BusinessWeek Mindanao (June 22, 2020)

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Volume XI, No. 7

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Rice prices up THE average farmgate price of palay or unmilled rice rose 0.5% week-on-week to P19.15 per kilogram in the third week of May, with prices increasing 5.3% year-on-year, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). In its weekly update on palay, rice and corn prices, the PSA said the wholesale price of well-milled rice (WMR) rose 0.5% to P39.43 per kilogram while the retail price rose 0.3% to P42.50. The wholesale price of regular milled rice (RMR) rose 0.3% to P35.83 while the retail price rose 0.2% to P38.25.

Asian Summit PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte will join his fellow Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) leaders in a virtual conference hosted by Vietnam on June 26, Malacañang confirmed on Thursday. “Kinu-kumpirma ko po na dadalo po [si President Duterte] dahil ito po ay online meeting ng Asean (I am confirming that President Duterte will be joining the online Asean meeting),” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a virtual presser aired on state-run PTV-4. Asean leaders were supposed to hold their 36th annual summit in April this year but the meeting was postponed due to the global threat posed by the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

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IN-DEPTH

Monday|June 22, 2020

P15.00

Mindanao airports start commercial operations A Thank you for trusting us!

By MARK FRANCISCO, Reporter

T least seven domestic airports in Mindanao have already begun their commercial operations subject to the rules and guidelines from the respective Local Government Units (LGUs) where they are operating. Among them are domestic airports in Languindingan, Dipolog, Pagadian, Cotabato,

Zamboanga and General Santos. AIRPORTS/PAGE 10

Agusan Sur frontliners relax with aromatic steam bath By CHRIS V. PANGANIBAN, MindaNews

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur -- Frontliners and health workers in the province have been pampered with the stress-relieving hot

steam bath chambers at the Provincial COVID-19 Task Force Emergency Operation Center and at the Provincial RELAX/PAGE 8

LIFE GOES ON. A worker makes charcoal out of branches of trees by the roadside in Barangay Magtuod, Davao City amid the threat of COVID-19 as the city, considered the epicenter of coronavirus in Mindanao, is trying to recover economically even as it remains under general community quarantine. mindanews photo by gg bueno

Maranding irrigation rehab is completed MARANDING River Irrigation System is located in Lanao del Norte, constructed by the National Irrigation Administration in 1974 and was fully operational in 1981 with an original service area of 4900 hectares. Later, during operation phase, was extended with 354 hectares to make the updated service area of 5,254 hectares and firmed-up at 5,061 hectares. There are a total of 3,863 farmer beneficiaries comprised of six (6) Irrigators Associations and federated in October, 1999 , thus becoming the Federation of Irrigators of Maranding River Irrigation System (FIMARIS). Ever since it became operational, there IRRIGATION/PAGE 11

Oca warns labs, firms running 'uncoordinated' Covid-19 tests CAGAYAN de Oro City Mayor Oscar Moreno on Friday warned private clinics conducting rapid diagnostic tests, especially to persons returning to their workplaces. Moreno warned violators they will face legal action if they continue to conduct coronavirus tests without coordination with government health authorities. The warning came after the mayor said he found out Thursday that at least seven employees of a huge company were tested positive

for the virus using rapid testing equipment by a private laboratory. He said both the private laboratory and the company are liable for conducting the test without referring it first to the city health office (CHO). The city government has yet to divulge the identities of the entities in question. “I was disappointed since there was no consultation. They should have followed the protocol,” Moreno said during the daily press briefing TESTS/PAGE 10

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MONDAY|JUNE 22, 2020

DSWD provides aid to stranded students, returning individuals

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HE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office 10 has provided relief assistance to the stranded students, returning individuals, and some frontliners in Northern Mindanao region. Workers of DSWD Field Office 10, in coordination with the administrators of Mindanao

State University, Marawi City Campus and Task Force Bangon Marawi, provided 120 sacks of rice to 1,000 students who were stranded inside the state university's dormitory when community quarantine was implemented in March this year. In April, DSWD Field Office 10 provided food items such as sacks of rice, canned goods, and coffee to 408 students of

Mindanao State UniversityIligan Institute of Technology in Iligan City. DSWD Field Office 10 Regional Director Mari-Flor A. Dollaga said she sent teams to distribute the food items to stranded students after receiving information that hundreds of them are stranded inside the campus due to COVID-19 pandemic.

"We have not forgotten them. They needed our help at that time," said Director Dollaga. She added that during this crisis, DSWD will never neglect those who are in need. Meanwhile, DSWD has provided food items to returning individuals who are stranded within and outside of the region during the early implementation of community quarantine.

A total of 400 returning individuals were aided with food items in May while this month, the food items were delivered to different temporary holding areas for returning individuals throughout the region. Also, the agency provided food items to members of the Philippine Coast Guard who were on duty at that time in quarantine areas.

Online concert to benefit 4 LGBT groups in Mindanao A GROUP is organizing a live online concert as a fundraiser for four groups representing the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual,

Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual Plus (LGBTQIA+) communities in Mindanao. Mindanao Pride, a

group of gender equality advocates, allies, and human rights activists, convened LGBTQIA+ organizations in Mindanao

to collaborate and raise funds to ease the impact of Covid-19 on the LGBTQIA+ community. Dubbed “Mindanao Pride LIVE," the concert will be streamed from the Mindanao Pride Facebook Page on June 20, Saturday, at 8 p.m. The organization expects to raise a

minimum of PHP100,000, which will be equally distributed to the four partner beneficiaries: Kagay-an PLUS Inc. (Northern Mindanao), Ladlad Caraga Inc. (Caraga region), MujerLGBT Organization Inc. (Zamboanga Peninsula), and Olympus Society of Davao Inc.

Hamilcar Chanjueco Jr., Founder of Mindanao Pride, said Friday the concert is also part of the Pride Month 2020 celebration. “For us, Pride is also an opportunity to show solidarity to those who are heavily affected by Covid-19. Not even a pandemic can stop the community in celebrating Pride," he said. Chanjueco said the pandemic has caused a significant impact on the LGBTQIA+ community. In Mindanao, for instance, the group said many LGBTQIA+ individuals are at risk of homelessness and unemployment. Worse, a number of LGBTQIA+ members are suffering from deteriorating mental health because of isolation, it added. BENEFIT/PAGE 10

CAGAYAN DE ORO MAIN BRANCH P & J Lim Bldg., Tiano Brothers Kalambagohan Sts., Tel. # (08822) 727-829 * Telefax # (088) 856-1947 CAMIGUIN BRANCH B. Aranas St., Poblacion, Mambajao, Camiguin Tel. # (088) 387-0491 CORRALES BRANCH Corrales Ave., Cagayan de Oro City DIVISORIA BRANCH Atty. Erasmo B. Damasing Bldg., #61 Don A. Velez St., Cagayan de Oro City Tel. # (088) 857-3631 LAPASAN BRANCH Lapasan Hi-way, Cagayan de Oro City Tel. # (088) 231-6739 CARMEN BRANCH Vamenta Blvd., Cagayan de Oro City Tel. # (088) 231-2011

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MONDAY|JUNE 22, 2020

English Language as a tool for Global Competitiveness RITO J. GERALDE Teacher - I Jasaan National High School Jasaan, Misamis Oriental

The use of English language has brought a lot of individuals to greater heights. As a Universal language, it allows us to c om mu n i c ate w it h people around the world, connecting different cultures and uniting all races and colors. English language also transcended Filipinos to global arena. It allows our workers and professionals to succeed in their chosen careers abroad. In fact, many of them have been featured and recognized in several publications. This includes OFWs in field of business, entrepreneurship, motoring, hotel management, finance and many more. Moreover, the use of English language served as a tool allowing our leaders to participate in d e c i s i on - m a k i ng t h at affects the situation of the world. Our country is able to participate in international gatherings where benchmarking of s olut i ons i s b e i ng

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done — solutions that address major issues such as p over ty re duc t ion, sustenance of life and health, good governance and so much more. These are just few of the reasons why it is important that young Filipinos are taught with life skills such as the skill to communicate globally. Teaching English subject in schools and its corresponding communication courses should be strengthened and supported, especially w he n it c ome s to it s deliver y, the teaching tools used and methods of training. English as a l angu age shou ld b e learned efficiently, fluently and articulately for this would help them in raising their voice in a struggle for change, if there are, upl i f t i ng t h e i r r i g ht s and pushing for global development. Helping our students to be globally competitive would be possible if we equip them with effective tools, such as communication skills.

