BusinessWeek Mindanao (January 6, 2020)

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Briefly Qatar Fund THE Qatar government hopes to fund development projects in the Philippines focused on infrastructure, human capital development and assistance to the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

In a statement Friday, Finance Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez III said the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) has committed to provide assistance in these areas.

Mr. Dominguez said QFFD will likely help fund the government’s efforts to support BARMM, peace-building programs in the south, and strengthen Islamic banking.

It will also support targeted sectors such as education, fisheries development, rural infrastructure development, health care, disaster risk reduction and management and the energy sector.

Fastest economy THE Philippine economy remained one of the best performers in Asia after rebounding from an initial slowdown in the first two quarters of 2019 amid obstacles, reflecting the government’s spending catchup and easing inflation.

Socioeconomic Planning Secretary and National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Director General Ernesto Pernia said the goal of advancing to an upper middle-income status is “going to be surer this year”.

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CDO coops to bring water to rural areas www.businessweekmindanao.com

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Monday|January 6, 2020

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By JIGGER JERUSALEM, PNA

GROUP of cooperatives here have pooled resources together to put up their own water company to bring potable water to the city’s rural areas.

In a joint venture agreement signed Thursday, the Mindanao Cooperatives Water Service Federation ( MC WS ) - - a g roup of cooperatives mainly based

in Cagayan de Oro--and Kyogojo Engineering Service Cooperative (KESC) agreed to operate their own water system with an initial capital WATER/PAGE 9

7th Kuyamis Fest 2020 opens today in Misor

By GERRY LEE GORIT, Reporter

MISAMIS Oriental--The 7th Kuyamis Festival 2020 officially starts today (January 6) and will culminate on January 11, said Provincial Tourism Officer Atty. Jeffrey C. Saclot.

Saclot said that one of the flagship programs of Governor Yevgeny Vincente "Bambi" Emano is about promoting tourism, celebrate agricultural abundance, and KUYAMIS/PAGE 9

KUYAMIS FESTIVAL 2020 OPENING SALVO. Kuyamis Festival 2020 kicks off today, January 6, with a grand parade and streetdancing competition to be participated by various municipalities and cities in Misamis Oriental. At right, a collage of a Kuyamis (young buko) inspired Custume worn by Miss Kuyamis 2020 hopeful Ms.Samantha Pauline Feranil of Gingoog City.The gown already won as "Best in National Custume" in Miss Philippines Earth in 2018 and 2019 worn by Ms.Berjaneth Chee and Ms.Ana Monica Tan respectively. mdn file photos by gerry lee gorit

Water firm maintains legal operations in Oro villages

By JIGGER JERUSALEM, PNA

ARMED with a court order, the water provider servicing the Barangay Lumbia and other upland villages in

Cagayan de Oro City is insisting it has the legal right to operate despite opposition from local officials and some

residents.

Jed Lasmarias, general m a n a g e r o f Ky o g o j o Engineering Services Cooperative (KESC), said LEGAL/PAGE 9

OFF TO KOREA. Volunteers continue loading trash from the Verde Soko compound in sitio Buguac, Sta. Cruz, Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental to be sent back to South Korea.

Bureau of Customs district collector John Simon is rallying the people to participate in the efforts so the remaining 5,177 tons of alleged recyclable plastics will be shipped back.

photo by mark francisco

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2

Local

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MONDAY|JANUARY 6, 2020

PRRD orders opening of Central Mindanao airport

M

LANG, North Cotabato – President Rodrigo R. Duterte has ordered the immediate completion of the mothballed Central Mindanao Airport here and asked Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go to source out funds for it.

During his visit on Dec. 30, 2019 here, where he turned over relief and financial aid to thousands of quake victims, the

President said the airport must be opened and utilized.

The President issued the remark after Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) chair, Secretary Emmanuel Piñol, and North Cotabato Governor Nancy Catamco sought his intervention for the immediate operation of the airport here to boost economic development in mainland Mindanao.

With this, the President verbally asked his former

assistant and now Senator Go to coordinate with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and source funds for the completion and operation of the airport.

In a statement on Thursday, Piñol said that he and Catamco had earlier briefed President Duterte on the actual status of the airport, also known as the M’lang airport.

The airport's construction started

in 2004 when Piñol was governor. The 1.8-kilometer runway and terminal building were completed in 2010.

Present when the President issued the instruction were Go, Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año, Department of Social Welfare and Development Sec. Rolando Joselito Bautista, National Housing Authority General Manager Marcelino Escalada Jr., M’lang Mayor Russel Abonado, Piñol, and Catamco.

The airport’s terminal building has been completed but the facility has not been operated because the provincial government of North

Cotabato has not turned over the 62-hectare property to the DOTr. The previous leadership, then under

the provincial governor and now Vice Governor Emmylou Mendoza, cited “missing documents” as AIRPORT/PAGE 11

New Year revelries 'peaceful' in NorMin

By ERCEL MAANDIG, PNA

THE Police Regional Office in Region 10 (PRO-10) has reported zero incident of firecracker-related injuries as well as indiscriminate firing during the New Year revelries.

This despite the seizure of illegal firecrackers and pyrotechnics by the

various police units around Northern Mindanao, PRO-10 said in a statement on Wednesday.

Brig. Gen. Rolando Anduyan, PRO-10 director, described the New Year celebration as "peaceful and injuryfree," thanking the public for cooperating with authorities.

Anduyan, however, noted that PRO-10 recorded two cases of "illegal discharge of firearms" in Camiguin and in Bukidnon provinces, resulting in the seizure of two caliber .45 pistols and ammunition.

PRO-10 said the two suspects were all drunk during the incidents, and appropriate charges have been filed against them.

As of 6 a.m. on Wednesday, PRO-10 said police in the region seized hundreds of illegal firecrackers in the Misamis Oriental towns of Opol, Villanueva, Manticao, and Magsaysay; in Misamis Occidental cities of Ozamiz and Tangub City; and in Bukidnon city of Valencia.

Anduyan said PRO10 deployed around 1,304 police officers on the field for general law enforcement and public safety duties. (PNA)

CorporateWorld 3 PAL reaps marks NEDA-ICC approves P49-B awards, key changes board, Davao airport modernization inmanagement Advertising and Editorial E-mail : businessweekmindanao@gmail.com Contact nos. : 0917-7121424 • 0947-8935776

MONDAY|JANUARY 6, 2020

T

HE National Economic and Development Authority-Investment Coordination Committee (NEDA-ICC) has recently approved the unsolicited proposal of Chelsea Logistics Holdings Corporation for the P48.9 billion modernization of the Davao International Airport.

The first phase of the operate-add-transfer project, slated to start this year, will boost the airport’s passenger traffic by 15.1 million passengers per annum. It will be completed by 2028, with a concession period of 30 years.

A modernized Davao International Airport, the primary gateway to Mindanao and the third largest airport in the country after the Mactan International Airport and the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, will bring in more trade and tourism, hastening the economic growth of the region, stressed Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Arthur Tugade.

The unsolicited proposal covers the reconfiguration and expansion of the terminal building, construction of parallel taxiway, improvement of airside and landside facilities, installation of modern airport IT systems, and all activities needed to improve airport services.

“This is a very positive development as

far as fast-tracking our infrastructure backlogs is concerned,” Secretary Vince Dizon, Presidential Adviser for Flagship Programs and Projects, noted. “This will also speed-up the realization of the transportation roadmap which the DOTr envisioned.”

After hurdling the NEDA-ICC, Chelsea Logistics Holdings Corp.

will now hold further discussions with the DOTr before seeking final approval from the NEDA Board chaired

by President Rodrigo Duterte.

Once the NEDA Board has approved the unsolicited proposal, it will still have to undergo a Swiss challenge to allow rival bidders to challenge the project’s original

proponent, Chelsea Logistics, which will then be given the right to match other offers.

The NEDA-ICC has also recently approved the unsolicited proposals for the MRT-4 project, the upgrade of the Laguindingan Airport, the EDSA Greenways Project and the Maritime Safety Enhancement Program (MSEP).

