BusinessWeek Mindanao (March 5-6, 2021) by Mindanao Daily News

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Briefly Coco levy fund PRESIDENT Rodrigo R. Duterte on Friday night signed a measure creating a levy trust fund for coconut farmers, according to the presidential palace. Republic Act 115421 or the Coconut Farmers and Industry Trust Fund Act seeks to declare coconut levy assets as a trust fund to rehabilitate and modernize the country’s coconut industry. The measure lets poor coconut farmers benefit from taxes collected from them decades ago, now worth about P76 billion.

Teachers' workload A LAWMAKER at the House of Representatives on Thursday pushed for a measure that will help lessen teachers' workload and will make continuing professional development (CPD) free and more learner-oriented. During the hearing of the House Committee on Basic Education and Culture on House Bill 6231 or the proposed Teacher Empowerment Act, Albay Rep. Joey Salceda said that one problem in the basic education system is that teachers are unable to focus on teaching due to their non-teaching functions. Salceda said the complex, compliancebased, and bureaucratic education system has imposed several administrative burdens on teachers, which in turn resulted in substandard education outcomes.

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By ANTONIO L. COLINA IV, MindaNews

AVAO City – The plan of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) even for a “partial operability” of the long-delayed Tagum City-Davao City-Digos City (TDD) segment of the Mindanao Railway Project before the end of President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s six-year term looks encouraging, an official said.

R ome o Monteneg ro, assistant secretary of the Mindanao Development Authority said there is a conscious effort to fulfill the promise of the Duterte administration to implement

the priority projects in Mindanao despite various challenges. “The plan even for partial operability of the longcherished Mindanao Railway RAILWAY/PAGE 11

PhilHealth completes liquidation of alleged missing fund in Normin By MARK FRANCISCO, Reporter

THE state-owned Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) has already liquidated 96 percent or P744 million here in Northern Mindanao from the total P15-billion fund nationwide that was allegedly missing from government

coffers. In a recent Talakayan sa PIA last week, newly installed PhilHealth regional vice president Orlando Iñigo reported that this is just one of his priorities upon assuming office. COMPLETES/PAGE 11

BUYOBOD. A buyer weighs Japanese rubyfish locally known as “buyobod” in Mabua, a fishing village in Surigao City on Thursday. Buyobod sells at 200 pesos a kilo. mindanews photo by roel n . catoto

BARMM receives first batch of Sinovac vaccine for frontliners By FERDINANDH B. CABRERA, MindaNews

DATU ODIN SINSUAT, Maguindanao – A total of 4,200 jabs of the Sinovac v a c c i n e s for C ov i d - 1 9

intended for health workers in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) arrived Thursday. The Chinesemanufac ture d vaccines arrived onboard a Philippine Airlines plane at the Awang Airport in this town, and were received by BARMM Acting Health Minister Dr. Ameril Usman, provincial health officials of Maguindanao, and UNICEF representatives.

Usman said the vaccines will be distributed as follows: 1,400 for Maguindanao, 972 for Lanao del Sur, 278 for Basilan, 1,032 for Sulu, and 518 for Tawi-Tawi. He said the vaccines t h at a r r i v e d c a n o n l y accommodate 2,100 health workers, as each of them will receive two doses, the second to be administered 28 days after the first shot. BARMM has around 20,000 health workers in VACCINE/PAGE 11

TILAPIA. Fish cages containing tilapia continue to thrive in Lake Sebu, the biggest lake in the municipality of Lake Sebu, South Cotabato in this file photo taken last week. mindanews photo by bong s . sarmiento

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Coco processing plant seen to boost production in MisOcc DAVAO City – Farmers in Northern Mindanao, Zamboanga Peninsula, and the Bangsamoro Region can now expect relief from low coconut prices after a Filipino-owned processing company promised competitive prices, Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Secretary Emmanuel Piñol said Thursday. Piñol was referring to Peter Paul Philippines, which is into processing and manufacturing of virgin coconut oil, coconut water, desiccated coconut, and other high-value products. Peter Paul Philippines is set to open a modern coconut processing facility in Plaridel, Misamis Occidental, which could employ some 2,000 families in the province,

Piñol said. The "Plaridel Processing Facility" would initially need 250,000 husked coconuts daily, according to MinDA, quoting the firm's assistant vice president for special projects, Quirino Panganiban. Peter Paul Philippines, also known as Consolidated Coconut Corp. and a former subsidiary of the Connecticut, USA-based Peter Paul Inc., has already laid the groundwork for the establishment of the facility in a five-hectare area in Plaridel, MinDA said. Panganiban was quoted as saying that the volume would require a workforce consisting of 800 workers, which could go to as high BOOST/PAGE 11

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DOE orders stable power supply during vaccine rollout

EPARTMENT of Energy (DOE) Secretary Alfonso Cusi has issued an advisory to all power generation companies and industry stakeholders to ensure reliable and stable supply of energy as the government started its coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccine rollout. Cusi directed generation companies to ensure power supply especially in Covid-19 vaccine cold storage facilities and healthcare facilities, with prepared emergency response protocols and continuity plans in cases of power outages. Necessary support including installation of backup power supply should be provided in

BALINGASAG, MISAMIS ORIENTAL National Highway Balingasag, Barangay 4, Balingasag, Misamis Oriental Mobile Number/s: 0933-823-3161, 0933-823-3304 Tel. Number: 333-5161 CAGAYAN DE ORO P&J Lim Building, Tiano Kalambagohan St., Barangay 14, Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental Tel No. (08822) 727-829 / 231-6629 Telefax No. (088) 856-1947 Mobile No. 0933-823-3303 / 0943-708-7065 CAGAYAN DE ORO WAREHOUSE Warehouse 7, Bonbon Road, Kauswagan, Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental Mobile No. 0917-825-4149 / 0943-708-7065 CARMEN, CAGAYAN DE ORO Vamenta Blvd., fronting CEPALCO, Carmen, Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental Tel. No. (088) 233-2011 Mobile No. 0933-823-3159 CORRALES, CDO Corrales Ave., Barangay 29, Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental Telefax No. (088) 231-2055

cold storage facilities and healthcare facilities. To ensure enough power supply during the inoculation program, the energy chief has ordered to keep generating facilities at the maximum dependable capacity, managing water reservoirs to ensure optimal production of hydroelectric power plants, and securing adequate supply of fuel as well as maintaining reasonable fuel inventories. He also reminded industry players to comply with the grid operating and maintenance program for this year. “The DOE is working non-stop to establish an uninterrupted supply of electricity services at the onset of the vaccine rollout by the end of first quarter of 2021. We have been

DIVISORIA, CDO A. Velez St., Barangay 9, Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental Telefax No. (088) 856-1947 Mobile No. 0917-841-4000 / 0933-823-3164 GINGOOG CITY G/F Wyne Militante Bldg., Lugod St., Barangay 22, Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental Telefax No. (088) 861-0104 Mobile No. 0933-823-3168 LAPASAN, CDO National Highway (FICCO Bldg.), Lapasan, Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental Tel. No. (088) 231-6739 Mobile No. 0933-823-3160 PUERTO, CDO Purok 6, Puerto, Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental Tel. No. (088) 859-0574 Mobile No. 0943-708-7537 CAMIGUIN B. Aranas St., Poblacion, Mambajao, Camiguin Telefax No. (088) 387-0491 Mobile No. 0943-708-7539

meeting with the members of the energy family to fortify our strategies,” Cusi said in a statement Thursday. In cases of emergencies and power outages, he urged stakeholders to have backup personnel in power plants and augment maintenance crew to immediately respond to emergencies. Cusi added that close coordination with

the national and local government is also crucial in ensuring reliable power supply during the immunization program. He said security forces could be augmented in major power plants as needed, and industry stakeholders should coordinate with their respective local government unit regarding the locations of cold storage facilities. (PNA)