Industry revenue declines amid COVID pandemic

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HE gross revenue of the country’s key industries decreased in the firstquarter, reflecting the grim economic conditions due to coronavirus, data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) showed. The latest PSA data released yesterday showed that the gross revenue index declined by 4.9 percent in January to March this year, or reversal of the 8.3 percent growth registered in the same period last year. Among the industries,

mining and quarrying recorded the largest decline of 22.7 percent, followed by manufacturing’s -13.2 percent; transportation, storage and communication’s -4.6 percent; and other Services’ -3.4 percent. At end-March, total employment index also registered a decline of 1.7 percent year-on-year. Industries that contributed to the lower in employment were mining and quarrying, (-7.3 percent); manufacturing, (-3.7 percent); other services, (-3.4 percent);

construction (-2.8 percent); and finance (-0.2 percent). Other industries contributing to the decline were transportation, storage and communication with -5.8 percent; trade with -2.8 percent; manufacturing with -2.6 percent; and construction with -2.2 percent. Another contributor to lower employment was transportation, storage and communication (-0.04 percent). On the other hand, employment index in real estate; electricity, gas and water supply; and trade

grew by 8.0 percent, 3.4 percent and 2.2 percent, respectively. Likewise, total compensation index decreased by 1.3 percent in the first-quarter with finance as well as mining and quarrying had the biggest declines with both -8.5 percent. Other industries contributing to the decline were transportation, storage and communication with -5.8 percent; trade with 2.8 percent; manufacturing with 2.6 percent; and construction with -2.2 percent.

Ayala forms consortium to build coronavirus testing labs THE healthcare arm of Ayala Corp. (AC) is forming a consortium with five other companies to build coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) testing laboratories in various Qualimed hospitals across the country.

In a statement Friday, Ayala Healthcare Holdings, Inc. (AC Health) said it signed a memorandum of agreement with the Aboitiz Foundation, ABS-CBN Corp., Alfonso Yuchengco Foundation, Gokongwei Brothers Foundation and

Metrobank Foundation to build the biosafety modular laboratories. These facilities aim to add 5,500 to the country’s capacity for confirmatory COVID-19 tests per day. “Increasing the country’s confirmatory

testing capacity is not easy. We are grateful to have been able to form a consortium of friends from the private sector who are just as committed to battling this pandemic,” AC Health Chairman LABS/PAGE 10

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Opinion

The BusinessWeek Mindanao is published by BusinessWeek Mindanao Corporation every Monday to Friday with office address at Tanleh Building, Abellanosa, Cagayan de Oro City. It is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission under Company Registration No. CS201531633 with BIR Certificate of Registration No. 2RC0000831068, TIN No. 463-826-272-000 – VAT. Reg., and with Business Permit No. 2020-04015. Tel. Nos.: (088)856-3344, (088) 810-100, 0923-432-0687, 0917-7121424 Website: www.businessweekmindanao.com E-mail : businessweekmindanao@gmail.com

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Chance or choice Think a minute… There was a man who owned the only hair salon in his little town. He cut and styled the hair of almost everybody, so his small business was very successful. Then one day a big modern hair salon moved to town right across the street from his little shop. This new, big salon advertised in the newspapers and posted signs everywhere that read: “$6 haircuts! Everything for ONLY $6!” Soon almost all of his customers began going to the new salon across the street for $6 haircuts. He knew he could never afford to beat this big salon’s price of only $6. But then he thought of a way to turn things around and win his customers back. He put up a big sign in front of his hair salon which read: “We FIX $6 haircuts!” We all face challenges and tough times, but it is those of us who manage our difficulties positively and wisely who end up succeeding in life. It’s not luck that controls your life! It’s your own choices that make you and your family happy, successful and peaceful.

THINK A MINUTE

MONDAY|JUNE 22, 2020

The Third World War waged in peacetime We s a lut e t h e pre s e nt dispensation for the utmost measures being done to capture the spread of COVID-19 that has already killed some 1,000 Filipinos. Indeed, this government has acted like a good “Father of the Family” to protect the health of the people and save lives as mortality in our country is one of the lowest against the pandemic that had already killed almost half a million people world-wide. Previous administrations should have done the same precautionary measures when the onslaught of ecological disasters had wrought havoc to the lives of Filipinos. R e m e mb e r t h e O r m o c Typhoon in 1991 that had caused so much devastation that claimed more than 6,000 lives. Such was followed by series of typhoons that killed

tens of thousands of lives, i.e., Typhoon Sendong in 2011 hitting the cities of Cagayan de Oro and Iligan that claimed more than 3,000 lives and rendering some 11,000 families homeless and Typhoon Haiyan that had killed more than 10,000 Filipinos, among so many typhoons wrecking so much destruction to lives and properties. So much destruction h a d a l re a d y h app e n e d worldwide due to nature’s wrath as Mother Earth is now facing its 6th extinction due to climate change. At a time when a quarter of the world’s population is threatened with starvation due to the erosion of soil fertility, water and genetic diversity, chasing the mirage of unending growth and wrong development paradigm

by g lob a l cor p orat ions becomes a major source of genocide. Indeed, the people and the environment are being sacrificed to the altar of greed and profit by the world’s elites and oligarchs. Killing people through the destruction of nature is an invisible form of violence which threatens justice, peace and survival. Editor and author Claude Alvares calls this destruction the Third World War, “a war waged in peacetime, without comparison but involving the largest number of deaths and the largest number of soldiers without uniform.” Yes, we are now s o concerned to stop a pandemic but t h e s am e c on c e r n should have been given to the destruction of the environment. We in Cagayan de Oro City were shocked no

KIM'S DREAM

ORLAN R. RAVANERA end when some 3,000 people died and 11,000 families were rendered homeless on that fateful day of Dec. 17, 2011. Sendong left an indelible imprint, serving due notice to one and all that indeed there is no free meal in nature. The pains that we are inflicting on Mother Earth are now making all of us accountable, exacting a heavy toll through ecological WAGED/PAGE 11

Raising funds during the time of COVID-19 SPEAKING OUT

Cell No: 09352379999

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IGNACIO BUNYE Even during the time of COVID 19, BPI Capital Corporation, today’s leading investment bank in the Philippines, continues to ramp up its fund-raising for corporates as well as the government. Starting January 23 and all the way up to March 27, BPI Capital helped raise a total of P400 billion in Peso Bond and Corporate Notes, and US$ 1 billion in US Dollar Bond and US Dollar Hybrid Security. In these deals, BPI Capital acted either as Joint Lead Arranger and Sole Selling Agent, Joint

Lead Issue Manager, Lead Arranger and Bookrunner, Joint co-Arranger, Joint L e a d Un d e r w r it e r an d B o o k r u n n e r, o r J o i n t Domestic Manager. BPI Capital President Rhoda Huang announced that BPI Capital successfully arranged the following deals, In the order of issue date, all with overwhelming demand: Januar y 16 – Aboitiz Equity Venture – US$ 400 million USD Bond, 10Y Januar y 23 – Jollibee Foods Corporation – US$ 600 million US Dollar Hybrid Perpetual Security, NC5 January 24 – Bank of the Philippine Islands – P15.3 billion Peso Bond, 2Y February 11- Bureau of Treasury Retail Treasury Bonds – P310 billion, 3Y February 21 – Megawide Construction Corporation – P5 billion Corporate Note March 5 – Cebu Landmasters, Inc.- P8 billion Corporate Note, 5Y, 7Y, 10Y March 10 – San Miguel

Food and Beverage – P15 billion Peso Bond, 5Y, 7Y March 25 – SM Prime Holdings – P15 billion Peso Bond, 5Y, 7Y March 27 - Bank of the Philippine Islands -P33.89 billion Peso Bond, 1.5Y Meanwhile, we received the following breaking news. The Ayala-backed Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) is launching the country’s first COVID Action Response Bonds (CARE Bonds) to raise funds in support of local micro, small, and medium businesses (MSMEs) hit hard by the global pandemic. BPI President and CEO Cezar P. Consing said: “MSMEs account for a relatively small percentage of total bank borrowings but a very large percentage of total nationwide employment. Loans to MSMEs go a long way to keeping Filipinos working. To support MSMEs is to embrace the Bayanihan spirit.” The CARE Bonds qualify as “Social Bonds”

under the ASEAN Social Bonds Standards in the Philippines. BPI Capital is once again expected to play a lead role in this planned fund raise. Founded in Februar y 5, 1976, BPI Capital Corporation is a whollyowned subsidiary of the Bank of the Philippine Islands. It has maintained its leadership in the banking and finance industry, making it the most trusted financial partner, transaction advisor, credit sponsor, and financing or iginator to t he most respected names in business and major stakeholders in the Philippines. BPI Capital recently added the following trophies to its collection: 1).The Banker Deals of the Year 2020: C orporate B onds (Asia-Pacific) for AC Energy Philippines and 2) Global Business Outlook Awards 2020 Best Investment BankPhilippines. FUNDS/PAGE 11

