Manila Standard - 2017 August 19 - Saturday

TERROR IN SPAIN: 13 DEAD, 4 ‘PINOYS’ HURT

By John Paolo Bencito and Sara Susanne Fabunan THE Philippines has joined the international community in condemning the terrorist attack in Barcelona on Thursday which left at least 13 people dead and injured more than 100 others.

“Our hearts and prayers go out to the families and loved ones of the innocent victims who perished and those who got injured,” Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said in a statement.

My boy was not into drugs —Kian’s pa

By Jun David THE father of the 17-year-old Grade 11 student killed in a police operation in Caloocan said Friday that his son was not involved in drugs, and that he was the victim of official abuse and misconduct.

Saldy delos Santos, father of victim Kian Lloyd, accused the police of unjustly killing his son after footage from the barangay CCTV showed two men, not in uniform, dragging the teenager to where he was found dead.

In a later scene, the boy was seen slumped on the ground, face down. In his left hand was a gun—but Kian Loyd was righthanded, Delos Santos said.

The boy also had a bullet wound on the back of his leg.

The CCTV footage and neighbors belied police claims that the boy fired at them first. Next page

He added: “We are one with the peaceloving people of the international community in condemning this latest attack in Spain.

At the same time, Malacanang advised Filipinos in Barcelona to remain vigilant and mindful of their surroundings, after four Irish citizens of Filipino descent were among those reportedly injured after a van plowed through pedestrians in Barcelona’s Las Ramblas tourist destination.

Foreign Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano Next page

VOL. XXXI • NO. 186 • 4 SECTIONS 20 PAGES • P18 • SATURDAY, AUGUST 19, 2017 • www.manilastandard.net • editorial@thestandard.com.ph

Drug killings spark outrage

Faeldon part of action plan —Palace

By John Paolo Bencito and Rey E. Requejo DESPITE mounting calls for his resignation over his failure to stop the entry of a shipment of shabu worth P6.4 billion, Customs Commissioner Nicanor Faeldon is staying in his post as part of President Rodrigo Duterte’s plan for the corruption-ridden agency, Malacañang said Friday.

“So far as we can see, he has retained Faeldon,” said Presidential Spokesman Ernesto Abella.

“So I suppose that’s part of his concrete action.”

Abella said the President needs men of integrity to do their job.

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IRREGULAR OPERATION. Caloocan police chief Sr. Supt. Chito Bersaluna gave instructions Friday to the Police Community Precinct 7 to restrict the area where 17-year-old Grade 11 student Kian Loyd delos Santos was killed during the anti-drug operation Oplan Galugad in Caloocan City. Police statements that he was chased and drew a gun are disputed by the victims’ kin. Andrew Rabulan

By Maricel V. Cruz, Macon Ramos-Araneta, John Paolo Bencito and Rio N. Araja

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AWMAKERS condemned the mass killing of drug suspects from poor neighborhoods in Bulacan, Manila and Caloocan, as the casualty count in four days of anti-drug operations hit 80 dead—including a 17-year-old Grade 11 student.

“We condemn this act of madness... If the accused comes from [the] poor...the result is consistently gruesome,” said Anakpawis Rep. Ariel Casilao, who likened the killings to those done under martial law.

Magdalo Party-list Rep. Gary Alejano expressed concern that the killings, especially of drugrelated suspects, has become a national policy.

“I call on the Filipino people to denounce this inhumane policy of killing as much as we denounce illegal drugs and corruption in government,” Alejano, a staunch critic of the Duterte administration, said.

Alejano said due process must be observed at all times.

“Let us not allow ourselves to get accustomed to and grow numb to the killings that are happening in our country,” he said in Filipino.

Casilao, a member of the leftist Makabayan bloc, said the P900million budget for Oplan Double Barrel Reloaded would result in even more deaths.

“The war on drugs is not even a war, as victims are helpless, like the case of the Grade 11 student killed in Caloocan,” he said. “We demand justice for him and all the victims, and call on various sectors to unite as this exhibition of atrocity should have no place in a supposedly democratic and free society.”

In Caloocan, 17-year-old student Kian Loyd delos Santos was killed by police who said he fired on them. Delos Santos’ father, however, said neither he nor his son were involved in drugs, and CCTV footage showed policemen dragging the boy to the place Next page

Muslim clerics declare war on IS, Maute

By John Paolo Bencito MUSLIM clerics in Lanao del Sur have issued a “fatwa” or Islamic ruling condemning the current rebellion in their Marawi City led by the ISIS-inspired extremist groups, the Palace said Friday.

3 early medals for PH

SEIZED FIREARMS. President Rodrigo Duterte inspects the confiscated and surrendered loose firarms during his visit the other day in Ozamiz City. With the President are PNP chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa and Ozamiz City director Chief Insp. Jovie Espenido. Malacañang Photo

Bautista’s wife obtains govt protection THE Justice Department has extended protection to Patricia Bautista, the estranged wife of Commission on Elections Chairman Andres Bautista who has accused him of amassing P1 billion in ill-gotten wealth, an official said Friday.

Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II made the disclosure after meeting with Ms. Bautista, who had asked to be admitted to the government’s Witness Protection Program.

“The provisional admission of Ms. Bautista into the WPP was twitter.com/ MlaStandard

made in consideration of her safety and security as a potential witness,” Aguirre told reporters.

He said the protection given to Ms. Bautista was aside from the security being provided to her by the National Bureau of Investigation and the Philippine National Police. Next page

facebook.com/ ManilaStandardPH

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of war against the ISIS-inspired Maute terror group of all 41 mayors in Lanao del Sur through a manifesto signed on Aug. 12,” Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella told Palace news briefing.

“The 40 towns and one city of Next page

Bird flu spreads to N Ecija

By Anna Leah E. Gonzales TWO more cases of avian influenza had been confirmed in Nueva Ecija, Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel Piñol said Friday.

“Two new cases of Avian Influenza have been confirmed by

THE Palace on Friday wished the athletes participating in the 29th Southeast Asian Games in Kuala Lumpur the best of luck.

“We wish our athletes good luck,” Presidential Spokesman Ernesto Abella said.

He also praised the athletes who had won the initial medals for the country.

“They have begun bringing honor to the country with three medals as of yesterday: a silver and two bronze medals,” Abella said.

“We congratulate the Philippine team for Sepak Takraw for winning the first silver medal

manilastandard.net

On the 88th day of the siege in Marawi City, the military also announced that the battle ground had been reduced to “half a kilometer grid square” as the Mindanao State University was scheduled to resume its classes on Aug. 22.

“This supports the declaration

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the Bureau of Animal Industry in Jaen and San Isidro towns in Nueva Ecija,” Piñol said.

“The confirmation was made after a series of laboratory tests on the specimens gathered from quails and layer chickens were conducted by the Animal Diseases Detection Laboratory.” Next page

SOOTHING SWIM. Hundreds of ducks for sale take the plunge at

Laguna de Bay at the Taguig City shoreline Friday, with their raisers concerned with the reported avian influenza which has affected a town in Pampanga. Norman Cruz

Missed your copy of Manila Standard? Call or text our Circulation Hotline at 0917-8848655 or email: circ@manilastandardtoday.com

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SATURDAY, AUGUST 19, 2017 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Sino ships in WPS, AMT insists

By John Paolo Bencito

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INE Chinese vessels appeared to be “actively fishing” near the Pag-asa Island or Thitu Island in the disputed West Philippine Sea waters, a Washington-based think tank said Thursday (Friday in Manila).

In its latest report, the Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative of the Center for Strategic and International Studies, a 55-year-old independent think tank based in the US, said “there were nine Chinese fishing ships and two naval/law

enforcement vessels visible” near Pag-asa Island on Aug. 13, “with others possibly under cloud cover.”

“It is impossible to know if any of those ships might be affiliated with the maritime militia, but at least two appear to be actively fishing (loca-

Terror...

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ardly act of terrorism.”

In Paris, a Mass is to be held in Notre Dame cathedral on Sunday evening dedicated to the victims, the archdiocese of the French capital announced.

“I would like to assure you of my prayers for the victims and the Catholic community of Barcelona and the Catalans and all of Spain,” wrote archbishop, Cardinal Andre VingtTrois in a message to his counterpart in Barcelona, Cardinal Juan Jose Omella.

Britain British Prime Minister Theresa May tweeted: “My thoughts are with the victims of today’s terrible attack in Barcelona ... and the emergency services responding to this ongoing incident. The UK stands with Spain against terror.”

London Mayor Sadiq Khan called the attack “barbaric,” adding: “London stands with Barcelona against the evil of terrorism.”

The Netherlands It was a “cowardly attack against innocent people,” Prime Minister Mark Rutte said in a statement on his Facebook page, calling it a “black day at a place where many people around the world gathered.”

Turkey Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said Turkey strongly condemned the “heinous terrorist attack.”

The Vatican Pope Francis’s spokesman said in a statement: “The Pope prays for the victims of this attack and wishes to express his closeness to all the Spanish people, especially the wounded and families of the victims.”

Portugal Footballer Cristiano Ronaldo, a star with Spanish premier club Real Madrid, said he was “dismayed” by the attack and voiced “support and solidarity with the families and friends of the victims”.

China Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang sent a letter of condolences to the King of Spain and the Spanish prime minister.

“China firmly opposes all forms of terrorism, supports efforts to combat terrorism and supports peace and stability, and would like to cooperate with Spain to enhance counter-terrorism operations,” the president said.

Hungary Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said: “This terrible attack reinforces our conviction that the most important task in the coming period will be the restoration of security for Europe and European people.”

Austria Austrian President Alexander van der Bellen said: “Europe and the whole world are united against terrorism.”

Australia Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said: “The Australian people condemn the terrorist attack, the Islamist terrorist attack in Barcelona overnight.”

“Our love, our prayers are with the victims and their families... we stand in absolute, resolute solidarity with the people of Spain in the fight against Islamist terrorism,” he told reporters.

New Zealand New Zealand Prime Minister Bill English tweeted: “My thoughts are with the families of those killed following the horrendous attack in Barcelona.”

said in a statement” “The Philippines condemns in the strongest terms this disturbing act of terror perpetrated by extremists against innocent men, women and children in Barcelona.”

“We stand in solidarity with the people of Catalonia and all of Spain and the rest of the world as we fight this common scourge,” Cayetano added.

As Spanish police on Friday hunted for the driver who rammed a van into pedestrians on an avenue crowded with tourists in Barcelona, other world leaders have condemned the attack, expressing outrage and solidarity with the victims.

Spain The Spanish royal family issued an unusually strongly-worded statement: “They are assassins, criminals who won’t terrorize us. All of Spain is Barcelona.”

FC Barcelona said it was “deeply saddened” by the tragedy and the team’s talismanic striker Lionel Messi said separately that people must reject “any act of violence.”

“There are many more of us who want to live in a world in peace, without hate and where respect and tolerance are the basis of coexistence,” he added.

United States President Donald Trump tweeted: “The United States condemns the terror attack in Barcelona, Spain, and will do whatever is necessary to help.

Be tough & strong, we love you!”

Secretary of State Rex Tillerson added: “Terrorists around the world should know—the United States and our allies are resolved to find you and bring you to justice.”

Germany In a statement, the office of German Chancellor Angela Merkel said they were thinking of the victims of the “revolting attack” with “profound sadness.”

Russia President Vladimir Putin called for the world to unite in an “uncompromising battle against the forces of terror”.

“We decisively condemn this cruel and cynical crime against civilians,” Putin wrote in a telegram of condolences to Spanish King Felipe VI. United Nations A spokesman said UN SecretaryGeneral Antonio Guterres “condemns today’s terrorist attack on Barcelona” and “hopes that those responsible for this heinous violence will be swiftly brought to justice.”

European Union European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said: “I send my deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims, as well as to Prime Minister Rajoy and the people of Spain. My thoughts are with the people of Barcelona.”

Flags were flying at half mast in front of the EU Commission headquarters in Brussels on Friday, where a minute’s silence was also to be held at midday to remember the victims of the attack.

France President Emmanuel Macron voiced “France’s solidarity” with Spanish citizens following what he called “a tragic attack.”

Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo said: “Parisians are at your side. Barcelona and Paris are cities that share love and tolerance. Our values are much stronger than this heinous and cow-

Muslim...

From A1 the province shall strengthen the civilian security plan of barangays mobilizing religious leaders with the said declaration,” he added.

Military spokesperson Brig.

Gen. Restituto Padilla Jr. said the fatwas issued by the MILF and the ARMM Grand Mufti and the Darul Ifta were “very critical ingredients in our program to fight and prevent the spread of violent extremism and radicalism.”

Uamilodin Sharif, deputy mufti of the provincial Darul Ifta of Lanao, on Tuesday said the main objective of the conference was for the Ulama across the country to have a fatwa against terrorism amid the ongoing armed conflict in Marawi City.

“Terrorism is one of the major problems the country is facing. Yes, it is true that there are already two existing fatwas issued by the regional Darul Ifta of ARMM and from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. Our purpose here is to bring to the national level the scope of the Fatwa. That’s why we are convening a national conference on this,” he said.

Faeldon...

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“While Mr. Faeldon has been concerned, naturally, that he does not embarrass the President, the President is also quite aware, based on his words, that the man can be trusted. And for the President, that is paramount,” Abella said. “While you can get people who are skilled, ...if [they are] lacking integrity, then that will be dangerous.”

On Thursday, Duterte said he had rejected Faeldon’s appeal to be relieved as head of the Bureau of

Bird...

tions 6 and 8), with their nets visibly in the water,” the AMTI said.

The think tank said Beijing’s move to “fish” within disputed waters “is no doubt that doing so is highly provocative and runs counter to the narrative of a stable mutuallybeneficial new status quo that Beijing has sought to project.”

“The fact that law enforcement and naval vessels accompanied the fishermen makes it clear that this was not done without Chinese authorities being aware. At best, they permitted their operation. At worst, they escorted and guarded them,” the AMTI said.

“The number and rapid coordina-

tion of naval and coast guard ships suggests that this was purposely organized in advance and was not just an ad hoc response by government vessels that happened to be in the area,” it added.

The images shown appear to corroborate claims by Magdalo Partylist Rep. Gary Alejano, who called out the government to file a diplomatic protest over what he called “extraordinary activities” of five Chinese vessels earlier spotted near Pag-asa Island.

There also appears to be a Philippine fishing boat docked at the nearest of the unoccupied sandbars, possibly sent out from Pag-asa Island

to investigate Chinese presence, the think tank said.

Foreign Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano earlier said the issue on the presence of Chinese ships in the West Philippine Sea “does not mean anything,” even as he said Filipinos must learn to develop trust in China in the same manner that it trusted the United States, a longtime ally.

