Manila Standard - 2017 May 04 - Thursday by Manila Standard

AIDS ADVOCATE. Miss Universe 2015 Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach has been appointed as the United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS or UNAIDS Goodwill Ambassador for Asia and the Paciﬁc. Wurtzbach is involved in humanitarian affairs and very vocal in her advocacy to spread awareness and the stigma on HIV and AIDS. Malacañang Photo

Another title for Pia: UN envoy of goodwill By Rio N. Araja and Herand Kezia Pandaan MISS Universe 2015 Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach has been appointed as the United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS or UNAIDS Goodwill Ambassador for Asia and the Paciﬁc. “Knowledge is power. Knowledge is cool and I want young people to know the facts and stand up against human immunodeﬁciency virus,” Wurtzbach said. “I am honored that UNAIDS has given me a great platform to speak up for the AIDS movement, a cause which is close to my heart.” Wurtzbach is involved in humanitarian affairs and very vocal in her advocacy to

spread awareness of the stigma on HIV and AIDS. She is also a staunch supporter of HIV/ AIDS patients and the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community. As goodwill ambassador, Wurtzbach will not just raise awareness among the millennials but will also campaign for zero discrimination. “I am a messenger. I will use my voice to spread awareness through the huge number of people that are following me in social media,” Wurtzbach said. “That is what I would like to use. We get our information from social media and with the young people following me, I am doing my part in spreading awareness.” Next page

Congress boots out Gina Lopez By Joel E. Zurbano and Maricel V. Cruz

HE Commission on Appointments on Wednesday rejected the appointment of Department of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Regina Lopez, ending a bitter tug-of-war over President Rodrigo Duterte’s controversial choice for the position.

VOL. XXXI • NO. 79 • 4 SECTIONS 20 PAGES • P18 • THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017 • www.manilastandard.net • editorial@thestandard.com.ph

Sotto cracks family joke, triggers uproar By Joel E. Zurbano “WE RESPECT all kinds of families, and that includes solo parents.” This was the calm response of Social Welfare Secretary Judy Taguiwalo to Senator Vicente Sotto III, who made an off-color joke about her being a single parent during a hearing of the Commis-

sion on Appointments. “Just on the lighter side, Senator [Franklin] Drilon and I were looking at the personal information about you and you have two children, are they daughters or sons? But you’re single?” asked Sotto when Taguiwalo presented her case before the members of the Commission on Appointments.

Taguiwalo replied and told Sotto, a comedian-turned-politician, that she has two daughters. “My life has never been a normal one. I’ve never had a whole ‘mother-fatherchildren’ kind of thing except when I was growing up in Bacolod,” Taguiwalo said. “I graduated from UP in 1970, I did

“She [Lopez] is no longer secretary, unfortunately, from the moment we banged the gavel,” said Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III. Pimentel said he could not cast a vote in Lopez’s favor because as chairman of the CA, he can only vote if there is a tie. He said Lopez could be appointed to another position, then added: “What’s the point?” Lopez became the second Cabinet secretary under the Duterte administration to be rejected by the commission. The ﬁrst was Foreign Affairs Secretary Perfecto Yasay Jr., who was turned down over questions of his citizenship. Lopez’s rejection came despite strong support for her from Duterte, who had threatened to shut down the mining industry completely if the CA turned down her appointment. “If you want to be conﬁrmed, don’t go

against big business!” an angry Lopez shouted during a long press conference after the ruling. “It’s wrong when lawmakers don’t stand up for the rights of every Filipino, but rather big business. It’s really very wrong.” With the Philippines being the world’s biggest supplier of nickel ore and a major source of copper, Lopez’s campaign had affected global commodity prices. Lopez had sought to shut down 28 of the nation’s 40 mines and cancel the contracts of dozens of others. Last week she also announced the ban on open-pit mining, which would have sounded the death knell for one of the world’s biggest planned copper projects in the south of the country. Senators belonging to the Liberal Party led by Senator Franklin Drilon voted in favor of Lopez’s conﬁrmation. Next page

Reds’ integrity in question DENR chief By John Paolo Bencito rapped for and F. Pearl A. Gajunera ‘extortion’ THE government’s peace negotiators on Wednesday questioned the sincerity of communist rebels seeking peace talks with the government, saying that recent attacks by their armed wing, the New People’s Army, resulted in calls for the government to drop the negotiations and pursue allout war. While Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza said the ﬁfth round of talks with the communists would push through in The Netherlands from May 27 to June 1, he said he was dismayed by the NPA attacks. “Although a bilateral ceaseﬁre is not yet in place, the public’s common reaction to these incidents questions the sincerity of those with whom we talk and deal

Cebu grad tops Bar exams By Rey E. Requejo A TOTAL of 3,747 out of the 6,344 examinees passed the 2016 Bar examinations, an ofﬁcial said Wednesday. But the results were unprecedented in the history of the Philippine Bar exams because “not a single Metro Manila-based school placed in the top 10 and a law graduate from the University of San Carlos in Cebu topped the tests for aspiring lawyers. Associate Justice Presbitero J. Velasco Jr., chairman of the Supreme Court Committee on the 2016 Bar Examinations, said the Next page

with across the table. The public also questions their capacity to manage and control their forces on the ground,” Dureza said in a statement. “There are even calls now to stop the talks altogether and pursue an all-out military offensive against their armed groups,” he added. Dureza said the recent NPA attacks will not deter the government from pursuing the peace negotiations with Communist Party of the Philippines and its political arm, the National Democratic Front. “We, who are tasked to seek a peaceful and principled settlement must pursue, with more vigor, these peace engagements with the communist rebels. Our expectation is that our unrelenting efforts in addressing the issues, bridging the ideological divide Next page

SUBMITTED, YOUR HONOR. An unidentiﬁed

girlfriend of a successful bar examinee—one of 3,747 bar passers out of 6,344 examinees—holds a placard in front of the Supreme Court building Wednesday proclaiming to the world what may well be a notarized sworn statement. Norman Cruz

By Rio N. Araja A MINING company on Wednesday filed a graft complaint against outgoing Environment Secretary Regina Lopez, whose appointment was rejected by the Commission on Appointments. In a complaint filed with the Office of the Ombudsman, Citinickel Mines Development Corp. accused Lopez of trying to extort P130 million for the benefit of a non-government organization she controls. CMDC officials alleged that Lopez used her position to im- SWAN SONG. Rejected Environment Secretary Regina Lopez raises her arms as she sings ‘I Believe I Can Fly’ during pose additional requirements a news conference Wednesday at the Senate after the powerful Commission on Appointments nixed her appointNext page ment to the DENR post. AFP

ERC’s Salazar suspended By John Paolo Bencito MALACAÑANG on Wednesday placed Energy Regulatory Commission Chairman Jose Vicente Salazar under a 90-day preventive suspension following reports of rampant corruption in the agency. Salazar, who was among the ofﬁcials asked earlier to resign by President Rodrigo Duterte, will

be investigated amid allegations of graft and price ﬁxing following the death of ERC Bids and Awards Committee chairman Francisco Villa on Nov. 9. “Examination of the records showed that there is a prima facie case against Chairman Salazar on the above stated charges. Moreover, this Ofﬁce has personal Next page

Tadeco-Bucor deal voided By Rio N. Araja THE Commission on Audit’s special team has recommended the dissolution of a joint venture agreement between the Bureau of Corrections and Tagum Agricultural Development Co. for violation of the constitutional limits on

leasable areas. In its April 25 Audit Observation Memorandum No. 2017013 submitted to BuCor director general Benjamin delos Santos, the auditors, led by Joseﬁna Gonzales and supervising auditor Flordeliza Ares, said the deal was Next page

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DENR... From A1

on them after she froze their ore shipments. These requirements, CMDC argued, were not only unreasonable, but unlawful as well since they do not have any legal basis and go beyond the mandate of the DENR. Charges of violation of the AntiGraft and Corrupt Practices Act, Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees and Red Tape Act of 2007, and illegal exaction have been filed against Lopez before the Ombudsman. Through its legal counsel Lorna Kapunan, CMDC said Lopez not only disregarded their duly-entered 25-year mineral production sharing agreement (MPSA) with the DENR when she ordered their suspension, she also threw in hindrances that effectively scuttled the MPSA. “Secretary Lopez is not only unaware of the limits of [her] office; she likewise displays a propensity to be a tyrant that cannot be reasoned out with. She imposes restrictions without regards to the law and the property rights of the public which she serves,” the complaint said. At a news conference, Kapunan said when Lopez ordered the suspension of CMDC in July 2016, the mining firm filed for a mineral ore export permit with the DENR’s Mines and Geosciences Bureau in a bid to remove and transport its stockpile of ores from the area “so as not to endanger the environment.” The MGB granted CMDC’s permit in November 2016, but Lopez issued a memorandum last Jan. 30 and imposed a P2-million payment into a trust fund per hectare of disturbed land. “In this case, it cannot be denied that Secretary Lopez’s actions against CMDC are characterized by grave misconduct and negligence, owing to a blind disregard for existing rules just so she can satisfy her pre-existing bias against the mining industry. Secretary Lopez has failed to the utmost degree to properly balance the interests of the interested parties and stubbornly disregard CMDC’s right to due process,” the complaint read. Kapunan said Lopez’s new trust fund is “superfluous” because the mining firm is already covered by two trust funds set under the Mining Act. Things became worse when Lopez, through Undersecretary Philip Camara, imposed another requirement for the mineral ore export permit, a P130-million performance bond, Kapunan added. The DENR directed the company to deposit the money to account of the Espanola Community Administration Services Inc. for the financing of the green economy transitioning area development plan and program for the towns of Narra and Espanola in Palawan, the complaint stated.

Another... From A1 The director of UNAIDS Regional Support Team for Asia and the Pacific, Steve Kraus, is confident Wurtzbach will play a pivotal role to help lower the incidence of HIV and AIDS. “First, get yourself tested, know your status,” Wurtzbach said. “There are organizations that offer the test for free. You don’t need to show us your results. Then, if necessary, get yourself treated.” In Asia and the Pacific, the new infections dropped by five percent among people of all ages between 2010 and 2015. In 2015, young people accounted for 37 percent of new HIV infections.

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3,747 takers who passed the 2016 Bar Exams constituted 59.06 percent of the total examinees. The figure and percentage are higher than the 26.21 percent (1,731 out of 6,605) of the examinees who passed the 2015 Bar examinations, Velasco said. Bar topnotcher Karen Mae Calam said she did not expect to top the exams but admitted she studied hard for what many regard as the toughest tests in the country. Calam, who is working with the accounting firm SGV&Co, said she was on her way to the Bureau of Internal Revenue when one of her officemates informed her of the results of the tests. “Initially I didn’t believe it, but when my officemates started calling and congratulating me, only then did I tell myself that it was true,” Calam said in a television interview. Velasco said the oath-taking of the successful examinees will be held at 3 p.m. on May 22 at the Mall of Asia Arena. Registration will start at 11 in the morning. Bar Confidant Christina Layusa said passers may secure their clearances from the Office of the Bar Confidant on May 8 up to May 21,

SWS: Hunger rate slides By John Paolo Bencito

HE number of Filipinos who said they experienced involuntary hunger went down a bit in the latest survey of Social Weather Stations. The results of the polling firm’s survey in the first quarter this year showed that 11.9 percent or 2.7 million households did not have enough food against 13.9 percent or 3.1 million families in the last quarter last year. The survey was conducted among 1,200 respondents.

The quarterly hunger rate fell by 3.9 points among the self-rated poor to 17.1 percent, while some 4.2 points were recorded as a decline in the hunger rate among the self-rated food-poor to 20.7 percent in the first quarter. Those who said they experienced moderate hunger likewise

dropped by 1.2 points in the first quarter to 9.7 percent or an estimated 2.2 million households from the previous survey’s 10.9 percent, while severe hunger logged a 0.8-point decline to 2.2 percent or an estimated 510,000 households. The same survey also bared a drop in the hunger rate in Metro Manila and the other regions except in Mindanao, where it rose by 1.7 points to 11.7 percent. Moderate hunger in the country rose by 0.4 point to 9.3 percent. Severe hunger surged by 2.0 points in Mindanao to 2.3 percent from the record-low 0.3 percent, the highest reading since December 2015.

In Metro Manila, the hunger rate overall fell by 1.0 point to 12 percent, while moderate hunger there rose 2.0 points to 10 percent while severe hunger fell by 3 points to 2 percent. In Balance Luzon, the hunger rate registered at 11.3 percent, down 3.7 points from the last survey. In terms of degree, both severe and moderate hunger in that region fell to 2.3 percent and 9 percent, respectively. The hunger rate fell by 3.0 points in the Visayas to 13.7 percent, while moderate hunger dropped by 2.3 points to 11.7 percent. Severe hunger sank 0.7 point to 2 percent.

Presidential Spokesman Ernesto Abella said the survey results “affirms the Duterte administration’s poverty alleviation efforts, which are beginning to make a positive impact on those inhabiting the lowest rung of society.” “Our long-term goal, however, is to better the lives of Filipinos through the effective delivery of goods and services like higher infrastructure investments and the promotion of easy access microfinancing system,” Abella said. The latest survey was conducted from March 25 to 28 and had a sampling error margin of ±3 points for the national percentages.

production sharing agreements, and her misuse of public funds. “The issue here is not the mining industry. The issue is whether or not Lopez is the right person to head the DENR,” the chamber said in a statement. “Is she competent to lead the DENR? Does she have the experience, education, impartiality and temperament to accomplish the department’s objectives? To all these questions, we say no, no and no.” Other mining firms denounced Lopez’s pronouncement that the mining companies who were ordered closed were irresponsible and destroying the environment. “Our member companies contribute much of the nation’s exports into the global market, as such, we strictly adhered to the standards of responsible and sustainable mining,” said Clarence Pimentel Jr., president of Philippine Nickel Industry Association. “We take at face value secretarydesignate Lopez’s supposed passion for the environment. However, passion needs to be balanced by fairness; her obsessive crusade of allegedly protecting the environment has resulted in an infringement, if not a downright disregard, of our constitutionality protected rights of due process and equal protection of the laws,” he said. The Palace said Duterte was already finding a new Environment secretary. Presidential Spokesman Ernesto Abella expressed “deep concern that the CA has seen fit to reject her appointment. On the other hand, it’s a democratic process and we respect their decision.” The Chamber of Mines welcomed news of Lopez’s rejection. “The Chamber is thankful to the Commission for the speedy resolution of Ms. Lopez’s nomination. This is not the end, but rather the beginning of a new chapter for the mining industy,” said the chamber’s vice president for legal affairs, Ronald Recidoro. Recidoro assured the public that the mining industry will continue to work with the government to protect the environment. “We will have to work doubly hard to uplift the industry. We reiterate our commitment to work with the DENR and the next secretary to protect the environment and promote the responsible use of our natural resources,” said Recidoro. Finance Undersecretary Bayani

Agabin, meanwhile, said a review by the Mining Industry Coordinating Council (MICC) of Lopez’s decision to shut down 23 mining companies and suspend five others would continue regardless of the CA’s decision. “Definitely, it will continue because it’s the mandate of the MICC to do just that regardless who’s in the DENR,” Agabin said, referring to the mining review. “We will still continue the review.” Lopez had earlier sought to have the MICC review suspended, even as Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said she had not followed due process in ordering the closure of the mining companies. In Cagayan de Oro, local officials and mining industry players also welcomed news of Lopez’s rejection, while her allies slammed the outcome of the CA vote, including environmental groups. The mood was festive, however, among local officials and industry players. Surigao del Sur Gov. Vicente Pimentel said he was elated with the disapproval of Lopez’s appointment. “We can now finally return to a stable regulatory environment with her gone. In her stint in office, Ms. Lopez did a horrible job because she refused to follow existing laws and instead, let her biases define her leadership,” Pimentel said. “She will surely not be missed,” the governor added. Dulmar M. Raagas, president of the Chamber of Mines-Caraga, Inc. (CMCRI), said their group welcomed Lopez’s rejection. “While we sought to work with Ms Lopez in her one year in office, she has constantly avoided forging a constructive relationship with the mining sector,” Raagas said. “Instead, she showed her deeply ingrained biases against mining, even responsible ones.” He added: “With her departure from the department, we anticipate that the investment climate will finally clear up, and investors will resume pouring in money for the Caraga mining industry.” Surigao del Norte Provincial Board Member Fernando Larong said he and his colleagues can now “heave a monster sigh of relief and applaud the members of the CA who voted our way.” With John Paolo Bencito, Anna Leah E. Gonzales, Julito G. Rada and Lance Baconguis

and ﬁnding a common ground may eventually pay off and bring about just, sustainable and enduring peace in the land.” In Davao City, the NPA apologized to the ﬁsh vendor who was injured

when a makeshit bomb exploded during an “offensive operation” against government troops. In a statement, National Democratic Front of the PhilippinesSouthern Mindanao Region spokesperson Rubi del Mundo said the regional council of NDFP-SMR ordered the indemniﬁcation of Larry Timbal Buenafe.

“The NDF-SMR deeply apologizes to the family of Mr. Buenafe and to the public for this occurrence,” Del Mundo’s statement said. Earlier, Vice Mayor Paolo Duterte and the city council of Davao slammed the NPA for the blast that wounded Buenafe, who is now fighting for his life in the hospital.

Alvarez earlier asked the Solicitor General to conduct a review of the deal even as he said the government had lost over P13 billion in the allegedly anomalous contract. Tadeco’s land lease had exceeded the limit because it covered 5,308.36 hectares of the Davao Prison and Penal Farm after its extension for another 25 years on May 21, 2003. The same observations were noted on the parallel review of the original Bucor-Tadeco agreement on Dec. 26, 1969, under Section 2, Article 12 of the 1935 Constitution. Under the provision, the audit team noted “no private corporation or association may acquire, lease or hold public agricultural lands in excess of 1,024 has.” Tadeco, however, was allowed access and use of 3,000 hectares of the penal colony. “What is obvious is the exces-

sive holding of agricultural land by Tadeco, which under the May 21, 2003 JVA consisted of 5,308.36 has. This being so, the JVA is unconstitutional,” the audit read. “We recommend that management take appropriate action for the cancellation of the May 21, 2003 JVA or make representation with Tadeco for the amendment thereof to confirm to the provision of Section 3, Article XII of the 1987 Constitution.” The audit team said even if there were only two agreements signed between Tadeco and Bucor in 1969 and 2003, the details of the deals were changed several times, which resulted in the continued increase of Tadeco’s cultivated lands. Under the 1969 agreement, BuCor was guaranteed rent of P250 per hectare per year of the 3,000-hectare land planted to bananas.

The government was supposed to receive a 10-percent share of the proﬁt before taxes. A tweaking of the agreement on July 10, 1973 omitted the government share in income, while Tadeco’s leased area was increased by another 1,000 hectares to encompass 4,000 hectares of the penal farm. In October 1974, Tadeco added another 500 hectares for grain crops and another 500 hectares for banana crops. A proﬁt-sharing clause was inserted for the production of grain at P0.003 to P0.018 per kilo depending on the level of production. In 1979, the rent per hectare was increased from P250 to P275. The Davao penal farm is located in Panabo City, Davao del Norte, with a land area of 30,000 hectares and a prison reservation of 8,000 hectares. With Maricel V.Cruz

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FRIENDLY CALL. President Rodrigo Duterte speaks with Peoples

Republic of China President Xi Jinping on the phone for about 20 minutes on May 3, 2017. Duterte and Xi discussed bilateral ties and regional cooperation, a senior official told the Manila Standard. Both leaders also agreed to meet sometime this month for another bilateral meeting during Duterte’s visit to Beijing. Duterte thanked the Chinese government for inviting him to tour the People’s Liberation Army Navy Flagship Destroyer ‘Chang Chun’ which docked at the Sasa Port in Davao City early this week for a goodwill visit. Presidential Photo

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organizing work. From 1972 up to the 1986, it has been a life underground or in prison. So, my story would be different from the stories of those who have gone through corporation, etc.” she added. Sotto then joked: “In the street language, when you have children and you are single, ang tawag lang ay naano lang.” “Thank you, you have my 100 percent support, Madam Secretary,” Sotto said. Taguiwalo then told Sotto “I teach women’s studies in UP [University of the Philippines] so we respect all kinds of families, and that includes solo parents.” Social media users denounced Sotto’s joke, saying they found the remark insulting and degrading to single parents. “This is not a comedy show. You do not embarrass a woman for being a single mother to get laughs, Shame on you, Tito Sotto, shame on you,” said @TheCurious on her Twitter account. Another social media user, Miss France Sajorda, said :”Respect and love to all the single mothers and mga “na-ano” out there who raised

2017 from 8 in the morning. “This was the ﬁrst time that not a single Metro Manila school placed in the top 10,” Layusa said. University of San Carlos had four graduates in the top 10 while Silliman University had three. Alanna Gayle Ashley Khio from Silliman University took second place with a rating of 88.95 percent. Fiona Cristy D. Lao of the University of San Carlos and Athalia B. Liong of Andres Bonifacio College shared third place with a rating of 88.8 percent. Allana Mae A. Babayen-On of University of San Agustin took fourth place with a rating of 88.75 percent followed by Justin Ryan D. Morilla of Ateneo de Davao University with a rating of 88.4 percent. Taking the sixth place was Mark Dave M. Camarao of Northwestern University with a rating of 88.1 percent, while Anne Margaret E. Momongan of the University of San Carlos landed on seventh place. Jefferson L. Gomez of the University of San Carlos landed in ninth place along with Nia Rachelle M. Gonzales of University of Batangas with a rating of 87.7 percent. Marie Chielo H. Ybio of Silliman University with rating of 87.5 percent and Andrew Stephen D. Liu of Silliman University with a rating of 87.45 percent took the ninth and 10th place, respectively.

kids million times more decent than that Tito Sotto.” “I just can’t imagine a person like Tito Sotto is in the Senate laughing and poking fun [at] solo parents. Napaka perfect ng pamilya nyo po,” said @Oreo also on Twitter. Members of the CA decided to defer Taguiwalo’s conﬁrmation after she was questioned about her links to the communist party, and scheduled the next hearing next week. President Rodrigo Duterte appointed Taguiwalo as DSWD secretary in June 2016. The Gabriela Women’s Party took offense with Sotto’s remarks. “The senator clearly went out of bounds, insinuating malice at Taguiwalo who raised her two children as a solo parent, dubbing such as na-ano. “Solo parents, including the DSWD secretary should in no way be at the receiving end of such insults. We demand a public apology from the senator,” the group said in a statement. Sotto said he was sorry if his remarks offended some people, but said his critics apparently did not get the joke. “As I said, it was made it as a joke. And everybody in the hall, almost everybody laughed,” he noted. Sotto said some of his critics were “perhaps overly sensitive.”

Tadeco-Bucor... From A1

not in compliance with Section 3 of Article 12 of the Constitution. “Alienable lands of the public domain shall be limited to agricultural lands,” Section 3 says. “ P r i vate corporations or associations may not hold such alienable lands of the public domain except by lease, for a period not exceeding 25 years, renewable for not more than 25 years, and not to exceed 1,000 hectares in area.” Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez welcomed CoA’s recommendation. “This is a welcome development for the beneﬁt of the people. These government agencies are doing their job,” said Alvarez who sought a congressional inquiry into the 25year BOC-Tadeco lease contract.

“The Liberal Party as a bloc voted to confirm the appointment of Secretary Lopez. Unfortunately, we lost in the vote,” said Drilon, who noted that she can no longer be reappointed as Environment secretary. Drilon said the LP would have wanted to see Lopez carry out her programs. “But it’s a democracy and that’s our system,” he said. Senator Manny Pacquiao, who chairs the CA’s committee on environment and natural resources, read the recommendation to reject Lopez’s appointment, which was later adopted on the floor. Senators Vicente Sotto III, Francis Pangilinan, Joel Villanueva, Loren Legarda and Joseph Victor Ejercito said they voted in favor of Lopez’s confirmation. “It’s a collegial decision to reject her,” Isabela Rep. Rodolfo Albano III, majority leader for the House contingent’s CA, said. Lopez came under fire after she ordered the closure of mining companies, which displaced thousands of workers, who suffered financial hardship and had trouble finding new jobs. In Sta. Cruz, Zambales alone, close to 6,000 mine workers have been displaced since July 2016 when Lopez suspended four of the biggest nickel mining operations in the area. Lopez has ordered the closure of several mining firms across the country based on audit findings that the mining industry has questioned. Chamber of Mines chairman Artemio Disini said mining companies are losing billions of pesos in revenues because of the suspension of mining operations. He had warned that if Lopez were confirmed, the mining industry would be shut down, costing the country at least $4 billion in annual revenues and causing hardships for millions of mine workers and their dependents. The Chamber of Mines opposed Lopez’s confirmation, saying she had shown herself unfit and unqualified to be the government’s lead regulator in natural resource development. They cited her ignorance of the law, her inability to balance her work as a secretary and her biases against the mining industry, her readiness to expose the government to massive financial liabilities after she canceled

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knowledge of Chairman Salazar’s act of unilaterally designating an OIC to perform the functions of his post during his absence despite the earlier designation made by this ofﬁce,” the order by Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, issued May 2, 2017 read.

Medialdea said that the “foregoing charges against Chairman Salazar are punishable with removal from service.” The administrative charges to be filed against Salazar include: Serious dishonesty, gross neglect of duty and grave misconduct on violation of RA 3019 (Anti Graft And Corrupt Practices Act) for the renewal of seven Electric Power Purchase Agreements (EPPA) between FDC Utilities and various distribution utilities;

and grave misconduct and gross insubordination for defiance of the Office of the Executive Secretary’s designation of ERC Commissioner Geronimo Sta. Ana. Villa’s sister, broadcaster Rosario Sofia “Charie” Villa said that her brother was allegedly pressured by Salazar to approve procurement contracts and hiring consultants and other bidding procedures. Francisco Villa later killed himself.

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UNCLAIMED CARDS.

An election assistant II staff of the Manila District of the Commission on Elections arranges 12,000 unclaimed registered voters’ identification cards. The Comelec, the government’s election watchdog, announced that registered voters may now get their IDs from the office of the election officers in their town or city where they are registered. Norman Cruz

IN BRIEF Airport police nab 6 Salisi gang members MANILA International Airport Authority general manager Ed Monreal on Wednesday ordered the Airport Police Department personnel to go on high alert against unscrupulous individuals who prey on air travelers, especially returning Filipino workers, from abroad who will spend summer vacation with their families. On Tuesday, operatives of the APD Intelligence and Detection Section arrested six persons, believed to be members of the Salisi Gang, who the authorities claimed, resumed their operation at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport terminals. In a report submitted to Monreal, Airport Police chief Romeo Labador said his men apprehended the suspects—Noimie Javier, Gerry Alegre, Estela Ramirez, Joy Vinto, Ben Santos and Joseph Reyes—along MIA Road near Terminal 2 around 12:50 pm. Labador said the group was initially observed acting suspiciously at the public area of Terminal 2 arrival. He added one of the APD men approached a Japanese national sitting at the waiting area and discovered that he nearly got victimized by the group. Joel Zurbano

House panel OKs Duterte tax measure THE House committee on ways and means on Wednesday approved the proposed Comprehensive Tax Reform Package of the Duterte administration by a 17-4 vote. But some lawmakers were worried about the decision of the panel, chaired by Quirino Rep. Dakila Cua, to pass House Bill 4774 that seeks to lower personal income taxes but increase taxes on petroleum and other products to offset the revenue losses of the government. Oppositors to the measure said the proposal might result in an increase in prices of basic goods amd commodities. But Cua defended the proposal, saying it is expected to generate P206.8 billion in revenues once enacted. Cua said the Department of Finance’s decision to spread out the proposed P6 a liter to increase oil excise tax into three tranches of P3, P2 and P1 in the ﬁrst three years would lighten the burden on the riding public. The measure imposes the following tax rates: Leaded premium gasoline, per liter of volume capacity, from P5.35 to P7 in 2017, P9 in 2018 and P10 in 2019; unleaded premium gasoline, per liter of volume capacity, from P4.35 to P7 in 2017, P9 in 2018 and P10 in 2019. Maricel Cruz

DoJ chief asks BIR: Probe Atong Ang’s tax liability By Rey E. Requejo

JUSTICE Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II has formally asked the Bureau of Internal Revenue to investigate controversial Filipino-Chinese gambling operator Charlie “Atong” Ang and his company Meridien Vista Gaming Corp. for possible tax violations. In a letter dated May 2, Aguirre asked BIR Commissioner Cesar Dulay to look into the matter, saying his ofﬁce had the authority to do so in cases where the Tax Code might have been possibly violated. “Pursuant to the provisions of the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997, as amended, the Department is hereby seeking the assistance of the BIR, as the administrator of the supervisory and police power conferred by the NIRC and other laws as well as within the

powers conferred to the Commissioner of Internal Revenue to initiate investigations for possible violations of the country’s tax laws of Mr. Charlie Ang and Meridien Vista Gaming Corp.,” Aguirre said in his letter to Dulay. “I trust that greater cooperation and conﬁdence between the Department of Justice and the BIR will be forthcoming in our government’s efforts to curb corruption and criminality in the country, particularly in cases of

tax evasion,” the Justice secretary stressed. Aguirre earlier said Ang was running a gambling business through his company without paying taxes to the government and that Meridien also lacked a franchise to operate as a Small Town Lottery unit by the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Ofﬁce. The DoJ chief earlier ordered the National Bureau of Investigation to investigate and conduct a case buildup against Ang on his accusation he and National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon were planning to kill him. Ang has accused Aguirre of wanting to eliminate him so his brother, Engineer Ogie Aguirre, will have unhampered control of STL operations from Batangas to the Bicol region. He also claimed the PCSO wanted Meridien stopped because of conﬂicts with the STL operations.

Lawyer urges DILG chief to resign By Rey Requejo A PETITIONER-LAWYER has challenged Interior department officer-in-charge Catalino Cuy to resign for going against a directive of President Rodrigo Duterte on an allegedly anomalous and overpriced fire truck deal with an Austrian firm. This is the same questionable supply contract that cost the job of his predecessor, former Interior secretary Ismael Sueno. Leo Romero, counsel in an earlier petition before the Supreme Court questioning the sup-

ply contract with Rosenbauer International AG, accused Cuy of countermanding the President’s position in announcing the supply agreement was a “perfected government-to-government contract.” Romero also slammed Cuy for denying their repeated requests for copies of documents surrounding the supply contract for the Rosenbauer TLF 4000 ﬁre trucks. “With these ignoble and unpardonable actions...the most honorable thing to do at this point is to resign from your ofﬁce. That is, if the word honor-

able means anything to you at this point in your life,” he said in his letter to the DILG ofﬁcial. Copies of the letter were also furnished to the President and Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea. “After you have resigned, you can now shout to your heart’s content that President Duterte is unworthy of the trust and conﬁdence reposed by the Filipino people...You have countermanded, contradicted, and disrespectfully placed in the back burner the covenant of President Duterte to the Filipino people,” he said.

WHEN HANDS SPEAK. Senator Francisco Pangilinan (left), a Commission on Appointments member representing the minority, is congratulated by Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III at Wednesday’s session of the Senate. Ey Acasio

Aguirre denied Ang’s claim and, on Wednesday, defended his brother, saying he was not engaged in illegal gambling operations. However, Aguirre conﬁrmed his brother was getting an STL franchise from the PCSO. “My brother is not engaged in any illegal gambling operations. He and his colleagues want to enter as a legal STL franchisee of the PCSO. Unlike Atong Ang, their activity is legal,” Aguirre said in a television interview. He also said the operations of Meridien outside of the Cagayan Economic Zone Authority is illegal due to Executive Order No. 13 (Strengthening the Fight Against Illegal Gambling and Clarifying the Jurisdiction and Authority of Concerned Agencies in the Regulation and Licensing of Gambling and Online Gaming Facilities and Other Purposes) issued by President Rodrigo Duterte last Feb. 2.

Palawan forges pact with Hainan By Rey Requejo HAINAN, China—The ongoing diplomatic skirmishes between Manila and Beijing over the disputed islands in the South China Sea did not stop the Palawan provincial government from warming up relations with China’s southernmost province of Hainan. Hainan has administrative jurisdiction over the disputed waters, part of which are also being claimed by the Philippines. Dai Zhen, deputy directorgeneral of the Foreign and Overseas Chinese Affairs Office of Hainan Province, told a delegation of Filipino journalists invited by the China Embassy in Manila to a six-day trip to Guangdong and Hainan provinces that Palawan Gov. Jose Alvarez had entered into a sisterhood agreement with this province during his official visit last March 24. Dai said the sisterhood aimed to strengthen the bilateral relations between Palawan and Hainan, particularly on promoting and stimulating the economic growth and development of the two local government units in the area of trade and commerce, agriculture, marine fishery, tourism, education and culture and people-topeople friendly exchanges. The foreign affairs official revealed Alvarez visited Hainan two months ago to sign the sisterhood pact with Hainan government to firm up the solidarity of the two provinces. “Hainan has established relationship . . . with Palawan only this March this year,” Dai said. “We sincerely hope that Hainan can conduct cooperation with the Philippines in trade and commerce, agriculture, tourism, education and culture, and people-to-people exchanges.” “Although Hainan is a young province, we have cumulative experience in developing Hainan, so in this aspect I can say that Hainan and the Philippines can learn from each other,” the foreign affairs official stressed.