The beauty of nature JHAN TIAFAU HURST Remember: “Things turn out best for people who make the best of the way things turn out.” No matter what happens these people keep going, because sooner or later “tough people win over tough times.” So “When the stormy sea is raging, it is no time to jump ship.” Difficult situations can actually make us a better, deeper person—just like the opposing wind makes the tree grow stronger, deeper roots. As one guy said after he went through a hard and painful time: “I learned lessons I didn’t know I needed to learn.” To his benefit, he chose to have a humble, teachable heart willing to learn those HURST/PAGE 11

In times with Covid-19, more and more f r iends of mine are enjoying to share beautiful places of Mindanao. Their posts on Facebook have been paired with the desire to going there if the coronavirus is gone. Then we might be free. We might be allowed to go wherever we want to go. Meanwhile, I shared the same desire and dreams with them too. If you talk about the beauty of nature, au t o m at i c a l l y c r e at i o n sings God's praise. Psalm 104 shows appreciation for every aspect of nature, even creatures like wild goats, lions, and others. The Israelites, as herders

and farmers, had no romantic idealization of the outdoors. Nobody who herds sheep thinks of them as soft and fluffy pets. But to the poet who wrote Psalm 104, creatures that are no "use" to anyone still have intrinsic worth - especially to God. T h e i nt e r t w i n i ng of n at u r e i s n o t , f o r t h e psalmist, like a complex machine, dangerously sensitive. Things fit together because a personal God watches over them. Every breath of life depends on His will. Modern people nowadays are often preoccupied with the fear of overcrowding a n d p o i s o n i n g n at u r e .

This might happen again i f w e a r e l e av i n g f r e e after the coronavirus lockdown has been lifted. The psalms show not such f e a r, f or ov e rc row d i n g and p ollution were not major problems in that preindustrial civilization. Yet interestingly enough, the psalm ends with a wish that God would clean up the earth. The beauty of the earth, made by God, calls out for purity - purity of the heart. If we will be "free" soon and able to discover our surroundings, we should ask ourselves, how does nature affect us. And, even more important: how do we affect nature?

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MONDAY|JUNE 22, 2020

OPINION:

An Island of Peace in Uptown One of the many attractions in Uptown CdO is a lush 80 ha “island of peace”. Ranked as the number one golf course in Visayas-Mindanao and designed by the renowned American golf course architect Robert “Bobby" Jones Jr. Pueblo de Oro Golf & Country Club is the ultimate safe haven for many enthusiastic golfers not only from Uptown or the city, but from all over the country and even beyond. Since Mike Gayoso took over as club operations manager the atmosphere has changed drastically for the better at the Club and among it's members. “It is a true blessing to be able to live and work here in Uptown serving the

players and making sure everything is properly organised at the Club. After the community lockdown we opened again beginning of June and operations have now started to normalise” added Mike. In fact he lives just a stone-throw away enjoying his condoliving lifestyle at his serviced apartment in Primavera Residences just besides SM-Mall, a development with all the amenities and convenience he can possibly desire. The 18 hole all-weather par-72 golf course has attracted not only locals but also many foreigners, especially Koreans, Australians and Americans, and many have strategically bought properties nearby,

either private homes or posh condominium units, to be able to enjoy a unique lifestyle centred by their favourite game. The Golf Club has also great facilities like a driving range, a practice putting green, tee houses, a pro shop, restaurant, bar, and showers and lockers for male and female. The VIPs of the city are all playing at the Club several times a week and it is therefore considered not only a place for sports and pleasure but also for important business talks. While the men often choose to swing the golf clubs, women hang out in the nearby mall or go dining in the many community restaurants around Uptown. There are also

great opportunities for trekking and biking with the kids which makes the whole area very family friendly. Mike further added “We had important national golf tournaments being played here at Pueblo like the 'Philippine Golf Tour' and the PAL Tournament but this year's biggest tournament 'Mindanao Meet', a tournament of all clubs in Mindanao, had to be postponed.” Cagayan de Oro is also called the “city of golden friendship” and you can truly see that spirit among its citizens. Welcoming everyone with an open heart is one of the main traits of this booming city in the South of the Philippines that is

LORENS ZILLER

Vice President of the Italian Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines

attracting investors from the region, from all over the country as well as from abroad. The City of Cagayan de Oro has drawn out a clear development plan to make it a Metro City within 2025 and more infrastructure developments are under way like for example the OpolCanitoan diversion road that will speed up the way to and from Laguindingan Airport for all Uptown residents.

The City is expanding considerably in the Uptown area with residential and commercial developments towards Lumbia and beyond. As the city grows and more people like foreign and Filipino retirees, OFWs and seafarers are deciding to settle in this vibrant place it is becoming clear that the best area to live and to invest in is definitely Uptown CdO. And if you are a golfer that's not even a question.

Protecting yourself from spreading COVID 19 By: CLAIRE R. SALIENTES

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Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcoholbased hand rub or wash them with soap and water. Why? Washing your hands with soap and water or using alcoholbased hand rub kills viruses that may be on your hands. Maintain at least 1 meter (3feet) distance between yourself and others. Why? When someone coughs, sneezes, or speaks they spray small liquid droplets from their nose or mouth which may contain virus. If you are too close, you can breathe in the droplets, including the COVID-19 virus if the person has the disease. Avoiding going to crowded places. Why? Where the people come together in crowds, you are more likely to come into close contact with someone that has COVID 19 and it is more difficult to maintain physical distance of 1 meter (3 feet). Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, Why? Hands touch many surfaces and can pick up viruses. Once contaminated, hands can transfer the virus to your eyes, nose or mouth. From there, the virus can enter your body and infect you. Make sure you, and the people around you, follow good respiratory hygiene. This means covering your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze. Then dispose of the used tissue immediately and wash your hands. Why? Droplets spread virus. By following good respiratory hygiene, you protect the people around you from viruses such as cold, flu and COVID 19. Stay home and self-isolate even with minor symptoms such as cough, headache, mild fever, until you recover. Have someone bring you supplies. If you need to leave your house, wear a mask to avoid infecting others. If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention, but call by telephone in advance if possible and follow the directions of your local health authority. Why? National and local authorities will have the most up to date information on the situation in your area. Calling in advance will allow your health care provider to quickly direct you to the right health facility. This will also protect you and help prevent spread of viruses and other infections. Keep up to date on the latest information from trusted sources, such WHO or your local and national health authorities. Why? Local and national authorities re best placed to advise on what people in your area should be doing to protect themselves.

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Monday|June 22, 2020

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MONDAY|JUNE 22, 2020

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8 Relax... from page 1

Learning Center (PLC) here. Gov. Santiago Cane Jr. initiated the setting up of the steam bath rooms as a step ahead to protect the protectors, referring to the frontliners manning the different checkpoints at the provincial boundaries, health workers at the D.O. Plaza Memorial Hospital (DOPMH) and staff at the task force’s operation center. Each chamber of the steam bath therapy facilities can accommodate at least eight persons. Cane said the initiative was inspired by the experience of Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año, who revealed that it was the traditional steam therapy that helped him recover from COVID-19. Año reportedly used traditional remedies like inhaling steam from boiling water and gargling with saline, although there is no evidence that steam therapy can kill the coronavirus or that saline can prevent respirator y diseases, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization. “With fingers crossed, we hope this can help,” the governor said. Stress reliever Front l i n e r s att e s t e d they felt much better and relieved of their stress after undergoing steam bath therapy several times. Loida Antonio, head of Camp Management Cluster of COVID-19 Provincial Task Force, said her body spasms and back and joint pains disappeared after her first 20-minute steam bath session on June 3 at the hostel of the PLC. Antonio was on her third day of quarantine at the PLC’s hostel after she and 15 others were exposed to the first two COVID-positive patients in an isolation facility. They spent 14 days, from May 31 to June 14, in the quarantine facility. Antonio, 50, said she was diagnosed with hypertension with 159/90 blood pressure upon entering the quarantine facility but it went down to 110/70 after her first steam bath. “I noticed the heavy sweating from the steam bath vapor had burned my fats since my pants started to loose(n) on my waist,” Antonio said in a phone interview. Three other frontliners who were however not part of the quarantine shared the same experience with Antonio. Charry Armodia, logistics support staff of the Logistics Cluster of the task force, said she was relieved from carpal tunnel syndrome or the numbness of the hands and arms, after undergoing a 25-mnute steam bath therapy.

