSP’s target. Indeed, core inflation came in higher than headline at 3.9 percent y-o-y, which suggests that underlying price pressures are still somewhat elevated,” HSBC added. “We also expect RRR cuts to take precedent over any policy rate cuts. The effectiveness of interest rate cuts in stimulating growth are limited due to tight liquidity in the banking system and a rising loan-to-deposit ratio amidst the highest RRR in the region.” HSBC noted that uncertainty also remained with regard to the direction of future US Federal Reserve rate hikes and pointed to lingering inflation risks from an El Niño. “We expect 100 basis points of cuts to the RRR each quarter this year beginning

Possible reduction ‘premature’ However, central bank Deputy Governor Diwa Guinigundo told reporters that “it may be premature to talk about a possible reduction in either the policy rate or the RRR at this time considering that the year to date inflation remains above the target of 2-4 percent.” Nevertheless, Guinigundo said “these policy issues will remain on the table.” “Timing is the crucial issue,” he added. Guinigundo also noted that the latest inflation print was consistent with BSP’s forecast that inflation would average around 3 percent for 2019 and 2020, “highlighting the non-persistence of supply side pressures we managed in 2018 with the tightening moves of the BSP from May through November.” He pointed out that monetary authorities continued to consider current policy settings as appropriate given emerging risks both here and abroad. More importantly, Guinigundo said the Bangko Sentral’s inflation forecasts for the next two years were anchored on the current policy rate of 4.75 percent. “The Monetary Board will be meeting this month precisely to review the stance of monetary policy given the expected new data that would be available from now until the next meeting against the backdrop of a softening global economy,” he added. In a separate statement, the central bank said “the latest inflation outturn further affirms the BSP’s projections that average inflation is expected to fall within the government’s 2-4 percent target range in 2019 and 2020, highlighting the abatement of supplyside pressures in 2018.” “The BSP will continue to keep a close watch over possible emerging risks to the inflation outlook to ensure that the monetary policy stance remains appropriate,” it added.

Downward path to continue Economic managers, for their part, welcomed the inflation slowdown and said they were optimistic that the downward path would continue for the rest of the year. “This will be backed by the recent enactment of the Rice Industry Modernization Act (RA 11203), which is

WEDNESDAY March 6, 2019

Maritime

˜ The Manila Times

w w w.manilatimes.net

EDITOR: Carmela I. Huelar

The maritime world needs more women G

ATI: Cargo flow at South Harbor improved T BY GENIVI FACTAO

HE Asian Terminals Inc. (ATI) said the collaborative synergy between port authorities and shipping lines to expedite vessel turn-around time by removing empty containers yielded positive results.

ATI said yard utilization at Manila South Harbor has reached optimal levels at 65 percent from high 90s in preceding weeks, brought by concrete steps that were undertaken by stakeholders with the support of the Bureau of Customs (BoC) and the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA). In mid-February, ATI and major international shipping lines agreed to share vessels and optimize terminal resources to immediately

evacuate empty containers from Manila and surrounding areas through Manila South Harbor. Over the past weeks, the industry has seen high inventory of empty containers, which has hampered normal truck cycles and has adversely impacted port efficiency levels. “The idea is that after cargo discharge, the vessels docked at the port will load empty containers, regardless of which shipping line

owns such container,” ATI executive Vice President William Khoury said. Doing so will greatly improve the entire container recirculation process, fast track truck turnaround time and ultimately bring port operations to optimum levels. “Today we have come together as one port community, showing that we are committed to improve trade flows for our customers and for the benefit of the entire economy,” Khoury said. “We believe this is the right direction to solve the industry-wide problem,” he added. Since then, CMA-CGM Group, T.S. Lines, Evergreen, Yang Ming Lines, Wan Hai Lines and Hyundai Maritime have fast-tracked the recirculation of empty containers to other Asian destinations, with a commitment of jointly pulling out 10,000 TEUs (twenty-foot equiv-

alent units) from Manila South Harbor on a weekly basis. In the final week of February, over 14,000 TEUs of laden boxes were delivered to customers, a record-high for Manila South Harbor. ATI has transferred over 470 TEUs of overstaying boxed cargoes to its Batangas Port in past weeks, with the approval of BoC. More overstaying cargoes will be transferred as soon as BOC processes were completed. ATI is currently complementing ongoing port efficiency measures by developing more container yard facilities outside the Port of Manila, which are expected to be operational by the second quarter. ATI is also expanding the role of its Sta. Mesa container yard to accommodate cleared overstaying laden boxes, in accordance with recent directives of PPA.

FastCat adopts alternative training for seafarers ARCHIPELAGO Philippines Ferries Corp. (APFC), the shipping company that operates FastCat, has adopted electronic training and gaming methods to train new generation of seafarers. APFC Executive Vice President Mary Ann Pastrana said technology has reshaped the seafarer training and gamification has created creative angles of perspective learning. “Today’s classrooms are filled with pedagogy that is “stale, bland, and almost entirely stuff from the past. However, today’s students are technology savvy and expect to be engaged. It’s cost-efficient and fun. Imagine a trainee repeating a gamified overhauling a couple of times before he actually get the real deal on overhauls or even develop the sense of it,” she explained. Pastrana, one of the speakers in the recently concluded 5th Annual Ferry Safety and Technology Conference in Bangkok, Thailand said FastCat was adapting alternative training to bring in competency to seafarers. She said developments in science and technology have greatly affected the seafarer training as attested by the application of ship control simulators, which continued to be increasingly sophisticated and adaptive. FastCat made innovative approach to maritime training to gear up the fleet of tomorrow.

n Archipelago

Philippines Ferries Corporation Executive Vice President Mary Ann Pastrana. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Their approaches to the fourth industrial revolution were e-learning systems, virtual and augmented reality, electronic training record books and data analytics, and gamification of trainings. “As a believer of true modernization, we harness technology as an ally in the industrial revolution. Definitely, the future bearer of competent maritime industry is to establish the current way of thinking of the people of tomorrow,” she said They were utilizing electronic technologies to access training methods outside the conventional

means. Through virtual reality, they were gamifying learning. Now that the fourth Industrial Revolution has facilitated the development of Virtual Reality (VR) technology, the number of cases where VR is applied to various onboard training exercises for crew has been on the rise. “A crew training system that incorporates VR technology can prevent crew from being exposed to risk factors during training, free time and space constraints and provide the necessary training with a better sense of reality,” she said. She cited that over 70 percent

of the respondents of Maritime Training Insights Database survey initiated by the World Maritime University expected an increase in simulators and e learning in the coming years. Through e-learning, a series of training scenarios can be created by competency alignment creating flexibility and self -paced learning. With the use of administration control, the management can control the training activities and fill the gaps that may occur during the training. Pastrana said seafarers deployed in the domestic fleet faced discrimination. Filipino seafarers discriminate the domestic profession because they see that the International Fleet is always the way to go. “It is embedded in their minds that domestic fleets have always lower standards. Crew members wanted to go aboard to earn US Dollars,” she said. FastCat currently operates 12 ships and has deployed 312 crew. APFC was founded to provide a vital maritime link between the Philippines’ 7,107 islands. Since its incorporation in 2002, it has become a trusted shipping company that owns and operates the Philippines’ first and only catamaran roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) ferries, as well as modernized ports and terminals in the eastern and western Philippine sea.

Marina slaps fines on violators of passenger rights THE Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) has imposed penalties on shipping operators who will be found to be violating the passengers’ rights. Marina has issued Marina Circular 2018-07, which established the rights of passengers in cases of canceled, delayed, or uncompleted voyages and imposing penalties for violators. All passengers of a cancelled or delayed trip have the right to information, right to refund or revalidation of ticket, right to amenities and right to compensation. If found guilty of non compliance, the shipping operator will be fined P100,000 for each voyage for the first offense; P200,000 for each voyage and a five-day suspen-

sion of operations for the second offense; and P300,000 for each voyage and a ten-day suspension of operations for the third offense. The public can report non compliance of shipping operators by filing a complaint to the nearest Marina office for appropriate action. Based on the circular, trips were considered canceled if it has been called off to more than 24 hours from the scheduled departure or to an indefinite date and time. This also covers trips where passengers have been denied boarding due to overbooking or errors in booking. If the voyage involved late departure from the point of origin resulting to late arrival in the port of destination

not exceeding 24 hours from the scheduled departure or arrival of the ship, that can be subject to complaint. Passengers of an uncompleted voyage or any trip that commenced but failed to reach its port of destination have the right to information, right to comparable transport to intended destination or to a place nearest thereto, right to amenities, and right to compensation. However, the Marina noted that these rights were absolutely applicable to passengers only if the canceled, delayed, or uncompleted voyage was caused by the shipping operator. These were not applicable if the unfortunate event was caused by the passengers themselves. The right to amenities and the

right to compensation apply only if the cancellation, delay, or non completion of the voyage is attributable to the operator. These do not apply if it is of passenger’s fault or there were extraordinary circumstances that occurred such as port traffic/ congestion or receipt of orders from competent authorities. It will also not apply if the cause is a fortuitous event like a natural calamity or any incident involving government intervention. The right to refund or revalidation of ticket applies for both cancelled and delayed voyages regardless of the cause, including extraordinary circumstance or fortuitous event. The only exception is if it is of passenger’s fault. GENIVI FACTAO

REETINGS to all women on International Women’s Day! This day has been celebrated since March 19, 1911, when more than 1 million women and men attended assemblies in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland, seeking an end to discrimination against women. Specifically, they called for women’s right to work, to vote, and to hold public office, among others. In 1975,during International Women’s Year, the United Nations began celebrating International Women’s Day on March 8. This celebration is special to women of all sectors and all countries, but I send my special greetings to the women in maritime. Scholars of ancient cultures have noted that feminine imagery dominated sea myths and legends. Their tales abound with goddesses or female mortals intervening with and for humans in their struggle with the unpredictable sea. This is why armed goddesses served as figureheads on warships inancient times. With the predominance of Catholicism in Europe during the Age of Discovery, the icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary, as Stella Maris or Star of the Sea, became a popular figurehead at the bow of a ship. By the 16th and 17th centuries, the practice of using female figureheads became prevalent, apparently to neutralize the superstition about women on board. Yes, legend has it that there was a time when sailors believed in the nautical superstition that women on ships or boats brought misfortune; that they angered the sea gods and brought rough seas and violent weather conditions. Thus, women were discouraged from boarding vessels. Today, the shipping industry has remained male-dominated. Women in jobs on board ships comprise only 2 percent of the total workforce, with most of them on board cruise vessels and domestic ferries. In this day and age, it is imperative that the industry embrace the UN SDG No. 5 on Gender Equality. In order to create a robust pool of properly trained and certificated seafarers including equally competent women, the industry must provide a unique opportunity to enhance the maritime workforce. In 1988, the IMO created a global program known as the integration of women in the maritime sector. The program introduced a gender dimension to ensure and enhance women’s access to maritime training and employment opportunities. They have encouraged the enrollment of women in IMO’s global institutions. Over the last 30 or more years, these institutions have been able to develop women maritime professionals

FROM THE DESK OF THE IMO AMBASSADOR CARLOS SALINAS who serve as role models to the younger generation. IMO has also supported the creation of Women in Maritime Associations across seven global regions. For the Asian Region, I am proud to say that the Women in Maritime Philippines Association, which is now 12 years old, has served as the pioneer in the region. It has played a critical role in raising awareness on the importance of women in maritime associations and has spearheaded programs highlighting the role of women in the maritime sector. These programs include “She to Sea” which encourages young women to enroll in nautical school and pursue a shipboard career. For this program, the association works with the maritime administration and shipowners to consider the employment of women on board. It has also established the “Women on Watch” program which looks after the safety of domestic ferries at the forefront. “Citizens of the Sea” is its marine environment program, which includes various activities involving coastal communities. With the success of these programs, the association is looked up to as a role model for other aspiring national women’s maritime associations in the Asian Region. Today, women have come in not just in the lower levels of responsibilities in the corporate ladder but also in key positions in the maritime administration, the port authority, in shipping companies, P&I Clubs, training institutes, educational institutions, ship management companies, logistics offices, and shipyards. But we need more of them! As a noted American technology executive, activist and author said, “We need women at all levels, including the top, to change the dynamic, reshape the conversation, to make sure women’s voices are heard and heeded, not overlooked and ignored.” That author is Sheryl Sandberg, who also said, “In the future, there will be no female leaders. There will just be leaders.” To our women in the maritime sector who continue to help chart the course of our industry, my good wishes to you on International Women’s Day! May you prevail in all kinds of weather, for as Jane Austen said, “None of us want to be in calm waters all our lives.”

Malaysia eyeing PH for halal value chain NORTHPORT (Malaysia) Bhd. said it was looking for partners in the Philippines that would create the Halal value chain known as the Halal Silk route. Dato’ Azman Shah Mohd Yusof, chief executive officer of Northport (Malaysia) Bhd. said the market value for Halal product was growing and the Muslim purchasing power was expected to reach RM1.1 trillion by 2030. “We need to identify the role players and create the value chain linking the Philippines to expand the Halal Silk Route,” he said. Philippines’ export of Halal products and service was valued at P5.52 billion. There are about 11 million Muslims in the Philippines. Northport said they have to put the cargo into the route and create Halal Silk route. The cargoes can be pharmaceutical, cosmetics and food. Halal is a complete traceability. The authentic halal data and full traceability as been proven crucial in global trading and supply chain. Businesses fail to penetrate the Halal export market due to lack of knowledge about Halal definition and procedures. The logistics issues were also not resolved and there were

market misconceptions and the lack of price competitiveness. To solve these challenges, they offer Malaysian Halal certification. It has Malaysia Free Zone facilities and Malaysia can be a distribution hub to the world. The Halal Silk Route One-stop center provide end-to-end integrated logistics solution, transparency on operating cost, it eliminate the negative stigma about Halal trade. It’s offers hassle -free documentation processes, competitive transportation cost and Halalan Toyyiban services. Malaysia’s integrated halal value chain port, Klang, Selangor is the Halal gateway to the world. The worldwide Halal product market value in 2016 was $45.3 billion and by 2020, it will increase to $58.3 billion. The Halal food market is expected to increase to $2.6 trillion by 2023. In Malaysia, the total Halal export in 2017 was RM 43.4 billion. The Halal food and beverage was valued at RM 20.1 billion. In Southeast Asia, Muslim population was recorded at 262 million, of which 19.2 million were Malaysians. GENIVI FACTAO

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WEDNESDAY March 6, 2019

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Maritime

C A P T. A B E L A R D O PA C H E C O

Fearless in the face of danger BY YASHIKA F. TORIB

never stopped him from sailing. “I might retire due to my age and venture to other business, but for as long as I am physically fit, I still plan to go to sea,” he shared.

The self-made man

The ordeals of the sea remained the same over the course of history — pounding, gigantic waves, depression-inducing isolation and incessant piracy. While sea bandits are no longer the sword-brandishing, eye patch-wearing thugs, one thing remains certain — pirates are the conscious, murderous dangers of the sea; so much so that global trade is disrupted and countless lives are wrecked. Piracy statistics are not improving that even the International Maritime Bureau reported a total of 180 incidents of piracy and armed robbery against ships were recorded in 2017, marking a slight decrease from 188 in 1995. More than just the figures and reports, however, are the loss of lives and the traumatic experiences of those who survived, case in point is Capt. Abelardo Pacheco. The seasoned mariner, now in his mid-60s, has encountered more obstacles than a typical seafarer would in these modern times of shipping. Many times had he been sailing in war-torn countries of Iraq and Iran, and passing through the pirate-stricken seas

Capt. Pacheco is known in his hometown in Mindoro as a selfmade man, being a consistent honor student since elementary through high school. He prepared for the life at sea through a quasi-military training in the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA), belonging to one of the top cadets in his class (Batch ’73), notwithstanding how he should learn things the hard way. Through the passing years, Capt. Pacheco learned, however, that authoritative leadership is no longer effective most especially to the men at sea. “The best formula of leadership is humility, godliness, peace of mind, and by knowing the strengths and weaknesses of your crew. Training at the PMMA is not enough to guarantee an ideal leadership,” said the veteran captain. He added that motivation was necessary to focus his crew, and this could only be done by earning their respect. According to him, a good social relationship involves interaction, humility and equality among his men. He learned the basics of human relationship with spiritual maturity as he reads the Bible everyday. “Without it, you’re at a loss,” he concluded.

HE great, deep ocean has tested sailors for more than a millennium, fueling the passions of adventurers and forging the spirits of voyagers, breaking them all apart with the tempest of storms only to make them whole again with the sight of new lands. around Somalia, Nigeria and the Strait of Malacca. As if these were not enough, he also lived through several typhoons, the most horrifying of which is the cyclone that devastated the shoreline of Madagascar in February 1997, while on his way from Brazil to China. Capt. Pacheco, was also able to save the life of a Malaysian cadet who fell ill while working aboard their ship that was supposed to sail from Malaysia to Karachi. The captain had no qualms in deviating the ship’s route to the nearest port to be able to rush his cadet to the hospital. Little did he know that he would be saving more lives in the near future.

Surviving piracy at sea The incident was, in fact, widely covered by the local and international press when it hit the wires in November 2008; MV Stolt Strength was held captive by the Somali Pirates off the Gulf of Aden in a fivemonth ordeal. The chemical tanker was carrying phosphoric acid with 21 Filipino crew members onboard when it was attacked by armed

n Capt. Abelardo Pacheco (second from right) receiving an award from the International Maritime Organization. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

men carrying automatic-rifles and rocket-propelled grenades. Capt. Pacheco recalled how he would repeatedly throw himself in front of high-powered guns to shield his crew from the pirates’ threat of murder. There were days spent lying prone on the ship’s deck as the bandits would riddle the area with bullets to reiterate their supremacy and monetary demands. It was through his inherent calm, composure, professionalism and diplomacy that he was able to earn the trust and cooperation of their abductors until they were ultimately released from captivity on April 2009 without any injury or loss of life. This feat was recognized globally and it was only until Fox News personally called for an interview

n Capt. Pacheco (left) with one of his crew after they were rescued from the pirates. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO that he realized how widely covered their situation was. Capt. Pacheco’s bravery in the face of violence and danger earned also him the 2010 Ten Outstanding Filipino Seafarer Award (Tofsa). As much as he was caught off-guard

by his unforeseen nomination, he was surprised as well to become one of the three winners of Tofsa. What would have been a gravely traumatic experience for others only served as another challenge for Capt. Pacheco — his abduction

‘Leverage on innovative solutions to stay on course’ Shipping lines required to MARITIME and technology leaders at the Sea Asia 2019 held in Singapore on Tuesday highlighted the significant role of start-up companies, particularly those in the technology sector, in bringing the maritime industry into the digital age and creating growth opportunities driven by innovation. Speaking ahead of the Sea Asia conference and exhibition in April, the leaders also brought to light the benefits that the maritime industry has enjoyed thus far as a result of the creativity and “out-of-the-box” thinking displayed by start-up companies. Kenneth Lim, chief technology officer at the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, shared how there were many compelling reasons to focus on start-ups in maritime, with start-ups presenting a push for existing maritime companies to look at new ways of doing things. “Many companies in the maritime industry are already looking at ways to transform themselves. Start-ups challenge these companies to think differently — they ask questions around why are things being done a certain way, and are there different business models that can be developed. Start-ups also provide an avenue of digitalization

have depots outside Manila

n Panelists at the Sea Asia 2019 media roundtable discussing start ups in the maritime industry. PHOTO BY ANDY LIM

to maritime companies today. “In addition, start-ups provide the opportunity for the maritime industry to attract new talent that may come from other backgrounds such as FinTech and healthcare, who may feel that they can make a difference to the maritime industry with their solutions,” said Lim. Speaking on behalf of the shipping industry, Esben Poulsson, chairman of the International Chamber of Shipping, president of the Singapore Shipping Association, and chairman of Enesel Pte. Ltd. shared that start-ups were key elements of change in the maritime industry today. “Things are changing faster in this industry than ever before. The indus-

try has made promises particularly around the environment that will force it to move quickly and start-ups are increasingly playing a larger role in helping the industry meet these promises given the emphasis they put on innovation,” noted Poulsson, adding that it was also encouraging how startups were bringing younger generation of workers into the industry. Speaking on behalf of the maritime start-up community, John Hahn, CEO and co-founder of Ocean Freight Exchange shared that with his experiences being in the industry, he understood the “pain points” that industry players were facing. Featured for the first time at Sea Asia, and sponsored by Wilhelmsen Ships Service and Panasonic Researcg

and Development Centre Singapore, the Innovation Arena provides a platform for start-up companies, winners and participants of the Smart Port Challenge 2018 to showcase their creative and innovative solutions for the maritime industry. Hand adds, “This year’s edition of Sea Asia will also explore the upcoming challenges and opportunities facing the maritime industry at a time when digitalization is on the rise and new regulations come into force. “We look forward to Sea Asia 2019 providing an international platform for maritime leaders to come together to discuss and debate how the industry can prepare itself for upcoming changes and trends.”