Opinion

THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Adelle Chua, Editor

EDITORIAL

Sotto has our 100% revulsion

ITO Sotto the senator keeps outdoing himself.

During the Commission on Appointments’ conﬁrmation hearing Wednesday for Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Judy Taguiwalo, Sotto said something so objectionable it made us retch. He was reading through Taguiwalo’s information sheet and noted that she had two children despite the fact that she did not have a spouse. The secretary said her life had never been normal. She was de-

tained and then joined the underground movement. Horrors, Sotto, who as commission member decides the fitness and the fate of appointed Executive officials, said: “in the street language, when you have children and you are single, ang tawag lang ay na-ano lang.” Non-Tagalog speakers might be confounded, but everybody else knows “ano” is a euphemism for the sex act, with the modifier “lang” diminishing the stature of the woman supposedly on the receiving end of it. The secretary, maintaining her composure despite Sotto’s boorish comment, said that she teaches women’s studies at the

University of the Philippines and that they respect all kinds of families, including singleparent ones. A confirmation hearing is supposed to showcase the qualifications and experience of the Executive official being considered. In this case, we were reminded instead of how a comedian made his way into local government, and then to the Upper House of Congress. Alas, Sotto is not there due to his moral fitness or stellar intellect—even as he tries to apply such standards to the people he deems fit or unfit for public office —but to sheer popularity and mass appeal.

Sotto has made numerous incendiary statements in the past, all borne out of his moral posturing. He was, for instance, staunchly against the reproductive health bill and did everything within his means to stop its passage, then sought to subvert it after the law was passed. He did everything to show us the measure was the handiwork of evil, going to the extent of unabashedly copying the words of others and passing them off as his own arguments. Sotto’s latest caper, while infuriating, is hardly surprising. Did we even think he could ever rise above his hypocrisy, his habit of disrespecting wom-

en and making light of the notso-conventional predicament of many? Some groups are demanding an apology from the senator for his remarks. We say this is futile. He will never apologize. He will never even acknowledge there was anything wrong in what he said. This is the way he is wired—something that gets reinforced every time he wins an election. This can be gleaned from his patronizing words to Taguiwalo: “Thank you, you have my 100 percent support, Madam Secretary,” he said. And toward you, Mr. Senator, you have our 100 percent revulsion. DUTY CALLS FLORENCIO FIANZA

English Speaking

What doomed Gina LOWDOWN

JOJO A. ROBLES ULTIMATELY, what doomed Gina Lopez’s conﬁrmation bid in Congress was her failure to understand what her real job was as environment and natural resources secretary. She wanted to continue being a one-dimensional environmental campaigner when she should have been balancing the interests of all stakeholders; her job demanded that she play referee, but she wanted to be a partisan. I’ve always believed that there is room for someone like Lopez in the government, but not as secretary of DENR. An environmental crusader like her belongs in an independent state watchdog outﬁt patterned after the US Environmental Protection Agency, something that we

don’t have, unfortunately. The basic flaw in the DENR’s structure, which was incidentally exposed during Lopez’s confirmation hearings, is that the department has a split personality: It is in charge of exploiting our natural resources for the benefit of the people and to earn revenues for government, and yet it is also the regulator of this state-allowed exploitation. The DENR gives permits for mining companies, for example. But it is also in charge of auditing them and making them comply with environmental protection standards. This is an untenable situation. The ideal set up should let the DENR and its attached agencies continue their work of accepting and approving permits for mining and other exploitative industries. And then, an EPA-like bureaucracy monitors compliance

those who wantonly destroy the environment and plunder our natural resources. But that still doesn’t give Lopez the license to swing the pendulum back completely the other way; she should have addressed the problem of the regulator also being the permit-giver, of the bureaucracy that makes the rules also making sure that the rules are followed. I’m sure we I agree with those who say that someone as passionate as Lopez have not heard about the protection of the enthe last of Gina vironment was needed to shake up the DENR. But Lopez should Lopez, even if she have realized that the present sitis no longer in uation at the department needed structural change more than just government. mine closures. That she failed to appreciate this doomed her short stint as DENR secretary. Perhaps her In the past, of course, DENR replacement will understand the has been accused of favoring job better. the mining companies and other big businessmen, including *** based on accepted environmental standards. Something like a Commission on Audit for the environment that will have oversight functions over the use of our country’s natural resources, from our forests to our ﬁshing grounds to our minerals.

Which brings us to the question of Lopez’s tactics. Because Lopez did not understand her job fully, she also failed to realize that she could have been less confrontational, the better to get the work she set out to do done. I’m not saying she shouldn’t have audited the mining companies and shut down those that were non-compliant—far from it. What I’m saying is that if Lopez did what she did with a minimum of the unnecessary noise that she created, inside and outside the bureaucracy she was assigned to head up, she probably would have been confirmed. But Lopez tried to be the Rodrigo Duterte of the DENR, minus the foul language (although she did get caught on record calling out a pesky newspaper reporter to her face for being such a “f— ing employee”). Given that Congress and the

ABOUT three weeks ago, former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and now Representative of the Third District of Pampanga, filed a bill mandating the use of English as the medium of instruction in our schools. This is the fourth such bill filed in the House of Representatives about the subject. House bills 230, 305, and 406 have been languishing in the House all these years without any action. Hopefully with the stature of Representative Arroyo as a former president this bill will get the needed attention. As president, Mrs. Arroyo issued an executive order sometime in 2003 about the same subject matter. Not surprisingly, it was challenged in the Supreme Court. It would appear therefore that she still feels very strongly about the importance and necessity of enhancing the ability of Filipinos to be able to communicate in English. Surprisingly, there has been no reaction so far from Filipino language advocates questioning the necessity of the bill as they did with Executive Order No. 210 that Rep. Arroyo issued as president. Has the world changed? It used to be that the matter of which language to use in school was a hotly debated issue. The objections will probably come later especially if the bill gains traction in Congress. It could also be that everyone has come to the realization that in order to be able to compete in the global job market, proficiency in English is definitely a decided advantage. Ever since the introduction of the bilingual education program in 1974, there is this belief that the quality of English taught in our schools have deteriorated especially in public schools. In recent years, however, necessity has forced the nation to go back to English because of our burgeoning outsourcing industry. This is perhaps the reason why the number of Filipinos speaking English have started to go up. Although only over 1.2 billion people out of the estimated 2017 world population of 7.5 billion are considered English speakers, English is the predominant medium of communication in the business world. So, if we Filipinos want to be in the thick of things, we have to upgrade our proficiency in English. If this bill filed by Rep. Arroyo becomes a law, it will go a long in improving the quality of English among our people. It will not happen right away of course but at least the process can start Turn to A5

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Published Monday to Sunday by Philippine Manila Standard Publishing Inc. at 6/F Universal Re Building, 106 Paseo de Roxas, corner Perea St., Legaspi Village, Makati City. Telephone numbers 832-5554, 832-5556, 832-5558 (connecting all departments), (Editorial) 832-5554, (Advertising) 832-5550. P.O. Box 2933, Manila Central Post Ofﬁce, Manila. Website: www.thestandard. com.ph; e-mail: contact@thestandard.com.ph

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Opinion

Only one of the terrorists was killed; the other got away. The cost of that mission? 44 lives. Yes the government gave the families cash, livelihood and other benefits. But those responsible for the killings are still free. The irony is that BS Aquino’s subordinates, then-suspended PNP chief Alan Purisima and SAF chief Getulio Napeñas were both indicted before the Office of the Ombudsman. Not the mastermind of the operation, though. Santa Banana, how in the world can the mastermind be less responsible and accountable than those under him? PresiThey only dent Aquino *** was the comI wonder highlight the gap mander-inwhether evechief at that ryone who ap- between the rich time! pears in the and the poor. This is society pages why I find it of national strange that broadsheets Ombudsman are truly that Conchita rich. In fact, I know some of those Carpio Morales would indict who regularly appear in the so- Purisima and Napenas but not ciety pages. They do not de- President Aquino. Some say serve to be there. I have been Morales is just returning Aquitold that some of these person- no’s favor of appointing her. This is a double tragedy for alities gatecrash political and social events. They get them- the family of the Fallen 44. Earlier this year, President selves invited. The society pages only em- Duterte proposed the creation phasize the “Great Divide” of a so-called Truth Commisthat separates the rich from the sion to find out who was really poor. How people spend their accountable for the deaths of money is no business of mine, the SAF 44. Unfortunately, but they should also consider Duterte changed his mind. the poor. *** The late strongman Ferdinand Marcos banned the proAnother thing that we need liferation of society pages because they do not have any to remember is that Disburseother purpose than to highlight ment Acceleration Program, the stark difference between created by Aquino and his the rich and the poor. And ac- Budget and Management Seccording to a recent survey, retary Butch Abad. Through that program, the more than half of our 106-million population consider them- people’s money was used to impeach and convict then selves poor. I am saying this not because Chief Justice Renato Corona. Again, BS Aquino was not Manila Standard has no society page. I think newspaper indicted. This does not make publishers should get together sense, either. Aquino and Abad and ban society pages once and concocted the DAP. for all. *** In my time, reporters had to *** There were two events dur- conform to what was known as ing the six-year BS Aquino the 5Ws—who, what, when, regime that are still crying out where and why. Through the for accountability and justice. years, however, the term “obOne, the Mamasapano mas- jective reporting” has evolved. sacre. Forty-four members of Information has become globthe Special Action Force of al, primarily because of the Inthe Philippine National Police ternet. Reportage has become were butchered by a combined subjective. President Duterte should be force of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and private rebel aware of this evolution before he complains of biased reporting. groups. HERE’S this column’s list of Businessmen of the Decade, not necessarily in this order: Henry Sy, Sr., Lucio Tan, John Gokongwei, Ramon Ang, Manny Pangilinan, Ricky Razon, Zobel de Ayala brothers, Roberto Ongpin, George Ty and Andrew Tan. I consider them not only nation-builders but heroes in the true sense of the word. They do not have to die by firing squad at Luneta. Still, they make a difference in other people’s lives. I was privileged to know them personally. They have this in common: They know how to pay it forward to those in need.

What... From A4 Commission on Appointments are packed with people connected to the mining industry, Lopez could have done her work of demanding compliance while not giving her opponents any reason to depict her as someone unfit for the job she was seeking confirmation for. What purpose, after all, did pointing out that a CA member’s brother “killed a mountain” serve? Duterte can be removed legally only by impeachment, a long and difficult process. Lopez’s appointment could be rejected by a mere majority vote in a CA that gave every indication that it was sympathetic to the mining industry, which is why she is now out of a job. Whoever is appointed by Duterte to replace Lopez will have his job cut out for him: You can be tough and yet noncombative, a stickler for rules but ready to play nice in order to get the long-term results that you want. I’m sure we have not heard

the last of Gina Lopez, even if she is no longer in government. And when we do, I hope she will have learned valuable lessons from her short, unhappy stint as DENR secretary. *** Speaking of the CA, I think Senator Tito Sotto just ensured the conﬁrmation of Social Welfare Secretary-designate Judy Taguiwalo when he made a tasteless joke more worthy of Eat Bulaga than Congress during yesterday’s hearings. By poking fun at Taguiwalo’s status as a single mother of two young women, Sotto made the DSWD secretary a sympathetic ﬁgure while proving once again that he is often just an insensitive, tasteless comedian. So I guess Sotto’s cheap shot resulted in something good, after all. And because I support Taguiwalo, who is obviously a better, more accomplished person than Sotto ever will be, I’m actually glad the senator lapsed into his default comedian mode.

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The perennial problem of poverty

TO THE POINT EMIL P. JURADO

Society pages should be scrapped

THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017

OVERSIGHT DANILO SUAREZ A RECENT Social Weather Stations survey reported that the percentage of Filipinos who deem themselves poor increased from 44 percent in the fourth quarter of 2016 to 50 percent in the ﬁrst quarter of 2017. The same survey cited that 35 percent or 8.1 million Filipino families are food poor, which is a point higher than the 34 percent, or 7.7 million families in the fourth quarter of 2016. In the past two years, the poverty rate was either steady or declining.

The significant increase of 6 percentage points is a cause for concern. There are many factors that contribute to poverty; among them are lack of gainful employment, opportunities that are available only to those with relevant education and experience, and not enough sources of livelihood, particularly among the rural poor. Given the limited amount of government resources vis-à-vis the number of poor families, public servants should take the initiative to formulate creative, and feasible programs to alleviate poverty. By way of example, the third district of Quezon has a fish hatchery for sea bass, pompano and milkfish. We distribute the fish fingerlings to coconut farmers. This program aims

to provide income for seasonal agricultural earnings, like coconut and copra. Hopefully, these or similar initiatives will be seen nationwide. I am enthused that President Duterte targets to reduce poverty incidence by 25 percent in the next three years. On a statement of Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella, he mentioned that the survey results call for the government’s intensiﬁed response to poverty and increased awareness of the people on the ongoing poverty reduction projects and programs. The National Anti-Poverty Commission recognizes that the current increase in the poverty rate means a lot of work ahead for the agency. In an interview, NAPC Head, Liza Maza admitted that they might have

neglected certain deprivations such as shelter, job security, and livelihood, which make people feel poor. Hopefully, NAPC’s poverty reduction projects and programs will benefit from President Duterte’s working idea to give a percentage of the Pagcor income from online gaming to the NAPC. We hope this idea will soon come into fruition. While the President continues to fight illegal drugs and illegal gambling, he should also seriously fight unemployment, hunger, and poverty, with equal vigor. The increasing rate of poverty leaves no room for delay. The President must take a decisive action now, and fulfill the promises he made, especially to those who entrusted their welfare to his leadership.

Shame on Sotto I THOUGHT he couldn’t say or do anything dumber after that infamous plagiarism issue, but Senator Tito Sotto proved me wrong. His latest imbecilic pronouncement was at DSWD Secretary Judy Taguiwalo’s conﬁrmation hearing the other day, when he mocked her personal life. “Sotto: On the lighter side, Senator Drilon and I have been looking at the personal information about you. You have two children— daughters ba or sons? Sec Judy: Yes, two daughters. Sotto: Two daughters. But you’re single? *room laughs* Sec Judy: My life has never been a normal one. I never had the whole mother-father-children kind of thing except when I was growing up in Bacolod. From 1972 until 1986, I led a life underground or in prison. Sotto: In the street language, if you have children and then you are single, ang tawag dun e ‘na-ano lang.’ *more laughter*

Sec Judy: Senator Sotto, I teach women’s studies. We respect all kinds of families, and that includes solo parents. Thank you.” Sotto’s comments were deeply offensive and out of line. They were irrelevant to the matter at hand and were totally unnecessary and uncalled-for. I commend Sec. Taguiwalo for keeping her temper and still returning a gracious reply that should sting Sotto if he had any delicadeza, which he does not. Also reprehensible are the people who laughed at Sotto’s disgusting sallies. It shows just how many are still mired in the muck of the patriarchal mindset that rules society and makes the VAWC law necessary. For a senator, one of the highest in the land to treat with such insufferable smugness and rudeness a professional and a fellow human being shows the murk of his sexist and chauvinist attitudes. His conduct was unbecoming of a statesman and a gentleman. The latter he certainly is not—just look to his past for all the times he objectiﬁed women and treated them as mere adjuncts of men. Not too long ago, he shamed a female contestant on a TV show for

wearing shorts in the company of male friends during a drinking session. That’s unfair and unreasonable. Just as men may wear anything they like so can women. The onus is on men—on other people—to behave themselves and refrain from harming others for any reason, least of all the way they are clad. Also offensive is the phrase Sotto used to Taguiwalo—‘na-ano lang.’ That is sick. Sotto prides himself as coming from a good family, but the way he acts, he seems to have been brought up without any manners, not knowing respect, kindness, and compassion for others. Sadly, he has still fooled a goodly number of voters who voted for him in spite of his track record of bungling incompetence and intolerance of those who do not subscribe to his narrow-minded norms. He couldn’t even discern that his remarks were out of place and had nothing to do with the topic. Question the qualiﬁcations of the candidate, yes—mock or shame their personal life, no. Sotto ill beﬁts the stature and position of senator. He will not change his mindset nor his ways —remember how he had the gall to defend his plagiarism, instead of apologizing for it? His behavior reinforces

the worst in society, and scarily, has the power to inﬂuence young people and make some of them believe that this is the way things should be. It’s incomprehensible how he is still in a position of authority. He doesn’t have the gravitas nor the values to deserve the prestige of his position. Sotto’s mockery of Taguiwalo was a slap in the face to single mothers and all women including the female members of his family. It’s impossible that he doesn’t have family or friends who are single mothers. Well, now they know what he really thinks of them—‘naano lang.’ This kind of thinking sets women back. This kind of thinking sets all Filipinos, and all humans, back. This is one of the reasons we lag in societal development. When such a strong and self-sufﬁcient sector of society—single parents—are mocked and shamed on national media and in the hallowed chambers of the Senate, by a senator, what respect is there for others in similarly challenging circumstances? In this instance, shame should rest on Tito Sotto, not Judy Taguiwalo. ‘Na-ano’ lang din ang bansa when he was elected.

Why Netflix is winning the online piracy wars By Leonid Bershidsky A HACKER who has unsuccessfully tried to hold Netflix for ransom has achieved an unexpected result: His failure shows that subscription-based business models in content distribution is making piracy pointless. Intellectual property owners’ slowness in adopting these models is the only reason content is still being pirated. Someone calling himself (or herself, or themselves) TheDarkOverlord stole most of the new season of Netflix’s popular series, “Orange Is the New Black,” from a postproduction studio and demanded ransom. Netflix refused to pay, and TheDarkOverlord put the stolen material on the Pirate Bay for anyone with a torrent client to download. But it’s not likely that others the hacker or hackers are threatening—Fox, National Geographic and ABC—will pay up, either. Nor will Netflix regret its decision to hold on to its money: It’s safe to say that its bottom line won’t be affected; the most that might happen is that the fifth season of “Orange” will be released earlier than planned. The reason for that can be found

in networking solutions provider Sandvine’s Global Internet Phenomena Report. Last year, BitTorrent traffic reached 1.73 percent of peak period downstream traffic in North America. That’s down from the 60 percent share peer-to-peer file sharing had in 2003. Netflix was responsible for 35.15 percent of downstream traffic. File sharing is the only traffic component of internet traffic that isn’t growing —and isn’t projected to grow—in absolute terms, according to Cisco Systems. Its content has been pirated since Netflix began producing its own shows, but it’s never left a mark. It has the resources for legal fights when they’re called for, but really, who wants to go through the trouble of using torrents—and risk problems with one’s internet provider, or, especially in Europe, with the law—to see a season a little earlier? Certainly, no one will cancel their Netflix subscription because one series is suddenly available for free download with an increasingly unpopular, inconvenient technology that doesn’t allow instant streaming. People would only consider that if all the content available on Netflix could suddenly

be streamed free of charge. “Subscription” is the key word here. This business model is a piracy killer. When it comes to video piracy, sites that illegally stream copyrighted content are the channel that beats torrents and other downloads today. Muso reported 77.7 billion visits to such sites in 2016. Though it’s far more convenient than torrents, video piracy is slowly declining. Subscription services such as Netﬂix are driving it down by expanding user choice and producing their own content, such as “Orange Is the New Black.” There will always be a relatively small number of people who consume pirated content because they are averse to paying even a small access fee. Mostly, however, consumers are motivated by convenience. Subscription services don’t cost much, and they’re easy and safe to use. Finding decent quality videos on piracy sites sites without watching invasive ads and running the risk of malware infection is a hopeless enterprise. Therein lies a problem. When it comes to video, copyright owners are less willing to release new and

in-demand content to subscription services such as Netflix. They are eager to preserve their theater revenues during a movie’s first run (controversial attempts to make them available for home use, such as Sean Parker’s Screening Room with $50 fees to watch a movie, don’t count), and they’re happier selling older movies to Apple and Amazon which offer them on a payper-view basis. That’s why Netflix sees itself as more of a channel than a catalog: It has little choice in the matter. And it can’t complain of a lack of growth, anyway. Film studios are missing an opportunity there. According to Muso, in 2016, there were 5.6 times as many visits to film piracy sites than to music piracy ones. Besides, there’s a major risk involved in the current movie distribution model. Eventually, movie studios and streaming services should work out a reasonable, perhaps tiered, subscription price system to make more content available online. It would drive down piracy, as the subscription model did in the software and music businesses, and it would make theft as nearly pointless as it has been in The DarkOverlord’s case. Bloomberg

lation but as a percentage of population, we certainly have more. In India, the English speakers are mostly found in their urban centers but outside of these urban centers, very few are able to speak English. About 1 in 10 people in India speak English. In the Philippines, seven in 10 do. And even if one goes out of the cities to some remote areas, one can ﬁnd people able to communicate in English. Not in the Queen’s English perhaps but enough to be understood. This is after all what is needed in communications. That the person at the receiving end can understand the subject to be communicated. The so-called Taglish which is a mixture of English and Filipino has become prevalent in recent years. This is perhaps because if we teach in Filipino and English in our schools at the same

time, the natural consequence is that we will come out with a medium that mixes the two. We even see this on TV and hear radio announcers speak Taglish and in a way, this has become an accepted norm and is not necessarily bad. Language after all must be dynamic and as long as people are comfortable with it, there should be nothing wrong with the practice. There are of course many language purists out there who are scornful of such a practice but clearly, these people are being drowned by the big number of people speaking Taglish and this practice will certainly continue into the future. Although this may be the case, the bill of Rep. Arroyo wants to upgrade the quality of English among Filipinos so that in addition to being able to speak proper English, they

will also be able to think English. Understanding, reading, speaking, and thinking in English are after all, best learned in school. We all know of the work ethic of Filipinos who are working abroad. Among the many countries that export their citizens to work overseas, the Filipinos are the most preferred. This is not only because of our industriousness but also because of our ability to communicate in English. Even with the current quality of English that we speak, we are already ahead of the curve compared to many countries but we have to upgrade if we want to target higher paying jobs in the international job market. Yes, there are other ways to enhance English. A new law, however, will ensure that the beneﬁts trickle down to everyone who goes to school.

English... From A4

at the earliest possible time. There will be those who will again object vigorously about this but hopefully, the debate will be objective, civil and reasonable. A look at the current state of English as a spoken language does not reveal up to date and credible data. For instance, I stumbled into one saying that 92 percent of people can communicate in English in this country which seems a bit high. There is also a 2010 data which is the latest I found saying that between 70 percent to 80 percent can communicate in English— which is a little more believable. There are also some publications saying that the Philippines is the third or ﬁfth English-speaking country in the world. India has about 125 million English speakers which is more than our entire popu-

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News

THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017 Standard A6 TODAY Manila

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Du30 impeach bid doomed By Maricel V. Cruz and John Paolo Bencito

HOUSE leader on Wednesday expressed belief the impeachment case filed against President Rodrigo Duterte will be dismissed before Congress goes on sine die adjournment on June 2. Oriental Mindoro Rep. Reynaldo Umali, chairman of the House committee on justice, which deliberates on impeachment cases, said his panel will “dispose of the complaint” before the first regular session of the 17th Congress ends in June. Umali said he is certain that members of the House supermajority led by the Partido

Demokratikong Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan or PDP-Laban will vote to dismiss the impeachment complaint filed by Magdalo party-list Rep. Gary Alejano against Duterte. “I do not want to preempt the action of the panel members, but there is a very solid supermajority. The House of Representatives under PDPLaban is stronger than ever,”

said Umali, who used to be a member of the Liberal Party. Malacañang echoed Umali’s belief, with Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo saying the administration’s control over Congress will hold vital in junking the impeachment complaint filed against the President. “I don’t think it will succeed,” Panelo told reporters of efforts in Congress to prioritize Alejano’s impeachment proposal. “There is an overall majority in the Congress that supports the President. As well as the overwhelming majority of Filipinos who support the President, too.” He reiterated that the impeachment complaint against

Duterte is simply “propaganda” to discredit the President. Umali said he expects the impeachment case to be referred to his committee next week, and promised to schedule the hearing at the soonest possible time. Meanwhile, Umali advised supporters of the President who seek the impeachment of Vice President Leni Robredo to do their homework in filing a solid impeachment case against her. The so-called Impeach Leni Movement wants Robredo impeached for betrayal of public trust, following her video message to the United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs, where she criti-

cized the administration’s war on illegal drugs. But the group failed to file an impeachment complaint against the Vice President, unsuccessfully convincing any member of the House of Representatives to endorse their action. This developed as PBA party-list Rep. Jericho Nograles said there was a “miscommunication” between his camp and the group of lawyers who want to unseat Robredo. Nograles said he accepted lawyer Bruce Rivera’s apology on the aborted impeachment complaint, which had Nograles’ name as endorser even though the congressman had not given his consent.

IN BRIEF New SWIPT site opens on Friday THE Metro Manila Development Authority has set the soft opening of the new site for the Southwest Interim Provincial Terminal on Friday at the HK Sun Plaza in Pasay City. The MMDA is transferring the location of the SWIPT from the Coastal Road in Parañaque City, rented by the agency for P1.5 million monthly to serve as central terminal of buses coming from south of Metro Manila. “The new site will be opened while the agency is still maintaining the current terminal at Coastal Mall until all provincial buses from Cavite and Batangas are transferred to HK Plaza,” said MMDA general manager and acting chairman Thomas Orbos. Orbos said around 300 provincial buses with end points in Baclaran, SM Mall of Asia, Mandaluyong and Cubao will be initially transferred to the new SWIPT site. The agency will be coordinating with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board for an updated list of provincial buses with assigned end points that still have valid franchises, he added. City buses that have Baclaran as their assigned franchised route are also allowed to pass by the HK Sun Plaza for passenger transfers, Orbos said. Joel E. Zurbano

MMDA sues 3 QC village chiefs

INCLUSIVE EDUCATION. Leyte first district Rep. Yedda Marie Romualdez delivers her message to more than 700 delegates from different countries in Asia during the International Congress on Education in the 21st Century at Berkeley Hotel in Bangkok, Thailand. Romualdez said the fundamental philosophy of inclusive education ‘is to ensure that all children, regardless of the income level or where they live, are given the equal opportunity to study and learn.’

BoC seizes P15m in China-made fireworks in CdO Republic of the Philippines C AV I T E S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y (C v S U ) D o n S eve r i n o d e a l a s C a m p u s I n d a n g , c av i t e (0 4 6) 415 010 /415 - 0 011 415 - 0 012 w w w.c v s u .e d u c . p h INVITATION TO APPLY FOR ELIGIBILITY AND TO BID (INFRASTRUCTURE/CIVIL WORKS) The CAVITE STATE UNIVERSITY, through its Bids and Award Committee (BAC), invites all interested bidders/contractors with size range of Medium A to apply for eligibility and to bid for the hereunder project: Name of Project

ESTABLISHMENT OF TECHNOLOGY IDEATION, INNOVATION AND INCUBATION AND TRAINING CENTER (TECHNOVATION CENTER)

Location

ROSARIO CAMPUS, CAVITE STATE UNIVERSITY, ROSARIO, CAVITE

Brief Description

ESTABLISHMENT OF TECHNOLOGY IDEATION, INNOVATION AND INCUBATION AND TRAINING CENTER (TECHNOVATION CENTER)

Contract Duration

340 CALENDAR DAYS

Approved Budget For the Contract

: P 55,000,000.00

Prospective bidders should have completed, within ten (10) years from the date of submission and receipt of bids, a contract similar to the projects. The Eligibility Check/Screening as well as the Preliminary Examination of Bids shall use non-discretionary “pass/fail” criteria. Post-qualification of the lowest calculated bid shall be conducted.

THE Bureau of Customs on Wednesday turned over P15 million worth of China-made firecrackers to the Philippine National Police, which were seized by the agency in Cagayan de Oro last week. The shipments, consigned to Spherebox Marketing and Pro-V Marketing Unlimited Co., were declared as drinking glasses, cups, reams of bond

All particulars relative to Eligibility Statement and Screening, Bid Security, Performance Security, Pre-Bidding Conference(s), Evaluation of Bids, PostQualification and Award of Contract shall be governed by the pertinent provisions of R.A. 9184 and its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR).

Republic of the Philippines PROVINCE OF QUIRINO Cabarroguis -oOo-

The complete schedule of activities is listed, as follows: Activities 1. Issuance of Bid Documents 2. Pre-bid Conference 3. Opening of Bids

Schedule April 28, 2017 to May 17, 2017; 8:00AM – 5:00PM May 4, 2017; 2:45 PM; S.L. Lasap Hall, Administration Building, Cavite State University, Indang, Cavite May 18, 2017; 2:45 PM; S.L. Lasap Hall, Administration Building, Cavite State University, Indang, Cavite

BIDS AND AWARDS COMMITTEE INVITATION TO BID FOR

Bid Documents will be available only to prospective bidders upon payment of a non-refundable amount of Twenty Five Thousand Pesos Only (P 25,000.00) to the CAVITE STATE UNIVERSITY Cashier. Pre-bid conference shall be open only to all interested bidders. Bids must be delivered to the Office of the BAC Chairman, Administration Bldg., CvSU, Indang, Cavite on or before the abovementioned date and time. All bids must be accompanied by a bid security in any of the acceptable forms and amount. Bids will be opened in the presence of the bidders’ authorized representatives who choose to attend the bidding. Late bids shall not be accepted. The CAVITE STATE UNIVERSITY (CvSU) assumes no responsibility whatsoever to compensate or indemnify bidders for any expenses incurred in the preparation of the bid. CvSU also reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids, to annul the bidding process, to reject all bids at any time prior to Contract Award without incurring any liability to the affected bidders, waive any required formality therein, and to award the Contract to the bidder whose bid proposal as evaluated is most advantageous to the University. Approved by: (sgd) CAMILO A. POLINGA, PhD BAC Chairman (MS-MAY 4, 2017)

Republic of the Philippines

PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT OF ORIENTAL MINDORO

P r ov i n c i a l C a p i t o l C o m p l ex , Calapan City 5200, Oriental Mindoro

BIDS AND AWARDS COMMITTEE

IB No. GS-2017- 47

The Pr ovincial Government of O r i e n ta l Mi n d o r o i n vi te s P h i l Ge p s r e g i stered s uppliers d i s t r i b u t o r s a n d c o n t r a c t o r s to B i d fo r th e i te m d e c r i b e d b e l o w. Ite m/Description

Furnishing & Delivering of Two (2) Units Brand New Bulldozer Contract No. PB-GS-2017-004 May 4, 2017 1. The Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) of the Provincial Government of Quirino, through the 20% Development Fund -intends to apply the sum of P 28,228,704.00 being the Approved Budget for the Contract (ABC) to payments under the contract for PB-GS-2017-004 Furnishing & Delivering of of Two (2) Units Brand New Bulldozer. Bids received in excess of the ABC shall be automatically rejected at bid opening. 2. The Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) of the Provincial Government of Quirino now invites bids for Furnishing & Delivering of Two (2) Units Brand New Bulldozer. Delivery of the Goods is required 90 Calendar Days. Bidders should have completed, within five (5) years from the date of submission and receipt of bids, a contract similar to the Project. The description of an eligible bidder is contained in the Bidding Documents, particularly, in Section II. Instructions to Bidders. 3. Bidding will be conducted through open competitive bidding procedures using non-discretionary pass/fail criterion as specified in the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act 9184 (RA 9184), otherwise known as the “Government Procurement Reform Act”.

INVITATION TO BID

1. Supply and D e livery o f C o n s t r u c t i o n Materials and Supplies for C o n s t r u c t i o n o f Va r i o u s O f f i c e s within Capitol Complex at Capitol C o m p l e x C a l a p a n C i t y, O r i e n t a l Mindoro

paper, and sanitary napkins, but turned out to be firecrackers upon inspection, Customs Intelligence and Investigation chief Neil Estrella said. The importers were identified as Quingtian Zhangchao Import and Export Co. Ltd., Yiwu Suge Import and Export Co. Ltd., and Guangzhou Kind Sam Import and Export Co. Ltd.