But contrary to Cayetano’s stance downplaying such reports, military spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said a diplomatic protest should be filed against Beijing if the presence of Chinese ships in Pag-asa Island would be proven.

where he was found dead.

Senator Panfilo Lacson, an administration ally and a former chief of police, said 57 killings in two days of suspects who allegedly shot back at lawmen seemed “contrived.”

“Much as I do not want to preempt the investigations being conducted

by PNP IAS and the DoJ, I want to remind them to be very fair and objective in conducting their probe to save whatever credibility is left in them,” Lacson said.

Senator Juan Edgardo Angara underscored the need for the Senate to investigate the spate of killings in Duterte’s renewed war on drugs.

“The body count is reaching alarming levels,” said Angara, referring to the 32 killed in Bulacan and 25 in Manila.

“We need speedy justice machines, and ensure that we are strengthening our institutions like the courts, the police, the prosecutors. We need our people to believe in the justice system,” said Angara.

An ally of President Duterte, Angara said vigilante justice is not a systemic and long-term solution. He called it “shocking and worrisome.”

Senator Richard Gordon, chairman of the Senate Justice committee, said his panel would investigate the killing of 17-year-old Delos Santos.

“We will investigate the killing of the 17-year-old; there’s evidence. We must be fair,” said Gordon.

He said the government could not fight the drug menace by just killing.

“You must go to the source,” he said.

Instead of killing street pushers, they should be arrested and made to give up their suppliers, Gordon said.

He said it was disconcerting that there are no witnesses who come out (in the killings) because probably they know that somehow the police are involved.

“There’s overkill in the drug war.

Everything must be done in balance,” said Gordon, who also said he would advise the President, as a friend, to restrain himself.

“You think there’s a resurgence of killings because of the President’s pronouncements,” Gordon said.

But even in war, there are rules, he said.

Senator Paolo Benigno Aquino IV said he would file a resolution to investigate the death of Delos Santos.

While he supports the government’s campaign against illegal drugs, Aquino said the government should rethink its strategy, saying the poor and helpless are casualties in this war while those involved in big drug cases are accorded due process.

In recent drug operations, 74 suspects were killed in Manila, Bulacan and in the Camanava (C a lo o c a n - M a l a b o n - Navot a s Valenzuela) area.

Liberal Party president Senator Francis Pangilinan said the indiscriminate killing was not the solution to this problem, and pointed out that P6.4 billion worth of shabu had recently slipped past Customs.

“This is not justifiable. The everyday killings of the poor is not the solution,” said Pangilinan.

He added that drug addiction should be treated as a health issue related to poverty, and not just a police problem.

“Thirty-two were killed in Bulacan

in just one day, 25 were killed in Manila, also in a day. One of those killed was Kian Loyd delos Santos, 17 years old, which was seen on a barangay CCTV while being dragged by two men going to the place where he was found dead,” said Pangilinan.

He said anybody could be dragged off by the police so they could reach their “quota” and get a monetary reward.

Senator JV Ejercito said he was worried that rogue police would abuse the war on drugs for their own purposes, knowing that the President has vowed to protect them.

He said one living proof of this abuse was police inspector Jovie Espenido, who showed “sheer arrogance” by warning suspected narco politicians that they will be next, after the Mayor Reynaldo Parojinog and members of his family were killed in a police raid in Ozamiz City.

Senator Antonio Trillanes IV described Duterte as a monster who craves killings and tries to justify them through lies, deception and twisted logic.

“I fervently pray for the day that Filipinos would finally wake up and realize it,” said Trillanes, who said Duterte had lied and deceived the public about how soon he could rid the country of illegal drugs.

But administration senators defended the President, saying that the recent smuggling of shabu from China indicated how entrenched the illegal drug trade had become.

Senate Majority Leader Vicente Sotto III admitted that a drug-free Philippines is no longer possible, given the extent to which drug operations have grown.

“What we can try to achieve is drug-resistant Philippines,” he said.

Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon said he was disappointed with the deliberate attempt of the Department of Justice to be “less than transparent” on the number of extrajudicial killings under the Duterte administration’s bloody war against illegal drugs as he moved to defer the approval of its proposed budget for 2018.

“From the testimony, it is clear that over 4,000 have been killed in the drug operations and that was admitted by the secretary of Justice,” said Drilon.

Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II said out of the more than 4,000 killings—3,050 legitimate police operations and over 1,000 vigilante killings, exactly 37 were being investigated by the National Bureau of Investigation, out of which three were terminated and prosecution was recommended.

Based on the data of the Philippine National Police, Aguirre said “over a thousand” are victims of vigilante killings.

Out of the total estimated number of 4,000, he said the NBI is only handling 37 cases, seven of which happened in the National Capital Region, while the 30 others were from other regions.

At the Senate hearing, Aquino also questioned Aguirre about the resurgence of illegal drugs inside the National Bilibid Prison.

At the hearing, Bureau of Corrections officials said highprofile inmates involved in the illegal drug trade were allowed to transact business with their cohorts outside the prison as part of a sting operation.

But Aguirre questioned the

wisdom of the operations, saying they may have caused the resurgence of the drug trade in the NBP. The Palace on Friday defended the bloody campaign, saying the war on drugs was “not a reckless exercies of blood letting.”

“Again and again, we hear people say that it’s safer. They feel comfortable and in fact they appreciate that the Philippines is being made safe again,” Presidential Spokesman Ernesto Abella told reporters in a Palace news briefing.

While killings continue to take place, Abella said that the ongoing “shock and awe” operations being conducted seeks “is to degrade the community-based retail distribution network that will always fuel the drug trade, whoever is on top.”

“The norm is to address criminality.

And this is simply a method, a particular way of doing things. But that’s not the endgame,” he said.

“The endgame is to make sure that corruption is addressed, criminality goes down, and that the demand for drugs is also reduced if not completely eradicated,” he added.

Simultaneous anti-drug operations in Bulacan, Manila and Camanava areas resulted in 74 deaths in the escalation of the bloody drug war in the past three days, after the President declared the country a “narco state.”

On Thursday, the President said he would not just pardon police officers who killed drug offenders during the anti-narcotics campaign, but also promote them.

The police, however, maintained that they killed only in self-defense.

The Palace played down the killing of the Grade 11 student Delos Santos as “an isolated case.”

“That incident, happily, I think is isolated,” Abella said.

When he came under fire for using the adverb happily, the Palace issued a statement saying he said “haply” which means by chance or by accident.

Abella also said while people worry about the deaths of drug suspects, they do not consider the killing of the innocent by criminals on drugs.

“I think it’s also quite alarming the fact that … when we did not face these things, that there was… violence all over the land. I mean, old women being raped, babies being raped,” Duterte’s spokesman said.

“I mean, it’s just about time that those who are in government and those who are in a position to do something about it should be able to address these matters and end these matters forcefully,” he added.

The Commission on Human Rights, meanwhile, said there were 12,000 actual victims of extrajudicial killings under the Duterte administration.

In a press briefing, CHR Chairman Chito Gascon said the number was bigger than what the Philippine National Police reported.

“The picture is much larger. We get anecdotal reports that there were 12,000 deaths as of May 31,” he told reporters. “The actual number is certainly higher than what the government suggests.”

He vowed to fight the President’s bloody war on drugs.

The CHR has been documenting at least 600 cases of summary executions involving 800 victims, he said.

“We need to document the 800.

That is not enough, but we have to start,” he said.

Customs thrice. He also said Faeldon is here to stay because he wasn’t the type of person who could be corrupt.

At the same time, Abella slammed “very cynical” attacks on Duterte’s war on drugs after an opposition lawmaker condemned the thousands of deaths of poor drug suspects while illegal drugs slipped past the Bureau of Customs.

“I think that’s being very cynical, you know. That’s a different issue,” Abella said. “These are two separate issues and I believe that’s such a cynical way of looking at things.”

Senator Francis Pangilinan

on Friday slammed the Duterte administration’s war on drugs following the killing of 57 drug suspects in anti-drug operations in Bulacan and Manila this week.

The Senate is conducting an investigation into the P6.4-billion shipment of shabu seized by the BOC in May, days after it slipped through the agency’s green lane.

Also on Friday, Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II hit Senator Antonio Trillanes IV, who accused the Justice Department of setting the state to absolve a friend of presidential son Paolo Duterte in the shabu smuggling

scandal.

“Amusing. I had a good laugh when I read it. We could all use the comic relief he provided,” Aguirre said in a statement.

“Senator Trillanes is already writing the ending of a story that has yet to start. While it is true that I said that there is a possibility for Mr. Dong to be a state witness, I also said that it will all depend on the determination of Mr. Dong not appearing to be the most guilty. Such a fact has yet to be established. The statement of Senator Trillanes at this point is [so] premature that it is laughable,” he added.

Drug...

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From A1 In Cabanatuan City, Gov. Cherry Umali ordered an investigation of the bird flu virus that had reached Jaen and San Isidro towns following information from the Department of Agriculture.

Umali ordered Provincial Veterinary Officer Ernesto Romero Jr. to verify the report.

Piñol said that, unlike in the case of San Luis, Pampanga, the cases in Nueva Ecija were immediately reported.

“Quarantine teams were immediately

established even before the laboratory tests confirmed the presence of the virus,” he said.

“The farm in Jaen raised quails that were wiped out while the farm in Jaen is a layer poultry facility of about 20,000 heads. Culling operations are ongoing for the other fowls.”

The government had earlier put up one-kilometer quarantine zone and sevenkilometer control zone for surveillance. It also established 12 quarantine checkpoints to check incoming and outgoing vehicles moving livestock and poultry and to limit animal movements within the area.

With Ferdie G. Domingo

Bautista’s...

From A1 He said Ms. Bautista sought protection due to the threats to her life.

“Her safety and security is her utmost concern, Aguirre said. But he said he had no details yet on the kind of threats Ms. Bautista had been receiving.

Ms. Bautista declined to make a statement after

meeting with Aguirre.

She also went to the NBI to meet with the team tasked by Aguirre to investigate Andres Bautista’s alleged hidden wealth.

Aguirre said Ms. Bautista would be required to execute an affidavit to determine if she was qualified to be fully accepted to the government—Witness Protection Program.

Rey E. Requejo

Draft BBL sent to House

PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte has submitted the draft Bangsamoro Basic Law before Congress without any changes to the version crafted by the Bangsamoro Transition Commission, the Palace said Friday.

“As far as we know, the same version given by the working committee [of the BTC] is the same one given by the President,” Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said in a chance interview.

In an Aug. 14 transmittal letter by the Presidential Legislative Liaison Office to Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III, Usecretary Ryan Estevez said they were placing the future of the draft bill to Congress, which would decide on the matter along with the bill to be crafted by the Nur Misuari-led Moro National Liberation Front.

“We trust in the collective wisdom of Congress should they deem proper to refine the draft further in the course of the regular legislative mill to reflect the genuine aspirations of the Filipino people,” Estevez said.

The Moro Islamic Liberation Front-led Bangsamoro Transition Commission last July 17 submitted to Duterte its proposals for a draft Bangsamoro Enabling Law, which is a “20 to 30 percent improvement and revision” of the previous bill which failed to pass in the 16th Congress, MILF Implementing Panel chairman Mohaguer Iqbal said.

Giving important highlights of the draft BBL, Iqbal said the BTC had taken into account the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro inked between the Aquino administration and the MILF in March 2014 and the 1996 Final Peace Agreement between the Ramos administration and the Moro National Liberation Front. John Paolo Bencito

My boy...

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Delos Santos sought justice for his son. His mother, who worked in the Middle East, was said to have flown back Thursday night.

The precinct commander and three other policemen were relieved over the incident.

Caloocan City police commander Senior Supt. Chito Bersaluna said in a radio interview that the area— barangay 160—where the boy’s family lives, had reports of drug activity.

He ordered a thorough investigation of the incident and said he would not tolerate any misdeeds by erring police.

Senator Francis Escudero said the CCTV footage and eyewitness accounts clearly show that the boy was murdered. He said the police officers involved are not only abusive, they are killers and criminals.

He said he hoped President Rodrigo Duterte and PNP chief Ronald dela Rosa would act swiftly, “because the poor boy was not even an addict, much less a pusher.”

Senator Paolo Benigno Aquino IV, in a statement, said that he plans to file a resolution to look into Delos Santos’ death.

“We can see from the footage that he [Delos Santos] never pulled out a gun,” Aquino said.

“I condemn the killing of 17-yearold Kian Lloyd delos Santos in the anti-drug operations conducted by the police in Caloocan City,” Senator Joseph Victor Ejercito said, noting that the killing was “very, very disturbing.”

Ejercito pointed out that the CCTV footage clearly showed that the teenager was killed.

“The CCTV footage gives a clear picture that Kian delos Santos was killed. Those policemen should be charged. It makes me angry just watching it,” Ejercito said.

With PNA

Kuala...

From A1 from this season’s Southeast Asian Games. We also extend our congratulations to our archers for the two bronze medals.”

The 29th edition of the biennial games, which are scheduled from Aug. 19 to 30, has 404 events in 38 featured sports.

Abella said the 30th edition of the Southeast Asian Games to be hosted by the Philippines in 2019 would not go unfunded, but officials had yet to identify the possible funding sources for the event.

“It will not be an unfunded project,” Abella told reporters quoting Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno.

“I don’t know how he’s gonna do it, but I believe that if we approved it, I’m assuming there will be funds for that.”

He asked all concerned agencies “to give their full support and cooperation in preparing the country’s hosting of the biennial event.

“Together, let us show the world our Filipino bayanihan spirit,” Abella said. John Paolo Bencito

NEWS

SATURDAY, AUGUST 19, 2017

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Minamahal naming Pangulong Rodrigo Roa Duterte Dahil sa writ of preliminary injunction na inisyu ng Regional Trial Court, Branch 143, Makati City laban sa Nationwide Online Lottery System (NOLS) ng Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO):

NANGANGANIB ANG PABORITONG LARONG LOTTO NG SAMBAYANANG PILIPINO! Dahil dito, • Mapipilitan ang PCSO na pagtiyagaang gamitin ang lumang lottery system ng Philippine Gaming Management Corporation (PGMC) na napaglipasan na ng panahon at malamang papalya; at • Madiskaril ang epektibong takbo ng LOTTO at kapag mangyari ito, tiyak na bulilyaso ang paglikom ng pondo para sa tulong medikal ng ahensiya para sa mga kapus-palad nating kababayan.