Banking&Finance Developing Asia to grow 0.1% in 2020, says ADB

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“I feel so good and I am amazed,” Armodia said. The same body pain relief was experienced by Sunshine Mae Sarmiento, accounting in-charge at the logistic cluster and Cecilia Noja, security guard of the Provincial Correctional Security Management Office assigned at the entrance checkpoint of the provincial capitol. Innovative pneumatic boiler Cane’s younger sibling, Engineer Roderico Cane, offered his award-wining invention, an innovative p n e u m at i c b o i l e r t h at produces steam for the d i s i n f e c t a nt c h a m b e r s separately available for female and male frontliners and health workers. Roderico recommended the lacing of a lemon grass essential oil on the conical steam chimney of the steam rooms the aromatic smell of which, he said, will help relax the human body and remove all toxins. “ There’s no harmful effect of the lemon grass essential oil since this is a food supplement,” he said. The pneumatic boiler won first place in the Mindanao Inventors Conference and Exhibits in 2009. It uses rice hull as its fuel and can boil water in just two hours in contrast to the traditional LPG-fueled boiler which takes four to six hours of heating. B ut t h e s t e am b at h chambers at the Emergency O p e r at i on C e nt e r a n d DOPMH used LPG fuel since it could produce steam towards the chambers for only two minutes. Cost-effective fuel saver The rice hull-fueled pneumatic boiler has been used by Roderico’s Joy Tablesauce Company in Butuan City which mainly produces banana ketchup and food supplements such as lemongrass capsule and hydrosol. Roderico , a mechanical and industrial engineer, made the rice hull-powered pneumat ic b oi ler af ter realizing that the company spent P90,000 a month on LPG because of the long period of time needed to reach boiling temperature. With his invention, the company lowered its fuel cost by 90 percent while productivity increased by 30 percent. Burnt rice hulls can be also used as carbonated hulls which is a good soil conditioner to make vegetable plants grow healthier. A l r e a d y, R o d e r i c o’s machine was fabricated by a cooperative in Bohol pro du c i n g t h e f am ou s kalamay, a sticky sweet delicacy made of coconut milk, brown sugar, and ground glutinous rice. It can also be flavored with margarine, peanut butter, or vanilla. Kalamay can be eaten alone or can be used as a bread sandwich.

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EVELOPING Asia will grow barely in 2020 as containment measures to address the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic hamper economic activity and weaken external demand, according to a new set of forecasts from the Asian Development Bank (ADB). In a regular supplement to its annual flagship economic publication, the Asian Development Outlook (ADO) 2020 released in April, ADB forecasts growth of 0.1 percent for the region in 2020. This is down from the 2.2-percent forecast in April and would be the slowest growth for the region since 1961. Growth in 2021 is expected to rise to 6.2 percent, as forecast in April. Gross domestic product (GDP) levels in 2021 will remain below what had been envisioned and below pre-crisis trends. Excluding the newly industrialized economies of Hong Kong, China; the Republic of Korea; Singapore; and Taipei, China, developing Asia is forecast to grow 0.4 percent this year and 6.6 percent in 2021. “Economies in Asia and the Pacific will continue to feel the blow of the Covid-19 pandemic this year even as lockdowns are slowly eased and select economic activities restart in a ‘new normal’ scenario,” ADB chief economist

Yasuyuki Sawada said. “While we see a higher growth outlook for the region in 2021, this is mainly due to weak numbers this year, and this will not be a V-shaped recovery. Governments should undertake policy measures to reduce the negative impact of Covid-19 and ensure that no further waves of outbreaks occur.” Risks to the outlook remain on the downside. The Covid-19 pandemic may see multiple waves of outbreaks in the coming period and sovereign debt and financial crises cannot be ruled out. There is also the risk of renewed escalation in trade tensions between the United States and the People’s Republic of China (PRC). East Asia is forecast to grow 1.3 percent in 2020 --the only subregion to experience growth this year—while growth in 2021 will recover to 6.8 percent. Growth in the PRC is forecast at 1.8 percent this year and 7.4 percent in 2021, compared to the April estimates of 2.3 percent and 7.3 percent, respectively. Hit hard by Covid-19, South Asia is forecast to contract by 3.0 percent in 2020, compared to 4.1 percent growth predicted in April. Growth prospects for 2021 are revised down to 4.9 percent from 6.0 percent. India’s economy is forecast to contract by 4.0 percent in fiscal year (FY) 2020, ending on

31 March 2021, before growing 5.0 percent in FY 2021. Economic activity in Southeast Asia is expected to contract by 2.7 percent this year before growing by 5.2 percent in 2021. Contractions are forecast in key economies as containment measures affect domestic consumption and investment, including Indonesia (-1.0 percent), the Philippines (-3.8 percent), and Thailand (-6.5 percent). Vietnam is forecast to grow 4.1 percent in 2020. While that is 0.7 percentage points lower than ADB’s April estimates, it is the fastest growth expected in Southeast Asia. Central Asia's economic activity is expected to contract by 0.5 percent compared to the 2.8-percent growth forecast in April due to trade disruptions and low oil prices. Growth is forecast to recover to 4.2 percent in 2021. Restricted trade flows and declining tourism numbers have dampened economic outlook for the Pacific subregion. The subregional economy is forecast to contract by 4.3 percent in 2020 before rising to 1.6-percent growth in 2021. Inflation for developing Asia is forecast at 2.9 percent in 2020, down from a forecast of 3.2 percent in April, reflecting depressed demand and lower oil prices. In 2021, inflation is expected to ease to 2.4 percent. (PR)

SEC warns public anew vs. Bitcoin Revolution

THE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has warned anew against the Bitcoin Revolution, which presents itself as a cryptocurrency trading program purportedly endorsed by government officials, businessmen, and even celebrities. In an advisory dated June 16, the Commission urged the public to avoid or stop investing in schemes offered by the Bitcoin Revolution or any other entities engaged in digital asset trading and promising ridiculous rates of return with little or no risk. “The public must be mindful that cryptocurrencies are very volatile and the process of digital asset trading is highly speculative and involves a higher degree of risk and that the operations of such unregulated entities engaged in digital asset trading are completely unaccountable,” SEC said in a statement Wednesday. The SEC issued the warning after finding that the Bitcoin Revolution continues to solicit investments from the public using the domain “the-bitcoinrevolution. com” without the

necessary license. Under the scheme, investors could supposedly earn as much as $1,000 from a minimum investment of $250 within a day, a 300 percent return on investment per day, or a total of 9,000 percent per month. Bitcoin Revolution also claims that some of its traders managed to become millionaires in less than two months by simply investing in its scheme that purportedly offers a unique automated trading system or platform with a success rate of as high as 99 percent per transaction. The scheme involves the offering and sale of securities, in the form of investment contracts, because investors need not exert any effort other than to invest or place money in the Bitcoin Revolution in order to derive income, according to the SEC. As such, the investment contracts must have been duly registered with the Commission while Bitcoin Revolution and its agents must have secured the corresponding license to offer securities for sale to the public, as required under Republic Act No. 8799, or The Securities Regulation Code. Aside from the

missing registration and licenses, the quick and unrealistically high return promised by Bitcoin Revolution presents a red flag for a Ponzi scheme, an investment scam where investors are paid using funds contributed by the succeeding investors, the SEC added. The SEC has flagged the unauthorized activities of the Bitcoin Revolution before in an advisory dated March 30, 2020. Bitcoin Revolution remains unregistered with and unauthorized to solicit and accept investments or placements from the public nor to issue investment contracts and other forms of securities, it said. The group also continues to manage its digital exchange platform without the proper registration with the SEC, in violation of the prohibition on the use of unregistered exchange under The Securities Regulation Code. In addition, Bitcoin Revolution still does not appear in the list of entities registered with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas in accordance with BSP Circular No. 944, Series of 2017, which provides for WARNS/PAGE 11