Ap p r o v e d Bu d g e t fo r th e Co n tr a c t (ABC)

Bi d Do c u m en t Fee

Source of Funding

2 8 , 0 0 5 , 811. 0 0

P h p 2 5 , 0 0 0 .0 0

General Fu n d 2 017

The schedule of bidding a c t iv it ie s is a s f ollow s : 1. Pre - pro curement C onference : A pril 28, 2017 at 10:0 0 a.m. at BAC O f f ice 2. Advertisement/Posting of ITB a. Bulletin Board of the PGOM : M ay 0 4, 2017 b. PGOM Website : M ay 0 4, 2017 c. PhilGEPS Website : M ay 0 4, 2017 d. Newspaper of General Nationwide Circulation : M ay 0 4, 2017 3. Issuance of Bidding Documents : M ay 0 8 - M ay 2 9, 2017 4. Pre-Bid Conference : M ay 15, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. at BAC Office 5. Deadline of Submission of Bids : M ay 2 9, 2017 at 9:3 0 a.m. at BAC Office 6. Opening of Bid in sealed envelope a). Eligibility Requirements and Technical Proposal : M ay 2 9, 2017 at 10:00 am at BAC Office b). Financial Proposal : M ay 2 9, 2017 at 10:00 am at BAC Office Bidding will be conducted through open competitive bidding procedures using nondiscretionary pass/fail criterion as specified in R.A. 9184 and its IRR otherwise known as the Government Procurement Reform Act. The complet e set of bidding d o cu me n ts ma y b e p u r ch a se d a t th e B AC Sec ret ariat upon payment of non-ref unda b l e p r i ce o f b i d d o cu me n ts i n d i ca te d a b ov e.

Bidding is restricted to Filipino citizens/sole proprietorships, partnerships, or organizations with at least seventy-five percent (75%) interest or outstanding capital stock belonging to citizens of the Philippines. 4. Interested bidders may obtain further information from Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) of the Provincial Government of Quirino and inspect the Bidding Documents at the address given below from 9:00 AM to 4:00PM. 5. A complete set of Bidding Documents may be purchased by interested Bidders from May 4, 2017 to May 22, 2017 from the address below and upon payment of a nonrefundable fee for the Bidding Documents in the amount of Twenty Thousand Pesos (P20,000.00). The BAC will issue hard copies of Bidding Documents at the BAC Secretariat, Capitol Hills, Cabarroguis, Quirino, upon payment of the applicable nonrefundable fee. The Pre-Bid Conference shall open only to interested parties who have purchased the BD’s. Bids must be accompanied by a bid security, in the amount and acceptable form, as stated in Section 27.2 of the Revised IRR. 6. The Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) of the Provincial Government of Quirino will hold a Pre-Bid Conference on May 11, 2017, 3:00PM at Special Projects Unit Conference Hall, 2nd Floor, Commercial Building, Capitol Compound, Capitol Hills, Cabarroguis, Quirino, which shall be open to all interested parties. 7. Bids must be delivered to the address below on or before May 23, 2017, 3:00PM at Special Projects Unit Conference Hall, 2nd Floor, Commercial Building, Capitol Compound, Capitol Hills, Cabarroguis, Quirino. All bids must be accompanied by a bid security in any of the acceptable forms and in the amount stated in ITB Clause 18. Bids will be opened in the presence of the bidders’ representatives who choose to attend at the address below. Late bids shall not be accepted.

Al l par ticulars relat ive t o e l i g i b i l i ty r e q u i r e me n ts a n d scr e e n i n g , bid s ec urit y , performance securit y, pre-bid co n fe r e n ce , e va l u a ti o n o f b i d s, p o st q u alif ic at ion and aw ard of cont ract shall be go ve r n e d b y th e p r o vi si o n o f R.A . 9 1 8 4 a n d it s I R R .

Prospective bidders shall submit their duly accomplished forms as specified in the BD’s in two (2) separate sealed bid envelopes to the BAC Chairman. The first envelope shall contain the technical component of the bid. The second envelope shall contain the financial component of the bid. Contract will be awarded to the Lowest Calculated Responsive Bid as determined in the bid evaluation and the post-qualification.

The PGO M reserves t he right to a cce p t o r r e j e ct b i d to a n n u l b i d d i n g proc es s , and to r ej ect all bids at anyt ime p r i o r to co n tr a ct a wa r d wi th o u t th e r e b y inc urring any l i abi l i ty to t he af f ect ed bidder o r b i d d e r s.

8. The Provincial Government of Quirino reserves the right to accept or reject any bid, to annul the bidding process, and to reject all bids at any time prior to contract award, without thereby incurring any liability to the affected bidder or bidders.

Pre-Bid Conference shall be opened to all interested parties, however only those who purchased the Bidding Documents may participate in the discussion at said conference.

For furth er inf ormat ion, pleas e r e fe r to :

For further information, please refer to:

MR . JU LI O R. I CAL H ead, BA C Secret ariat Provi nci al Capit ol, Camilmil, Ca l a p a n Ci ty Tel . (043) 286-7120 (043) 286-7447

Engr. Dencio A. Pagbilao Chairman, Bids and Awards Committee Province of Quirino +639175007275 +639177756155 (SGD) ENGR. DENCIO A. PAGDILAO BAC Chairman

(Sgd.) ENGR. ELMER V. DILAY P r o vi n c ial Engineer B AC C hairm an (M S-M AY 4 , 2 017 )

(MS-MAY 4, 2017)

“We turned over the seized items to the PNP for proper disposal so these won’t find its way to the market,” the BoC said. The confiscated fireworks and firecrackers were placed inside four 40-foot container vans, and arrived at the Mindanao Container Terminal sub-port in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental from China. Vito Barcelo

THREE barangay officials in Quezon City were the latest to receive administrative complaints for their failure to cooperate with the Metro Manila Development Authority, in connection with the government’s campaign against illegally-parked vehicles and other road obstructions. Charged with neglect of duties before the Office of Ombudsman were Jesus N. Lipnica Jr., chairman of Barangay Piñahan; Teodoro P. Calaunan Sr., of West Crame; and Telesforo Mortega, of San Roque District III. Lawyer Victor Nunez, MMDA legal counsel and head of the agency’s Towing Operations Unit, said they filed the case at the Ombudsman for the barangay leaders’ failure to maintain cleanliness and orderliness in their respective areas, following the agency’s series of clearing operations on illegally-parked vehicles and other obstructions. “We had our post operation report given to them. It was sent also to the DILG [Department of the Interior and Local Government] and to the Ombudsman,” he said. Nunez said before they filed the case, MMDA personnel conducted surveillance in the subject areas, and they were surprised to find out the obstructions were still there. Joel E. Zurbano

PH, Russia to boost defense cooperation By Vito Barcelo THE Philippines and Russia have agreed to bolster their defense cooperation during the sidelines of the VI Moscow Conference of International Security, which was attended by Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, the Department of Foreign Affairs said Wednesday. In a statement, the DFA said Lorenzana had his first bilateral meeting with his Russian counterpart, Defense Minister Sergey Shoygu, in Moscow. “Secretary Lorenzana and Defense Minister Shoygu welcomed the positive developments in the bilateral relations, and agreed to further bolster cooperation in the defense and security sphere,” the statement said. Lorenzana noted that Russia and the Philippines have enjoyed cordial relations since establishing diplomatic relations in 1976, but “it is only now that we are set to substantiate our relations, especially in the area of defense.” The Philippine official said that the Department of National Defense is ready to conclude a framework agreement with the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation when President Rodrigo Roa Duterte visits Moscow next month. Lorenzana also said the Philippines looks forward to enhanced security and defense engagement in terms of training, exchange of information and expertise, and

port calls, among others. He likewise thanked Russia for its support of the Philippines’ chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations this year, specifically the Asean Defense Ministers Meeting Plus. Russia considers the Philippines an important prospective partner in Southeast Asia and the Asia-Pacific region, its defense ministry said. “We are encouraged by the progressive development of Russian-Philippine relations in the defense field. The key event in this context was the meeting of Presidents of the two countries at the Apec Summit in Lima last November,” Shoygu added. Philippines-Russia politico-security relations are on the upswing, the DFA noted. In 2016, the two sides celebrated 40 years of diplomatic relations with high-level meetings of states, governments, ministerial, and senior officials, as well as cultural activities. A good indication of the burgeoning PH-Russia defense interaction, the DFA said, was last week’s four-day port call in Manila of the guided missile cruiser “Varyag”—the flagship of the Russian Navy’s Pacific Fleet. The first of such visits were that of the anti-submarine ship “Admiral Tributs” and sea-tanker “Boris Butoma” that came to Manila last January. These port calls are part of the Russian Navy’s goodwill initiative to promote trust and confidence between the two sides, the DFA said.

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

Sports

Manila

Standard

TODAY

Blackwater whips NLEX, keeps bid for Top 8 alive It seemed like the Elite had the game in the bag, but the Road Warriors made it a little interestLACKWATER kept its slim hopes alive after ing in the end, but still fell short. NLEX came to within six out-dueling still winless NLEX, 104-98, points multiple times in the last for some positivity in the 2017 Philippine five minutes, but Blackwater kept its cool and eventually held on. Basketball Association Commissioner’s Cup Kevin Alas had 18 markers for yesterday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. the losing side. Meanwhile, in a more imporGreg Smith led the way for On the other hand, the defeat tant tiff, second-running Meralco the Elite, scoring a game-high 24 officially eliminated the hapless (6-1) is currently shooting for its points and hauling 18 rebounds, Road Warriors as they remained third straight win and a berth in while Mike DiGregorio also had a without a win at 0-8. the quarterfinals as it is playing nice output of 22 points. Blackwater cruised through Phoenix (3-4) as of this report. This win improved Blackwater to the first three quarters, working A victory for the Bolts will 2-6 and kept its chances of making its way to a commanding 86-68 make them the first ones through the top eight alive. spread heading the final period. to the quarters.

By Jeric Lopez

On the other hand, the Fuel Masters are in dire need of a win to keep in-step with the teams in the middle and more importantly, boost their bid of making the top eight. The scores: BLACKWATER 104—Smith 24, Canaleta 24, Digregorio 22,Cruz 9, Pinto 7, Pascual 6, Cervantes 4, Aguilar 4, Sena 2, Gamalinda 2, Sumang 0, Buenafe 0. NLEX 98—Alas 18, Al-Hussaini 17, Lastimosa 10, Taulava 10, Anthony 9, Chism 9, Khobuntin 8, Camson 5, Villanueva J. 4, Monfort 4, Soyud 3, Rios 1, Tiongson 0, Guinto 0, Baracael 0. Quarterscores: 28-17, 49-42, 86-68, 104-98.

Palace has final say on RMSC, says Ramirez By Peter Atencio MALACAÑANG will have the last word on the fate of the ageing Rizal Memorial Sports Complex. Philippine Sports Commission Chairman William “Butch” Ramirez said this after a ruling by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines declared. “We received a signed letter from the director of the NHCP. But, the matter of deciding on this has not yet been finalized. It will still depend on the Office of the President,” said Ramirez. Now that the declaration of the

sports complex as a national historical landmark has been made official, the proposed sale of the pre-war sports mecca to a developer is still up in the air, according to Ramirez. The sports chief said the PSC is not yet relinquishing its rights on the historic sports facility. Officials of the government sports agency have not yet reached an agreement with representatives of the Manila City Hall on what to do with the aging sports facility. According to their discussion with the DOJ, the City of Manila has ownership of the property, but since the PSC has usufructuary rights, they still have the

PRESENT: Vice Mayor Councilor “ “ “ “ “ “ “ “ “ “ “ “ “ “

MONIQUE Q. LAGDAMEO - Presiding Officer SHIRLEY C. ASPILLAGA MARIE ALETHEA SJ. CASAL-UY GRAZIELLE IONY N. DE LARA-BES FERDINAND T. EUSEBIO VIRGILIO V. HILARIO JR. DIVINA A. JACOME LUIS S. JAVIER JR. LEONARDO M. MAGPANTAY ROMEO C. MEDINA MA. ARLENE M. ORTEGA NELSON S. PASIA MARY RUTH C. TOLENTINO EVELYN DELFINA E. VILLAMOR MARIA CONCEPCION M. YABUT NEMESIO S. YABUT JR.

LnB President

ARMANDO P. PADILLA

ABSENT: Councilor “ ENRICO J. PUNO-Sick Leave ================================================================================= On motion presented by Hon. G.I.N. de Lara-Bes, which was duly seconded by all Members present, the Sangguniang Panlungsod of the City of Makati approved City Resolution No. 2017-039 on second and final reading. CITY RESOLUTION NO. 2017-039 Authors: Hon. M.C.M. Yabut, Hon. M.A.S.J. Casal-Uy, Hon. D.A. Jacome, Hon. G.I. de Lara-Bes, Hon. N.S. Yabut Jr., Hon. A.P. Padilla, Hon. R.C. Medina and Hon. M.R.C. Tolentino Co-Authors: Hon. S.C. Aspillaga, Hon. F.T. Eusebio, Hon. V.V. Hilario, Jr., Hon. L.S. Javier, Jr., Hon. L.M. Magpantay, Hon. N.S. Pasia, Hon. M.A.M. Ortega and Hon. E.D.E. Villamor A RESOLUTION ENCOURAGING THE SANGGUNIANG BARANGAYS OF THE DIFFERENT BARANGAYS OF THE CITY OF MAKATI TO ENACT AN ORDINANCE STANDARDIZING THEIR BARANGAY CLEARANCE FEE FOR ALL LEGITIMATE COOPERATIVES OPERATING WITHIN THE CITY OF MAKATI IN THE AMOUNT OF ONE HUNDRED FIFTY PESOS (PHP 150.00), SUBJECT TO EXISTING LAWS, RULES AND REGULATIONS. WHEREAS, Section 1, Article 2 of Republic Act 9520, otherwise known as the Philippine Cooperative Code of 2008, provides that the State shall foster the creation and growth of cooperatives as a practical vehicle for promoting self-reliance and harnessing people power towards the attainment of economic development and social justice; WHEREAS, as a business entity operating within the City of Makati, cooperatives are mandated to comply with the requirements set forth in City Ordinance No. 2004-A-025, otherwise known as the Revised Makati Revenue Code; WHEREAS, among the vital prerequisites relative to the issuance of a Mayor’s Permit, as stipulated in Section 4A.13 of City Ordinance 2004-A-025, is the clearance issued by the Barangay; WHEREAS, comparative data gathered by the Makati Cooperative Development Office (MCDO) from all barangays in Makati City revealed that the Barangay Clearance Fees imposed on cooperatives range from One Hundred Pesos (Php 100.00) to Two Thousand Pesos (Php 2,000.00); WHEREAS, consistent with the plight of the cooperative sector, the Makati Cooperative Development Council (MCDC), through MCDC Resolution No. 2017-03, requested the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Makati to set a standard fee of One Hundred Fifty Pesos (Php 150.00) on barangay clearance for duly registered cooperatives; WHEREAS, to further promote the growth and development of cooperatives, the Sangguniang Panlungsod deems it necessary to encourage the Sangguniang Barangays of the different barangays of the City of Makati to enact an Ordinance standardizing the clearance fee imposed on such sector by the barangays. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, AS IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED BY THE SANGGUNIANG PANLUNGSOD OF MAKATI, METRO MANILA, BY VIRTUE OF THE POWERS VESTED IN IT BY LAW, IN SESSION ASSEMBLED, to encourage the Sangguniang Barangays of the different barangays of the City of Makati to enact an Ordinance standardizing their barangay clearance fee for all legitimate cooperatives operating within the City of Makati in the amount of One Hundred Fifty Pesos (Php 150.00), subject to existing laws, rules and regulations. Let copy of this Resolution be furnished the Makati Cooperative Development Office (MCDO), Office of the Mayor, Office of the City Administrator, Law Department, Liga ng mga Barangay and all offices, departments and agencies concerned for their information, guidance and reference. This Resolution shall take effect immediately upon its approval. APPROVED BY THE SANGGUNIANG PANLUNGSOD OF MAKATI, METRO MANILA, in its Regular Session held on 3 May 2017. HON. SHIRLEY C. ASPILLAGA

HON. ROMEO C. MEDINA

HON. MARIE ALETHEA S.J. CASAL-UY

HON. MA ARLENE M. ORTEGA

HON. GRAZIELLE IONY N. DE LARA-BES

P HON. NELSON S. PASIA

HON. FERDINAND T. EUSEBIO

HON. ENRICO J. PUNO

HON. VIRGILIO V. HILARIO JR.

ON. MARY RUTH C. TOLENTINO HON.

HON. DIVINA A. JACOME

ON. EVELYN DELFINA E. VILLAMOR HON.

HON. LUIS S. JAVIER JR.

HON. MARIA CONCEPCION M. YABUT

HON. LEONARDO M. MAGPANTAY

HON. NEMESIO S. YABUT JR.

SICK LEAVE

right to negotiate. And through a usufruct agreement, the government sports agency will get a big percentage of the money that will be earned from its sale. The ruling of the NHCP,

THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017 sports_mstandard@yahoo.com

declaring the sports complex as a national historical landmark should have stopped any sale. For now, the stadium, which was built back in 1934, can’t be demolished under the ruling.

Prado posts PPS Tagum 3-title feat JONAMIL Prado racked up three girls’ titles in straight-set fashions while Andrei Padao annexed two in the boys side as they led the winners in the Palawan Pawnshop-Palawan Express Pera Padala Tagum leg regional age group tennis tournament at the Tagum City Tennis Courts in Davao del Norte yesterday. Prado, 14, dominated her age-group with a 6-2, 6-0 romp over Nor Pulido but the rising star from Mati City upended second seed Donna Mae Tormis, 6-4, 6-2, in the 16-U finals then sustained her form and repulsed Alexis Geollegue, 6-3, 6-4, to likewise claim the premier 18-U diadem and complete a rare feat in the Group 2 tournament which served as part of the PPS-PEPP Mindanao summer tour sponsored by Palawan Pawnshop and presented by Slazenger. The fourth-ranked Padao, on the other hand, upset top seed Rey Ello, 4-6, 6-1, 10-6, in the semis then routed No. 3 Derek Napala, 6-1, 6-1, to nail the 12-U title then whipped Khobe Dumlao, 6-0, 6-2, to claim the 14-U plum in the event backed by Asiatraders Corp. and the new Unified tennis group, led by PPS-PEPP, Cebuana Lhuillier, Wilson, Toby’s and B-Meg. Prado and Padao also went on to clinch the MVP honors. John Aljandre from Midsayap stunned top seed Janus Ringia of Sultan Kudarat, 6-2, 6-2, to snare the boys’ 18-U crown; Ringia rebound00-00-00-00-00-00 P0 M+ ed with a 6-2, 6-2 romp over Earl Casal in the 16-U finals; Al Rasheed 00-00-00-00-00-00 P0 M Lucman from Malaybalay, Bukidnon took the DIGITS 0-0-0-0 10-unisex trophy with a 4-1, 4-1 rout of Joji Taketomi; and Jaden Orquia, DIGITS 0-0-0 also from Mati, thumped Shieloh Ripdos, 6-2, 6-0, to pocket the girls’ 12-U EZ2 0-0 diadem.

LOTTO RESULTS

6/55 6/45 4 3 2

PRESENT: Vice Mayor Councilor “ “ “ “ “ “ “ “ “ “ “ “ “ “

LnB President

ARMANDO P. PADILLA

LnB President

ARMANDO P. PADILLA

ABSENT: Councilor “ ENRICO J. PUNO-Sick Leave =============================================================================

On motion presented by Hon. N.S. Pasia, which was duly seconded by all Members present, the Sangguniang Panlungsod of the City of Makati approved City Resolution No. 2017-040 on second and final reading.

CITY RESOLUTION NO. 2017-040 Authors: Hon. M.C.M. Yabut, Hon. M.A.S.J. Casal-Uy, Hon. D.A. Jacome, Hon. G.I.N. de Lara-Bes, Hon. N.S. Yabut, Jr., Hon. N.S. Pasia, Hon. A.P. Padilla and Hon. L.S. Javier, Jr.

Co-Authors: Hon. S.C. Aspillaga, Hon. F.T. Eusebio, Hon. V.V. Hilario, Jr., Hon. L.M. Magpantay, Hon. R.C. Medina, Hon. M.A.M. Ortega, Hon. M.R.C. Tolentino and Hon. E.D.E. Villamor

A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE HONORABLE MAYOR MAR-LEN ABIGAIL S. BINAY TO SIGN AND EXECUTE A DEED OF ABSOLUTE SALE, ON BEHALF OF THE CITY GOVERNMENT OF MAKATI, WITH THE QUALIFIED BENEFICIARIES, INCLUDING THEIR SUCCESSORS-ININTEREST, WHO HAVE ALREADY PAID IN FULL THE PURCHASE PRICE, REGARDING THE PORTIONS OF MITRA PROPERTY LOCATED AT BARANGAYS TEJEROS AND SINGKAMAS WHICH WERE PREVIOUSLY SOLD TO SUCH BENEFICIARIES, SUBJECT TO EXISTING LAWS, RULES AND REGULATIONS.

WHEREAS, Sec. 25, Art. II of the 1987 Constitution provides that the “(S)tate shall ensure autonomy of local governments”;

WHEREAS, the City Government of Makati has been committed in providing land to the underprivileged in line with the policy of the State for a continuing program on land reform and housing;

WHEREAS, the City Government of Makati owned a lot located in the adjoining barangays of Tejeros and Singkamas, popularly known as the Mitra lot, where some residents stay without colorable title and allowed only by the city due to humanitarian considerations;

WHEREAS, the City of Makati, as a sign of good gesture to attain the aim of the above-mentioned undertaking, issued various City Resolutions to that effect. The latest was City Resolution No. 2001-182 series of 2001 entitled as “A Resolution Authorizing the Honorable Mayor Jejomar C. Binay to Sign and Execute the Deed of Absolute Sale by and between the City of Makati and the Lot Beneficiaries of the Mitra Property Located at Barangays Tejeros and Singkamas, Makati City, Metro Manila, Subject to the Ratification of the Sangguniang Panlungsod and to All Legal and Existing Rules and Regulations.”;

WHEREAS, it has come to the attention of the City that some residents have already complied with their obligation in paying the full price agreed, a condition to perfect a sale of the portion of the said lot between the said resident and the City of Makati;

WHEREAS, in the light of the recent developments, the City Government of Makati acknowledged the need to continue further and execute an absolute deed of sale to qualified beneficiaries in order to fully achieve the City’s thrust in providing shelter for everyone.;

WHEREAS, the abovementioned aim can only be materialized if a Resolution is passed authorizing the Honorable Mayor Mar-len Abigail S. Binay to perform such act;

WHEREAS, the Sangguniang Panlungsod, pursuant to Sec. 8 (a) (6) of R.A. 7854, otherwise known as the Charter of the City of Makati, hereby authorizes the Hon. Mayor Mar-Len Abigail S. Binay to sign and execute a Deed of Absolute Sale with the qualified beneficiaries, including their successors-in-interest, who have already paid in full the purchase price, regarding the portions of mitra property located at Barangays Tejeros and Singkamas.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, AS IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED BY THE SANGGUNIANG PANLUNGSOD OF MAKATI, METRO MANILA, BY VIRTUE OF THE POWERS VESTED IN IT BY LAW IN SESSION ASSEMBLED, to authorize the Honorable Mayor Mar-Len Abigail S. Binay to sign and execute a Deed of Absolute Sale, on behalf of the City Government of Makati, with the qualified beneficiaries, including their successors-in-interest, who have already paid in full the purchase price, regarding the portions of Mitra Property located at Barangays Tejeros and Singkamas which were previously sold to such beneficiaries, subject to existing laws, rules and regulations.

RESOLVED FURTHER, that the City Legal Department shall provide guidelines and terms and conditions governing the sale of Mitra Property to fully implement the award of such lot and to protect the interest of the City Government of Makati within thirty (30) days from the effectivity of this Resolution.

RESOLVED FURTHERMORE, that a certificate from the City Legal Department which states that the prospective beneficiary is qualified to receive the lot based on applicable guidelines shall be required before the endorsement of the prospective beneficiary as an awardee of a portion of the Mitra Property.

RESOLVED FURTHERMORE, that a copy of this Resolution be furnished to the Office of the Mayor, City Law Department, City Assessment Department, Office of the City Administrator and other offices/departments concerned for their information, guidance and reference.

RESOLVED FINALLY, that this Resolution shall take effect immediately upon its approval.

APPROVED BY THE SANGGUNIANG PANLUNGSOD OF MAKATI, METRO MANILA, in its Regular Session held on 3 May 2017.

HON. SHIRLEY C. ASPILLAGA

HON. ROMEO C. MEDINA

HON. SHIRLEY C. ASPILLAGA

HON. ROMEO C. MEDINA

HON. MARIE ALETHEA S.J. CASAL-UY

HON. MA ARLENE M. ORTEGA

HON. MARIE ALETHEA S.J. CASAL-UY

HON. MA ARLENE M. ORTEGA

HON. GRAZIELLE IONY N. DE LARA-BES

P HON. NELSON S. PASIA

HON. GRAZIELLE IONY N. DE LARA-BES

P HON. NELSON S. PASIA

HON. FERDINAND T. EUSEBIO

HON. ENRICO J. PUNO

HON. FERDINAND T. EUSEBIO

HON. ENRICO J. PUNO

HON. VIRGILIO V. HILARIO JR.

HON. ON. MARY RUTH C. TOLENTINO

HON. VIRGILIO V. HILARIO JR.

HON. ON. MARY RUTH C. TOLENTINO

HON. DIVINA A. JACOME

HON. ON. EVELYN DELFINA E. VILLAMOR

HON. DIVINA A. JACOME

HON. ON. EVELYN DELFINA E. VILLAMOR

HON. LUIS S. JAVIER JR.

HON. MARIA CONCEPCION M. YABUT

HON. LUIS S. JAVIER JR.

HON. MARIA CONCEPCION M. YABUT

HON. LEONARDO M. MAGPANTAY

HON. NEMESIO S. YABUT JR.

HON. LEONARDO M. MAGPANTAY

HON. NEMESIO S. YABUT JR.

SICK LEAVE

HON. ARMANDO P. PADILLA LnB President

SICK LEAVE

HON. ARMANDO P. PADILLA LnB President

Certified true and correct by:

ATTY. DINDO R. CERVANTES Secretary to the Sangguniang Panlungsod

Certified true and correct by:

Attested by:

HON. MONIQUE Q. LAGDAMEO Vice Mayor & Presiding Officer

ATTY. DINDO R. CERVANTES Secretary to the Sangguniang Panlungsod

Attested by:

HON. MONIQUE Q. LAGDAMEO Vice Mayor & Presiding Officer (MS-MAY 4, 2017)

(MS-MAY 4, 2017)

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

Riera U. Mallari, Editor Reuel Vidal, Assistant Editor sports@thestandard.com.ph sports_mstandard@yahoo.com

THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017

Sports

GAB okays 1st PH pro football tilt

Isaiah Thomas of the Boston Celtics acknowledges the cheers of the crowd during his team’s Game 2 against the Washington Wizards in the Eastern Conference Semiﬁnals of the 2017 NBA Playoffs at the TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. AFP

THE Games and Amusements Board on Tuesday granted an authority to hold professional games to the Philippines Football League, the first-ever national football league with professional status. “I congratulate the PFL and assure hundreds of athletes, coaches and participating officials of our full support. The approval of its professional status means the PFL shall secure game permits as well as individual licenses for players and participating officials before games and tournaments are held,” ,” said Abraham Kahlil B. Mitra, GAB Chairman. Mitra said PFL is a welcome addition to the growing list of professional sports currently regulated by GAB, including basketball, horse racing, boxing, mixed martial arts (including all other contact sports), golf, cycling, billiard, tennis, table tennis, dance sports, cockfight (international derby), bowling and volleyball “Hundreds of PFL players and officials will be card-carrying GAB licensees. For taking this step to be professionalized, the football community especially its fans can count on our efforts to promote integrity and fair treatment in PFL events,” Mitra added. GAB is mandated under Presidential Decree 871 to supervise and regulate the conduct of professional sports and games nationwide. “As part of our supervisory mandate, we regularly conduct dialogues with professional sports stakeholders.” Boxing is one of the high-stake professional sports under the agency wherein part of its roles is to conduct seminars, conventions and consultations with boxers, managers, promoters, trainers, ring officials and others. GAB will be hosting the national boxing convention in Davao in May 11-13.

Thomas’ 53 points fuel Celtics W

ASHINGTON—Isaiah Thomas scored a career-high 53 points and dedicated the effort to his late sister as the Boston Celtics defeated the Washington Wizards 129-119 in a second-round NBA playoff game Tuesday.

Thomas scored 20 points in the fourth quarter and nine more in a game-closing 15-2 over-time run that gave the host Celtics a 2-0 lead in the best-ofseven Eastern Conference series, which shifts to Washington for game three on Thursday.

Thomas attended his sister Chyna’s funeral Saturday after she died in a car accident and has also had to overcome having had a tooth knocked out in a gameone victory Sunday. “My sister, everything I do is for her, and she’s watching

over me,” Thomas said. On what would have been his sister’s 23rd birthday, Thomas connected on 18-of-33 shots from the floor and 12-of-13 from the free throw line. “The least I can do is go out there and play for her,” Thomas said. “There was no way I couldn’t play on her birthday. I wanted to win for her.” He did more than that, eclipsing his former career-best 52 points in a regular-season victory over Miami this season and his former playoff best of 42 last year against Atlanta.

In the Western Conference, NBA season wins leader Golden State beat visiting Utah 106-94 in the opener of their second-round series. Celtics center Al Horford contributed 15 points and 12 rebounds while Jae Crowder and Avery Bradley each added 14 points for Boston. But the only Celtics player to ever score more points in a playoff game was John Havlicek, who struck for 54 in 1973. “It’s nice [for] your name to be in Celtics’ history with all the great players, but until you win one of them championships you can’t call yourself a great player,”

Mathiam Keyser hits his drive on No. 3

Keyser, Catlin take control TARLAC—South African Mathiam Keyser and John Catlin of the US produced identical six-under 66s in varying fashions as they led the assault of the foreign bets against the local aces in the $60,000 ICTSI Luisita Championship at the Luisita Golf and Country Club here yesterday. Keyser, 30, rode on an explosive eagle-spiked frontside charge to seize control but wavered at the finish for a 3135 card while Catlin charged back from a bogey mishap on No. 3 with a cluster of birdies—seven, including two of the last three as they wrested a one-stroke lead over Americans Brett Munson and John Michael O’Toole, who both turned in a 67. “Overall, I played pretty well. Everything is okay—

putting, irons and short game were simply good. I hope to keep it going until the last round,” said Keyser, a veteran of the Asian Tour who hit a solid 4-iron second shot from 236 yards then knocked in the eagle from 15 feet on the par-5 No. 9. Korean-American Micah Shin, who won the CAT (Central Azucarera de Tarlac) Open here last September, also leaned on a superb 33 start to fire a 69 for solo fifth in the 72-hole championship that features five Philippine Open champions. Tony Lascuña, who snapped a long title spell at Luisita with a six-shot romp over Korean Park Jun Hyeok last year, didn’t fare bad with a 70 but the reigning Philippine Golf Tour Order of Merit winner rued a late-hole bogey

on the treacherous par-3 17th that dropped him to a share of sixth with six others. They included compatriot Ferdie Aunzo and Jobim Carlos and another slew of foreign players who crowded the Top 10 in the early going of the event sponsored by ICTSI and organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc., led by Aussies David Gleeson and Nathan Park, and Lexus Keoninh and Nicolas Paez of the US. Bucking a late start, tight fairways and the scorching heat, Keyser came through with one solid shot after the other then flashed awesome putting touch to produced five birdies with an eagle to boot after 12 holes. But he fumbled with a bogey on No. 14, regained the stroke on the par-5 16th only to drop another shot on No. 17.