Iswan launches seafarers ‘Welfare Awards 2019’ NOMINATIONS are now open for the International Seafarers’ Welfare Awards 2019, which recognize the best examples of seafarers’ welfare provision across the globe. The awards, organized by the International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network (Iswan), are the only awards in the industry which put seafarers’ voices at the center. This year marks a change in the selection process — not only will seafarers nominate their chosen ports, seafarers’ centers, shipping companies and welfare personalities, for the first time in the awards’ history, seafarers will judge the final shortlist and select the overall winners. Roger Harris, Iswan’s Executive director, said, “We are excited to be doing things differently this year. We wanted to

give seafarers even more of a say in deciding which companies, organizations and individuals are honored with these awards, so this year seafarers will have the power to decide who will win. We want to showcase the best in welfare provision across the shipping industry, and who better to choose than seafarers themselves?’ Seafarers can nominate their welfare heroes through www. seafarerswelfareawards.org/ nominate. Individuals and organizations involved can also nominate for the two Dr. Dierk Lindemann Welfare Personality of the Year awards. T h e s h o r t l i s t w i l l b e a nnounced in June, and the ceremony will take place at Inmarsat’s headquarters after their crew welfare event on September 11 during London International Shipping Week.

n Last year’s International Seafarers Welfare and Assistance Network (Iswan) Posthumous Award for Outstanding Services to Seafarers’ Welfare was awarded to Pastor Joseph Chacko and Leena Joseph, who both passed away in February. Pastor Joseph Chacko was the regional superintendent at Sailors’ Society and a trailblazer in seafarers’ welfare, while Leena was a constant supporter of his work. Their daughter, Neha Joseph, accepted the award from Iswan trustee Karin Orsel. PHOTO BY ISWAN

AMID a looming port congestion problem, the Bureau of Customs (BoC) has moved to require international shipping lines to have their own depot outside of Metro Manila to store their containers. At present, shipping lines store their empty containers inside port terminals, causing congestion and delays in the turnaround of trucks and raised the additional logistic costs in the delivery. In a forum hosted by the Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FCCCII) to address the issues and concerns affecting the operations at the ports, Customs Commissioner Rey Leonardo Guerrero presented the actions taken by the bureau to address various trade challenges. Guerrero and the FCCCII, the country’s leading organization of port users, raised the idea of requiring international shipping lines to have their own depot facility to free much needed space inside port terminals currently occupied by empty container vans. As an alternative, Guerrero raised the idea of a unified or shared facility, where empty containers of all shipping companies may be accommodated can also be established and as much as possible, these shipping-line owned depots must be located near industrial areas. Guerrero has agreed to accredit said depots and also urged the Philippine Export

Zone Authority (PEZA) to have a space for empty containers. The strict enforcement of the 90-day rule on empty containers should be also undertaken, if only to penalize those that have stayed in the country for over 90 days. Thus, a re export bond should be required from shipping companies for their empty containers, while the container imbalance charge, which is now being charged to importers and brokers, should be included in the re-export penalties and taxes on over-staying empty containers. Prior to Guerrero’s appointment as customs chief in Octobert last year, his predecessor had eased the rules on mandatory x-ray examination for all red-flagged shipments to avoid port congestion as volume of importations increases. The BoC has also exempted all PEZA-bound shipments, perishable and reefer shipments, and importation of government agencies and multinational companies from being tagged “red” and should no longer undergo mandatory x-ray examination. PEZA-bound shipments are usually raw materials which are processed into finished products and re exported abroad, while perishable and reefer shipments refer to food stuffs, and poultry and meat products, among others, which are in high demand during certain times of the year. WILLIAM B. DEPASUPIL

n Containers at Sasa wharf in Davao City. PHOTO BY FAS MARITIME

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WEDNESDAY March 6, 2019

Republic of the Philippines Office of the President Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council HOUSING AND LAND USE REGULATORY BOARD SOUTHERN TAGALOG REGION – (STR)

NOTICE

PAUNAWA

Notice is hereby given that CABUYAO LAND VENTURES AND DEVELOPMENT INC. (Owner/Developer) has filed with this Office a sworn registration statement for the sale of memorial lots in ETERNAL GARDEN - CABUYAO located at Brgy. Mamatid, Cabuyao, Laguna and more particularly described as Lot 1 & 2, Psu-150313; Lot 5286; Psu-67056; Lot 5285; Lot 6669 and Lot 5229, Cad-455-D and covered by TCT’s No. T-060-2011020234 & T-060-2011020235; T-0602015027174 to T-060-2015027177 and T-060-2014005185. The project is under EO 648.

Ipinagbibigay alam na ang CABUYAO LAND VENTURES AND DEVELOPMENT INC. (May-ari at Taga-debelop) ay naghain sa Tanggapang ito ng sinumpaang aplikasyon para sa pagbebenta ng “memorial lots” sa ETERNAL GARDEN - CABUYAO na matatagpuan sa Brgy. Mamatid, Cabuyao, Laguna at sinasakop ng mga Lote Blg. 1 at 2, Psu-150313; Lote Blg. 5286; Psu-67056; Lote Blg. 5285; Lote Blg. 6669 at Lote Blg. 5229, Cad-455-D na sumasailalim sa mga Titulo Blg. T-060-2011020234 at T-060-2011020235; T-0602015027174 hanggang T-0602015027177 at Titulo Blg. T-0602014005185. Ang nasabing proyekto ay sumasailalim sa EO 648.

All papers relative thereto shall upon request and payment of processing fee, be available for inspection during business hours by any person having legal interest thereon. Absent legal impediment, the above-cited project is deemed registered and a certificate, in evidence thereof, shall forthwith be issued after five (5) days from the last day of publication. Calamba City, Laguna, 01st day of March 2019. Recommending Approval: (SGD.) ENGR. EMMANUEL G. GLIPO Head - Permits, Registration and Licensing Unit Approved by:

Ang mga kasulatang kaugnay nito ay maaring suriin ng sinumang tao na nagtataglay ng ligal na interes doon pagkatapos ng wastong aplikasyon at kaukulang bayad. Pagkaraan ng limang (5) araw mula sa huling araw ng pagkalathala ang proyektong nabanggit ay ituturing na rehistrado na at maaring bigyan ng sertipiko bilang katibayan nito kapag wala nang sagabal na ligal. Lungsod ng Calamba, Laguna, ika-1 ng Marso 2019. Recommending Approval: (SGD.) ENGR. EMMANUEL G. GLIPO Head - Permits, Registration and Licensing Unit Approved by:

(SGD.) Engr. FRANCIS D. ORDENIZA Regional Officer

MT - Mar. 6 & 13, 2019

ERRORS & OMISSIONS Any incorrect advertisement published in The Manila Times Classified Ads must be brought to our attention on the same day the advertisement came out. We will not be held liable for any incorrect ads not reported to us immediately.

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Notice is hereby given that Stock Certificate No. 0937 issued by The Country Club at Tagaytay Highlands to Suzette Fule Poblete was declared lost as per Affidavit of Loss executed by her legal heir, Socorro Fule Poblete on February 4, 2019 and acknowledged as Doc. No. 409 on Page No. 82 of Book No. 16 Series of 2019 on the notarial registry of Atty. Rely Dimapilis Laza, a notary public for and in the Province of Cavite. MT – Feb. 20, 27 & Mar. 6, 2019

EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late ANTONIA Q. SINGZON has been extra-judicially settled pursuant to the extrajudicial settlement of estate, acknowledged before Atty. Sherry Mae E. Arcales, notary public for Catbalogan City, Samar, on November 21, 2018, and entered into her notarial register as Doc. No. 380; Page No. 76; Book No. 10; Series of 2018 MT - Mar. 6, 13 & 20, 2019

NOTICE OF EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE WITH ABSOLUTE SALE Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late Amado Pio de Roda was the subject of an affidavit of Extrajudicial Settlement of Estate with Deed of Absolute Sale executed by and among his heirs and 3H Enterprises Limited Inc. represented by Selvy Sinjaya on March 4, 2019 and acknowledged as Doc. No. 133 on Page No. 28 of Book No. LXIX Series of 2019 before Atty. Enrique G. Bautista Jr., a notary public for and in the Province of Cavite. MT – March 6, 13 & 20, 2019

MT - Mar. 6 & 13, 2019

Notice is hereby given that the following Meralco Official Receipts under D.M. Consunji, Inc. with Service Identification Numbers 100200350101, 100191450101 (Admin meters – Mayfield Park Residences, Imelda Avenue, Brgy. Rosario, Pasig City); 100131380101, 100133820101 (Admin meters – Vista de Lago, Bagong Calzada, Brgy. Tuktukan, Taguig City); 429431210101, 429430890101, 429431260101 (Admin meters – Palm Grove Condominium, Dominic Savio St., Brgy. Don Bosco, Better Living Subd., Parañaque City) and Meralco Official Receipts under DMCI Project Developers 100149930101 (Mother Meter – Raya Gardens Condominium, Brgy. Merville West Service Road, Parañaque City); 100146830101 (Admin meter – Dansalan Gardens Condominium, 347 M. Vicente St., Shaw Blvd, Mandaluyong City); 100171860101, 100165360101 (Admin meters – East Raya Gardens, Mercedes Ave., Brgy. San Miguel, Pasig City); 458679810101, 458513660101 (Admin meters – The Birchwood, Acacia Estates, Taguig City) have been lost. Any transactions covered by any of the said receipts will not be honored by DM Consunji, Inc, DMCI Project Developers, Inc. and MERALCO.

MT – Mar. 6, 2019

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES NATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION NTC Building, BIR Road, East Triangle, Diliman, Quezon City Email: ntc@ntc.gov.ph; website: http://www.ntc.gov.ph 01 February 2019 MR. ANTHONY LOUEN R. FERNANDEZ Legal & Regulatory Dept. Smart Communications, Inc. 6799 Ayala Avenue, Makati City Dear Mr. Fernandez: This refers to your letter dated 31 January 2019 regarding the Google Station Smart Wifi Promo. In line with the thrust of the government to lower telecommunications service rates for the benefit of the Filipino consumers and Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW), the Commission hereby approves Google Station Smart Wifi Promo nationwide to be implemented not later than 13 February 2019 until 31 December 2019. The approval is subject to the condition that SMART shall publish the mechanics in a newspaper of general circulation three (3) days prior to the implementation. Should SMART decide not to extend the promo, it shall seek approval of the Commission within ten (10) days prior to the date of discontinuance and notice to the public shall be published in a newspaper of general circulation at least five (5) days prior to the date of discontinuance. The notice should be posted in all business centers of SMART. The Google Station Smart Wifi is a free public service of Smart and Google that provides consumers with internet connectivity in public areas. The mechanics of the promo are as follows: 1. The Google Smart WiFi promo is available nationwide at any Google Station Smart Wifi hotspot. 2. To use the Google Station Smart WiFi, user must have a Wi-Fi-capable device; to connect, user must turn on Wi-Fi and choose the “FREE Google Station: SmartWiFi” SSID from the list of available connections. 3. Once the landing page pops up, users should click the “Start” button to continue. 4. Users will be led to the Terms of Service Page. By clicking “Connect,” they agree the Terms of Service by Smart and Google. 5. Users will be shown an ad while connecting, once connected, user must click “Done” to start browsing. Once the 30 minutes free is up, the landing page will pop up once again to show another set of ads for another free 30-minutes session. This will be the cycle every time there is an advertiser available. 6. To ensure quality of usage, speeds can go up to 100 Mbps. 7. This promo will be communicated to the public through several channels such as on-site merchandising, out-of-home advertising, digital advertising, and press releases. Example of print messages: a) “Get Fast and Free Wi-Fi here” b) “Connect to Super Speed Internet.” 8. All complaints or questions that may arise from this offer shall be attended to by hotline number: *888 for Smart/Sun/TNT subscribers and 888-1111 for all users. The promo is intended for peer-to-peer and non-commercial use only. Very truly yours, (SGD.) EDGARDO V. CABARIOS Deputy Commissioner MT – Mar. 6, 2019

The University of Northern Philippines Board of Regents formally and publicly announces that the Search for Private Sector Representative in the Governing Board is now open. The following are the required minimum qualifications and documentary requirements: A. Applicants must possess the following minimum qualifications: 1. Must be resident of the place where the main or external campus is located at least six (6) months prior to the submission of application or native of Ilocos Sur though working outside the province; 2. Must have knowledge, expertise and depth and breadth of experience to the deliberations and work of the Governing Board; 3. Must be able to participate in all meetings and undertakings of the Governing Board and its committees whenever and wherever agreed upon; 4. Must be able to effectively link the University and its programs to the people of the communities; 5. Must possess linkages (local, national, as well as international) which may be harnessed for the realization of the vision, mission, and goals and objectives of the University; and 6. Prominent in field of specialization. B. Five (5) photocopies of the following documents must be submitted to the Search Committee for Private Sector Representative (SCPSR) Secretariat: 1. Formal Application Letter addressed to the CHED Chairperson; 2. Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV), signed under oath; 3. Certified true copy of documents in support of the data stated in the CV; and 4. Plans and Goals Deadline for submission of application/nomination documents shall be on March 11, 2019, Friday, 5:00 PM. Submit applications to: THE SEARCH COMMITTEE FOR PRIVATE SECTOR REPRESENTATIVE c/o UNP BOARD SECRETARY (CP No. 09175682959), 3RD FLOOR ADMINISTRATION BUILDING, TAMAG, VIGAN CITY, ILOCOS SUR. MT - Mar. 6, 2019

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Republic of the Philippines DEPARTMENT OF AGRARIAN REFORM ADJUDICATION BOARD Region IV-A Office of the Provincial Agrarian Reform Adjudicator Alvarez St., Nasugbu, Batangas

Sun Prepaid P100 Denomination: Free 20 minutes call to any country on the 3rd topup of P100 denomination load within the month of February. Validity: 30 days P200 Denomination: Free 30 minutes call to any country on the 3rd topup of P100 denomination load within the month of February. Validity: 45 days P300 Denomination: Free 40 minutes call to any country on the 3rd topup of P100 denomination load within the month of February. Validity: 60 days

The mechanics of the promo are as follows: 1. The promo is open to all Smart and Sun prepaid subscribers nationwide. 2. The promo is available via call card, Xpressload and Load conversion. To register via load conversion, subscriber should simply text TODOIDD<amount> and send to 247. 3. To use the IDD voice component, subscriber should simply dial <100>+country code+ area code + number. 4. To check the balance, subscriber to dial *221# and press SEND. 5. IDD calls are allowed anytime of the day. 6. The promo is not available to roaming and international subscribers. 7. The crediting of rewards of free minutes will be on 5 March 2019. 8. Concurrent availment of the service buckets is allowed. Existing deduction rules shall apply, first to register, first to consume. 9. All complaints or questions that may arise from this promo shall be attended by Sun hotline number: (02) 395-8000 or 247# and Smart hotline number: (02) 888-1111 or *888 The promo is intended for peer-to-peer and non-commercial use only. Subject further, to the condition that SMART shall comply with the NTC Memorandum Order No. 03-06-2009, Service Performance Standards for the Cellular Mobile Telephone Service. Very truly yours, (SGD.) EDGARDO V. CABARIOS Deputy Commissioner

MT – Mar. 6, 2019

DEPARTMENT OF AGRARIAN REFORM AND LAND BANK OF THE PHILIPPINES, Petitioners, - versus -

DCN LV-0401-0031-2017

ESTRELLITA DE LUNAS Respondent. x--------------------------------x SUMMONS AND NOTICE OF HEARING TO:

Estrellita de Lunas Langgangan, Balayan, Batangas

GREETINGS: You are hereby summoned and required to file and serve your sworn answer, affidavits and documentary evidence/s, not a motion to dismiss, to the complaint or petition, copy of which is herewith served upon you within a non-extendible period of fifteen (15) days after service hereof, exclusive of the day of service, furnishing a copy thereof to the complainant or petitioner. Failure to do so as herein directed will be interpreted by the Adjudicator as a waiver to present evidence and the hearing of this case shall commence and continue until the termination of the reception of the evidence/s for the complainant or petitioner. Complainant/Petitioner and the defendant/respondent are hereby directed to attend the hearing of the case on April 23, 2019 at 1:00 o’clock in the afternoon at the Office of the Provincial Adjudicator, Alvarez St., Nasugbu, Batangas for the purpose of asking questions to clarify the points of law at issue or facts involved in the case. Issued this 5th March 2019 at DARAB, Nasugbu, Batangas. FOR THE ADJUDICATOR: (SGD.) MARICAR B. SALAZAR Clerk of the Adjudicator

WEDNESDAY March 6, 2019 HOUSING AND LAND USE REGULATORY BOARD Expanded National Capital Region Field Office 6th Floor, Sunnymede IT Center, Quezon Avenue Quezon City

HOUSING AND LAND USE REGULATORY BOARD Expanded National Capital Region Field Office 6th Floor, Sunnymede IT Center, Quezon Avenue Quezon City

NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that DOUBLE EIGHT PRIMEVIEW DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION, (Owner/Developer), has filed with this Board for the sale of units in PARKVIEW TOWNHOMES II located at #2613 P. Villanueva St., Brgy. San Rafael, Pasay City, described as Lot Nos.1 to 4, RS291-D, TCT Nos. 003-2017000932 and 003-2017000605, with an area of 1,501.20 square meters.

Notice is hereby given that PARKVIEW TOWNHOMES CORP., (Owner/Developer), have filed with this Board a sworn registration statement for the sale of lots and units at PARKVIEW TOWNHOMES located at Figueroa Street, Brgy. San Rafael, Pasay City, specifically described as Lot 29 of the Cad Survey of Pasay, Case No. 2 GLRO Cad No. 1357 covered by TCT No. 003-2016000293, with a total area of 1,279 square meters.

The foregoing project is utilizing the Participation Through Investment/ Incentivized Compliance, by depositing the amount of Six Hundred Three Thousand Thirty Six Pesos and Eighteen Centavos (Php603,036.18) in a Trust Account No. 001-03-005615-1 under Escrow Agreement executed on 11 February 2019 between the HOUSING AND LAND USE REGULATORY BOARD, DOUBLE EIGHT PRIMEVIEW DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION, and ASIA UNITED BANK as its compliance pursuant to Section 18 of Republic Act No. 7279, as amended by Republic Act No.10884.