FLAG carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) harvested a new wave of international awards and a historic foreign airline investor in 2019, even as Asia’s oldest airline transitioned to a new management with a laser focus on regaining financial profitability while maintaining topquality customer service.

PAL took in its first AWARDS/PAGE 11

Export diversification, product innovations pushed THE country needs to diversify its exports and market destinations and introduce more product innovations in a bid to boost its export performance, according to a paper released by state think tank Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS).

In terms of the industrial exports, the research paper titled "Facilitating Structural Transformation through Product Space Analysis: The Case of Philippine Exports" said one shortrun diversification strategy is to focus on the

products that are not yet substantially produced but the country has revealed comparative advantage (RCA) in.

"The starting points of the first strategy are the existing exports already produced (although not substantially, accounting for less than 0.5 percent of the country's total exports) by the country and require less adjustments in the production structures," it said.

Potential markets for these goods include Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)

economies and Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) members, it added.

The paper said the agricultural sector can diversify into the production of goods with higher sophistication content as well.

In the short run, the country can focus on improving the production structure of agricultural goods which the country has RCA in, but are not yet substantially produced.

These include processed fish and seafood, industrial oil, cereals/pasta/bread,

animal/vegetable fats/oil, and extracts/dye.

The paper further said another short-run diversification strategy looks at products that are relatively close to the country's current production structure but the country has no RCA in.

Potential products include part/accessories of instruments/devices/ equipment, equipment/ devices/parts of electrical nature, minerals, parts/ accessories of motor vehicles, products related to plastics, among others.

It added potential

markets for these goods include OECD economies, ASEAN countries, Brazil, and Morocco.

Some OECD and ASEAN economies are markets for goods in the country's current export basket such as integrated circuits, static converters, and photosensitive/ photovoltaic/LED semiconductor devices, color television receivers/ monitors/projectors, and crude/ refined copra oil.

Further, the paper said it is imperative to promote an environment that encourages innovations as EXPORT/PAGE 11

4

Opinion

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SPEAKING OUT

IGNACIO BUNYE M o n s i g n o r To m a s T. Gonzalez, who served as our parish priest at San Roque de Alabang for nine years (1976-1985), had a charmed life. On countless occasions, he stared death in the face.

He had his first brush at age ten, when the Willy’s Jeep the whole Gonzalez family was riding in turned turtle several times while negotiating a steep road. The Gonzalez

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Greatest job Think a minute…The Greek philosopher Diogenes said that when a son does wrong or behaves badly, it’s the father who should be punished since he’s the one who failed to do his job.

Many men are successful in their public career and job, but failures in their most important job: being a father.

One of the richest men in the world was the German Friedrich Flick. When he died, his personal fortune was $1 ½ billion. That’s 1 thousand, 5 hundred million! He owned 300 different companies and was respected as one of the smartest businessmen in the world. He seemed to make all the right moves. Yet with all of his world-class success, wealth, and power, He could not control his own children. He could put big companies together, but he could not put his own family together. So after he died, his children fought for years over his money; and all the experts tried to clean up the big mess of broken pieces Flick left behind because of his failure as a

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THINK A MINUTE

family were en route to Ipo Dam in Norzagaray, Bulacan on an excursion trip.

The excursionists suffered fractures and various injuries.

Monsignor Tom was knocked unconscious and woke up with wounds in the forehead and chin.

In Nov e m b e r 1 9 8 9 , Monsignor Tom and a visiting priest were held hostage in San Roque de Blumentritt by a half-crazed contractor and his laborer. The hostage-takers bound the hands of the two priests and tied grenades around their necks. The two priests prepared themselves for the worst by saying the Holy Rosary invoking the Holy Mother “to pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death.” Their 7-hour ordeal ended when police negotiators were able to persuade the hostage takers

to surrender. Knowing the mental condition of the principal assailant, Monsignor Tom forgave him.

Just ten months later, while waiting for his new assignment to Papua New Guinea, Monsignor Tom almost died at sea. Monsignor Tom and several others had been invited by his brotherin- law to look at the latter’s fish and prawn cages off San Jose, Occidental Mindoro. On the return trip, giant waves overturned the speed boat they were riding in. For four and a half hours, Monsignor Tom held on to the capsized boat, hoping and praying that somebody would see them.

A passing coast guard boat did not see them because of the big waves. Their prayers were answered when the sea calmed down. From nowhere, an old fisherman paddled

KLAUS DORING Ever wondered why flight times seem to be getting longer? Yes, I do. Checking my last ticket Davao-ManilaDavao and remembering some real flight times from the past, I wonder why. I learned from BBCauthor Kathryn B. Creedy, that it’s called "padding", a phenomenon that helps airlines arrive on time – but at a cost.

My previous flight back to Davao from Manila one hour twenty minutes. My ticket showed a "flight-time" of exactly 2 hours. I guess, it’s a secret the airlines don’t

want you to know about, especially given the spillover effects for the environment.

Padding is the extra time airlines allow themselves to fly from A to B. Because these flights were consistently late, airlines have now baked delays experienced for decades into their schedules instead of improving operations.

It might seem innocuous enough to the passenger – after all, what it can mean is that even though you take off late, you’re pleasantly sur pr is e d to ar r ive on time at your destination.

Remember the final arrival announcement by the smiling stewardess last time?

Kathryn Creedy is right in saying that however, this global trend poses multiple problems: not only does your journey take longer but creating the illusion of punctuality means there’s no pressure on airlines to become more efficient, meaning congestion and carbon emissions will keep rising.

“On average, over 30% of all flights arrive more than 15 minutes late every day despite padding,” says Captain Michael Baiada, president of aviation consultancy ATH Group citing the US Department of Transportation’s Air Travel C onsumer Rep or t. The figure used to be 40% but padding – not operational improvements – boosted on-time arrival rates. “By padding, airlines are gaming the system to fool you.”

So, how late is late? The ultimate goal is ‘A0’, or arrival at the gate exactly on time.

If a flight is early or late, it can disrupt several other things – like gate availability and airport capacity.

To be fair, global airlines have invested billions of dollars in technologies to enable more efficient flight paths, according to industry body Airlines for America.

But this has not moved the needle on delays, which are stubbornly stuck at 30%.

A lot of different things

Recognizing the signs of human trafficking JHAN TIAFAU HURST father. So he actually died a poor man and failure at his most important job.

The famous army General, D oug l as MacAr t hur, is thought by many to be one of the greatest military leaders of all time. He led the Allied armies to victory over the Japanese in World War II. Later he was the leader of the United Nations forces in Korea.

Yet even though he was such a great success as a military leader, MacArthur did not think it was his most important job or success. In 1942 he said this in a public speech: “By profession, I am a soldier, and take great pride in that. But I am much JOB/PAGE 11

close to them and brought them to a nearby island.

In his new assignment in Papua New Guinea, as a missionary, Monsignor Tom suffered malaria 6 times. One missionary described having malaria as follows: “On the first day, you think you are going to die. On the second day, you wish you were dead.

On the third day, you wonder why you are still alive.”

St i l l i n Papu a Ne w Guinea, Monsignor Tom found himself literally caught between two warring tribes, who both belonged to his parish. Both sides came armed to the teeth with bone daggers, bush knives, iron chains and bows and arrows.

At one point, Monsignor Tom shielded the “offending party” from the latter’s attackers (“the offended MONSIGNOR/PAGE 11

Flight times getting longer?

JUN AYENSA

Motoring Editor

MONDAY|JANUARY 6, 2020

Monsignor Tom

BUSINESSWEEK MINDANAO CORPORATION Publisher DANTE M. SUDARIA President/CEO

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Are you or someone you know being trafficked? Is human trafficking happening in your community? Knowing the red flags and indicators of human trafficking is a key step in identifying more victims and helping them find the assistance they need.

C o m m o n Wo r k a n d Living Conditions: The Individual(s) in Question • Is not free to leave or come and go as he/she wishes • Is under 18 and is providing commercial sex acts • Is in the commercial sex industry and has a pimp/ manager • Is unpaid, paid very little, or paid only through tips • Works excessively long and/or unusual hours • Is not allowed breaks or suffers under unusual

restrictions at work • Owes a large debt and is unable to pay it off • Was recruited through false promises concerning the nature and conditions of his/her work • High security measures exist in the work and/or living locations (e.g. opaque windows, boarded up windows, bars on windows, barbed wire, security cameras, etc.)