Online petition for BARMM transition extension breach 500K mark COTABATO City – An online petition urging President Rodrigo Duterte to certify as urgent the pending bills in Congress on the proposed extension of the transition period of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) has breached the 500,000 mark. “The issuance of a certificate of urgency by national lawmakers is needed considering that we have a very limited window for their session in Congress,” lawyer Mary Ann Arnado of the Mindanao People’s Caucus (MPC), a peace advocacy group, said on Wednesday. To date, Arnado said the signatories in the

online petition have reached 535,953 since it was launched early last month. “Considering the very limited session days remaining in Congress before it adjourns on June 4, 2021, there is a need to certify the pending bills so that it can be given more prominence and a sense of urgency given the equally important and competing concerns of the (legislative body),” she said in their petition. She added that the Mindanao State University, Cotabato City State Polytechnic College, Ateneo de Zamboanga University, Ateneo De Davao University, Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan, and other academic institutions have signified their support to the petition. Arnado added that other supporting organizations included the Sentro Soccsksargen and Save Sulu Movement (SSM). Yul Aluya, the Civil Society Organizations Movement for Moral Governance representative, said that organizations such as the Bangsamoro Communication Network and Sangguniang Kabataan in North Cotabato have volunteered to help those who do not have internet access but want to sign the petition. “It is important that President Duterte hears the voice of Mindanaoans in supporting the extension of the transition period in the BARMM up to 2025,” Aluya said. “The formation of the Bangsamoro region is one of the President’s legacy.” Herbert Demos of Sentro Soccsksargen said that although they are not within the BARMM territory, it was important for Mindanaoans to support the Bangsamoro peace process. “The future of our Bangsamoro brethren EXTENSION/PAGE 11

CorporateWorld 3 PH sustains manufacturing score in February Advertising and Editorial E-mail : businessweekmindanao@gmail.com Contact nos. : 0917-7121424 • 0947-8935776

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HE country sustained its 52.5 manufacturing purchasing managers’ index (PMI) for February 2021, the IHS Markit reported Monday. IHS Markit said the country’s manufacturing score last month signaled a solid operating condition as growth rate matched January 2021 level. The solid manufacturing condition last month was supported by increased output

volumes due to higher order inflows and demand. “Output and new order growth persisted, whilst an acceleration in pre-production inventories suggests a commitment towards greater production in the months ahead,” IHS Markit economist Shreeya Patel said. She said the rate of job shedding in February was the lowest for the past 12 months. However, Patel said the coronavirus disease 2019

(Covid-19) continues to pose a large threat of material shortages and transportation delays due to restrictions. Overseas demand remained “heavily subdued” last month, Patel said. "For now, controlling the Covid-19 pandemic remains at the heart of the Philippines’ agenda, and whilst vaccines have been secured, delivery delays have severely hindered efforts to vaccinate the nation,” she added.

Moreover, the level of optimism of manufacturers improved in February as they expect better production conditions in the next 12 months. Meanwhile, the Philippines has the second strongest manufacturing PMI among Asean countries in a February 2021 survey. Singapore recorded the strongest production score of 55.2. Behind the Philippines in

SSS says e-transactions up more than twice due to pandemic QUARANTINE restrictions put in place to address the spread of the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) resulted in the surge in Social Security System’s (SSS) electronic transactions in 2020.

In a virtual briefing Wednesday, SSS Executive Vice President Judy Frances A. See said transactions through the agency’s electronic channels accounted for 75 percent of the total in

2020, up from around 35 percent in the previous year. Manual transactions, in turn, dropped from 65 percent of the total in 2019 to just 25 percent last year, she said. For last January alone, access to the My.SSS portal registered average transactions of around 70,590 daily. See said registration to the My.SSS portal rose by 140.8 percent last year from the about 1.36 transactions in the previous year. “We already have

a total of 10.6 million registrations in My.SSS under the SSS website,” she said. Relatively, the SSS executive said contribution payments done through electronic channels accounted for 99.3 percent last year. SSS also registered an 11.14 times jump in the download of its mobile app last year from the 3.12 million downloads as of end-December 2019. “So there’s really a surge or a big increase in the number of online SSS/PAGE 10

manufacturing PMI for the previous month’s survey were Vietnam at 51.6, and Indonesia at 50.9. Asean countries that showed deterioration in the manufacturing sector last month were Malaysia with a PMI of 47.7, Thailand at 47.2, and Myanmar at 27.7 amid protests and political instability. Overall manufacturing score of Asean in February declined to 49.7 from 51.4 in January. (PNA)

Cebu Air stock rights offer starts CEBU AIR, Inc. (CEB), the listed operator of budget carrier Cebu Pacific, announced on Wednesday the start of its stock rights offer period. The company intends to raise around P12.5 billion, partly aimed at addressing the impact of the ongoing global health crisis on its business. In a disclosure to the stock exchange, the listed airline operator said a total of 328.95 million of “cumulative, nonvoting, non-participating convertible preferred shares” will be offered from March 3 to March 9. The company set the

offer price at P38 per share. It set the dividend yield per annum at 6%. “One entitlement right for every 1.8250 CEB common shares held as of record date,” it noted. March 29 has been set as the tentative listing date. Cebu Air said net proceeds from the offer should strengthen its balance sheet by providing liquidity to address its financial liabilities, including passenger refunds “in case cash inflows from operations become insufficient as a consequence of the pandemic’s impact on OFFER/PAGE 10

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SINCE the start of the crisis, UNWTO has convened the Committee to bring together governments, public and private sector leaders and international organizations to form a united and efficient response. (Shutterstock) The Global Tourism Crisis Committee has met for the first time in 2021. Organized by t he World Tour ism Organization (UNWTO), the cross-sector body met in Madrid during the 113th session of the UNWTO Executive Council to advance solid plans to restart tourism. The meeting focused on the integration of vaccines into a harmonized approach to safe travel and launching a coordinated effort to boost confidence in the sector. With countries around the world now rolling out vaccines against the Covid-19 virus, the Committee noted that this opens a critical window in the fight against the pandemic and to promote the safe resumption of international travel. Members

highlighted the importance of stepping up coordination, within the framework of the International Health Regulations, of vaccination certificates to ensure the implementation of common, harmonised digital related travel principles, protocols and documents. This would be in line with the work being carried out by the World Health Organization (WHO), which has reported at potential applications of digital technology to enable safe international travel and facilitate arrivals and departures. Harmonised plans and protocols the priority The Committee’s own Technical Group, chaired by Greece, alongside a d e d ic ate d inte r- age nc y group drawing on diverse parts of the United Nations system and international organisations, are working to ensure measures are implemented, including by governments, to foster their application at every level of tourism. The Technical Group Chairman Harry Theocharis provided his latest update, showing how concrete steps have been taken to guarantee a harmonized plan of action. U N W T O S e c re t a r y General Pololikashvili said: “The rollout of vaccines is a step in the right direction, but the restart of tourism cannot wait. Vaccines must be part of a wider, coordinated approach that includes certificates and

passes for safe cross-border travel. In the longer-term, we also need to restore confidence in tourism. The United for Travel campaign will help us achieve this, providing a clear and strong message that safe tourism is now possible.” Testing for safe and seamless travel Alongside the Technical Group’s work, the Committee called for support of the OECD’s own initiative aimed at developing a harmonized system of border controls. This would be developed in coordination with UNWTO as well as with WHO and, representing the civil aviation and the maritime sectors respectively, ICAO and the IMO. The Crisis Committee members also called for firm actions to support the standardisation, digitalisation and interoperability of testing protocols and certification systems. Members agreed that these should be based on commonly agreed evidence and risk-assessment indicators for origin and destinat ion countr y or territory. The implementation of t he CART Ta ke-Of f Guidance, developed by ICAO, was identified as an effective tool for advancing the harmonization of testing protocols and accelerating the establishment of Public Health Corridors. Committee draws on top expertise and leadership