Ang injunction na inilabas noong Agosto 3, 2017 ni Presiding Judge Maximo M. de Leon ay nag-uutos na itigil ang public bidding ng NOLS para sa Luzon kung saan kinatigan ng korte ang reklamo ng PGMC, isang subsidiary company ng Berjaya-Malaysia.

Ang posisyon ng PCSO ay kagyat ang pangangailangan ng bidding para makapili ng panibagong provider ng online lottery system.

Kada taon, umaabot sa P29-bilyon ang kita mula sa LOTTO na iniaambag ng PCSO sa gobyerno upang mapondohan ng huli ang programa nitong tulong medikal para sa mahihirap nating mamamayan na higit na nangangailangan.

Sa Individual Medical Assistance Program (IMAP) pa lamang napakalaking benepisyo ang natatanggap ng mamamayan mula sa kita ng Lotto at iba pang palaro:

IMAP

(Enero hanggang Hulyo 2017)

Alokasyon: P3,904,907,424.65 Nakinabang na mamamayan: 195,756

Napag-alaman ng inyong mga bagong talagang miyembro ng Board of Directors ng PCSO na walang naganap ni isang public bidding simula noong 1995 o mahigit 20 taon na ang nakakaraan para sa “equipment lease agreement” na hawak ngayon ng PGMC para sa Luzon.

Kabahagi ng reporma ng PCSO sa ilalim ng gobyernong Duterte, naninindigan ang Board ng PCSO na nararapat lamang na idaan sa public bidding ang NOLS alinsunod sa Republic Act No. 9184 (Government Procurement Reform Act).

Para sa kaalaman ng mamamayang Pilipino, una, ang NOLS ay naglalayong maging state-of-the-art bilang napapanahong pag-angkop sa lumalawak pang partisipasyon ng mamamayan sa mga palaro ng PCSO. Pangalawa, mapapaso na ang kontrata ng PGMC sa Agosto 21, 2018.

At pangatlo, ang ginagawang public bidding ay alinsunod sa batas, taliwas sa ginawa ng mga nakaraang administrasyon na ni-renew lamang ang kontrata sa lottery system ng PGMC. Noong Mayo 25, 2017, isinumite ng PCSO ang bid document sa inyong tanggapan. Sinundan ito ng paglathala ng “Invitation to Bid” ng NOLS noong Hunyo 9, 2017. Umabot sa 17 na kompanyang lokal at banyaga ang bumili ng bid document, kasama na ang PGMC. Pero noong Hulyo 11, tumakbo ang PGMC sa korte para humingi ng Temporary Restraining Order (TRO).

Dahil walang tiyak na araw kung kailan mawawalang bisa ang injunction sa public bidding ng NOLS, labis na nababahala ang mga manlalaro at umaasa sa tulong ng PCSO dahil sa negatibong epekto ng kasong isinampa ng PGMC.

Kung walang LOTTO, liliit ang kita para sa kawanggawa ng PCSO. Please visit us at www.pcso.gov.ph Follow us on Facebook: Pcso Ogm PresserLink Like, follow & share http://www.facebook.com/mandirigma83

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Opinion

SATURDAY, AUGUST 19, 2017

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

EDITORIAL

Adelle Chua, Editor

Putting up a fight

O

UTRAGE. There is only outrage.

The case for launching a campaign against drugs has long been made. We know the drug menace is upon us. We recognize the harm it does to its users and fear what it can do to the next generation. We also see the evil it breeds among those who profit from its nefarious trade.

President Rodrigo Duterte, who has been in office for a little more than a year, has acknowledged the problem is bigger and more difficult to extinguish than he had previously thought.

First he said he could wipe out drugs between three and six months. And then he asked for another half a year.

Now—we have lost track of what the

new deadline is.

It took the death of a Korean businessman in February for the Philippine National Police to suspend the controversial operations, and not because the police force realized the folly of its excesses. It was just because it was a foreigner who was killed—an embarrassment at a time when we were wooing foreigners to visit the country or invest here.

The campaign is back—and boy, don’t we feel it. Don’t we deplore the absence of care or reason in its execution.

At least 57 drug suspects were killed over the past several days in separate operations across Manila and neighboring Bulacan province. The killings were supposedly part of a shock-andawe approach against drug traffickers.

Horrors, the President took delight in the killings. “Good,” he said, re-

ferring to the 32 killed earlier in the week. “If we could kill another 32 every day, then maybe we can reduce what ails this country.”

The PNP spokesman, however, said the cops only carried out the killings in self-defense. The usual line is that the police only take action when the drug suspects resist arrest and put up a fight.

Easy to say when your president promises protection to anybody charged with killing drug suspects, and when questions by human rights groups are met with curses.

Going viral on the Internet is the story of an 11th-grade boy, Kian Loyd delos Santos, who was one of those killed in Caloocan this week. The 17-year-old boy was supposedly only closing up the family store when he was picked up by cops and later on killed.

Palace Spokesman Ernesto Abella said Delos Santos’ case, happily, was isolated. His staff later on insisted the word was “haply.”

In expressing our outrage over the President’s cavalier disregard for the lives of the suspects, we also wonder what is being done with prominent personalities accused of involvement in drug use or drug trade. This fortunate lot can invoke due process and demand evidence from these accusers. They are lucky they sport prominent names and do not live in hovels in Caloocan or Bulacan.

One life unjustly lost is one life too many. We reject the attempt to desensitize the public to the killings and to say this is for the greater good. What good is asking, first thing in the morning, how many corpses are out on the streets?

It’s hard to ignore Trump, but we have to try

By Stephen L. Carter

whenever he addresses his voters, especially when the television cameras are around.

For Baguilat’s information, the UP may not have the amenities of a world-class resort or tourist destination, but to its grateful alumni who put more importance to substance over form, the university and its facilities are always first class.

Evidently, the less the LP participates in the decisionmaking processes of the government, the better it is for the public interest.

History reveals that when the LP seized political power in the Philippines for the first time in 1946, the party, then headed by President Manuel Roxas (grandfather of Mar Roxas), quickly mortgaged the political and economic future of the Philippines by allowing parity rights in favor of Americans. Under that onerous arrangement, Americans in the Philippines enjoyed

THINK about this: We now live in a country where nobody would want the president to speak at the memorial service for a victim of racist violence that horrified the nation. That’s scary, but it’s true.

So maybe the time has come to treat our president as an irrelevancy.

Seriously.

On Wednesday, mourners of all colors and political stripes gathered in Charlottesville, Virginia, to listen as elegant voices eulogized Heather Heyer, who was killed Saturday when an alleged white supremacist drove his car into a crowd of marchers protesting the “Unite the Right” rally.

President Donald Trump was not among those who spoke; presumably he was not invited. Had the White House reached out, the family, with full justification, would have curtly refused. Trump’s bizarre but determined efforts to draw a moral equivalence between the neo-Nazis and those who opposed them has all but placed him outside the universe of rational discourse.

That’s a bad place for a chief executive to be.

In recent years we have become accustomed to presidential eulogies at moments that should bind us together.

Barack Obama was particularly skilled. Even his critics would concede that he gave two of the finest addresses of his presidency at the funeral of Pastor Clementa Pinckney after the 2015 terror shootings in Charleston, South Carolina, and at the service just over a year ago in honor of the five slain police officers in Dallas.

One expects the president to rise to such occasions.

Trump refuses.

His dwindling tribe of defenders insists that the news media are biased against him, a proposition that is true but in this case utterly irrelevant.

We speak here not of the refusal of the press to report what the president says but of the president’s inability

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The LP’s low regard for UP and the country HAIL TO THE CHAIR VICTOR AVECILLA LAST August 9, the moribund and discredited Liberal Party held an “unannounced” meeting of its few remaining active politicians. Ifugao Representative Teodoro Baguilat Jr. called the gathering a “low key” meeting of the party’s top names. It was held at the University Hotel at the Diliman, Quezon City campus of the University of the Philippines.

Leni Robredo, the purported vice president of the Philippines, was installed as LP chairman. Present at the event was defeated LP presidential candidate Manuel “Mar” Roxas.

Conspicuously absent was exPresident Benigno Aquino III, who was nonetheless named chairman emeritus of the party.

During the regime of Presi-

dent Aquino (2010-2016), the LP was the party in power. Because it was oozing with funds, its leaders pushed their weight around, and were intolerant of criticism. Soon enough, the party’s abuses were exposed, particularly the way LP politicians handled their so-called “pork barrel” allocations.

In the May 2016 presidential and vice presidential elections, Roxas was soundly defeated by Rodrigo Duterte, while Robredo was proclaimed the vice president. Her claim to the office is currently contested before the Supreme Court sitting as the Presidential Electoral Tribunal.

As expected, Roxas’ electoral loss triggered a mass exodus of the opportunistic politicians in the LP to the new party in power, the PDP-Laban of President Duterte. That exodus reduced the LP to near oblivion. Fortunately for the LP, it still has enough traditional politicians to give it enough noisemakers to

disturb the nation’s affairs.

In his statement to the media, Baguilat expressed a longing for the glory days of the LP when the party used to have its meetings (which were paid for by taxpayers’ money), at five-

The less the LP participates in the decision-making processes of the government, the better it is for the public interest.

star hotels in the country. He lamented that, “It’s quite telling that from a big hotel, we’re now having a meeting at the Univer-

sity Hotel.” From Baguilat’s perspective, therefore, a political party with a huge expense account should hold its events at plush hotels, while a political party with limited funds should settle for cheaper and smaller facilities like the University Hotel in UP Diliman.

Who is Baguilat anyway to insinuate that the UP is a second-rate venue for events? His press statement is an insult to UP and is uncalled for, especially from somebody who is listed in the online media as an alumnus of UP in Diliman.

If there is anyone who probably fits the description of second-rate, Baguilat is it. News archives indicate that this legislator from northern Luzon has not produced anything significant or groundbreaking during his incumbency in the House.

The only thing that seems to distinguish him from his colleagues in Congress is his penchant for wearing native attire

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ManilaStandard

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

TO DEMAND this time for a wider and greater autonomy to the existing Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao rather bad for the sensibilities of the Filipino people. These desperate disciples of violence and some grandstanding politicians completely ignore the fact that the country is still mourning for the death of our soldiers killed trying to restore order from these marauding bigots.

To ignore the bloody pitch battle where our soldiers have to inch their way to dislodge those that vandalize their own city of Marawi in the name of Islam is most outrageous.

Even if the Moro Islamic Liberation Front did not officially lend a hand in carrying out the siege that created havoc and destruction, nobody in his right mind would believe that they were not involved.

The Supreme Court already rejected the Bangsamoro Basic Law because it could see danger. In fact, their own mascot who participated in drafting it and now sits as associate justice; he was the lone wolf that voted to reject the martial law declaration of President Duterte because he knew the national emergency could demoralize the MILF. In fact, the US, Malaysia, and the yellow-shirted Liberal Party tried to bamboozle us to pass the BBL. To recall, President Marcos, despite their u nd iplomat ic rudeness in boycotting the scheduled signing of the Tripoli Agreement on December 23, 1976 nonetheless went ahead to issue P.D. No. 1092 on February 14, 1977 calling for a regional plebiscite in Regions XII and in the provinces of Palawan, Davao del Sur and South Cotabato.

But just before the proposed autonomy could be ratified, Hashim Salamat and al Hadj Murad demanded the ouster of MNLF chief Nur Misuari.

But since Salamat could not dislodge Misuari, his group then proceeded to form their own group committed to the goal of seceding from the Philippines.

From 1977 up the time Marcos was ousted in 1986 that magnanimous concession of granting them autonomy never truly worked because these people were in fact working hard not to allow it to work.

Their reason range from the fact that the autonomy was conceived by Marcos, that it was short of their expectations, or that they simply rejected it because what they wanted was a complete separation from the Philippines.

They remained firm to that objective to justify the continued financial and military support from Malaysia and other Islamic countries.

Right after Marcos was ousted, Cory up to Ramos wanted to appease the MNLF by using Misuari to get rid of the Marcos legacy by substituting the Tripoli Agreement with the version called the Jakarta Peace Agreement in 1996. Ramos naively thought that peace

would come because the 1987 Constitution created two autonomous regions in the country.

However, our national leadership to the present leadership failed to discern that the split between the MNLF and the MILF is simply beyond the issue of leadership. The split has only exacerbated the age-old enmity between the Tausugs and the Maranaos that not even their Islamic faith managed to bridge their differences. Misuari has to give up the struggle to secede after realizing that most Tausugs still support the Sultan of Sulo in reclaiming Sabah. It is this point where the MNLF and the MILF differed. The MILF understandably have no sympathy for the Sultan and neither are they interested in getting back Sabah without incurring the ire of Malaysia which holds the lifeline to their survival.

In the end the much hooted Jakarta Peace Accord failed to bring about peace because the MILF was not interested, notwithstanding it was already gaining wider support from among its foreign brokers, principally from Malaysia and the US, from the rich Maranao traders and from the few fringed fanatics like the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, Jemaah Islamiya, the Abu Sayyaf and lately the Mautes.

Thus, from 1999 up 2010, sporadic fighting continued with the MILF and MNLF taking turns in attacking government.

Despite om i nou s signs, the lamentable Noynoy Aquino gove r n m e n t continued to appease the MILF even if it had no clear idea what it wanted to achieve. On January 24, 2014, Philippine government chief negotiator Miriam Coronel Ferrer and MILF chief negotiator Mohagher Iqbal signed a peace agreement in Kuala Lumpur. The agreement could have paved the way for the drafting of the Bangsamoro Basic Law. Lately, the Maute group has gained prominence in the siege of Marawi City. This underscores why the conflict in Mindanao remains difficult to resolve with an increasing number of our people becoming resentful to any further negotiations because it seems they continue to ideologically evolve. After their first attempt to secede they have not only been able to revive their demand to establish an independent state, but are now openly demanding the establishment of an Islamic State to which they profess allegiance.

Their objective now is to establish a caliphate in the country with their followers continue to take the hardline often metamorphosing to become terrorists seeking to inflict the greatest casualties and damage to our people.

After the government suffered close to a hundred soldiers killed, with more than 300 civilians’ casualties, displacing almost a million resi-

Despite ominous signs, the lamentable Noynoy Aquino government continued to appease the MILF even if it had no clear idea what it wanted to achieve.

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The legacy of Ninoy Aquino

BACKBENCHER ROD P. KAPUNAN

Untimely and inappropriate

SATURDAY, AUGUST 19, 2017

MORE than three decades ago this Monday, that is on August 21, 1983, Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino was escorted out of a plane as it landed in Manila International Airport (now renamed Ninoy Aquino International Airport or Naia in his honor)) after years in exile in the United States. Though for fear of his life many close relatives had misgivings about his decision to return to the country, Ninoy brushed aside his fears and took a great leap of faith. But he definitely knew the danger he was walking into.