WARNING TO THE PUBLIC The Manila Times is warning the public that certain individuals posing as our employees have been threatening to publish articles against some companies. Anyone who receives a call from these extortionists should report the matter to the police.

The foregoing project is utilizing the Participation Through Investment/ Incentivized Compliance, by depositing the amount of Five Hundred Ninety Three Thousand Fifty Eight Pesos and 97/100 (Php593,058.97) in a Trust Account under Escrow Agreement executed on 11 February 2019 between the HOUSING AND LAND USE REGULATORY BOARD, PARKVIEW TOWNHOMES CORP. and ASIA UNITED BANK as its compliance pursuant to Section 18 of Republic Act No. 7279, as amended by Republic Act No.10884.

All papers relative thereto shall upon request and payment of processing fee, be available for inspection during business hours by any person having legal interest thereon.

Absent any legal impediment, the above-cited project is deemed registered and a certificate, in evidence thereof, shall forthwith be issued after five (5) days from the last day of publication.

Quezon City, Metro Manila, FEB. 19, 2019

Quezon City, Metro Manila, FEB. 22, 2019

(SGD) ATTY. NORMAN JACINTO P. DORAL Officer In Charge

M.T.-March 6 & 13, 2019

The Manila Times DOES NOT ask for money to stop news articles from being published. This paper does not condone any form of blackmail.

M.T.-March 6 & 13, 2019

Copy furnished: Department of Agrarian Reform thru Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer DAR Provincial Office, Marauoy, Lipa City Land Bank of the Philippines LBP Legal Services Group Field Legal Area II 2/F Land Bank Bldg., President Laurel Highway, Marauoy, Lipa City

MT – March 6, 2019

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES REGIONAL TRIAL COURT SIXTH JUDICIAL REGION BRANCH 65 SAN MIGUEL, JORDAN, GUIMARAS Land Reg. Case No. 14-0573

LRA Record No. E-ORD-2015000037

NOTICE OF INITIAL HEARING To the Hon. Solicitor General, Office of the Solicitor General, 134 Amorsolo St., Legaspi Village, Makati City; the Director, Land Management Bureau, Escolta, Manila; the Regional Director, Region VI-DENR, Iloilo City; the Hon. Secretary, Department of Public Works and Highways, Bonifacio Drive, Port Area, Manila; the Hon. Secretary, Department of Agrarian Reform, PTA Bldg., Elliptical Road, Diliman, the Director, Forest Management Bureau, Visayas Avenue, Diliman, both in Quezon City, Metro Manila; the Provincial Governor, the Provincial Prosecutor, the General Services Officer, the Provincial Engineer, the Public Works and Highways District Engineer, the CENR Officer, CENRO, Land Management Sector, all in Jordan, Guimaras; the Municipal Mayor, the Municipal Council, Nueva Valencia, Guimaras; Rogelio Magon, Ismael Magon, Ladislao Geonanga, Rosalinda Estaya, Felipe Garlitos, Ariston Gajo, Vicente Gestosani, all in Poblacion, Nueva Valencia, Guimaras; AND TO ALL WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: An application having been filed in the above entitled case by GUIMARAS RESORT DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION, represented by Agustin Zaragoza, 5th Floor, Benpres Bldg., Exchange Road cor Meralco Ave., Pasig City, thru Que Lebrilla and Associates, 2nd Floor, Hoskyn’s Building, J.M. Basa-Guanco Sts., Iloilo City by Atty. Arnold Joel C. Lebrilla, praying for the registration and confirmation of the title to the following described land. TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION Survey Plan No. : Ap-06-007725 Lot No. : 829, Nueva Valencia Cad-1256-D Portion of Lot : LRC Record No. : Land Owner/Claimant : Guimaras Resort Development Corporation Location : Barangay of Poblacion Municipality of Nueva Valencia Province of Guimaras Island of Guimaras Boundaries: Line Direction Adjoining Lots/Features 1-2-3-4-5-6 W Lot 5278, Nueva Valencia Cad. 1256-D 6-7 W Lot 403, Nueva Valencia Cad. 1256-D 7-8 W Lot 404, Nueva Valencia Cad. 1256-D 8-9-10-11-12 W Lot 405, Nueva Valencia Cad. 1256-D 12-13 W Lot 408, Nueva Valencia Cad. 1256-D 13-14-15 W Lot 8368, Nueva Valencia Cad. 1256-D 15-16-17-18-19 N and E Municipal Road 20-21-22-23-24 25-26-27-28-29 29-30-31-32-33 E Provincial Road 34-35 35-36-1 S Lot 5276, Nueva Valencia Cad. 1256-D (Lot 11, Ccs-06-000109 (OLT), portion) Tie Point

: BLLM No. 1, Nueva Valencia, Cad-1256-D

Lot Description: Line Tie Point 1

Bearing N 87° 31’W.,

Distance 1,846.87 m.

N 18° 24’E N 15° 46’W N 02° 43’E N 76° 31’E N 19° 03’W N 12° 34’E N 21° 52’E N 26° 05’E N 28° 07’E N 13° 26’E N 42° 37’W N 71° 21’W N 09° 47’E N 40°12’E S 68° 55’E S 80° 13’E S 87° 16’E N 87° 32’E S 81° 32’E S 73° 56’E S 57° 51’E S 43° 44’E S 31° 48’E S 42° 19’E S 39° 30’E S 39° 43’E S 10° 18’E S 42° 31’E S 51° 34’E S 38° 20’E S 45° 04’E S 62° 33’E S 72° 54’E S 62° 17’E S 89° 25’W S 89° 08’W

40.28 m 83.31 m 39.28 m 12.00 m 45.46 m 24.32 m 42.05 m 14.64 m 42.25 m 43.43 m 72.66 m 57.10 m 41.21 m 19.10 m 17.29 m 10.51 m 20.36 m 96.38 m 31.04 m 22.80 m 5.27 m 7.11 m 184.93 m 7.28 m 12.20 m 21.13 m 61.75 m 70.39 m 58.67 m 74.84 m 25.30 m 31.30 m 31.80 m 36.62 m 162.65 m 388.05 m

1-2 2-3 3-4 4-5 5-6 6-7 7-8 8-9 9-10 10-11 11-12 12-13 13-14 14-15 15-16 16-17 17-18 18-19 19-20 20-21 21-22 22-23 23-24 24-25 25-26 26-27 27-28 28-29 29-30 30-31 31-32 32-33 33-34 34-35 35-36 36-1

AREA : ONE HUNDRED FORTY EIGHT THOUSAND ONE HUNDRED FIFTY FIVE (148,155) SQUARE METERS, More or less Description of Corners : All corners are Old Points Bearings : True Date Prepared : December 2-15, 2015 Date Approved : August 15, 2016 Geodetic Engineer : Romeo P. Alonsabe You are hereby served this notice to appear before this court at its session to be held at Regional Trial Court, Branch 65, San Miguel, Jordan, Guimaras, Philippines, on the 18 th day of January, 2019 at 8:30 o’clock in the morning, then and there to present such claim as you may have to said land or any portion thereof and to submit evidence in support of such claim and unless you appear at said court at the time and place aforesaid, your default will be recorded and the title to the land will be adjudicated and determined in accordance with law and the evidence before the court and thereafter you will forever be barred from contesting said application (petition) or any decree entered thereon. Witness: the HON. ROSARIO ABIGAIL M. DRIS-VILLANUEVA, Presiding Judge of said Court, on the 13th day of July, 2018. Issued at Quezon City, Philippines, this 8th day of October, 2018. ATTEST:

RENATO D. BERMEJO Administrator Land Registration Authority By:

MT - Mar. 6, 2019

(SGD.) JOEL MARI MARTIN M. BIGORNIA Chief, Docket Division

World

WEDNESDAY March 6, 2019

˜ The Manila Times

w w w.manilatimes.net

Chinese authorities say 2 jailed Canadians are stealing state secrets TORONTO: China accused two detained Canadians on Monday of acting together to steal state secrets, just days after Canada announced it will proceed with a US extradition request for a senior Chinese tech executive. China arrested the two Canadians on December 10 in what was widely seen as an attempt to pressure Canada to release Meng Wanzhou, the chief financial officer of Chinese tech giant Huawei Technologies, who was arrested in

Vancouver on December 1 at the request of US authorities. Meng’s arrest set off a diplomatic furor and has severely strained Canadian relations with China. The US is seeking the extradition of Meng, who is the daughter of Huawei’s founder, to face charges she misled banks about the company’s business with Iran. China’s official Xinhua News Agency cited unidentified Chinese authorities as saying former Canadian diplomat Michael Kovrig

violated Chinese laws by acting as a spy and stealing state secrets and intelligence with the help of Canadian businessman Michael Spavor. It was the first time the two men’s cases have been linked. It said Kovrig often entered China using an ordinary passport and business visas, and acquired information from Spavor, his “main contact.” “Authorities stressed that China is a country ruled by law and will firmly crack down on criminal acts that severely undermine national

security,” Xinhua said. The same information was posted on the official news blog of the ruling Communist Party’s Central Political and Legal Affairs Commission. No other details were given and Xinhua said further judicial proceedings would “take place based on the case’s progress.” “We are obviously very concerned by this position that China has taken,” Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said. “It is unfortunate that China continues to move forward

Trump faces obstruction of justice investigation W ASHINGTON, D.C.: US Democratic lawmakers launched Monday (Tuesday in Manila) their most ambitious investigation yet into alleged obstruction of justice and abuse of office by Donald Trump, targeting dozens of individuals in the president’s inner circle. With controversies swirling around Trump, the powerful House Judiciary Committee’s chairman sent strongly worded letters to family members of the president — including sons Don Jr and Eric — as well as political confidantes and related entities. The letters demanded documents that could shed light on possible wrongdoing by the administration and Trump himself. Son-in-law Jared Kushner and the Trump Organization’s longtime chief financial officer, Allen Weisselberg, were among the 81 people and organizations — such as the National Rifle Association — receiving letters from the panel’s Democratic chairman Jerry Nadler. They also include White House ex-aides Steve Bannon and Hope Hicks, current Trump personal lawyer Jay Sekulow, former attorney general Jeff Sessions, and WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange. The request is the most serious overt ramp-up of investigations into Trump since Democrats took control of the House of Representatives in early January, and seeks to uncover whether Trump or his administration participated in obstruction of justice or public corruption — potentially impeachable offenses.

“This is a critical time for our nation, and we have a responsibility to investigate these matters and hold hearings for the public to have all the facts,” Nadler said in a statement. “Over the last several years, President Trump has evaded accountability for his near-daily attacks on our basic legal, ethical, and constitutional rules and norms,” he added. “Investigating these threats to the rule of law is an obligation of Congress.” Trump himself swatted away the probe as a “political hoax,” but said he would cooperate. He later hardened his reaction, tweeting that any effort by the Democrats to probe new avenues of possible wrongdoing “will never work.” White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders lambasted the probe as “disgraceful and abusive.” “Chairman Nadler and his fellow Democrats have embarked on this fishing expedition because they are terrified that their twoyear false narrative of ‘Russia collusion’ is crumbling,” she added. “Their intimidation and abuse of American citizens is shameful. Democrats are harassing the president to distract from their radical agenda of making America a so-

cialist country, killing babies after they’re born, and pushing a ‘green new deal’ that would destroy jobs and bankrupt America.” The unusually strong statement further claimed that “the Democrats are not after the truth, they are after the president.” Conspicuously absent from the list of Nadler’s targets — who have two weeks to respond — is the president’s eldest daughter Ivanka Trump, a senior White House advisor married to Kushner. The chairmen of three other House panels also joined the fray, demanding the White House produce details of communications between Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin, after reports that such information was destroyed or hidden in the aftermath of their 2017 Helsinki summit. The US intelligence community has concluded that Russia meddled in the 2016 presidential election, and that Putin ordered the influence campaign as a way to help elect Trump. The US president has repeatedly cast doubt on the findings. Nadler’s broad investigation focuses on Trump’s business dealings and obstruction of justice allegations, along with possible Russian collusion. It also will address accusations of campaign finance law violations and potential violations of the US Constitution’s ban on foreign emoluments. Trump’s former personal lawyer Michael Cohen, in explosive congressional testimony last week, implicated the president in illegal activities, including a scheme shortly

before the 2016 election to pay hush money to two women who say they had affairs with Trump. One of the women reportedly received the payoffs through American Media Inc, a company run by longtime Trump ally David Pecker. Nadler demanded information from both Pecker and AMI about their involvement. Letters to other key players include requests for information on the June 2016 meeting in Trump Tower attended by Kushner, Trump Jr, now-jailed former campaign manager Paul Manafort and a Russian lawyer reportedly close to the Kremlin, and documents surrounding the termination of FBI director James Comey. The expansive new probe could pave the way toward possible impeachment proceedings against Trump. But Democratic congressional leaders, including Nadler and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, have been reticent about pushing for the president’s impeachment. Nadler told ABC television’s “This Week” that such action would be “a long way down the road.” However, he added, “it’s very clear that the president obstructed justice.” In addition to the NRA, Nadler also sought documents from the White House, the Trump Organization, Trump’s charity, the FBI and Cambridge Analytica — a data company that worked with the Trump campaign and has been investigated by Congress in connection with Russia’s election interference efforts. AFP

Pope to open WW2 archives

VATICAN CITY: Declaring that the church “isn’t afraid of history,” Pope Francis said Monday (Tuesday in Manila) he has decided to open up the Vatican archives on World War 2-era Pope Pius 12th, who has been criticized by Jews of staying silent on the Holocaust and not doing enough to save lives. Describing that criticism as fruit of “some prejudice or exaggeration,” Francis told officials and personnel of the Vatican Secret Archives that the documentation would be open to researchers starting March 2, 2020. The move could speed up Pius’ path to possible sainthood, a complex process that in Pius’ case bore the weight of questions of what he knew and did about Nazi Germany’s systematic killing of Europe’s Jews. AP

GRIEF

Carol Dean, right, cries while embraced by Megan Anderson and her 18-month-old daughter Madilyn, as Dean sifts through the debris of the home she shared with her husband, David Wayne Dean, who died when a tornado destroyed the house in Beauregard, Alabama on Monday (Tuesday in Manila). AP PHOTO

Worldinbriefs

ACTING AG LEAVES US JUSTICE DEPARTMENT

WASHINGTON, D.C.: Former acting Attorney General Matthew Whitaker has left the Justice Department. Justice Department spokesman Kerri Kupec says Whitaker’s last day was Saturday. Whitaker was replaced last month when William Barr was confirmed as attorney general. He became a counselor in the associate attorney general’s office. Whitaker was elevated to acting attorney general in November after President Donald Trump ousted then-Attorney General Jeff Sessions. Whitaker was chief of staff to Sessions, who angered the Republican president by recusing himself from the Russia investigation. Democrats criticized Whitaker for past negative comments about the special counsel’s Russia probe. The House Judiciary Committee’s chairman said Whitaker didn’t offer clear responses about his communications with the White House when he testified last month. AP

ANOTHER CANADIAN MINISTER RESIGNS

n A file photo dated September 1945 shows Pope Pius 12th wearing the ring of St. Peter and raising his right hand in a papal blessing at the Vatican. AP PHOTO

TORONTO: A leading Cabinet minister in Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government resigned Monday, becoming the second minister to step down over a scandal that has shaken the government in an election year. Treasury Board President Jane Philpott, considered a star minister, said in a resignation letter that it was “untenable” for her to continue in the Cabinet because she lost confidence and could not defend the government. Philpott’s friend, former Attorney General and Justice Minister Jody Wilson-Raybould, testified last week that Trudeau and senior members of his government inappropriately tried to pressure her to avoid prosecution of a major Canadian engineering company in a case involving allegations of corruption in Libya. Wilson-Raybould resigned from Cabinet last month after being demoted to veteran affairs

on these arbitrary detentions.” Kovrig is a former diplomat who was working as an expert on Asia for the International Crisis Group think tank. Spavor is an entrepreneur known for contacts with high-ranking North Korean officials, including leader Kim Jong Un. Rob Malley, president of the International Crisis Group, said the accusations against Kovrig are unsubstantiated and unfounded. “Michael worked transparently and openly, keeping Chinese authorities

informed of what he did and of his mandate: to advise all parties, Beijing included, on steps they could take to resolve and prevent deadly conflict around the world,” Malley said. “But false accusations aside, the reality is clear for all to see. The timing of Michael’s detention and his citizenship leave little doubt as to why he is being arbitrarily detained. We continue to hope that China will do the right thing and release him so that he can be reunited with his family.” AP

Stem cell transplants cure 2 AIDS patients PARIS: A second person is in sustained remission from HIV-1, the virus that causes AIDS, after ceasing treatment and is likely cured, researchers were set to announce at a medical conference Tuesday. Ten years after the first confirmed case of an HIV-infected person being rid of the deadly disease, a man known only as the “London patient” has shown no sign of the virus for nearly 19 months, they reported in the journal Nature. Both patients had received bone marrow transplants to treat blood cancers, receiving stem cells from donors with a rare genetic mutation that prevents HIV from taking hold. “By achieving remission in a second patient using a similar approach, we have shown that the Berlin patient was not an anomaly,” said lead author Ravindra Gupta, a professor at the University of Cambridge, referring to the first known functional cure. Millions of people infected with HIV around the world keep the disease in check with so-called antiretroviral therapy (ARV), but the treatment does not rid patients of the virus. “At the moment, the only way to

treat HIV is with medications that suppress the virus, which people need to take for their entire lives,” said Gupta. “This poses a particular challenge in developing countries,” where millions are still not receiving adequate treatment, he added. Close to 37 million people are living with HIV worldwide, but only 59 percent are receiving ARV. Nearly one million people die every year from HIV-related causes. A new drug-resistant form of HIV is also a growing concern. Gupta and his team emphasised that bone marrow transplant — a dangerous and painful procedure — is not a viable option for HIV treatment. But a second instance of remission and likely cure following such a transplant will help scientists narrow the range of treatment strategies, he and others said. “The second case strengthens the idea that a cure is feasible,” Sharon R Lewin, director of the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity and the University of Melbourne, told AFP. “We can try to tease out which part of the transplant might have made a difference here, and allowed this man to stop his antiviral drugs.” AFP

Renewable energy can prevent 150M deaths

SHIFTING to renewable energy could save up to 150 million lives by the end of the century amid concerns that 6 billion people regularly inhale air “so polluted that it puts their life, health and well-being at risk,” a UN-appointed independent rights expert said on Monday (Tuesday in Manila). At the Human Rights Council in Geneva, David Boyd, Special Rapporteur on human rights and the environment, insisted that air pollution is a “silent, sometimes invisible, prolific killer” which affected women and girls more than men. This is despite the fact that the right to a healthy environment is legally recognized by 155 States, Dr. Boyd explained. “Air pollutants are everywhere, largely caused by burning fossil fuels for electricity, transportation and heating, as well as from industrial activities, poor waste management and agricultural practices,” he said. Air pollution is present both inside homes and outside and is responsible for the premature death of 7 million people each year, including 600,000 children, according to the Special Rapporteur report. “Every hour, 800 people are dy-

ing, many after years of suffering, from cancer, respiratory illnesses or heart disease directly caused by breathing polluted air,” he said, before highlighting that these deaths were preventable. Some states, such as Indonesia have begun to address the problem of indoor air pollution linked to cooking by helping millions of poor families switch to cleaner cooking technologies. In India, a government-funded program provides women with funds to buy natural gas stoves, the goal being to equip 95 percent of all target households by 2022. According to the Special Rapporteur, the number of households using solid fuels for cooking and heating is also decreasing in Latin America, parts of Asia, Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean. In the US and China, strong laws and policies promoting cleaner air have improved air quality too. In California, children’s lung function has improved, the Special Rapporteur said, while in Shenzhen, the level of particulate matter in the air has decreased by 33 percent in the past 5 years. UN NEWS

minister the month before. The scandal has rocked Trudeau’s government.