BaliPure takes on Pocari Sweat, eyes win no. 3 BALIPURE hopes to finally come up with a strong start as it seeks a third straight win against defending champion Pocari Sweat today (Thursday) even as Creamline tries to rebound against Air Force in the Premier Volleyball League at the FilOil Flying V Center in San Juan. The Water Defenders struggled in the early going in their first two matches but came up with strong finishing kick to repulse the Air Force Jet Spikers and the Power

sists, but 19 of those points and six assists came in the first quarter. The Wizards, who led 42-29 after the first period, became the first team since the NBA introduced a shot clock in 1954 to lose the first two games of a playoff series after leading each by 10 or more points at the end of the first quarter. “It was a hell of a basketball game,” Wizards coach Scott Brooks said. “Two teams played their hearts out. Two great players played well. I thought both teams competed, nothing to be ashamed of.” AFP

Forest Hills, Tagaytay stamp class in WGAP

Tennis great backs Lhuillier’s net bid FELIX Barrientos, who led the Philippine Davis Cup team to the World Group Playoffs in 1991 vs Sweden, has joined the long list of stakeholders backing the bid of long-time patron Jean Henri Lhuillier for the top Philippine Tennis Association (Philta) post. In a statement, the bemedalled Barrientos, who also won three gold medals in the 1991 Manila Southeast Asian games said that Lhuillier possesses the qualities and values worthy of leading the national tennis association to greater heights. “Global tennis associations govern themselves in the principles of transparency and fair conduct. Associations like the United States Tennis Association or the Lawn Tennis Association of Britain espouse such values in the interest of continuously discovering, developing and harnessing the talents of its tennis players on a sustainable basis. I believe Philippine tennis can embody such a culture which can serve the best interest of every tennis player and further create a culture of fair play that sets a fine example for future tennis players,” said Barrientos. “I believe Jean Henri espouses these very same values and I support his endeavor for tennis in our country. I believe he will be a great Philta president if given the opportunity,” he added. “It’s gratifying to be endorsed by someone like Felix who is an icon in Philippine tennis. He just showed that the real stakeholders of Philippine tennis really want positive change. This makes me even more motivated to continue fighting this good fight for the sake of tennis in the Philippines,” said Lhuillier. Meanwhile, HEAD became the latest company to withdraw support from Philta and join the Unified Tennis Group calendar. A total of 122 tournaments have withdrawn its support from Philta.

Thomas said. Thomas spent six hours with a dentist on Monday to repair his teeth and played with a custommade dental guard. “What else is there to say?” Celtics coach Brad Stevens said. “There was a point today where he was not feeling good at all. He’s had a tough day and I thought he was going to really have to gut this one out. “Not only guts it out, he ends up with 50. Pretty impressive.” John Wall led seven doublefigure scorers for the Washington Wizards with 40 points and 13 as-

Smashers and seize the early lead in the six-team ﬁeld vying in the season-opening conference of the league where it all started. But BaliPure coach Roger Gorayeb rued his wards inconsistency and erratic plays with the multi-title mentor hoping the Water Defenders will settle down and play to their true potential. But they will be facing a Pocari Sweat side eager to bounce back from a setback to the Power

Games tomorrow 10 a.m. – Air Force vs Sta. Elena (men’s) 1 p.m. – IEM vs Cignal (men’s) 4 p.m. – Air Force vs Creamline 6:30 p.m. – BaliPure vs Pocari Sweat

Smashers last Sunday, making the 6:30 p.m. clash between a puriﬁed drinking water and a sports drink doubly interesting. Meanwhile, Creamline and Air Force are also expected to provide a

ﬁtting start to another top-notch twinbill in the league backed by Asics and Mikasa with the Alyssa Valdezled Cool Smashers also raring to atone for their stinging setback to the Perlas Spikers, also last Sunday. But Valdez, who rammed in 25 hits against the Perlas squad, will have their hands full against the resurgent Jet Spikers, who evened their card at 1-1 with a thrilling of a ﬁve-setter win over the Perlas Lady Spikers late Tuesday.

FOREST Hills topped Class A with a 151 while Tagaytay Highlands swept the two other divisions with 149 and 141, respectively, as they dominated the opener of the 2017 WGAP Circuit at Wack Wack Golf and Country Club recently. Yun Haeng Cho ﬁred 45 points under the Stableford scoring system, Jonah Ilagan put in 38 points while Ma. Consuelo Conti and Mi Jin Lim churned out identical 34 points for the Antipolo-based squad’s 151 aggregate, four clear of Villamor, which placed second with a 147. Nora delos Santos shot 41 points, Denise Tambuatco made 37 points while Ester Fasol and Arline Ward added 35 and 34 points, respectively, for Villamor while Sta. Elena settled for third with a 146, led by Wilhermina Attwood’s 41 points, which also netted her the Class A individual crown. Other scorers for Sta. Elena were Carmela Lee, Carina Ricamonte and Lily Chan, who ﬁred 36, 35 and 34 points, respectively. Tagaytay came in fourth with a 145 followed by defending overall cham-

pion Alabang, which assembled a 144, Orchard (135), Canlubang (134), Camp Aguinaldo (107) and Eagle Ridge (86) in that order. But Tagaytay bounced back strong in the lower divisions, pooling a 149 to clinch the Class B crown and scoring a 141 for the Class C diadem in the annual event organized and conducted by the Women’s Golf Association of the Philippines. Rosario Dimson came away with 39 points while Bernadette Wong, Marissa Vergara and Emalina Flores backed her up with 38, 37 and 35 points, respectively, as the Highlanders foiled Forest Hills (144) by five points. Cristina Ojeda fired 40 points to snare the Class B individual plum and lead Forest Hills which also drew 36 points from Eun Suk Park, a 35 from Marissa Obsuna and a 33 from So Han Uy. Villamor finished third with 137 points while host Wack Wack turned in a 125 and nipped Alabang (125) in the countback for fourth followed by Camp Aguinaldo (124), Canlubang (117) and Orchard (114).

PSL beach volley starts AN ACTION-PACKED reunion takes shape as UAAP stars renew their rivalry on the sand at the start of the 2017 Belo Philippine Superliga Beach Volleyball Challenge Cup today at the SM By the Bay in Mall of Asia. The stars of FEU and UST— Bernadeth Pons and Sisi Rondina— will join forces for Petron Sprint 4T as they battle former La Salle stalwarts Cyd Demecillo and Fritz Gallenero of F2 Logistics A in the 8 p.m. nightcap of this annual tourney bankrolled by Stoked, Mikasa, Mizuno, Senoh, Rebisco and SM By the Bay. Prior to that, Jovelyn Gonzaga will kick off her title-retention campaign when she and fellow veteran Maica Morada of Cignal A battle GenerikaAyala B of Rosalie Pepito and Kat

Arado at 7 p.m., while Kathleen Barrinuevo and Cherilyn Sindayen of Foton take on Ces Molina and Bang Pineda of Petron XCS at 6 p.m., Mylene Paat and Janine Marciano of Cignal B wage war against powerhouse Generika-Ayala A of Fiola Ceballos and Patty Orendain at 5 p.m., F2 Logistics A clashes with Wensh Tiu and Abie Nuval of Cocolife at 4 p.m., and Marijo Medalla and Bianca Tripoli of Perpetual Help battles Generika Ayala B at 3 p.m. In the men’s side, Wayuk tip things off when it faces IEM A at 7:30 a.m. followed by the battle between IEM B and SM By the Bay at 8:20 a.m., Cignal HD and University of Perpetual Help B at 9:10 a.m., Generika-Ayala and Wayuk at 10 a.m., SM By the Bay and TVM at 10:50 a.m. and Perpetual Help B and IEM A at 11:40 a.m.

Business

Govt may revive National Steel B3

Razon sees Trump as big risk to trade By Norman Aquino and Ian Sayson

S President Donald Trump’s unpredictability and nationalist policies have become the biggest risk to global trade, billionaire and port operator Enrique Razon said.

“There are dark clouds gathering,” Razon, chairman and president of International Container Terminal Services Inc., said in an interview on Monday with Bloomberg Television’s Haslinda Amin in Los Angeles. “The US has created the largest part of the uncertainty in an already uncertain future,” he said, referring to the US leader’s protectionist moves including a proposed border-adjustment tax and his earlier threats to pull out of the World Trade Organization and North American Free Trade Agreement. House Speaker Paul Ryan has been pushing to replace corporate income tax

with a tax on businesses’ domestic sales and imports, exempting exports. The border-adjustment tax proposal raised alarm bells among importers in the US, as well as government ofﬁcials in Mexico as they feared it would reduce shipments north of the border. Trump in April signed an executive order that threatens to review and “renegotiate or terminate” America’s trade agreements― including its participation in the WTO―if they are found to harm US interests. Last week, he also threatened to withdraw from Nafta, but later said, after speaking with the leaders of Canada and Mexico, he would seek to renegotiate. While Trump has backtracked on some positions “he keeps changing what he is saying,” Razon, 57, said. “I don’t even know if his people know exactly what he’s really gonna do.” Still, Razon said his company is willing to invest $500 million to $1 billion to build a terminal in every country in western and eastern Africa, a continent he considers the most immune to any globalization shifts. “Barriers to entry are very high there but once you are in, it has the best margins in our industry,” he said.

Rising anti-globalization hasn’t affected International Container’s port operations in the ﬁrst quarter, with trade growing in almost every region where it has a presence, Razon said. The company operates in Asia, Africa, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East and Australia. Razon, who also chairs Bloomberry Resorts Corp., said Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s Beijing trip, which yielded $24 billion in investment pledges in October, has paid off with Chinese tourists more than doubling and feeding growth in the Philippine casino industry. “The market has been growing tremendously in the last two, three years so the bet is paying off,” Razon said. “We are making more money. We are seeing huge growth from visitations in China,” he said, adding he expects to sustain growth of as much as 40 percent in VIP volume at its Solaire Resort and Casino on Manila Bay. One of the risks to his gambling business is if the Chinese government succeeds in curtailing the movement of VIP funds, which could slow the sector, something that Macau’s casino industry had to endure during an anti-corruption crackdown, Razon said. Bloomberg

MAGAT’S 10TH ANNIVERSARY.

Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi (third from right) leads the 10th anniversary celebration of SN Aboitiz PowerMagat Inc. on April 26, 2017 in Ramon, Isabela. Shown with Cusi during the ceremonial switchon for Magat hydro scale model are (from left) Mayor Norma Miguel of Diadi, Nueva Vizcaya; Mayor Glen Prudenciano of Alfonso Lista, Ifugao; Mayor Jesus Laddaran of Ramon, Isabela; SNAP president and chief executive Joseph Yu; and Norway Ambassador Erik Forner.

Ray S. Eñano, Editor Roderick T. dela Cruz, Assistant Editor business@manilastandard.net extrastory2000@gmail.com

IN BRIEF Govt extends Smart’s franchise by 25 years

PLDT Inc. said Wednesday the congressional franchise of its wireless unit was extended for another 25 years. “PLDT was formally notified today [Wednesday] of the approval of the law by the Office of the President,” the country’s largest telecom company said. The said franchise law, which effectively extends Smart’ Communications Inc.’s franchise until 2042, will take effect 15 days after publication in newspapers of general circulation. Smart’s franchise expired in March. Its parent firm, PLDT earlier reported a net income of P20.16 billion last year, down by 9 percent from P22.07 billion in 2015. PLDT’s core profit also fell 21 percent to P27.9 billion on higher spending to support its fixed mobile network expansion. PLDT’s consolidated service revenues amounted to P165.26 billon last year, down by 3.4 percent from P171.10 billion in 2015. Darwin G. Amojelar

PAL set to launch Bohol-Korea ﬂights

PHILIPPINE Airlines said Wednesday it will mount direct flights from Tagbilaran City in Bohol province to Incheon and Clark next month as a part of the flag carrier’s continuing route expansion. PAL said by June 22, Tagbilaran would become the sixth local city to be linked to an international destination as PAL would mount chartered service to Incheon. PAL currently operates international flights out of Manila, Cebu, Clark, Kalibo and Puerto Princesa. The Tagbilaran-Clark flights, which will start June 23, provide tourists with direct access to central Luzon and central Visayas without having to endure Metro Manila’s traffic. PAL carried 13.4 million passengers in 2016, up from 11.9 million in 2015. Darwin G. Amojelar

Vivant venturing into solar projects

LISTED company Vivant Corp. said wholly-owned subsidiary Vivant Energy Corp. and a partner is venturing into the solar rooftop business. Vivant said in a disclosure to the stock exchange it signed a shareholders agreement with ET Energy Pilipinas Holding Corp. to form a joint venture company that would develop rooftop solar installations on com-

THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017

mercial and industrial sites in the Philippines. “VEC shall own 60 percent, while ETPHC shall own 40 own equity in the JVC,” Vivant said. Vivant is majority controlled by the Garca-Escano family of Cebu. The company has equity investments in Cebu Private Power Corp., owner of the 70-megawatt diesel-ﬁred power plant in Cebu and Cebu Energy Development Corp., which owns the 246-MW coal-ﬁred power plant in Toledo City. Alena Mae S. Flores

Cebu Paciﬁc starts Puerto Princesa hub

CEBU Pacific said it will start operations in the new terminal of the Puerto Princesa International Airport which can accommodate over 1,000 passengers. Cebu Pacific is the largest carrier operating in and out of Puerto Princesa, with a total of 550 flights to and from the capital of Palawan weekly via three major hubs: Manila, Cebu and Iloilo. The budget carrier flew the most number of passengers to and from Puerto Princesa last year, garnering over 50 percent of the total market share. CEB will be increasing the capacity of its flights to and from Puerto Princesa, upgrading from the 180-seater Airbus A320 to the Airbus A321 NEOs with a 230 seating capacity. “We are positive that with this expansion, we will be able to help achieve the government’s goal of increasing tourist arrivals to Palawan. With the new airport able to handle international flights, it now makes Puerto Princesa attractive for direct connections to and from key foreign tourist markets,” Cebu Pacific vice president for corporate affairs JR Mantaring said. Darwin G. Amojelar

MPIC, govt in talks over toll adjustments

THE tollway unit of Metro Pacific Investments Corp. said it is in talks with the Duterte administration over the implementation of overdue toll increases at the expressways in the south and north of Manila. Under the Aquino administration, sizable pending tariff adjustments accumulated on all Metro Pacific Tollways Corp.’s toll roads through successive failure to raise tariffs. Metro Pacific Tollway said on the North Luzon Expressway, the tariff increases now amount to 20 percent for the open system and 32 percent for the closed system. It said on the Manila Cavite Expressway the increases amount to 25 percent on R1 and 42 percent on the R1 Extension; and on the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway, they amount to 48 percent. Darwin G. Amojelar

Manila

Standard TOYOTA FINANCIAL SERVICES PHILIPPINES CORPORATION TODAY 32nd Floor

G. T. Tower International, Ayala Avenue corner H. V. dela Costa Street,Salcedo Village, 1227 Makati City

STATEMENT OF CONDITION As of March 31, 2017 ASSETS Due from Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas P Deposit in Banks GS Purchased Under Reverse Repurchase Agreement with BSP GS Purchased Under RRA Sold Under Resale Agreement Loans and Receivables (Net) (Long-Term Portion of P 44,709,056,823) Available-for-Sale Securities (Net) Real Estate for Sale/Lease (Net) Real Property, Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment (Net) Real and Other Properties Acquired (Net) Other Assets (Net) TOTAL ASSETS P

9,031,753,912 532,325,254 0 0 45,981,071,248 0 1,200,000 0 108,131,467 120,560,362 2,966,909,283 58,741,951,526

LIABILITIES

Maynilad set to unload 10% stake for P12b By Jenniffer B. Austria MAYNILAD Water Services Inc., the water concessionaire for the west zone of Metro Mania, is set to get a new minority investor, an executive said Wednesday. Maynilad’s parent company Metro Pacific Investments Corp. is in talks with an Asian company for the sale of roughly 10-percent in the water company for P12 billion. “We are in discussion with a party at the moment. If we are in agreement, we hope we could sign a provisional term sheet over the next two to three weeks,” Metro Pacific chief finance officer David Nicol said. “Then it will be subject to confirmation and due diligence which gives them 90 days,” he said. The sale will reduce Metro Pacific’s stake in Maynilad to 42.8 percent from the current 52.8 percent, making it still the single biggest shareholder. Other major investors in Maynilad are Japanese trading firm Marubeni Corp. and DMCI Holdings, which own 20 percent and 16 percent, respectively. Nicol said the terms of the sale was on the premise that the current arbitration case involving the water company would be resolved soon in favor of Maynilad. Maynilad in 2014 received a favorable award in the arbitration of its 2013 to 2017 water tariff which centered on corporate income taxes being a recoverable expense. State-run Metropolitan Waterworks and Services System had not yet implemented the awarded tariff increase, saying it would await clarification from the Supreme Court before proceeding.

Regional Bids and Awards Committee - Caraga Region San Francisco Public Market Mall Center Island Street, San Francisco, Agusan del Sur Telephone No. (085) 839-0333 Email: rbaccaraga@gmail.com

INVITATION TO BID

The Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK) through its Regional Bids and Awards Committee - Caraga Region (RBAC-Caraga), invites Rural Banks and Cooperatives to bid for the hereunder project: Approved Budget for the Contract Non-Refundable Fee (ABC)

Items

Delivery Period

ITB No. RBAC Caraga - CCT 2017 (B) Service fees for the distribution of DSWD Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) Program cash grants to Non-Cash Card beneficiaries in various Municipalities for May 2017 to March 2018 payouts (Regional Coverage B): Note: Bid shall be on a per Province basis. SURIGAO DEL SUR 7,870 Beneficiaries/Payout • Barobo, Bayabas, Cagwait, Cantilan, Carmen, Carrascal, Cortes, Hinatuan, Lanuza, Lianga, Lingig, Madrid, Marihatag, San Agustin, San Miguel, Tagbina

1,339,902.00

670.00

Six (6) payouts (May, July, September & November 2017 and January & March 2018)

Prospective bidders should have experience in undertaking a similar project within the last five (5) years from the date of submission and receipts of bids, with an amount of at least 50% of the ABC. The Eligibility Check/Screening as well as the Preliminary Examination of Bids shall use non-discretionary “pass/fail” criteria. Post-qualification of the lowest calculated bid shall be conducted. All particulars relative to Eligibility Statement and Screening, Bid Security, Performance Security, Pre-Bidding Conference(s), Evaluation of Bids, Post Qualification and Award of Contract shall be governed by the pertinent provisions of R.A. 9184 and its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRRs). The complete schedule of activities is listed, as follows: ACTIVITIES

SCHEDULE

1. Issuance of Bid Documents 2. Pre-Bid Conference 3. Submission of plan on securing the money before, during and after the payout against theft or robbery, loss and other fortuitous events and opening of deposit accounts with LANDBANK for crediting and debiting of cash grants 4. Submission and Opening of Bids 5. Post Qualification 6. Awarding by RBAC 7. Head of Procuring Entitiy (HOPE)’s approval 8. Notice of Award 9. Performance Bond 10. Notice to Proceed

April 26 to May 17, 2017 May 4, 2017 (10:00 A.M.) May 11 to 18, 2017 May 18, 2017 May 19 to 23, 2017 May 24 to 26, 2017 May 29 to 30, 2017 May 31 to June 1, 2017 June 2 to 6, 2017 June 7, 2017

Bills Payable Accrued Taxes and Other Expenses Deposit for Future Subscription Other Liabilities

49,286,534,228 425,789,116 1,200,000,000 2,777,882,572

53,690,205,916

Capital Stock Retained Earnings Sub - Total Less: Treasury Stock TOTAL CAPITAL ACCOUNTS

1,700,000,000 3,351,745,610 5,051,745,610 0 5,051,745,610

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND CAPITAL ACCOUNTS

58,741,951,526

TOTAL LIABILITIES CAPITAL ACCOUNTS

COMMITMENT AND OTHER CONTINGENT ACCOUNTS Other Contingent Accounts Note: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

REGIONAL BIDS AND AWARDS COMMITTEE CARAGA REGION

Held for Trading Securities comprise of Government Securities of P0 and Equity Securities - Common Shares of P0 Non-performing loans and ratio to total loan portfolio: P 754,144,432 ;1.35% Classified loans and other risk assets: P 2,184,530,252 General loan loss reserve: P 545,633,254 Specific loan loss reserve: P582,960,046 Return on equity (ROE): 9.29% DOSRI loans/advances and ratio to total loan portfolio: None Past due DOSRI loans/advances and ratio to total portfolio: None Deposit for Future Subscription is recognized as Equity per BSP Circular No. 762 pending BSP approval and submission of application for Amendment of Articles of Incorporation with SEC.

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES) We, Ma. Fe S. Medrano, Assistant Vice-President and Atsushi Murakami, President of the above-mentioned NBQB, do solemnly swear that all matters set forth in the statement of condition are true and correct to the best of our knowledge and belief. (Sgd.) MA. FE S. MEDRANO Assistant Vice-President

(Sgd.) ATSUSHI MURAKAMI President

SUBSCRIBED AND SWORN to before me this 2nd day of May 2017, affiants exhibiting to me their Driver’s License No. N0410001084 issued at Manila and Passport No. TZ1056363 issued at Japan.

Bid Documents will be available at LANDBANK San Francisco Branch only to prospective bidders upon payment of the applicable non-refundable amount to the LANDBANK San Francisco Branch Cashier. The Bank reserves the right to (1) reject any and all bids at any time prior to the award of the contract; (2) waive any minor formal requirements in the bid documents; (3) accept such bids it may consider advantageous and beneficial to the Bank, without thereby incurring any liability to the affected bidder or bidders.

Doc. No. 445 Page No. 89 Book No. VIII Series of 2017

(Sgd.) TEODORO D. VILLAPEÑA, JR. Notary Public for Makati City Appointment No. M-427/until 31 Dec. 2017 42/F GT Tower Int’l Ayala Avenue corner Dela Costa Street, Salcedo Village, Makati City IBP No. 1056271-01/04/17-Batangas PTR No. 5909853-01/04/17-Makati MCLE Compliance No. V-0016626 Roll No. 47647

Business

THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017 extrastory2000@gmail.com

SM Prime pegs rates of P20-bond offering By Jenniffer B. Austria PROPERTY developer SM Prime Holdings Inc. set the interest rate of its P20-billion seven-year bond offering at 5.1683 percent per annum. SM Prime said in a disclosure to the stock exchange it planned to issue P15-billion Series G bonds, with an option to issue an additional P5 billion. The retail bonds will be offered to investors through underwriters on May 4 to May 11, following the receipt of the permit to sell from the Securities and Exchange Commission. The retail bonds, to be listed with the Philippine Dealing and Exchange Corp., are set to be issued on May 18. “The proceeds of the retail bonds will enable SM Prime to pursue our expansions of mall and residential businesses, which are the growth drivers of the company,” SM Prime president Jeffrey Lim said. This series of SM Prime bonds due 2024 is the fourth offering of peso-denominated retail bonds to the public. Similar to its previous bond issues, the SM Prime Series G bonds were rated PRS Aaa by Philippine Rating Services Corp. PRS Aaa is the highest rating assigned by PhilRatings. This rating is given to long-term debt securities with the smallest degree of investment risk.

Stock market retreats; mining issues advance S tocks retreated Wednesday, tracking the movement of Asian markets as investors await the Federal Reserve’s policy meeting later in the day and the release of key US jobs data at the end of the week.

The Philippine Stock Exchange index, the 30-company benchmark, shed 20 points, or 0.3 percent, to close at 7,682.26 as ﬁve of the six major sectors declined. Only the mining and oil sector posted gains Wednesday, after the Commission on Appointments rejected the designation of Environment Secretary Regina Lopez

who ordered the closure of dozens of mines in the country. The heavier index, representing all shares, lost 1 point to settle at 4,603.12, on a value turnover of P6.4 billion. Advancers outnumbered losers, 98 to 92, while 52 issues were unchanged. Nine of the 20 most active stocks ended in the green,

led by Apex Mining Company Inc. which jumped 18.2 percent to P1.88. Other miners also climbed as investors welcomed reports that lawmakers thumbed down Lopez’s appointment. Benguet Corp. advanced 15.6 percent to P20.8, while Lepanto Consolidated Mining Company rose 8.4 percent to P0.206. Meanwhile, most Asian markets closed lower Wednesday amid thin trading as Tokyo, Hong Kong and Seoul were closed for public holidays. While the Fed is not expected to raise interest rates, with policymakers taking note of a recent run of weak indicators, its post-meeting statement will be parsed for clues about plans for

MANILA STANDARD BUSINESS DAILY STOCKS REVIEW WEDNESDAY, MAY 3, 2017

NAME

OPEN

VALUE

NET FOREIGN BUYING/(SELLING), PHP

FINANCIALS 3.2 56,000 49 12,600 104.3 663,750 4.13 5,000 120.8 1,221,560 1.4 895,000 35.35 925,000 16.2 6,500 22.9 2,176,300 0.67 54,000 1.7 4,000 0.67 4,580,000 84.65 548,260 0.71 245,000 16.18 53,300 25.05 2,900 63.8 427,130 242 5,360 115 180 90 160 55.9 2,263,160 214.4 376,270 1,720 5 80.5 102,230 1.22 1,000

176,980 617,405 69,269,824 20,350 147,735,502 1,199,610 32,642,255 106,564 50,073,640 37,200 6,580 3,048,440 46,403,738 173,240 852,818 72,645 27,286,000 1,287,060 20,800 14,409.50 126,085,413.50 80,661,136 8,600 8,237,241 1,220

529,250 -35,394,756 12,390 4,519,042 3,376,715 -17,766,120.00 -660,000 6,200,046.50 20,420 5,304,290 -40,116,590.50 -13,710,028 0 -

41.85 5.88 0.81 1.37 18.7 0.265 99.05 7.08 16.7 23.25 14.08 73.25 83 1.9 5.71 11.86 12.76 9.85 6.35 6.06 1.69 21.15 72.15 12.38 15.14 7.83 1.57 213.2 73.3 4.86 3.74 31.95 23.25 18.72 279 0.245 6.4 3.69 9.1 3.5 11.34 2.14 9.18 2 72 5.6 295.2 4.84 2.83 13.76 4.47 0.149 1.38 173.5 1.6 32.95 1

INDUSTRIAL 42 567,100 6.07 4,142,000 0.83 215,000 1.37 6,146,000 18.72 4,300 0.29 56,740,000 108.5 60 7.15 19,091,200 16.86 1,038,200 23.35 910,700 14.08 3,200 76 220 83 150 1.9 546,000 5.8 34,300 11.86 29,800 12.82 1,992,000 9.98 1,593,500 6.4 1,013,300 6.06 16,667,500 1.69 2,000 21.2 2,608,400 72.25 142,030 12.38 2,100 15.26 9,900 7.9 7,120,700 1.57 322,000 213.2 1,049,720 77 1,500 4.86 822,000 3.76 17,000 32.05 3,649,900 23.45 138,400 19.1 930,200 279 208,550 0.246 8,230,000 6.4 41,200 3.7 1,572,000 9.14 6,695,400 3.5 2,000 11.38 15,800 2.15 6,259,000 9.2 2,950,500 2.06 784,000 72.2 189,280 5.7 288,400 300 65,050 4.88 34,000 2.88 261,000 13.78 774,400 4.5 23,000 0.154 8,480,000 1.38 116,000 174.2 914,800 1.61 4,501,000 44 11,600 1.03 170,000

23,811,235 24,836,486 178,210 8,580,620 82,258 16,169,050 6,037.50 136,415,554 17,502,146 21,219,310 45,144 16,399.50 12,600 1,044,410 199,957 354,164 25,533,494 15,953,348 6,469,106 101,029,470 3,380 55,458,310 10,260,545 25,998 151,792 56,475,937 506,110 224,455,508 112,553.50 4,033,290 63,890 116,962,845 3,257,320 17,612,448 58,280,092 2,037,160 263,730 5,816,250 61,545,671 7,000 179,572 13,441,860 27,419,391 1,607,220 13,671,446 1,647,281 19,509,670 165,400 745,870 10,722,008 103,080 1,294,310 162,040 159,222,545 7,302,850 427,115 172,800

-5,706,045 264,372 -6,066,260 -48,000 -111,150 -50,402,949 15,184,372 8,790 66,930 32,070 -14,439,064 -1,024,601.00 -985,339 1,550,726 -3,053,065 4,788,405 -71,156 -12,710,707 101,913,046 7,700 -240 41,346,235.00 -2,524,475 3,108,470 -2,736,038 73,930 10,650,173 9,756,000 -6,339,332 -93,250 3,057,044.50 1,111,638 -7,800,000 87,720 6,455,042 -79,880 -69,520 36,598,013 -130,430 31,185 -

0.375 77.6 14.36 1.15 6.23 0.435 0.435 873 8.35 13.08 8 5.46 0.21 1,253 6.45 84.1 1.07 7.51 16.54 6.69 3.5 0.057 1.05 1.88 2.49 109.5 2.85 751 0.9 1.4 300 0.305 0.27

0.365 75.6 14.1 1.11 6.12 0.415 0.41 868 8.15 12.96 7.98 5.46 0.205 1,215 6.44 83.1 1 7.38 16.02 6.59 3.2 0.056 1 1.88 2.49 108.1 2.68 744 0.85 1.38 298 0.29 0.25

HOLDING FIRMS 0.37 1,030,000 76.65 835,890 14.16 6,265,900 1.15 118,000 6.23 7,300 0.43 57,820,000 0.425 3,160,000 868 202,340 8.22 991,200 12.96 9,357,800 8 220,800 5.46 18,000 0.205 600,000 1,215 72,195 6.45 133,800 83.4 1,329,660 1.03 8,552,000 7.42 427,300 16.02 2,878,000 6.6 15,424,000 3.5 13,000 0.057 36,260,000 1.01 101,000 1.88 13,000 2.49 32,000 109.5 127,230 2.79 89,000 745 210,970 0.9 51,000 1.4 39,000 298.8 4,410 0.29 800,000 0.265 2,030,000

378,000 64,033,740.50 88,888,144 134,570 44,909 24,311,450 1,333,400 175,866,210 8,194,242 121,664,460 1,762,984 98,280 124,550 88,099,300 862,995 110,988,118 8,893,180 3,184,793 47,186,198 102,251,789 41,950 2,051,380 102,750 24,440 79,680 13,857,793 242,280 157,728,390 44,860 54,120 1,318,710 236,000 535,900

-7,836,074.50 -28,090,246 64,500 81,711,640 3,850,927 5,170,954 487,578 -56,923,020 14,903,812.50 103,000 -773,058 18,849,686 -30,517,099 -191,687 85,284,885 -203,396 -3,050 -155,900

6.81 1.11 2.33 1.39 35.65 4.28 5.3 0.52 1.01 1.42 0.161 0.54 52 0.7 0.184 1.78 0.98 1.07 4.17 0.47

6.8 1.07 2.26 1.34 35.4 4.18 5.28 0.5 1.01 1.33 0.158 0.52 51.2 0.7 0.179 1.75 0.97 1.04 4.11 0.43

966,092 2,972,840 641,540 15,353,640 716,091,310 7,288,460 833,747 6,862,590 4,040 1,236,640 1,598,910 1,850,060 6,931,688 82,600 352,600 15,633,270 1,110,860 528,120 93,763,360 151,180,800

-535,499 1,598,760 -179,552,435 -814,660 730 138,000 604,840 1,495,138.50 8,026,230 0 31,200 9,297,710 -8,018,000

HIGH

LOW

AG FINANCE 3.1 ASIA UNITED 49.05 BANK PH ISLANDS 104.4 BDO LEASING 3.98 BDO UNIBANK 120.8 BRIGHT KINDLE 1.24 CHINABANK 35.4 COL FINANCIAL 16.52 EAST WEST BANK 22.9 FIRST ABACUS 0.69 IREMIT 1.63 MEDCO HLDG 0.68 METROBANK 84.6 NTL REINSURANCE 0.71 PB BANK 16 PBCOM 25.05 PHIL NATL BANK 63.75 PHIL STOCK EXCH 240 PHILTRUST 116 PSBANK 90.5 RCBC 54.45 SECURITY BANK 214.6 SUN LIFE 1,720 UNION BANK 79.75 VANTAGE 1.22

3.2 49.05 104.6 4.13 121.6 1.4 35.4 16.52 23.3 0.69 1.7 0.68 85.4 0.71 16.18 25.05 64.1 242 116 90.5 56.85 216.6 1,720 81 1.22

3.1 48.6 104.2 3.98 120.5 1.24 35.2 16.2 22.85 0.67 1.62 0.66 84.4 0.7 16 25.05 63.15 240 115 90 54.45 214 1,720 79.2 1.22