An undelivered speech said it all: “I have returned on my free will to join the ranks of those struggling to restore our rights and freedoms through nonviolence. I seek no confrontation.

I only pray and will strive for a genuine national reconciliation founded on justice. I am prepared for the worst, and have decided against the advice of my mother, my spiritual adviser, many of my tested friends and a few of my most valued political mentors x x x According to Gandhi, the willing sacrifice of the innocent is the most powerful answer to insolent tyranny that has yet been

It’s...

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to speak with a single note of grace or conciliation. He knows only verbal combat. Like Don Quixote, he jousts constantly against a world he considers cruel and unfair. The difference is that Quixote dueled against those who threatened the weak and the innocent; Trump fights against what he sees as slights against himself.

The Oval Office has been occupied by more arrogant men, but never in my lifetime by one so utterly self-involved. Criticism or even orthodox opinion is for Trump a hateful and smothering blanket. He is constantly punching his way out.

Jab, jab, hook, jab, jab, hook: The spectacle has become so bizarre that tens of millions evidently find it attractive. Cable news commentators hang on his every confused utterance or vile tweet. One has to work hard these days to find stories about what the administration is actually doing, because everything is crowded out by the nonstop circus of which he is the notterribly-competent ringmaster.

Trump longs to be Oz the Great and Powerful, magically unleashing the power of the

The LP’s...

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the same economic rights and privileges Filipinos had. Thus, even if the Philippines had become officially independent of the United States, the Philippine economy was still dominated by American interests.

That sad chapter in Philippine history was made possible by the LP. The exodus of LP politicians to the PDP-Laban camp, which took place almost right after President Duterte won the 2016 polls, should not be a surprise to LP leaders. In 1962, then President Diosdado Macapagal of the LP wanted Tarlac Governor Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr.

dents of Marawi City and an estimated damage to property running to billions of pesos, here comes former President Arroyo surprisingly seeking to revive the Bangsamoro law.

This comes at a time when the nation is still licking its wound from the ravages of war waged

conceived by God and man.”

As fate would have it, Ninoy did become the sacrifice that saved the country from the Marcos dictatorship.

My memory of that day is still vivid in my mind. It was a Sunday and I was at home in the House of Being, the apartment (it is now a Chicken Bacolod restaurant) I shared with other philosophy graduates, students, and teachers on Katipunan Avenue in Quezon City.

Politically, I was ambivalent about Ninoy Aquino. Although I liked him personally, I also considered him a traditional politician. When word came that Ninoy was coming back to the Philippines after a stint in Boston, I admit I didn’t care much. I vaguely remember that there were attempts to organize a student contingent to welcome him but I did not pay attention to that. But when I heard the news, I was both afraid and angry. It was clear to me that Ninoy’s assassination was a game-changer.

As I recalled in earlier columns, it took a number of days before I realized how nationchanging Ninoy’s assassination would be. The next day, I lined up for two hours at Santo Domingo to view the remains of the fallen leader. During his funeral, I marched under the rain all the way to Luneta and witnessed how millions came to honor the hero. The Filipino

people have finally awakened.

“Justice for Aquino, Justice for all!” was the rallying cry.

That was 34 years ago. But what does this event mean for us today, other than the convenience of a long weekend and a national holiday? Indeed, what is the lasting legacy of the martyrdom of Ninoy Aquino?

For sure, this legacy is not about justice and accountability. To this day, even with his widow and son having become presidents, we still do not know the mastermind(s) of Ninoy’s assassination. It is one of our biggest failures as a society— this impunity, this inability to make accountable those who commit crimes.

For me, the legacy of Ninoy Aquino is summarized in these immortal words: “My friends do not forget that your readiness to suffer will light the torch of freedom which can never be put out. Do not forget that we who are now in the middle of our years must inspire the youth when they are almost in the brink of despair.

Do not forget that the purpose of life is precisely reexamining our being, not merely a floating flotsam in the time, in the floods of time. Do not forget, as Longfellow said that we should never be like driven cattle, but be a hero in the strife.”

The spirit of Edsa has long faded. Today, we still face identical problems like we did

during the Marcos era—poverty, corruption, abuse of power, disregard for human rights, marginalization of the poor, etc. But these problems are manifesting themselves in a different way. The torture and imprisonment of political opponents of the Marcos regime to bring about a “new society” have been replaced by the daily massacre of the poor in the war against illegal drugs that its instigator himself has admitted cannot be won.

What Ninoy symbolizes remains as true today as it was 30 years ago. It is his courage to stand up against tyranny, his nobility in the face of adversity, his willingness to fight abuse and impunity with no regard to his person, and his determination and perseverance to fight for the dignity of every Filipino and his pure love for his country that make Ninoy an enduring emblem to the best virtues of our race.

Again, his words about the Filipino ring loud and true today: “I have weighed all the virtues and faults of the Filipinos, and I have come to the conclusion that the Filipino is worth dying for.”

The Filipino is worth dying for. But why are we killing so many of them today?

economy, or perhaps Harrison Ford in the film “Air Force One,” bashing the nation’s foreign enemies and kicking them off the plane. Alas, he’s more like Zaphod Beeblebrox, the fictional president of the galaxy in Douglas Adams’s geek classic “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy.” The election of Beeblebrox was seen by many “as the clinching proof that the whole of known creation had finally gone bananas.” 1 Beeblebrox was an ex-hippie (okay, that part doesn’t apply) whom Adams describes as a “manic self-publicist, terribly bad at personal relationships, often thought to be completely out to lunch.” He was ideal for the post because he was “an infuriating but fascinating character.”

Writes Adams: “His job is not to wield power but to draw attention away from it.”

Just consider the amount of airtime that has been occupied by deep analyses of each presidential utterance about the Charlottesville attack. Commentators keep asserting that Trump should say something different, something better, something richer and more unifying. But he cannot, and we know he cannot. He entirely lacks the capacity for grace.

He hasn’t a clue what it takes to pull a country together, and I’m not sure he would do it if he could. Trump’s commentary on Charlottesville has been like his commentary on much else: scattershot, unthoughtful, belligerent, offensive and wrong.

Yet we go on asking him to say more, whereas in a saner country we would ignore him.

By the Beeblebrox standard, Trump has done his job of distracting us from serious debates over policy. Try to find in-depth coverage of the Interior Department’s decision to revoke the Obama administration’s rule raising royalties for coal mined on federal and tribal lands, or of the Trump administration’s proposal for sharp restrictions on the ability of the Food and Drug Administration to hire foreign nationals, or of the debate over whether Germany, in the wake of Trump’s criticism, will or will not increase defense spending. You can dig up information, but you have to go looking for it. In this sense, news reporting has become a casualty in the Trump era. Like Beeblebrox, he is infuriating yet fascinating.

It’s hard to turn away.

But it’s time to try. The news media would do better to start ignoring the man in the Oval

Office—ignoring, at least, most of what he has to say. Journalists should by all means cover what the president and his appointees actually do, particularly at the level of regulation. But the nonstop coverage of his every silly or venal remark leaves little room for conversation about what his administration is doing—and yet it is those acts, not his words, that will have a lasting effect on the nation. So let’s stop wasting energy deconstructing his tweets and start the important democratic work of debating his policies.

I’m no leftie, and I’ve never thought of myself as part of the anti-Trump resistance, which is a bit too morally smug for my taste. And regular readers know that I have little use for the argument ad hominem. But enough is enough. I’m glad the president didn’t speak at the service for Heather Heyer. I’m also glad that the news media have somewhat underreported his too-little, toolate tweet about what a wonderful woman she was. She clearly was—but it’s time to stop caring about whether Trump says so. If we pay less attention to the utterances of the graceless vulgarian in the White House, perhaps the nation can indeed begin to heal Bloomberg

of the rival Nacionalista Party (NP) to join the LP. Because Macapagal refused to allocate enough funds for Tarlac unless Ninoy cooperated, the latter was compelled to join the LP camp. Despite this historical fact, LP publicists love to refer to Ninoy as one the LP’s original stalwarts.

Even the presidency of Macapagal, which lasted from December 1961 to December 1965, was marred by the Harry Stonehill scandal. That scandal broke out when Stonehill, an American businessman with connections to Malacañang, was discovered to have kept top government officials on his payroll in exchange for commercial concessions and special treatment. To put a hush to the

scandal, Macapagal ordered the immediate deportation of Stonehill in 1962.

The LP is also known for many turncoats and opportunists in its ranks. Prior to the proclamation of martial law in the Philippines in September 1972, the LP proudly presented itself to the people as the opposition political party against then President Ferdinand Marcos. Weeks after the proclamation of martial law, many LP politicians renounced their ties with the LP. When parliamentary elections were called in 1978, many ex-LP stalwarts identified themselves with and ran for seats under the pro-Marcos political party, the Kilusang Bagong Lipunan.

The presidency of Benigno

Aquino III was also marred by charges of corruption and incompetence. Revelations that pork-barrel funds were grossly misused by congressmen, especially those with direct connections to the Budget Secretary, himself an LP ringleader, triggered a national outrage. Billions of pesos from the Malampaya natural gas fund remained unaccounted for by finance officials of the Aquino administration.

In the end, what hit hard against the LP leadership was the infamous Mamasapano massacre in Maguindanao, a tragedy which could have been avoided if the president focused his time on his duties as the commanderin-chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Filipinos considering that the events in Marawi is still fresh in their memory. The MILF remains adamant insisting that they will not back down from their original demand for autonomy despite suspicion that many of their soldiers were involved in the fighting. But at

this stage, it is not that President Duterte refuses but the repercussion that the majority of the Filipinos might interpret his decision as an outright betrayal of their sacrifices to keep our Republic united under one flag.

by terrorists who will never recognize peace except under on their own terms.

Even if President Duterte favors the adoption of a federal system of government, advancing the Bangsamoro basic law in the name of federalism, that would not be welcomed by

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SATURDAY, AUGUST 19, 2017 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

News

Judges warned on use of social media

By Rey E. Requejo THE Office of the Court Administrator has cautioned judges and court personnel nationwide to be circumspect when sharing their photographs and views in social media.

Court Administrator Jose Midas Marquez issued the advisory after the OCA observed that some judges and court personnel have been active in various social networking sites like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

“It has been observed that some judges and court personnel have been taking active part in social networking sites by sharing personal photographs and updates, and posting their views and comments on certain issues and current events,” the circular, which was signed by Court Administrator Jose Midas Marquez said, in OCA Circular No. 173 dated Aug. 17, 2017.

While being active in social networking sites can be considered an exercise of freedom of expression, it “may be considered inappropriate for members of the judiciary due to the higher standard of integrity, candor and fairness reposed on them,” the Court administator said.

“Accordingly, in communicating and socializing through social networks, judges must bear in mind that what they communicate—regardless

IN BRIEF Customs exceeded target—Faeldon THE Bureau of Customs collected more than P212 billion in duties and taxes for the first six months of the year, up 11.3 percent from the P190 billion reported during the same period last year.

Customs Commissioner Nicanor Faeldon reported that the country’s second biggest tax collection agency collected a total of P212.16 billion from January to June, up by more than P22 billion during the first six months of 2017 under the Duterte adminisration.

Of the 17 collection districts, 10 ports have exceeded their collection targets for the month and these are the Port of San Fernando which collected P1.517 billion, up 35.4 percent from P1.120-billion target; Port of Legaspi collected P194.5 million, up 58.8 percent from P122.4-million target; Port of Iloilo with P1.213 billion, up 0.7 percent from P1.205-billion target and the Port of Tacloban that earned P169.8 million, up 59.3 percent from P106.6-million target.Vito Barcelo

Basilan mayor ordered dismissed

of whether it is a personal matter or part of his or her judicial duties— creates and contributes to the people’s opinion not just of the judge but of the entire judiciary of which he or she is a part,” the circular stated.

Marquez cited Section 6, Canon 4 of the New Code of Judicial Conduct which provides that in the exercise of freedom of expression, judges and court personnel “shall always conduct themselves in a manner as to preserve the dignity of the judicial office and the impartiality and independence of the judiciary.”

“All told, judges and court personnel who participate in social media are enjoined to be cautious and circumspect in posting photographs, liking posts and making comments in public on social networking sites, for public confidence in the judiciary (may be) eroded by their irresponsible or improper conduct,” the Court administrator pointed out.

Covered by the circular were judges and court personnel in the first and second level courts.

The first level courts include the Metropolitan Trial Courts, Municipal Trial Courts, Municipal Trial Courts in Cities, Municipal Circuit Trial Courts and Shari'a Circuit Courts.

The second level courts are the Regional Trial Courts and Shari'a District Courts.

GOLDEN ROOSTER DONATION TO AFP. The Golden Rooster Foundation Inc., led by chairperson Monica Prieto-Teodoro, donated

P1,000,000 to the Armed Forces of the Philippines for the benefit of the children of AFP casualties of the Marawi siege. The event was held in Malacañan Palace before President Rodrigo Roa Duterte. The Golden Rooster Foundation was established by Mrs. Teodoro, a former Tarlac representative who was responsible for the creation of the standing committee on the welfare of children in the 14th Congress, to pursue initiatives promoting children's welfare and to assist children who are abused, displaced, or orphaned. As a legislator Mrs. Teodoro was credited for having the most numerous child welfare bills passed into law and for the creation of the Amor Village in Anao, Tarlac, a center for abandoned children rated number 1 in the country by the DSWD. Photo shows Mrs. Teodoro handing the donation to Gen. Eduardo Año, AFP Chief of Staff, President Duterte, Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, and Jaime Prieto Teodoro who witnessed the donation.

JV: LTFRB order vs Uber affected riding public T

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

HE order of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board to allow Uber drivers to transfer to Grab and U-Hop while Uber remains suspended raised more questions than answers, Senator JV Ejercito said Friday.

Ejercito had said that while it was only proper that Uber should be penalized for defying LTFRB regulations, the penalty imposed on it by the agency has inconvenienced the public and has had a negative impact on Uber drivers' livelihood.

"With this new order, isn't the agency essentially attempting to

mitigate the problems caused by the very order they issued?" he asked.

"Yes, Uber violated regulations. They have apologized.

They should be punished. But the punishment should take into consideration the larger interest of the public," he said.

He also questioned if the LT-

FRB was too proud to shorten the suspension period or accede to Uber's request to just pay a fine in lieu of suspension.

"Don't these alternatives drive home the point that no one can get away with violating our rules but at the same time avoiding exacerbating the suffering of Filipino commuters?" Ejercito asked.