Poor Mental Health or Abnormal Behaviour • Is fearful, anxious, depressed, submissive, tense, or nervous/paranoid • Exhibits unusually fearful or anxious behaviour after bringing up law enforcement • Avoids eye contact • Poor physical health • Lacks health care • Appears malnourished • Shows signs of physical

and/or sexual abuse, physical restraint, confinement, or torture Lack of Control • Has few or no personal possessions • Is not in control of his/ her own money, no financial records, or bank account • Is not in control of his/her own identification documents (ID or passport) • Is not allowed or able to speak for themselves (a third party may insist on being present and/or translating) Other • Claims of just visiting and inability to clarify where he/she is staying/address • Lack of knowledge of whereabouts and/or do not know what city he/she is in • Loss of sense of time • Has numerous inconsistencies in his/her story

can cause a delay but Baiada believes 80% of the factors involved – like schedule, airport arrival flow queueing, aircraft availability, gate availability, maintenance and crew legality – are within the airlines’ control. But to date they have left it to air traffic control to remedy once planes are in the air.

Another option could be to reduce the number of flights – but airline flight schedules are designed to meet buyer demand. So, if there were fewer flights, fares would increase.

Well, should we give up and telling ourselves: better late than never? So what does all this mean for passengers?

With airlines gaming the system, as it stands, flight times will likely increase as more and more planes take to the skies.

Fact is also that many airlines will try to make it tricky for passengers to get an eligible claim accepted.

The tactic of extending flight FLIGHT/PAGE 11

NUTS & BOLTS

JEROME DE LA FUENTE

This list is not exhaustive and represents only a selection of possible indicators. Also, the red flags in this list may not be present in all trafficking cases and are not cumulative. How toIdentify a Human Trafficking Victim Ordinary citizens can be trained to recognize the signs and what they can do to stop it, particularly at crowded SIGNS/PAGE 11

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MONDAY|JANUARY 6, 2020

5

Banking&Finance

Higher revenue, reforms to bring down poverty by 2022, says DOF exec HIGHER government revenues, easier conduct of business, more efficient tax administration, and healthier people will help bring down poverty incidence by 2022.

These characterize the results of some of the Department of Finance’s (DOF) programs under the Duterte administration so far this 2019.

“Despite the combined challenges of a re-enacted budget for 4.5 months and the global trade tensions, the Department of Finance and its attached agencies did very well this year,” DOF Assistant Secretary and Spokesperson

Antonio Lambino II told the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

The DOF executive said the agency fared well in working with lawmakers for, among others, the passage of additional sin taxes, heated tobacco products, and e-cigarettes for the Universal Health Care (UHC) program.

In the agency’s accomplishment report for this year, the DOF said state revenues, for one, continue to increase with the help of the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law, which was signed into law on

December 19, 2017.

Aside from increasing the take-home pay of employees who have an annual income of P250,000 and below, this measure provides funding for the government’s priority infrastructure program called Build, Build, Build program and the fuel marking program, which started in the second half of 2019 and is targeted to address oil smuggling.

Another first for the country is the excise tax on sugarsweetened beverages (SSBs), which is primarily a health measure aimed at curbing the

consumption of sugary drinks.

In the first half of this year, revenues from this measure amounted to P55.6 billion, or 65 percent up compared to the 2018 figure.

Gains from this particular measure have been noticed by other governments in the region and the DOF said Vietnam and Indonesia plan to follow its implementation.

Another achievement for the agency this year is the signing of another hike in tobacco excise tax last July through what is now known as Republic Act (RA) 11346, the second

increase so far under the current administration.

This measure will help finance the government’s Universal Health Care (UHC) program, which provides lowincome Filipino families access to quality and affordable health services.

Another plus for all Filipinos this year is the institution of the Rice Tarriffication Law (RTL), which liberalized rice importation – a bid started about 30 years ago.

After high domestic rice prices pushed inflation up to REFORMS/PAGE 10

Central banking in low inflation rate regime RISK brought about by the high inflation rate is already history as far as the Philippines is concerned this 2019, although lingering worries on the US-China trade remain an obstacle.

The elevated rate of price increases in 2018, which peaked at 6.7 percent in September and October, made Philippine monetary officials hike the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) key policy rates by a total of 175

basis points to help rein in inflationary expectations.

This decision complemented with the government’s fiscal measures and contributed to the deceleration of inflation rate to as low as 0.8 percent last October.

Last November, inflation started to normalize with a rate of 1.3 percent, bringing the 11-month average to 2.6 percent.

Monetary officials forecast inflation to

average at 2.4 percent this year and 2.9 percent next year and the next. All of these figures are within the government’s 2-4 percent target until 2021.

Aside from the policy rate reductions this year due to slower inflation rate, monetary officials also slashed banks’ reserve requirement ratio (RRR) by as much as 400 basis points for the big banks.

This is in line with the bid to make it at par with other countries in the

region.

The RRR cuts also increased efficiency of the domestic financial system as it lowers financial intermediation costly.

It also increases domestic liquidity and helps accelerate lending activities needed by the continued strengthening of the economy.

BSP Governor Benjamin Diokno, who took the helm starting March this year, said he will further bring the

central bank closer to the people.

During the Bankers Reception hosted by the BSP last July, the central bank chief said “a central bank cannot operate from an ivory tower”.

“It is important that BSP stakeholders understand what we are mandated to do.

It is crucial that our stakeholders trust our integrity and our capability to carry out our mandate,” he said.

The BSP has three pillars namely price stability, financial stability, and efficient payments and settlements system.

It ensures price stability through proper management of inflation rate and external debt, allowing an efficient delivery of credit to the banks, which in turn will extend financing to their clients.

Part of this is the move to provide effective INFLATION/PAGE 10

6

Environment

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MONDAY|JANUARY 6, 2020

(Right photo) DENR Assistant Secretary for Administration, Human Resources and Legislative Affairs Joan A. Lagunda moves ahead to take a closer look at Centennial Tree in Malasag Heights, Cugman, Cagayan de Oro City. With ASEC Lagunda are (from left) Misamis Oriental OIC, PENR Officer Ferdinand Dagulo (left) and OIC, Assistant Regional Director for Technical Services Aldrich S. Resma (center) and other personnel. (Left photo) ASEC Lagunda admires the Dao (Dracontomelon dao) Centennial tree. (Photo by Marlowe M. Paragas) TayoAngKalikasan RPAO PR No. 01-006-2020

Cimatu: DENR is more determined than ever to restore Manila Bay

REHABILITATING a heavily polluted water body is proving to be an extremely difficult task, but the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) under the leadership of Secretary Roy A. Cimatu is more determined than ever to win the so-called “Battle for Manila Bay.” Cimatu, who chairs the Manila Bay Task Force (MBTF), said that much has been achieved since the Manila Bay rehabilitation kicked off in January this year, but more needs to be done to achieve the ultimate goal of making it fit again for swimming and other forms of contact recreation.

“Our effort to restore Manila Bay is now in full swing and we hope to sustain the momentum of restoring it to its former glory in the coming years,” Cimatu said, noting that the Manila Bay rehabilitation will remain a top priority of the government until 2022.

According to Cimatu, the rehabilitation is currently in its first phase, which is the cleanup and water quality monitoring. The next two phases will be relocation and rehabilitation, and education, protection and sustainment.

As of September 26,

DENR: Rizal Park trash reflects Pinoys’ indifference to environment

the DENR’s Environmental Management Bureau and the Laguna Lake Development Authority inspected 9,708 commercial establishments around Manila Bay. Of this number, 2,478 were issued notices of violations and 107 were slapped with cease and desist orders.

Since the rehabilitation started in January, close to 70,000 volunteers from the National Capital Region, Central Luzon

and CALABARZON have collected over 2.3 million kilograms of wastes through cleanups, trash boats and garbage traps.