Since the start of the crisis, UNWTO has convened the Committee to bring together governments, public and private sector leaders and international organizations to form a united and efficient response. Addressing this latest meeting were Margaritis Schinas, Vice President of the European Commission, OECD Secretary-General Ángel Gurría, and both tourism ministers from UNWTO’s Member States and leading representatives of from the civil aviation and cruise tourism sectors. Joining them and ensuring the United Nations speaks with one voice were Fang Liu, Secretary-General and Kitack Lim, Secretary-General of IMO. The Global Tourism Crisis Committee met against the backdrop of the 113th session of the UNWTO Executive Council, also being held in Madrid as a hybrid event. The Council brings together more than 150 in-person participants a l o n g s i d e p a r t i c i p a nt s representing governments and destinations of every global region, to advance UNWTO’s Programme of Work and to vote for the Organization’s SecretaryGeneral for 2022-2025. Crisis Committee: Recommendations and Next Steps Meeting on the occasion of the 8th Global Tourism Crisis REVIVE/PAGE 11

BTS Phenomena: Beyond culture, language, nationality

Philippine Press Institute Oro Chamber

Secret weapon Think a minute . . . Years ago a woman was awarded the Medal of Freedom, the highest honor an American civilian can receive. This was all the more amazing since she was not even an American! Mrs. Josefina Guerrero was from the Phi lippines, w here she became known simply as Joey. Joey was a young, pretty and outgoing lady who was well-known in her home city of Manila, and her husband was a successful medical student. Everything seemed to be going her way. Then World War II started. Joey and her friends offered to help the U.S. prisoners of war by bringing them food, clothing, medicine, and important messages. Later Joey even volunteered to serve as a spy and, in fact, became one of the most effective spies the Americans ever had. On her first mission she explored and drew maps of enemy camps. Her only weapons were paper and pencil which she used to record everything she saw behind enemy lines. One of Joey’s nearly

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UNTWO Committee Starts Working on Plans to Revive Tourism

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THINK A MINUTE

JHAN TIAFAU HURST impossible missions took her on foot through 56 miles of enemy territory, including minefields and enemy camps. It was this kind of bravery and skill on her many missions that earned her great respect from the American soldiers who gave her the affectionate nickname, Joey. What is most amazing is that during those three years of her highly successful career as a spy in enemy territory, Joey was never caught or even searched one time! But there was a special reason she was able to achieve such a remarkable record as a wartime spy who saved thousands of American WEAPON/PAGE 11

WHAT is this craze sweeping people across the globe? It’s COVID?! It’s the vaccine?! No...It’s BTS! For those of you who have not been bitten by the BTS bug, BTS (Bangtan Sonyeonda) is a group of 7 Korean boys and is now considered to be the most popular boy band in the world. I learned about BTS from my daughter Abbie, who is an avid fan. Ever since she got hooked last year, BTS is her daily dose of the booster. At first, I frowned at her being a fanatic. How can you be a fan when you cannot even understand their songs which as expected are mostly in Korean? And then I learned that a number of local and foreign celebrities and even some of my friends and colleagues are also into this BTS craze. Their fans club, called ARMY, has millions of members of different nationalities, languages, and age groups. To top it all, the Korean government is said to have amended a law allowing their globally K-pop artists to defer their mandatory military service to age 30 (it was 28 before). This came at a time when BTS's oldest member (Jin, 28) is nearing the service. Now, they really must be

something! I got interested and started joining my daughter on her nightly date with this boy band. I wanted to find out what’s drawing these people to this Korean boy band. Soon, I realized and understand why BTS is the phenomenon that it is. And learned a thing or two. The message of their songs is universal. (I watch their videos with the English translation so I can understand). Their songs reflect the sentiments and issues of the youth, which is the majority of their fan base. The ARMY can easily relate to their songs because they express the thoughts and feelings that they themselves want to communicate but cannot. They are singing the songs of their fans! My Take: We can use our talents, position, and popularity to be the voice of those who cannot and do not have the means to speak for themselves. Their songs are not only relatable but they also talk about positive and good vibes. In the midst of self-doubts, bullying, discrimination, and depression, their songs convey messages of hope, self-love, fighting on, chasing dreams, etc. which help their fans cope up and be hopeful

during their own trying times. Their music accompanied and provided their legion of fans that much-needed inspiration and optimism during this pandemic. My Take: We can always choose to be the source of love, hope, and anything positive to others. They are disciplined and professional. They are not a product of any reality contest. They did not just win any contest and instantly thrown into the limelight. They are a product of years of training, practice, and more training and practice. Their professionalism is lauded by the people who have worked with them. They are admired because of their synchronized moves. Their level of performance has remained consistent through the years. This can only be achieved through countless hours of practice. My Take: There is no shortcut to true and lasting success! It can only be achieved through hard work, perseverance, and discipline. They always give outstanding and superb performance. Their passion and energ y on stage is really contagious and their routines and steps are “buwis buhay”(risky). They literally “drop dead” after each

MINDFUL

JAY LEDESMA performance. Many times, they have injured or hurt themselves while performing. They always offer something new. Never mind if they have performed a number several times, each time seems new and different. As they said in one of their interviews, “Giving our best in every performance is our way to show our appreciation and respect to ARMY”. I know when I get the ch an c e to w atch t h e i r live concert, I will never get the feeling that I was shortchanged. My Take: Give your damn best in whatever you do, regardless of what that may be! We owe it to the people we work for and work with. T h e y re m ai n e d l i ke ordinary boys. No doubt, they are the biggest boy band of their PHENOMENA/PAGE 11

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Lifestyle

Dress up your desk with SM Stationery

ITH working from home emerging as a new lifestyle trend, we are certainly spending more time in our home offices. With that, our desks have become a favorite space where we make reports, plan our schedules, attend zoom meetings, and keep connected with friends and family. And the start of the New Year is a good time to give our desks at home or in the office, much- needed refresh with stylish accessories from SM Stationery. These desk-mates mirror the latest fashion trends – metallic mesh, geometric pattern – lattice, herringbone, dotted; and as well as pop of pastel colors that will help you work better and more creatively. Organize your desk with fun and functional accessories and storage systems that highlight your personality. Showcase the things you love

by adding gadget accessories like LED Touch lamp that makes your space modern and contemporary. Add green in your workspace to welcome new ideas and experiences. Indoor plants can help you keep calm and breathe in your work area. But most of all - make it also an inviting space for yourself as you work long hours, or for visitors who may drop by. The desk organizer set collection is available at selected SM Stationery section of the SM Stores. Also, SM Stationery is now online on www.smstationery.com.ph and with the SM Store’s #143SM Call to Deliver services. You can now have your homeoffice must-haves delivered right to your doorstep. Follow SM Stationery PH in Instagram and Facebook and join their Viber community for more details and info.