Meanwhile, Akbayan Senator Risa Hontiveros called on the LTFRB to stop its ‘selective crackdown just to prove a point’ and review its suspension order.

She noted that the blanket suspension affects at least 200,000 riders in Metro Manila daily.

“Commuters are taking the brunt of this punishment, which

THE Office of the Ombudsman found on Friday incumbent Al-Barka Mayor Darussalam Lajid of Basilan guilty of gross neglect of duty for failure to ensure the timely completion of a water project in 2014.

Lajid was also meted out the penalty of dismissal from the service with forfeiture of all retirement benefits and perpetual disqualification from holding public office.

The case stemmed from Lajid’s lapses to complete the Salintubig program of the bottom-up budgeting project in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao worth P4,275,000.

Apart from Lajid, also ordered dismissed were municipal accountant Edgardo Chiong, municipal engineer Al-Shid Abdulmajid, municipal treasurer Nasser Asarul and clerk Zaidee Jakilan.

Rio N. Araja

“A one-kilometer distance is being charged by abusive taxi drivers P200, according to some reports. Yung iba, nakaka-ilang para ng taxi kasi ‘pagarahe na’ o ‘wala sa ruta," Hontiveros added.

“Are you cracking down on abusive taxi drivers and colorum units as much as you are hellbent on cracking down on Uber and TNVS providers?” Hontiveros asked the LTFRB. On Monday, LTFRB suspended the accreditation and operations Transport Network Vehicle Service provider Uber System Inc. for a month, citing several violations. Uber appealed for a motion for reconsideration but was junked by the regulatory board.

Leni tops poll as next DSWD chief

By John Paolo Bencito

DoT expects more visitors from China The Department of Tourism on Friday said the implementation of the Visa Upon Arrival program may yet catapult China as a top source market of visitors to the Philippines.

The DoT expressed its appreciation for the favorable action of the Department of Justice to DoT’s long-standing proposal to ease the visa rules and procedures, specifically to implement the VUA policy for Chinese visitors.

Tourism Secretary Wanda Teo had pressed for DoJ’s approval and implementation of the VUA, as DoT positions the country to become a rightful competitor in international tourism industry.

“We also believe this will serve as an incentive to Chinese guests who may be prospective investors wanting to prove that the country is not only a safe haven for tourists but also a lucrative business location as well,” Teo said.

Following President Rodrigo Duterte’s state visit to China in mid-October 2016 and the lifting of Beijing’s travel restriction against the Philippines, Chinese arrivals surged to 675,663 by yearend, up by 37.65 percent from 490,841 in 2015. Bill Casas

is unfair," said Hontiveros, even as she reminded Uber to follow LTFRB regulations for their clients’ welfare.

“It does not bid well for the public if Uber continues to defy LTFRB,” she said.

She said the blanket suspension is cruel to those who are left with no alternatives and left to be preyed upon by abusive taxi drivers. Yung LTFRB pinag-30 day challenge ang mga commuters,” she added.

Although cognizant of the challenges in the public transport system and public transport groups, Hontiveros said that LTFRB must not remain deaf to the collective groan of the public on the serving of the suspension.

QUEZON’S DAY. A day before the 139th birth anniversary of Manuel L. Quezon, a member of the Philippine Army raise up a giant flag at the Quezon Memorial Circle in Quezon City, as part of dry run for the 139th birth anniversary celebration of the late president of the Commonwealth of the Philippines. Manny Palmero

RAM appeals to Du30 for amnesty MEMBERS of the Reform the Armed Forces Movement appealed to President Rodrigo Duterte the granting of amnesty decades after they launched coup attempts in the first Aquino administration, Malacañang said Friday.

“They likewise asked the President for amnesty so that they could receive their back pay and livelihood opportunities for the members of the RAM,” Presidential Spokesman Ernesto Abella told reporters in a Palace news briefing.

While Abella said he was not privy if Duterte plans to grant their amnesty request, he said that the President’s willingness to meet with

RAM shows he views the group in a “positive” light.

“I believe he [Duterte] viewed it positively. I don't know the exact action that he will take but the fact that he met with them shows that he is quite open to their requests,” Abella said.

Military spokesperson Brigadier General Restituto Padilla said some of RAM members needed to be granted amnesty in order to receive their gratuities due to their “advanced age.”

“They want amnesty to get their gratuities, benefits. So being of advanced age, of course, many of them will have requirements for health and support for their medi-

cines,” he added.

On Wednesday, the President met with Senator Gregorio Honasan and other RAM members including retired Captains Felix Turingan and Glen Agudo; retired Navy commodore Rex Robles; retired Colonels Marcelino Malajacan Jr., Hernando Caraig, and James Joven; Retired Police Director Victor Batac; and Engineer Jegie Pereda.

Members of RAM, who staged a series of unsuccessful military coups against late President Corazon Aquino from 1986 to 1989, were charged with rebellion and arrested but some of them were granted amnesty. John Paolo Bencito

VICE President Leni Robredo won as the top choice of netizens to lead the Department of Social Welfare and Development next to erstwhile Social Welfare Secretary Judy Taguiwalo, in a Twitter poll conducted by Communications Assistant Secretary Margaux “Mocha” Uson.

Malacañang, however, said that it would be difficult to have Robredo once again in the President’s official family since leaving her post early in the administration’s first year.

In a poll posted at Uson’s Twitter account Robredo maintained a strong lead with 82 percent of votes, followed by Social Welfare Assistant Secretary Lorraine Badoy at six percent and Nikki Prieto-Teodoro, wife of former Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro, at 2 percent.

Those undecided or expressed a different pick is at 10 percent.

Sought for comment, Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said that the President “has other ways of measuring a candidate’s capability aside from surveys” to consider his next pick as DSWD chief.

Abella likewise noted that there might be “conditionalities” that may not be too favorable if Duterte would choose Robredo to succeed Taguiwalo.

“For the plain and simple reason that for example, she has already resigned from the—you know, she’s—that particular job is a Cabinet level job,” he said.

Last December 2017, Robredo resigned as Housing secretary after she was instructed by Abella to stop attending Cabinet meetings.

The powerful Commission on Appointments had recently rejected Taguiwalo’s confirmation as Social Welfare secretary.

In an interview, Taguiwalo said she would have appreciated a clear explanation from members of the Commission on Appointments who rejected her nomination.

Abella, however, expressed confidence that during Taguiwalo's stint as Social Welfare chief, she enjoyed Duterte's “full trust and support,” even when she sided with leftist groups opposing the President's position.

“We wish Secretary Taguiwalo all the best in her future endeavors.

She knows she will always have the President's gratitude and friendship for the time of a brief that they spent together in the service of our people,” Abella said.

“I don't know if that’s possible [that Taguiwalo may be reappointed in other government offices]. I don’t know if that’s a precedent for that but I would not be surprised. I mean, I don’t think it’s entirely unthinkable,” he added.

Also on Friday, the Presidential Communications Operations Office once again became the object of ridicule when it tweeted the word “fafda”—a nonexistent word in both the Filipino and English languages— which was immediately deleted within 7 minutes after posting.

Communications Secretary Martin Andanar admitted that the tweet was made by a staffer within his own office, and that he already wrote a memo to all of their social media administrators.

“I immediately wrote a memo to all of our social media admins to be more careful,” Andanar said.

‘Fafda’ became a trending topic in Philippine trending topics over Twitter, as netizens tried to give meaning to the new presidential typo.

Some netizens drew comparisons with Donald Trump’s presidential typo “covfefe,” a clause with no context that also took social media by storm.

Sports

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SATURDAY, AUGUST 19, 2017 sports_mstandard@yahoo.com

Tabuena rules Aboitiz Invitational

C

ARMONA, Cavite—Miguel Tabuena edged Angelo Que in a gripping highnoon shootout and captured the Aboitiz Invitational crown with another impeccable display of shotmaking and putting, becoming the first winner of the inaugural PGT Asia Tour at the Manila Southwoods here yesterday.

Tabuena moved past Que and Indonesian Ian Andrew with a solid 31 start but blew a two-stroke lead as Que ran off a cluster of birdies at the back only to blink with a costly double-bogey on par3 16th, enabling the 22-year-old Rio Olympics veteran to regain the lead and snare the fiercely-disputed crown on a closing bogey-free 65.

“It’s a great win. My putting

birdies in a five-hole stretch from No. 10. But he mishit a 7-iron tee-shot while tackling the wind on the 170yard No. 16 and found the water, failing to save a bogey from eight feet.

That shoved Tabuena, who made a regulation par, back in the lead before matching Que’s closing birdie and par to pocket the crown and the top $17,500 purse on a 23-under 265 total in the anwas so good today,” said Tabuena, nual event sponsored by Aboitiz who sealed the win with a clutch Equity Ventures Inc. uphill birdie putt from 10 feet at Que ended up with a 67 and the par-5 17th to negate Que’s tap- settled for second at 266 worth in birdie. “But as I’ve said, it was $11,500 while Andrew, who acnot going to be easy, especially tually grabbed the lead with two with Angelo around.” birdies in the first four holes but Que, one ahead of Tabuena and slipped back with a bogey on the Andrew after 54 holes, fell behind fifth, took third place with a 271 after nine holes despite a 34 but re- and received $7,000. gained a one-stroke lead with four “My caddy [Artemio Muraka-

mi] and I decided to use a 7-iron at first. But he changed his mind and would’ve wanted me to use a 6-iron instead. But it was too late,” said Que, who went for broke on the 18th but failed to set up a good birdie opportunity.

The victory was Tabuena’s 13th on the local circuit, including the weather-shortened Philippine Open in late 2015 and the TCC Invitational and the Luisita Championship this year, and his latest feat should fire up the former child prodigy all the more as he shuttles to and from Asia and Europe in search of world ranking points the rest of the season.

It was also a fitting ending to a start of the region’s newest circuit put up by ICTSI and organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc.

which features eight legs, including the second stop at Luisita—the PGTA CAT (Central Azucarera de Tarlac) Open—on Sept. 6-9.

In a brief stretch, Andrew looked headed to spoiling the country’s top guns’ impending mano-a-mano, wresting control after four holes.

But he stumbled with a bogey on the next and Tabuena hit three straight birdies from No. 4 and closed out the frontside with back-to-back birdies to move on top.

Two down, Que countered with his own birdie-binge on Nos. 10, 11 and regained the lead with another birdie on No. 13. He held sway by matching Tabuena’s birdie on the par-5 14th only to yield the lead again—for good—with that uncharacteristic double-bogey on the 16th.

Adidas launches running event

By Nathanielle Punay PARTICIPANTS from Metro Manila joined “Run Hard, Play Hard” as Adidas launched the first leg of their global running event in the Philippines entitled “Adidas Runners Manila” last Aug. 16 in Bonifacio Global City.

Starting off at the Adidas store in Two Parkade, the run haD three pit stops approximately three kilometers apart. In every pit stop, a participant must do different exercises such as jumping jacks and crunches that are guided by lead runners and coaches specializing in strengthening, conditioning, running and nutrition.

Jules Aquino, who works as a model and an athlete in different sports; Maureen Schrijvers, who won medals in race and high jump competition and coach Ani de Leon-Brown, who is known as the “Iron Lady” for competing in the Ironman World Championship also pareticipated.

“With Adidas Runners Manila, we’re building a community that’s united by our love for running. As captains, we’re here to push our runners to get better each week and have fun doing it,” coach Ani said.

Adidas Runners Manila will hold a running event every week where everyone is welcome to join. Schedule of activities will be posted at the team’s public Facebook group, where events in other countries are also posted.

Rewards are given to participants in the Runners’ weekly activities where there are four levels to be aimed.

The event had almost 130 participants from different running clubs which includes the Ayala Triad, Team Titans Manila, Urban Runners Club, Snail Runners Alabang and Team Laban.

Miguel Tabuena kiss his first Aboitiz Invitational trophy after nipping Angelo Que in the kickoff leg of the PGT Asia Tour.

Cojuangco sees successful 2019 SEAG

By Peter Atencio THE 2005 Southeast Asian Games featured 40 sports disciplines, and this will also most like be featured in the 2019 SEA Games when the Philippines hosts it again two years from now.

Philippine Olympic Committee president Jose “Peping” Cojuangco Jr. said this before he left for Kuala Lumpur for the start of the 29th SEA Games and to attend the SEA Games Federation Council meeting.

“We hosted a successful 2005

SEA Games. There were no complaints. They will happy to know that we will be hosting it again.

And they will not be anxious to know what are the events that will be played,” said Cojuangco.

In the 23rd edition of the Games, organizers staged the highest number of sporting events in the entire history SEA Games at that time.

The sports disciplines that were included, except for arnis, were sports events that were played in the Olympics.

This will be the same principle that we will use when

we decide what games will be played,” said Cojuangco.

Newly named organizing committee chairman Allan Peter Cayetano, who is also the Foreign Affairs secretary, said they will soon meet and finalize matters concerning the Games.

They are thinking of holding some of the games inside the new Clark Green City in Pampanga, the Philippines Arena in Bulacan and in some facilities in Zambales.

“Alam na ng international community ang Boracay, Cebu, Bohol at Palawan. But they

don’t know that Zambales is beautiful,” said Cayetano.

The Games in the Philippines will most likely be calendared in the months of November or December.

“It’s usually in November and December. And that’s because of the (good) weather,” said Cojuangco, who finalized Cayetano’s role on the biennial meet two years from now before he left for Kuala Lumpur yesterday.

Archery, aquatics, athletics and badminton would most likely be among those included in the Games calendar.

PH archers miss the mark KUALA LUMPUR—The Philippines ended its campaign in the compound event on a heart-breaking note after Paul Marton dela Cruz and Amaya Paz-Cojuangco lost in the semifinals of the 29th Malaysian Southeast Asian Games archery competitions Friday at Merdeka Square here.

Even worse, the Dela CruzCojuangco tandem failed to wind up on the podium after losing to Vietnam’s Chau Kieu Kanh and Tien Cuong Nguyen, 156-159, in the bronze-medal match.

Prior to that, the Filipino duo led Myanmar’s Aung Ngaan and Ye Min Swe in the semifinal match only to see the Burmese rally to tie it at 154 all.

In the shoot-off, Dela Cruz and Ye Min Swe both shot 10s, but the latter’s arrow was closer to the bullseye, lifting the

Myanmar tandem to the finals against eventual gold medalist Malaysia.

Seen quietly sobbing inside the Philippine tent after heartbreaking setback was Cojuangco, a two-time gold SEA Games gold medalist who won a silver in the 2015 Singapore edition but failed to medal for the first time in four stints in the regional meet.