ABOITIZ POWER 42 AGRINURTURE 5.92 ALLIANCE SELECT 0.81 ALSONS CONS 1.43 ASIABEST GROUP 19.12 BASIC ENERGY 0.27 BOGO MEDELLIN 99.05 CEMEX HLDG 7.23 CENTURY FOOD 16.9 CIRTEK HLDG 23.3 CNTRL AZUCARERA14.14 CONCEPCION 73.25 CONCRETE A 86 CROWN ASIA 1.93 DAVINCI CAPITAL 5.71 DEL MONTE 11.9 DNL INDUS 13 EEI CORP 10.2 EMPERADOR 6.4 ENERGY DEVT 6.1 EUROMED 1.69 FIRST GEN 21.3 FIRST PHIL HLDG 72.5 GINEBRA 12.38 HOLCIM 15.14 INTEGRATED MICR 7.83 IONICS 1.58 JOLLIBEE 215.8 LIBERTY FLOUR 81 LMG CHEMICALS 4.88 MABUHAY VINYL 3.74 MANILA WATER 32.05 MAXS GROUP 23.6 MEGAWIDE 19 MERALCO 279.4 MG HLDG 0.255 PANASONIC 6.4 PEPSI COLA 3.7 PETRON 9.25 PHIL H2O 3.5 PHINMA 11.4 PHINMA ENERGY 2.14 PHX PETROLEUM 9.2 PHX SEMICNDCTR 2.05 PILIPINAS SHELL 73.1 PRYCE CORP 5.78 PUREFOODS 301 RFM CORP 4.84 ROXAS HLDG 2.83 SHAKEYS PIZZA 13.98 SPC POWER 4.47 SWIFT FOODS 0.15 TKC METALS 1.4 UNIV ROBINA 174 VITARICH 1.66 VIVANT 32.95 VULCAN INDL 1.01

42.35 6.07 0.83 1.49 19.2 0.295 108.5 7.25 16.9 23.35 14.14 76.95 86 1.93 5.9 11.98 13 10.2 6.45 6.12 1.69 21.5 72.5 12.38 15.5 8.03 1.58 216 81 4.99 3.77 32.5 23.8 19.1 281.8 0.255 6.45 3.72 9.25 3.5 11.4 2.16 9.5 2.1 73.1 5.78 301 4.88 2.88 14.06 4.5 0.155 1.41 174.8 1.66 45 1.03

ABACORE CAPITAL 0.375 ABOITIZ EQUITY 77.6 ALLIANCE GLOBAL 14.36 ANGLO PHIL HLDG 1.11 ANSCOR 6.16 ATN HLDG A 0.415 ATN HLDG B 0.415 AYALA CORP 868 COSCO CAPITAL 8.35 DMCI HLDG 12.96 FILINVEST DEV 7.98 FJ PRINCE A 5.46 FORUM PACIFIC 0.21 GT CAPITAL 1,248 HOUSE OF INV 6.44 JG SUMMIT 83.9 LODESTAR 1.02 LOPEZ HLDG 7.51 LT GROUP 16.26 METRO PAC INV 6.65 MJC INVESTMENTS 3.22 PACIFICA 0.057 PRIME MEDIA 1.04 PRIME ORION 1.88 REPUBLIC GLASS 2.49 SAN MIGUEL CORP 109.5 SEAFRONT RES 2.75 SM INVESTMENTS 744 SOC RESOURCES 0.85 SOLID GROUP 1.38 TOP FRONTIER 300 UNIOIL HLDG 0.29 ZEUS HLDG 0.25 8990 HLDG A BROWN ARANETA PROP ARTHALAND CORP AYALA LAND BELLE CORP CEBU HLDG CENTURY PROP CITY AND LAND CITYLAND DEVT CROWN EQUITIES CYBER BAY DOUBLEDRAGON EMPIRE EAST EVER GOTESCO FILINVEST LAND GLOBAL ESTATE IRC PROP MEGAWORLD MRC ALLIED

6.81 1.1 2.29 1.37 35.5 4.28 5.28 0.5 1.01 1.39 0.158 0.54 51.7 0.7 0.184 1.77 0.98 1.06 4.11 0.46

VOLUME

HIGH

LOW

VOLUME

VALUE

NET FOREIGN BUYING/(SELLING), PHP

0.355 0.61 4.49 25.85 1.78 3.3 30.7 0.98 0.88 5.22

0.37 0.62 4.56 26.05 1.78 3.3 30.9 1 0.9 5.27

0.34 0.6 4.37 25.75 1.76 3.3 30.6 0.98 0.88 5.22

0.355 0.61 4.44 25.9 1.76 3.3 30.6 1 0.88 5.27

3,300,000 5,774,000 378,000 1,168,900 129,000 88,000 13,224,700 2,555,000 117,000 4,123,200

1,149,600 3,496,310 1,670,460 30,251,030 228,640 290,400 406,369,070 2,526,460 103,000 21,668,340

27,750 2,736,120 303,781,905 -6,951,923

2GO GROUP 15.2 ABS CBN 44.4 ACESITE HOTEL 1.53 APC GROUP 0.51 APOLLO GLOBAL 0.044 ASIAN TERMINALS 11.96 BERJAYA 5.31 BLOOMBERRY 9.13 BOULEVARD HLDG 0.093 CALATA CORP 1.94 CEBU AIR 109.8 CENTRO ESCOLAR 10.28 DFNN INC 8.53 FAR EASTERN U 970 GLOBE TELECOM 2,046 GMA NETWORK 6.18 GOLDEN HAVEN 16.5 HARBOR STAR 3.4 IMPERIAL 3.61 INTL CONTAINER 89.2 IPEOPLE 12.06 IPM HLDG 8.99 ISLAND INFO 0.185 ISM COMM 1.35 JACKSTONES 3.7 LBC EXPRESS 15.52 LEISURE AND RES 4.2 LORENZO SHIPPNG 0.97 MACROASIA 4.8 MANILA JOCKEY 2.54 MELCO CROWN 7.35 METRO RETAIL 3.68 NOW CORP 2.78 PACIFIC ONLINE 11.72 PAL HLDG 5.42 PAXYS 3.01 PHIL SEVEN CORP 168 PHILWEB 7.74 PLDT 1,767 PREMIUM LEISURE 1.5 PRMIERE HORIZON 0.415 PUREGOLD 43.25 ROBINSONS RTL 79 SBS PHIL CORP 5.92 SSI GROUP 2.28 STI HLDG 1.05 TRAVELLERS 3.28 WATERFRONT 0.52 WILCON DEPOT 5.37

15.9 44.8 1.53 0.54 0.049 11.96 5.4 9.37 0.095 1.95 109.8 10.28 8.8 970 2,046 6.21 16.5 3.48 4.14 89.2 12.68 9 0.185 1.43 3.8 15.52 4.25 0.97 4.8 2.54 7.58 3.7 2.78 11.82 5.5 3.02 168 7.89 1,767 1.54 0.425 43.25 80.9 6.05 2.28 1.06 3.32 0.55 5.37

14.32 44.3 1.53 0.51 0.044 11.5 5.3 9.13 0.09 1.9 107.1 10.28 8.53 970 2,000 6.18 16.16 3.19 3.61 87.2 12 8.99 0.181 1.35 3.6 15.4 4.17 0.97 4.5 2.4 7.33 3.59 2.71 11.52 5.35 2.99 168 7.73 1,710 1.5 0.41 42.9 79 5.88 2.2 1.03 3.26 0.51 5.25

SERVICES 15.1 2,124,800 44.5 174,400 1.53 13,000 0.53 1,204,000 0.049 324,200,000 11.5 5,300 5.4 3,600 9.31 4,280,600 0.091 159,520,000 1.93 3,759,000 107.4 216,250 10.28 300 8.8 25,100 970 170 2,000 120,015 6.2 545,400 16.5 64,600 3.26 6,955,000 3.71 868,000 88 693,620 12 107,600 9 343,000 0.182 6,150,000 1.4 825,000 3.76 52,000 15.4 44,400 4.25 722,000 0.97 3,000 4.5 993,000 2.5 371,000 7.4 5,198,600 3.59 2,053,000 2.71 4,359,000 11.74 96,200 5.5 11,500 3.02 116,000 168 200 7.73 201,800 1,728 103,250 1.5 4,224,000 0.415 4,070,000 43 1,853,300 79 178,240 6 218,600 2.27 3,655,000 1.03 7,640,000 3.28 291,000 0.53 7,685,000 5.28 8,126,700

32,304,418 7,766,415 19,890 635,830 15,222,200 62,698 19,170 39,690,411 14,681,150 7,228,230 23,425,011 3,084 219,330 164,900 241,199,000 3,380,367 1,061,856 23,003,150 3,352,600 61,070,830 1,297,062 3,084,500 1,118,680 1,154,380 193,650 684,104 3,031,330 2,910 4,519,170 924,010 38,659,452 7,439,520 11,898,640 1,132,934 62,080 347,910 33,600 1,563,733 178,546,360 6,357,750 1,682,400 79,691,820 14,204,410.50 1,296,967 8,188,130 7,921,700 953,720 4,037,080 42,949,311

1,297,718 -315,000 -35,400 21,822,604 188,420 -1,890 7,618,765 42,650 -140,827,590 64,000 34,290 20,162,029 174,324 91,000 -139,050 2,519,879 -2,610,580 153,860 27,890 -171,296 -197,995 1,003,050 124,500 -11,000,230 12,523,671 3,091,920 900,840 -105,240 -158,000 18,576,300

ABRA MINING APEX MINING ATLAS MINING ATOK BENGUET A BENGUET B CENTURY PEAK COAL ASIA HLDG DIZON MINES FERRONICKEL GEOGRACE LEPANTO A LEPANTO B MANILA MINING A MANILA MINING B MARCVENTURES NICKEL ASIA NIHAO ORNTL PENINSULA ORNTL PETROL A PETROENERGY PHILODRILL PX MINING PXP ENERGY SEMIRARA MINING TA PETROLEUM UNITED PARAGON

0.0034 1.62 5.32 13.48 1.8 1.67 0.91 0.43 8.8 2.73 0.255 0.19 0.199 0.012 0.011 1.86 6.7 2.15 0.91 0.011 4 0.013 9.1 3.08 152 2.76 0.0084

0.0035 1.9 5.63 14 2.08 1.95 0.92 0.48 9.09 2.97 0.255 0.224 0.23 0.012 0.013 2.21 7.18 2.35 1.07 0.012 4.05 0.013 9.49 3.18 156 2.76 0.0091

0.0032 1.59 5.32 13.48 1.71 1.67 0.89 0.43 8.41 2.66 0.249 0.187 0.199 0.011 0.011 1.86 6.5 2.15 0.91 0.011 4 0.012 8.55 3.05 152 2.65 0.0084

MINING & OIL 0.0034 1,597,000,000 1.88 56,921,000 5.5 423,800 14 700 2.08 377,000 1.95 37,000 0.91 4,110,000 0.45 11,610,000 8.99 69,700 2.77 23,874,000 0.255 900,000 0.206 141,850,000 0.21 16,260,000 0.011 360,600,000 0.013 173,000,000 2.05 5,641,000 6.71 30,307,400 2.28 323,000 1.03 4,040,000 0.012 12,600,000 4.05 99,000 0.013 36,100,000 9.26 3,970,200 3.13 1,754,000 154.4 1,209,370 2.71 62,000 0.009 19,000,000

5,337,000 99,295,850 2,332,032 9,488 732,760 71,310 3,709,390 5,308,500 604,663 68,289,710 229,030 29,215,230 3,502,680 4,283,400 2,092,400 11,886,920 208,571,517 724,120 3,998,710 139,300 398,030 466,600 36,848,904 5,468,260 186,687,574 168,430 169,400

65,700 1,059,440 -21,953 -2,348,410 25,230 -2,015,820 -71,350 76,010.00 -26,645,126 22,000 68,040 3,032,755 -573,360 13,030,059 -

ABS HLDG PDR AC PREF B1 DD PREF FGEN PREF G GLO PREF P GMA HLDG PDR GTCAP PREF B PCOR PREF 2A PF PREF 2 SFI PREF SMC PREF 2B SMC PREF 2C SMC PREF 2D SMC PREF 2E SMC PREF 2H SMC PREF 2I

44.3 520 104.5 115 525 5.8 1,022 1,068 1,019 2.1 77 81 78 79.5 78.5 79

45 522 105.4 115 525 5.98 1,022 1,068 1,019 2.1 77 81 78 79.5 78.5 79

44.3 520 104.5 115 525 5.8 1,022 1,068 1,019 2.1 76 81 78 79.5 78.5 79

PREFERRED 44.7 133,600 520 3,500 105.4 47,510 115 20,000 525 500 5.95 430,200 1,022 100 1,068 735 1,019 20 2.1 6,000 76 12,350 81 730 78 6,500 79.5 533,300 78.5 1,000 79 112,580

5,984,925 1,820,040 5,003,153 2,300,000 262,500 2,523,605 102,200 784,980 20,380 12,600 940,040 59,130 507,000 42,397,350 78,500 8,893,820

1,269,160 389,785 1,952,487 -

LR WARRANT

2.3

2.34

2.24

WARRANTS 2.29 110,000

249,640

ITALPINAS PHILAB HLDG XURPAS

4.19 6.61 9.03

4.45 6.68 9.03

4.19 6.5 8.58

SME 4.3 6.68 8.6

12,617,340 718,763 64,117,976

-508,220 -14,182,896

128

EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS 127.2 127.4 4,120

524,913

NAME

OPEN

PHIL ESTATES PHIL REALTY PRIMEX CORP ROBINSONS LAND ROCKWELL SHANG PROP SM PRIME HLDG STA LUCIA LAND SUNTRUST HOME VISTA LAND

PROPERTY 6.8 142,000 1.09 2,731,000 2.26 282,000 1.35 11,277,000 35.5 20,158,500 4.22 1,726,000 5.29 157,500 0.51 13,551,000 1.01 4,000 1.37 906,000 0.159 9,990,000 0.54 3,495,000 51.2 134,500 0.7 118,000 0.179 1,950,000 1.78 8,871,000 0.97 1,142,000 1.04 503,000 4.14 22,618,000 0.43 335,900,000

FIRST METRO ETF 127.3

TRADING SUMMARY

FINANCIAL

15,125,690

INDUSTRIAL

170,177,417

HOLDING FIRMS

149,908,084

PROPERTY

466,587,810

SERVICES

570,671,915

MINING & OIL

2,503,027,994

GRAND TOTAL

3,885,868,865

2,907,000 109,000 7,349,300

VALUE 1,893.06 (down) 4.30 648,470,346.92 FINANCIAL INDUSTRIAL 11,373.32 (down) 26.86 1,277,763,296.39 HOLDING FIRMS 7,817,35 (down) 21.46 1,079,444,897.66 PROPERTY 3,373.15 (down) 0.67 SERVICES 1,596.74 (down) 10.14 1,498,086,990.59 MINING & OIL 12,772.82 (up) 339.02 1,150,655,437.34 PSEI 7,682.26 (down) 20.84 680,598,660,8488 All Shares Index 4,603.12 (down) 1.45 6,413,001,582.55 Gainers: 98; Losers: 92; Unchanged: 52; Total: 242

later in the year. “With the big slip in data recently there is no chance they raise rates, but the statement could contain a discussion about the balance sheet taper [which] so many Fed speakers have been talking about recently,” said Greg McKenna, chief market strategist at AxiTrader. Minutes from the bank’s March meeting showed the policy board was considering tightening monetary policy by sucking cash out of the ﬁnancial system, a disclosure which spooked investors early last month. Friday sees the next key event when the US government releases jobs creation ﬁgures for April, which will be used by the Fed to gauge when it will next raise borrowing costs. Shanghai reversed early gains to end down 0.3 percent, Sydney sank one percent and Wellington was 0.2 percent off, while Manila and Jakarta also retreated. Singapore added 0.8 percent and Taipei was slightly higher. Wall Street provided another healthy lead, with the Nasdaq posting yet another record while the Dow and S&P 500 also pushed higher. Markets in Europe closed with healthy gains. With AFP, Bloomberg

CIC posts net profit of P218m APPLIANCE maker Concepcion Industrial Corp. said first-quarter net income grew 19.3 percent to P218.5 million from P182.4 million a year ago, on strong sales across businesses. CIC said in a disclosure to the stock exchange consolidated net sales jumped 15 percent to P3.1 billion in the first quarter, with all segments showing robust growth despite demand softness in the market. “CIC delivered strong top-line and bottom-line performance through strong execution of new product introductions, programs at the trade level, and cost management despite the challenging environment,” CIC president Raul Joseph Concepcion said. “The first three months of the year was marked by slower market growth compared to last year, cost challenges from commodity and raw material price increases, weaker peso and aggressive competition but we were well prepared for it,” he said. The appliance maker said the strong first-quarter sales was driven by a 14-percent growth in the consumer lifestyle solution segment and a 17-percent increase in the building and industrial solutions. CIC said the demand for inverter units and strong commercial order growth continued to push the momentum in the runup to the summer season. Cost of sales and services also rose 12.3 percent to P2 billion on higher commodity prices and depreciation of the peso against the dollar. CIC chief finance and information officer Victoria Betita said the company was cautious at this time as it saw the first-quarter market softness continuing through the first half. “We, however, remain optimistic about our growth prospects in the medium to long term. As such, we will continue to invest in systems and capacity throughout the next two years while ensuring productivity in our dayto-day operations,” Betita said. Jenniffer B. Austria

Business IN BRIEF MPIC bullish on logistics

C O N G L O M E R AT E Metro Pacific Investments Corp. is prepared to spend P8 billion to expand its logistical business through expansions and acquisitions as it expects the new business to be a major contributor to the group. Metro Pacific chief finance officer David Nicol said in a press briefing Wednesday the company was looking at three acquisitions in the logistic business and planned to build greenfield projects, like distribution centers and warehouses. “Over the next couple of years, the expansion rate that our logistic business (would cost) up to P8 billion. Some of that (are) acquisitions and some involve building distribution centers,” Nicol said. Metro Pacific president Jose Ma. K. Lim said the group expects the logistics business to be a major contributor to the conglomerate. “We want to make logistics a major contributor to MPIC. This logistics business was started last year. It would take a year or so get to the size that we want and from there it will continue to grow and become a major player,” Lim said. Jenniffer B. Austria

Demand for BSP auction declines

WEAK demand from investors resulted again in the undersubscription of the month-long term deposits offered by Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas in its weekly auction on Wednesday. Data showed the 28day P140 billion worth of term deposits attracted bids of just P113.97 billion and fetched a weighted average accepted yield of 3.45 percent. The week-long P40billion deposits, meanwhile, drew total bids of P65.50 billion with a weighted average accepted yield of 3.3 percent. The auction resulted in total bids of P179.47 billion, or P53 million short of the total weekly volume of P180 billion. Bangko Sentral Governor Amando Tetangco Jr. cited a strong demand for the 7-day tenor over the 28-day tenor as banks found the relatively high rate for the 7 days attractive. “BSP will continue to monitor bank liquidity positions as some reported that there is lower appetite for the 28 days as they are still reﬁning positions after the long weekend,” Tetangco said in a text message. Julito G. Rada

Galoc oil drilling reviewed

THE Galoc joint venture has demobilized its drilling rig after completing the appraisal of the Galoc-7ST-1 well in northwest Palawan. Nido Petroleum disclosed to the Australian Securities Exchange it completed the demobilization of the rig on May 2 and ended the joint venture contract with drillship DeepSea Metro 1. Nido, which holds a 55.88-percent participating interest in Block C1 of service contract 14 through subsidiary Nido Production Co. and Galoc Production Co. LLC., said the drilling results from both the Galoc-7ST-1 well and Galoc-7 results were being reviewed. “At this stage the Galoc-7ST-1 well results, in combination with the Galoc-7 results, are being evaluated by the company and the results of both wells will be incorporated in the relevant sub-surface models to assess the commerciality of potential phase III development,” Nido managing director Michael Fisher said. Nido earlier said test results from the Galoc-7 well showed “inconclusive” results. Alena Mae S. Flores

THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017 extrastory2000@gmail.com

Govt may revive National Steel By Othel V. Campos

he government may revive National Steel Corp. either as a $5-billion integrated steel facility or a $3-billion rolling steel plant pending the result of an ongoing study by a Korean company, presidential adviser

for economic affairs Ramon Jacinto said Wednesday.

“We are looking at the revival of National Steel, but we have to get through the ﬁnancial hurdle because there are standing loans with the banks. We need the cooperation of the banks,” he said. Another site being proposed for the new steel mill with Philippine Veterans Investment Development Corp. is Misamis Oriental province, which the Jacinto family had earlier considered. The Jacinto family owned a stake in

National Steel until the Marcos government sequestered it in the 70s. “That’s secondary even if we end up not owning it, it’s okay as long as the facility will be constructed. I would rather that foreign investors own most of it but the important thing is we have to build the steel mill already while the President is in power,” Jacinto said. The study will determine if the proposed revival scheme was feasible given the depreciation factor and the ﬁnancial viability of the project. The government would need foreign investor contribution in the form of technology transfer,

said Jacinto, with the funding to be secured through syndicated loans. SteelAsia Manufacuring Corp. has offered to acquire National Steel in a letter recently sent to the Board of Investments. “But SteelAsia is only interested in a certain part of the land so they can put up a plate mill and a structure steel mill for the long product. And they want access to the ports, as well. They still have to deal with the banks and tax liabilities, that has to be settled,” Jacinto said. Real estate taxes of the mothballed have ballooned to P2 billion to 4 billion.

OFFICE OF ThE gOvERNOR

Circular No. 958 Series of 2017

Subject: Amendments to Items 4.1.2 to 4.2.4 of Appendices 75f and Q-59f of the Manual of Regulations for Banks (MORB) and Manual of Regulations for Non-Bank Financial Institutions (MORNBFI), as well as to Subsection X177.9 of MORB and Subsections 4177Q.9, 4196S.9, 4193P.9 and 4196N.9 of MORNBFI– Authentication Controls The Monetary Board, in its Resolution No. 553 dated 30 March 2017, approved the following: 1) amendments to Item 4.1.2 Authentication of Appendices 75f and Q-59f of the Manual of Regulations for Banks (MORB) and Manual of Regulations for NonBank Financial Institutions (MORNBFI), respectively; 2) deletions of second paragraph in Item 4.1.6 Application Security, Item 4.1.8 Controls Over Fund Transfers, and Item 4.2.1 Administration of E-Services Accounts, of Appendices 75f and Q-59f of the MORB and MORNBFI, respectively; 3) Renumbering of Items 4.1.9 to 4.1.11 and Items 4.2.2 to 4.2.4 of Appendices 75f and Q-59f of the MORB and MORNBFI, respectively; and 4) amendments to Subsection X177.9 of the MORB, and Subsections 4177Q.9, 4196S.9, 4193P.9 and 4196N.9 of the MORNBFI. This is in response to the increasing propensity and sophistication of cyber-attacks involving fund transfers, payments, and other transactions via online channels. These amendments align existing regulations, to the extent possible, with leading standards and recognized principles on customer authentication. Section 1. Items 4.1.2 to 4.2.4 of Appendices 75f and Q-59f of the MORB and MORNBFI, respectively, shall be amended to read as follows: “4.1.2 Authentication. The BSFI should use reliable and appropriate authentication methods to validate and verify the identity and authorization of customers. Authentication is facilitated by the use of factors, which are generally classified into three basic groups: a. Knowledge - Something the user knows (e.g., username, password, mobile PIN, card number, account number); b. Possession - Something the user has (e.g., payment card, token, one-time password); and c. Inherence - Something the user is (e.g., biometrics). “As the number of factors increases, the window of compromise becomes more difficult. The use of single factor authentication alone is considered inadequate to address the risks inherent in sensitive communications and/or high-risk transactions. Thus, BSFIs should adopt multi-factor authentication (MFA) or use a minimum of two (2) factors in such instances. This requirement shall apply to online transactions where the risk of compromise is heightened. Sensitive communications and/or high-risk transactions requiring MFA include, among others, the following: a. Enrollment in transactional e-services; b. Payments and transfers to third parties; c. Online remittance, including those for pick-up at the BSFI branches or via door-to-door delivery; d. Account maintenance, including change in account information and contact details; and e. Use of payment cards (e.g., ATM, credit and debit cards) in e-commerce websites. “For transactions that do not require real-time or near real-time authentication/authorization, BSFIs may also opt to use positive confirmation in lieu of MFA. Positive confirmation refers to any form of communication that will enable the BSFI to timely and accurately verify the identity of the requesting customer. The BSFI should use a different communication channel other than the one where the request originated from when confirming sensitive communications and/or high-risk transactions. “The adoption of MFA techniques or positive confirmations for sensitive communications and/or high-risk transactions can increase customer confidence in e-services. In addition, it provides an opportunity for the customers to assist the BSFI in preventing and detecting fraudulent activity. Nevertheless, alternative and less stringent authentication procedures may be considered for the following: a. Small-value payments or other low-risk transactions, provided the same are justified by a transaction risk analysis1 and bounded by prudent thresholds established by the BSFI. The BSFI’s methodology for setting the threshold should be adequately documented and independently validated at least annually; b. Payments and transfers made to pre-enrolled merchants in the bills payment facility and those pre-registered recipients by the customer: Provided, That the BSFI employs a robust and reliable enrollment process for third party merchants and recipients; and c. Transactions between two (2) accounts of the same customer at the same BSFI. “As authentication methods continue to evolve, the BSFI should monitor, evaluate, and adopt sound industry practices to address current and changing risk factors. The authentication process should be consistent with and support the BSFI’s overall security and risk management programs. An effective authentication process should have customer acceptance, reliable performance, scalability to accommodate growth and interoperability with existing systems and future plans as well as appropriate policies, procedures, and controls.” “4.1.3 Non-Repudiation2. x x x “4.1.4 Authorization Controls and Access Privileges. x x x “4.1.5 Confidentiality and Integrity of Information, Transactions and Records. x xx “4.1.6. Application Security. The BSFI should ensure an appropriate x x x

“4.2.2 Incident Response and Management. x x x “4.2.3 Outsourcing Management. x x x” Section 2. All references to BSI in the following sections shall be changed to BSFI: a. Section X177 and its subsections and the related appendices of the MORB; and b. Sections 4177Q, 4196S, 4193P, and 4196N and their subsections and the related appendices of the MORNBFI. Section 3. Subsection X177.9 of the MORB shall be amended to read as follows: Subsection X177.9. Sanctions and Penalties. BSFIs should make available all policies and procedures and other documents/requirements related to the foregoing during onsite examination as well as provide copies thereof to the Bangko Sentral when a written request is made to determine their compliance with this Section. Consistent with Sec. X009, the Bangko Sentral may deploy enforcement actions to promote adherence with the requirements set forth in Sec. X177 and its subsections and bring about timely corrective actions. Any violation of the provisions of this Section, its appendices and annexes, shall subject the BSFI and/or its directors, officers, and/or employees to the monetary and non-monetary sanctions, as provided under existing laws, Bangko Sentral rules and regulations. Enforcement actions shall be imposed on the basis of the overall assessment of BSFI’s ITRMS. Whenever a BSFI’s ITRMS is rated “1” pursuant to Subsection X177.4, the following additional sanctions may be imposed: a. Suspension/revocation of authority to provide electronic products and services; and b. Prohibition against offering/provision of new electronic products and services. On the EMv migration requirement, BSFIs should endeavor to achieve full compliance within a period as may be allowed by the Bangko Sentral. Prior to full compliance, failure on the part of BSFIs to submit and implement their EMv migration plan shall be subject to additional enforcement actions pursuant to Section X009. On the requirement to adopt multifactor authentication techniques for sensitive communications and/or high risk transactions pursuant to Item 4.1.2 of Appendix 75f, the Bangko Sentral may issue directives to improve authentication and authorization procedures for sensitive communications and/or high risk transactions, or impose sanctions to limit the level of or suspend any electronic products and services that are not compliant with such requirements. Section 4. Subsections 4177Q.9/4196S.9/4193P.9/4196N.9 of the MORNBFI shall be amended to read as follows: Subsection 4177Q.9/4196S.9/4193P.9/4196N.9. Sanctions and Penalties. BSFIs should make available all policies and procedures and other documents/requirements related to the foregoing during on-site examination as well as provide copies thereof to the Bangko Sentral when a written request is made to determine their compliance with this Section. Consistent with Sec. 4009Q, the Bangko Sentral may deploy enforcement actions to promote adherence with the requirements set forth in Sec. 4177Q/4196S/4193P/4196N and bring about timely corrective actions. Any violation of the provisions of this Section, its appendices and annexes, shall subject the BSFI and/or its directors, officers, and/or employees to the monetary and non-monetary sanctions, as provided under existing laws, Bangko Sentral rules and regulations. Enforcement actions shall be imposed on the basis of the overall assessment of BSFI’s ITRMS. Whenever a BSFI’s ITRMS is rated “1” pursuant to Subsec. 4177Q.4/4196S.4/4193P.4/4196N.4, the following additional sanctions may be imposed: a. Suspension/revocation of authority to provide electronic products and services; and b. Prohibition against offering/provision of new electronic products and services. On the requirement to adopt multi-factor authentication techniques for sensitive communications and/or high risk transactions pursuant to Item 4.1.2 of Appendix Q-59f, the Bangko Sentral may issue directives to improve authentication and authorization procedures for sensitive communications and/or high risk transactions, or impose sanctions to limit the level of or suspend any electronic products and services that are not compliant with such requirements. Section 5. Transitory Provision. The following provision shall be incorporated as a footnote to Item 4.1.2 of Appendices 75f and Q-59f of the MORB and MORNBFI, respectively: BSFIs shall comply with the foregoing requirements on customer authentication by 30 September 2017. In this regard, a BSFI should be able to show its plan of actions with specific timelines, as well as the status of initiatives being undertaken to fully comply with the provisions of Item 4.1.2 of Appendices 75f and Q-59f of the MORB and MORNBFI, respectively, upon request of the Bangko Sentral starting May 2017. This transitory period, however, should not excuse BSFIs from immediately complying with the MFA requirements imposed by affiliated payment networks.

Comprehensive and effective x x x “4.1.7. Infrastructure and Security Monitoring. x x x “4.1.8 Audit Trail. x x x

Section 6. Effectivity. This Circular shall take effect fifteen (15) calendar days following its publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation. For the Monetary Board:

“4.1.9 Segregation of Duties. x x x

(Sgd.) NESTOR A. ESPENILLA, JR. Officer-in-Charge

“4.1.10 Website Information and Maintenance. x x x 4.2

Administrative and Management Controls

“4.2.1 Service Availability and Business Continuity. x x x

25 April 2017

Transaction risk analysis refers to the evaluation of risk related to a specific transaction taking into account various criteria including, but not limited to,Q customer behavioral transaction pattern, payee profile, nature of product/service to be acquired and transaction value.

Non-repudiation is a means of ensuring that a transferred message has been sent and received by the parties claiming to have sent and received the message. Non-repudiation is a way to guarantee that the sender of a message cannot later deny having sent the message and that the recipient cannot deny having received the message.