A total of 70 stations were monitored in the Manila Bay region—31 bathing beaches, 18 river mouths, 16 drainage outfalls and five rivers.

The MBTF has identified 44,125 informal settler families living within the Manila Bay region. While relocation

will still be carried out in the second phase of rehabilitation, 51 families—specifically situated along Estero de San Antonio de Abad— were already relocated to Tala, Caloocan City.

In line with this, 547 kilometers of easements have been delineated in NCR and Central Luzon.

To improve the ecosystem in the area, the DENR led the planting RESTORE/PAGE 11

THE Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has expressed dismay over the tons of garbage left behind by revelers at Rizal Park on Christmas Day, calling it a “reflection of Filipinos’ indifference towards the environment.”

“The mountain of garbage collected at Rizal Park after Christmas reflects not only the lack of discipline among Filipinos, but also our attitude of indifference to solid waste management issues and the environment in general,” DENR Undersecretary for Solid Waste Management and Local Government Units Concerns Benny Antiporda lamented.

The National Parks Development Committee reported that some 50 metric tons of trash had been collected at the Rizal Park between late afternoon of December 25 and morning of December 26.

This was despite the repeated reminders by the DENR, other government agencies, and environmental groups to keep public parks and

places clean during the holidays.

A few days before Christmas, Environment Chief Roy A. Cimatu even appealed to Filipinos to help lessen the impact of the holiday season on the environment by returning to the basics of solid waste management: reduce, reuse and recycle.

Appalled by the amount of garbage left by Rizal Park visitors, Antiporda strongly reminded the public to “observe proper waste management at all times.”

“Every park goer should feel personally responsible for packing out the trash he brings in and dispose it properly,” Antiporda said.

Antiporda also underscored the need for local government units (LGUs) to step up their implementation of Republic Act 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000, which prohibits littering, throwing and dumping of waste matter in public places and establishments, including parks, or causing REFLECTS/PAGE 11

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Catriona finds ways to reach greater heights

I

t's been months since Catriona Gray gloriously walked away with the Miss Universe title, but her road to success was very different from the other winners from the Philippines.

According to Catriona, she was aiming for the pageant's crown for reasons beyond mere personal ambition.

Rather, she wanted the Miss Universe title so she could use it as a platform to boost her advocacies and causes, to give back to the community.

Throughout her journey, she showed how different she was, starting with signing up as an independent candidate for Binibining Pilipinas. She also formed her own pageant team, handpicking her own designers, mentors and stylists.

Along the way, Catriona had her share of naysayers and haters.

She faced the grueling physical challenges of perfecting her walk and dealing with psychological pressure of carrying the hopes of over 100 million Filipinos during the

pageant. This is the reason why it was such sweet triumph when she finally won the Miss Universe 2018 title.

Many Filipinos, especially millennials, draw inspiration from

Catriona's story of never giving up and finding new ways to reach her ultimate goal of being a beauty queen. Like her, they strive hard and seek innovation to

Miss Kuyamis 2020 candidates Angelica Talo (Medina) and Jeramie Mingo (Naawan) look stunning in eye-catching Shandar footwear. Shandar is the creation of Cebubased visionary designer Mark Anthony Tenchavez who postulates that in order to look good, shoes must fit the wearer's personality. Shandar has been worn by celebrities and socialites alike from Tessa Prieto to most recently, Gazini Ganados.

Surprisingly affordable, Shandar nevertheless aces in both quality and aesthetics - each pair is exquisitely crafted yet elegantly simple. photo by gerry lee gorit

achieve their goals and aspirations. "Many felt so 'personally invested' in my journey because they saw themselves in me, as I put myself out there," Catriona shared.

"I wanted to share my journey, including the trials, the risk of joining the pageant, the motivation (which is my charity work), the people who helped me along the way, along with the failures, too," she continued.

In chasing her own dreams, whether for a modelling career or for furthering her advocacies, Catriona looked for people, teams and organizations that could help her do just that.

"I choose my partners very carefully.

For instance in the case of money matters, I chose to go with my most trusted bank, BDO. Their recent 'Find Your Way' campaign is deeply personal for me, and I am so honored that BDO saw my journey as a way of inspiring other people," she shared.

"I've had several financial conversations with BDO officers and I am so impressed

by their depth of knowledge and am using that to help me achieve my unique goals," Catriona said.

"My dreams will continue to evolve!

I would love to see myself pursuing music as a performer and recording artist with the goal of having my own songs and

doing benefit tours.

Also, I plan on pursuing business that has a community contribution," the beauty queen added.

"I want to be known as a purposeful queen – to represent a person that not only strives for success, but realizes the responsibility of helping others achieve it also."

8

Billboard Honda Unveils 600th 3S Shop in the Philippines

T

ARLAC City, Philippines; January 2020 – Honda Philippines, Inc. (HPI), the number one motorcycle manufacturer in the country, strengthened its presence again as it officially unveiled its 600th Honda 3S (Sales, Service & Spare Parts) Shop in the Philippines recently in San Sebastian, Tarlac City.

Honda Philippines’ 600th 3S shop provides motorists a onestop-shop featuring high quality Honda Motorcycle units with advance technologies, best ser vice facilities, well trained mechanics and genuine spare parts that will surely cater total consumer satisfaction.

The grand opening is led

by Mr. Susumu Mitsuishi-HPI’s President and Mr. Kensuke Masuda - Assistant Vice President together with valued dealer partner, Powercycle Inc. headed by Atty.

Juanita “Neng” Sy - President of Powercycle Inc. and Managing Director Nonoy Siycha.

Main highlights of the opening was the awarding of the 600th branch recognition plaque

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and turnover of wall maker. In addition, Honda’s 600th branch conduct fun games and activities such as raffles, test ride activities, and overflowing freebies. Discounts of Php600 for down payments, free helmet, and LTO registration, as well as various motorcycle peripherals.

“At Honda, we have always been committed to providing the best of what we can offer. Our 600th 3S shop is a testament to our continued commitment for excellence, as well as the loyalty entrusted to us by our Filipino customers. With this new shop, more motorists can now access Honda's best products and ser vices, close at hand,” said Mitsuishi.

The opening of the 600th 3S is in line with Honda’s ONE DREAM campaign, which aims to make Honda Motorcycles ser ve as tools in achieving one’s dream and, to unite all Filipinos through meaningful projects and activities.

To know more, please follow Honda Philippines, Inc.’s Facebook page and Instagram account at @hondaph_mc.

Ribbon cutting ceremony participated by HPI President Susumu Mitsuishi and Mr. Kensuke Masuda AVP together with Atty. Juanita “Neng” Sy , President and Mr. Nonoy Siycha, Managing Director of Powercycle Incorporated.

VIVA TO HOLD AUDITIONS IN CEBU Calling all talents in Cebu and nearby areas. Here is your chance to shine as bright as a Viva Star.

Viva Communications, Inc. will be holding auditions for Viva’s Search for a Star in Cebu on Saturday, January 11, 2020. The auditions will be held at the Viva Studios which is located at the 3rd Floor of The Space Building in AS Fortuna St. Barangay Banilad, Mandaue City.

The audition is open to all talents aged 7 years old to 30 years old. Viva is in search for aspiring actors, singers, bands, dancers, film and television directors and influencers.

Those interested can check out the ad on line at the Viva Communications, Inc. website and then fill out the application form and send it back to reserve a slot. Registration at the venue will start at 8:00 in the morning.

The auditions are being conducted by the Viva Artists Agency, Viva Films, Viva Records, Oomph! and Viva South.

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Water... from page 1

of PHP123 million.

The agreement seeks to expand the operations of KESC, which has been supplying water to some 2,300 households, mainly in the city's upland areas that have not been served by the main water supplier— the Cagayan de Oro Water District (COWD).

“This is to prove that the people, and not huge corporations, can own and operate their own water system,” said Isagani Daba, M C WS t r e a s u r e r a n d former chairman of the First Community Cooperative (Ficco), one of the MCWS member-cooperatives.