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BDO – COGON Sky hi Bldg JR Borja St. Cogon, Cdoc 8577963/ 725209/ 725203 BDO – OSMEÑA Osmeña corner Ramon Chavez St. Cdoc 724567/8563727 BDO – LAPASAN Lapasan Highway Cdoc 8563233 /8563234 / 725178 BDO – RN- PELAEZ George Town CyberMall Rn Pelaez Blvd Kauswagan Cdoc | 8562617/729052 BDO – CARMEN Maxsuniel cor.V Neri St. Carmen, .Cdoc 8584854 /8581133 BANK OF COMMERCE- VELEZ Akut- Velez St.Cdoc | 8564371 / 726880 BANK OF COMMERCE- LAPASAN

CM Recto Ave. Lapasan, Cdoc, 8563991/727731

BPI FAMILY SAVINGS BANK RER kauswagan,HW Cdoc 8573733 /722519 BPI FAMILY SAVINGS BANK Gaston Park Cdoc | 8801518 BPI – LAPASAN Cm Recto HW Lapasan Cdoc 724076/ 8524602 BPI- VELEZ Velez-JR Borja St.Cdoc 8564213/722406 BPI – CAPISTRANO Capistrano St. Cdoc 8574264/8574263 BPI- COGON Osmeña St. Cdoc 8571297/8571298 CHINA BANK –GAISANO 745887/745880 CHINA BANK- JR BORJA JR Borja St. Cdoc 8572212/8573274 CHINA BANK- LAPASAN CM Recto Lapasan HW Cdoc 8561325 /722240 CHINA BANK – CARMEN Max Suniel, Cor. Yakal St. Cdoc 8583903/723091 CHINA BANK – DIVISORIA RN Abejuela St. Divosoria Cdoc 8575759/722641 CITY SAVINGS BANK TS Fashion Ave.Justo Ramonal Corner St.Cdoc 2316060/ 2316059 CHINATRUST Suite U&5 G/LGateway Tower Lapasan Lkk Cdoc 8521846/8521844 D’ASIAN HILLS BANK HW. Lapasan Cdoc | 8564201/ 8564201 D’ASIAN HILLS BANK Vamenta Carmen Sts. Cdoc | 8585366 DBP – CORRALES Corrales Ave., St. Cdoc | 8572087/722649 DBP – CAPISTRANO JR Borja Capistrano St. Cdoc 8567776/722819

PBCOM Tiano-HayesSt. Cdoc | 726519/8571558 PLANTERS DEVELOPMENT BANK

Tiano Bros St. Cdoc | 727083 /727082 PHILTRUST BANK Ramonal OsmeñaSt. CDO 8807234/2316694/2316695 PNB- CORRALES Corrales Avenue Cdoc | 729500 / 729723

PNB- LKK MALL NORTH CONCOURSE

LKK Mall N.Concourse Cdoc 8574149/8575682

PNB- CARMEN Elipe Bldg.Carmen, Cdoc | 8583158/ 8584203 PNB- LKK LKK Lapasan, Cdoc | 8564347/722872 PNB CDO– DIVISORIA Tiano Bros.Cruz Taal St., Cdoc 722861 /722816 PNB CDO– LAPASAN LKK Center Lapasan, Cdoc | 8564732 / 723992 PNB CDO– COGON LKK Center Lapasan, Cdoc 8571991/ 723992 PHILIPPINE POSTAL SAVINGS BANK, INC. bels_domingo@yahoo.com.ph Rizal Chavez Cdoc 8572194/725438 PS BANK Velez Corner A. Mabini St., Cdoc 8574183/725184 PHILIPPINE VETERANS BANK Tiano-Abejuela St. Cdoc 722644/8573386 QUEEN CITY DEVELOPMENT BANK, INC. Sacred Heart Mont. Cm RectoAve., Cdoc 8562390 RCBC- VELEZ Velez-Borja St. Cdoc | 8564982/8568888 RCBC- COGON Simplex Bldg. Osmeña St. Cdoc 8562888/725863/8521329 RCBC- LAPASAN Cm. Recto Lapasan HW. Cdoc 8561888/722449 RCBC- LKK Gateway, Tower 1 LkkCenter, Cdoc 8563707/722449 RCBC SAVINGS- CARMEN Walingwaling St.,Carmen St. Cdoc 8585793/ 8586248 RCBC SAVINGS- VELEZ Velez St. Cdoc | 729083/8562460 RCBC SAVINGS- AGORA 8807891/8807892 RURAL BANK OF CABADBARAN, Inc.

#58 Tiano FernandezSt.CDO 727215/ 8563552 *805

SECURITY BANK- OSMEÑA Osmeña St. Cdoc | 8563965/ 723411/728774 SECURITY BANK- LKK Limketkai | 8801258/8801625

EAST WEST BANK #5 Juan Sia Bldg. Apolinar Velez St.Cdoc 8578801/720081

SECURITY BANK- VELEZ Velez Montalvan St., Cdoc | 728334/856632

EAST WEST BANK Cogon De Oro Constraction Bldg. LKK Drive 8500339/8500331

STERLING BANK OF ASIA Tiano Velez St. CDO | 8528171/8528168

ENTERPRISE BANK INC. Centro Mariano Bldg Osmeña St. Cdoc 723869/ 3093395 FIRST CONSOLIDATED BANK CM Recto Ave., Cor.Agudo Road Cdoc 8565360/2316678 LBP – CAPISTRANO Capsitrano St. Cdoc | 8565515/727678 LBP – VELEZ LunaVelez St. | 723549/8563198 LBP – PUERTO Puerto Cdoc | 8558858 MAYBANK JR Borja Tiano Cor. Bldg. Cdoc 8574439/726060 METRO BANK- DIVISORIA Pabayo Abejuela St. Divisoria Park, Cdoc 724783/8576999 METRO BANK- VELEZ A. Velez St. Cdoc | 8561724/726054 METRO BANK- JR BORJA JR Borja St. Cdoc | 8572999/724415

UCPB BANK- LAPASAN Osmeña Corner Lkk Drive, Cdoc 85771842/ 725135 UCPB BANK- VELEZ Velez Corner C. Pacana St. CDO 8564474/8564527 UCPB BANK SAVINGS-CAPISTRANO

Capistrano Corner CruzTaal St. CDO 8524099/722695

UCPB BANK SAVINGS- OPOL Gf forever Books Bldg.Bulua National CDO 754519/8588063 UNION BANK Lapasan Cm.Recto Cdoc | 8566847/8563805 WEALTHBANK Velez Gomez St. Cdoc | 8568942/722174 1ST VALLEY BANK Vamenta Blvd. CornerLirio St. Carmen, Cdoc 8501871/ 8584146 OROBANKERS CLUB Inc. Pnb Carmen | 09151850242

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FRI-SAT|MARCH 5-6, 2021

BOI approvals surge 156% in Jan-Feb ‘21

NVESTMENT approvals at the Board of Investments (BOI) surged by 156 percent in the first two months of the year compared to the same period in 2020, Trade Secretary and BOI Chairman Ramon Lopez said on Wednesday. “Investments registered in our Board of Investments showed sustained growth of 156.02 percent year-on-year in the first two months of this year, reaching P121.93 billion or $2.5 billion for two months,” Lopez

said at the online Manila Forum of the Association of Philippines and China Understanding. From January to February 2020, BOI approved P47.63 billion worth of investments from 51 projects, the investment promotion agency said. Although this year, the number of projects was lower by 39 percent as these investments came from 31 projects from January to February this year, BOI data show. In terms of employment, the P121.93 billion investments

will generate 10,207 jobs in the future. Job generation for the first two months of the year is 41.59 percent higher than the 7,209 employment in the same period last year. Meanwhile, the majority of the approved investments came from local sources. Philippine-based companies registered a total of P115.72 billion worth of projects, while investments from foreign sources amounted to P6.21 billion. (PNA)