Retooling people benefited UnionBank during ECQ: exec INVESTING on technology and upgrading employees’ skills provided Union Bank Philippines (UnionBank) the flexibility to continue to operate even with fewer number of people during the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ), its official said. In a virtual briefing Wednesday, UnionBank chief human resource officer Michelle Rubio said the advent of technology lessened the need for manpower. She, however, said they did not lose their people in the bid to digitalize the bank’s operations by conducting training to retool their staff. “There has been redeployment, yes, because jobs are changing but that does not mean we cannot teach people new skills in order for them to adapt to evolving times,” she added. Rubio said that aside from giving importance to the bank’s customers, it is also a must to also invest in their personnel. As a result, the bank was able to face the challenges of the community lockdown head on, she said. “(Our) people are UNIONBANK/PAGE 11

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Ayala, private sector partners boost country’s confirmatory testing capacity

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HE Ayala Group, led by Ayala Healthcare Holdings, Inc (AC Health), has partnered with the Aboitiz Foundation, ABS-CBN Corporation, Alfonso Yuchengco Foundation, Gokongwei Brothers Foundation, and Metrobank Foundation to build 4 Biosafety Level 2 modular laboratories in Qualimed hospitals across the country. The consortium was formed as part of the Ayala Group’s initiative to contribute an additional capacity of 5,500 confirmatory RT-PCR tests per day in support of the Department of Health’s and the Inter-agency Task Force’s Project T3 (Test, Trace, Treat). Project T3 aims to expand national testing capacity to 50,000 tests per day by end-June. “Increasing the country’s confirmatory testing capacity is not easy. We are grateful to have been able to form a consortium of friends from the private sector who are just as committed to battling this pandemic. The challenges we are all facing highlights the importance of private sector working in collaboration with the

government to ensure our country’s recovery,” said Fernando Zobel de Ayala, Chairman of the Board of AC Health. The Memorandum of Agreement between the different companies was accomplished on June 16, 2020. The donations will go towards the construction of facilities and the purchase of equipment for the new laboratories to be built under the Qualimed Health Network, led by its President and CEO, Dr. Edwin Mercado. The members of the consortium have addressed COVID-19 through various initiatives. The Aboitiz Group has so far contributed over P1.85 billion to COVID-19 response initiatives including monetary and in-kind (e.g. PPEs, food, and support equipment) donations. With its nationwide presence, Aboitiz has also been proactively assisting communities in Visayas and Mindanao through its various business units operating in the area. “The Aboitiz Foundation is looking forward to partnering with AC Health and other private sector partners for this initiative. Our country needs to

Fernando Zobel de Ayala, President and COO of Ayala Corporation, tours the new BSL-2 modular-type laboratory of Qualimed Sta. Rosa

ramp up its confirmatory testing capacity, especially for our vulnerable communities, and we will do all that we can to respond to that need,” Sabin M. Aboitiz, Aboitiz Group President and Chief Executive Officer said. For its part, ABS-CBN launched the “Ligtas

Pilipinas sa COVID-19” information campaign. The network and the ABS-CBN Foundation also launched “Pantawid ng Pag-ibig,” a fundraising campaign, which has provided food and basic necessities to over 750,000 families with the help of private companies

and local government units. “ABS-CBN will continue to serve the Filipino people and work with our partners to address the COVID-19 pandemic. Apart from our other initiatives, we hope this donation will reach critical areas that require much-needed

access to confirmatory testing,” Carlo L. Katigbak, President and CEO of ABS-CBN Corporation added. Meanwhile, the Alfonso Yuchengco Foundation (AYF) continues its financial and non-monetary aid for AYALA/PAGE 10

Women in Action: Coca-Cola Plant Managers heed the call of leadership throughout the COVID-19 pandemic The COVID-19 pandemic continues to test and strengthen our collective resilience—and it has also called upon countless individuals to respond to extraordinary circumstances. Filipinos like 42-year-old Joy Beleno, manager of one of Coca-Cola’s manufacturing plants in Davao del Sur,

have had to do so with a keen generosity of spirit—alongside facing challenging crossroads by readily heeding the call of leadership. With the institution of the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) in the country—which necessitated individuals to shelter at home, and set

in motion the suspension of public transport and the temporary closure of various enterprises, among other guidelines— Beleno resolved to remain at her post. She helped ensure that the Company could continue providing its products and services, in light of the company being counted as part of an

essential industry and as a valued contributor to the private sector’s emergency relief response. Alongside business operations, CocaCola made a Php150M commitment toward COVID-19 response; they immediately mobilized its resources to provide hydration support for

health workers, frontliners from government agencies and local government units, and especially to vulnerable communities. Rising to the challenge of an unprecedented crisis Mere months into her new position, a global crisis— one with massive health and socio-economic implications—would highlight Beleno’s innate leadership abilities, her foresight and vision, and her compassion for her colleagues. “Our plant has always adhered to strict global protocols for health and safety,” shares Beleno. “Even before the announcement of the ECQ, we had already implemented more rigorous sanitation measures to ensure the quality and high standards of our products, alongside additional guidelines to protect the welfare of our people. For instance, constant health monitoring, frequent sanitation of work areas, mandatory use of face masks, and the provision

of shuttle service for commuting employees.” Beleno adds, “We had to respond quickly and efficiently to the growing concerns over the threat of COVID-19, for the sake of our 300 personnel and their families.” She leads her colleagues as she fulfills another important role: being the sole provider for her family. “This has been a challenge for me, a balancing act,” Beleno says. “My family—my son and my mom—depend on me. My people in the plant depend on me.” Beleno assures, “I take as much care to protect myself from the threat of COVID-19 infection, I take all the necessary precautions. I make sure to lead by example in this area, too.” Leading by putting people first, always To date, within the Philippine bottling operations of CocaCola, six out of the 19 manufacturing plants are led by women ACTION/PAGE 10

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Action... from page 9

plant managers. They collectively have almost 2,000 employees under their supervision. The strength of their leadership has since been emphasized by their quick and decisive responses to the radical challenge of the pandemic. Another Coca-Cola plant manager in Davao City, Maria Ana Mauricio, says “We’ve been called on to be part of an essential industry providing essential needs. As members of management, we also want to contribute to job preser vation and business continuity. And our people are eager to work because they take pride in being industry frontliners producing needed products and helping communities, w h i l e supp or t i ng t he i r families.” Meanwhile, plant manager, Nancy Laurente of the Imus, Cavite m a nu f a c t u r i n g f a c i l it y has commended all other leaders in her team and in the whole organization, who have been offering strong and dependable support at a time when unity is even more crucial. That B eleno and her colleagues have thrived within the organization and the industry is testament to how the company empowers all of its associates. One of the ways growth is enabled is through training sessions, such as LEAP (Leadership Excellence & Accelerating Performance) and LIFT (Leveraging & Inspiring Female Talents). As the world comes together to create a new normal, Coca-Cola is only intent on further developing leaders by providing avenues and spaces for continued growth. “I am proud to be part of a company that cares for and believes in its employees” says Paz Pollentes, Iloilo plant manager. “I have had so many opportunities to personally grow and to do great work as we serve F i l ipi n o s c om mu n it i e s especially during times of need.” Paula Calayag, plant manager in Sta. Rosa plant, meanwhile, highlights the growth she has been able to accomplish: “I always strive to give the best version of myself in all the roles I’ve filled throughout my 12-years in the organization. Most especially now, at such a crucial time— our work supports small businesses and communities in need, our associates in our sites rely on us for continued guidance, and they rely on this job so they are able to provide for their families.” Zarahmie Trania, plant manager f rom Misamis Oriental, says, “The constant communication and sharing allowed me to understand my role as a leader and how to lead during a crisis. As plant managers, we have a huge responsibility—we have a manufacturing plant to run, we have thousands of associates who rely on

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our leadership, we have communities who need our products—but we are ready, and we will continue to serve.” C h a m p i o n i n g compassionate leadership in the new normal B e l e n o’s j o u r n e y t o becoming plant manager is a story marked by heart, perseverance, and the desire to make a difference. “I started my career in Coca-Cola and I’ve spent half of my life in the Company,” says Joy Beleno. “Because it’s an organization I’m proud to be part of, with a culture and environment I love working for. Though we’re all facing such a formidable challenge, the Company makes me feel that we’re doing so together and that I can rely on it. I’ve only been more empowered, more dedicated to fulfilling my responsibilities and carrying out the promise and value that the company brings to people—to my colleagues, to our customers, and consumers.” The women leaders within the Coca-Cola System in the Philippines have long been crucial to championing and fulfilling the organization’s goals and causes—from ser ving as essential industr y stakeholders, to wholly embodying the core principle of malasakit for fellow Filipinos. In an age that may well only further test the spirit of each and every one of us, we look to individuals like B el e no — w ho s e a c t i ons have keenly highlighted integrity, compassion, and perseverance—for reminders of humanity’s resilience, for inspiration, and for the hope that we’ll carry with us as we collectively forge a new normal.