HILLARY RULES OUT 2020 BID

WASHINGTON, D.C.: Hillary Clinton has for the first time ruled out running for president in 2020. “I’m not running, but I’m going to keep on working and speaking and standing up for what I believe,” Clinton said Monday in an interview with News 12, a local TV channel in New York. Clinton was the frontrunner in 2016 but ended up losing to Donald Trump. “I want to be sure that people understand I’m going to keep speaking out,” Clinton said. “I’m not going anywhere. What’s at stake in our country, the kinds of things that are happening right now, are deeply troubling to me.” Clinton has held meetings with some of the Democrats who are now vying for the party nomination or considering a run. CNN has reported that they include former vice president Joe Biden, who has not yet said if he is running. AFP

MALAYSIA JOINS ICC

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has become a member of the International Criminal Court (ICC), a minister said Tuesday, in a boost for the beleaguered institution at a time it faces growing criticism. The ICC is the world’s only permanent war crimes court and aims to prosecute the worst abuses when national courts are unable or unwilling. But the tribunal in The Hague has come under fire over high-profile acquittals, while Burundi became the first country to quit the court in 2017 and the Philippines has announced its intention to withdraw. Malaysia’s new reform-minded government, which came to power last year, had vowed to join the ICC, and human resources minister M. Kula Segaran confirmed the country signed the tribunal’s founding treaty Monday. Malaysia becomes the 124th member of the court since its establishment in 2002. Foreign Minister Saifuddin Abdullah signed the ICC founding treaty after Malaysia’s cabinet approved the move, the foreign ministry confirmed in a statement late Monday. AFP

Build&Design

WEDNESDAY MARCH 6, 2019 EDITOR: Mario F. Fetalino Jr.

www.manilatimes.net

n Tagaytay Highlands, Belle Corp., Highlands Prime Inc., employees and executives together with volunteers from 2GO Group Inc. take part in the One Tree at a Time tree-planting activity held on Dec. 7, 2018 at Tagaytay Highlands.

n Over 500 saplings were planted across residential areas in Tagaytay Highlands as part of the premier mountain resort complex’s commitment in nurturing a sustainable environment.

ITH great luxury comes great responsibility. The line sounds like a famous one from a popular Marvel movie, but that’s straight from Tagaytay Highlands’ advocacy in environment preservation. Indeed, there is no greater aspiration than to live in the midst of nature’s grandeur. But if one is blessed with this luxury, he is also charged with the responsibility of protecting and preserving it. Tagaytay Highlands, the premier mountain resort destination in the country, continues to promote a lifestyle that is close to nature. This is evident in the abundance of flora and fauna, which mark

the Highlands’ various residential communities, complementing its sprawling greeneries and breathtaking views. To highlight this nature-inspired lifestyle and reinforce its commitment to environmental protection and sustainability, Tagaytay Highlands recently held its annual “One Tree at a Time” tree-planting activity. On Dec. 7, 2018, executives and employees of Tagaytay Highlands, B e l l e

n Belle Corp. President Manuel Gana (center) with Belle Corp. employees at the One Tree at a time tree-planting activity.

‘One tree at a time’ Corp., a n d Highlands Prime Inc. planted over 500 forest and fruit-bearing saplings donated by Sagittarius Mines Inc. across the different residential properties in this premier mountain resort complex. Sustainable materials, such as bamboo shovels, were also used during the tree-planting to align with the event’s advocacy. The annual tree-planting initiative is part of the realization of

mario.fetalino@manilatimes.net

Tagaytay Highlands founder Willy Ocier’s dream of planting 1 million trees by 2044, 50 years after the inauguration of the Club. At the opening ceremony held in Bistro Saratoga, Belle Corp. President Manuel Gana spoke before the guests, stressing that the annual event was

n A million trees are hoped to be planted by 2044.

meant to “inculcate in the minds of employees the spirit of volunteerism and that it is everyone’s commitment” to pres e r ve a n d t a k e c a r e of nature. “The tree-planting event is not just a corporate policy, but a commitment to environmental sustainability,” Gana assured the audience. “We will not just plant trees; we will also ensure their survival.” Aside from planting one tree at a time, Tagaytay Highlands Club General Manager Claire Kramer likewise noted that the club contributes to environmental sustainability by controlling the use of diesel and electricity, and lowering the consumption of water and energy.

This protocol effectively reduces their carbon footprint. The tree-planting activity was also made possible by the 2GO Group, which provided their employees, thereby promoting the spirit of volunteerism. The participants were treated to a lively boodle fight thereafter. Volunteers were requested to bring their own water bottles. These were in support of initiatives on sustainability to lessen the use of plastics and paper. Likewise, this promoted employee engagement and fellowship among the different stakeholders. “The greatest thing we can pass on to the next generation is a clean and green country. Thus, the Tagaytay Highlands will constantly be committed to preserve the finest in nature, one tree at a time,” Gana added.

n Living in the midst of nature’s grandeur is a luxury.

C3 Not all cabinets are created equal

C4 Wise to invest in Botanika

Amaia offers affordable, quality shelter

WEDNESDAY March 6, 2019

Build&Design

Not all cabinets are created equal

CCORDING to American graphic designer Milton Glaser, “there are three responses to a piece of design — yes, no and WOW.” In the city of Iloilo, there is an all-Filipino modular cabinet designer and manufacturer that has been giving home and business owners the WOW factor. DesignCrib Inc. (DCI) is a premier provider of excellently crafted systems and interior finishes ideal for residential, commercial and hospitality developments. Now on its third year, DCI has completed sophisticatedly designed kitchen, wardrobe, vanity and office cabinets that speak of top-notch qual-

ity and elegance. Using only the finest materials, coupled with technologically advanced production process where a rigid quality control procedure is in place, DCI offers a variety of brands that cater to specific markets. Euroline cabinets are supplied inside a ready-to-install

pre-fabricated form that allows easy installation. The design is sleek and clean, which is evident in the modern contemporary finishes of the materials. EcoStark is DCI’s newest introduction. It is a cabinet that transcends typical design and construction. It is a work of art that is within a price point that you cannot resist, and perfectly combines of beautify and functionality with stunning material and colors to choose from. The Alumix Structural System, on the other hand, is one of DCI’s most versatile wardrobe systems that allow you to take stock of

n Euroline cabinets are supplied inside a ready-toinstall pre-fabricated form that allows easy installation.

all your belongings at a glance. It is not only easy to install but is also effortless to disassemble and reconfigure. Most importantly, the system is made from the highest grade aluminum in the industry that can hold up to 15 kilogram (kg) per linear foot, making this wardrobe corrosion free and easy to maintain while keeping your storage space dust-free. Another innovative product expansion of revolutionary new furnishing scheme that uses a patented aluminum joinery system and encompasses the sleek minimalist design, durability and multitude configuration to optimize every storage space is the Ximula Flexible System. This is fully customizable and an integrated LED lighting system can be added to shelves and in upright way. And the best part of this system is its shelving, which can hold as much as 30kg per linear meter. Completing DCI’s range is the Samsung Staron, a 100 percent acrylic solid surface preferred by most clients because of its resistance to harsh chemicals and stains. DCI understands that every aspect of the design is significant, every specification means something and that every room is part of a bigger dream, a vision translated into reality. DCI creates spaces with cabinets that do not only look good but serve a purpose, those that you would want to look at and admire

˜ The Manila Times

w w w.manilatimes.net

n An integrated LED lighting system can be added to shelves

in upright way.

n Every aspect of the design is significant, every specification means something and that every room is part of a bigger dream — a vision translated into reality.

n DesignCrib Inc. creates spaces with cabinets that do not only look good but serve a purpose, those that you would want to look at and admire because every peso is worth it. because every peso is worth it. DCI’s attention to detail and exceptional customer service are key elements which propelled the company’s continued growth year-

on-year. With its track record and reputation in the industry, it hopes to expand the clientele base that it services and increase the magnitude of the projects they undertake.

The APEC Architect Project: A mechanism for mobility T

HE Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) is a regional economic forum established in 1989 to leverage the growing interdependence of countries in the Asia-Pacific. APEC’s 21 members (Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, China, Hong Kong China, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Peru, the Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Chinese Taipei, Thailand, United States of America and Vietnam) aim to create greater prosperity for the people in the region by promoting balanced, inclusive, sustainable, innovative and secure growth and accelerating regional economic integration. APEC is committed to a policy of reducing barriers to trade and of being a vehicle for promoting economic cooperation within the region. Within APEC are a number of sectoral groups that implement the APEC work programs, one of which is the Human Resources Development Working Group (HRDWG). In 2000, HRDWG endorsed Australia’s proposal for “The APEC Architect Project,” which aims to facilitate the mobility of architects providing architectural services throughout the region by developing means for mutual recognition of skills and qualifications. After nine meetings on the project, the participating economies agreed for a process with two features: First, that they will identify common elements of “substantial equivalence” in the areas of education, internship and practical training, registration and licensure, and practice and experience; and second, they will establish an APEC architect register and identify APEC architects.

Vertis North in Quezon City, namely Robert S. Sac, Ramon N. Vios Jr., Cecilia Cayman Gamana, Alfred Geoffrey C. Carandang, Donato B. Magcale, Marie Stephanie Magdalena N. Gilles, Francisco V. Alican, Rafael G. Chan, Daryl S. Balmoria-Garcia. The 10th conferee, past United Architect of the Philippines (UAP) National President Arch. Rozanno C. Rosal was held in deferred status. Since APEC Architect Project was launched in year 2005 in the Philippines, highly qualified and well-known Filipino architects were previously conferred APEC architects, namely Yolanda David-Reyes,

THE ARCHITECT’S PERSPECTIVE ARCH. BENJAMIN PANGANIBAN JR.

The Filipino APEC architects Last Feb. 1, 2019, nine Filipino architects were conferred APEC architects during the Philippine APEC Architects Conferment ceremony at Quezon 1 Ballroom of Seda North

P. Espina, Joseph Michael P. Espina, Annette F. Gaddi Liganor, Robert M. Mirafuente, Ma. Lourdes M. Onozawa, Benjamin K. Panganiban Jr., Runddy D. Ramilo, Jaime G. Silva, and Abelardo M. Tolentino Jr.

The APEC architect framework The aim of the APEC Architect Framework is to establish a mechanism to facilitate the mobility of architects for the provisions of architectural services throughout the region by reducing current barriers to the export of professional services. Its function is to maintain a register of APEC architects who have fulfilled common elements of the education and training requirements for professional recognition

Regulation Commission (PRC) together with the UAP and the Commission on Higher Education signed an agreement to work together as the National Monitoring Committee Philippine Section of the APEC Architects Central Council, in establishing the APEC architects registry. Its aim is to develop, operate and maintain the APEC architects registry in the Philippines in accordance with the agreements of the participating economies. It opened the doors to Filipino architects to unveil their capability, to showcase their perspective abilities and to interrelate with our counterparts within the region. The APEC Architects Central Council firmly believes that epitomizing regional cooperation and economic integration is the key to unlock Asia’s

n APEC architects from UAP. Prosperidad C. Luis, Eugene G. Gan, Edilberto F. Florentino, Froilan L. Hong, Philip H. Recto, Edric Marco C. Florentino, Romulo L. Reyes, Miguel C. Guerrero 3rd, Ana S. MangalinoLing, Jose Siao Ling, Michael T. Ang, Cesar V. Canchela, Manuel T. Mañosa Jr., Angel Lazaro Jr., Francisco T. Mañosa, Geromino V. Manahan, Remus P. Ancheta, Jose Mari A. Cañizares, Jonathan O. Gan, Daniel C. Go, Nestor S. Mangio, Rolando D.L. Miranda, Wellington P. Ong, Edward C. Tan, Teofilo I. Vasquez, Armando Dominador N. Alli, Felino A. Palafox Jr., Flordeliza S. Laperal, Severino P. Perez, Angeline T. Chua Chiaco, Norberto M. Nuke, Ernesto Antonino D. Nasol, Guillermo H. Hisancha, Danilo M. Fuentebella, Eriberto V. Aguirre, Edgar S. Calma, Ka Kuen T. Chua, Carlos F. Lacuna, Rommel A. Agulto, Ma. Niña BailonArce, Mariano S. Arce Jr., Rolando L. Cordero, Michael G. de Castro, Filna Daphne P. Espina, Omar Maxwell

in participating economies and are currently registered/licensed as architects, and who have a proven track record of professional experience as registered practitioners. This new set of Filipino APEC architects will augment and improve the quality and expertise of the Filipinos in the architecture arena including the previous 54 APEC architects in the Philippines as they make their mark and attain global status. The project is intended to facilitate the provision of architectural services between participating economies around the Pacific Rim. The principal idea here is that the participating APEC architects economies can enter into bilateral or multi-lateral mutual recognition arrangements which provide architects the opportunity to practice cross-border services faster.

Tripartite agreement In January 2004, the Professional

vast potential to spur strong and sustainable economic growth across the region. Here the Filipino architects can have the opportunity to practice and show their propensity, and definitely live a healthy and fulfilling life outside Philippine soil. Though the regional cooperation is a relatively new concept in Asia — so much so that we have only just started to measure its benefits and decipher the lessons that will help Asia move forward, the APEC architects registry is one of the many solutions ways how the Philippines and its Asian neighbors can make the big leap towards that goal, and serve as a roadmap for the Asean’s quest for a new era of development. The Asia Pacific region is coming out of the Asian economic crisis and is entering a new phase as a 21st century economic growth center. Undeniably, the APEC Architect Project has come a long way in the last 13 years. The scope of cooperation has

broadened. The discussions now are not only on the requirements for the recognition of architects by host APEC economies, but also on the many other areas which aim to sustain the growth and development of the architecture profession in this age of globalization. Over the years, the project served as a vehicle for the free transmission of information and exchange of views among its members. In areas like service where innovation is evolving at such a swift pace, it is essential to share new experiences and know-how at all levels, including government, business and individuals, rather than cementing in common rules, eventually forming networks from which rules will gradually emerge. In this sense, too, the project’s provision for free discussion will prove invaluable. Today the Philippines has 63 registered APEC architects who pay special attention to their craft and expertise as professional and registered architects, in their quest to prepare themselves for the “new economy.” The success of an industry or firm in the new economy will depend largely on its ability to create its own technology, carry out innovation as well as introduce new products and services.

PH as host to APEC Architect Central Council Meeting The overall responsibility for the operation of the APEC architect register rests with a central council composed of nominees of independent monitoring committees established for this purpose in each participating economy, and authorized by the central council to carry out its functions. The Philippines through the UAP hosted the APEC Architect Central Council Meeting in year 2010, and is set to host the council meeting in year 2020 with me as the convenor. Simultaneously, the Philippines shall also serve as council secretariat. Parallel to this meeting will be the two-day International Conference of Architects which aims to bring together leading architects in the Asean region to exchange and share their experiences and research results about all aspects of architecture. The conference will provide

the premier interdisciplinary forum for researchers, practitioners and educators to present and discuss the most recent innovations, trends, and concerns, practical challenges encountered and the solutions adopted in the field of architecture. As the world is facing major crises: political, environmental, climatic, financial and social, all of which have to do with our survival on this planet, we have to seek creative and innovative answers to all of them. For us architects, planners and designers, these present a challenge to arrive at new technological, economic, social, political and environmental solutions. As Filipino architects are working in a virtually borderless global market, our products must respond to the desires of international consumers, corporations and citizens. It does not mean that we have to sacrifice our national and cultural identities in our endeavor to be a fully developed nation. Liberalization is imminent as the demand for excellence is growing among the end users. We will see the increase of foreign technologies and expertise in our practice. The developers/clients are not going to be easy on us, as they will demand the best at competitive rates. They have the whole world at their disposal to get the best. And through the APEC Architect Project, it is imperative for Filipino architects to enhance our capacities and capabilities to be world class and equally competitive. We must be proactive in our approach to challenges facing the architecture profession. We must adapt to change but more importantly, we must coordinate our efforts towards meaningful change for the profession in this age of globalization.

(The writer is the current national president of the United Architects of the Philippines and the first national president coming from Mindanao. He has been in the Private practice for more than 33 years and is a Fellow of the UAP. He is also the first Asean architect and APEC architect coming from Davao City. He is a graduate of B.S. Architecture from the University of Mindanao and is also a Fellow of the Royal Institute of Architects Singapore.)

˜ The Manila Times

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Build&Design

WEDNESDAY March 6, 2019

Wise to invest in

Botanika

n Botanika Nature Residences is a remarkably low-density residential complex by luxury real estate brand Filigree.

Desirable location

AKING long-term investments is a wise move this year. Whether one is doing it for the first time or wants to diversify his portfolio, real estate is always a sound choice, as land and home will always have value.

Investing in luxury properties is an even better proposition given one has the resources as the market is less volatile and assets are at less risk. In choosing to invest in luxury property, sustainable design, highquality materials, and tasteful and stylish finishes, the most desirable features of the future home and the best returns in the long term should be taken into accouint. Of course, not all luxury real estate developments are created equal. From stunning high-rise communities to lush intimate neighborhoods, real estate brand Filigree not only redefines luxury but also ensures that clients get real value for their investment. The most premium of Filigree’s luxury projects is Botanika Nature

Residences — in location, design and construction, as well as features and amenities for a comfortable and stress-free life. Everything about the project is in keeping with the vision of Filigree, which has set the gold standard in property development.

Impeccable features There is an unparalleled life of comfort at this remarkably lowdensity residential complex. With garden-inspired design and features, fine details and superior quality, Botanika offers residents exclusive amenities, such as tiered pools with a sun deck in a lush setting; outdoor play area with tree houses; indoor children’s play area; and a state-of-the-art busi-

n Botanika’s main lobby features a warm, elegant design. ness center. It also has an atrium, which features running water that is calming while a scenic elevator gives an unobstructed view of the surrounding greenery. Botanika has adopted sustainable and eco-friendly features demanded by today’s discerning buyers. It’s another testament that green is the new luxury as the metropolis becomes ever congested

and polluted. Units at Botanika are wellplanned and generously laid out. The interiors complement the world-class exteriors. The units’ excellent space planning and luxurious finishes were done by multinational consultants — Miaja Design Group Pte Ltd. for interior design and Architecture International and Aecom for landscaping.

Botanika is nestled in the quietest part of Filinvest City, Alabang, the premier garden central business district in Metro South. It offers a calming retreat after a busy day while providing the perks of a modern metropolis. All essential things are within reach — learning institutions such as De La Salle Zobel, Paref Southridge School, San Beda College Alabang and Far Eastern University Alabang; medical facilities like Asian Hospital and Medical Center; shopping and commercial centers like Westgate Center and Festival Alabang; plus the five-star Crimson Hotel and the exclusive Palms Country Club. The continuous growth of Filinvest City guarantees that Botanika will increase in value. The dynamic economic hub in Metro South, Filinvest City is a live-work-play community developed from an impressive

“green” masterplan. Land values at Filinvest City averaged P300,000 net per square meter as of June 2018, a 23 percent year-on-year growth. Take-up of residential projects in Alabang almost doubled in the third quarter of 2018 as well at an average rate of 16.4 units per month, compared to 9.9 units per month in the second quarter of 2018, based on a report from Santos Knight Frank. Sales of Botanika units remain brisk, with Tower 1 now fully-functional and ready for occupancy with only a few units left. The price per square meter has been increasing since the property opened its doors and is expected to rise further now that Botanika is also available for leasing. Botanika Nature Residences is a true blue chip luxury real estate investment, one of the smartest property investments you can make.