Business

Ray S. Eñano, Editor business@manilastandard.net extrastory2000@gmail.com

THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017

US Fed not likely to hike rates

ASHINGTON―The Federal Reserve opened its two-day policy meeting on Tuesday amid signs of softening inflation which eases the pressure to raise interest rates, at least for now. The central bank is not expected to move the benchmark lending rate Wednesday from the current target range of 0.75 percent to one percent. Most economists say the Fed likely will stay the course and hike twice more this year, probably in June and September, despite a weak batch of economic indicators since it last raised rates in March. But a few see low inflation and weak data as justification for the Fed to scale back and raise rates just once more later

this year. The question mark could be whether President Donald Trump follows through on campaign promises for big infrastructure spending programs as well as tax cuts, in a plan released last week, which could fuel faster growth, at least in the short term. “My expectation is that they remain positioned to hike rates in June,” Tim Duy, an economist at the University of Oregon and close Fed watcher, told AFP. “If the data continues to dis-

appoint, they will shift gears. But that is not my expectation.” The central bank has twice raised rates since December, given the steady job creation and some signs of mounting price pressures. But figures released Monday showed the Fed’s preferred measure of inflation, known as PCE, actually retreated and remains below the two percent target, while a key component of the index declined for the first time in 16 years. Weak consumption also held down first-quarter growth to a three-year low of just 0.7 percent, after expansion of 2.1 percent in the final quarter of 2016. While many economists discount the low growth as an anomaly frequently seen in data for the

first quarter of the year, Jason Schenker, of Prestige Economics, said the Fed will be less aggressive than expected. “We continue to believe that the Fed is likely to leave rates unchanged until September 2017,” he said in a research note. He noted the weak consumption in the first quarter―a key driver of economic growth –as well as weak auto sales as key factors. Mizuho Chief US Economist Steven Ricchiuto even questioned whether the Fed had justification for an increase in March. “The Fed moved simply because markets gave them a pass. One more move this year instead of two.” Joel Naroff is one of many who disagree, noting that the econo-

my is at full employment, with the unemployment rate at 4.5 percent, and inflation close to the Fed’s two percent target. “The members can look past the slow growth, especially since the first quarter numbers have been strangely low for quite some time,” Naroff said of the Fed’s policy-setting Federal Open Market Committee. However, he said he expects the next rate hike to come at the July meeting, rather than June, “when the Fed will have the first reading on second quarter growth.” Barclays economists agreed the weak data could push the next rate hike back, “but the bar to disrupting the Fed’s plans (for two more rate increases) is higher now than it was in previous years.” AFP

American auto sales decreased last month CHICAGO―Car sales in the US slowed signiﬁcantly in April, compounding several months of declines and suggesting the industry’s record sales streak may be behind it. The big three American automakers on Tuesday all reported that sales fell in April compared to the same period last year Industry wide, automakers sold 8.3 percent fewer cars last month compared to March, and 4.7 percent fewer than in April 2016, according to Autodata. Many analysts had expected the retreat, forecasting an industry-wide decline, but the drop was steeper than forecast. It was the fourth straight month of falling sales for the industry, which Automotive News characterized as “the longest losing streak since the market bottomed out in 2009.” The seasonally-adjusted annual rate (SAAR) of sales fell to 16.88 million units, from 17.4 million last April when car sales were headed for another record year, according to Autodata. GM, the biggest US automaker, saw its sales drop 5.8 percent from April 2016, while Ford sales fell 7.2 percent, and FCA US, the North American arm of Fiat Chrysler, dropped seven percent. Toyota, one of the world’s biggest car makers, saw a decline of 4.4 percent in the US market year-over-year, while Nissan was down 1.5 percent. Together these automakers accounted for about two-thirds of all cars sold in the United States, according to Barclays Research. AFP

Beer break. Two robotic arms by Industrial robot manufacturer Kuka pour a beer for guests attending the Summit of the Business20 (B20) in Berlin on May 2, 2017. The B20 forum is a debate platform to discuss the G20 economies. AFP

Oil prices rebound, rise above $48/barrel OIL rebounded from a sixweek low after a US industry report signaled a supply overhang in the world’s biggest consumer may be easing. Futures in New York rose as much as 1.1 percent after closing at the lowest since March 21 Tuesday. US crude inventories fell by 4.16 million barrels last week and gasoline dropped by 1.93 million, the American Petroleum Institute was said to report Tuesday. Opec deepened production cuts last month, with overall output dropping by 40,000 barrels a day, according to a Bloomberg News survey. The API ﬁgures precede government data that will be released Wednesday, which is forecast to show a drop in crude inventories. Oil has fallen the past two weeks on concern that increasing US output will offset efforts by the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies to eliminate a global glut. Opec will meet again May 25 in Vienna to decide whether to extend the cuts through the second half of the year. “The market was already expecting a draw-down in the US inventory numbers and the API numbers back that up,” said Chris Weston, chief market strategist in Melbourne at IG Ltd. A potential drop in gasoline stockpiles “might help to offset some momentum which has built to the downside in the market.” West Texas Intermediate for June delivery rose as much as 51 cents to $48.17 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange and was at $48.03 as of 2:43 p.m. in Singapore. The contract lost $1.18, or 2.4 percent, to $47.66 on Tuesday. Total volume traded was about 9 percent below the 100-day average. Brent for July settlement gained as much as 59 cents, or 1.2 percent, to $51.05 a barrel on the London-based ICE Futures Europe exchange. The global benchmark crude traded at a $2.56 premium to WTI. US crude stockpiles probably fell by 3 million barrels in the week ended April 28, according to the median estimate in a Bloomberg survey of 11 analysts before an Energy Information Administration report on Wednesday. That would be a fourth week of declines. Bloomberg

IMF says Europe must provide ‘credible’ debt relief for Greece WASHINGTON―Despite an agreement reached Tuesday on a reform package, Europe still needs to provide “credible” debt relief to Greece before the International Monetary Fund can provide more ﬁnancing, an IMF ofﬁcial said. Greece and its creditors closed a troubled chapter in the negotiations with a preliminary deal on pension and tax cuts after many months of talks. “Now, this will have to go hand in hand with a credible strategy for how to restore debt sustainability,” said Poul Thom-

sen, head of the IMF’s European Department. Those discussions on how to address the Greek debt burden are only now getting underway, he told reporters in a conference call. “Once we have (a) program that consists of both legs―strong policies and strong debt relief measures―we can take it to the board” of the IMF for approval. But that could be the thorniest part of the negotiations with Europe, which has been reluctant to provide more debt relief, particularly Germany, where additional concessions are unpopular and

a general election is looming in September. Greece Finance Minister Euclid Tsakalotos said he hoped to see a ﬁnal deal in time for the May 22 meeting of eurozone ﬁnance ministers, which must approve the agreement. A compromise is required to unblock a tranche of loans Greece needs to repay seven billion euros ($7.6 billion) in maturing loans in July. Thomsen said the fund is willing to agree to a deal in which debt relief is only delivered at the end of the agreement, and is contingent

on “Greece meeting the targets.” However, he would have to provide assurances to the IMF board “that we have a common understanding with our European partners of what kind of measures will be needed to deliver that debt relief.” The ofﬁcial said the IMF welcomed the agreement between Greece, the European Commission and European Central Bank, which “we think will allow ﬁscal policy to become much more growth friendly.” The Greek government agreed to reductions in tax breaks and pension cuts, which Thomsen

said will broaden the tax base and allow lower tax rates. Athens also agreed to reduce pension costs to permit “more growthfriendly spending” on measures like targeted social beneﬁts. Greece and its European creditors agreed to a third, 86-billioneuro ($94-billion) bailout deal in July 2015, but the IMF had refused to participate without signiﬁcant debt relief. The nation’s debt in 2016 stood at nearly 315 billion euros or 179 percent of annual economic output, up from 177.4 percent in 2015. AFP

Self sufficiency, rice security: not either-or THE choice of an appropriate national rice policy is currently being presented to Filipinos, debate-style, as a choice between food security (taking all existing ricelands out of rice production and leaving it to other countries to supply this country’s total rice requirement) and self-sufficiency in this staple of the Filipino diet. On one side, it is being asked why the Philippines has to strive for self-sufficiency when other countries – notably other Southeast Asian nations – can supply rice to this country at prices more advantageous for Filipino consumers. On the other side it is being argued that the Philippine rice industry is capable of attaining national self-sufficiency if only the government would provide Filipino rice farmers with support adequate for efficient production. The presentation of the national ricepolicy choice as one between food security and self-sufficiency is characterized by falsity. The issue is not as simple as that. It is not as facile a matter as this

country’s having to choose between leaving it to other countries to make Filipinos rice-secure and its striving to produce its entire rice requirement. A country whose production of a commodity falls short of the national requirement will buy it from other countries. That is a given. Of course, in the case of the Philippines’ rice-supply record, given is spelled with a G: during the two decades the Philippines has been either the No. 1 or the No. 2 rice importer in the world. The way things look, the Philippines’ being a major rice importer is likely to remain a fact of international life for some time to come. Those on the food-security side of the debate (1) are asking why this country should strive for rice self-sufﬁciency when other countries can ﬁll its rice requirement and (2) are proposing that the government resources devoted to rice production be diverted to other, public uses. Why continue to prop up Filipino rice growers, they are asking, when Thai, Vietnamese and other East

Asian rice farmers can produce the staple at lower cost. It is the anti-selfsufficiency group’s firm belief that the Filipino consumers’ welfare will not be imperiled if the government were to withdraw its support from the rice industry. Sound economic policymaking does dictate that, when an industry is generally inefficient and uncompetitive, whatever support it receives from the government must be gradually phased out and diverted to more beneficial uses. But here lie the flaws in the antiself-sufficiency group’s position. Not all of the Philippine rice industry is inefficient. Many parts of the 3 million hectares of land planted to rice and corn are high-yield areas. Chief among these are the Cagayan Valley, Nueva Ecija, Central Mindoro, Iloilo, the Bicol River basin and Central and Southern Mindanao. These were the areas that the late Secretary (later Minister of Agriculture) Arturo Tanco identified with the foreign aid agencies as the nation’s

highest yielding areas for purposes of the Masagana 99 rice program. Adequately supported with irrigation and other production inputs – especially credit and agricultural extension services – these growing areas can again produce rice sufficient to feed the Filipino people. But that’s just the point. The Philippine rice industry – and the companion corn industry – have not been receiving the production support conducive to the attainment of the highest possible yields. Before jettisoning the Philippine rice industry and placing the nation’s food security in the hands of Vietnamese and Thai farmers, the anti-self-sufficiency folk should go out to the countryside and talk to the rice farmers. This discussion begs the question: Are rice self-sufficiency and food security mutually exclusive? Must it be an either-or situation? What is so terrible about being able to achieve rice selfsufficiency? I fail to see how rice self-sufficiency

and food security can be incompatible with one another. Given the kind of support that the governments of countries like Thailand and Vietnam – translation: full support – I see no reason why the Philippine rice industry cannot perform as well as its counterparts in those countries and thereby make the Filipino people food-secure. Masagana 99 showed that it can. Fully supported, today’s Filipino rice farmers can reprise that program. Finally, two thoughts about the imports that domestic production deﬁcits render necessary. News about impending rice imports have the predictable effect of bringing down the prices that Filipino rice farmers are paid for their outputs. And imports undertaken by the National Food Authority – currently the only means of importing rice – have become classic generators of corruption. E-mail: rudyromero777@yahoo.com

LGUs

Makati ‘Flores’ parade on Friday

LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS

By Joel E. Zurbano THE Makati City government will implement a traffic rerouting scheme on Friday to give way to its annual Flores de Mayo parade. The city’s Cultural Affairs Office also announced it has chosen actress and celebrity model Kate Valdez as this year’s Mayflower Queen. The traditional procession will be held Friday afternoon after the coronation at City Hall. According to the Public Safety Department, some portions of Jose P. Rizal Street will be closed to traffic from 4 p.m. onward, as follows: • J.P. Rizal St.—from F. Zobel Street to A.P. Reyes Street: public utility jeepneys from Guadalupe area to Manila can take F. Zobel Street, turn left at Morong Street, left at Angono Street, right at Hormiga Street, left at Trabajo Street, turn right upon reaching Hippodromo Street, and cross A.P. Reyes toward their destination. • A.P. Reyes Street—from J.P. Rizal Street to Pascua Street (north bound only). Other intersections will be on stop-and-go mode, the PSD said. Traffic enforcers will be deployed to assist motorists and the public. Actress and celebrity model Kate Valdez will be crowned as the Mayflower Queen of Makati City for 2017. Mayor Abigail Binay will lead the coronation rites with her daughter Martina as one of the “sagalas” (princesses). The Flores de Mayo (Flowers of May) Festival, also known as the Santacruzan, is one of the most celebrated events in May in Makati and throughout the country. The procession of sagalas and their escorts depicts the search of St. Helena for the cross of Jesus Christ, and gives honor to the Blessed Virgin Mary. According to the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, the festival was first introduced to Filipinos by Spanish friars in 1854. Valdez, the Mayflower Queen, is currently an exclusive talent of GMA Artist Center, and is known for her role as Violet in “Destiny Rose” and as Mira in “Encantadia.” She was born on Aug. 21, 2000 and acted in school plays when she was younger.

Jimbo Owen Gulle, Editor Roger M. Garcia, Assistant Editor jimbo.gulle@gmail.com mslocalgov@gmail.com THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017

New Puerto airport unwraps P UERTO PRINCESA CITY—Top officials of the Department of Transportation led by Secretary Arthur P. Tugade and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines under Director General Capt. Jim C. Sydiongco led the blessing of the new Puerto Princesa International Airport building on Wednesday, a day before the new airport becomes operational.

Korean Embassy officials led by Ambassador Kim Jae-Shin, local officials led by Palawan Gov. Jose Alvarez, Puerto Princesa City Mayor Luis Marcaida lll, special guests and aviation stakeholders witnessed the inauguration of the bigger, modern airport complex.

Located at Barangay San Miguel here, the new P4.5-billion airport terminal has a floor area of 13,000 square meters with a seating capacity of 1,500. It has parking for over 200 cars and a 2,600-meter runway that can accommodate bigger aircraft like the 400-seater Air-

bus A330 and six parking bays. Currently, the airport accommodates an average of 20 landings and takeoffs daily from PAL Express (Manila and Cebu), Cebu Pacific (Manila, Cebu Mactan and Iloilo), AirAsia (Manila, Cebu Mactan and Davao), PAL (Manila, Clark and Taipei-Taoyuan) and Air Juan (Busuanga and Cuyo). The new airport boasts a stateof-the-art air navigation system that complies with international standards, enhancing the airport’s safety operations with an 1,800 kilovolt-ampere (kVA) standby generator set. Palawan, listed as among the world’s best islands by Conde Nast Traveler magazine, is not only home to pristine white-sand

beaches and enthralling diving spots but also to other renowned destinations such as the Puerto Princesa Underground River. Meanwhile, Cebu Pacific Air or CEB announced it will begin today its flights in and out of the new International Airport. “Cebu Pacific shares the joy of the Palaweños in the opening of the newest world-class airport in Puerto Princesa, as this is expected to boost trade and tourism even more in the Palawan region,” said lawyer JR Mantaring, CEB vice president for Corporate Affairs. Cebu Pacific is the largest carrier operating in and out of Puerto Princesa, with a total of 550 flights to and from the capital of Palawan weekly via three of its major hubs:

Manila, Cebu and Iloilo. In 2016, the airline flew the most number of passengers to and from the city, garnering over 50 percent of the total market share. “We are positive that with this expansion, we will be able to help achieve the government’s goal of increasing tourist arrivals to Palawan,” said Mantaring. “With the new airport able to handle international flights, it now makes Puerto Princesa attractive for direct connections to and from key foreign tourist markets. And by offering more seats, CEB will be able to provide even lower fares, allowing more Juans to see the beauty that is Palawan.” Eric B. Apolonio and Joel E. Zurbano

SUMMER CAMP. A book mascot performs Tuesday as Valenzuela City’s 20-day Summer Reading and Math Camp kicked off at Pio Elementary School. More than 13,000 incoming grade 3 and 6 students will participate in the citywide summer camp held during weekdays. Andrew Rabulan

‘Seal of Good Education Governance’ awards open Estrada, THE Synergeia Foundation, in partnership with the Department of Education, PLDT and Smart Communications, has opened nominations for its Seal of Good Education Governance awards, which will recognize local government units “that have exerted outstanding efforts to deliver basic education to their constituents.” LGUs that are recognized with the Seal stand to earn incentive packages from PLDT and Smart worth up to P1.5 million each,

said Fr. Jose Ramon “Jett” Villarin, SJ, Synergeia Foundation chairman and president of Ateneo de Manila University, in launching the event Wednesday in Makati City. “Often, education is just the province of the school, but what it takes is more than just a school, (more than) just a village, and we’re getting the LGUs engaged,” Villarin said of the project supported by the United States Agency for International Development.

“Include the LGUs, not just the teachers, that’s been the Synergeia way of engaging the nation,” Villarin added. “We’re happy to launch this program to recognize those LGUs that have been committed, most dynamic, in this advocacy for education.” In determining the first batch of seal recipients, a board of judges comprised of representatives from Synergeia, PLDT, Smart, and DepEd will evaluate “how nominated LGUs have

reinvented their local school boards and governing councils.” Judges will also check how the LGUs have involved their communities in enabling all children to go to school. The locality must also have a high cohort survival rate (grade one students must finish at least grade six) and a steadily improving performance in the national achievement test. The Special Education Fund must also be used on activities that promote learning.

“We are happy to support Synergeia’s efforts to encourage more LGUs to efficiently and effectively deliver basic education to Filipino children,” said PLDT and Smart chief revenue officer Eric Alberto. “As the proverb goes, ‘It takes a village to raise a child.’ We hope that by working handin-hand with foundations and LGUs, we can accelerate the enhancement of learning among Filipino youth like never before,” Alberto said. Jimbo Gulle

Ex-Butuan mayor faces graft charge By Rio N. Araja THE Office of the Ombudsman has indicted ex-mayor Ferdinand Amante Jr. of Butuan City for violating Section 3(g) of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act or Republic Act No. 3019 before the Sandiganbayan. In November 2012, Amante accepted the donation of a 2003 mobile Siemens biograph duo positron emission tomographycomputerized tomography or PET-CT scan machine from the World Medical Relief Inc., Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales said. The donation was approved by the Sangguniang Panlungsod with the understanding that the incidental costs would be minimal, amounting to P1,512,500 only. But it turned out that when the machine was transported all the way from Michigan, United States to Butuan, it cost the city

government P15,485,084.12 in customs duties, freight and other incidental fees, the Ombudsman added. According to Amante, the donation was accepted “in good faith in order to equip the Butuan City Medical Center with the revolutionary PET-CT scan machine, a state-of the-art diagnostic equipment for cancer diseases.” In June 2013, the machine arrived in Butuan, and after a series of tests and extensive measures, “it was determined that a problem with its computer system existed such that all its software had to be reformatted or reinstalled,” the Ombudsman said. The Commission on Audit noted that “from 2013 up to the present, the machine remained idle, unutilized and exposed to the elements that contributed to the deterioration of its value, resulting in the loss and wastage of public funds.”

FEDERALISM 101. Former Laguna governor ER Ejercito, PDP-Laban interim chairman in the province,

explains how a federal government would work at a restaurant in Calamba City last Friday. Also speaking at the event were Federalism Institute Partners professor Edmund Tayao, professor Raffy Montes, professor Gelbert Lozada, lawyer Ace Gomez, and Ariel Alcala. Roy Tomandao

Ubial to promote MMM17

MANILA Mayor Joseph “Erap” Estrada will join Health Secretary Paulyn Jean Rosell-Ubial today at 9 a.m. for the nationwide launch of the Department of Health’s May Measurement Month 2017 or MMM17, a nationwide blood pressure screening program which is part of the celebration of the 8th National Hypertension Awareness Month. To drum up awareness on hypertension and prove he is still in the pink of health, Estrada will have his blood pressure checked, along with Ubial and board of directors and members of the Philippine Society of Hypertension and Philippine Heart Association. After the ceremonies, Estrada will join Ubial in a media conference where he is expected to talk about his support to the MMM17 as well as the current health programs of the city government. Estrada will also discuss other concerns regarding local and national issues. They include the recent Quiapo bomb blast, the secret detention cell at the Manila Police District Station 1, the three members of the Manila Traffic and Parking Bureau who were found positive for drug use, US President Donald Trump’s White House invitation to President Rodrigo Duterte, the charges filed against Duterte before the International Criminal Court, the series of New People’s Army attacks, and the West Philippine Sea dispute, among others. Sandy Araneta

LGUs

THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017

9th Ammungan Festival touts products, NV unity B By Ben Moses Ebreo

AYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya—Local products of this province take centerstage this month as part of Nueva Vizcaya’s annual founding anniversary celebration, dubbed the 9th Grand Ammungan Festival.

“We will be showing our local products, which are proudly made and produced in Nueva Vizcaya, so we can help our local entrepreneurs in terms of promotion and sales,” said Maybelle Blossom Dumlao-Sevillena, provincial ad-

ministrator and director-general of the festivities. She said the concept was culled from the theme for this year’s 9th Grand Ammungan Festival, which is “Sangsangkamaysa a rambakan, Nai-

sangsangayan a gapuanan” (“Celebrate in unity our great achievements” in English). “Ammungan, which means gathering or festival, runs from May 13 to 24 every year here. Sevillena said some of the products to be showcased during the festival are furniture and handicrafts, processed natural food and beverages, fruits and vegetables, aquaculture products, and citrus varieties, among others. The 15 towns of the province will also participate in the One Town, One Product showcase where their “identity” will be promoted.

Manila

Republic of the Philippines Standard ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION

TODAY

installation and maintenance purposes. This will facilitate work orders and avoid delay in attending customer’s requests.

San Miguel Avenue, Pasig City

IN THE MATTER OF THE APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL OF CAPITAL EXPENDITURE PROJECTS FOR CALENDAR YEAR 2016, WITH PRAYER FOR PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY,

ERC CASE NO. 2016-205 RC

COTABATO LIGHT AND POWER COMPANY (CLPC), Applicant. x---------------- --- --- --------x

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that on 28 December 2016, Cotabato Light and Power Company (CLPC) filed an application dated 9 December 2016 seeking the Commission’s approval of CLPC’s capital expenditure (CAPEX) projects for calendar year 2016, with prayer for provisional authority.

PROJECT SUMMARY DESCRIPTION SUBSTATION REHAB Sin 3 VCB replacement

DPWH Request: Line Rerouting of Salimbao Feeder 3 & 4 from Salimbao SS to Notre Dame Avenue Upgrading of SCADA hardware

6.4.1.

“Poles, Towers & Fixtures” and “Overhead Conductors and Devices” components address the need to replace wooden poles to ensure public safety. Further, there are road widening projects of the DPWH that necessitates the relocation of poles and its accessories. Lastly, the projects ensures that new customer applications are readily acted upon. “Line Transformers” project likewise address the requirements of new applicants while also answering for the maintenance of the existing equipment. “Power Conditioning Equipment” project tackles the necessity of having readily available equipment and accessories to be installed in the distribution lines in order to maintain the voltage quality at an acceptable level. “Meters, Instruments & Metering Transformers” component undertakes to replace electromechanical meters to electronic meters as a measure to prevent rampant tampering and illegal tapping. This component is also needed for CLPC’s elevated meter centers and meteron-pole projects. “Streetlights and Signal Systems” component plays a vital role in the safety and security of streets covered by the CLPC Franchise Area.

7.2.

The “Buildings & Land Improvement” project involves the development and improvement of CLPC’s facilities and sites among of which include sites for the proposed warehouse, Salimbao poleyard fence, and renovation of the covered court. By enhancing CLPC’s said facilities, the quality of service of service to the customers is improved. The “Telecommunications” project pertains to the installation of IP Cameras in the three substations of Salimbao, Sinsuat and Malagapas and the replacement of old and/or obsolete VHF Radios. The project will safeguard CLPC’s substations which are vital facilities for its operation. Being able to monitor activities in the structures proximity in high definition will help deter and prevent unwanted circumstances. The VHF mobile radios need to be replaced in order for crews to function efficiently and safely as communication and the timely dispatch and relay of information are crucial in CLPC’s operation.

7.3.

The “Tools and Work Equipment” project comprises the acquisition of tools needed by the Transmission & Distribution Department to perform its various tasks and replacement of old equipment that have ceased to function. The project aims to update the work equipment with new technology to provide more efficient and safer tools for the CLPC’s employees. The repairs, maintenance and replacement of tools are essential in the continuous operation of the Transmission and Distribution Department.

7.4.

The “Transportation” project includes the acquisition of brand new Insulated Mini-bucket.Truck for PMD and A-Team operation particularly for Elevated Meter Centers (EMC) project implementation and maintenance. The project addresses the increasing number of EMC Cluster installation in the CLPC Franchise Area. The trucks can penetrate interior and remote areas not passable by trucks for

Php363,577.80 PhP18,299,971.49 Php1,450,739.49

Buildings and Improvement

PhP2,027,899.00

Telecommunications

Php321,700.00

Tools and Work Equipment

Php3,037,270.24

Transportation

Php6,480,810.00

Office Furniture and Equipment

Php300,000.00

Computer Equipment (Software & Hardware)

Php2,727,027.65

POWER PLANT Indent Spare Parts - Mirrlees Engines

Php840,242.26

Replacement of Uniclose Pumps for Unit 7 TOTAL 2016 CAPEX

Php160,000.00 PhP 61,107,986.57

Table 1:2016 CAPEX Projects

10. The detailed justifications, technical analysis, economic analysis and alternatives considered, if availing, for CLPC’s CAPEX program for CY 2016 are discussed in detail in Annex “A” of this Application. 11.

The proposed CAPEX for CY 2016 will not have a direct impact on the current rates of CLPC until approved by the Honorable Commission as part of CLPC’s Regulatory Asset Base in the next applicable Regulatory Period. ALLEGATIONS IN SUPPORT OF THE PRAYER FOR PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY

12. Public interest and necessity requires the immediate implementation, without delay, of the subject CAPEX projects. The loading and reliability constraints of the current substations are reaching critical levels, necessitating the upgrade and/or construction of the relevant substations. Aside from these, in the event that the CAPEX projects are not immediately implemented, the consumers may suffer from prolonged power interruptions and additional load coming from existing and new customers may likewise not be accommodated. These negative consequences, which are detrimental not only to the economy of the areas covered by CLPC, but also to the livelihood and everyday lives of the consumers may be mitigated by the immediate approval of the CLPC 2016 CAPEX projects. 13. Thus, pending final approval, there is an urgent need for a provisional authority for CLPC to immediately implement its proposed 2016 CAPEX Projects. In support of the prayer for the grant of the provisional authority, attached as Annex “B” is the Judicial Affidavit of Mr. Mark Sam Banluta, Engineering Group Manager of CLPC. 14. The foregoing CAPEX for CY 2016 are indispensable for the systematic and economic expansion and rehabilitation of CLPC’s distribution facilities and ensuring compliance with safety, performance and regulatory requirements. The benefit arising from these CAPEX projects will ultimately redound to the endconsumers of CLPC in terms of continuous, reliable and efficient power supply. PRAYER WHEREFORE, in view of the foregoing, CLPC respectfully prays that this Honorable Commission: 1.

Pending trial on the merits, immediately issue a PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY authorizing CLPC to implement, its Capital Expenditure Projects (CAPEX) for Calendar Year (“CY”) 2016.

After due hearing, APPROVE WITH FINALITY, CLPC’s proposed Capital Expenditure Projects (CAPEX) for Calendar Year (“CY”) 2016. Other relief just and equitable under the premises are likewise prayed for.

The Commission has set the Application for determination of compliance with the jurisdictional requirements, expository presentation, Pre-trial Conference, and presentation of evidence on 17 May 2017 (Wednesday) at two o’clock in the afternoon (2:00 P.M.) at ERC Mindanao Field Office, Mintrade Bldg., Monteverde Ave. cor Sales St., 8000 Davao City, Philippines. All persons who have an interest in the subject matter of the instant case may become a party by filing with the Commission a verified Petition to Intervene at least five (5) days prior to the initial hearing and subject to the requirements under Rule 9 of the 2006 Rules of Practice and Procedure, indicating therein the docket number and title of the case and stating the following: 1) 2)

The “Non-Network” category includes: 7.1.

Php6,012,712.38

Street Lights and Signal Systems

The “Substation Rehab: Upgrade of Sinuat 3 Feeder Breaker and Replacement of Station Batteries of Salimbao Substation” project which involves the replacement of SIN 3 feeder breaker, form the Oil-Blast Circuit Breaker (OCB) to Vacuum Circuit Breaker, situated at Sinsuat Substation within CLPC Compound, and the replacement of station power batteries of Salimbao S/s. The project shortens the downtime maintenance period needed during repair and preventive maintenance. Also, being an environment conscious entity, CLPC considers the oil in an OCB flammable and dangerous, therefore posing a great risk and hazard to human health and nature.

The “Residual” project includes the “Replacement and Upgrading of Distribution Lines, Distribution Transformers, Poles, KWHR Meters, and Streetlights for Maintenance and New Application” project which is a set of recurring CAPEX projects.

Php2,032,632.56

Line Transformers

NON-NETWORK

The CAPEX projects under the “Network” category are as follows:

6.4.

Php8,689,358.44

Overhead Conductors and Devices

Meters, Instruments and Metering Transformers

iv. Residual; Non-Network Projects; and Power Plant: Acquisition of Indent Engine Spare Parts and Replacement of Uniclose Pumps for Mirrlees Engines

The “Other Networks: Upgrading of SCADA Communication Hardware” project. This involves the acquisition of WI-MAX (Base, CPE & Accessories) to upgrade the communication system of CLPC. The WI-MAX update will provide high speed wireless mobile data and telecommunication technology that will deliver a fast wireless broadband access as an alternate or back-up to cable and DSL and will give a diverse source of internet connectivity and Wi-Fi connectivity hotspots. This project enables CLPC to have a faster, more efficient and reliable communication environment that enables the delivery of quality services to the consumers.

Poles, Towers & Fixtures

Power Conditioning Equipment

New Line: DPWH Request: Line Re-routing of Salimbao Feeder 3 & 4 from Salimbao SS to Notre Dame Avenue

6.3.

Php1,527,000.00

RESIDUAL

Network; i. Substation Rehabilitation: Upgrade of Sinuat 3 Feeder Breaker and Replacement of Station Batteries of Salimbao Substation;

The “New Line: DPWH Request: Line Re-routing of Salimbao Feeder 3 & 4 from Salimbao SS to Notre Dame Avenue” project, which re-routes the existing Salimbao Feeder 3 & 4 from old bridge to the new bridge due to the deteriorating condition of the old bridge.

PhP 5,156,245.26

OTHER NETWORK

CLPC’s 2016 CAPEX program is categorized as follows:

6.2.

Php440,000.00

NEWLINE

As such, CLPC, in pursuit of its duty to better serve its customers, and in accordance with Section 20 (b) of Commonwealth Act No. 146 2, hereby applies for the approval of the Honorable Commission to implement its Capital Expenditure Projects (CAPEX) for Calendar Year (“CY”) 2016.

6.1.

Php1,240,800.00

Salimbao S/S Battery Station

iii. Other Network Projects: Upgrading of SCADA Communication Hardware

COST

NETWORK

Thus, for CLPC to pursue its mandate under its franchise and the EPIRA, it is necessary for CLPC to continuously invest in the improvement of its system and services to better serve its customers.

b. c.

The “Computer Equipment (Software & Hardware)” project involves the acquisition of Technical References, Software & Licenses, and Computer Hardware. The project will provide power system analysis and simulation software which are prevalent in electrical engineering practice. The software aids CLPC to evaluate its distribution system loss segregation program and simulates the technical loss of their distribution network and for calculation of short circuit currents.

The total estimated cost of CLPC’s CY 2016 CAPEX is Php 61,107,986.57 and the complete list of CLPC’s 2016 CAPEX, together with its estimated cost, is as follows:

Republic Act No. 9136, or the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001 (“EPIRA”), under Section 23 thereof, obligates a distribution utility, such as CLPC, to provide distribution services and connections to its system for any end-user within its franchise area consistent with the distribution code. Further, distribution utilities share in the objective of the EPIRA to ensure the quality, reliability, security and affordability of the supply of electric power.1

ii.

7.6.

CLPC is a corporation duly organized and existing under and by virtue of the laws of the Republic of the Philippines, with office address at Sinsuat Avenue, Cotabato City. CLPC is duly authorized distribution utility of electric power to the end-users in the City of Cotabato, and portions of the Municipalities of Sultan Kudarat and Datu Odin Sinsuat, province of Maguindanao (”CLPC Franchise Area”) pursuant to its franchise under Republic Act No. 10637. It may be served with orders and other processes of the Honorable Commission through its undersigned counsel at the address indicated below.

The “Office Furniture and Equipment” project involves the acquisition of equipment to be used to provide timely compliance to customer and regulatory requirements and CCTV cameras to intensify security within CLPC’s premises.

The “Power Plant” category involves the “Acquisition of Indent Engine Spare Parts and Replacement of Uniclose Pumps for Mirrlees Engines” project. This project aims to acquire parts for the maintenance of the Mirrlees engines of the Power Plant which is crucial to sustain its operation.

CLPC alleged the following in its Application:

7.5.

TO ALL INTERESTED PARTIES:

These products will be showcased with the conduct of the “Partuat ken Patanor” (Vizcaya’s best exhibits) and Agro-Industrial Fair 2017 at the provincial capitol in this town. “This will further promote the identity of our province, our villagers, products and their traditional practices as a unified Novo Vizcayano,” Sevillena said. The festival will also offer free medical, surgical and dental services, a job fair, haircuts, blood pressure check-up, and Philippine Regulation Commission licensing, among others.

The petitioner’s name and address; The nature of petitioner’s interest in the subject matter of the proceeding and the way and manner in which such interest is affected by the issues involved in the proceeding; and A statement of the relief desired.

All other persons who may want their views known to the Commission with respect to the subject matter of the case may file their Opposition or Comment thereon at any stage of the proceeding before Applicant rests its case, subject to the requirements under Rule 9 of the 2006 Rules of Practice and Procedure. No particular form of Opposition or Comment is required, but the document, letter, or writing should contain the following: 1) The name and address of such person; 2) A concise statement of the Opposition or Comment; and 3) The grounds relied upon. All such persons who wish to have a copy of the Application may request from Applicant that they be furnished with the same, prior to the date of the initial hearing. Applicant is hereby directed to furnish all those making such request with copies of the Application and its attachments, subject to the reimbursement of reasonable photocopying costs. Any such person may likewise examine the Application and other pertinent records filed with the Commission during the standard office hours. WITNESS, the Honorable Chairman JOSE VICENTE B. SALAZAR, and the Honorable Commissioners ALFREDO J. NON, GLORIA VICTORIA C. YAP-TARUC, JOSEFINA PATRICIA A. MAGPALE-ASIRIT, and GERONIMO D. STA. ANA, Energy Regulatory Commission, this 10th day of March 2017 in Pasig City.