“Walang istorya kasi natalo. Sorry po,” Cojuangco said.

The Filipino compound archers, who entered the tournament with rising expectations, wound up with two bronze medals, one courtesy of Dela Cruz and the trio of Earl Yap, Joseph Benjamin Vicencio and Dela Cruz in the men’s team compound.

This was lower than the one silver and the two bronzes that their predecessors took home in the Singapore SEA Games.

“We were surprised by the strength of the field here, especially Indonesia, which kept its training under wraps,” noted coach Clint Sayo of the Indons, who swept the men’s and women’s team compound events.

“All of these squads trained hard. But since archery is also a mental game, you have to maintain your calm under pressure.

The other archers were more consistent in doing that,” Sayo, a gold medalist in the 1995 Thailand SEA Games, said.

“It’s all a matter of here and here,” said the coach, pointing to his heart and head.

Where the Philippine compound archers failed to deliver, their recurve counterparts aim to break the gold-medal drought when the competitions get going with the men’s and women’s team recurve contests at the National Sports School Synthetic Turf Field on Monday.

Paul Marton Dela Cruz and Amaya Paz of the Philippines compete against Chau Kieu Kanh and Tien Cuong Nguyen of Vietnam in the bronze-medal match of the mixed team compound archery event Friday at Merdeka Square in Kuala Lumpur.

Warriors’ Durant will boycott White House if invited WASHINGTON—Golden State Warriors star Kevin Durant said Thursday he would boycott the White House if the NBA champions are invited, accusing President Donald Trump of escalating racial tensions in the country.

In an interview with ESPN, 2017 NBA Finals MVP Durant said if the Warriors were invited to Washington in keeping with recent tradition of honoring sports teams, he would skip the event in protest.

“Nah, I won’t do that,” Durant told ESPN at an event in his hometown of Seat Pleasant, Maryland. “I don’t respect who’s in office right now...I don’t agree with what he agrees with, so my voice is going to be heard by not doing that.”

Durant stressed that his decision was a personal choice, but added that he expected many Warriors players would follow suit if the team was invited.

“That’s just me personally, but if I know

my guys well enough, they’ll all agree with me,” Durant said.

Durant’s teammate Stephen Curry has already said he would be unlikely to attend while Warriors coach Steve Kerr has been a vocal critic of Trump.

Durant was speaking amid an outcry over Trump’s response to violence in Charlottesville, Virginia, last weekend which saw neoNazi and white supremacist groups clash with counter-protesters.

Durant said he believed Trump bore responsibility for stoking racial divisions in the United States.

“He’s definitely driving it,” Durant said. “I feel ever since he’s got into office, or since he ran for the presidency, our country has been so divided and it’s not a coincidence. When (Barack) Obama was in office, things were looking up. We had so much hope in our communities where I come from because we had a black president, and that was a first. AFP

Tabal wants to end drought KUALA LUMPUR—After a failed campaign in the Rio Olympics, Mary Joy Tabal aims to end a long seven-year gold medal drought in marathon event when she campaigns in the 29th Southeast Asian Games Saturday at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium here.

Tabal hopes to improve her silver medal finish in the previous SEA Games in Singapore as she starts her campaign in the 42-kilometer race that kicks off at 6:15 in the morning.

Also hoping for a podium finish is Jeson Agravante in the men’s competition.

With enough training in Italy and Switzerland, the 28-year-old Tabal is expected to overcome the expected 38 to 41 degrees early morning temperature and deliver the country’s first gold after an earlier one silver and two bronzes haul in the first three-days of competition.

“Feelings that’s hard to express in words. I’m excited, nervous, thankful, humbled and hopeful. I will wear the flag with pride. I will compete with a heart and will fight like a warrior,” the pint-size Tabal said “Yes! Goal for this training is the SEA Games. I had a good training in Italy, it was indeed hard but rewarding, it went well.”

With a of 3:04:39 in 2015 in Singapore, Tabal is expecting rivals and SEA Games gold medalist Natthaya Thanaronnawat of Thailand (3:03:25) and bronze medal winner Hoang Thị Thanh of Vietnam (3:07:14) to give her close competition in the race.

“I am always grateful for everything. I will never be here right now without the people who believed in me, no words can express how grateful I am now for having these opportunities. It’s a great feeling to be bringing our country’s name.”

For his part, Agravante of Silay City vowed to do his best in the marathon event previously ruled by Eduardo Buenavista in 2009 in Laos and Jho-An Banayag (2:46:34).

Frayna extracts draw from GM to finish in top 10 JANELLE Mae Frayna drew with second seed Grandmaster Alexandre Dgebuadze of Belgium in the ninth and final round to finish in the top 10 of the Brugse Meesters Chess 2017 in Brugge, Belgium Thursday night.

Frayna was actually winning but she couldn’t cash in on it and ended up settling for a split, leaving her in a six-way logjam at eight place with 6.5 points and eventually winding up 10th overall after tiebreaks were applied.

Dutch International Master Lucas Van Foreest topped the event with eight points.

It was the best finish for the country’s first Woman Grandmaster in five tournaments since embarking on an ambitious European campaign where she hopes to gain rating points to barge into the elite women’s top 10.

“This has been my 5th tournament in Europe and my first time to win a trophy. In the past tourneys, I had some fantastic start but would end up badly placed in the last 2 rounds,” said Frayna. “In this tourney, I played against 3 GMs [two draws, one loss] and managed to gain more ELO rating points.

“It’s just a pity that on my 9th and last round against a Belgian GM, I had a winning position but misplayed it and the game was eventually drawn. Nevertheless, I really learned a great deal here,” she added.

GM Jayson Gonzales, Frayna’s coach and trainer, wasn’t as fortunate as he fell to Eelke De Boer of the Netherlands to finish with six points.

Frayna’s trip is bankrolled by Phl Sports Commission, National Chess Federation of the Phl, FEU’s Aurelio Montinola, The Philippine STAR’s Miguel Belmonte and Edward Go and backed by Senate President Koko Pimentel and Bobby Ang.

LOTTO RESULTS 6/45 00-00-00-00-00-00 P0.0 M+ 4 DIGITS 00-00-00-00 3 DIGITS 00-00-00 2 EZ2 00-00

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

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SATURDAY, AUGUST 19, 2017

Sports

PH pins hopes on 128 university athletes

Meralco Bolts big man Reynel Hugnatan (left) fires a jumper over the blocking hands of Phoenix Petroleum Fuelmasters big man Doug Kramer (18). The Bolts prevailed, 107-104.

Meralco Bolts scramble past Phoenix Petroleum, 107-104 B

By Jeric Lopez

ACK on track.

The Meralco Bolts unleashed a furious fourth quarter avalanche to rally past the Phoenix Petroleum Fuelmasters, 107-104, and further improve their standing in the 2017 Philippine Basketball Association Governors’ Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum yesterday.

With the absence of key players, Allen Durham carried his team on his back, with monster team-highs of 33 points and 16 rebounds for yet another double-double.

He wasn’t alone though as guard Garvo Lanete also stepped up his game. Lanete had a splendid scoring night with 27 points, including six triples, to help Meralco on offense big time.

Lyceum preserves unbeaten record

Meralco improved to 5-1 to tie the NLEX Road Warriors at second place.

“We knew we had to have a big effort to win this game with some of our guys out. AD (Durham) was pretty consistent tonight but I thought Garvo Lanete gave us a big lift and made some key baskets for us,” said Meralco coach Norman Black. “Hats off to my players for this win.”

Following its 2-0 start, Phoenix have now lost four in a row and fell further down with a 2-4 slate.

After trailing through the first three quarters, Meralco suddenly woke up and turned on the switch to completely turn the tide and snatch the game away when it mattered the most.

Trailing 75-84 to start the fourth, the Bolts detonated a decisive 21-3 bomb to take a critical 95-87 advantage after Chris Newsome’s basket with 5:12 remaining.

Though the Fuel Masters stuck around, they never recovered as the Bolts held on to pull off the tremendous comeback win.

New Phoenix import Brandon Brown had the chance to send the game to overtime but his potential tying triple in the last second was off the mark.

Brown, who took the place of

injured Eugene Phelps, immediately made his presence felt with a game-high 38 points and nine rebounds.

Veteran gunner Jeff Chan also played his first game as a Fuel Master after being acquired from Rain or Shine in a trade last week, making good account of himself right away with 27 points.

However, their efforts weren’t enough to snap Phoenix’s skid.

The Fuel Masters, behind the scoring of Brown and Chan, took charge in the second quarter by unleashing a 21-10 blast in the closing minutes to take a 57-45 spread with just second left before halftime. They eventually carried a 57-49 edge at the turn after that 38-point second period scoring and led until the fourth period where the Bolts suddenly took command of the game.

Dylan Ababou, another new

Mayweather not impressed by McGregor in footage

By Peter Atencio THE odds were against the Lyceum Pirates, but they still found a way to turn the tables on the Letran Knights, 75-68, and claim their eighth straight triumph yesterday in the 93rd National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) men’s basketball tournament at the Arena in San Juan.

Trailing by as much as 17 points, they leaned on a 13-4 blast in the last period to wrest the upper hand midway in the last period, and thus earn the solo lead when the smoke of battle cleared.

“We talked about composure just like the last game. I gave them reminders. They are going to make a run, the calls will not be in our favour. I just showed them situations. I’m proud of these guys. Hindi sila sumuko, It was really a good test for us,” said the Pirates assistant coach Jeff Perlas.

CJ Perez hit 14 points for the Pirates, while Jaycee Marcelino and Mike Nzeusseu added 13 apiece.

It was attacks from Nzeusseu and Reymar Caduyac in the last 4:40 that allowed the Pirates to finally grab the upperhand after training 53-59, at the end of the third.

Nzeusseu’s driving layup following Perez’s miss handed the Pirates a 66-64 lead.

From there, the Pirates kept the Knights scoreless, and they went on to stay in front, 70-64.

The Knights, playing without injured forward Jeo Ambohot, had Rey Nambatac making 16 points, dropped to third at 5-4. Ambohot suffered a season-ending right wrist injury against the San Sebastian.

Meanwhile, Ryan Costelo banged in 10 of 11 points in the fourth period and then made crucial stops that helped the San Sebastian Stags escape with a 75-73 win over Emilio Aguinaldo College.

player acquired by Phoenix just a few days ago in a separate trade involving Cyrus Baguio, who was let go of the team, also made his debut for the Fuelmasters.

The Fuel Masters missed the services of National team player Matthew Wright while the Bolts likewise missed Baser Amer for the same reason and forward Cliff Hodge due to injury.

Meanwhile, NLEX (5-1) is shooting for its second straight win and is looking to close in on a quarterfinals berth as it is currently playing Blackwater (1-3) as of this report.

PBA action continues tomorrow also at the Big Dome with another pair of critical games.

GlobalPort (1-2) takes on winless Kia (0-6) at 4:30 p.m. while a heavyweight clash takes place after as TNT KaTropa (2-1) faces Rain or Shine (2-2) at 6:45 p.m.

TAIPEI—A 128-strong Philippine delegation, led by a crack billiards and wushu team, will pit guts and skills with the rest of the world’s best in the 29th Summer Universiade, which begins here today with its opening ceremonies.

Rodlin John Bautista of Trinity University of Asia and Gillian Margaret Go of University of Santo Tomas, together with fellow cue artist James Lim from Far Eastern University are some of the Philippines’ best bets in the 11-day sporting spectacle featuring the world’s greatest university athletes.

Bautista, for one has been a dominant force in the local stage, while winning a couple of crowns internationally, including the Tiger Cup 10-Ball Championship, where he also emerged as the Most Valuable Player.

On the other hand, Go was a veteran of the World 10-Ball Championship where she competed with the likes of world queens Rubilyn Amit and Iris Ranola.

Also expected to figure prominently for Team Philippines are wushu artists Kelly Marcelo, Jomar Balangui, Gladys Sia, Czarina Joy Hagos, Abigail Faniega, Earl Van Erick Pasno and Sean Elijah Wico Siy, spearheaded by team leader Su Hun Kiong.

Sanctioned by the Federation of School Sports Association of the Philippines, the Filipinos are taking part in 13 events such as archery, athletics, badminton, billiards, diving, judo, golf, swimming, table tennis, taekwondo, lawn tennis, weightlifting and wushu from Aug. 19 to 30. The team is backed

by San Miguel Cop., Bestank and Garfield Sportswear.

“It will be a tough climb for all of our athletes. But I’m sure everyone will give it their best,” said FESSAP president David Ong. “We wish them all the luck as we cheer them in the sidelines,” added Ong, who is joined here

by FESSAP Chaiman and Delegation Head Alvin Tai Lian, flag bearer Angel Ngu, honorary president of the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Christian Tan, weightllifting official.

Once called the World University Games, the Summer Universiade is a widely-publicized multi-sports event held every two years. It is considered by many as the Olympics at the university level. Riera U. Mallari

Floyd Mayweather Jr. (left) faces off for the first time with UFC fighter Conor McGregor during a press call at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California. AFP

LOS ANGELES—Floyd Mayweather has accused Conor McGregor of “fighting dirty” in training but is confident of a clean battle when the two men meet in their August 26 superfight.

May weather told repor ters on a conference call on Thursday he believed mixed martial arts star McGregor had used illegal tactics in sparring sessions.

The undefeated former welterweight king, who is coming out of retirement to fight McGregor in Las Vegas, said he had spotted rabbit punches in footage of McGregor’s sparring session with Paulie Malignaggi.

McGregor, who has never fought in a professional boxing contest, appears to floor Malignaggi in the footage.

Mayweather, 40, was unimpressed.

“I had a chance to see it and my thought were, it was interesting,” Mayweather said of McGregor’s Malignaggi knockdown.

“A lot of rabbit punching, a lot of illegal shots, behind the head,” he added.

McGregor has hired veteran referee Joe Cortez during his training camp to help advise on boxing rules and ensure he fights clean.

“He’s had Joe Cortez in his training camp and I’ve still seen him being extremely dirty,” Mayweather said.

Veteran referee Robert Byrd will be responsible for managing the fight and Mayweather is confident he will maintain control of the contest.

Byrd officiated in Mayweather’s 2013 win over Robert Guerrero in Las Vegas.

“I truly believe the referee is going to do a great job,” Mayweather said.

“The referee’s job is to keep the fight clean. He don’t have anything to worry about. I’m looking forward to following the Queensberry rules of boxing,” he added.

Mayweather retired from boxing in 2015 with a perfect 49-0 record to emulate former

heavyweight legend Rocky Marciano. A win against McGregor would see the welterweight become the only man to ever hold a perfect 50-0 record.