Covid-19 vax rollout seen to boost bank lending THE rollout of coronavirus disease (Covid-19) vaccine program is expected to increase chances of further reopening the domestic economy and support bank lending amidst its continued slowdown as of last January due to the pandemic. Data released by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) on Tuesday showed a deeper year-on-year contraction in bank lending, excluding those placed by banks in the central bank’s overnight reverse repurchase (RRP) facility, of -2.4 percent from month-ago’s -0.7 percent. In a report, Rizal

Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) chief economist Michael Ricafort said the latest bank lending figure for universal and commercial banks (U/ KBs) is the weakest in more than 14 years, or since August 2006. Ricafort said this development is “consistent with slower business/economic conditions, in view of the GDP (gross domestic product) contraction of -9.5 percent in 2020 and -8.5 percent in fourthquarter 2020 largely brought about by the Covid-19 lockdowns/ pandemic.” “The latest -2.4 percent contraction in bank loans data

(is) also consistent with expectations/ estimates of low singledigit year-on-year contraction in 1Q (first quarter) 2021 GDP (partly due to higher base/denominator a year ago, shortly before the Covid-19 pandemic/lockdowns),” he said. Ricafort said bank lending growth “has always been much faster, by about 7-10 percentage points, visa-vis GDP growth) for many years/decades.” In the coming months, he said further easing of quarantine restrictions is seen to boost bank lending since this will result in more active economic activities thus, a pick-

up in loan demand. “Any pick up in imports, manufacturing, and other business/ economic activities would also lead to some pick up in loan demand,” Ricafort said. The low interest rate environment, which is a result of the 200 basis points reduction in BSP’s key policy rates last year, is also projected to entice borrowers to take out loans, he said. He added additional infrastructure spending by the government is also forecast to help lift bank lending since this has higher multiplier effects on the economy. (PNA)

Beijing-based AIIB exploring $300-M loan for PH BEIJING-based multilateral development bank Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is exploring $300 million worth of loans for the Philippines, AIIB president Jin Liqun said Wednesday. At the virtual Manila Forum of the Association of Philippines-China Understanding (APCU), Jin said the new loan will fund the Philippine government’s Covid-19 immunization program. He added that

aside from financing the acquisition of the Covid-19 vaccines, the loan will be used for programs to mitigate the adverse impact of the global health and economic crisis. AIIB approved last year a loan of $750 million to the Philippines, which is co-financed by the Asian Development Bank, Jin said. He added that this budgetary support funded the increasing Covid-19 testing capacity in the Philippines, supporting vulnerable sectors including agriculture

and poor households through conditional cash transfers and emergency assistance, and wage subsidies. “In general, AIIB’s Covid19 assistance was meant for vulnerable countries, vulnerable businesses, and vulnerable people. That is why we are also mindful of our borrowers’ financial health and vulnerability to debt. We protect the welfare and financial sustainability of our members,” the AIIB executive said. Commenting on the debt trap issue, Jin said borrowing money from

external sources is not necessarily the source of debt problems of a country. “It’s not the borrowing that created the debt problems. It’s the use of the proceeds of the debt, it’s the use of the borrowed money that matters, that makes or breaks,” he said. (PNA)

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FRI-SAT|MARCH 5-6, 2021

AIA Philam Life provides comprehensive health protection for every Filipino family I F there was one thing we learned from 2020, it’s making sure that health is a top priority. The rising number of cases and deaths caused by the pandemic served as a wakeup call for Filipinos to safeguard their family's wellbeing. In a recent online event held for the media, AIA Philam Life tapped its protection ambassadors Gary Valenciano, his son

Paolo Valenciano and wife Sam Valenciano, to share their personal stories of protection and the importance of passing on the legacy of protection to the younger generation. Protection is at the core of AIA Philam Life’s mission—to race against risk and protect every Filipino family and empower them to live healthier, longer and better lives. In fulfillment of

this mission, AIA Philam Life launched innovative products within the last two years, referred to as the Protection Trinity, designed to help address the basic protection needs of Filipinos: life, critical illness, and medical. AIA Critical Protect 100 was launched in 2019, providing coverage from 100 critical illnesses, from age 0 to 100. Within the same

year, AIA All-In-One was introduced—an affordable non-participating whole life insurance plan which provides financial protection from death, accident, disability, and critical illness, offering comprehensive and guaranteed protection benefit against risks (including natural calamities and riding public transportation) that may be experienced now or in the

future. Last year, the trinity was completed with the launch of AIA Med-Assist, designed to help manage the financial burden of Filipino families due to unexpected medical expenses. AIA Med-Assist bridges the expense gap between HMO and life insurance coverage to ensure savings remain untouched despite hospital confinement for more than 12 hours. To further strengthen its Protection Trinity portfolio, AIA Philam Life recently launched the newest addition, AIA Health Cover, a peso-denominated variable life insurance plan which provides all-around health and critical illness protection. Tennyson Paras, AIA Philam Life Head of Products, explains, “In developing AIA Health Cover that offers comprehensive health and protection benefits, we give Filipinos a product that can cover them in case they are diagnosed with any of the 91 critical illnesses or get benefits like a daily allowance if they are hospitalized for at least 24 hours.” Leo Tan, AIA Philam Life Chief Marketing

Officer, shares the rationale for the development of the Protection Trinity portfolio, “With the huge protection gap in the country coupled with the low insurance penetration rate, there’s a lot of work to be done in the fulfillment of our mission of racing against risk, and developing the Protection Trinity products was one of the best ways we can achieve that. This is the basic financial need that Filipinos have not been paying attention to these past few years, and with the pandemic bringing into focus the importance of protection, we want to make sure we are offering them the best and complete suite of products to meet that need. By making sure that we have the right products, we go a long way in helping our customers live Healthier, Longer and Better Lives.” Know more about AIA Health Cover and AIA Philam Life’s protection products by visiting the AIA Philam Life website at philamlife.com, Facebook page at https:// www.facebook.com/ AIAPhilamLife/, email philamlife@aia.com or call (02)8528-2000

Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT OF LANAO DEL NORTE 12th Judicial Region OFFICE OF THE CLERK OF COURT EX-OFFICIO SHERIFF Tubod, Lanao del Norte NOTICE OF EXTRA – JUDICIAL SALE (EJF No. 228-07-2021) Upon the Extra Judicial Petition for Sale under Act 3135, as amended, filed by the 1st VALLEY BANK, A DEVELOPMENT BANK, Ozamiz Branch 2, Rizal Ave., cor. Burgos St., Ozamiz City against ARJIE A. BELHOT, of legal age, single and a resident of Barangay Aguada, Ozamiz City, to satisfy the indebtedness which as of December 9, 2019, amounting to FIVE HUNDRED THOUSAND PESOS (P500,000.00) ONLY excluding penalties, charges, attorney’s fee and expenses of foreclosure, the undersigned or his duly authorized deputy will sell at Public Auction on 28th day of April, 2021 at 10:00 A.M. or soon thereafter at the Regional Trial Court, Branch 07, Provincial Capitol of Lanao del Norte, Pigcarangan, Tubod, Lanao del Norte, to the highest bidder for cash or manager’s check and in Philippine Currency, the following property with all its improvements, to wit: LIST OF MORTGAGED PROPERTY OCT No. CLOA-9,288 Lot No. 282, GSS-12-000189-D “A parcel of land Lot 282, Gss-12-000189-D of Settlement Proj. No. 1, situated in the Barrio of Palao, Municipality of Tubod, Province of Lanao del Norte, Island of Mindanao. Bounded on the W., points 1-2 by Road; on the N., points 2-3 by Lot 264; on the SE., points 3-4 by Public Land; and on the S., points 4-1 by Lot 283, all of the subdivision plan. Containing an area of SIXTEEN THOUSAND SEVEN HUNDRED SEVENTY EIGHT (16,778) SQUARE METERS, more or less. Lot No. 284, GSS-12-000189-D “A parcel of land Lot 284, Gss-12-000189-D of Settlement Proj. No. 1, situated in the Barrio of Palao, Municipality of Tubod, Province of Lanao del Norte, Island of Mindanao. Bounded on the N., points 1-2 by Lot 265; on the E., points 2-3 by Road ; and on the SW., points 3-1 by Lot 285, all of the subdivision plan. Containing an area of ONE THOUSAND SIX HUNDRED FIFTY FIVE (1,655) SQUARE METERS, more or less.”