3rd phase of Bridgepointe Place breaks ground A GROUNDBREAKING ceremony was recently held for the third phase of the 33-hectare Bridgepointe Place in San Fernando, Pampanga. The event heralded the start of construction of 158 bungalowtype housing units in the said phase of the development.

Phase 3 has the Iris model house, which boasts of a 60-square meter (sqm) lot area, and the Natalya model house, which has 96 sqm lot area. Both offer two bedrooms, one toilet and bath, kitchen, living area and dining areas, and a provision for carport. Bridgepointe Place is envi-

sioned to be a charming community with three enclaves. Phase 1 is 14-hectare (ha) Sandsfield, which is an Asian inspired community with comfortable interiors. Meanwhile, the 10-hectare Midori Garden comprises Phase 2, which boasts of Japanese-themed architectural design.

The 9-ha Trillium Park is Phase 3 which will feature contemporary design and architecture. Bridgepointe Place is PA Properties’ first project in Pampanga and its third project in North Luzon — along with two communities in Bulacan: NuVista San Jose and St. Joseph Homes Norzagaray.

n PA Properties Senior Vice President Reynaldo Ascaño (left) and Senior Vice President for Sale & Marketing Lilit Tabuso (second from left) bury the time capsule.

A 33-ha suburban sanctuary, nestled in Barangay Del Rosario, City of San Fernando, Pampanga, Bridgepointe Place is an unfolding haven that welcomes everyone with lush greens overseeing the majestic view of Mount Arayat. Easily accessible through NLEX via San Fernando Exit, commercial and industrial establishments surround the site: Universal Robina Corp., Pepsi-Cola Distributors, Asia Brewery Inc., Del Monte Philippines and Coca-Cola Plant are utmost 16-minutes away. Academic Institutions like Our Lady of Fatima University Pampanga, New Era University-Pampanga Branch and St. Scholastica’s Academy are just a stone’s throw away. Mother Teresa of Calcutta Medical Center and San Fernando Hospital are within short distance.

The groundbreaking paved the way for PA Properties’ to make its mark in the north. For 24 years, the developer has established itself a name in the competitive Philippine real estate industry by enabling the public to have their dream homes at affordable rates and payment schemes. PA Properties, which has a capitalization of P3.3 billion (as of October 2018) and has already built about 19,000 housing units in Laguna, Batangas, Bulacan, Cavite, Pampanga and Metro Manila, continues to embark on strategic expansion efforts to further build 25 additional housing communities in the next five years to help ease the more than 6 million housing backlog in the Philippines and contribute to the growth of the economy as well.

n PA Properties’ SVP-Sale & Marketing Lilit Tabuzo (third from left) and Senior Executive Vice President Reynaldo Ascaño (third from right) lead the groundbreaking of Bridgepointe Place Phase 3 in San Fernando Pampanga. Guests include veteran basketball players Nelson Asaytono (second from left) and Vince Hizon (right).

Build&Design

WEDNESDAY March 6, 2019

˜ The Manila Times

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Amaia offers affordable, T quality shelter

n The new Amaia Steps Mandaue Tower 2 in Cebu offers high quality and affordable units that cater to the needs of its prospective homeowners.

KMC boosts co-working, private office footprint KMC, the Philippines’ largest coworking and private office space provider, unveiled its first office space facility in Alabang, southern Metro Manila’s premier business destination. With this addition, KMC now boasts over 52,000 square meters of office space across 21 buildings located throughout Makati, Bonifacio Global City, Ortigas, Cebu, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Iloilo, and now Alabang.

Best location for business

KMC’s latest office space is located inside the One Griffinstone building in Filinvest City in Alabang. Filinvest City is recognized by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce as one of the best locations to do business in the Philippines, with Alabang having been named the most business-friendly local

n From left: Former senator Rodolfo Biazon; Vincenzo Tagle, managing director of Griffinstone Inc., developer of One Griffinstone; Tracy Ignacio, COO of KMC; Michael McCullough, CEO and co-founder of KMC; and Gregory Kittelson, chairman and co-founder of KMC pose for a photo during the KMC One Griffinstone launch last Feb. 21, 2019.

government unit in the country. Factors such as ease of accessibility, modern infrastructure and cost competitiveness contribute to Alabang’s appeal to both national and international businesses looking to establish or relocate business operations. One Griffinstone, Alabang’s newest property and home to KMC’s space, boasts both Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold and Philippine Export Processing Authority (PEZA) accreditations, further adding to its attractiveness as a premier location for business operations. The flexible workspace features KMC’s trademark design elements, in addition to boasting one of the KMC’s largest private office spaces, coupled with coworking spaces suitable for teams of all sizes. “With the increasing number of foreign companies that want to establish presence in the Philippines, there is a growing demand for flexible workspaces,” said KMC Managing Director Michael McCullough. “The growing number of startups and entrepreneurs also prefers flexible workspaces as they offer low capital requirements and flexible leasing terms,” he added. Aside from workspaces, KMC also offers a range of technical, legal and

HIS year is an auspicious time for Filipino families to own a new home. It’s because a brand new year evokes a time for new aspirations.

That’s what top-of-mind and affordable real estate developer Amaia Land thinks about 2019 and it exactly knows what to offer families and individuals seeking high-quality and affordable housing options — the Amaia Steps Mandaue Tower 2. Located in Mandaue, one of Cebu’s highly urbanized cities, Amaia Steps Mandaue Tower 2 is set to provide its prospective residents convenient access to the province’s famed cultural and heritage sites. Its proximity to the Mactan International Airport and to schools, shopping, dining and entertainment sites such as Pacific Mall, Gaisano Grand Mall, S&R and Ayala Center Cebu likewise gives it added value and prestige. Amaia Steps Mandaue offers units with various sizes, which can cater to the needs of its prospective homeowners. “For aspiring homeowners in Cebu, Amaia Steps Mandaue Tower 2 signifies new beginnings and a chance to settle down in our very spacious, well-designed units at very affordable prices,” Grace Guinto of Amaia Land says. “Residents will also relish spending fun weekends at the property’s swimming pool, which is expected to be completed this quarter, while they can look forward to bonding with family and friends at the courtyard,” she adds. Amaia Land brings the dream of owning an affordable and sustainable homes closer to hardworking Filipinos through easy payment options: cash, deferred cash and bank financing. It continues to serve homeowners with affordable and sustainable developments that aim to elevate the Filipino living experience in a well-secured environment.

n Photo shows the pantry area of the newly opened KMC One Griffinstone branch located in Alabang. administrative support that eases the entry of foreign companies and startups into the business arena. Among those who attended the launch included former senator Rodolfo Biazon. He said Muntinlupa was growing and there were still many empty spaces to be developed. “Alabang is the gateway to the south,” he added. Olive Rivera, division chief of the Enterprise Development Division of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), talked about the growth of Alabang as a rising central business district (CBD). She noted the commonalities between KMC and DTI with regards to mentoring startups and entrepreneurs.

Sustained vow to offer choice As established CBDs become more congested, KMC is committed to offering increased choice and convenience for companies in establishing their business operations anywhere throughout the Philippines. The company further cements its presence in Cebu with a second facility in the Cebu IT Park at Skyrise 4B to be launched next month. The first facility in Iloilo City opened its doors last year at the Festive Walk Office Tower. As a testament to KMC’s commitment to office space innovation, One Griffinstone boasts all

of the features of the ideal modern workspace, including open lounge spaces, alternative work areas and private meeting rooms. “KMC’s presence here in One Griffinstone will surely serve as a momentum for growth of business and investment in Filinvest City, Muntinlupa. We are happy to be their partners here in the south,” said Vincenzo Tagle, managing director of Griffinstone Inc., developer of One Griffinstone. Clients that have leased space from the facility have nothing but praise for its location and functionality. “The office is near the commercial establishments, public parking areas, and transportation hubs. KMC was able to address most of our requirements, such as high-speed and reliable internet connectivity and a private office that’s flexible since our company is growing, meeting rooms, and many more,” said Sheena Lamera, application integration engineer for Qualtera. “We at KMC are committed to help local and foreign businesses, entrepreneurs, and small to mediumsized enterprises in the Philippines with seamless integrated ‘plug and play solutions’ that can contribute to their growth and expansion of their operations,” McCullough said.

VINIA AND STUDIO A

Filinvest projects transform QC cityscape FILINVEST Land Inc., one of the country’s largest property developers, is proud to be a part of the rapid emergence of the newest business district in the biggest city in the country — Quezon City. Dubbed as the “City of New Horizons,” it is deemed as the next real estate investment destination, considering its location, accessibility and livability. Filinvest projects Vinia and Studio A have certainly contributed to the transformation of QC’s cityscape. The projects, both under the Filinvest brand Aspire, are dynamic high-rise residential condos that echo the millennials’ preference for having their own space and doing things at their own pace. It caters to the lifestyle that boosts independence and creates an adventure in one’s own refreshing haven. Both ideally located in two of the most progressive districts in Quezon City, Vinia and Studio A allow one to experience all around living and going around the metro for work, school or play with each projects’ close proximity to the Light Rail Transit and Metro Rail Transit network.

Studio A Studio A is a dynamic vertical condo community that boasts of youthful spirit. Designed with facilities that make everyday living more comfortable, convenient and connected through a social hub, fitness center, outdoor and indoor study lounge, swimming pool, and fitness center with yoga or dance studio, Studio A’s amenities allow you to recharge and maximize your day. Studio A units are designed to meet

n Integrating productivity and versatility in condo-living.

VINIA A 27-storey mixed-use condominium every client’s demands for comfort, style, and quality. There are only 21 units per floor, which is considered a unique indulgence for urban communities. It offers units that suit the needs and preferences of different individuals. Studios are perfect for students, while young professionals may opt for the more spacious one-bedroom unit. For start-up families, the two-bedroom units give them ample living space. Studio A also caters to the members of the academe looking for homes near the workplace.

Conveniently situated in Xavierville Avenue, Studio A makes daily essentials easily accessible being near the LRT-2 Katipunan station and major arteries like EDSA and C5. It is also a stone’s throw away from various commercial establishments and prime educational institutions like University of the Philippines Diliman, Ateneo de Manila University and Miriam College.

Vinia A 25-storey mixed-use condominium

that gently infuses city life with nature, Vinia offers flexible living spaces with its residential units and Small Office Home Office units or SOHO — Filinvest’s way of seamlessly integrating productivity and versatility in condo living. These SOHO units or versatile flats are perfect for professionals who want to work efficiently from the comfort of their homes. The residential levels have 27 to 29 units per floor suited for start-up families or young couples who have been renting or staying with their parents but are ready to

own their first home. Similarly, the Versaflat levels have 28 to 29 units per floor suited for start-up business entrepreneurs, professionals engaged in private practice or young professionals who are on the lookout for an office space for a small business to house a lean team, or a flexible space where they can work and rest. Vinia also features fine amenities such as the grand lobby and reception lounge, sky lounge, function room, and a fitness studio. Pocket gardens, garden walls and a sky park that boasts of lush flora and free-flowing air to bring residents closer to nature can also be found here. Strategically located at the lifestyle belt of Quezon City, Vinia is just a few steps away from the North Avenue MRT Station along EDSA, linking urbanites to the rest of the metropolis, particularly the booming north. Know more about Studio and Vinia by visiting www.filinvest.com or schedule a site visit by calling 632 8500888 and 0917 5457788.

Sports

WEDNESDAY D1 MARCH 6, 2019

Lowly Suns stun Bucks, Clippers deliver blow to Laker playoff hopes

www.manilatimes.net

FREE KICK ROMY P. MARIÑAS

Training day for PH women’s volley team

OS ANGELES: Kelly Oubre had 27 points and 13 rebounds, and the Phoenix Suns rallied from a 10-point late deficit to complete a season sweep of the NBA-leading Milwaukee Bucks with a 114-105 win on Monday (Tuesday in Manila).

OLLEYBALL people behind the formation of the Philippine national women’s team for the 2019 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games were reported to have opted for training camps overseas to prepare the girls months ahead of the region’s premier sports extravaganza that the country will be hosting in November. Sure, the players who would eventually be named to the women’s squad could gain from the clinics of sorts that will be conducted abroad but there is really no substitute for scouting the opposition in this year’s SEA Games and exposing the Philippine squad to its likely rivals a little more than eight months from now. You can size up the field by actually engaging the enemy in combat at a number of pre-SEA Games tournaments featuring the likes of the world-class volleybelles from Thailand or the regions crack contingents from Vietnam and Indonesia. None of the Thais, Vietnamese and Indonesians has been beaten by the Philippines in a long, long time, probably dating back to the time when the country was No. 1 in Southeast Asia, thanks to Evangeline “Vangie” de Jesus and Thelma Barina, among the greats of Philippine women’s volleyball. No one in the current crop of Filipino female volleyball players, in this Free Kicker’s opinion, has come close to De Jesus and Barina, who were members of the last Philippine team to win the SEA Games volleyball crown. Not surprisingly, the selection of members of the Philippine 6 seems to be moving at a rather slow pace, although there has been a reported huge turnout of aspirants for the 12 slots available to candidates. At the same time, however, volleyball brass (funny, but it’s men who dominate the leadership of women’s volleyball in this country) seem to be having a little turf war of their own such that the Philippine participation arguably is being jeopardized by the very same men (and a few women) who should be instead moving and shaking the sport in a positive way. Women’s volleyball in the Philippines, sadly, has been taken over by the interest of commerce, given, for one, by the fact that fans can get to watch games only in some fancy mall, not in some rural plaza. Also not surprisingly, it has degenerated into a discipline that seems to be promoted for its “sex appeal,” not for its competitiveness and the pride it gives to whoever dons the national uniform, especially when she is celebrated for her “beauty” as much as she is for her skill and nothing more. It is fairly evident that mainly collegiate players are reaping financial and social benefits from practically endorsing commercial products and, without faulting them for treating the sport as a stepping stone to a lucrative career in broadcasting or other endeavors, they are into it only while they are in school. Unlike these players, who are lionized and pampered by a fawning media, their marginalized counterparts from no- name provincial schools are more likely to play for love of country, not love for the limelight (and we don’t have any problem with that). Again, sadly, women’s volleyball is not being promoted in the provinces or the government corporate sector from where Vangie and Thelma sprang. Until women’s volleyball in the Philippines is marketed as a sport, not as a commodity, expect the national team to be beaten black and blue by the Thais, Vietnamese and Indonesians and, don’t look now, by players from Timor Leste (that is if their country decides to give women’s volleyball a try). So prepare the bandages for the battering that members of our women’s volleyball team would most likely suffer in the 2019 SEA Games.

Marinero cruises past Cha Dao-FEU

MARINERONG Pilipino rode on a balanced attack to post its first winning streak with an 87-63 rout of Cha Dao-Far Eastern University in the 2019 Philippine Basketball Association Developmental League (PBA D-League) on Tuesday at the Paco Arena in Manila. Five Skippers registered double-digit scoring as they cruised to their second straight victory. Marinero, which scored an 86-71 romp over SMDC-National University last week, also snared the solo second in the Foundation Group with a 2-1 record. “We’re just focused on our team practice everyday and we want to learn something in every practice and every game. That’s why we played good in this game,” said Marinero head coach Yong Garcia. Santi Santillan led the Skippers’ offense with a game-high 19 points on top of nine boards, two assists and a block. Jed Mendoza and Laurenz Victoria came off the bench with 16 and 12 markers, respectively, to go with a combined 14 boards. “Their (Mendoza and Victoria) extra work is now paying off. I was already expecting that their good performances,” said Garcia. Anton Asistio added 12 points built on four triples even as Matthew Aquino chipped in 10 markers. The Skippers’ second-stringers outgunned the Tamaraws’bench, 50-27. With the reserves also contributing to offense, Marinero established a comfortable 44-33 lead into the break as Arvin Gamboa notched a trey with 28 seconds left in the second quarter. Cha Dao-FEU narrowed the gap to 40-44 with a 7-0 run capped by Alec Stockton’s breakaway dunk to start the third frame. But Mendoza and Santillan joined forces to spark a counter 16-3 rally leading to a commanding 60-43 advantage and the Skippers wee not threatened from then on. Stockton had a team-best 16 points and six boards while Daniel Celzo had 12 markers for Cha Dao-FEU. The Tamaraws suffered their second straight setback and fell to No. 7 with a 1-2 slate. AMA Online Education (1-1) and Petron-Colegio de San Juan de Letran (0-1) were still playing in the second game at press time. JEREMIAH M. SEVILLA THE SCORES: MARINERONG PILIPINO (87)— Santillan 19, Mendoza 16, Asistio 12, Victoria 12, M. Aquino 10, Apreku 5, Gamboa 5, Reyes 4, A. Aquino 2, Bonifacio 2, Wamar 0, Serrano 0, Garcia 0, Buñag 0. CHA DAO-FEU (63)—Stockton 16, Celzo 12, Bienes 8, Cani 7, Tuffin 5, Comboy 5, Gonzales 4, Bayquin 2, Nunag 2, Senining 2, Roman 0, Jopia 0, Mallari 0, Dulatre 0, Tchuente 0. Quarter scores: 23-16; 44-33; 63-49; 87-63

n Giannis Antetokounmpo No. 34 of the Milwaukee Bucks attempts a shot against Kelly Oubre Jr. No. 3 of the Phoenix Suns during the second half of the NBA game at Talking Stick Resort Arena on Tuesday in Phoenix, Arizona. AFP PHOTO

Devin Booker added 22 points and Deandre Ayton hit a key layup with 35 seconds to play that gave the league-worst Suns a four-point lead. “We can’t back down when a team goes on a run,” Oubre said. “We’ve got to make our own, coming back at them.” All-star Giannis Antetokounmpo had 21 points and 13 rebounds for the Bucks, who have lost two straight games for the first time this season. Phoenix appears to have undergone a rebirth of sorts, winning three of their last four contests since suffering a franchise worst 17 game losing streak. Even more surprising is that they have now beaten Milwaukee both times they have met this season. “I don’t think we take them as seriously as we should,” Bucks Malcolm Brogdon said. “It’s just a lack of focus.” Josh Jackson tallied 16 points, Tyler Johnson scored 13 points as the Suns outscored the Bucks 38-23 in the final quarter. “It’s kind of hard to think we lost to Phoenix twice,” Antetokounmpo said. “But they played better than us.” Elsewhere, DeMar DeRozan and LaMarcus Aldridge combined for 46 points as the resurgent San Antonio Spurs won their 13th straight game at home against Denver by holding on for a 104-103 win DeRozan finished with 24 points and Aldridge scored 22 as the Spurs withstood a torrid comeback by the Nuggets who were down 21 points at

one stage and scored the final nine points of the contest. “It almost seems like we’ve just been able to flip a switch, which isn’t the easiest thing to do,” Spurs guard Patty Mills said, “It’s been our defence that has won it for us.” Jamal Murray tallied 25 points to lead the Nuggets, who also missed three shots in the final 16 seconds of the fourth. The Spurs have now defeated two of the top three teams in the Western Conference in back-to-back games after beating the Oklahoma City Thunder two nights ago. Denver dropped to two games behind two-time defending champion Golden State Warriors for the top record in the West. Rudy Gay finished with 14 points and nine rebounds, guard Derrick White had 11 points and nine assists for the Spurs, who won despite being held scoreless over the final 2 1/2 minutes. San Antonio have now won three straight and two of three games against Denver this season. Nuggets guard Murray missed a three-point attempt with 16.2 second left and Gary Harris failed on another shot from beyond the arc from the left corner as the buzzer sounded. The Spurs are now one half game behind the Los Angeles Clip-

pers who cruised to a 113-105 win over the fading Los Angeles Lakers. Danilo Gallinari scored 23 points, Lou Williams added 21 for the Clippers. Patrick Beverley was given the unenviable task of guarding superstar LeBron James and did a superb job of shutting him down.