Under the deal, KESC will provide the technical expertise and capability of the cooperative-run water firm, under the umbrella of MCWS. MCWS is composed of Ficco, Oro Integrated Coop, Xavier University Community Cre dito C o op, DMPI Employees and Community Credit Coop, Allied Services Multipurpose Cooperative, Oro Savings and Sharing Coop, City Hall Employees Multipurpose Cooperative, Provincial Capitol Employees Multipurpose Cooperative, Cepalco Community Multipurpose Cooperative, MOGCHS Faculty, Retirees, Employees and Students Multipurpose Cooperative, and PPSC Regional Training School-10 Employees and Staff Multipurpose Cooperative.

Daba said the federation managed to generate from member-cooperatives the PHP132 million as start-up capital, and could raise more amount if needed.

“S o the JVA has all the necessary ingredients to upgrade and expand water distribution service – t e c h n i c a l s k i l l s an d experience, as well as financial resources,” the MCWS said in a statement.

MCWS said it is eyeing to expand its operation from the current KESC service areas into the upland villages of Dansolihon, Mambuaya, Bayanga, and Indahag.

“Our intention in this JVA

is to fast-track the expansion of water systems in areas not yet serviced by the [Cagayan de Oro Water District],” KESC president Neil Bryan Oraiz said.

Oraiz s aid a lt houg h KESC has the experience and expertise, “the MCWS has the financial capability to back up the investment since putting up a water system involves a lot of money.”

M C WS s a i d i t w a s compelled to establish a cooperative-run water system to enable "the general public, to own and manage this basic necessity."

It added: “What we are seeing now throughout the country is that water distribution is owned by taipans, if not cronies. So what the coops aim for is for the general public to own and manage public utilities, like water distribution. This can happen only through cooperatives.” (PNA)

Kuyamis...

from page 1 the commemoration of the founding anniversary of the province of Misamis Oriental.

Today's opening ceremony marks the opening of dozens of activities excluding the exhibits at the capitol grounds and nightly entertainment showcase.

Saclot said that aside from cash prizes a million worth of project will also be given to the winning municipality in the Festival Dance competition, one of the major highlights of Kuyamis. Some 21 towns and the component cities of Gingoog and El Salvador are expected to participate in the dance festival or, the Streetdancing tilt that is going to happen on January 8.

Aside from the Booth competition, which will be set up at the De Lara Park on the capitol grounds, other activities line up include the Culture and Arts Exhibit at Centrio Ayala Mall, Street dancing, and t he Miss Kuyamis 2020 Coronation Night at El Salvador City gym on January 9.

The first Explore MisOr Mindanao Overland Expedition will be conducted on January 10 where hundreds of riders and enthusiasts

signified the intention to join the event.

Sac lot said Kuyamis Festival was the brainchild of Bambi Emano. It begun in 2013 with only the Booth and Streetdancing competitions.

Tourism complex Meanwhile, Saclot announced that the facelift of a shrine in Claveria town where the ill-fated Cebu Pacific Flight 387 crashed will soon commence as soon as thr bidding process will be completed.

Saclot said the renovation of the shrine is in support of the intensified branding of Misamis Oriental as a tourism hub not only in Mindanao, but globally.

T h e are a w h e n f u l l developed will be equip with all the amenities where local farmers can sell their farm produce. " We w e l c o m e t h e partnership of the private sector in the improvement and development of Misamis O r i e nt a l , " s a i d S a c l o t apparently referring to the financial assistance extended by the Steag State Power, Inc.

Legal... from page 1

there is no reason for the local government of Lumbia to stop them from operating as the village’s water provider.

KESC, which started operating in 2010, currently provides potable water to about 2,300 water consumers in the villages of Lumbia, Taguanao, and Baikingon.

On Thurs day, KESC entered into a joint venture agreement (JVA) with the Mindanao Cooperatives Water Service Foundation (MCWS) allowing the two entities to further expand their s er vices to other highland barangays and neighboring towns.

Lasmarias said the issue stemmed from the alleged desire of Lumbia’s incumbent l o c a l of f i c i a l s , h e a d e d by chairman Alexander Torralba, to have a new firm take over the barangay’s water system.

“They (Lumbia barangay officials) want a new player to take control and manage the water system in Lumbia,” he told reporters during a press conference following

ONE SCHOOL, ONE SKY

By RITZY D. MUTIA, Ph.D.

L ast August 2019, the Philippines finally enacted the Philippine Space Bill w h i c h e s t ab l i s h e d it s own space agency, the Philippine Space Agency.

The body is said to lead the country in its space-related pursuits and astronomic developments. It also aims to make the Filipino people be literate in astronomy and acknowledge it as a field of interest and body of knowledge beneficial to the development plans of the country. With this come the demand for professionals in the said field to share their expertise, and the invitation for the present students to pursue space-related careers.

As an init i at ive to resonate and promulgate the aims and aspirations of the Philippine Space Agency, the Kibungsod National High S chool – S enior High School (Kibungsod NHS-SHS) launched its afterschool Astronomy Club during the opening program of Science and Math month last September 2019. The said event was welcomed and participated by students and teachers alike who share curiosity on the intricate workings of the overwhelming heavens and celestial bodies above.

The Kibungsod NHSSH S As t ron omy C lu b commits itself to equip its

student-members with basic theoretical foundations and practical skills of astronomy and space science, beneficial for them should they plan to pursue space-related careers in the future. The input given are patterned on the 11 Big Ideas handbook released by International Astronomical Union. Apart from lectures, incoming activities also include backyard astronomy, stargazing, and observation of phenomena using refracting telescope.

Indeed, afters cho ol astronomy clubs make the school community learn and appreciate the vastness and complexity of the one sky that is atop us all.

the JVA signing.

Lasmarias said the local officials allegedly resorted to harassing the KESC personnel and fencing the premises around the water provider’s wells.

He a ls o a l l e ge d t he barangay council started collecting payments from water consumers, which Lasmarias said is considered as illegal since KESC has not authorized the local government to collect on their behalf.

In return, KESC filed for a temporary restraining order before a local court to stop the barangay officials and their supporters from taking any further action against the company.

On Nov. 19, 2019, Judge Bonifacio Macabaya, the presiding judge of the Region Trial Court Branch 20, issued a writ of preliminary injunction to stop respondents from disrupting the day-to-day operations of KESC, including the receiving of payments from water consumers and other actions detrimental to the water provider.

Lasmarias said the Lumbia barangay council wanted to terminate the contract the previous local government unit administration signed with KESC. “They just cannot ter minate t he cont rac t since it will expire on 2028,” L asmarias said, adding that they have secured the necessary permits from the city government and the National Water Resources

Board.

He said both parties have reached the mediation level and KESC hopes the issues will be resolved.

“Let’s wait for the court to decide,” he added.

As of this posting, Lumbia officials could not be reached for comment.

But since 2019, residents

were said to be angry at KESC when it was planning to impose a PHP300 per 10 cubic meter increase of water consumpt ion, from its original PHP168 per cubic meter without public consultation and for providing poor services since it started nine years ago.

(PNA)

Republic of the Philippines Regional trial Court of Misamis Oriental 10th Judicial Region Branch – 20 Cagayan de Oro City IN THE MATTER OF THE PETITION FOR SPL. PROC.CASE.NO. CANCELATION OF THE CERTIFIATE OF RC-CDO-19-03846-SP LIVE BIRTH OF JOSHUA MIGUEL FUENTES-SIMON, JOSHUA MIGUEL FUENTES-SIMON Petitioner, X - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -/ ORDER This is petition for a cancellation of the certicate of live birth of live birth of Joshua Miguel Fuentes-Simon with the Civil Registrar of El Salvador, Misamis Oriental bearing Registry No 2001-467. Finding the petition to be in proper form and substance, the same is hereby set initial hearing in March 13, 2020 at 8:30 o’clock in the morning before this court at the Hall of Justice, Goldridge, Building, Masterson Avenue cor. P. N .Roa, Upper Carmen, Cagayan de Oro City.

The copy of this order be published once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation in the city of Cagayan de Oro City and Province of Misamis Oriental after a raffle to be conducted by the RTC-Office of the clerk of Court.