Mayweather insisted however that moving clear of Marciano’s historic benchmark was not on his mind.

“Even though this is my 50th fight, this is not my focus,” Mayweather said.

“Rocky Marciano is a legend, he did it his way. I just like to do it the Mayweather way.”

Win or lose, Mayweather is adamant that nothing will be able to tempt him back into the ring following his return against McGregor. He reiterated an earlier statement that this month’s fight will be his last.

“This is my last one. I gave my word to (adviser) Al Haymon, I gave my word to my children, I don’t want to break that,” Mayweather said.

“I’m going to stick to my word—this is going to be my last fight.” AFP

Alora carries PH flag at SEAG opening KUALA LUMPUR— Elaine Kirstie Alora will be at the forefront of the opening parade, bravely carrying the Philippine flag and the hopes of an embattled teammate as the 29th Southeast Asian Games formally opens Saturday at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium Saturday in this bustling Malaysian capital.

Alora was a replacement to fellow Olympian Ian Lariba, who will miss the spectacular display of lights, songs and dances as well as the traditional parade of 11

competing countries as she remains fighting for her life after being diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia early this year.

Joining Alora in leading the large Philippine delegation are chief of mission Cynthia Carrion, Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Jose “Peping” Cojuangco, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) executive director Carlo Abarquez, deputy chief of mission Robert Mananquil and Robert Bachmann along with several athletes,

coaches and officials from archery, athletics, aquatics, taekwondo, netball and sepak takraw, who all vowed to come up with a strong finish to surpass the country’s sixth-place finish in the previous edition of the biennial meet in Singapore in 2015.

It wasn’t Alora’s first time to lead the athletes’ march.

When the country competed in the Olympics in Rio de Janeiro last year, she was also assigned to spearhead the parade in the closing

ceremonies after the original choice failed to make it.

That athlete was her close friend—Lariba.

“Of course, I will be carrying the flag and playing for the country for her. Para sa kanya talaga ito,” said Alora, who arrived Friday, but won’t be seeing action until the second to the final day of the three-week competition.

“I will be fighting on the 29th. But it’s okay. At least we get a good feel of the competition at madami kaming nakakasabay sa training.”

Alyssa Marey Salvador and Ruth Desiree Abiera of the Philippines compete in the finals of the women’s duets technical routine synchronized swimming competition of the 29th Southeast Asian Games Friday at the National Aquatics Center in Kuala Lumpur. The Filipinos scored 53.39 to lose to Miya Yong Hsing and Debbie Soh Li Fei of Singapore (75.17).

Starmalls registers net profit of P985m

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Business

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

IN BRIEF

ILLICIT TRADE RESEARCH.

DBS keeps 6.4% growth forecast

The University of Asia and the Pacific and the Federation of Philippine Industries present the multi-industry illicit trade research study at Century Park Hotel Manila. Shown during the event, coinciding with the general membership meeting of FPI, are (from left) UA&P Center for Food and Agribusiness executive director and project leader Dr. Rolando Dy, FPI president George Chua, Finance Department assistant secretary Mark Joven and FPI chairman Jesus Aranza.

Sonny Espiritu

DOE seeks probe on Malampaya fund use

By Alena Mae S. Flores THE Energy Department seeks an investigation into allegations of P25 billion worth of missing Malampaya fund.

“We collect that money [but] that money is not in our custody...On how the disbursement, the utilization, the DOE has no power to disburse,” Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi said.

The Malampaya fund consists of proceeds from the Malampaya natural gas project in northwest Palawan and other oil and gas producing assets in the country.

Occidental Mindoro Rep. Josephine Ramirez-Sato earlier asked the Bureau of Treasury to account for the alleged P25-billion “missing” funds, citing doubts raised by the Commission on Audit.

COA said the figures did not match those in subsidiary ledgers kept by the Treasury.

“It’s being looked into.

The one allegedly missing, but they cannot disburse the money. There is record of disbursement, but it is not with us,” Cusi said.

Data from the Energy Department showed that collections from the Malampaya fund reached P241.377 billion between January 2002 to June 2017. Of the total amount, P47.746 billion was already disbursed.

Cusi proposed that a part of the Malampaya fund be used for energy projects “to help bring down the tariff, pay for stranded costs and debts so the people no longer have to pay.”

“We want to also use that for energy infrastructure development…We have to develop reliable, secure and sustainable energy supply,” he said.

Energy Undersecretary Felix WIlliam Fuentebella earlier said the department was closely coordinating with Congress on the passage of a law that would allow the department to tap the Malampaya fund.

Peso sinks to 11-year low of 51.49 a dollar T

By Julito G. Rada

he peso sank to a new 11-year low against the US dollar Friday, pulled down by the widening trade deficit and developments overseas, including the possibility of another rate hike by the US Federal Reserve and the terrorist attacks in Barcelona, Spain.

The local currency shed P0.13 to close at 51.49 against the greenback Friday from 51.355 a dollar Thursday. It was the peso’s weakest finish in 11 years, or since it settled at 51.60 a dollar on Aug. 24, 2006.

Total volume turnover rose to $1.006 billion Friday from $688 million Thursday.

“We expect market to trade range with a slight higher bias due to risk-off sentiment in the

market after the terrorist attack in Barcelona,” Security Bank Corp. said in its daily market report.

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Nestor Espenilla Jr., however, downplayed any concerns about the weakening peso, saying the country’s macroeconomic fundamentals remained strong. “[The] peso is market determined. It will move up then

down. It will not free fall… It will take care of itself because the economic fundamentals are strong,” Espenilla told reporters at the sidelines of an event in Mandaluyong City.

Thirteen people were killed and 100 were injured in Spain, when a man drove a van into pedestrians in Barcelona. Later, a second terror attack took place in Cambrils, a coastal town around 120 km from Bacelona.

Espenilla said the peso was capable of correcting itself as the market calmed down and digested the relevant information that was affecting it.

“Moreover, the BSP will always be there strategically if volatility is considered excessive.

We have a huge pile of FX [foreign exchange] reserves to play an effective stabilizing role,” Espenilla said.

He said it would be natural for an emerging economy such as the Philippines to run a current account deficit. “It is natural for it to run moderate current account deficits.

In fact, it is sub-optimal for it to be persistently running current account surpluses,” he said.

Espenilla also mentioned the recent observation by the International Monetary Fund that the Philippine economy was not overheated and was actually doing well.

Espenilla said monetary authorities remained vigilant. “Let us calm down. We are on the right track,” Espenilla said.

The peso became Asia’s worstperforming currency this year.

Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez told Bloomberg TV this week losses were likely temporary as the underlying economy was in a “sweet spot.”

Govt studying conditions of American grant FINANCE Secretary Carlos Dominguez III on Friday welcomed the decision of the United States’ Millennium Challenge Corp. to extend fresh grant to the Philippines, but said the government would examine the conditions associated with the aid.

Dominguez said in a statement the decision of MCC was another confirmation of the Duterte administration’s strong commitment to the rule of law and inclusive growth.

Dominguez said, however, that the government would still go over the conditions set by MCC in approving the millennium challenge compact for the Philippines.

“We welcome the decision of the Millennium Challenge Corp.

to approve a new compact for the Philippine government and thank them for this fresh grant offer . The government under the Duterte administration continues to vigorously implement initiatives that reinforce the Philippines’ commitment to good governance, peace and order and the rule of law,” Dominguez said.

He said MCC’s decision was a testament to the fact that despite the political noise emanating from certain quarters, the country’s development partners recognized the government’s commitment to reduce poverty and make growth inclusive while maintaining peace and order and upholding the rule of law.

“We will look into the condi-

tions of the MCC grant and determine if they are aligned with our priorities,” Dominguez said.

The MCC said on its website that the eligibility of recipientcountries for year 2018 would be based on, among others, their “demonstrated commitment to just and democratic governance, economic freedom and investments in [its] people,” and “the opportunity to reduce poverty and generate economic growth.”

MCC said in a report the Philippines was among the 66 candidate countries for fiscal year 2018 based on their per capita income levels and their eligibility to receive assistance under US law.

The Philippines was awarded a five-year, $434-million package

in 2010. The so-called “compact” ended in May 2016 and the MCC board said the country was eligible for a new package.

MCC in December last year deferred a vote on the reselection of the Philippines for compact development, subject to a further review of concerns around rule of law and civil liberties.

Funds provided in the first compact were used for tax collection reforms at the Bureau of Internal Revenue, 4,000 community development programs under the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Services and the construction of 137 miles of roads and 61 bridges in Samar.

Julito G. Rada

DOT eyes more Chinese tourists with new visa rules

By Othel V. Campos THE Tourism Department said Friday the implementation of the Visa Upon Arrival program is expected to make China as the top source of foreign visitors in the Philippines.

Tourism Secretary Wanda Tulfo-Teo said the favorable action by the Justice Department to a long-standing proposal to ease visa rules and procedures, particularly the VUA policy for Chinese visitors, would increase international visitor arrivals in the country.

Teo pushed for the Justice Department’s approval and implementation of VUA, which she said could be a tool for the country to become a strong competitor in the global tourism industry.

“We also believe this will serve as an incentive to Chinese guests who may be prospective investors wanting to prove that

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SATURDAY, AUGUST 19, 2017

the country is not only a safe haven for tourists but also a lucrative business location, as well,” Teo said.

Data showed that following President Rodrigo Duterte’s state visit to China in midOctober 2016 and the lifting of Beijing’s travel restriction against the Philippines, Chinese arrivals surged more than 37 percent to 675,663 in 2016 from 490,841 in 2015.

The phenomenal increase in Chinese arrivals continued into the first half of 2017, with a growth of 33.4 percent to 454,962 from 340,958 a year ago.

“Accommodating our visiting Chinese friends with a visa grant upon arrival will only help keep the momentum of massive influx of Chinese tourists into the country since the inception of the Duterte administration in July of 2016,” said Teo.

DBS Bank of Singapore kept its 2017 growth forecast for the Philippines at 6.4 percent, after the economy grew 6.5 percent in the second quarter.

“Second-quarter GDP growth came in at 6.5 percent, better than our forecast of 6.2 percent. Government consumption was up 7.1 percent in the quarter, a healthy rebound from a mere 0.1 percent in the first quarter,” the bank said.

Export growth also came in strong at 19.7 percent, just off the multi-year high of 20.3 percent in the preceding quarter. Strong expansion was also seen in both the agriculture and manufacturing sectors (6.3 percent and 7.9 percent, respectively).

DBS said investment growth eased to 9.4 percent in the second quarter, a fairly strong print, but soft when compared to the average 20 percent between March 2015 and March 2017. “While it is clear to us that investment growth cannot be sustained at 20 percent annual pace, the moderation ahead may turn out to be steeper than previously thought. Inventory drawdown has continued and likely to gain momentum going forward, even if the government is committed on its infrastructure overhaul,” it said. Julito G. Rada

NGCP develops Mindanao protocol

NATIONAL Grid Corp. of the Philippines said it developed the Interim Mindanao Dispatch Protocol, paving the way for the successful launch of the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market in the region.

The dispatch protocol was implemented during the transitory period in preparation for the start of WESM’s commercial operations in Mindanao.

The Mindanao grid suffered rotating brownouts due to generation deficiency in the past years. However, the entry of large generators significantly increased supply, now creating a surplus and prompting the extension of WESM operations to Mindanao. WESM Mindanao was officially launched in June with National Grid’s support.

“From its inception to its launch, we are very proud to be a part of this major development in Mindanao power operations. In line with our mandate to provide the best transmission services, we are always eager to support initiatives which will improve the grid’s power situation,” the grid operator said.

Alena Mae S. Flores

Cement importers back DTI’s campaign CEMENT importers expressed their full support to the policy of the Trade Department against the entry of substandard cement in the country, saying these products are bad for business and could negatively affect the infrastructure program of the government.

Philippine Cement Importers Association executive director Dani Enriquez said in a statement the group was a staunch supporter of the government’s efforts on consumer protection.

“The PCIA is categorically against importation of substandard cement. In fact, the PCIA has proposed to take an active part in monitoring and enforcement against substandard cement whether imported or locally manufactured,” Enriquez said.

“We do not want substandard cement coming in the country. It is not only bad for business, it is also bad for the infrastructure programs of President Duterte,” he said.

He said PCIA was strongly proposing that imported cement be tested at the port of loading or origin to know whether it was of good quality, and not before it was shipped to the Philippines.

Julito G. Rada

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Friday, August 18, 2017

F OREIGN E XCHANGE R ATE Currency

TECHNOLUX BUSINESS SERIES.

Technolux holds two successful business series for entrepreneurs and business owners in the food and hospitality industry at Mall of Kitchens in Makati City. The events featured Blanco Cook System, its innovative technology, reliable performance and state-of-the-art features. Shown is Samuel Travis, regional sales director of Blanco Germany, as he discusses the features and benefits of Blanco during the event.

Unit

US Dollar Peso

United States Dollar

1.000000

Japan

Yen

0.009127

51.3010 0.4682

UK

Pound

1.287400

66.0449

Hong Kong

Dollar

0.127825

6.5576

Switzerland

Franc

1.038745

53.2887

Canada

Dollar

0.788830

40.4678

Singapore

Dollar

0.731904

37.5474

Australia

Dollar

0.788400

40.4457

Bahrain

Dinar

2.654985

136.2034

Saudi Arabia

Rial

0.266660

13.6799

Brunei

Dollar

0.729235

37.4105

Indonesia

Rupiah

0.000075

0.0038

Thailand

Baht

0.030075

1.5429

UAE

Dirham

0.272279

13.9682

Euro

Euro

1.172500

60.1504

Korea

Won

0.000876

0.0449

China

Yuan

0.149846

7.6872

India

Rupee

0.015585

0.7995

Malaysia

Ringgit

0.232883

11.9471

New Zealand

Dollar

0.728000

37.3471

Taiwan

Dollar

0.032999

1.6929 Source: PDS Bridge

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SATURDAY, AUGUST 19, 2017 extrastory2000@gmail.com

Market retreats; URC rises S TOCKS fell Friday after a four-day advance, following the movement of Asian markets and Wall Street amid a global selloff after a deadly Barcelona rampage claimed by the Islamic State jihadist group exacerbated mounting fears over White House turmoil.

The Philippine Stock Exchange index, the 30-company benchmark, shed 56 points, or 0.7 percent, to close at 8,016.73, as five of the six major sectors declined.

Despite the loss, the bellwether was still up 17.2 percent since the start of the year.