Lakers hopes fading “I said we were the best team in LA. A lot of people didn’t believe me, it’s fine,” Beverley said. James scored 27 points and Rajon Rondo had his 32nd career tripledouble with 24 points, 12 assists and 10 rebounds for the Lakers who dropped to 30-34. TheLakersare4-8ingamesJameshas played since returning from a 17-game absence because of a groin injury. Monday’s loss was the Lakers fifth in the last six, leaving them 5 1/2 games behind eighth place San Antonio with their playoff hopes quickly slipping away. The Lakers have 18 games left, the Spurs 17 and the Clippers 16. “This was a game we needed and we didn’t take care of business,” said James. Said Lakers coach Luke Walton, “We are still not mathematically out of it.” AFP

Raptors, Rockets to play pre-season games in Japan TOKYO: The Toronto Raptors and Houston Rockets will play in two pre-season games in Japan later this year, the NBA confirmed Monday (Tuesday in Manila). A statement said the Rockets and Raptors will feature in two games in Saitama on October 8 and October 10. The two games are the first held by

the NBA in Japan since a string of 12 regular season match-ups held between 1990 and 2003. The Seattle SuperSonics and the Los Angeles Clippers were the last NBA teams to play in Japan when they faced off in Saitama in November 2003. Thirteen years earlier, the NBA had

become the first US sports league to hold a regular season game outside of North America when the Phoenix Suns and Utah Jazz met in Tokyo in November 1990. The Rockets, who played two regular season games in Yokohama in 1992, are led by 2018 NBA MVP James Harden

while the Raptors boast a roster that is currently second in the Eastern Conference standings. In recent years, NBA teams have regularly played overseas, with China hosting around 20 pre-season games since 2004. London and Mexico City meanwhile have staged regular season games since 2011. AFP

PHOENIX AIMS FOR FIRMER HOLD OF NO. 1 VS MAGNOLIA PHOENIX Pulse wants a firmer grip of the top spot when it faces Magnolia tonight in Season 44 Philippine Basketball Association Philippine Cup at the Araneta Coliseum. The Fuel Masters, with a 7-1 win-loss record and coming off back-to-back wins, want to be full game ahead of No. 2 Rain or Shine (7-2 win-loss record) as they face the Hotshots at 7 p.m. “They are coming from a championship (beating Alaska in the Governors’ Cup finals) not only last Saturday’s win. At the same time, it will be a very, very tough game with same style. So it will boil down to execution especially down the wire,” said Alas. “We must minimize our turnovers and get more rebounds. We should be consistent in 48 minutes. Their sense of urgency is very high now, so it’s going to be a test of character.” A victory by the Fuel Masters will also put them a game closer to clinching one of the twice-to-beat bonus heading to the quarterfinals. The Fuel Masters just need to win at least two of their last three games against Magnolia, Ginebra and San Miguel Beer to bag the incentive. Player of the Week Calvin Abueva is averaging 15.6 points and 11.7 rebounds in eight games for Phoenix Pulse. Magnolia is coming from a 92-86 win — its first after four games — over Meralco in Cagayan De Oro on Saturday. Meanwhile, the Hotshots (1-3) are determined to keep their playoff bid alive. Jio Jalalon, who scored 19 points to the cheer of his hometown fans in Cagayan De Oro, is expected to deliver another stellar performance for the Hotshots. In the 4:30 p.m. first game, solo second Rain or Shine tries to bounce back

n Calvin Abueva of Phoenix Pulse (No. 8) attempts a jumper against Alaska’s Carl Bryan Cruz and Chris Banchero during a Season 44 PBA Philippine Cup game at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City. PBA MEDIA BUREAU PHOTO

from Sunday’s defeat when it battles Columbian Dyip. The Elasto Painters (7-2) are gunning to sweep their last two games against Columbian Dyip and Meralco to secure

a twice-to-beat and a quarterfinal spot. Rain or Shine previously lost to TNT KaTropa, 92-100. Two-time Most Valuable Player James Yap is averaging 15.1 points in

nine games for Rain or Shine. No. 8 Columbian Dyip (3-5), still hoping for a playoff appearance, is keen to pull off an upset against Rain or Shine. JOSEF T. RAMOS

Sports

The Manila Times

WEDNESDAY March 6, 2019

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Lady Spikers to reclaim lead vs UST D BY JEREMIAH M. SEVILLA

E La Salle University eyes to regain the lead when it tangles with University of Sto. Tomas (UST) in Season 81 University Athletics Association of the Philippines (UAAP) women’s volleyball tournament at 4 p.m. today, at the FilOil Flying V Centre in San Juan City.

Ramil De Jesus’ Lady Spikers tasted a shock defeat, its first loss this season, at the hands of University of the Philippines (UP), 25-21, 20-25, 21-25, 25-20, 12-15, on Saturday. That resulted in a three-way tie at No. 1 with La Salle, Ateneo De Manila University and UP holding identical 3-1 records. Rookie hitter Jolina Dela Cruz, who scored a career-best 19 points in the previous outing, and veterans Aduke Ogunsanya, Des Cheng

and May Luna are expected to lead the four-peat seeking Lady Spikers back to the winning track. But the Kungfu Reyes-mentored UST at No. 4, is also keen to notch a bounceback win and improve its 2-2 slate. The Milena Alessandrini-less Tigresses previously lost to Far Eastern University (FEU), 25-19, 20-25, 19-25, 25-27. Alessandrini is doubtful to play today. Last season’s Rookie of the Year, sustained a partial anterior cruciate ligament tear in the second

set of their last game. Reyes will have to bank on spiker Eya Laure, who had 20 points in the last game, and graduating captain Sisi Rondina to lead their offense. In the women’s opener at 2 p.m., FEU shoots for its first win streak this season against cellar-dwelling University of the East (UE). The Lady Tamaraws tallied its second victory against two setbacks and gained a share of the fourth after taking down UST.

On the other hand, the Lady Warriors dropped to 1-3 after being routed by Ateneo 15-25, 21-25, 16-25 on Sunday. FEU will lean on third-year blocker Celine Domingo, Heather Guino-o and rookie Lycha Ebon while UE is pinning its hopes on Judith Abil and last season’s Best Libero Kath Arado. In the men’s side, FEU (4-0) aims to extend its lead against UE (1-3) at 8 a.m. while UST (2-2) hunts for a rebound win versus La Salle (1-3) at 10 a.m.

JONES COVETS LESNAR FIGHT, BUT San Beda, EAC shine in PLANS FUTURE AT LIGHT HEAVY LAS VEGAS: Even Jon Jones realizes any discus-

sion of his long-term future in the UFC is tempered by the fact that Jones hasn’t been able to stay in the cage and out of trouble for any lengthy stretch in the past seven years. But after two dominant wins in nine weeks, Jones (24-1) has settled back into his customary spot atop the light heavyweight division and his sport’s unofficial poundfor-pound standings. After trouncing another overmatched 205-pound opponent at UFC 235 on Saturday night, the champion looked into his future and insisted he is content to keep cleaning out his division instead of moving up to heavyweight. “All these younger fighters should get their opportunity at a world title,” Jones said after controlling every round against Anthony Smith. “When you’re in my position, who am I to deny people?” Jones would make one big exception, however. If Brock Lesnar wants another crack at mixed martial arts, Jones would bulk up to heavyweight to accommodate the professional wrestling superstar. “I figure if you’re going to make the gamble, you might as well go extremely big,” Jones said. “Go big or go home. A Brock Lesnar fight (is) extremely high risk and extremely high reward. I don’t really see myself versus anyone that could bring in the numbers me and Brock could bring in.” Although that superfight is among the biggest events that the UFC could stage in the broader sports landscape, it won’t happen immediately, according to UFC President Dana White. After Jones’ win over Smith, White affirmed his plan to match Lesnar first with heavyweight champion Daniel Cormier whenever Lesnar decides to return to the sport, perhaps later this year. “I think that Brock and Cormier want that fight, so I owe Cormier a lot,” White said. “Cormier wants that fight, and if he wants it, he’s going to get it.” Jones has shown little interest in fighting any other heavyweight, and he repeated that preference after beating Smith. So if Jones stays at light heavyweight, his next fight is likely to be against Thiago Santos (21-6), the

n Jon Jones, right, fights Anthony Smith in a light heavyweight mixed martial arts title bout at UFC 235 on March 2, 2019, in Las Vegas. AP PHOTO

musclebound 35-year-old Brazilian currently on a four-fight winning streak after stopping Jan Blachowicz last month in Prague. Santos is a talented, dangerous fighter, but Jones would be a heavy favorite once again. “I’m excited about the future of the light heavyweight division,” Jones said. “I’m going to have to take on any comer, and the confidence I had as a 23-year-old facing Shogun Rua has only grown. Nobody said my job was going to be easy, but I’m here to make it look easy.” Jones’ victory over Smith was his entire career in microcosm: Jones was clearly superior, yet he nearly gave it all away with a mistake. Late in the fourth round, Jones cracked Smith’s head with a knee that landed while Smith’s palm was on the canvas,

technically making it an illegal strike — one that would have been legal in, say, California, but not in Nevada due to the sport’s geographically fractured rules. The fight was stopped while referee Herb Dean reviewed the blow and allowed Smith to recover. Smith could h ave c l a i m e d h e c o u l d n ’ t c o n t i n u e fighting, and he likely would have been handed the UFC light heavyweight title by disqualification. “It was nerve-wracking,” said Jones, whose only career defeat occurred when he was debatably disqualified for a prohibited strike against Matt Hamill in 2009. “I was just hoping that it wouldn’t go down like that. I had flashbacks of the Matt Hamill fight, and I was

just thinking, ‘Oh my goodness, please tell me it’s not going down like this.’” The challenger decided to fight on after Dean deducted two points from Jones, and the champion cautiously finished off his win — after apologizing to Smith following the fourth-round bell. “He showed the heart of a lion,” Jones said. “He could have done it the easy way and took that option out, but instead he stayed in there. I owe him a beer.” Smith left the cage without winning a round, yet his confidence was unshaken. He is convinced he can fight his way back to another shot at Jones. “That’s a beatable man,” Smith said. “Jon didn’t do anything I didn’t expect him to.” AP

n Donnie Nietes (right) and Aston Palicte AFP FILE PHOTO

PALICTE THANKFUL TO NIETES FILIPINO Aston Palicte expressed his gratitude to compatriot Donnie Nietes for vacating the World Boxing Organization (WBO) super flyweight title, a development that gave him a better opportunity to become a world champion. “They (Nietes Camp) vacated the belt. We’re going to do whatever it takes to become a world champion. So I’m very thankful to them,” Palicte (25-2-1 winloss-draw record with 21 knockouts) told The Manila Times in Filipino. Palicte, 28, said they were expecting a rematch with the 36-year-old Nietes (42-1-5 record with 23 knockouts) after their fight ended in a controversial split draw on September 8 last year in Inglewood, California. “As what I have said, I will fight anyone for the world title. I’m thankful for the trust of the WBO and

Nietes. At same time, two Filipinos don’t have to compete for the world title anymore,” Said Palicte of Bago City, Negros Occidental. Among Palicte’s possible foes for the vacant WBO super flyweight belt are No. 4 Kazuto Ioka of Japan or No. 7 Jeyvier Cintron of Puerto Rico. Palicte became the No. 1 WBO super flyweight contender after beating Jose Martinez of Puerto Rico via second round technical knockout on January 31, in a world title-eliminator match at the Viejas Casino and Resort in Alpine, California. Prior to his decision to vacate the title, Nietes, the longest reigning Filipino world champion scored a split decision win over Ioka December 31 last year in Macau for the WBO super flyweight title. JOSEF T. RAMOS

NCAA beach volleyball

SAN Beda University and Emilio Aguinaldo College denied University of Perpetual Help System Dalta’s triple-crown bid and claimed a back-to-back in their respective divisions in the 94th NCAA beach volleyball tournament at the SM By the Sands in Pasay City. Twins Ella and Nieza Viray overcame a pair of early losses due to forfeiture caused by wearing of wrong uniform, swept their remaining seven matches and overpowered the rookie pair of Dana Persa and Deana Estanislao, 21-11, 21-15, in the finals to claim their second straight crown. “Our first two games were forfeited because the undies we wore were of different design,” said Ella, who has been playing beach volley since they were kids back in the beachfront of Lingayen, Pangasinan, in Filipino. The Virays, who are both taking up Bachelor of Physical Education Major in Sports, vowed to graduate next year with a three-peat feat. “We’ll go for it before we graduate next year,” said Nieza. Joshua Pitogo and Joshua Mina likewise booked a second straight men’s crown after turning back Gilbert Ghill Balmores and Jay Jay Solamillo in a nailbiting 21-19, 17-21, 15-13 win. The wins by San Beda and EAC prevented a triple kill for the UPHSD spikers, who sent all their junior, senior and women’s teams in the finals. But after yesterday’s scorching action, only the Junior Altas of Noel Michael Kampton, Hero Austria and Luis Gamban who came out with the championship by trouncing Letran, 19-21, 21-12, 15-7.

Federer rises in rankings PARIS: Roger Federer’s 100th title lifted him three places to fourth in the ATP rankings on Monday (Tuesday in Manila). Stefanos Tsitsipas, the beaten finalist as Federer made history in Dubai also inched up. The Greek climbed one place into the top 10. Gael Monfils, a beaten semi-finalist, jumped four places and back into the top 20 at 19. The biggest mover in the men’s rankings was mercurial Australian Nick Kyrgios who beat two top three players, No. 2 Rafael Nadal and No. 3 Alexander Zverev as well as No. 9 John Isner on his way to winning in Acapulco. Kyrgios leaped 39 places to 33rd. Novak Djokovic took the week off but remains a long way clear at the top, though both Nadal and Zverev gained a handful of points in Mexico. Guido Pella, who won his first ATP title in Sao Paulo on Sunday also moved up. The Argentine has the same number of points as Kyrgios but is ranked one spot lower at 34. AFP

ATP top 20:

1. Novak Djokovic (SRB) 10,955 pts 2. Rafael Nadal (ESP) 8,365 3. Alexander Zverev (GER) 6,595 4. Roger Federer (SUI) 4,600 (+3) 5. Juan Martin Del Potro (ARG) 4,585 (-1) 6. Kevin Anderson (RSA) 4,295 (-1) 7. Kei Nishikori (JPN) 4,190 (-1) 8. Dominic Thiem (AUT) 3,800 9. John Isner (USA) 3,405 10. Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE) 3,175 (+1) 11. Marin Cilic (CRO) 3,095 (-1) 12. Borna Coric (CRO) 2,695 (+1) 13. Karen Khachanov (RUS) 2,675 (-1) 14. Milos Raonic (CAN) 2,275 15. Daniil Medvedev (RUS) 2,230 16. Marco Cecchinato (ITA) 2,091 17. Fabio Fognini (ITA) 1,885 18. Nikoloz Basilashvili (GEO) 1,865 (+1) 19. Gael Monfils (FRA) 1,740 (+4) 20. Pablo Carreno Busta (ESP) 1,705 AFP

˜ The Manila Times

WEDNESDAY March 6, 2019

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Sports

Woods withdraws from Arnold Palmer over neck problem L

OS ANGELES: Former world number one Tiger Woods withdrew from this week’s Arnold Palmer Invitational on Monday (Tuesday in Manila) after failing to shake off a neck strain. In a post on Twitter, Woods said the problem was unrelated to the lower back issues which sidelined him for nearly two years, and added he had no concern over his long-term fitness. “Unfortunately due to a neck strain that I’ve had for a few weeks, I’m forced to withdraw from the API (Arnold Palmer Invitational),” Woods said.

“I’ve been receiving treatment, but it hasn’t improved e n o u g h t o p l ay. M y l owe r back is fine, and I have no long-term concerns.” Woods added he hoped to be fit for The Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass from March 14-17 as he builds towards next month’s Masters. The Arnold Palmer has been a

favorite hunting ground for Woods over the years, with the 43-year-old winning at Bay Hill a record eight times. This week’s appearance would have been his 19th participation at the event. “I’d like to send my regrets to the Palmer family and the Orlando fans,” Woods said. “Its connection to Arnold makes it one of my favorite tournaments and I’m disappointed to miss it.” Woods last played at the WGC-Mexico Championship from February 21-24, tying for 10th place. AFP

n Tiger Woods AFP PHOTO

Focus on Park as TCC Ladies begins 7 teams plunge into THIS is one tournament Sung Hyun Park expects not to lose. A day after emerging as the world No. 1 following her victory in the Women’s World Championship last Sunday, the Korean ace flaunts her world-class skills here, her sights trained on marking her rise to the top with a victory in the first $100,000 The Country Club Ladies Invitational beginning today (Wednesday) at the wind-raked TCC layout in Sta. Rosa, Laguna. Her early clash with Filipina LPGA Tour campaigner Dottie Ardina and top amateur and reigning Asian Games gold medalist Yuka Saso should stir up interest although a lot of aces are raring to sneak into early contention and get a piece of the spotlight. They include TLPGA stalwarts Babe Liu, Hsin Lee, Tzu-Chi Lin, Ching Huang and Chia Pei Lee, former LPGT winners from Thailand, led by multi-titled Yupaporn Kawinpakorn, Ploychompoo Wilairungrueng, Saruttaya Ngamusawan, Renuka Suksukont and Wannasiri Sirisampant and local talents in Princess Superal, Pauline del Rosario, Cyna Rodriguez and Chihiro Ikeda. Park, the new Solaire Resort & Casino brand ambassador who conducted a clinic among amateurs and pros alike after arriving from Singapore Monday, Ardina and Saso slug it out on No. 1 at 11:40 a.m. when playing conditions are expected to be hot and windy. The two-time Major champion also top-billed yesterday’s pro-am tournament where she played the Tom Weiskoph-designed layout for the first time although the familiarity factor won’t seem to be a problem for a player boasting of raw power off the mound, solid ball-striking and a magnificent short game. “Her ball-striking is head and shoulders above lots of people. She’s long and she’s straight,” her

caddie David Jones told LPGA. com after her Singapore romp that saw here battle back from four down off erstwhile world No. 1 Ariya Jutanugarn then beat Aussie Minjee Lee by two. “If we had a driving stat right now for strokes gained off the tee, hands down she would be

No. 1, both last week in Thailand and again in Singapore. She hits her irons good and high, and she’s a good putter. So when you add all those things together, there’s not many weaknesses in her game.” Whether it’s a drawback or a plus, Ardina and Saso still vowed to make

the most of their rare chance to be ranged against the Seoul ace, along with the other bidders for the top $17,500 purse in the 54hole championship organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc. and co-sanctioned by the TLPGA. “While she (Park) has the edge in length with her height and power, the TCC remains a tough course to score on, especially the greens which are very difficult to read,” said Ardina, also noting the layout’s new set-up following a recent renovation that further makes it doubly challenging. “I’ll try to cash in on my short game,” said the diminutive Princess Superal, who tees off two flights ahead at 11:20 a.m. with Ching Huang, winner of the ICTSI Champion Tour at Midlands last year, and Thai Chonlada Chayanun. In between is another explosive group featuring multi-titled Yupaporn Kawinpakorn and former LPGT champion Renuka Suksukont, while a slew of others are ready to go and join the chase for top honors in the richest, biggest tournament on the seven-year LPGT calendar.

n Sung Hyun Park executes practice shots ahead of the TCC Ladies Invitational that begins today. PHOTO BY ROGER RAÑADA

Southwoods Invit’l stakes car for ace A BRAND new Mitsubishi G4 Mirage will be staked as hole-in-one prize when the Manila Southwoods Golf and Country Club holds its annual Invitational tournament starting tomorrow (Wednesday, March 6) at the Masters and Legends courses in Carmona, Cavite.