The Local Civil Registrar of El Salvador, Misamis oriental and the local civil registrar of Iligan City or any person having or claiming any interest under the entry whose correction is sought may within fifteen (15) days from notice of petition, or from the last date of publication of such notice, file his/her opposition thereto.

Furnish the Office of the solicitor General and Province Prosecutor of Misamis oriental copy of this order and petition for their information and guidance.

SO ORDERED. Done this 6th day December, 2019 at Cagayan de Oro City.

BONIFACIO M. MACABAYA Presiding Judge

BWM: January 6,13 & 20, 2020

Republic of the Philippines SUPREME COURT REGIONSL TRIAL COURT OF MISAMIS ORIENTAL 10th Judicial Region Cagayan De Oro City OFFICE OF THE PROVINCIAL SHERIFF NOTICE OF EXTRA-JUDICAIL SALE EJF-2019-827 Upon Extra Judicial Petition for sale under Act 3135 as amended by act no. 4118.

Filled by BANGKO SENTRAL NG PILIPINAS (“BSP”), duly organized under Republic Act Malate, Manila, against SPS. QUIRINO AND QUINTINA VERDADERO, both of legal age and with residence at kauswagan, Lagonglong, Misamis Oriental as Mortgagors, to satisfy the mortgage indebted which as October 31, 2019, amounts to NINE THOUSAND ONE HUNDRED TWENTY PESOS AND 08/100 ( P 9,120.08 ) Philippine currency, exclusive of penalty/liquidated damages and other charges, the undersigned sheriff will SELL at public Auction on February 17, 2020 at 10:00 o’clock in the morning or soon thereafter at the main entrance of RTC branch 41, 2nd floor, Goldridge Bldg., Mastersons Avenue cor. P.N Rosa Avenue, upper Carmen, Cagayan de Oro City, to the highest bidder for CASH and in Philippine Currency, the real property mortgaged together with all improvements thereon, to wit: DECLARATION OF REAL PROPERTY NO. 04609 A PARCEL OF LAND (Residential Lot no. 947-0-361, PIN. 09.06.01.074) situated in the Barrio of kauswagan, Municipality of Lagonglong, province of Misamis Oriental, island of Mindanao, bounded on x x x; Beginning at x x x; containing an area of THREE HUNDRED FORTY FIVE (345) SQUARE METERS more or less, including all improvements and machines existing and to be constructed/erected thereon.

Prospective buyers/bidders may investigate for themselves the title and tax Declaration herein-above described and encumbrances thereon if any there be.

All sealed bids must be submitted to the undersigned on the above-stated date, time and place.

In the event the public auction should not take place on the said date for whatever reason, the same will proceed on the following working day, without further notice, posting and publication.

Cagayan de Oro City, December 16, 2019.

FOR THE EX-OFFICIO PROVINCIAL SHERIFF

BY: ALDEN V. SAMBAAN

Sheriff IV BWM: January 6,13 & 20, 2020

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Reforms... from page 5

as much as 6.7 percent in 2018, this law boosted supply and addressed food-related inflation upticks.

The rate of price increases has decelerated to as low as 0.8 percent in October this year and has started to normalize after rising to 1.3 percent last November.

The DOF has reported that domestic rice prices declined by about P10 per kilo compared to the 2018 level.

While the higher importation has initially hurt domestic rice farmers, the government has assured the sector that at le ast PHP10 bi l lion annually will be allocated for the s ec tor throug h the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) to help lift palay harvest by way of low-interest loans, farm equipment, high-yield seeds, and skills training.

With the various tax measures and collection enhancement programs, the proportion of tax to gross domestic product (GPD) has improved to 14.7 percent last year from 14.2 percent in the previous year.

As of end-September this year, the tax-to-GDP ratio further rose to 15.7 percent, the highest first quarter to third-quarter level in 22 years.

Debt consolation has also resulted to drop in the debtto-GDP ratio to 41.9 percent in 2018 from a high of 74.4 percent in 2004 and this is seen to drop further on various fiscal measures.

These measures are seen to elevate the country’s credit rating not just simply to investment grade, which was first achieved in 2013, but to ‘A’ level.

This year, the country got its first-ever ‘BBB+” rating, the highest B-level rating from S&P Ratings.

The government is now preparing to graduate from the highest B-level investment grade rating to ‘A’ level through better fiscal discipline and a modern financial system.

Lambino said the government has also started targeting erring foreign workers like those involved in the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGO).

Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said POGO service providers in the country are subject to income tax and value-added tax (VAT) and their workers should be properly registered.

Lambino said all these measures are being done to support the administration’s goal to increase revenues to finance its infrastructure program and bring down poverty incidence to just 14 percent by 2022.

As of 2018, the country’s p ov e r t y i n c i d e n c e h a s declined to a low of 16.6 percent.

Lambino said the latest drop of poverty incidence in the country showed that about 5.9 million Filipinos have been lifted out of poverty, near the current government’s

target of 6 million by the end of its term in mid-2022.

“We need to stay on track towards achieving that ultimate goal and even surpassing it,” he added.

With these achievements, Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) chief economist Michael Ricafort gave the DOF a 90 percent rating for this year.

He explained that the Finance Department has “done a great job in helping expedite various tax/fiscal reform measures in recent years.”

He said the increase in excise taxes of alcohol and tobacco products will help boost recurring sources of tax revenues. “ Fu r t h e r s t r u c t u r a l improvements in the government's recurring tax revenue collections to help narrow the budget deficit and further improve the government's overall fiscal management/performance, thereby could support further upgrades on the country's credit ratings,” he said.

The economist is hopeful that lawmakers will okay the proposed bill that targets the gradual reduction of corporate income tax rates from 30 percent to 20 percent over 10 years.

This bill along with the proposed fiscal rationalization measure “would be needed in able to provide greater certainty on investment decisions by both local and foreign locators,” he said.

Ricafort said additional sin taxes can still be approved “as local sin taxes have yet to catch up with other ASEAN/Asian countries and increase funding for the government's Universal Healthcare Program.”

He is also optimistic about the eventual approval of the real property valuation reform bill, eyed to generate additional revenues for local government units (LGUs).

Gains from these measures will also help the government compensate private property owners whose lands will be affected by the government’s infrastructure projects “in able to somewhat reduce d e l ay s i n t h e ro l l out / implementation of various infrastructure projects,” he added. (PNA)

Inflation... from page 5

foreign exchange policies and public awareness campaigns on the role of the central bank.

On financial stability, BSP executives continue to conduct off-site surveillance and on-site examinations not just on banks but also BSP-supervised financial institutions (BSFIs), sustain approval of virtual currency (VC) exchanges, push for growth of the Personal Equity and Retirement Account (PERA) init iat ives and address issues involving financial services.

On the efficient payments and settlements system, the BSP further improved policies on electronic banking, block chain-based remittance platforms, and

4ID celebrates Rizal Day with LGU, stakeholders in Cagayan de Oro City THE 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division Philippine Army joins the whole nation in the commemoration of 123rd Rizal Day with the theme, “Jose Rizal: Huwaran ng Pilipino sa Ikadalawampu’t Isang Siglo."

Around 120 diamond troopers composed of honor guards, firing party, marching band, security elements, general and special staffs digital payments.

Diokno earlier said that digital payment is now among the normal mode of payments, thus, the need to enhance internet access and mobile phone ownership not just for social connections but also on safe and convenient financing services.

On top of these programs is the financial inclusion bid targeted to increase Filipinos’ inclusion in the formal banking system for them to experience the benefit of the expanding economy.

In summar i z i ng t he BSP’s achievements this year, Diokno said they will continue to push for reforms that would support the domestic economy since this remains among the strongest and resilient in the world to date.

These characteristics, he said, are backed by the low inflation rate, improvement on unemployment rate to historic low of 4.5 percent, the under-employment rate, and the poverty incidence to 16.6 percent in 2018, with the latter declining by about 2 percent annually in recent years, which, he noted, is unprecedented.