All sealed bids must be submitted to the undersigned on the above stated time and time.

In the event that the Public Auction cannot take place on the said date, it shall be held on May 26, 2021 without further notice.

Tubod, Lanao del Norte, Philippines, this March 3, 2021.

BWM: March 5, 12 & 19, 2021

ATTY. AISA B. MUSA-BARRAT Clerk of Court VI and Ex-Officio Sheriff By: ROY B. MADRONA Sheriff IV BWM: Feb. 26, Mar. 5 & 12, 2021

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FRI-SAT|MARCH 5-6, 2021

DIRECTORY

The All-New Honda PCX160 Bringing the Filipino Riders Pride to the Next Level

AS motorcycles become more and more essential in solving Filipinos' commuting needs, Honda Philippines Inc. (HPI), the No.1 motorcycle manufacturer in the country, officially announced the most awaited scooter - The All-New PCX160. Bringing elegance and superiority to the next level, The All-New PCX160 lets Filipino riders to stand out on the road and ride with pride with its all-new premium and elegant design, improved driving performance with comfortable and spacious riding, and the latest technology and security features. The All-New PCX160

A PUBLIC SERVICE BY:

promises to make Filipinos' riding experience go to the next level. Powered by a new engine with “eSP+ or Enhanced Smart Power Plus”, the driving performance is improved by increasing the engine displacement to 157cc and applying a 4-Valve, Single Overhead Cam, LiquidCooled mechanism. It also gives riders a potent combination of engine power and performance with a 11.8kW@ 8,500rpm and a highly efficient 45.1 Km/L fuel consumption. It is equipped with advanced and exciting features such as a new LED headlight with position light and taillights design, giving it a fresher look, a hazard

lamp, new wheel design and bigger tubeless tires for a better handling and more comfortable ride, twin shock rear suspension for smooth rides, and a new and wider digital meter panel for improved information visibility. It is also fitted out with an Idling Stop System (ISS) to avoid wasteful fuel consumption, an upgraded USB type power outlet for convenient gadget charging, and Smart Key with Anti-Theft Alarm and Answer Back System for better motorcycle security, a 30-liter utility box which gives riders bigger storage space, and an 8-liter fuel tank capacity for longer and more enjoyable journeys. Along with its innovative features and sophisticated design, HPI ensures that the comfort and safety of riders comes first. The All-New PCX160 has two brake variations, namely, the AntiLock Brake System (ABS) type and the Combi-Brake System (CBS) type. Both variants are equipped with front and rear disc brakes. The ABS variant adopts disc brakes for the front and rear for optimal braking performance. And it is also equipped with a Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC). The ABS and HSTC are perfectly combined to ensure rider’s safety: HSTC

controls safety on wheel traction, while ABS provides safety rebound to prevent braking lock-up. The AllNew PCX160 ABS variant comes in two premium colors choose from, namely, the Asteroid Black Metallic and the Pearl Fadeless White, and has a suggested retail price of Php133,900. On the other hand, the CBS variant is combined with front and rear disc brakes, letting riders achieve smoother operation and better handling while braking. It also comes in two premium color variants such as the Matte Dim Gray Metallic and the Pearl Fadeless White with a suggested retail price of Php115,900. "At Honda Philippines, we want to impact the lives of all Filipinos with our motorcycles. We believe The All-New PCX160 will do just that. After all, what we want is to contribute to the creation of a better, new normal," HPI President Susumu Mitsuishi said. The All-New Honda PCX160 will be available at all Honda dealerships nationwide on May 2021. It is only one of Honda's vast array of motorcycles made to improve every Filipino’s riding experience. It is in line with the company's "ONE DREAM" campaign, which aims to fulfill every Filipino's dream through the joy of mobility. Explore more from Honda and its wide array of motorcycles. For more details about Honda products and promos, visit our website at www. hondaph.com and follow us on Facebook, Honda Philippines, Inc., and Instagram, @hondaph_mc. You can also contact us through our landline number, (02)-8581-6700 to 6799, and mobile number, 0917-884-6632.

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FRI-SAT|MARCH 5-6, 2021

LANDBANK lends P6.95B to MSMEs, co-ops for COVID-19 relief T HE Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK) has approved loans totaling P6.95 billion for 227 borrowers composed mostly of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and cooperatives that are affected by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the I-RESCUE (Interim REhabilitation Support to Cushion Unfavorably affected Enterprises by Covid-19) Lending Program, LANDBANK has released P5.28 billion of the total P6.95 billion for the benefit of 208 borrowers, composed of 167 MSMEs, 34 cooperatives, four (4) microfinance institutions (MFIs), and three (3) large corporations as of endJanuary 2021. Launched in April 2020 at the height

of strict quarantine lockdowns, the I-RESCUE Lending Program was designed in support of Republic Act 11494 or the “Bayanihan to Recover as One Act (Bayanihan 2)” to provide credit and loan restructuring under more flexible terms and conditions to MSMEs, MFIs, and cooperatives. LANDBANK recently expanded the coverage of the Program to allow more borrowers affected by the pandemic to avail of credit and loan restructuring assistance. The I-RESCUE Lending Program now allows micro enterprises and large corporations to borrow a maximum of 85% of their emergency or permanent working capital requirement. Terms are set at an affordable interest rate of 5% per annum for three (3) years, subject to annual re-

pricing thereafter, and payable up to 10 years with a maximum of two (2) years grace period on the principal repayment. Moreover, LANDBANK is currently working on expanding the I-RESCUE Program further to offer a new sub-credit facility for MSMEs, cooperatives, and self-employed individuals severely

additional loan and extended repayment period or combination of means to rehabilitate and restore operational cash flow. The LANDBANK I-RESCUE Lending Program is available until December 31, 2022. Interested borrowers may contact the nearest open LANDBANK Lending Center or Branch nationwide or call LANDBANK’s customer service hotline at (02) 8-4057000 or at PLDT Domestic Toll Free affected by the health wider range of key 1-800-10-405-7000. crisis. Qualified industries that need borrowers may soon greater access to credit. For more updates, be able to borrow a LANDBANK is keeping please Follow, Like and Share the minimum amount in step with emerging of P100,000 or up to requirements under the official LANDBANK 85% of their actual new normal in support Facebook, Instagram permanent working of the country’s ongoing and YouTube accounts (@landbankofficial), capital requirement, at a economic recovery,” Twitter (@LBP_ lower fixed interest rate said LANDBANK Official), and join of 3% per annum only, President and CEO our Viber community payable up to three (3) Cecilia C. Borromeo. (@LANDBANK), or years. Existing visit the LANDBANK “We are enhancing LANDBANK clients website (www.landbank. the I-RESCUE Lending may also avail of loan com). Program to cover a restructuring via

If interested, contact:

DANICA SUDARIA

dannycarosesudaria0512@gmail.com 0936-046-2356

Offer... from page 3

health and travel-related concerns.” Cebu Air suffered a net loss of P14.69 billion for the first nine months of 2020 from the P6.77-billion profit it generated in the same period in 2019.