Southwoods chairman Robert John Sobrepena leads the huge field of 450 players forming two-man teams disputing the titles in various divisions, including the lowes gross and overall, under the Stableford scoring system. An Ogawa massage chair will also be offered for an ace in the four-day event

sponsored by Mitsubishi Motors Phils./ Alpine Motors Corp., Royal Caribbean/ Baron Travel, Mit Air, The Turf Company and Agrexplore and backed by Crystalite Distribution Group (Monster Energy Drink) and MRT Dev. Co. Other supporters are Boeing Materials Handling Corp., CJH Golf

Club, CLTPSJ Law Office, Club Leisure, Coffee Stains, Forest Hills, G&W, GG&A, Golden Oats, Golforce, Greens N Turf, Le Chef, Megaworld Global Estate, Metro Countrywide, PBR Law Offices, Product Providers, RCNA, Solid Global Ventures, Southwoods Manor, Warbird and the Manor and Forest Lodge at CJH.

PPL inaugural action SEVEN clubs will vie for the inaugural championship in the Philippine Premier League (PPL) that will kick off on March 30 at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium in Manila. Two-time domestic champion Ceres Negros FC aims to retain its supremacy over perennial contenders Kaya FC-Iloilo, Stallion Laguna FC and United Makati FC (formerly Global Cebu FC) along with top flight returnees Green Archers United Globe FC, Mendiola FC and Philippine Air Force FC. “We thank these seven teams for confirming their participation in the PPL,” said PPL commissioner Bernie Sumayao in a statement released to the media. Last seen in the top division during the final season of the nowdefunct United Football League in 2016, Green Archers United will make its return after skipping the

Philippines Football League (PFL). Mendiola and Philippine Air Force will also get back on the pitch after playing in UFL’s second division. JPV Marikina FC will not be joining the new league, which replaced the PFL that lasted for two seasons. Davao Aguilas FC already announced its withdrawal from the 2019 football season late last year. All the participating clubs will play in both the four-round league competition and cup tournament, which is the Copa Paulino Alcantara. A double-header will kickstart the league, with the first game set at 4 p.m. and the second match at 7 p.m. that will be broadcasted live on ESPN5 Plus and livestream. The full schedule of the league fixtures will be released on March 15. JEREMIAH M. SEVILLA

Subic Bay International Triathlon unfolds April 27 THE 2019 NTT Asian Triathlon Confederation (ASTC) Subic Bay International Triathlon (SuBIT) will fire off on April 27 and 28 at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone. The latest offering of the longest running triathlon series in the country is one of two international competitions designated as a qualifying event for the 30th Southeast Asian Games that the Philippines will be hosting from December 1 to 5 this year. Organized by the Triathlon Association of the Philippines (TRAP) in cooperation with the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Tourism Department, the annual competition features Standard Distance (1.5-kilometer swim — 40km bike — 10km run), Sprint Distance (750-meter swim — 20km bike — 5km run) and Super Sprint Distance (500M swim — 16km bike — 2.5km run). At stake in the event sanctioned by the Asian Triathlon Confederation (ASTC) and supported by Philippine Sports Commission (PSC,) NTT, Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), Standard Insurance, Asian Center for Insulation Philippines and Gatorade are

qualifying points for the 2019 SEA Games triathlon event plus medals and gift items for the Top 3 categorical winners (age-group and relay). Seeded are the four gold and silver medalists of the 2017 SEA Games namely Nikko Huelgas, John Chicano, Kim Mangrobang and Claire Adorna. Expected to challenge them are 21-year-old Filipino-Spanish triathlete Fer Casares, Edward Macalalad, JC Abad, Mark Hosana, 2018 Asian Games veteran Kim Kilgroe and Junior champion Karen Manayon of Cebu. Five hundred participants have already registered to date and triathletes from Sri Lanka are joining the tilt for the first time. Registration is still ongoing with an entry fee of P5,500 per participant for Standard Distance, P5,000 for Sprint Distance, P4,000 for Super Sprint Distance and P9,000 for Team Relay. Registration will end on March 31 or when all slots have been filled up. Online registration can be done at https://regonline. activeglobal.com/subit2019 For details, visit Triathlon.org. ph or send email at trapsecretariat@gmail.com

NU in hot pursuit of defending champ Adamson in UAAP softball THE National University Lady Bulldogs blanked Ateneo, 7-0, in a shortened fiveinning encounter on Monday to remain the closest pursuers to the streaking defending champions Adamson Lady Falcons in season 81 of the UAAP women’s softball championship at the Rizal Memorial Ballpark. The victory, the Lady Bulldogs’ fifth in seven times up, glued the Sampaloc-based sluggers of Isidro Abello at second place in the seven-team cast behind the Lady

Falcons and ahead of other title pretenders University of Santo Tomas, La Salle and University of the Philippines. The Lady Bulldogs improved to 5-2 win-loss slate in seven outings so far, a full game shy of the Lady Falcons’. The idle Lady Falcons of multi-titled coach Ana Santiago, lead all campaigners with an immaculate 6-0 win-loss card after the opening round of the two-round eliminations. Last year’s losing finalists the Tigresses

and the La Salle softbelles, likewise, survived their respective assignments to continue sharing third and fourth places at identical 4-3. The Tigresses avenged their 2-3 first round loss to University of the East with a 5-1 victory, while the Lady Batters reasserted their mastery of University of the Philippines with a 10-4 decision. The Lady Maroons fell outside of the top four range with a 3-4 slate while the

Lady Warriors skidded to their fifth loss in seven games. In the varsity league’s men’s baseball action on Sunday, Ateneo turned back NU, 7-1, to top the first round with a 4-1 card, while dropping the Bulldogs to 1-4 alongside the Fighting Maroons at the bottom of the standings. DLSU topped titleholder Adamson University, 10-2, in a rematch of last year’s Finals to tie its victim at No. 2 with a

similar 3-2 record. UP stunned the Growling Tigers, 7-1, to finally barge into the win column. Baseball hostilities resume Wednesday with a triple bill also at the historic, Rizal Memorial Stadium, the first of its kind in Asia, which turns 85 year-old this year. Action starts at 7 a.m. with Adamson and La Salle testing each other’s wares and so do UST versus NU at 9 a.m. and Ateneo against UP at 12 p.m. EDDIE G. ALINEA

in cooperation with

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The 9th Business Forum

The Philippine Economic Outlook for 2019

“Riding the Tailwinds: Pursuing Growth and Value Amid Rising Global Risks” March 6, 2019 | Registration: 8:30 a.m. | Program: 9:40 a.m. - 4 p.m. | Mayuree Ballroom, Dusit Thani Manila, Makati City

The global economy enters 2019 with decidedly slower growth, continued volatility and heightened risks. Interest rates are normalizing and pushing investors in search of higher-yielding assets, as economic performance diverges across countries and regions. While the US is poised for strong performance, China is looking for a soft landing, and emerging markets are showing signs of weakness. Also heightening risks are populist policies and the prospect of trade wars. The Philippines, however, remains a bright spot as it forges ahead with its infrastructure drive, expands revenue collections, and sustains growth at above 6 percent. The domestic economy

CARLOS DOMINGUEZ III Secretary Department of Finance

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could yet ride through, if not defy, the tailwinds of 2019, getting a boost from increased spending due to the midterm elections and the slowdown in consumer inflation. The Philippines will also continue to benefit from its favorable demographic profile, with growing disposable incomes sustaining demand for property, leisure, automobiles, technology and others. The Manila Times Economic Outlook 2019 Forum will feature top policymakers and business leaders who will make the case for the Philippines’ continued viability as an investment and growth hub.

NICHOLAS MANT

Head of the Credit and Investment Risk Unit Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank

Rosemarie Bosch-Ong

Director, SEVP and COO Wilcon Depot President, Philippine Retailers Association

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Country Director ADB Philippines

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WEDNESDAY MARCH 6, 2019

Entertainment

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Charo Santos, Bea Alonzo topbill new horror flick ‘Eerie’ A BY IZA IGLESIAS

SIA’S Best Actress Charo Santos and this generation’s movie queen Bea Alonzo are sharing the big screen for the first time but not in a heavy drama as moviegoers would expect. Surprisingly — or better yet — thrillingly, these highly regarded actresses have gone out of their comfort zones to star in a horror flick by young and multiawarded director Mikhail Red, titled “Eerie.” The proudly Philippine production successfully premiered at the Singapore International Film Festival in December 2018, and marks Alonzo’s first foray into the horror genre, while serving as a follow up to Santos’ 2016 acting comeback via Lav Diaz’ “Ang Bababeng Humayo.” Incidentally, Santos only has one other horror movie in her filmography, the late Mike de Leon’s “Itim” in the late ‘70s. At a media conference on Saturday, Alonzo said it was a dream come true to be able to work with her longtime boss, Santos, who retired as ABS-CBN President and CEO in 2015. “Dream come true po para sa akin ang makasama sa isang frame si Ma’am Charo. Honestly, noong

umpisa, talagang kinakabahan ako. Hindi ko alam kung ano ba dapat yung expectations ko, but

when the workshops and meetings came, alam n’yo parang ibang hat ang suot ni Ma’am Charo. She was not the top ABS-CBN executive I came to know but an actress in every way,” Alonzo praised her senior co-star. “And she is always open to collaboration so ibang pakiramdam ‘yung, parang nag-share kayong dalawa ng art, kaya hindi ko maka-

isang artista at isa siya sa mga hinahangaan ko sa mga kabataang artista. I felt very excited to work with her also because she’s a very intelligent and generous actress. She works hard and is a true professional,” responded Santos.

Director in awe Without a doubt, their young but accomplished film director was totally in awe to have two of the Philippines’ best actresses on his movie set. “It was intimidating to be sure, but once I got to know them — from pre-production, discussions, look tests and shooting itself — ang gaan ng set. We had no problems and our schedule

n Alonzo plays the role of Pat, a guidance counselor who tries to resolve the mysterious deaths of students at a conservative all-girls school.

HREE of the eight best picture nominees at this year’s Academy Awards are connected to “what it is to be African American,” namely “Black Panther,” “BlacKkKlansman” and “Green Book.” “Green Book” got the Oscar. While both “Green Book” and “Black Panther” were released in cinemas here, Spike Lee’s brilliant, scary, startling, sad, triumphant, funny and eye-opening “BlacKkKlansman” was not. As the film opens you read: “Dis joint is based upon some fo’ real, fo’ real shit.” “BlacKkKlansman” tells the story of Ron Stillworth. He became the first black officer at the Colorado Springs Police Department in the ‘70s and was assigned to do undercover work. Eventually, he got to infiltrate the Ku Klux Klan and to interact with former “Grand Wizard” David Duke. Duke has been a leading white supremacist, Holocaust denier and anti-Semite for decades. He is played here by “That 70’s Show’s” Topher Grace — who puts in this memorable performance as a looming figure who can be so gracious, so well spoken and convincing and yet have such incredibly twisted views. In an IMDB interview, the actor said, Duke was a “terrible character but juicy role, I was dying to play him.” He also shared with Vanity Fair, doing research to get into character and saying all that racist rhetoric was difficult, “It’s a scary thing as a performer, especially if you are really, really liberal or have very different

n Seasoned actresses Bea Alonzo (left) and Charo Santos with young and noted 'Eerie' director Mikhail Red. went very smoothly. Nakuha namin lahat ng shooting days,” Red happily revealed. “As a young filmmaker, ang la ging mahirap gawin is to balance your authority — na kailangan

Int’l co-production Eerie is hinged on the mysterious deaths of some students at the conservative, all-girls school Sta. Lucia Academy. As Pat, Alonzo plays the role of guidance counselor who tries to solve the case. She suspects the murderer to be the school’s fanatical overseer Sor Alice, portrayed by Santos. A key witness who can provide answers to the haunting string of deaths is the ghost of Eri, a student who committed suicide on the school grounds more than a decade ago. According to Red, what makes the movie a stand out is that it “fuses western influences and local flavors.” “The film’s surface has very familiar elements like yung urban legend of having a ghost in a restroom. We start with something fa-

miliar and as the story progresses,

doon namin ipapakita yung bali. Ito yung anchor para may kakapitan yung audience and then slowly mari-realize nila, may layers pala ang film na ito,” Red noted. “Another interesting factor is that Eerie is one of the first international co-productions of Star Cinema. Nag-partner-up sila with a Singapore-based production company, Cre8 Productions, after I pitched this movie to them. And sobrang swerte ko as a filmmaker na na-decide nila na i-finalize yung movie together. So hindi lang namin goal sa pelikulang ito to show it to the local audience but ito yung type of film na gusto naming i-export na dapat proud tayo of its quality,” he continued. The director consequently noted that doing a horror movie is indeed very technical requires strict visual elements, including precise camera movements and timing. And while he found all these aspects very challenging, he guarantees the audience will get their money’s worth once they have seen the movie. Completing the cast of Eerie, which gathered very positive reviews after its Singapore premiere, are Jake Cuenca, Maxene Magalona-Mananquil, Gillian Vicencio, Mary Joy Apostol and Gabby Padilla. Produced by ABS-CBN FilmsStar Cinema and Cre8 Productions, the movie opens on March 27 in Philippine cinemas with simultaneous international screenings across Southeast Asia, another first for a Filipino film.

‘BlacKkKlansman: ’The brilliant film you missed T

A touching reunion on the campaign trail

bagong laban na ito para sa akin dahil sa apat at kalahating taon kong nakakulong, wala akong kasiguraduhan kung makakalabas pa ako at kung lalabas ang katotohanan.”

kalimutan itong experience na ito, besides the fact that it is also my first horror movie, my first time to work with Mikhail Red, and first time to join an international festival. So isang milestone ito para sa akin,” she added. Santos, on the other hand, was just as excited to work with Alonzo whose career she has followed from the very beginning. “Bea was only 13 years old when I met her. Talagang nasundan ko ang kanyang career bilang

n Ramon 'Bong' Revilla Jr. is reunited with Liwayway Gacusan, a resident of Candon, Ilocos Sur who took in the actor-politician 30 years ago when he was stranded during a super storm.

values, as I do, than that character.” Grace even reportedly got a threatening phone call after playing Duke. John David Washington does a great job as Ron Stillworth. He is the son of acting great Denzel Washington, who was in another important Spike Lee film, 1988’s “Malcolm X.” Adam Driver plays Ron’s colleague, Flip Zimmerman, who is a key part of the infiltration scheme. Driver was nominated for Best Supporting Actor. Spike Lee did a walk out when “Green Book” won for Best Picture. That film had its share

of controversy via some tweets by writer Nick Vallelonga, and some people pointed out the “white savior” element in this film on racial harmony. In comparison, “BlacKkKlansman” does make “Green Book” look ‘cute.’ “BlacKkKlansman” makes one think more seriously about the times we live in, that people stick so blindly to their beliefs, there is no room at all for dialogue. It takes a look at the Trump presidency as well. Lee uses footage from “Gone With the Wind.” D.W. Griffith’s “Birth of Nation” and in the end, the Charlottesville, Virginia “Unite the Right” rally in August of 2017 along with sound bytes from the President. While this film has action, humor, intelligence and wit, it also brings viewers in on the perspectives of its characters. I recently picked up Ta Nehesi Coates’ “Between the World and Me” which is a letter to his son about what it means to be black in the United States in these times. This film is a great companion piece (as are Spike Lee’s other films) as it brings viewers like me closer to the issue. Also, watch out for the cameo by Harry Belafonte as an elderly activist recalling the lynching of Jesse Washington in May 1916. BlacKkKlansman is available via iTunes and Amazon Prime.

FAN GIRL KAREN KUNAWICZ

n Adam Driver and John David Washington as detectives Philip and Ron.

tawag ko sa kanya at siya ang kumupkop sa akin ng isang linggo over 30 years ago when I was stranded here dahil sa napakalakas na bagyo. Nasira ang mga tulay at hindi ako nakauwi.”

niya ang nagsisilbing inspirasyon ko para sumabak muli dito at manilbihan sa bayan,” Revilla’s sharing ended. TESSA MAURICIO-ARRIOLA

»popcornmatch

n For the first time, Nadine Lustre stars in a movie without real life boyfriend James Reid. She is partnered with Carlo Aquino in 'Ulan.'

Nadine goes solo in ‘Ulan’ SINCE landing her first lead role on the big screen across would be reel and real life boyfriend James Reid in 2014 (Viva Films’ “Diary ng Panget”), blossomed actress Nadine Lustre is finally going solo in a promisingly poetic movie titled “Ulan.” Her seventh full feature to date (not counting a few cameos in between), Lustre takes on the demanding role of Maya, a young woman alternately fascinated and fearful of rainfall. Written and directed by Irene Villamor — who earlier achieved critical and commercial success with ‘Sid and Aya: Not A Love Story’ and ‘Meet Me in St. Gallen’ — Ulan sees Maya growing up to believe that the rain in various forms has massive effects on her life. She is fearful that rainstorms can result in tragedy and yet is eagerly expectant of the romantic emotions that can come with a sweet kiss under the raindrops. “My lola in the movie fueled Maya’s fear of the rain with her stories about the tikbalang —

that when it rains, kinakasal daw

sila tapos pinagbabawalan silang umibig,” Lustre shared at the

movie’s media conference. “But wala siyang bahid ng horror which is surprising to lot of people who think that because may tikbalang na imagery, horror or thriller ang Ulan. It’s actually a romance movie — a love story — and it’s also about finding yourself.” Asked about her experience working without Reid in a movie for the first time, the actress — who dodged questions on their rumored live in status — admitted,

»popcornmatch

“Siyempre nakakapanibago kasi sanay ako na nandiyan palagi si James, and siya ‘yung palagi kong kaeksena. Pero hindi naman ako nahirapan kasi ang sarap pong magtrabaho sa movie na ito with

our director and the rest of the cast.” Lustre’s co-stars in Ulan are Carlo Aquino, Marco Gumabao, AJ Muhlach, Joseph Elizalde, Ella Illano, and Perla Bautista. The movie opens on March 13 in cine mas nationwide.

Funtimes

WEDNESDAY March 6, 2019

˜ The Manila Times

w w w.manilatimes.net

Solution to puzzle

» CROSSWORD

BY EUGENE SHEFFER

»HOROSCOPE

Today’s Birthday (03/06/19). Your professional influence grows this year. A strong network of support leads your team to success. Discover fresh passion this summer, leading to shifting team priorities. Win your game together this winter, before resolving a romantic challenge. Love is your magic key. Strengthen your heart connections. To get the advantage, check the day’s rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most challenging. ARIES (MARCH 21-APRIL 19) -- Today is a 7 -- Insights, breakthroughs and revelations sparkle under this New Moon. Dreams seem within reach. Practice benefits a philosophical, spiritual and mindful phase. Make long-term plans. TAURUS (APRIL 20-MAY 20) -- Today is a 9 -- Take a group endeavor to new heights. Breakthroughs in friendship, social networks and community provide cause for celebration under the New Moon. Provide well for family. GEMINI (MAY 21-JUNE 20) -- Today is a 9 -- Professional opportunities shine under this New Moon. Accept new responsibilities as you prepare. Develop a project from an idea to reality. Your influence is rising. CANCER (JUNE 21-JULY 22) -- Today is an 8 -- Study with a master. Education, travels and exploration sprout under this New Moon. Consider different perspectives. Learn another cultural view. Expand your horizons. LEO (JULY 23-AUG. 22) -- Today is a 9 -- Find creative ways to grow your family’s nest egg. A lucrative phase dawns with this New Moon. Launch a profitable initiative together. Strengthen bonds. VIRGO (AUG. 23-SEPT. 22) -- Today is a 9 -- Partnership blossoms under this New Moon. Start a new chapter together. Align toward your shared long-term interests and commitments.