“So we’re very optimistic that maybe before the end of this administration’s term poverty incidence will be somewhere around 10 percent,” he said.

Aside from these factors, the central bank chief also said that the country’s gross international reserves (GIR) continue to remain high, which amounted to $6.4 billion as of end-November this year.

T h e c o u nt r y ’s t o t a l foreign currency reserves are equivalent to 7.5-month worth of imports of goods and services and payments of primary income. This is higher than the international standards of equivalent of 3-month worth of import

led by Colonel Noel Z Plaza, 4ID Assistant Division Commander for Reservist and Retirees Affairs, assembled in the Heroes Monument, Plaza Divisoria, this city as early as 5:00 a.m.

The activity started with the sounding of sirens followed by a formal program highlighting the raising of the Philippine flag with full military honors RIZAL/PAGE 11 and services.

“And I’m optimistic that 2020 will be even better,” he added.

Asked for his thoughts on how the BSP fared this year, Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) chief economist Michael Ricafort gave the central bank a rating of 90 percent.

“The BSP has done a great job in easing monetary policy, though there is still leeway for additional cut/s on policy rates to somewhat take away s ome of the monetary policy tightening/ rate hikes in 2018,” he told the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

The economist said the 75 basis points cut in the BSP’s key policy rates this year “still resulted to some reduction in borrowing costs/ financing costs by businesses, consumers, government, and ot her inst itut ions, fundamentally due to the easing trend in inflation to 3.5-year lows.”

He explained that these cuts were boosted by the RRR reductions “that effectively infused more than P450 billion in additional peso funds/liquidity into the banking system/financial system, thereby allowing banks increase their lending activities/business.”

He said the policy rate and RRR cuts allowed banks to post higher interest rate margins and increased their return on equity (ROE).

“Growth in banks' loan business would likely pick up/increase in the coming months in view of the lagged positive effects of monetary easing/lower RRR in terms of faster loan growth (could accelerate from among the slowest in 9 years), increased economic activities, faster growth in investments/ capital formation, and faster economic/GDP growth in the coming quarters,” he said.

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Job...

from page 4

prouder, to be a father. It is my hope in life, that when I am gone, my son will remember me not from my victories on the battlefield, but from my leadership and example in the home.”

In World War II, every morning General MacArthur read his Bible and prayed this prayer: “Lord, help me teach my son to be strong enough to know when he is weak. A son who will be honest and brave when he loses, but humble and kind when he wins. Help me build a son who is strong in hard times, and has compassion for those who fail. Help me build a son whose character is right, and whose standard is high. A son who masters himself, before he tries to master others. Lord, give h i m hu mi l it y and t r ue strength, and an open mind to learn wisdom. Then I, his father, will dare to say ‘I have not failed in life.’”

So dad, never forget: your child’s life will be determined by how hard you work…at being a father!

And the only One Who can give you the strength, wisdom, and love you need to succeed at your most important job is your own Father in heaven. So today, won’t you ask God to forgive you, and to take charge of your heart and character?

He will help you to start becoming the strong, loving and successful father your children need. Just Think a Minute…

Monsignor... from page 4

party”) by embracing him.

Monsignor Tom eventually was able broker an honorable settlement through the traditional way of “BaimSem”.

In this tribal custom, the offended party has the right to demand compensation, which consisted of pigs and chickens.

In all these life-threatening incidents, Monsignor Tom took comfort in Psalm 23:4.

“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; Your rod and your staff comfort me.”

On December 21, 2019, Monsignor Tom marked his Golden Anniversar y as a priest. A week later, he offered a Thanksgiving Mass at the San Roque de Alabang Parish which was graced by Luis Cardinal Tagle, contemporaries and friends in the priesthood, Fr. Rustico Cruz (current parish priest of San Roque de Alabang), Muntinlupa City Mayor Jaime R. Fresnedi, Barangay Alabang Chair Tintin Abas, this writer and representatives from the various parishes where Monsignor Tom served.

During his ministr y, he served in the following par ishes and missions: San Roque Parish (Tondo) Assistant (1970-74), San Isidro Parish (Pasay City) (1975) Assistant; San Roque de Alabang, Muntinlupa (1976-85) Parish Priest. While

in Alabang, he founded the San Roque Catholic School in 1981. Barangay Chair Tintin Abas is a distinguished alumna of San Roque Catholic School.

San Roque de Manila, B l u m e nt r i t t ( 1 9 8 5 - 8 9 ) Parish Priest; Archdiocesan Chaplain, Barangay Sang Birhen (1979-82); Archdiocesan Mission Director of Manila (1982-90).

He later joined the Mission Society of the Philippines (MSP). During his speech, Monsignor Tom corrected the impression that MSP stands for “Mga Sawi sa Pag-ibig”.

As a missionary, he served in Papua New Guinea (199094). He later became Head Chaplain to Filipino Migrant Workers in HongKong (19952005) and Parish Priest at St. Brigid Parish, Collie, Western Australia (2005-2011). He was later attached to San Isidro Parish (Pasay City) (2011-2017).

Monsig nor Tom has written the following books: 1. In The Shadow of Death (where he narrated the near death experiences mentioned above) 2. Pamumuhay Moral 3. Ang Mahal na Birhen 4.

Binhi ng Diyos and 5. PNG Mission Diaries.

Note: You may wish to share the foregoing via Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn.

Flight...

from page 4 times is yet another way to decrease a passenger’s chance of filing a claim and getting financially compensated for the hassle they have gone through.

Better late then never? I guess so. +++ Email: doringklaus@gmail. com or follow me in Facebook, Linkedin or Twitter or visit my www.germanexpatinthephilippines.blogspot.com or www. klausdoringsclassicalmusic. blogspot.com.

Signs... from page 4

events.

Possible situations to look for include: • A young girl who is with someone who is older, partying and/or romantically involved and that person seems to be in charge of where she goes, what she does and who she talks to.

• Someone who appears to be soliciting for prostitution (majority are sex trafficked, even though they may claim to be on their own.)

• T h o s e d re s s e d i n a provo cat ive way, are exceptionally flirty and repeatedly check in with someone else on a cell phone or in person.

• Someone who seems to have a bodyguard, or friends watching from a distance.

• Someone who is avoiding normal eye contact with others, unless soliciting • Someone who acts a bit skittish, fearful, or appears drugged or drunk • Many people coming and going from a single hotel room at all hours • Teens who are trying to appear as adults and carry

and present fake ID • Physical appearance shows signs of injuries, abuse or torture.

• Hotel housekeeping staff notices unusual amount of condoms, lubricants, etc. in hotel rooms.

What are the Most Important Red Flags to Look for?

There are several red flags people should look for and if present pay very close attention. You should pay heightened attention to people you see who: • are not free to leave or come and go as he/she wishes • are under 18 and are providing commercial sex acts • work long hours with no breaks or unusual restrictions • avoid eye contact and show signs of physical abuse or restraint, confinement or torture • are unable to clearly explain where they live • are fearful, anxious, depressed, submissive, or paranoid How Can We Help the Victims?

Victims that have been recovered are hoping that they can get the help needed to find a new, safe, happy life. Sex trafficking victims, particularly minors, have a tough road in front of them even under the best circumstances. They need trauma-based treatment, kindness, understanding, a stable and non-threatening environment and lots of time.

Professional counseling and medical or mental health services will help them to recover from the atrocities that have happened to them.

There are many professional organizations who provide support and help people in the throes of domestic minor sex trafficking, adult sex trafficking and labor trafficking. IN OUR BACKYARD can help with those referrals.

Anyone who suspects human trafficking should call local authorities.

Export... from page 3

a way of doing business, noting that innovations are correlated with the firm's productivity and employment growth.

"To facilitate product innovations, there is a need to ensure that process innovations are integrated into the various stages of good production. This will require increased servicification," it added. (Philexport)

Awards... from page 3

foreign airline partner in February 2019 – All Nippon Airways (ANA) – through its parent company ANA Holdings, prompting the election of an ANA representative (Mr. Ryuhei Maeda) to the PAL Board of Directors.