Labs... from page 3

Fernando Zobel de Ayala said in the statement. D onat ions f rom t he partner companies will be used for the construction of the facilities and the purchasing of equipment for the new laboratories. Each laborator y will have one automated RNA (ribonucleic acid) extractor and two RT-PCR (reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction) machines, which can perform 1,000 RT-PCR tests a day. The facilities will be set up in Qualimed hospitals located in Sta. Rosa, Laguna; San Jose del Monte, Bulacan; Tanauan, Batangas; and Iloilo City, Iloilo. Prior to forming the consortium for the four new laboratories, AC Health has partnered with the Tropical Dis e as e Found at ion in Makati, the University of Cebu Hospital in Mandaue City and the Southern Philippines Medical Center in Davao to develop their respective laboratory facilities. AC Health said in a briefing in May it has set aside P300 million for COVID-19 relief efforts such as helping increase the country’s testing capacity and providing triaging facilities.

Benefit... from page 2

The group also said that people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) had serious challenges in accessing treatment, made even more difficult because of movement restrictions. "The Mujer-LGBT Organization Inc. has taken the initiative to conduct a relief operation in the midst of a pandemic as a response to our social responsibility in addressing the needs and concerns of the LGBT Community. As of writing, we were able to reach 500 recipients. We look forward to being able to be of help to those in need, especially those who are not able to receive help," said Alvin Toni Gee Fernandez, president of Mujer-LGBT Organization, Inc. Queen Pia Paolo, M i n d an a o Pr i d e L I V E Lead, said that organizing an online event is challenging, but added she accepted the responsibility because "every part of the job is new." "I eventually understood that what I am doing is not a job but advocacy, and one that is very close to my heart. And what it aims to achieve made me realize some things— that I am lucky enough to survive in a relatively comfortable situation and privileged enough to help people who are in need," she said. (PNA)

Airports... from page 1

According to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), the Davao International Airport, Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Clark International A i r p or t , Ma c t an - C e bu International Airport, and Puerto Princesa International Airport have also started accommodating international flights. However, while some airports are allowing commercial flights, these are still subject to different documentary and Local Government Unit (LGU) restrictions. The list is also subject to change daily, depending on coordination and conditions imposed by LGUs. Local airlines maintain they support the government in its effort to manage the public health situation, including the opening of airports. The airlines are coordinating with LGUs to iron out commercial flight schedules and hope to mount as many flights as possible for essential travelers, especially those who wish to fly back home to their provinces. They reiterate that flight schedules are fluid during this time as authorities implement necessary health measures. Affected guests are notified automatically via email and text.

Ayala... from page 9

frontliners and vulnerable communities. This includes contributions to the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation to support Project Ugnayan and financial support to the

Serosurveillance Campaign of the National Action Plan Against COVID-19. “The AY Foundation is one with the government and the private sector in addressing the gaps in our country’s response to the pandemic. We are strong advocates of testing and hope that this initiative will strengthen the government’s efforts to control the spread of COVID-19,” said Mrs. Helen Y. Dee, AY Foundation Chairperson. Similarly, the Gokongwei Brothers Foundation (GBF) created a P100 million COVID-19 relief fund dedicated to helping frontliners and government efforts to contain the virus. GBF has provided ventilators, COVID testing equipment, RT-PCR test kits, PPE sets, and food packs and vouchers to hospitals, LGUs, and other vulnerable sectors. “We at the Gokongwei Brothers Foundation continue to mobilize efforts for COVID-19. From our frontliner relief efforts to our contributions to Project Ugnayan, we believe that this partnership is a great addition to the work we are doing. Through this, we aim to support the government's request to help expand testing capacity in the country. We definitely see this as a priority,” Lisa Y. GokongweiCheng, General Manager of the Gokongwei Brothers Foundation emphasized. As for the Metrobank Foundation, this partnership is part of the P200 million pledge by Metrobank and GT Capital Holdings Group through MBFI and GT Foundation, to fund and support efforts for COVID-19 such as the purchase of PPEs for frontliners, production of RTPCR test kits, implementation of Rapid Testing in communities, distribution of meals, and construction and equipping of labs for testing. “This health crisis necessitates a collective response. The Metrobank Foundation remains an ally of the government, private sector, and Filipino communities in the ongoing fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. We hope that this partnership will contribute to arresting the spread of the virus through increased testing capacity,” Aniceto M. Sobrepeña, President of Metrobank Foundation, Inc added. The laboratories will be located in hospitals of the Qualimed Health Network in Sta. Rosa, Laguna, San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, Tanauan, Batangas, and Iloilo City, Iloilo. Each lab, equipped with 1 automated RNA extractor and 2 RT-PCR machines, will have the capacity to perform 1,000 RT-PCR tests/day. The innovative and efficient modular set-up, designed and built by Makati Development Corporation (MDC), will accelerate construction timelines for the laboratories. The laboratories are expected to be accredited and operational by July 2020. Previously, AC Health announced its partnership with the Tropical Disease Foundation in Makati, the University of Cebu Hospital in Mandaue City, Cebu, and the Southern Philippines Medical Center in Davao to upgrade their laboratory facilities for COVID-19 testing. ### AC Health Ayala Healthcare Holdings, Inc. (AC Health) is a

wholly-owned subsidiary of the Ayala Corporation, and serves as the portfolio company for healthcare businesses. Its vision is to build an ecosystem that links every patient to a seamless healthcare experience. Its portfolio includes Generika Drugstore, the pioneer in generic retail pharmacies, IE Medica and MedEthix, major pharmaceutical importer and distributor, FamilyDOC, the country’s largest primary care clinic network, and Healthway Medical, one of the most trusted brands of mall-based multispecialty and corporate clinics in the country. AC Health is also investing in health technology solutions, such as its HealthTech arm, Vigos Health Technologies, MedGrocer, a medicine benefits management company, AIDE, a home health care platform, Fibronostics, an algorithmbased health-risk assessment tool, and ObvioHealth, a digital clinic trials platform.

Tests... from page 1

on the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) on Friday. He said those who conducted the testing did not anticipate the result of the test. “It would have been good if the result turned out to be negative. There should not have been rapid testing if there is no consultation with the CHO,” the mayor said. Moreno said he already called the attention of the company’s corporate headquarters in Manila regarding the incident. “I told them it was grossly irresponsible for their people to be conducting the rapid testing on their own,” he said. Moreno said entities who initiate testing on their own, without coordinating with the CHO, will be penalized once the city council draws up an ordinance on it. Dr. Joselito Retuya, CHO resident epidemiologist, said they have already written privately-run testing laboratories advising them to inform the city health office whenever they conduct rapid testing. “We urge them to tell us so we could also get ready in case

some tests come out positive,” he said. Although the six individuals have tested positive, Retuya said their results are not yet conclusive and they will still be subjected to the reverse transcriptionpolymerase chain reaction (RTPCR) testing being conducted by the Department of Health (DOH). He said the patients have already been brought to the city isolation unit after their swab samples were taken. In the same press briefing, Dr. Lorraine Nery, city health officer, said they were not aware of the rapid testing involving private laboratories and only knew of it when it was reported by the barangay health emergency response teams (BHERTs). Citing DOH department order 2020-0258, Nery said only licensed medical doctors may request, administer, and interpret results of the rapid antibody-based test. “Other licensed health professionals may administer the rapid antibody tests, provided that they wear appropriate PPRs and they are supervised by a licensed medical doctor,” the order said. Nery said those engaged in the rapid testing must know how to handle once the result comes out. “This failure to comply with their responsibilities, it’s a violation of Republic Act 11332,” she added, referring to the law that imposes mandatory reporting of notifiable disease and health events of public health concern. Covid-19 cases update Meanwhile, Retuya announced that two returning overseas Filipinos (ROFs) and a locally stranded individual tested positive for Covid-19. He said that they are currently at the city patient care facility, and contact tracing was already conducted. "We would like to tell the public that these returning individuals have not yet returned to their houses in the city," he said. The ROFs arrived via Laguindingan Airport in Misamis Oriental, while the LSI arrived via shipping vessel at the pier of the city. The city currently has 10 active cases as of June 19, with 21 total cases since March. (PNA)

Creative subjects contribute to a well-rounded education By LIEZEL V. ANTONIO Teacher III Prenza Elementary School Prenza, Tangub City

WORKING in the arts helps learners to develop creative problem solving skills. Teaching through t h e a r t s c a n p r e s e nt difficult concept visually, making them more easy to understand. Art instruction helps children with the development of motor skills, language skills, social skills, decision making, risk taking and inventiveness. Visual art teaches learners a b o u t c o l o r, l a y o u t , perspective and balance – all techniques that are necessary in presentations (visual, digital) of academic work. Integrating art with other disciplines reaches students who may not otherwise be engaged in

classwork. Arts experiences boost critical thinking, teaching students to take the time to be more careful and thorough in how they observe the world. The arts provide challengers for learners at all levels. Art education connects students with their own culture as well as with the wider world. Young people who participate regularly in the arts are four times more likely to be recognized for academic achievement, to participate in a math and science fair or to win an award for writing an essay or poem than children who do not participate. That is why arts integration is so important.