SSS...

from page 3

transactions last year, in 2020. This was brought about the pandemic, when there is limited mobility and our members cannot go to the SSS branches also,” she added. To date, SSS ser vices that can be done through the My.SSS portal include applications for calamity loan, pension loan, retirement benefit (subject to qualifying conditions for online filing), unemployment benefit, and funeral claim. SSS members can also submit through the portal requests for member data change for simple corrections for members, and submission of sickness b e ne f it re i mbu rs e me nt application for employers. (PNA)

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FRI-SAT|MARCH 5-6, 2021

AboitizPower backs PH grid with battery

MIDST the increasing demand for a reliable supply of electricity in the country, AboitizPower is adding to its portfolio battery energy storage system (BESS) projects that will help ensure grid stability through sufficient ancillary services. BESS is a type of energy storage system that is capable of storing energy electrochemically. It can be connected to the grid, small grid, distribution system, or end-user facility to deliver the energy demand when needed. “Our foray into battery technology is a key component of our 10-year growth strategy, which ultimately aims to address the energy trilemma of energy

security, energy equity, and environmental sustainability,” AboitizPower President and Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel V. Rubio said. The company, in partnership with Wartsila and Aboitiz Construction, recently started the installation of its first BESS project in its Therma Marine, Inc. (TMI) facility with a capacity of 49 megawatts (MW) in Maco, Davao de Oro. This will fortify TMI’s capability to support the Mindanao grid, especially during the summer months when there is a limited supply of energy generated by hydropower plants due to lower water levels. TMI BESS is the first of its kind in the Philippines in terms of the hybrid concept,

EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF THE ESTATE OF THE DECEASED CUSTODIO L. CUÑADO

EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT WITH DEED OF ABSOLUTE SALE

KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS:

That the late CUSTODIO L. CUÑADO, who died on June 27, 2014 in Cagayan de Oro City, without leaving any last will and testament, that the deceased MANUEL A. RIVERA, at the time of his death, is the conjugal owner of parcel of land with TRANSFER CERTIFICATE OF TITLE NO. 137-2013004153 situated in Cogon (now Camaman-an), Cagayan de Oro City containing an area of ONE HUNDRED FIFTY (150) SQ.M., MORE OR LESS, and has been the subject of an EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF THE ESTATE OF THE DECEASED CUSTODIO L. CUÑADO, filed by the heirs of CUSTODIO L. CUÑADO, per DOC #435; PAGE #87; BOOK #217; Series of 2021 under the Notarial Registry of ATTY. MARIO T. JUNI.

That the late ESTER GABOR VELEZ, who died on 12-11-2016 at Cagayan de Oro City, that the deceased died intestate, without will or testament and without any outstanding debts in favor of any person or entity, that deceased left among others a parcel of land with Transfer Certificate of Title No. T-197446 situated at Kauswagan, Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental, containing an area of ONE THOUSAND (1,000) square meters, more or less, and has been the subject of an EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT WITH DEED OF ABSOLUTE SALE, filed by the heirs of ESTER GABOR VELEZ, in favor of TONY CULTURA CO and ANDY ONG, per DOC #431; PAGE #87; BOOK #90; Series of 2020 under the Notarial Registry of ATTY. QUINTILIANITO S. BABARIN,JR.

BWM: March 5, 12 & 19, 2021

requirements for maintaining grid stability is Ancillary Services. In order to maintain the loadgeneration balance of the system, the grid will require sufficient Ancillary Services. These are support services that are necessary to sustain the transmission capacity and energy that are essential in maintaining the power quality, reliability, and security of the grid. Adopting the recommendation of the Grid Management Committee (GMC), the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) recognized BESS as a putting together source of Frequency two complementing technologies to ensure Control Ancillary Services (FCAs). a fast and sustained FCAs are necessary energy delivery. to ensure a balance This is one of the 12 between supply and projects with a total demand in the power capacity of 248 MW system. for regulating and AboitizPower, one contingency reserves of the largest energy that AboitizPower is companies in the targeting to develop Philippines, is also in the next 10 years. the largest provider of It will serve as AboitizPower’s model Ancillary Services in the country, thus wellfor its future battery positioned to support investments, as well its continued growth as hybrid renewable moving forward. energy projects. In addition to “The battery its entry into the technology presents battery market, a great opportunity AboitizPower’s growth for AboitizPower to strategy in the next address concerns decade will also be on the reliability, significantly driven by affordability, and renewable energy. sustainability of Currently, energy supply. By AboitizPower, together ensuring the stability with its partners, is of our grid, we are the largest owner responding to the needs of our customers and operator of renewable energy in and communities, as the Philippines based well as supporting on installed capacity. economic growth,” It has been leading Rubio added. in the renewable The Department energy space since of Energy (DOE), as the 1970s, beginning shared in the 2021with hydro then later 2040 Transmission on expanding to also Development Plan add geothermal and of the National Grid solar to its Cleanergy Corporation of the portfolio. Philippines (NGCP), In the next 10 projected that the years, AboitizPower system peak demand will reach 53,679 MW will further grow its Cleanergy portfolio, by 2040. With this both domestically and forecasted demand growth, it is necessary internationally, in an effort to help build the to ensure the grid’s country’s renewable stability to provide energy market and consumers with a contribute to the reliable supply of global renewable electricity. energy goals. One of the

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FRI-SAT|MARCH 5-6, 2021

Weapon... from page 4

lives. Joey had a weakness that she used as her secret weapon to help win the war: she had leprosy! You may have what you think is a weakness, but God can help you find the way to use it for your success by helping others around you and making a difference in the world. Won’t you ask Him to take full charge of your life? Only He can truly lead you into the successful and satisfying life He has planned for you. Just think a minute . . .

Revive... from page 4

Committee, held in Madrid, on January 18 and within the context of the 113th session of the UNWTO Executive Council, the members of the Committee recalled: • That the vaccination opens a critical window of opportunity to fight the Covid-19 pandemic and promote the safe reassuming of international travel alongside other risk mitigation tools such COVID-19 testing. • That according to the World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General report to the WHO Executive Council on ‘Strengthening preparedness for health emergencies: implementation of the International Health Regulations (2005); Interim progress report of the Review Committee on t he Func t ioning of the International Health Regulations (2005) during the COVID-19 Response’ the Committee “is looking into the possible applications of digital technology to enable safe international travel, including for documentation at points of entry (arriving and departing travellers), travel history, testing and contact tracing, and possibly vaccination requirements. • The urgency of accelerating the coordination of international cross-border travel principles and protocols to ensure a safe and seamless restart of tourism in view of the resurge of cases and the continued lack of common principles and mechanisms for testing protocols related to travel. The Committee called for: • Stepping up the coordination, within the framework of the International Health Regulations, of vaccination certificates to ensure a timely monitoring, definition and implementation of common, harmonized digital related travel principles, protocols and documents. • Support the standardisation, digitalisation and interoperability of testing protocols and certification systems, based on commonly agreed evidence and riskassessment indicators for or ig in and dest inat ion country/territory. • Support of the Organisation of Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)’s initiative for the development and c o ord i nat i on of a

harmonised system in all countries to open borders safely in coordination with World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the International Mar it ime Organizat ion (IMO) and the World Health Organization (WHO). • The implementation of the ICAO CART Takeoff Guidance, including the Manual on Testing and Crossborder Risk Management Measures3 and establishing Public Health Corridors (PHCs), in order to advance the harmonization of testing protocols requirements. • Countries to ensure that measures affecting international traffic are risk-based, evidence-based, coherent, proportionate and time limited.