Other changes in the Board include the appointment of Vivienne K. Tan, the daughter of Chairman Lucio C. Tan, as director. Ms. Tan concurrently serves as PAL Executive Vice President/Treasurer,

representing the Tan family’s new leadership generation.

The family mourned the untimely passing of namesake Lucio “Bong” Tan Jr., who had been appointed head of parent company PAL Holdings.

Bu s i n e ss pro c e ss i ng outsourcing (BPO) expert Gilbert Santa Maria was anointe d as PAL’s ne w president in July, following the retirement of long-time head Jaime J. Bautista. Mr. Santa Maria is currently leading a digital transformation initiative to ensure that the airline’s needs are met by the most ideal technology solutions.

After re-certifying the airline’s 4-Star rating earlier in the year, ratings giant Skytrax announced that PAL won top honors as the World’s Most Improved Airline of 2019 based on a global survey of more than a million passengers. The US-based Airline Passenger Experience (APEX) association also rated PAL a 4-Star Major Airline for 2020, based likewise on customer votes.

In September 2019, PAL Express was included in the list of Asia’s Top 100 Best Employers – for its employee engagement efforts, while PAL’s stirring 2018 Christmas video “Regalo” bested eight other finalists to win two awards at the YouTube Ads Awards Philippines.

PAL was also cited as a “Talent Accelerator” for its trend-setting virtual reality (VR) training for cabin crew at the 3rd Annual IDC Digital Transformation Awards.

New aircraft were delivered in 2019: The last two Airbus A350-900s (dubbed Love Bus) – completing the long-range fleet – and a new 195-seat variant of the A321neo.

With a fleet of 97 aircraft, PAL was able to open regular flights to the capitals of Cambodia and Vietnam – five times a week to Phnom Penh and four times a week to Hanoi – as well as new domestic routes: CebuZamboanga, Cebu-Dipolog and Zamboanga-Tawi- Tawi.

Among t he pro du c t and service enhancements launched in 2019 was an upgraded Premium Economy experience available on A350 and selected A330 aircraft – so passengers can choose to sit in an intermediate private cabin between regular Economy and Business Class.

PAL also introduced a new automated passenger service system – Altea Suite

by Amadeus – to enhance the process of booking, buying tickets, checking-in and boarding flights.

PAL will be 79 years old in March 2020.

the airport is vital because it is located in a strategic area and will boost the economic growth of the Soccsksargen region where many agricultural products, including highly-perishable fruits, come from.

"I will talk to DOTr Secretary Art Tugade and I will help look for additional funding for the completion of the airport," Piñol quoted the senator as saying.

Piñol said the senator also vowed to seek his colleagues’ support to fast-track the completion and operation of the M’lang airport before 2022. (PNA)

Restore... from page 6

of native and fruit-bearing tree seedlings and mangrove propagules.

The agency also intensified its information and education campaign (IEC) on the importance of rehabilitating Manila Bay by conducting over 120 seminars, trainings, and activities participated in by more than 8,100 individuals.

The DENR also came out with 3,574 printed materials, such as on the ongoing rehabilitation, as well as nine information campaigns and 43 updates posted on various social media platforms.

Cimatu said the interventions related to IEC will further increase as the rehabilitation progresses.

“We hope that communities will imbibe the knowledge that was handed to them in ensuring the cleanliness in areas they live in,” he said.

The DENR also reactivated its coordination with 12 other government agencies covered by the 2008 Supreme Court continuing mandamus for the cleanup, rehabilitation and preservation of Manila Bay.

Reflects... from page 6

or permitting the same.

“If ne ce ss ar y, LGUs should not hesitate penalizing litterbugs by imposing fines or making them render c o m m u n i t y s e r v i c e ,” Antiporda said.

Ant ip ord a a ls o s aid the DENR would never get tired of reminding the public that taking care of the environment is not the

sole responsibility of the government.

“Even if we have garbage collectors, street sweepers, volunteers and other stakeholders helping us, all our efforts for the environment will come to naught if the mindset of Filipinos is, there is always someone who will clean up after them,” he pointed out.

A nt i p o r d a s a i d t h e country’s perennial garbage problem w i l l ne ver b e resolved “if Filipinos do not do their share by simply minding their own trash and practice proper solid waste management everywhere they go.”

Rizal... from page 10

and mass wreath-laying participated by various agencies and sectors headed by City Mayor Oscar S. Moreno and Colonel Plaza as the military host.

In his message, Mayor Moreno reminded everyone of the sacrifices of Dr. Jose Rizal and that freedom is earned. “Let the memories of our heroes inspired us to do our task and fulfill our mandate to deliver a better community, a better Mindanao. Let us continue our teamwork, unity despite the diversity and to strive more for the next generation,: he said.

MGen Franco Nemesio Gacal, 4ID Commander said, “On the commemoration of 123rd Rizal Day celebration, let us be reminded of the courage, commitment, and patriotism of Dr. Jose Rizal who fought for our freedom through peaceful means."

Let this be a fitting reminder to everyone to preserve our freedom against CPP-NPA Terrorist (CNTs) and other unscrupulous organizations that wants to destroy democracy and deterrent to peaceful and develop communities. I urge everyone to do your share for us to attain lasting peace and sustainable development in Regions 10 and Caraga," Gacal further said.

The Rizal Day is celebrated every December 30 as the anniversary of Rizal's 1896 execution at Bagumbayan, at present the Rizal Park in Manila.

It is declared a national holiday in commemorating the life and works of Dr. Jose Rizal as the national hero of our country.

(4ID, PA)

ALLAN'S LECHON

Airport... from page 2

the reason behind their failure to turn over the project to the DOTr for completion and commissioning.

Catamco assured President Duterte that the provincial government will complete all the needed documents for the official turnover of the property to the DOTr. Go said the operation of

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MONDAY|JANUARY 6, 2020

USTP ALUMNI COMES HOME TO CELEBRAR! T HE institution may have changed names over the years but the fact remains - her dear alumni never forget to come home.

On December 27, 2019, the University of

Science & Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP) Cagayan de Oro Campus warmly opened its doors to the alumni from various batches for a night of merrymaking, reconnecting and paying

tributes to the feats of its former students.

The Dr. Ricardo Rotoras Hall of USTP became abuzz as the alumni flocked to the venue to mingle with their batch mates and

reminisce with fellows their journey while being part of the school. Close to 800 members of the USTP Alumni Federation attended the first grand homecoming aptly coined, “Celebrar!”

Hosted by Jane Abaday and Ezel Lambatan, the event rounded up musical numbers, dances, raffle, fellowship, endless photo sessions and games that filled the festive evening and capped the daylong affair and truly captured the event’s theme, “Reconnecting Lives: Celebrating Alumni Stories” Hailed as the Largest Participating Batches were Class of 1994 and Class of 1988 while the title of the Oldest Participating Batch for this year was awarded to Class of 1961.

University officials were present to grace the affair and formally welcomed the participants.

Newly elected university system president, Dr. Ambrosio Cultura II and the university chancellor, Atty. Dionel Albina. Also present were the dynamic team of the 2019 USTP Alumni Federation headed by its president, Jason Jay Dalman.

Earlier in the day, the homecoming reunion started with a General Assembly at the USTP Performing Arts Theater where the current federation board of officers laid to the membership the accomplishments, plans, and current status of the organization. Alumni

members were also given the chance to reconnect with former classmates and friends.

The Alumni Federation General Elections were also conducted during the one-day celebration. The call to serve the USTP Alumni community was passed on to the following new members of the Board: Erah Delos Reyes Prof. Romeo De Asis Rev. Fr. Max V. Ceballos, SSJV Joshua Jones Waban Lea May Caburatan Josel Lim Nicole Adelle Tacandong Ruel Baron Esther Joy De Asis Melanie Ordeniza Jason Jay Dalman A Blood Letting activity in partnership with the Philippine Red Cross also took place. This is part of the Alumni Federation’s commitment to serve the community and help in nation building.

Participating alumni and current students took part in the said project.

It is hoped that in the coming year, a grander, more festive, and even bigger grand reunion will take place as USTP moves forward into a new era of excellence and unparalleled feats.