» SUDOKU

BY NANCY BLACK Collaboration sparks and kindles. LIBRA (SEPT. 23-OCT. 22) -- Today is an 8 -- Nurture yourself before caring for others. Fresh energy floods your work, health and vitality under this Pisces New Moon. Power into physical routines. SCORPIO (OCT. 23-NOV. 21) -- Today is a 9 -- A romantic relationship transforms. This New Moon sparks a family, fun and passion phase. It’s all for love, and love for all. Follow your heart. SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22-DEC. 21) -- Today is an 8 -- Wrap your love around home and family. A new domestic phase arises with this New Moon. A seed planted long ago flowers. Tend your garden. CAPRICORN (DEC. 22-JAN. 19) -- Today is an 8 -- Adapt to the news. Connect and network. Profit through communication and creative expression. Breakthroughs arise in conversation under this New Moon. Share gratitude and appreciation. AQUARIUS (JAN. 20-FEB. 18) -- Today is a 9 -- Step into expanding prosperity. Another chapter begins. Silver slides into your pockets with the New Moon. Reap an abundant harvest. Grab the low-hanging fruit. PISCES (FEB. 19-MARCH 20) -- Today is a 9 -- A personal phase dawns with this New Moon in your sign. Take charge to realize a personal dream. Grow your talents, capacities and skills.

(Astrologer Nancy Black continues her mother Linda Black’s legacy horoscopes column. She welcomes comments and questions on Twitter, @LindaCBlack. For more astrological interpretations like today’s Gemini horoscope, visit Linda Black Astrology by clicking daily horoscopes, or go to www.nancyblack.com.) NANCY BLACK. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC BY ROGER SEVILLA

Complete the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 square contains the digits 1 to 9 with no repeats. Solution from yesterday’s puzzle.

˜ The Manila Times

w w w.manilatimes.net

Camp Pag-ibig holds annual day camp

Public Square

WEDNESday March 6, 2019

OPPO announces 2019 technology advances in first global Innovation Event M

DIFFERENTLY-abled children from the second district of Quezon City participated in the arts and crafts activity of the 43rd Camp Pag-ibig at Balara Filters Park in Barangay Pansol on February 17. Over 1000 children from different

cities in Metro Manila also gathered in the annual day camp. The children participated in activities such as storytelling and swimming, as well as understand the different types of disasters and the importance of disaster preparedness.

Muntinlupa celebrates 24th anniversary,  opens Museo ng Muntinlupa MUNTINLUPA Mayor Jaime Fresnedi led the celebration of Muntinlupa City Charter Day and the soft launching of Museo ng Muntinlupa on March 1, declared as special non-working holiday in the city. Fresnedi invited residents and visitors to experience interactive galleries and immerse in the history of Muntinlupa showcased in the five-story museum located by the shore of Laguna de Bai, Centennial Avenue, Brgy. Tunasan. “This project was envisioned years ago and now we are able to create this much needed venue for discovery and creativity,” Fresnedi

said. “We want our community to be proud of our history including the trials and tribulations. Muntinlupa is home to very talented artists and this serves as a platform for them. Our museum, your museum, is an inspirational venue where everyone can learn and enjoy, we call it ‘edutainment’.” One of the fastest growing cities in the country today, the City of Muntinlupa has risen from a small fishing village and agricultural land to becoming a commercial business district and center of industry and trade. For more information, visit info@museongmuntinlupa.com.

Gallery Genesis holds watercolor competition ESTABLISHED in 1981 by art collector Araceli “Chichi” Salas, Gallery Genesis has become a venue for talented artists to nurture, express and exhibit their artworks. Gallery Genesis pioneered the practice of issuing certificates of authenticity for all artwork bought from the gallery. It also pioneered the concept of having “exclusive” in-house resident artists. After a while, the gallery established the Kulay sa Tubig Invitational Water Color Competition and Exhibition. Salas felt that watercolors are underappreciated

as a medium of visual art when in fact, it is the most difficult medium to handle and master. For about 30 years, the Kulay sa Tubig competition has become one of the better-known art competitions among the artists and various artist group in the country. “It is the competition that has really raised the bar of watercolor painting and art in general in the Philippines and advanced the career of otherwise obscure artists,” said Felipe de Leon, former chairman of the National Commission on Culture and the Arts.

VIVE Building rises in Makati KAYDEE VELASCO, architect, UAP, CBP, launched her first building construction at Montojo, Makati City. Velasco’s Vive building development, a multi-use commercial and residential building development, showcases that sustainable architecture can indeed be done even

in the heart of the metro. Velasco, president, CEO and principal architect of KMVAsia Development Corp., has also been designated as the managing director of MV Capital Investments Ltd., the Hong Kong-based venture capital firm of the DC Group of Companies.

Happy Beach Cebu opens new attractions

OBILE giant OPPO made announcements behind its 2019 advancements in mobile technologies during its first global Innovation Event in Barcelona, Spain on February 23. Debuting a world-first 10x lossless zoom technology and industry leading developments in 5G technology, OPPO is cementing its reputation as an innovator in the mobile communications space. “Innovation is our top priority and we have made many recent developments to bring the future into consumer’s hands,” OPPO Vice President Anyi Jiang, commented “We look forward to continuing with this commitment and bringing to market more advances particularly in 5G and photography.” During the event, OPPO announced its first 5G smartphone and the OPPO 5G Landing Project, committing to bring new levels of performance and efficiency that will empower new use

n OPPO hosts its first global Innovation Event in Barcelona, Spain. to take professional style photographs. cases and connect new industries. OPPO also introduced Optical OPPO also presented the world’s first 10x lossless zoom technology, empower- Image Stabilization (OIS) on both ing users and providing the opportunity the main camera and the telephoto

lens to achieve higher, anti-shake accuracy that brings people closer to the world around them so that they never miss the unmissable.

SM’s Share-a-toy benefits children nationwide THE SM Store recently brought smiles and joys to thousands of kids around the country as they received new bundles of toys — educational board games, plush toys, play sets and novelty items — from SM’s Share-A-Toy campaign. In partnership with Toy Kingdom, booths were set up in all The SM Store and Toy Kingdom branches nationwide, encouraging shoppers to donate new and pre-loved toys for the benefit of the less fortunate children. As a result, about 53, 139 toys were donated by generous shoppers. Each donation entitled the customer to a P50 discount coupon which can be redeemed for every minimum P500 single-receipt purchase of regular-priced toys at any branch of The SM Store and Toy Kingdom valid until Dec. 31, 2019. Share-a Toy is one of the ways The SM Store and its customers team up to share blessings to the less fortunate. Other upcoming 2019 store-based projects include Donate-A-Book and Give the Gift of Wellness.

n Children from the Eugenia Ravasco Day Care Center in Parañaque City receive toys from The SM Store’s ShareA-Toy campaign. Present during the ceremonial turnover are Eugenia Ravasco Day Care Center President Sister Adriana Yepes, Student Teacher Sister Geisa Beyuma, Program Manager Lenny Galleta and The SM Store VP Operations and Corporate Social Responsibility Head Ma. Cecilia Abreu.

Metrobank Foundation celebrates 40 years AS it celebrates its 40th year anniversary, Metrobank Foundation Inc. (MBFI) hosted a special gathering to honor distinguished individuals and institutional partners and to commemorate the memories of its late founder George S. K. Ty, held at the Le Pavillon, Metropolitan Park in Pasay City on February 21. “Forty years and hundreds of meaningful collaborations later, hope has not waned; rather it persists with tenacity that the goals we have set will be realized,” said MBFI president Aniceto Sobrepeña. “We look forward to stronger collaboration and broader spaces for multi-sectoral involvement of generations to come.” Guided by the theme “Puso at Sigasig,” a new batch of awardees were conferred the Award for Continuing Excellence and Service (ACES) awards, along with the

n The Ty Family receives a sculpture named ‘Generosity’ in commemoration of the late George S.K. Ty. presentation of the Partner in Em- socio-civic organizations, media, standing contributions to nationbuilding, a special exhibit focusing powerment, Advocacy, and Com- academe and business. To commemorate Ty’s unparal- on his being a pillar of the banking mitment to Excellence (Peace) to institutional partners from the leled leadership, generous spirit, industry, corporate philanthropy, government, non-government and compassionate heart, and out- and as patron of the arts was put up.

UnionBank’s Ron Batisan receives YMMA award

n Lawrence Li Tan of Happy Beach Cebu and Grace Bondad Nicolas of The Manila Times Business Section. THE newest beach resort, Happy Beach, recently opened its latest attractions at the resort branch in Cebu. The resort’s attractions include Happy Jungle Lounge, Pink Bali Lounge, Inflatable Island and Unicorn Island. “To date, were very happy w h e n we l a u n c h e d H a p py Beach Cebu on Dec. 15, 2018, the first millennial, Bali and

Disneyland cross over resort concept in the country,” said Lawrence Li Tan, Happy Beach’s CEO. “This will be followed with four to five more concepts that are all unique and hopefully will again be a catalyst in each of the categories that each concept will be in.” For more information, visit https://www.happybeach.ph.

RON BATISAN, project owner of UnionBank’s The ARK — the country’s first fully digital bank branch — was honored by Mansmith and Fielders, Inc. during its 14th YMMA Awards for excellence in marketing, sales and entrepreneurship. “Doing marketing for a bank is a very difficult task because we are governed by circulars, compliance and policies,” Batisan said in his speech. “Bank products and services are almost the same so it’s really hard to differentiate. But we have been taught to be great in making the difference for UnionBank against its peers which is the mark of an excellent marketer.” Batisan, an assistant vice president at UnionBank, was tasked to lead the making of The ARK, a first-of-its-kind bank branch. He used the customer experience framework of process, space and

n UnionBank customer experience expert Ron Batisan (center) receives his Young Market Master Award. With him from left: YMMA Chairman Josiah Go, judges Robrina Go and Venus Navalta and YMMA President Chiqui Escareal-Go. people, to build a place where banking is redefined, digitization is embraced and bridging offline

to online is done seamlessly. True to form, The ARK has not only elevated the bank branch

experience but has also received prestigious citations worldwide barely a year since its launch.

Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office PCSO extends lives of cancer, kidney transplant patients BY LIZ LAGNITON

ECOGNIZING that teachers play a key role in nation-building, the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) has intensified its assistance to mentors of Filipino students, particularly those in need of medical assistance.

One of them is 47-year-old elementary teacher Arlene Tison from Bacolod City who was diagnosed with meningioma in 2010, the most common type of tumor that arises from the meninges – the lining of the brain. “I was diagnosed in 2010 through MRI. Though the tumor is benign, it had to be removed as it was getting bigger, so surgery was recommended that same year,” Arlene said, adding that she suspected something was wrong when she started walking abnormally and talking a bit fast. “My head sometimes hurt, especially when I woke up in the morning, and sometimes I became nauseous,” she said, adding that her doctors recommended an immediate operation which they performed on July 10, 2010. “Malaki yung nakuhang tumor. Mas malaki pa sa baseball ball, tapos matigas-tigas siya,” she said. Most of meningiomas are benign and are technically not tumors but they can become cancerous and they do grow, raising the possibility of squeezing adjacent brain cells, nerves and vessels.

Two battles in a long war After the operation, all went well until six years later when doctors found that the meningioma had again grown and required another surgery. “Sa second operation ko noong 2016, doon na natabingi yung

mukha ko, tapos yung lakad ko hindi na tuwid. Sabi ng doctor, nadaanan yung 7th nerve ko.

Na-touch daw kaya ganun. Parang kung titingnan mo yung mukha ko ngayon, parang na-stroke ako, kasi tabingi,” teacher Arlene said. Arlene has been getting an MRI every six months since the diagnosis to monitor a possible recurrence. She was also advised by her doctor to undergo physical therapy three times a month to repair her deformed face and improve her walking. But her salary as a provincial teacher was not enough to cover the said regular MRI and therapy so she found herself seeking assistance from the PCSO’s Bacolod branch so she could at least sustain her maintenance medication. “Malaki ang tulong ng PCSO sa akin sa hospital bill ko nung

naoperahan ako. Malaking tulong talaga kasi hindi permanente ang trabaho ng husband ko. Tapos mga anak ko nag-aaral pa. Kung walang PCSO, baka hindi ako makapag -therapy at MRI. Medyo mahal kasi, hindi namin afford. Salamat po talaga sa PCSO,” Arlene said.

Helping ma’am fight for life Another teacher from Bacolod who has been getting help from the PCSO is 74-year-old retired high school teacher Evelinda Echon who is fighting colon cancer. Echon consulted a doctor after she experienced loose bowel movement and found streaks of blood. “My doctor referred me to a gastroenterologist and requested me to have a colonoscopy. It was then found out that at the end of

my colon, there was a thing that looked like an egg so I was operated immediately,” Evelinda narrated. After the operation, Evelinda was advised to have oral chemotherapy and a series of CT scans for colonoscopy to check her colon. The retired teacher said she was able to get help from PCSO for these medical needs. “I really want to thank God for all these things, and our government for having the PCSO that continues to help not only to me, but all who seek help for their various medical needs. If there’s no PCSO, ano na lang ang magagawa

ng mga taong maysakit na tulad ko?” Evelinda asked. “So I always pray na huwag sana kukunin ang PCSO sa amin because it helps us a lot,”

n Patients seeking assistance line up at the PCSO's satellite office at the Lung Center of the Philippines in Quezon City.

What is IMAP?

she concluded.

Nursing oneself to survive Meanwhile, another beneficiary from Bacolod is 60-year-old Elizabeth Vera Cruz who regularly needs maintenance medicine after a kidney transplant. A retired nurse, Elizabeth was diagnosed with acute glomerulonephritis, another form of end stage renal failure, and underwent two years of dialysis before she had her kidney transplant in 2002. “It was my pre-employment medical exam, doon nakita na may kidney problem ako through urinalysis. So from 1994, nag-start ako ng medication, continuous ang medication. Pero after 20 years, bumigay na yung kidney ko nag-shrink na, kidney failure na,” Elizabeth recalled. According to Elizabeth, before diagnosis, she had an upper respiratory tract infection, so it was believed that the upper infection bacteria went into her kidney. “After 20 years na treatment sa kidney ko, year 2002, tumaas na yung creatinine ko, tapos nagkaanemia na ko, bumaba na yung hemoglobin ko,” Elizabeth narrated.

THE Invidividual Medical Assistance Program (IMAP) is the flagship program of PCSO which was institutionalized in 1995 to provide timely and responsive financial assistance to individuals with health-related problems. With the Guarantee Letter as the medium used in providing such services addressed to health facilities (hospitals, dialysis centers, etc.), the PCSO assumes the obligation of a specific amount due from the client for the services rendered. The amount of the assistance is based on the classification system established under the program. Services covered are Confinement, Medicines (including epoietin injection), Dialysis (hemodialysis and peritoneal), Implant, Laboratory/Diagnostic Procedures, Radiation Therapy, Devices, Non- and Minimally Invasive Procedures, Transplant Proce-

Due to very low hemoglobin, Elizabeth was admitted to the hospital for a blood transfusion and she was advised then to undergo kidney transplant in order to survive. Luckily, Elizabeth was sponsored by the National Kidney Transplant Institute (NKTI) Foundation located in Quezon City. “So hindi na ako nagdalawang-isip, grab ko na agad. Yung mga kasama ko

nga sa trabaho, natakot kasi dito lang sa Bacolod gagawin, but my doctors

dures (like kidney and liver), Cardiac Procedures, Rehabilitative Therapy and Surgical Supplies. An individual is qualified for IMAP if he/she is admitted in a health facility; outpatient, yet receiving health care management; or seeking health care management in foreign countries provided that the Philippines has no health facility that provide the needed process.

Documentary requirements Patient is required to sumbit a duly accomplised application form (available for download at www. pcso.gov.ph) or at the PCSO Lung Center of the Philippines Satellite Office, PCSO Branch Offices and ASAP Parnter-Hospitals) presenting Valid IDs of both the patient and the representative.

assured me that everything would be okay,” Elizabeth said. Her nephew donated his kidney and the NKTI determined that the kidneys matched so NKTI surgeons went to Bacolod to conduct the transplant for Elizabeth, the first successful kidney transplant in Negros Occidental. But Elizabeth has to religiously take medicine the rest of her life to ensure that the transplanted kidney will not be rejected. Transplant medicine is costly so

she asked help from PCSO. “Before, nahirapan ako sa pag-

bili ng mga gamot ko kasi ang mamahal! Hirap na hirap ako. My friend told me, ‘bakit hindi ka magpunta sa PCSO?’ Sabi ko, talaga meron? After 13 years, saka ko lang nalaman na pwede palang humingi sa PCSO,” Elizabeth said. “Hulog talaga ng langit ang PCSO. It’s an answered prayer na may tulong pala ang government natin na maibibigay sa katulad ko,” Elizabeth ended.

ANNOUNCEMENT PCSO hereby announces the resumption of the processing of Small Town Lottery (STL) application in PUERTO PRINCESA CITY.

PCSO raises minimum lotto payout to P24 BY SHELLY BUSQUE LOTTO players hitting three numbers in the lotto games of PCSO, namely Lotto 6/42, Megalotto 6/45, Superlotto 6/49, Grandlotto 6/55 and Ultralotto 6/58 get a higher prize starting March 1. Where the fourth prize used to be only P20, it’s now P24 in observance of the 24th year milestone of The Philippine Draw Lotto, since its first draw on March 8, 1995. Additional products significantly increased PCSO’s funds in providing assistance to millions of Filipinos nationwide through medical healthcare,

likewise provided job opportunities to many notably in the grassroots level with its Small Town Lottery (STL). Lotto draws are shown live on television via People’s Television Network Channel 4 (PTV4).

Train law imposes tax on winnings In 2017, the implementation of Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) law led higher taxes to a lot of products and services like automobiles, sweetened beverages, tobacco, coal, cosmetic procedures, petroleum products, coal, mining, includ-

ing PCSO’s documentary stamp tax (DST). Lottery tickets were also subjected to higher DST, leaving PCSO with no choice but to implement the Train law, imposing a 20-percent tax on winnings of more than P10,000 from Lotto, Keno, Small Town Lottery (STL), Sweepstakes and other PCSO products. The new price betting scheme for Lotto and other gaming ticket prices from P5 to P6, P10 to P12, and P20 to P24 took effect on July 23 last year. The agency’s charter states that 55 percent of its revenues must be allocated for prizes, 30 percent for its charity fund, and 15 percent for operational expenses.

Submission of application with complete documents together with the Required Refundable Deposit in the form of Manager’s Check is until March 14, 2019, 3:00 P.M. to the Advisory Committee for STL located at the 4th Floor of Sun Plaza Bldg., 605 Shaw Blvd., Mandaluyong City. For more information you may visit our website www.pcso.gov.ph or email us at

acspcso@gmail.com