Phenomena...

from page 4 generation. But they managed to stay humble and down to earth. They have received all forms of recognition and adulation but they still get emotional (they cry) and are still overwhelmed by the outpouring of ARMY’s support and admiration. They have this regular BTS documentary where you see them away from the spotlight and doing their daily stuff. They are just like any other regular boys. They play, have fun and just be themselves. There’s no air of arrogance, no prima donna, no scene stealers among them. My Take: Always be grounded and in touch with your true self. Don’t let success and accolades blind you to the reality and of what matters most. They have an excellent Management team. While these 7 boys deliver the p e r for manc e on st age, several men and women are working behind the scenes to make sure that everything is perfect. From the props, stage concept and designs, costumes, choreography to marketing paraphernalia, merchandising, and promotional gimmicks, their management team really knows what they’re doing and how to do it A-1. My Take: Success is not the work of one person, not even of 7 people, in the case of BTS. It’s a team effort...it’s Teamwork! Many are involved in what you have achieved, be always grateful! And last but not the least, these 7 boys (Jin, V, Jungkook, Jimin, RM, J-Hope

and Suga) are simply adorable and charming. Though they are in their 20’s already, they look so boyish. No wonder they appealed also to those in the higher age bracket. They are the sons and nephews that moms and Titas (that now includes me) love and are fond of. Their fashion and style are unique and refreshing. They are not afraid to experiment. Not all male artists can wear and pull off those colored printed suits, or those ruffled and flowery tops, or those silky robes. But these goodlooking boys can wear them with flair. And their fandom loves it! My Take: Dare to be different...Express your individuality...Explore new things! Don't be limited and dictated by the norms and by expectations. This article is a departure from my usual beat. Some may even be shocked that am writing about this boy band. But I deem it worthy to write about BTS because I believe we can learn something from them. Let’s be mindful, as BTS has clearly shown us, that we need not be of the same nationality and culture or speak the same language to influence, give happiness and make a difference in others’ lives. These 7 Korean boys, who can hardly speak the English language, are one of them, if not, the biggest influencers of today. Yo u h av e t o w at c h and experience them to understand the BTS phenomenon.

Completes... from page 1

Another is reimbursing expenses incurred by local government units (LGUs) in admitting COVID-19 patients into their isolation facilities. As of Fe br u a r y 2 3 , PhilHealth has already reimbursed P4.9 million to Region 10-based LGUs for the purpose. Iñigo admitted that the amount is small since other LGUs opted not to adopt the 14-day mandatory isolation for admitted patients if they cleared the virus earlier. Iñigo said they differ from Department of Health (DOH) policy which allows patients to go home once they tested negative of the coronavirus. "It is still the LGUs' option to release their patients early. But for purposes of reimbursement, we abide by our 14-day policy," Iñigo

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said. At the national level, PhilHealth reported that it will complete its liquidation of the alleged missing P15billion fund within the month.

Railway... from page 1

Project TDD segment within the current administration’s timeline looks hopeful,” he said. Transportation Assistant Secretary Eymard Eje said the government is eyeing partial operability of the dieseloperated 102-kilometer TDD segment of the railway by March 2022. Eje said the DOTr hopes to operationalize the section between Panabo City and neighboring Carmen town in Davao del Norte before Duterte steps down on June 30 next year. The “flat terrain” along the Panabo-Carmen line is a good launching pad for the highly-anticipated railway project, he said. Panabo and Carmen are among the eight areas in Davao Region where the government planned to build the stations. The six others will be constructed in Tagum City, Davao del Norte; Mudian, Davao Terminal, and Toril in Davao City; and Santa Cruz town and Digos City in Davao del Sur. Eje said the DOTr, in c o ord i n at i on w it h t h e local governments units, is currently working on the right-of-way acquisition for the properties along the railway path. He said the P81.7-billion project will be funded through the official development assistance (ODA) from the Chinese government. He said they have yet to process the ODA with China, which requires the Philippine government to complete the procurement process for the project management consultant and the design and build contractor before it could grant the loan. He said procurement for the project management c o n s u l t a nt i s o n g o i n g while the agency awaits the shortlist of design and build contractors who will participate in the bidding. Once completed, Eje said the government will then negotiate for the loan but

added that this will likely be approved within the year. He said the government will still have to accomplish the detailed engineering design once the loan is approved prior to the actual construction of the railway. According to the agency, the TDD segment will reduce travel time from 3.5 hours to 1.3 hours between Tagum and Digos Cities and will provide “passengers safe, fast, and reliable transport options on the TDD commuter line.” It is expected to serve approximately 134,000 riders a day by 2022, up to 237,000 by 2032, and 375,000 by 2042. The TDD segment is the first phase of the 1,550-kilometer railway that aims to connect the key cities of Davao, Butuan, Surigao, Cagayan de Oro, Iligan, Cotabato, Zamboanga and General Santos upon its completion. (Antonio L. Colina IV/MindaNews)

Extension...

from page 1

from page 2

Vaccine...

its five provinces and the cities of Marawi in Lanao del Sur, Lamitan in Basilan and Cotabato, which has officially joined the region. Usman said the vaccines for health workers in Cotabato City were included in the procurement for Region 12, the region where it previously belonged. The vaccines for health workers in Amai Pakpak Medical Center in Marawi were included in the delivery for Region 10 or Northern Mindanao. Usman said the vaccination of health workers will start Friday at the Integrated Provincial Health Office in Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao. He assured Muslims that the Sinovac vaccines have been certified as halal by the Indonesian government. But he clarified that health workers who would refuse to be vaccinated won’t be sanctioned. “They are given the option that if they don’t want Sinovac, pwede sila sa ibang (they can try other) brands,” he said. He said the vaccines made by AstraZeneca and Pfizer have no halal certifications yet, although the two companies claimed that their products have no pork derivatives. (Ferdinandh B. Cabrera/ MindaNews)

from page 2

d e p e n d s mu c h on t h e success of BARMM for us to attain peace and unity in Mindanao,” he said. Demos said that his organization has so far gathered 50,000 signatures from General Santos City, 10,000 from Sarangani, 10,000 from South Cotabato, and 5,000 in Sultan Kudarat. On the other hand, Juhan Alihuddinsaid of the SSM said they have managed to garner 20,000 signatures in just three weeks since the petition started. For his part, Abdulhadi Daguit, chairman of the Federation of Bangsamoro C oordinating C ouncil of the Philippines, said they recently conducted barangay-to-barangay dialogues in Metro Manila, where they collected some 6,000 signatures. (PNA)

Boost...

as 2,000 when the facility goes into full operation. He said the company would also offer buying prices higher than other traders' prevailing farm gate prices. According to Panganiban, the Plaridel pro cessing plant would be their third in the country, with the first plant established in Candelaria, Quezon in 1946, and recently in Sorsogon. Panganib an s aid t he cor p orat ion de cide d to expand its operations in Mind anao fol low ing improved peace and order conditions and the scarce supply of coconut in Quezon and the Bicol Region. “On Monday (March 1), the Mindanao Development Aut hor it y me t w it h Misamis Occidental Rep. Diego Ty, officials of Peter Paul Philippines, and stakeholders to come up with a plan on how to ensure stable coconut supply for the facility,” Piñol said. MinDA will link up coconut farmers associations and cooperatives in Northern Mi n d an a o, Z amb o ang a Peninsula, and the Bangsamoro Region with the new facility, he added. (PNA)

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FRI-SAT|MARCH 5-6, 2021