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Warns... from page 8

the guidelines for virtual currency exchanges. “Nevertheless, the Commission assures the public that it continuously monitors and oversees such entities and their activities in a way that it sees as proper in order to prevent the proliferation of scams and/ or any other unauthorized or illegal schemes in the country,” the SEC said. The SEC further warned all individuals and groups engaged in fraud of the strict penalties awaiting them for violating the laws, rules, and regulations it enforces. Those who act as salesmen, brokers, dealers, or agents of fraudulent investment schemes, for instance, may face a maximum fine of P5 million or imprisonment of 21 years or both under The Securities Regulation Code. Those who invite or recruit others to join or invest in such ventures may likewise incur criminal liability or be sanctioned or penalized in accordance with the Supreme Court’s decision in the case of SEC vs. Oudine Santos (G.R. No. 195542, 19 March 2014). Moreover, Republic Act No. 11469, or the Bayanihan to Heal As One Act, penalizes those participating in cyber incidents that make use or take advantage of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) crisis to prey on the public through scams, phishing, fraudulent emails, or other similar acts with two-month imprisonment or a maximum fine of P1 million or both. (PR)

UnionBank... from page 8

prepared. (Our) people are productive and participating because of that, we didn’t have problem shifting because people are used to using our tools. Digital adoption is already there to begin with,” she said. Rubio said they were even able to create new products during the ECQ, which began for the whole of Luzon last March 17 and lasted until May 15 except for Metro Manila, which was extended until the end of May. In post-quarantine period, Rubio said what their people need to have is empathy to understand the current situation, a good communication skill to connect and relay their intentions, and to be collaborative to work as part of a team. (PNA)

Hurst... from page 4

lessons. Remember, the same heat that melts butter hardens clay. The difference is their response. How do you respond? How do you handle the heat of problems, pressures and pain in your life? No matter which way the ball bounces, it’s still your game— if you choose to stay in the game. Today, if you will ask Jesus to take full charge of your heart and life, He can

start working everything, including your difficulties and disappointments, together for your good and lasting happiness. Won’t you choose to start living His way every day? You’ve got nothing to lose and absolutely everything to gain! Just think a minute…

Waged... from page 4

disasters that are becoming harsher and harsher. We must now face the stark realities that we have lost our ecological security because we have failed to do our role as stewards of God’s creation. We know that even with a strong army, a country that has no ecological security is not secured at all. Yes, we are now very much vulnerable to ecological disasters and we fear for our dear lives every time Gaia (Mother Earth) manifests its ire. The horrible crimes we have committed against Her are unforgivable. Her “lungs” – the forest – are almost all gone. We are guilty of a massive massacre that have erased our megadiversity, the highest in the world which are endemic only in the Philippines. Her “veins” – the rivers are either polluted or have no water at all. (In fact 25 major rivers in the country are already biologically dead. Her “blood” – (the lakes, seas, watersheds) are heavily silted or polluted. How long shall we allow the death blows to our ecosystems by those who continue the massive exploitation of our resources with utter disregard for nature and for the welfare of the ecological people who are suffering the brunt of ecological destruction? Unfortunately, we have allowed foreign corporations to economically invade Mindanao, either to transform the areas left by the loggers into massive plantations or to be mined endlessly. This time, we have never learned! Today, the fury of nature is upon us now. Sendong has awakened us to the bitter reality that unless we heal Gaia back to life, we will all perish. Such awakening process was long in coming. The truth is, our ecological people have long been suffering in silence. A great injustice has been committed against them when our resources were exploited no end, causing their displacement, the loss of livelihood and even their very life. The time of reckoning has now come. We are now going against a pandemic that has claimed a thousand lives. We should be more concerned with the revenge of nature which had eliminated from the face of the earth tens of thousands of our countrymen directly through ecological disasters or indirectly through hunger and poverty. We must now save the environment and in so doing, save our ecological people f rom further demise. In so doing, we save not only them but our very own lives - all for the greater glory of God – the

Unseen Being, our Creator! In my reflection, I cannot help but surmise that the Unseen Being has allowed the looming of COVID-19 to awaken a humanity in deep slumber. The Homo Sapiens must now give highest respect to the sanctity of all life forms. In pursuance of humanity’s materialistic and consumerist lifestyle, millions of species have already been made extinct that have been there for billions of years even before the Homo Sapiens came into being. There was no empathy from the Homo Sapiens when these species were being made extinct. Perhaps the Almighty Creator wants the Homo Sapiens to feel what those species were feeling then before they became extinct – thus, the corona virus loomed. Let us therefore respect the sanctity of nature as all creation is the manifestation of the Creator. Stop man’s egoic mindset that has transformed man from having been created in God’s likeness and image into the image of Satan making the Homo Sapiens the most flawed species, the only species that killed more than 100 million of its own kind in the 20th century alone.

Funds... from page 4

Surprise visit from the “Three Kings” The Ayala North Exchange (ANE) branch of Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) received recently a moraleboosting surprise visit from BPI’s “Thee Kings” - Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala (JAZA), Chairman; Fernando Zobel de Ayala (FZA), Vice Chairman, and Cezar P. Consing (CPC), President and CEO, of BPI. The ANE branch has remained opened all throughout ECQ. The branch staff were star-struck and overwhelmed as the “Three Kings” just walked in to meet and greet, inquire about the staff’s health and the health security protocols in the branch. Relationship Manager Mara D. Arcilla recalls the visit: “June 9, 2020 became a memorable day for BPI ANE personnel. JAZA, FZA, CPC and some BPI senior officers paid a visit to the branch. "How are you?", these are JAZA's first words as he approached the branch personnel. Simple words yet they left a big impact for us. “JAZA and FZA signed a poster which says, " We salute our BPI modern-day heroes.", and we had our pictures taken with the bosses. Everyone was really excited and thrilled to have this kind of interaction with them. It was very casual and light and everyone was really in high spirit. “Their presence made us feel more secured during these uncertain times and we felt really important. “B-Because P-People are I-Important”. Disclosure: The writer sits in the boards of BPI and BPI Capital as an Independent Director. Note: You may wish to share this article via Facebook, Twitter or Linked-In.

Irrigation... from page 1

there was no turning back in the lives of the farmers reaping the fruits of irrigation with rice production as the major livelihood activity of the people in the locality. It has contributed much to the economic boom in the once sleepy towns of Lala, Kapatagan and its neighboring municipalities, which also enjoyed the benefits of the economic progress. Big business establishments have sprouted in the area and a shopping mall is now under construction at the province's capital town. The close coordination between the NIA Regional Office and LAMISCA IMO Management between the Provincial Government of Lanao del Norte led by Governor Imelda Q. Dimaporo, Vice Governor Maria Cristina N. Atay, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan and the Local Government Units of Kapatagan and Lala thru Mayors Barry Y. Baguio and Angel L. Yap, respectively, together with the Irrigators’ Associations led by its Federation President James Longcob has reached greater heights, boosted the morale of the farmers in producing more rice for food sufficiency thereby developing more viable and outstanding Irrigators’ Associations. However, the momentum was aborted last year when Typhoon Falcon brought flashfloods due to continuous heavy rains which hit the province of Lanao del Norte last July,2019 with the ground zero at Maranding RIS. The rampaging floodwaters overflowed the riverbanks, damaging standing crops and irrigation facilities particularly two (2) units of siphons which were severely damaged, coupled with heavy siltation in the main and lateral canals which cutoff the flow of irrigation water affecting 3600 hectares of the service area. The damage was not immediately felt by the farmers since it was already in the midst of the cropping season of that year and intermittent rains took care of their ricefields. An emergency meeting was called by the Provincial Government attended by the different stakeholders and they