ATTY. NATHAN J. MARASIGAN Chief of Staff Office of the Chairman and CEO 1 2

Section 2 (b) of the EPlRA. Public Service Act

(MS-APR 27/MAY 4, 2017)

ESL for Antamok project ruled out of the Environmental Management Bureau and the Mines and ITOGON, Benguet—The tech- Geo-Sciences Bureau, and pronical assessment team for this ject developer Goldrich Natural town’s waste management sys- Resources Exploration and Detem project at Benguet Corp.’s velopment Inc.. Antamok open pit has initially De Leon said the ESL was first ruled out the engineered sani- considered as a stopgap measure tary landfill or ESL component during the meeting among Benof the facility. guet Gov. Crescencio Pacalso and That paves the way for the mayors Mauricio Domogan and construction of a state-of-the-art Victorio Palangdan of Baguio waste-to-energy plant that will and Itogon. generate substantial amount of However, the landfill was renewable energy for the host ruled out after the group deterand neighboring communities, mined that building the facility BC officials said Wednesday. would take the same time and Benguet Corp. vice president would entail the same cost as esfor compliance Mignon de Leon tablishing the waste-to-energy said the general direction would technology. be the pursuit of the waste-toBaguio City general services energy project initially to serve officer Romeo Concio CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACKsaid that Itogon and Baguio and eventu- based on their studies, a modually the entire Baguio-La Trini- lar ESL would take nine to 12 dad-Itogon-Sablan-Tuba-Tublay months to construct, and would or BLISTT area. command as big a budget as the The team is headed by Ben- waste-to-energy facility. guet Gold Operations resident The town will instead set up a manager Antonio Buenavista, temporary residual containment and composed of representa- area or TRCA and employ comtives from the local government ponent programs on material units of Itogon town, Benguet recovery facilities and waste province and Baguio City, Ben- segregation as approved by the guet Corp., the regional offices EMB-CAR.

By Dexter A. See

Clark-to-Bagabag flights boost CAR BAGUIO CITY—The opening of chartered flights from Clark in Pampanga to Bagabag in nearby Nueva Vizcaya will contribute in significantly increasing local and foreign tourist arrivals in strategic tourist destinations in the Cordillera in the coming months, the regional office of the Department of Tourism said Wednesday. Maria Venus Q. Tan, DOTCAR regional director, said the Clark-Bagabag maiden flight is scheduled on May 17, with 30-seater aircraft to be used. Tan explained the ClarkBagabag flight will happen every four days or 11 times a month, which will be a big boost in improving the local and foreign tourist arrivals in the region. “We are elated there is an airline company that decided to service the Clark-Bagabag route through chartered fights, which would mean that all seats must be guaranteed to be taken. We want to bring in more tourists closer to their desired tourist destinations in the region,” Tan stressed.

The DOT-CAR official pointed out the 45-minute air travel from Clark to Bagabag and vice versa, and the 1.5-hour land travel from Bagabag to the rice terraces in Banaue “will definitely entice more nature lovers to visit the region’s major tourist destinations.” A United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization Heritage site, the rice terraces make Banaue a jump-off point toward other destinations in nearby provinces, such as the Sagada caves in Mountain Province, and white water rafting at the Chico River in Kalinga. Numerous foreign tourists make long hours of travel from their countries of origin just to be immersed in the rich culture of the Filipinos and relax in the different beaches of the country, Tan said. Thus, the opening of the Clark-Bagabag flight will be a big boost to the efforts of concerned government agencies and local governments, she added. Dexter A. See

IN BRIEF Miner’s program produces 135 grads QUEZON, Nueva Vizcaya—At least 135 villagers here recently completed their respective levels of study through the Alternative Learning System offered by the FCF Minerals Corp. and the Department of Education. Agnes Rosales, Community Relations Office head of the FCF Minerals, said 41 of the 135 ALS graduates finished the Accreditation and Equivalency Program, 58 hurdled the Basic Literacy Program, and 36 more completed the E-Learning Program, an innovation introduced by the FCF-ALS Program. “The graduates were inspired by the testimonies of the invited guest speakers who were also beneficiaries of the ALS program,” she said. Rosales said the graduation program, which was held at the barangay Multi-Purpose Hall was witnessed by Ian Moller, FCF country manager, DepEd officials and Runruno barangay captain John Babli-ing and FCF Community Relations Office staff. ALS is a laddered, modular non-formal education for dropouts of elementary and secondary schools, out of school youth, non-readers and senior citizens. The mining firm continues to support the program because of its impact on community development and progress, Rosales said. Ben Moses Ebreo

NGCP shares energy tips for the summer BALANGA CITY, Bataan—The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines has revealed its “Hirit sa Tag-init” energysaving tips for household consumers with the onset of summer. “Let us use LED bulbs, which are energy efficient, instead of incandescent bulbs,” said Fely Francisco, NGCP Regional Corporate Communications and Public Relations officer, during her radio guesting at Sikat FM 91.1 here. The electricity used over the lifetime of a single incandescent bulb costs 5 to 10 times the original purchase price of the bulb itself, according to the Department of Energy department. “Make sure to schedule ironing of clothes just once a week and in the morning when it is cooler,” Francisco advised. “More electricity is being consumed if ironing is done daily, since the amount of heat generated by the iron is not maximized, unlike when ironing in big batches of clothes. “And do the ironing during off-peak electricity hours, that is before 9 a.m. or after 5 p.m.,” she added. Butch Gunio

World

THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017

China-N. Korea pact looks shaky B EIJING―When North Korea’s founder Kim Il-Sung visited Beijing to sign a mutual defense pact with China in 1961, he was comforted by the military protection promised by his fellow communist neighbors.

But half a century and a few North Korean nuclear tests later, the agreement is beginning to look like a musty Cold War relic that China would rather forget. Despite their alliance in the 1950―1953 Korean War, analysts question whether Beijing would now rush to Pyongyang’s defense in a military confrontation with the United States and South Korea. Chinese leader Mao Zedong

once described the neighbors as being as “close as lips and teeth.” For his part, Kim told Mao that signing the Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance “raised our conﬁdence, and we feel safeguarded”, according to a memoir of Mao’s diplomatic activities published in 2003. But the two leaders are long dead and China, which is now the world’s second largest economy and a pillar of the global order,

Iran’s Khatami backs Rouhani reelection TEHRAN―Iran’s reformist former president Mohammad Khatami has skirted a media ban to endorse moderate incumbent Hassan Rouhani for a second term over conservative challengers in a tight May 19 election. Khatami, who during his 1997-2005 presidency oversaw a rapprochement with the West, has been barred from speaking openly since the mass protests against the disputed reelection of his hard-line successor Mahmoud Ahmadinejad in 2009. The hard-liner’s replacement by Rouhani in 2013 has seen a nuclear deal between Iran and world powers that led to the lifting of most international economic sanctions but is threatened by a tougher stance from the new US administration of Donald Trump. “Mr Rouhani’s defeat would mean an increased possibility of a return to international isolation and sanctions,” Khatami said on his website on Tuesday. “The interest of the people and the country is in the continuation of Rouhani’s government,” Khat-

ami added. Rouhani faces a tough campaign against two conservative challengers amid disappointment that the 2015 nuclear deal has not brought bigger economic dividends. Both Tehran mayor Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and clericturned-judge Ebrahim Raisi have played on the concerns of the poor. Khatami, 73, was an important ﬁgure in Rouhani’s ﬁrst-term election victory, convincing reformist candidate Mohammad Reza Aref to stand aside in his favor. But he remains under a domestic media ban over the 2009 protests and both reformist candidates in that election are still under house arrest. In parliamentary elections last year, Khatami skirted the ban by publishing a video on YouTube and mobile messaging apps to call on voters in the capital to choose a pro-Rouhani list. All 30 candidates of the “List of Hope” won, defeating many leading conservatives. AFP

appears less enthusiastic about protecting its treaty partner in a conﬂict that estimates suggest could cost hundreds of thousands of lives and lay waste to Seoul. The current leaders of both nations, Chinese President Xi Jinping and North Korea’s Kim JongUn, have never even met. The treaty constitutes “a very important part” of Sino-North Korean ties, professor Maochun Miles Yu at the United States Naval Academy told AFP. But, he added, it is by no means clear what China is actually prepared to do for the North if push comes to shove: “It’s a mystery.” North Korea’s regular missile launches and the prospect of a possible sixth nuclear test are putting Beijing in a tight spot as it already

faces US pressure to slash economic ties to punish Pyongyang. “It’s hard to say how China would assist North Korea militarily in case of war, since North Korea is developing nuclear weapons, an act that might have already breached the treaty between the two nations,” retired Chinese naval colonel Li Jie told the daily South China Morning Post last month. China’s nationalistic Global Times newspaper invoked two scenarios, including one in which Beijing would refrain from defending Pyongyang. “If North Korea continues to carry out severe missile tests, and the United States launches a surgical attack on its facilities, Beijing should impose a diplomatic boy-

Manila

Republic of the Philippines Standard ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION TODAY San Miguel Avenue, Pasig City

IN THE MATTER OF THE APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL OF THE EMERGENCY REPLACEMENT OF ONE (1) 83MVA POWER TRANSFORMER AT BALINTAWAK SUBSTATION,

cott, but there is no necessity of military intervention,” said an oped published in the Global Times last month. But the daily said China “should immediately carry out necessary military intervention” if the US and South Korea launch a ground invasion in the North to overthrow the regime. While Beijing’s commitment to the pact is in question, it remains sensitive to US military movements in the region. On Tuesday, China demanded that Washington “immediately” suspend the deployment of a missile shield in South Korea hours after ofﬁcials announced that it was operational. “We will ﬁrmly take necessary measures to uphold our interests,”

Power Transformer Bank No. 6 may not be fully maximized for the benefit of customers. The new power transformer with OLTC will be subsequently installed given the limitations of the currently installed power transformer with NLTC. This will ensure the reliability and quality of electric service to customers in the affected areas. 17. Shown below are the projected loadings of the affected power transformers with and without the replacement of the defective Balintawak Power Transformer Bank No. 6.

ERC CASE NO. 2016-166 RC

MANILA ELECTRIC COMPANY (MERALCO), Applicant. x--------- --- --- --------x NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO ALL INTERESTED PARTIES:

Notice is hereby given that on 01 September 2016, Manila Electric Company (MERALCO) filed an Application seeking the Commission’s approval of its plan to replace one of its 83 MVA power transformer in MERALCO’s Balintawak Substation.

Table 1: Without Project Parameter Under Consideration Loading of Balintawak 83-MVA Bank No. 5

78%

Loading of Grace Park 83-MVA Bank No. 1

72%

Loading of Kaybiga 83-MVA Bank No. 2

60%

System Loss

1. Applicant is a private corporation duly organized and existing under the laws of the Republic of the Philippines, with principal office located at Lopez Building, Ortigas Avenue, Barangay Ugong, Pasig City. It may be served with notices and other processes of this Honorable Commission through its undersigned counsel at the address indicated herein.

Parameter Under Consideration Loading of Balintawak 83-MVA Bank No. 6

46%

2. Applicant has a legislative franchise to construct, operate and maintain an electric power distribution system for the conveyance of electric power to the end-users in the cities and municipalities of Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite and Rizal, and certain cities/municipalities/barangays in Batangas, Laguna, Quezon and Pampanga, pursuant to Republic Act No. 9209.

Loading of Balintawak 83-MVA Bank No. 5

53%

Loading of Grace Park 83-MVA Bank No. 1

59%

Loading of Kaybiga 83-MVA Bank No. 2

52%

3. Applicant seeks the Honorable Commission’s approval of its emergency CAPEX project for the replacement of the defective Balintawak Power Transformer Bank No. 6.

System Loss

4. The two main project components of the emergency project are: (a) temporary installation of an 83-MVA, 115 kV–34.5 kV, three (3)-phase power transformer with NLTC; and (b) permanent installation of a new 83MVA, 115 kV–34.5 kV, three (3)-phase power transformer with OLTC. 5. The Application is filed pursuant to the Honorable Commission’s Resolution No. 26, Series of 2009, entitled: “Resolution Amending the Rules for Approval of Regulated Entities’ Capital Expenditure Projects”. Emergency Capital Expenditure projects are those that require immediate implementation during an event that is not a force majeure or fortuitous event in order to maintain safe, reliable, secure and efficient operation of the power system.

19. The cost for the temporary installation of power transformer with NLTC is Php 1,045,219.20. The same includes the installation of the available 83-MVA, 115 kV – 34.5 kV, three-phase power transformer with NLTC and costs for transformer oil and trucking services. While the cost for permanent installation of power transformer is Php 55,796,508.15. This includes the cost of new 83-MVA, 115 kV – 34.5 kV, three-phase power transformer with OLTC and costs for transformer oil, taxes, duties, brokerage, trucking services and installation. 20. Thus, the total cost for the emergency replacement of power transformer in Balintawak Substation is Fifty Six Million Eight Hundred Forty One Thousand Seven Hundred Twenty Seven Pesos and Thirty Five Centavos (PhP56,841,727.35). 21. In further support of the Application, attached hereto are the following documents: • Annex “A” – Emergency CAPEX Project Information Summary with supporting documents: (i) Technical and Economic Analysis, (ii) Cost Estimates; (c) Expenditure Summary; (iii) Cost Benefit Analysis Calculation; and (iv) Gantt Chart;

7. The Balintawak Substation is located at Lot 1, EDSA, Brgy. Apolonio Samson, Balintawak District, Quezon City. The Power Transformer Banks in said substation are Power Transformer Banks Nos. 1, 2, 3 and 7,which have a rating of 230kV-115kV, and Power Transformer Bank Nos. 4, 5 and 6, which have a 115kV-34.5kV rating. However, Power Transformer Bank Nos. 4, 5 and 6 are only drawing power from Bank Nos. 1, 2, 3 and 7.

• Annex “B” – Documents showing the results of tests conducted on Power Transformer Bank No. 6; and • Annex “C” – Judicial Affidavit of Engr. Mario delos Reyes, Manager and Head of Applicant’s Substation Services Asset Management Office.

8. On 20 June 2016, Balintawak Power Transformer Bank No. 6 was tripped out by transformer differential relay through its lockout relay due to exploded secondary bushing (X3). 9. On 21 June 2016, the power transformer was immediately subjected to initial test after replacing H1, H2, H3 and X3 bushings, secondary lightning arresters and insulators from both the transformer and 34.5kV switchgear which were damaged due to electric arc and shrapnel during explosion. The test results showed critical low insulation level between Primary Winding to Ground and between Secondary Winding to Ground. As a remedial measure, the power transformer was subjected to hot-oil circulation from June 22 to June 26, 2016 so as to improve its performance and condition.

New Zealand watchdog rejects media merger WELLINGTON―A merger of New Zealand’s two largest media companies was rejected Wednesday as the country’s competition watchdog warned it would create a dominant news giant and threaten democracy. NZME and Fairfax Media NZ signed a merger agreement last September, hoping it would boost their ability to compete with global online giants such as Facebook and Google. The combined entity would control almost 90 percent of New Zealand’s print media and reach an audience of 3.7 million―more than 80 percent of the population―New Zealand’s Commerce Commission said. It stood by a preliminary decision issued in November to boycott the move, saying such concentrated media ownership was unprecedented in modern times. “This level of inﬂuence over the news and political agenda by a single media organization

creates a risk of causing harm to New Zealand’s democracy and to the New Zealand public,” the anti-trust regulator said. Australian-owned Fairfax NZ publishes titles such as Wellington’s Dominion Post and the Christchurch Press, as well as running New Zealand’s most popular news website stuff.co.nz. NZME owns the New Zealand Herald, which has the second largest news website, and a string of radio stations. Fairfax Media’s Sydney-based chief executive Greg Hywood said the NZCC had “failed New Zealand” by stopping two local companies from aggressively competing on their home soil against the big internet companies. “This decision does nothing to address the challenge of the global search and social giants, which produce no local journalism, employ very few New Zealanders and pay minimal, if any, local taxes,” he said in a statement. AFP

10. On 27 June 2016, final confirmatory electrical test was conducted. Based from the results of the tests, the power transformer was no longer safe to be energized and was declared for replacement due to the following significant findings: (a) High % Insulation Power Factor (IPF) on H-G and X-G windings; (b) Increased in dielectric watts loss of H-G and X-G winding insulations; (c) Low insulation resistance on H-G and X-G windings; (d) Low insulation resistance between core and ground; and (e) Increased in primary excitation current in all phases as compared to the previous test results. 11. Accordingly, from 20 June to 28 June 2016, the loads of Balintawak Transformer Bank No. 6 had to be transferred to adjacent power transformers with 115kV-34.5kV rating namely, Balintawak 83-MVA Bank No. 5, Sta. Mesa 83-MVA Bank Nos. 5 and 7, Bagbaguin 83-MVA Bank No. 1, Diliman 83-MVA Bank No. 3, Kamuning 83-MVA Bank No. 2, Grace Park 83-MVA Bank No. 1 and Kaybiga 83-MVA Bank No. 2. 12. However, when Banawe Substation was commissioned on 29 June 2016, Banawe power transformer bank was able to permanently accommodate at normal load level the portion of loads of Balintawak Transformer Bank No. 6 that were previously transferred to Sta. Mesa 83MVA Bank Nos. 5 and 7, Bagbaguin 83-MVA Bank No. 1, Diliman 83-MVA Bank No. 3, Kamuning 83-MVA Bank No. 2. 13. Nonetheless, there was still a need to temporarily shift the other remaining portion of loads of the Balintawak Power Transformer Bank No. 6 to adjacent power transformers particularly, Balintawak 83-MVA Bank No. 5, Grace Park 83-MVA Bank No. 1 and Kaybiga 83-MVA Bank No. 2. 14. With such a set-up, Balintawak Bank No. 5 at and Grace Park 83-MVA Bank No. 1 were operating at critical level at 78% and 72% respectively. With the critical loading of the said power transformers, any outage of these power transformers may result to prolonged and massive interruption in the affected areas. In particular, the same will adversely affect the supply of electricity to customers in said areas which include Universal Steel Smelting Corp., Inc., Trinoma North Triangle Depot Commercial Corp., Light Rail Rectifier Substations, Maynilad and Manila Central University Hospital. 15. Considering the adverse effect of shifting the loads of said failed power transformer to the adjacent power transformers, a stop gap measure had to be undertaken. Hence, Applicant was constrained to use an available 83-MVA Power Transformer with No-Load Tap Changer (NLTC) to temporarily replace the defective transformer, pending the acquisition of a new power transformer with OLTC from abroad. The temporary replacement power transformer was energized on 10 July 2016. 16. However, there is a need to replace the power transformer with NLTC with a new power transformer with OLTC considering that the same is incapable of providing flexibility for tying and carrying the feeder loads served by the adjacent power transformers. Hence, voltage regulation problems may be experienced by customers and the load capacity of

4,989,142 kWh

18. In view of the foregoing, there is a need to implement the emergency project for replacement of 83-MVA Power Transformer in Balintawak substation.

BACKGROUND

Art Of The In-Between’ Costume Institute Gala at the Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 1, 2017, in New York City. AFP

5,398,578 kWh Table 2: With Project

MERALCO, likewise, alleged the following in its Application:

6. However, for purposes of recovering the capital cost of the emergency project through the DU’s rates, the same will go through the process of evaluation by the Honorable Commission during the regulatory reset of the DU, unless there is basis for a rate-reopening in the current regulatory period, in accordance with the Rules for the Setting of Distribution Wheeling Rates (RDWR) for DUs.

GALA. Elle Fanning attends the ‘Rei Kawakubo/Comme des Garcons:

foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said. The military pact automatically renews every 20 years, most recently in 2001, meaning it is now valid through 2021. Last year, Xi and Kim exchanged messages to mark the treaty’s 55th anniversary. The Chinese president wrote that both sides have cooperated in the “spirit” of the treaty and that their “friendship serves as a precious wealth.” The treaty, Kim responded, “has become a ﬁrm legal foundation for constantly consolidating the friendly and cooperative relations that were forged in the bloody struggle for independence against imperialism and for socialism.” AFP

PRAYER WHEREFORE, it is respectfully prayed to this Honorable Commission that the Applicant’s emergency replacement of power transformer at the Balintawak Substation be APPROVED. Other relief just and equitable under the premises are likewise prayed for. The Commission has set the said Application for determination of compliance with the jurisdictional requirements, expository presentation, Pre-trial Conference, and presentation of evidence on 24 May 2017 at one o’clock in the afternoon (1:00 P.M.), at the ERC Hearing Room, 15th Floor, Pacific Center, San Miguel Avenue, Pasig City. All persons who have an interest in the subject matter of the instant case may become a party by filing with the Commission a verified Petition to Intervene at least five (5) days prior to the initial hearing and subject to the requirements under Rule 9 of the 2006 Rules of Practice and Procedure, indicating therein the docket number and title of the case and stating the following: i.

The petitioner’s name and address;

ii. The nature of petitioner’s interest in the subject matter of the proceeding and the way and manner in which such interest is affected by the issues involved in the proceeding; and iii. A statement of the relief desired. All other persons who may want their views known to the Commission with respect to the subject matter of the case may file their Opposition or Comment thereon at any stage of the proceeding before Applicants rest their case, subject to the requirements under Rule 9 of the 2006 Rules of Practice and Procedure. No particular form of Opposition or Comment is required, but the document, letter or writing should contain the following: 1) The name and address of such person; 2) A concise statement of the Opposition or Comment; and 3) The grounds relied upon. All such persons who wish to have a copy of the Application may request from Applicants that they be furnished with the same, prior to the date of the initial hearing. Applicants are hereby directed to furnish all those making such request with copies of the Application and its attachments, subject to the reimbursement of reasonable photocopying costs. Any such person may likewise examine the Application and other pertinent records filed with the Commission during the standard office hours. WITNESS, the Honorable Chairman JOSE VICENTE B. SALAZAR,and the Honorable Commissioners ALFREDO J. NON, GLORIA VICTORIA C. YAP-TARUC, JOSEFINA PATRICIA A. MAGPALEASIRIT,and GERONIMO D. STA. ANA,Energy Regulatory Commission,this 6thday of March 2017 at Pasig City. ATTY. NATHAN J. MARASIGAN Chief of Staff Office of the Chairman and CEO (MS-APR 27/MAY 4, 2017)

Cesar Barrioquinto, Editor

THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017

World

Maduro’s critics set rally against plan on charter C ARACAS― Venezuela’s angry opposition is set to hold a huge protest rally Wednesday against unpopular President Nicolas Maduro’s proposal to rewrite the constitution, dismissing it as a ploy to avoid holding elections and cling to power.

In an oil-rich country saddled with shortages of food, medicine and such basics as soap and toilet paper, a steady wave of protests against the socialist Maduro and his government has been on for more than a month. And the death toll from violence at the rallies rose to 29 Tuesday with word from the government that a young man it said had been looting was shot by a shopkeeper in the northern city of Valencia. Barricades of rubbish and bins blocked streets in Venezuela on Tuesday in big protests that seem likely to intensify after Maduro announced his idea of electing a constituent assembly to write a new constitution. That body would not include political parties with seats in congress but rather representatives of social sectors such as workers, farmers and other communities. His plan, announced Monday, has inﬂamed the opposition, which is calling for even bigger demonstrations to demand elections. Wednesday’s rally is being described as a “mega protest.” “The idea is not to consult with the people, but rather for the ruling party itself to choose so as to have a tailor-made constitution,” said Freddy Guevara, deputy speaker of the opposition controlled National Assembly. “We have to up the pressure in the streets,” he said Tuesday. The Venezuelan opposition says the gambit further weakens the chances of holding a vote to remove Maduro, whom they blame for the economic crisis that has sparked the food shortages and rioting. A presidential election is supposed to be held next year. The opposition has been pushing for months to oust Maduro from power through a recall vote. But that effort stalled. Polls show that more than 70 percent of people interviewed do not support Maduro, a former bus driver hand-picked by the late Hugo Chavez to succeed him. AFP

Clinton says FBI, Putin cost her election NEW YORK—Hillary Clinton on Tuesday laid the blame for her defeat in last year’s White House race squarely at the feet of FBI director James Comey and Russia’s Vladimir Putin, saying they had “scared off” voters. The Democrat, speaking at a charity luncheon in New York, said she took “absolute personal responsibility” for a series of campaign blunders that contributed to her loss to Donald Trump. But she pointed a ﬁnger at Russian hacking and interference and at the Federal Bureau of Investigation director, who revealed just before the November 8 election he was re-opening a probe into Clinton’s use of a personal email server while serving as secretary of state. “I was on the way to winning until a combination of Jim Comey’s letter on October 28th and Russian WikiLeaks raised doubts in the minds of people who were inclined to vote for me, but got scared off,” Clinton said. “If the election had been on October 27, I’d be your president.” Trump responded hours later with a pair of snarky tweets, attacking Clinton and saying the Russia affair was a Democratic ploy to justify her loss to him. In January the US intelligence community announced it had concluded Russia interfered in the election―and that Putin himself ordered a campaign to undermine the US democratic process and harm Clinton’s electability in order to help Trump win. Clinton described the Russian president as someone who was “not a member of my fan club.” “He certainly interfered in our election and it was clear he hurt me and helped my opponent,” she said. Clinton pointed to the release of an old video tape on October 7 on which Trump is heard crudely discussing groping women, and how “within an hour or two” of the tapes’ release, the Russian theft of Clinton staffers’ emails was made public on WikiLeaks. “What a coincidence. You just can’t make this stuff up,” she said. Clinton’s remarks―which echoed CIA comments branding WikiLeaks a “hostile intelligence service” abetted by the likes of Russia―were the most extensive and direct about her loss since the shock result last year. AFP

North Korea confirms arrest of US professor

LA LOREN. This ﬁle photo taken on January 1, 1964, shows Italian actress Sophia Loren during the Cannes Film Festival. AFP

Police struggling to locate Red Bull heir BANGKOK―Thai police said Wednesday they were trying to locate Red Bull heir Worayuth Yoovidhya who reportedly fled to Singapore on his private jet days before a warrant was issued for him over a fatal hit-and-run in 2012. After years of dodging prosecutors, 32-year-old billionaire Worayuth has become a poster child for the impunity enjoyed by elites in starkly unequal Thailand. Authorities finally issued an arrest warrant for the scion last week after he failed to make a final deadline to meet prosecutors―nearly five years after he sped off after mowing down and killing a policeman with his Ferrari in downtown Bangkok. But Worayuth, known by his nickname “Boss,” slipped out of the country just days before the warrant was issued, according to police.

“First we have to locate him and then we have to go from there. If we can’t locate him then we can’t do the next step,” deputy national police spokesman Colonel Krissana Pattanacharoen told AFP. Immigration ofﬁcers told local media Worayuth left for Singapore on his private jet on April 25. Police are seeking to conﬁrm whether he is still there. The two countries do not have an extradition treaty. Krissana said investigators were seeking to have his Thai passport revoked. “We have contacted the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to see if it’s possible to revoke his passport,” he said. Ministry spokeswoman Busadee Santipitaks told AFP: “We have not received any formal communication but stand ready to cooperate with law enforcement agencies.”

Several charges against Worayuth have expired during the lapse between the car crash and his arrest warrant, a period that saw the heir continue to lead a lavish, jet-setting lifestyle with frequent stops in the kingdom. But he still faces up to 10 years in prison for reckless driving that resulted in death, an offense that will be valid until 2027. Worayuth’s billionaire clan has inherited the fortune built up by his grandfather Chaleo Yoovidhya, who co-founded the Red Bull brand with Austrian Dietrich Mateschitz in the 1980s. Chaleo passed away in March 2012, leaving his family some $22 billion and control of more than 50 percent of the energy drink empire, according to Bloomberg. AFP

SEOUL―North Korea on Wednesday confirmed the arrest of a US professor for trying to “overturn” the regime, as tensions spike between the isolated nuclear-armed nation and Washington. Kim Sang-Duk, or Tony Kim, became the third American held in the North when he was detained at the capital’s airport on April 22 as he tried to leave the country, after teaching for several weeks at an elite university. In the North’s first confirmation of the professor’s detention, the official Korean Central News Agency said he had been held for “committing criminal acts of hostility aimed to overturn the DPRK”, using an abbreviation for the country’s official name. It added that Kim was “under detention by a relevant law enforcement body which is conducting detailed investigation into his crimes”. The confirmation of Kim’s detention comes as Pyongyang issues increasingly belligerent rhetoric in a tense stand-off with the administration of new US President Donald Trump over its rogue weapons program. Kim had been teaching accounting at the Pyongyang University of Science and Technology, which said last month that the professor had been held. The school―founded by evangelical Christians from overseas and opened in 2010―is known to have a number of American faculty members and pupils are generally children from the country’s elite. In a statement in late April the university said the arrest was “not connected in any way with the work of PUST”. It added that the Swedish embassy in Pyongyang―which handles issues involving US citizens as Washington has no diplomatic ties with the North―was “actively involved” in talks. AFP

Strong blast targets NATO convoy KABUL―A powerful blast targeting an armored NATO convoy in Kabul killed at least eight people and wounded 25 Wednesday, including three coalition soldiers, ofﬁcials said days after the Taliban announced their spring offensive. The attack, which came during morning rush hour on a busy road near the US embassy and NATO headquarters, killed mostly civilians, an interior ministry spokesman told AFP without giving a breakdown. NATO said three coalition soldiers had received “non-life threatening wounds”. “[They] are in stable condition, and are currently being treated at coalition medical facilities,” a spokesman for US Forces-Afghanistan said, without conﬁrming their nationalities. No group has yet claimed responsibility for the blast, which underscores the threat faced by international and Afghan forces

against the resurgent Taliban as the US seeks to craft a new strategy in Afghanistan and NATO mulls boosting troop levels. The blast, which NATO said was an improvised explosive device, damaged two of the heavily armored MRAP (Mine Resistant Ambush Protected) vehicles carrying the foreign soldiers and left a small crater in the road, witnesses and an AFP photographer said. MRAPs, which are designed to withstand large explosions, are routinely used by international forces moving around Kabul. At least three civilian cars were also damaged, with one ablaze, while windows even several hundred meters away were shattered. Fireﬁghters and ambulances rushed stunned survivors to hospital. One security source told AFP that a white Toyota Corolla had exploded as the convoy drove by, though that had not been veriﬁed

by ofﬁcials. Pentagon chief Jim Mattis warned of “another tough year” for both foreign troops and local forces in Afghanistan when he visited Kabul last month. He would not be drawn on calls by NATO commander in Afghanistan General John Nicholson for a “few thousand” more troops to break the “stalemate” against the insurgents. But NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg told a German newspaper Sunday that the 28-nation alliance was considering boosting its troop strength once more given the “challenging” security situation. The US has around 8,400 troops in the country with about another 5,000 from NATO allies. Most are taking part in NATO’s train, assist and advise mission, though some are also carrying out counter-terror missions targeting the Islamic State group and Al-Qaeda. AFP

PHOTOCALL. This ﬁle photo taken on May 18, 2011, shows US actress Kirsten Dunst, left, Danish director Lars Von Trier and French actress Charlotte Gainsbourg posing during the photocall of ‘Melancholia’ presented in competition at the 64th Cannes Film Festival in Cannes. AFP

Life SPEAKS Y Sarah Geronimo

Isah V. Red, Editor Bernadette Lunas, Writer isahred@gmail.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS

THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017

OUR voice plays an integral part in your everyday activities. However, it is inevitable that your lifestyle could take its toll on your voice, like when you get sore throat.