came up with action plans for the immediate repair of the system. NIA presented the conceptual design by replacing the reinforced concrete barrel with steel pipes and provided protection works while the Sangguniang Panlalawigan forwarded a resolution to the National Irrigation Administration- Central Office for the release of funds from the Quick Response Funds (QRF) or funds from the General Appropriations Act. But pending the release of calamity funds, NIA realigned P24 million programmed for CY 2018 and 2019 prioritizing the repair of the two siphons and desilting activities. The repair was immediately started in time for the next cropping season but only one unit of siphon was completed to restore the area of 1700 hectares out of the 3600 hectares affected. Close supervision and meetings were conducted to assess the progress in the completion of the steel siphon. The LGU of Lala, thru Mayor Yap, augmented its equipment for the installation of the steel pipes and the Contractor committed repair works to be completed not later than April 15,2020 amidst the declared General Community Quarantine due COVID 19 Pandemic. The NIA-LGU-IA tie up was again proven to be the most effective in governance thru community development. The long wait is over. A successful test run was conducted and the remaining area of 1,900 hectares has been irrigated starting May 1,2020 which is the official water delivery schedule for the second cropping. Maranding RIS is now back to fully operation. Acknowledgement is given to the Provincial Government, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Municipal Government of Lala and Kapatagan, NIA Technical and Institutional Staff from the Regional Office and LAMISCA IMO together with the Lanao del Norte Satellite Office and Maranding RIS and the strong Irrigators Associations for a job well done under the leadership of Engr. Constancio G. Banaay, Jr., Regional Manager and Engr. Estelita S. Sumile, IMO Manager. (Paid Advertorial)

Trauma from lockdown By LIEZEL V. ANTONIO Teacher III Prenza Elementary School Prenza, Tangub City

THERE is no time for complacenc y and we cannot afford for the next generation to be scarred by the experience of this crisis. The lockdown is taking a huge toll on many families. Mental health problems, domestic violence and other forms of abuse are all on the rise and we know that children are often the victims of this from online grooming to exploitation by criminal gangs. Ye t r e f e r r a l s f o r children’s social care and child and adolescent mental health services are way down by as much as 50 percent in some areas. It is often teachers that spot these problems and take

action so it is only when schools return that the full extent of this hidden crisis will become apparent. All the evidence suggests t h at t h e d e m a n d f o r children’s services are about to skyrocket in the coming weeks. Yet, the systems and services to support children and families were struggling in normal times. The crisis must be a wake up call that we cannot go back to ignoring the needs of vulnerable children and slashing away at essential ser vices which protect them. Not only does this put children in harm’s way but it is a false economy which ends up costing more in the long run.

E X T R A J U D I C I A L SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE AMONG HEIRS WITH DEED OF ABSOLUTE SALE KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS: That the late CUSTODIO L. CURIADO JR. who died on June 7, 2014 at Medical Center- Cagayan de Oro City that the deceased at the time of his death left a parcel of land located at Cogon Cagayan de Oro City, covered by Transfer Certificate of Title No. 137-2014001340, declared under Tax Declaration No. g-274856 and which is more particularly described as follows; containing an area of One Hundred Sixty Eight (168) Square Meters More or Less, that said deceased died intestate, without will or testament and without any outstanding debts in favor of any person or entity; filed by the heirs of CUSTODIO L. CURIADO JR., per DOC #72; PAGE #15; BOOK #134; Series of 2020 under the Notarial Registry of ATTY. SATURNINO N. BAGONGA. BWM: June 15, 22 & 29, 2020

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF THE ESTATE OF SIMEON PAGTULON-AN WITH SPECIAL POWER OF ATTORNEY KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS: That the late SIMEON PAGTULON-AN who died on May 11, 1996 at Cagayan de Oro City, the deceased at the time of his death left a certain parcel of land with Transfer Certificate of Title No. T-39596 situated in the Barrio of Carmen, Cagayan de Oro City, Island of Mindanao, containing an area of TWO HUNDRED (200) square meters, more or less and has been the subject of an EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF THE ESTATE OF SIMEON PAGTULON-AN WITH SPECIAL POWER OF ATTORNEY, filed by the heirs of SIMEON PAGTULON-AN, per DOC #177; PAGE #36; BOOK #56; series of 2020, under the Notarial Registry of ATTY. MARISSE GAY G. LICO ABALDE. BWM: June 22, 29 & July 6, 2020

E X T R A J U D I C I A L SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE AMONG HEIRS WITH DEED OF ABSOLUTE SALE KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS: That the late AQUILINA D. PABILONA, died on January 4, 2014, ELSA D. PABILONA died on May 27, 2018, PURITA D. PABILONA died on July 29, 2018 and CLARITA D. PABILONA died on May 25, 2017, all single and without issue; while LILIA PABILONA RARAN died on February 4, 2011 and CIPRIANO D. PABILONA died on March 11, 1971, both in Cagayan de Oro City, respectively, without any last will or testament, all deceased left a parcel of land ORIGINAL CERTIFICATE OF TITLE NO. CARP2015000014 situated at Barrio of Carmen, City of Cagayan de Oro, Prov. Of Misamis Oriental, Island of Mindanao, containing an area of FIFTY TWO THOUSAND ONE HUNDRED EIGHTY SIX (52, 186) Square Meters, more or less, and has been the subject of an EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE AMONG HEIRS WITH DEED OF ABSOLUTE SALE, filed by the heirs of AQUILINA D. PABILONA, ELSA D. PABILONA, PURITA D. PABILONA, CLARITA D. PABILONA, LILIA PABILONA RARAN, CIPRIANO D. PABILONA, in favor of VEPCO GROUP DISTRIBUTION CORP, represented herein by its Chief Operating Officer, JOHN LESTER T. TAN, per DOC #329; PAGE #66; BOOK #47; series of 2019 under the Notarial Registry of ATTY. NOEL B. VEDAD. BWM: June 8, 15 & 22, 2020

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Lifestyle

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MONDAY|JUNE 22, 2020

Shining On:

Facing the New Normal with Hope and Panache

P

ROBABLY nothing has symbolized the coronavirus pandemic more than the ubiquitous face mask. It has become the prevalent symbol of both despair and hope: despair that things will never be the same from here on, and hope that even now without yet a proven cure or vaccine, wearing a face mask is one of the best things one can do to protect oneself from being infected. One of Cagayan de Oro’s leading couturiers and stylist has chosen to focus on the face mask’s message of hope by raising the face mask to a symbol of hope and determination. “Since we are in a new normal way of living, part of it is wearing face masks. We all know that masks are for protection and prevention, but for me your mask speaks of how you really feel towards our present situation. Many feel stress and depression. I've been thinking of how to alleviate such feelings,” said Shine J. Casiño, who finished a strong first runner up in the 3rd Habi Kadaywan fashion and design competition held in Davao City last year that showcases the ingenuity and global ready fashion designs of Mindanawnon designers. Since the initial lockdown following the outbreak of the local pandemic had virtually prevented him from pursuing his usual business, Shine decided to turn to designing and manufacturing face masks that would not merely serve as protection, but also as a fashion statement and symbol of the wearer’s resilience. “Fashion is not a privilege. It’s a more of a therapy in this time,” he opined. “The mask that you wear will serve both as your fashion and your therapy, and I want to be the one to provide you with both.” Recently branded with the trade name ILLUMINA, Shine’s face

masks are executed a variety of colors and designs, and usually made from neoprene though customers can also choose from a variety of other materials. The one of a kind masks are appliquéd with laces and crystals symbolizing life and hope. Silk ribbons and satin are also planned for his coming line of men’s face masks. “I hope my face masks would help spread positivity, that despite the pandemic we're facing, there remains and always be hope,” Shine said of the philosophy ingrained in his ILLUMINA face masks. “I am full of hope that I can also help add life to those who feel hopeless and I always see to it that my creations are affordable without risking quality. More than that, they should be wearable, comfortable and can be of used by people from all walks of life.” Shine used the brand name ILLUMINA since it connotes giving light to or to illuminate. As a proprietary name, it also best illustrates the qualities I want to highlight in my face masks: quality that is immediately visible in the light of day, protection you can see, and most of all, light that gives off hope and inspiration. “It’s also a play of words on my nickname, so through my masks I can help shine light on the darkness that now pervades the world and lift the spirits of the depressed.”