Sore throat is normally caused by viruses or bacteria. That’s why sometimes beyond just irritation or itchiness, you feel pain in swallowing and swelling. Several other things can cause sore throat. In a tropical country like the Philippines, there are different factors that can take a toll on your system. Changes in temperature and weather can affect your throat. Other factors of sore throat are also airborne such as outdoor pollution, allergens in the air, smoking cigarettes, and second-hand smoking. Excessive and forceful usage of your voice can also cause muscle strain. Presenting Kamillosan M Spray—a clinically proven all-natural sore throat spray solution. It contains eight active ingredients that effectively soothe and relieve sore throat. These eight ingredients (Chamomile extract, Methyl salicylate, Peppermint oil, Sage oil, Anise oil, dwarf pine needle oil, Bergamot oil, Cineol)—work together in fighting and treating sore throat. Its main ingredient, Chamomile, acts as an anti-inflammatory agent to reduce pain, swelling, and redness. Combined with the anti-bacterial effects of essential oils such as Peppermint, Sage, and Bergamot, Kamillosan M is highly

suited for sore throat relief. The natural ingredients also lend to the minty fresh sweet aftertaste, unlike the other medicinal throat sprays in the market today. Kamillosan M Spray is from A. Menarini Philippines, which belongs to one of the largest Italian biopharmaecutical groups, Menarini. On April 21, Kamillosan launched its latest campaign with a new endorser at Discovery Primea. This was also the venue where Kamillosan launched its Speak Up advocacy—in the hopes of making the brand mean more to the market beyond just providing relief from sore throat. While waiting for the event to start, guests were requested to participate in the Kamillosan video booth, and record their answers to the question, “How do you encourage people with the power of your voice?” These videos were then shown at the end of the program and uploaded on the brand’s official Facebook page, Kamillosan PH. The actual event kicked off with a brief welcome and introduction from A. Menarini Philippines’ general manager Ninia Torres. This was followed by an overview on sore throat by Dr. Clarissa Fortuna, supported by a product dis-

THE VOICE. Kamillosan brand endorser Sarah Geronimo motivates everyone to speak up and use their voice without any hindrance. cussion from the brand’s medical manager, Dr. Gabby Santos. But the voice that got everyone speaking up was Kamillosan’s newest endors-

Sarah leads the introduction of Kamillosan M Spray, a clinically proven all-natural sore throat spray solution

Health institute offers alternative methods to fight diseases TO SPREAD the gospel of good health and long life, Drs. Cris and Linda Enriquez founded Rapha Health Institute at Greenbelt 5 in Makati City in 2010. Dr. Cris conceived and developed the idea while he was still in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA, where he and Dr. Linda practiced medicine for over 40 years before coming back to the Philippines. With a mission to help improve the wellness of fellow Filipinos—primarily prevent and reverse sickness and diseases without using drugs and surgery—Dr. Cris aimed to encourage development of good health habits. Said good health habits involve preventive measures that make visits to doctors and hospitals, prescription drugs, and surgery unnecessary. Rapha Health Institute integrates the best of Western Medicine with the most innovative of alternative and complementary medicine ensuring a healthy and longer life.

It offers three services, namely: Stress Management, Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement, and IV Therapy protocols to reverse chronic degenerative diseases. Noting that 68 to 85 percent of all diseases are related to stress directly or indirectly, Rapha Health Institute’s Stress Management Program helps normalize the system of the body. It uses natural cortisol to address adrenal fatigue. In addition, IV treatment using chelation, hydrogen peroxide, and vitamin infusion, with proper diet, exercise, adequate rest are used to correct deficiencies and hormonal imbalance. Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy, on the other hand, addresses symptoms of menopause, perimenopause, dysmenorrhea, changes that occur after hysterectomy, loss of sexual drive, erectile dysfunction, and other symptoms associated with aging. BHRT replaces and balances deficient

hormones in the body. Rapha Health is also the only institute in the Philippines that offers Metabolic Typing, a program that determines a person’s metabolic type for proper diet management, which prevents and reverses chronic degenerative diseases. In addition to its Greenbelt 5 branch, the health institute has three more clinics in Barangay South Triangle in Quezon City, SM Masinag in Antipolo City, and Barangay Balagtas in Batangas City. Rapha Health’s sister company, The Healthy Life located in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig, is managed by Dr. Linda. It offers Ozone Therapy for immediate relief of joint pains. Rapha Health also has a drugstore in Guadalupe Nuevo in Makati City that offers organic and herbal products. Contact the main branch at (02) 7573335 or 0917-8920790 or visit www. raphahealth.ph for more information.

Dr. Cris Enriquez, who practices Cardiology, Internal Medicine, Pulmonary Medicine, and Radiology, founded Rapha Health Institute that integrates the best of Western Medicine with the most innovative of alternative and complementary medicine.

er—Sarah Geronimo. She charmed everyone in her grand entrance as she powerfully sang and captured hearts, as she always does. Sarah also shared her own singing journey, which highlighted how she learned to be an inspiration and motivation to others by power of voice and positivity—making her the perfect fit for Kamillosan’s Speak Up campaign. “The essence of our campaign is to really encourage people to speak up with the help of Kamillosan. Just like Sarah, we hope to inspire people to pursue their passion without any hindrance along the way, especially sore throat,” shared Patty Nuqui, marketing director of Kamillosan.

“We are truly proud and delighted to have this opportunity to not just introduce a product we support and believe in, but to have Kamillosan take the higher ground and mean more to people than just a product for sore throat,” Torres, added. The event ended on a high note with some of the guests creating cheers that captured the essence of Kamillosan and the Speak Up campaign. Kamillosan is available in all leading drugstores nationwide at P428.00 SRP. A 15mL bottle of Kamillosan is good for 104 sprays. To know more about Kamillosan, visit www.kamillosan.ph and like Kamillosan PH on Facebook.

The team of Philippine Gamma Knife Center is composed of Dr. Levi Maliwat, Dr. Theodor Vesagas, Dr. Monserrat Velasquez, Dr. Eduardo Mercado, Dr. Michael Gimenez, Dr. Gilbert Ranoa and Dr. Jose Aguilar

Beams of Hope

for Brain Tumor patients IMAGINE hearing a diagnosis of “brain tumor” for a pain you thought was a toothache—a tumor pressing on a nerve at the base of the brain resulting in debilitating pain on the side of your face. Now imagine a loved one enduring numerous invasive procedures and medication, yet the cancer in the brain keeps on growing. The truth is, these scenarios aren’t too difficult to imagine. Today, brain cancer is one of the top 10 leading causes of cancer death in the Philippines. While not all brain tumors are cancerous, the ensuing feeling of hopelessness after such a discovery is overwhelming. A diagnosis of a brain tumor often means traditional brain surgery: invasive procedures that carry with it high-risk especially for the delicate tissues of the brain. However, through a breakthrough technology called Gamma Knife, more and more patients can now choose a noninvasive procedure proven to shrink brain tumors or stop its growth nearly 90 percent of the time. Gamma Knife actually uses gamma rays instead of the traditional surgical knife. This non-invasive procedure has the ability to target small brain tumors without hurting the surrounding healthy tissue. For every Gamma Knife surgery, a multidisciplinary team of neurosurgeons

and radiation oncologists carefully customize the dosage of gamma rays and deliver the exact amount with micro-precision with the help of state-of-the-art software. By using tiny beams of radiation, Gamma Knife surgery is able to treat hard-to-reach tumors that traditional open brain surgery cannot. More accurate targeting means being able to deliver a full dose of radiation at one time instead of multiple treatments. Considered an outpatient procedure that typically spans only a couple of hours, patients do not need to undergo shaving off their hair, general anesthesia, or endure incisions that leads to months-long recovery. Preferred procedure of neurosurgeons and patients Gamma Knife surgery is performed in the world’s leading hospitals. More than one million people have gone through this surgery, and it is the preferred procedure of neurosurgeons globally due to its minimal side effects and complications, and lower morbidity. In the country, the Philippine Gamma Knife Center is housed at the Cardinal Santos Memorial Hospital. The Philippine Gamma Knife Center is one of the multidisciplinary centers of the Brain and Spine Institute at Cardinal Santos Medical Center. Established in Continued on D2

Life

THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017 isahred@gmail.com

N A latest study by the Pulse Asia, it was revealed that “staying healthy and avoiding illnesses” is still the top personal concern among Filipinos across all regions and socio-economic classes.

That is why Healthway Medical, the most trusted and preferred network of mall-based clinics in the country, developed the SEED Lifestyle, an advocacy that promotes health awareness and preventive healthcare. It is comprised of four simple, easy-to-remember health tips that will help Filipinos to take charge of their own health.

Key to staying healthy and avoiding illnesses

Sleep

Sleep is essential for our bodies to regenerate. It impacts our memory, longevity and overall health by helping the body repair itself. It also reduces stress and inflammation. Adults are advised to have seven to nine hours of sound, uninterrupted sleep. To make your sleeping experience better, schedule your time for bed. It is also advisable that your room has a good and relaxing atmosphere. Try turning off the lights and listening to relaxing music and minimizing the use of electronic gadgets before sleeping. Avoid eating before sleeping as this will disrupt the sleep cycle.

Eat Right

Many of the diseases that affect us are directly related to poor eating hab-

Want to be healthy? Follow the SEED Lifestyle, composed of four easy-to-do and easy-to-remember tips, to keep your body in tiptop shape.

its. A diet that is high in sugars, saturated fats, and sodium are responsible for diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. Eliminating or reducing the consumption of foods rich in these will go a long way in ensuring a healthier body. Eating a well-balanced diet of unrefined carbohydrates like brown rice, lean meat, green leafy vegetable high in fiber and fresh fruits are best to stay healthy. If

Parabens

in your sunscreen HOW great it is to finally take a break from our demanding daily routines to unwind, relax and take on new adventures. Vacation season means island hopping, scuba diving, biking, mountain climbing or doing anything outdoors and having fun under the sun. Our excitement seeps throughout months of preparations. We set itineraries, religiously hit the gym to gain that summer body and excitedly shop for those handy and trendy outfits, travel kits and accessories. And there’s that one necessity we never ever dare to forget to pack. It’s our ultimate ally in skin care that protects us from the sun’s ultraviolet radiation that can damage and prematurely age our skin, or worse, cause skin cancer. We are talking about our best summer buddy—sunscreen.

Banned by FDA

Unsafe suncreens

Check your sunscreen

Good thing is that the Philippines promote “paraben-free” products. Through the 21st ASEAN Cosmetic Committee Meeting in 2014, it has been decided and acted upon by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) - Center for Cosmetics Regulation and Research (CCRR) to ban selected parabens that may be found in cosmetic products. According to the FDA Advisory No. 2016-032, the banned parabens are Isopropylparaben, Isobutylparaben, Benzylparaben, Phenylparaben and Pentylparaben. Since January 2016, products with any of the five identified parabens are not to be sold, or placed, in the Philippine market, though there are still some products in the market that may contain these harmful ingredients.

With the right amount of Sun ProIt is important to practice to check tection Factor (SPF), we go out and the label, go through the list of ingredifeel confident of our skin’s health ents and watch out for any of the FDA-

you have a sweet tooth, always remem- De-stress ber to exercise moderation and avoid De-stressing helps relax the body indulging in sweets often. and the mind. Among the countless ways to do this are meditating, eating Exercise mood-boosting foods, getting a masThe benefits of exercise cannot be sage, and getting into a hobby. As the over explained. As cliché as it may name suggests, however, getting rid seem, exercising is still one of the best of anxiety should not be stressful. It is ways to ward off diseases. It does not important to determine which activionly promote weight loss, but also ties relax and energize you and which boosts brainpower and performance, do not. increases metabolism, improves blood “The greatest wealth is still our circulation, and reduces stress. Being health. Achieving material wealth is stuck in front of your desk is not an ex- pointless if it comes at the expense of cuse not to exercise. There are simple your health,” said Carmie de Leon, office exercises you can learn to get rid vice president for Sales and Marketof neck and back pain. ing of Healthway Medical. “Helping

Women and UTI WHILE most health conditions affect both women and men, there are certain diseases that are more common in one gender than in the other. One of these is Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) which females are more prone to. It is said to be the most common extra-intestinal infectious disease entity in women worldwide with a high prevalence and frequency of recurrence. It has been estimated that up to one-third of all women will experience at least an episode of UTI during their lifetime. The female anatomy makes UTIs especially problematic for women. UTI occurs when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra, the tube that connects the urinary bladder to the genitals, and transports and discharges urine outside the body. The shorter urethra of women, compared to men, allows the bacteria to reach the bladder more easily. Female urethra is just one and a half inches long; in contrast the male urethra measures eight inches in length. Another factor is the close proximity of the urethral opening to the vagina and anus, both of which serve as fertile environments for bacteria. Because the urethra is in front of the vagina, bacteria near the vagina can be pushed into the urethra during sexual intercourse. This is why UTI is more prevalent among sexually active women. UTI tends to occur in women when they begin having sex or engage in it more often. During pregnancy, a woman is at even higher risk of contracting UTI. Hormones cause changes in the urinary tract, which predisposes a pregnant woman to infections. Add to this the growing uterus which presses on the bladder, preventing the complete emptying of urine. Some urine may then pool in the bladder. Germs (bacteria) are likely to multiply and cause infection in a stagnant pool of urine. Men-

Check the label on your sunscreen to find out if it contains harmful parabens

and safety. However, did you know that some sunscreens might actually cause you more harm than the sun? You might have to check if the product you use contains ingredients known as Parabens. These are easy to spot on the product labels because it all ends in “paraben”. These are preservatives inhibiting the growth of bacteria, yeast, and molds to extend the shelf life of products. These are also used in other cosmetic and personal care products such as shampoos, conditioners, deodorants, toothpastes, facial and shower cleansers, body scrubs, and different kinds of lotions. Since the 1950’s, Parabens have been used for cosmetic and personal healthcare. Through various research studies, it was then known that this kind of chemical can penetrate and be absorbed through the skin which has been linked to cases of endocrine and reproductive problems, developmental disorders, skin irritation and even some types of cancer.

banned parabens when buying or before applying sunscreen. When unsure of the product, you may always refrain from using it yourself or any of your loved ones. We know, it is better to be safe than sorry. If you find a product that contains the banned parabens, you may directly report this by sending an email to report@fda.gov.ph or contact the FDA CCRR Customer Service Hotline at (02) 857-1984. SGS offers cosmetic and personal care testing services that will meet regulatory requirements and ensure product safety. Its cosmetics testing portfolio includes physical and chemical testing, microbiological tests, stability studies, toxicological testing, ecotoxicology studies, product performance testing and packaging performance test. For more inquiries about the cosmetics and personal healthcare testing services, you can send an email to sgsphilipppines@sgs.com or like and drop a message on its official Facebook page @SGSPhilippines.

Filipinos to stay well and healthy has always been the core purpose of Healthway Medical. Aside from the SEED Lifestyle, our patients can also count on the quality medical services and excellent patient-care experience that our clinic and our qualified doctors offer.” Visit any Healthway Medical branches at the Alabang Town Center, Greenbelt 5, Shangri-La Plaza, SM The Block, Market! Market!, Festival Mall, and 8 Adriatico to avail of its extensive services. For more information about Healthway Medical and its complete service roster, visit healthway.com.ph.

Those suffering from UTI experience pain or burning when urinating, as well as, pain, pressure or tenderness in the area of the bladder.

Beams... From D1 1998, the Philippine Gamma Knife Center has since performed almost 3,000 successful Gamma Knife procedures since it launched. The center is committed to provide the Filipino patient neurosurgical care and technology that was previously only available outside of the country. It has acquired the Leksell Gamma Knife Perfexion, the most accurate and most advanced radiosurgery technology available in the world today.

The shorter urethra of women, compared to men, allows the bacteria to reach the bladder more easily.

opause also increases the risk of getting a UTI. During menopause, the level of the female hormone estrogen decreases. This decrease can cause changes in the tissues around the urethra that can lead to a UTI. Advanced age, which usually coincides with menopause, also has various debilitating effects on the pelvic area organs and tissues. While most urinary tract infections start in the lower urinary tract made up of the urethra and bladder, it can lead to a kidney infection if left untreated. Bacteria that have infected the bladder may travel to the upper urinary tract made up of the ureters and the kidneys. A lower urinary tract or bladder infection usually causes pain or burning when urinating. There is a frequent urge to urinate though only a small amount is passed. Urine may look cloudy and smell foul or unusually strong. There may be pain, pressure, or tenderness in the area of the bladder. In upper urinary tract infection, symptoms may include back pain, chills, fever, nausea and vomiting. Urinalysis is performed to initially determine if there is an infection. A urine sample is studied in the lab for presence of white and red blood cells and bacteria. If either of these is detected, the patient may have UTI. The urine sample may be grown in a culture to know which bacteria are present. As treatment for UTI, antibiotics are usually prescribed. The problem here is that the frequent intake of antibiotics to treat UTI, as for recurring infection, can lead to side effects such as liver disease. Also, patients who repeatedly take antibiotics for their UTI eventually develop resistance to the medication as the bacteria build their resistance over time. An effective alternative is the all-natural CranUTI Cranberry Supplement. Each capsule of CranUTI contains 350mg of cranberry extract. It is a rich source of Proanthocyanidin antioxidant which prevents E. Coli and other UTI-causing bacteria from sticking to the urinary tract. Dosage is one to two capsules daily. CranUTI is available at Mercury Drugstores and other drugstores nationwide in sachet foils of 10 capsules (P120), jars of 60 capsules (P660), and pack of 100 capsules (P1200). CranUTI customer hotlines are (02) 5246549, (02) 354-2208 to 09 and mobile numbers 0947-4890262, 0928-3224217. It is FDA-approved and is safe for children, pregnant women, and senior citizens.

Dr. Ted Vesagas explains, “Perfexion now has an eXtend program, which allows the delivery of multiple sessions of Gamma Knife by using a head cushion to immobilize the patient’s head—it improves their tolerance for multi-session procedures. Before, treatments that took three to five consecutive days would be difficult for the patient. This means, Perfexion can now safely treat brain tumors that require more than one session of Gamma Knife Radiosurgery.” He adds that over 280 successful procedures have been undertaken using Perfexion at the center. With this new technol-

ogy available in the country, more people will be able to overcome the devastating diagnosis of a brain tumor because of the beams of hope that the Gamma Knife Perfexion surgery delivers. To find out if Gamma Knife Surgery is right for you, call the Philippine Gamma Knife Center, Inc. at 7259254 or 7237575. You may also send an email at info@gammaknife.com.ph or visit the center at Cardinal Santos Medical Center compound Wilson Street, Greenhills, San Juan Metro Manila. For more information visit www.gammaknife.com.ph

THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017

A BICOLANA

is 2017 Miss Universe Philippines By Eton B. Concepcion Photo by Sonny Espiritu

ACHEL Louise Peters, a stunning 25-year-old Fil-Brit beauty with a million dollar legs, was crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2017 during the glittering grand coronation ﬁnals at Smart Araneta Coliseum Sunday night. She succeeds Maxine Medina as the country’s representative to the annual Miss Universe pageant. Peters’ mother is from Camarines Sur in the Bicol region.

An event organizer, the new Bb. Pilipinas-Universe nailed the Q&A with a quick reply to PhilippineEuropean Union Ambassador Franz Jessen question, “This week, the Philippines hosted the ASEAN Summit. If you were invited to speak, what would have been your message to the leaders?” “I believe one of the biggest problems that our country is facing today is divisiveness in politics, in religion and also in culture. And I believe that it is something that is the same across the world. And that is something I would want to address. I believe that when people can learn to tolerate each other’s differences and respect each other’s opinions, then we will just be a stronger nation and world,” was her answer that swayed the judges’ nod to her favor. Peters, who was fourth Princess at the 2014 Miss World Philippines, also bagged the Miss Photogenic, Best in Swimsuit and Jag Denim Jeans Queen special awards. She loves dogs and rides horses as well as goes to the beach.Peters ﬁnished Business, Tourism & Events at La Trobe University in Australia and an International Baccalaureate at the British School in Phuket, Thailand. Confessing she is a Filipino at heart, Peters has captured CamSur governor Migs Villafuerte’s heart. Maria Angelica de Leon, 23, daughter of couple Christopher de Leon and Sandy Andolong, became the fourth actor’s daughter to win a major title after Chat Silayan, Charlene Gonzales, and Ruffa Gutierrez. The opera singer and Culinary Arts graduate in New Zealand, was crowned by reigning Miss International Kylie Versoza and will try to keep the Miss International crown for the second

THE world’s unstoppable spies are back in Kingsman: The Golden Circle directed by Matthew Vaughn who also helmed the phenomenal blockbuster Kingsman: The Secret Service that introduced a street kid into the world of espionage. In the latest installment, Taron Egerton reprises his role as Eggsy along with returning powerhouse cast led by Colin Firth, Mark Strong, Michael Caine and Sophie Cookson. This time, the returning Kingsmen are joined by new exciting and awardwinning cast members including Sir Elton John, Jeff Bridges, Channing Tatum, Halle Berry, and Julianne Moore. In the recently revealed ﬁrst trailer of Kingsman: The

consecutive year. “I think I can box better than males. I believe I can do everything better than males because it isn’t about gender at all. It’s about your abilities, your strength, your weaknesses and your confidence within yourself. With that, you can achieve anything,” De Leon, the Best in Evening Gown and Miss Creamsilk winner, answered when asked, “What activity that is maleoriented that you can equally do as well if not better than males?” The Q&A portion proved to be nerve-wracking once again, especially to Sirene Sutton who ran out of time before she could even think of an answer to the question “Is it right for parents to demand support from children in exchange of raising them?” Majority, though, of the Top 15 candidates answered questions ranging from traffic, same-sex marriage to imposition of death penalty well if not with flying colors. A major change was made in this year’s pageant with the naming of 25 semi-finalists, an additional 10 from the previous years. Unfortunately, this change did not work to either of the sisters Kimberly and Dindi Pajares. Katarina Sonja Rodriguez, 24, a Business Management and Philosophy graduate of De la Salle University, was named Miss Philippine Airlines (PAL). She also made a very good impression during the Q&A. “My definition of a winner is somebody who understands that winning isn’t just about the reward, it’s because of the responsibility that comes along when you win and how you execute the job after

The ‘Kingsman’ is back

A scene from the second installment of comedy action espionage ﬁlm, “Kingsman: The Golden Circle”

Thursday, May 4, 2017

Milo? 55 Thumps 57 Percent ending 58 Wall climbers 60 Spring fragrance 65 Where fishes play 66 — incognita 67 Border state 68 Biddy 69 Ironfisted 70 Short composition DOWN 1 Dog show org. 2 Sign before Virgo 3 Lennon’s wife 4 PBS “Science Guy” 5 Vampire repellent 6 Ache 7 Paton or Thicke 8 Metal thread 9 Shoguns’ capital 10 Just said no 11 Mutiny 12 Reckon 13 Horse opera 21 Squirrel hangouts 23 Favor 24 Castro or Guevara 25 Battery’s “+” end

26 Bwana’s track 27 Skip (2 wds.) 28 Secure a tent 30 Consumer advocate 31 New Age singer 34 Letterman rival 36 Tier 37 Groundswell 38 Tacked on 43 Unfold, to a poet 44 Come down to earth 47 Ushers in

Back-to-back noontime treat on ABS-CBN

you win. I think a winner is somebody who knows how to inspire others.” She was named Bb. Pilipinas Intercontinental. Other big winners were Nelda Ibe, 24, a cadet pilot (Bb. Pilipinas Globe), Fil-Romanian guitarist Elizabeth Durado Clenci, 26, was named Bb. Pilipinas Grand International; and Chanel Olive Thomas, 26, a Business Administration graduate, Bb. Pilipinas Supranational. Thomas was also named Miss Friendship. Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach hosted the show with actor Xian Lim and 2010 Miss Universe 4th runner-up Venus Raj. Daniel Padilla serenaded the Top 15 candidates with “The Way You Look Tonight.” Other guest performers were Daryl O n g , JR and Jason Dee.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE ACROSS 1 Moving right — 6 Veered 11 Pooh’s pal 14 Safari country 15 Leave out 16 Ecol. bureau 17 Dove or pigeon 18 “Hammerin’ Hank” 19 Drill attachment 20 Ben on “Bonanza” 22 Singer — Cara 24 Volga outlet 28 Kitchen gadget 29 Empty out 30 Has to have 32 Catcalls 33 Breezy talk 35 Lohengrin’s bride 39 Fusses 40 Actress — Williams 41 Whittier heroine 42 Emperor before Galba 43 Cager Shaq 45 Polar explorer 46 Fog or steam 48 Claim to be true 50 Get in the way 53 Made a mean face 54 Fix Venus de

Gerald Anderson and Kim Chiu reunite in the afternoon drama “Ikaw Lang ang Iibigin”

49 Mr. Nielsen 50 South Bend team 51 Brawl 52 Joyous outburst 53 Lazy — 55 Poop out 56 Frau’s spouse 59 Rover’s doc 61 Carder’s demands 62 — Cruces, N.M. 63 Just as I thought! 64 Flirtatious

ABS-CBN’s newest series Ikaw Lang ang Iibigin and It’s Showtime will ﬁll viewers’ television screens with love and joy in a back-to-back noontime treat in PrimeTanghali that started last Monday. Noontime will never be the same for viewers nationwide as they get a daily dose of “kilig” from the most-awaited reunion of Kim Chiu and Gerald Anderson, with Jake Cuenca and Coleen Garcia. The fun will also continue in It’s Showtime with superstars Anne Curtis, Vhong Navarro and Phenomenal Box Ofﬁce Star Vice Ganda spreading good vibes to the madlang people. Meanwhile, Kim and Gerald are excited to share with viewers the story of love and family in Ikaw Lang Ang Iibigin.

Golden Circle, (https://youtu. be/b4ymLQNaYfg,) our heroes face a new challenge. When their headquarters are destroyed and the world is held hostage, their journey leads them to the discovery of an allied spy organization in the US called Statesman, dating back to the day they were both founded. In a new adventure that tests their agents’ strength and wits to the limit, these two elite secret organizations band together to defeat a ruthless common enemy, in order to save the world, something that’s becoming a bit of a habit for Eggsy. Prepare for a rip-roaring time at the movies when Kingsman: The Golden Circleopens on Sept. 20, from 20th Century Fox to be distributed by Warner Bros.

“Our comeback will be different this time. We would like to thank everyone in advance for their support every afternoon,” said Kim. “We are happy because we will have a platform to show our project. We believe in our material and we will give everything to this project for our fans,” said Gerald. Kimerald opens the month with Ikaw Lang ang Iibigin in which they play Bianca (Kim Chiu) and Gabriel (Gerald Anderson), who will ﬁght for their love and their dreams that will surely inspire viewers. It’s Showtime, meanwhile, continues to fulﬁll the madlang people’s dreams with fun and exciting segments “Twin It to Win It,” “Ginalingan Eh!,” and “Tawag ng Tanghalan Kids.”

Freestyle’s secret to longevity is optimism. Members of the showband have always believed that “change is always for the good.”

Isah V. Red, Editor Nickie Wang, Writer isahred@gmail.com THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017

After two decades,

FREESTYLE still on the scene

ITH such unforgettable hits as “Before I Let You Go,” “So Slow,” “This Time,” and “Bakit Ngayon Ka Lang,” Freestyle remains very much active after more than two decades on the local music scene. Despite the change of front liners, Freestyle has stood the test of time. The band is now under 1Entertainment Inc, with Celeste Pacana as manager. The current line-up of members include Joshua Desiderio and Mike Luis on vocals and keyboards, Rommel de la Cruz on bass guitar and Ava Santos, female vocalist. Drummer Gerd Banzon and lead guitarist/back-up vocals Tat Suzara are the only two original members in the group. They have admirably survived the change of front liners through the years. “They did it with great optimism,” says Pacana. “They always believed that change is always for the good, too.” In 2015, Freestyle released an independent album, Mga Kwentong Kinanta, featuring newest member, Ava. The album is trying to create a distinct and unique sound for the new members.

For instance, Ava can hold her own with the original hits of Freestyle, but she also developed her own interpretation of some OPM songs to make it her own. Joshua, meanwhile, came out with the hit, “Half Crazy” and Mike interpreted other songs like “Changes” and his infectious and entertaining Michael Jackson songs.” With the ever-changing trends on the local music scene, Freestyle has admirably coped with being a popular band. The band believes they must be aware and conscious of the present circumstances and embrace the new trends. It’s a struggle though, but the band knows they need to roll with the punches and get with the program. Basically, Freestyle knows how to “keep working hard, despite the new responsibilities and even the distractions.” More originals are in the works and churning them out as quickly as they can online and hoping for the best all the time. At present, Freestyle regularly performs at 19 East, 12 Monkeys, Eton Centris Walk, Historia Boutique Bar and Restaurant, and Chaos in City of Dreams. Tomorrow, the band will regale guests at the town ﬁesta in Sta. Cruz, Lubao in Pampanga. On May 20, they will be featured at the Azul Bar at Aquatico in Laiya, Batangas and on May 27, they will be one of the performers in a fundraising concert at UST.

MAINE

MENDOZA

is working on her first book

JAKE EJERCITO, LAUREN REID at 2017 Zalora Style Awards ZALORA, Asia’s top online fashion destination, is proud to celebrate ﬁve years of changing the way consumers shop for fashion in the region. In March, several anniversary activations were rolled out across Asia – in Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Indonesia and the Philippines. This year, Zalora has partnered with local tastemakers and talented creatives to launch a campaign, titled #ZALORAICONS, to commemorate this signiﬁcant milestone. The Zalora Style Awards winners were led by celebrity Jake Ejercito for Male Style Star of the Year and TV personality

Lauren Reid for Female Style Star of the Year. Both Jake and Lauren are regarded as the top fashionistas of their generation. Other winners included fashion designer Vania Romoff for Fashion Designer of the Year, Team Rain x Em for Stylist of the Year and beauty artist Mickey See for Makeup Artist of the Year. “Our annual Zalora Style Awards does not only set the caliber for our fashion friends to hone their craft, but also builds an esteemed standard of recognition that honors fashion icons who have helped shape the fashion industry to what it is today,” said Paulo Campos, co-founder and CEO, Zalora Philippines.

Jake Ejercito receives his plaque as Male Style Star of the Year

Launched in 2016, Zalora Style Awards was initiated to honor and recognize local trendsetters, at the same time giving them a platform to highlight their achievements and to encourage the local community to continue pursuing their dreams in the fashion industry. Through events like this, Zalora hopes to stimulate and support the next generation of fashion game-changers. Follow Zalora’s ﬁfth anniversary celebrations at #ZALORAICONS and #ZALORAStyleAwards. For more information visit https://www.zalora. com.ph/zalora-anniversary-women and https://www.zalora.com.ph/zaloraanniversary-men.

Lauren Reid is this year’s awardee for Female Style Star

No ghostwriter for Maine Mendoza

THIS year is turning out to be a very productive and fulfilling year for Maine Mendoza. Fresh from her highly praised performance in Eat Bulaga’s Lenten Special, the 22-year-old star is slated to add another feather in her cap: her very own book. Maine confirmed in a blog post that she is currently working on her first book. She did not reveal the release date for the book, but it is expected come out this year under Summit Books, the same company that published Alden Richards’ book In My Own Words. She is writing the book during her free time, in between her showbiz commitments. The actress-TV host even worked on her book during her recent oneweek stay in the United States. “I am currently working on my book. Another reason why I find it really hard to make time for myself and other things because I have weekly deadlines for the book! Actually kaya dala ko itong laptop ko kasi magsusulat pa din ako sa Amerika,” she said. How is her book going to be different from the numerous showbiz-themed publications that are currently on bookshelves? “I’m writing it. Ito kasi, talagang ako ang nagsusulat. Walang ghostwriter. Ako ngayon, pinaghahandaan ko na yung lahat ng isusulat ko.” The book will be in the vein of her personal blog, The Pessimistic Optimist Bella, which she has been maintaining for over five years now, before she even entered showbiz. Like her blog entries, the content of her book will be very personal. “It’s more about my personal life — my personal experiences, my

feelings. It’s not just about Yaya Dub or the characters I have played in the movies or TV. It’s really about Maine Mendoza,” she said. She is also ready to face the criticism that may come as she embarks in this new endeavor. “Ako kasi, sobrang pessimistic akong tao. Kaya nasanay na rin ako. I really take time to visit their accounts para basahin yung sinasabi nila sa akin. I check pero hindi ako nagrerespond sa kanila. Tinitignan ko lang yung mga sinasabi nila sa akin. Weird but it doesn’t affect me that much; it actually feeds me. In a way, feeling ko nagiging motivation ko rin yung bashers,” she said. More than anything, however, Maine is excited to share to her fans her thoughts and feelings via her book. Apart from the book, Maine is busy with Eat Bulaga and the GMA primetime soap opera Destined To Be Yours. The soap opera star said she is still adjusting to acting life but is nonetheless doing her best for her fans and supporters. “Nahirapan ako. Unang-una, kasi hindi naman ako sanay sa pag-arte. Bigla na lang akong napasok sa ganito. From hosting bigla akong nag-shift sa acting which, I can say, is one of my biggest accomplishments,” shared Maine. “Hindi ako nakapag-take ng enough workshops before the start of the show. Pero ako, ginagawa ko naman yung best ko rin, lalo na sa Destined to Be Yours. Ayoko naman din na i-let down yung mga taong sumusuporta at nagmamahal sa akin.”