The heavier index, representing all shares, also tumbled 26 points, or 0.6 percent, to settle at 4,734.84, on a value turn-

over of P5.4 billion. Losers outnumbered gainers, 107 to 74, while 58 issues were unchanged.

Seven of the 20 most active stocks ended in the green, led by Crown Equities Inc. which surged 17 percent to P0.255 and PXP Energy Corp. which jumped 8.3 percent to P3.90.

Food manufacturer Universal Robina Corp. rose 1 percent to P150, while Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co. gained 0.8 percent to P87.80.

In New York, the S&P 500 Index tumbled by its second-biggest drop of the year with financial and technology shares among the worst hit, as news broke of a van ploughing into pedestrians in the Catalan capital, killing 13.

Stocks were initially in the red from rumors Donald Trump’s economic advisor Gary Cohn would resign owing to unhappiness over the US president’s response to a violent rally by racist groups in Charlot-

tesville, although a White House source denied the claims.

Hong Kong led the Asian sell-off Friday with shares down more than one percent in morning trade. The Hang Seng was also dragged lower by market heavyweight Lenovo’s plummeting share price after the Chinese tech giant posted a surprise quarterly loss.

Tokyo was also more than one percent down by the break, as the Nikkei also struggled in the face of the renewed strength of the yen against the greenback.

Shanghai, Sydney and Seoul all fell, just as Asia-Pacific stocks had clawed back much of their losses from last week’s slump over fears of military clashes between North Korea and the US, fuelled by angry threats from both sides.

“Last Thursday’s Korean scare sell-off has now been followed by another significant decline,” said Ric Spooner, an ana-

lyst at CMC Markets in Sydney.

“This could be a more typical situation where volatility creates volatility as pent up profit taking and nervous investors are motivated to act as prices begin to weaken.”

Bourses in Europe closed before the Spanish attack unfolded, and mostly fell on uncertainty following minutes from a European Central Bank meeting highlighting concerns over the rising euro.

Sentiment in the US was also dented after the White House Thursday said Trump had abandoned plans to form an advisory council on infrastructure, worsening business fears he will struggle to enact pledges to boost the economy.

“Diminishing West Wing support from both business and political allies will continue to abrade investors’ confidence in President Trump’s economic agenda,” said Oanda analyst Stephen Innes.

With Bloomberg, AFP

MANILA STANDARD BUSINESS DAILY STOCKS REVIEW THURSDAY, AUGUST 18, 2017

NAME

OPEN

VALUE

NET FOREIGN BUYING/(SELLING), PHP

FINANCIALS 4.55 173,000 59.5 72,720 105 870,240 3.96 2,000 130.2 1,349,710 1.3 59,000 35.2 128,300 15.96 6,000 32.5 857,900 0.68 15,000 915 10 0.69 396,000 87.8 7,700,210 0.96 4,173,000 13.2 12,100 25.5 9,500 61 74,160 239 30 112 70 88.2 200 53 3,320 256 759,480 1,800 1,575 86.4 26,770 1.38 220,000

786,350 4,307,642 91,393,072 7,920 175,758,977 77,700 4,537,460 95,938 27,981,565 9,900 9,150 272,990 672,810,502 4,004,790 159,720 242,250 4,521,553.50 7,210 7,900 17,642 170,310.50 196,061,190 2,834,850 2,313,317.50 306,210

46,200 3,327,641 -33,672,700 -10,814,582 1,081,415 9,611,995 -2,847,231.50 -28,800 -1,174,128.50 -62,861 9,328,268 1,959,736 -

39.05 8.98 0.81 1.37 23 0.237 149 5.66 16.8 31.3 22.2 64 70 1.97 5.4 11.22 10 14.98 12.6 7.16 6.84 17 67 14 12.56 13 1.78 234 3.53 22.8 31.5 18.5 17.78 276.8 0.25 10.6 2.86 7.29 9.51 7.8 10 1.78 11.98 65 6.95 312 4.23 4.15 2.46 12.52 4.57 0.145 1.23 148.4 2.04 32.35 0.99

INDUSTRIAL 39.5 764,100 9.16 1,396,300 0.82 877,000 1.37 435,000 24 98,900 0.244 2,980,000 159 1,390 5.68 1,853,100 16.8 515,700 32.5 828,500 26.8 392,300 64 301,240 70 730 1.97 25,000 5.42 98,500 11.24 20,600 10 3,630,000 15.1 1,506,100 13.3 1,451,100 7.24 643,700 6.9 11,141,500 17.1 3,151,700 67.1 14,570 14.5 54,700 12.56 43,700 13.2 1,316,500 1.84 541,000 235.2 678,970 3.53 5,000 23 11,100 31.6 788,400 18.6 240,100 17.96 2,694,900 277.4 378,180 0.25 85,950,000 10.68 78,500 2.9 8,079,000 7.32 1,394,500 9.53 1,418,500 8.02 47,400 10.02 5,500 1.8 437,000 12 2,360,600 65.4 86,720 7.06 51,300 312 900 4.28 6,090,000 4.25 101,000 2.54 452,000 12.56 271,900 4.58 198,000 0.146 940,000 1.28 191,000 150 1,560,850 2.07 8,535,000 32.8 4,800 1 637,000

30,052,965 12,673,815 713,290 599,650 2,395,050 710,410 219,079 10,552,350 8,678,616 26,369,300 9,943,145 19,279,360 51,823 49,250 533,822 231,624 36,441,864 22,690,698 18,992,684 4,627,819 76,507,733 53,970,456 977,149 766,950 549,492 17,487,048 978,510 159,758,746 17,690 254,600 24,897,225 4,459,652 48,183,220 104,909,460 23,264,600 844,304 23,428,230 10,482,674 13,593,537 379,269 55,170 782,320 28,330,698 5,669,836 363,444 281,980 26,065,170 433,600 1,125,930 3,414,368 907,580 136,880 245,140 234,173,570 17,718,530 155,715 637,850

6,455,140 -129,048 1,380 -3,653,662 564,670 619,560 -229,685 0 198,948 -19,397,844.00 611,880 -48,104 453,936 -22,317,972 -16,762,932 -530,537.50 0 -324,096 1,352,734 -12,450 128,111,144 -41,400 3,427,850 1,974,114 -6,555,884 -1,483,824 -3,681,900 -507,850 4,978,381.00 9,000 -7,955,434 2,814,884.50 283,840 -23,540,000 366,250 -62,560 33,892 74,915,198 1,149,770 126,165 20,790

0.365 74.3 13.88 1.15 7.02 0.315 0.32 908 7.64 15.8 7.75 6.39 0.203 1,180 7.93 72.05 5.08 0.92 7 17.8 0.42 6.74 0.046 2.07 100.5 2.79 834 0.87 1.62 302.6 0.29 0.215 0.233

0.35 73.05 13.06 1.07 7 0.31 0.31 890 7.53 15.3 7.75 6.39 0.2 1,139 7.93 69.5 5 0.89 6.83 17.32 0.42 6.62 0.044 2.06 98.5 2.78 825 0.87 1.57 293 0.28 0.201 0.23

HOLDING FIRMS 0.365 3,410,000 73.2 817,100 13.6 3,360,200 1.15 54,000 7.02 37,500 0.31 800,000 0.32 270,000 900 148,550 7.61 200,700 15.6 11,735,400 7.75 100 6.39 200 0.203 330,000 1,145 137,600 7.93 500 69.5 1,374,320 5 43,000 0.91 785,000 7 336,600 17.34 185,600 0.42 110,000 6.7 11,464,600 0.044 30,500,000 2.07 299,000 99.35 138,130 2.78 2,000 828 153,450 0.87 6,000 1.59 671,000 302.6 14,930 0.29 590,000 0.201 340,000 0.233 870,000

1,212,250 59,944,966.50 45,617,482 58,240 262,604 248,250 84,900 133,826,380 1,524,064 182,694,620 775 1,278 66,150 158,250,155 3,965 96,871,540.50 215,286 704,570 2,337,917 3,221,338 46,200 76,820,288 1,352,600 616,670 13,704,602.50 5,570 127,049,210 5,220 1,062,690 4,496,816 165,800 70,020 201,540

28,800 -20,936,187.50 -31,429,944 3,500 92,478,555 295,133 2,038,518 -775 -69,905,320 -34,471,071.00 -12,144.00 -400,240 -1,640,744 29,803,526 -6,793,970.50 -72,101,255 70,080 -1,314,784 -

5.45 1.32 2.28 0.95 43 3.63 5.07 5.32 0.54 1.35 1.54 0.255 0.5 44.8 0.7 0.161 1.88 1.67

5.36 1.28 2.19 0.9 42.6 3.54 5.01 5.25 0.51 1.31 1.51 0.218 0.49 43.7 0.69 0.152 1.84 1.63

829,043 11,242,960 79,330 4,905,190 113,445,560 9,042,440 11,587,529 27,657 9,444,680 1,373,780 369,770 108,299,630 123,810 16,865,510 1,081,790 202,050 12,801,540 15,256,680

-574,181 -901,760 11,525,670 3,073,370 2,696,114 -1,146,070 -21,420 9,167,590 224,180 -238,900 3,274,550 2,744,320

HIGH

LOW

CLOSE

AG FINANCE 4.48 ASIA UNITED 59.6 BANK PH ISLANDS 106 BDO LEASING 3.96 BDO UNIBANK 130 BRIGHT KINDLE 1.39 CHINABANK 35.5 COL FINANCIAL 15.9 EAST WEST BANK 33 FIRST ABACUS 0.65 MANULIFE 915 MEDCO HLDG 0.69 METROBANK 86.95 NTL REINSURANCE 0.96 PB BANK 13.2 PBCOM 25.5 PHIL NATL BANK 61.15 PHIL STOCK EXCH 241 PHILTRUST 115 PSBANK 88.05 RCBC 50.5 SECURITY BANK 259 SUN LIFE 1,800 UNION BANK 86.4 VANTAGE 1.38

4.62 59.6 106 3.96 130.5 1.39 35.6 16 33 0.68 915 0.69 87.8 1 13.2 25.5 61.2 241 115 88.25 53 261.4 1,800 86.5 1.4

4.46 58.6 104.7 3.96 129.5 1.3 35.2 15.9 32.3 0.65 915 0.68 86.75 0.9 13.2 25.5 60.85 239 112 88.05 50.5 256 1,795 86.4 1.38

ABOITIZ POWER 39.3 AGRINURTURE 9.15 ALLIANCE SELECT 0.82 ALSONS CONS 1.39 ASIABEST GROUP 25.75 BASIC ENERGY 0.24 BOGO MEDELLIN 149 CEMEX HLDG 5.67 CENTURY FOOD 16.82 CIRTEK HLDG 31.7 CNTRL AZUCARERA22.2 CONCEPCION 64 CONCRETE A 71.5 CROWN ASIA 1.97 DAVINCI CAPITAL 5.42 DEL MONTE 11.4 DNL INDUS 10.12 EAGLE CEMENT 15.12 EEI CORP 13.3 EMPERADOR 7.28 ENERGY DEVT 6.87 FIRST GEN 17.14 FIRST PHIL HLDG 67.5 GINEBRA 14.58 HOLCIM 12.62 INTEGRATED MICR 13.82 IONICS 1.83 JOLLIBEE 237.2 MABUHAY VINYL 3.55 MACAY HLDG 22.8 MANILA WATER 31.6 MAXS GROUP 18.5 MEGAWIDE 18.32 MERALCO 277.4 MG HLDG 0.28 PANASONIC 11 PEPSI COLA 2.92 PETROENERGY 7.6 PETRON 9.7 PHIL H2O 7.83 PHINMA 10.1 PHINMA ENERGY 1.79 PHX PETROLEUM 12.06 PILIPINAS SHELL 65.4 PRYCE CORP 6.95 PUREFOODS 313 RFM CORP 4.28 ROXAS HLDG 4.4 SFA SEMICON 2.55 SHAKEYS PIZZA 12.6 SPC POWER 4.62 SWIFT FOODS 0.145 TKC METALS 1.23 UNIV ROBINA 148.5 VITARICH 2.06 VIVANT 32.35 VULCAN INDL 0.99

39.5 9.16 0.83 1.39 25.75 0.244 161 5.73 16.9 33 27.5 64 72 1.97 5.42 11.4 10.14 15.12 13.3 7.5 6.9 17.3 67.5 14.6 12.62 13.82 1.84 237.2 3.55 23 31.7 18.62 18.4 277.8 0.29 11 2.94 7.91 9.7 8.1 10.1 1.8 12.06 65.4 7.14 314.8 4.29 4.4 2.55 12.6 4.62 0.147 1.32 150.7 2.11 33 1.04

ABACORE CAPITAL ABOITIZ EQUITY ALLIANCE GLOBAL ANGLO PHIL HLDG ANSCOR ATN HLDG A ATN HLDG B AYALA CORP COSCO CAPITAL DMCI HLDG FILINVEST DEV FJ PRINCE A FORUM PACIFIC GT CAPITAL HOUSE OF INV JG SUMMIT JOLLIVILLE HLDG LODESTAR LOPEZ HLDG LT GROUP MABUHAY HLDG METRO PAC INV PACIFICA PRIME ORION SAN MIGUEL CORP SEAFRONT RES SM INVESTMENTS SOC RESOURCES SOLID GROUP TOP FRONTIER UNIOIL HLDG WELLEX INDUS ZEUS HLDG

0.365 74.3 13.82 1.08 7 0.31 0.31 908 7.53 15.8 7.75 6.39 0.2 1,170 7.93 71.6 5.06 0.91 6.98 17.38 0.42 6.7 0.045 2.06 100.5 2.79 834 0.87 1.6 302.2 0.28 0.215 0.233

8990 HLDG 5.45 A BROWN 1.31 ARANETA PROP 2.19 ARTHALAND CORP 0.95 AYALA LAND 42.9 BELLE CORP 3.58 CEB LANDMASTERS 5.01 CEBU HLDG 5.32 CENTURY PROP 0.52 CITY AND LAND 1.35 CITYLAND DEVT 1.51 CROWN EQUITIES 0.22 CYBER BAY 0.49 DOUBLEDRAGON 44.5 EMPIRE EAST 0.7 EVER GOTESCO 0.156 FILINVEST LAND 1.85 GLOBAL ESTATE 1.67

VOLUME

HIGH

LOW

CLOSE

VOLUME

VALUE

NET FOREIGN BUYING/(SELLING), PHP

0.99 4.98 0.28 0.56 0.52 4.7 23.85 1.78 3.21 34.9 0.99 7.5 0.86 5.95

0.99 5 0.28 0.56 0.54 4.83 23.85 1.79 3.21 34.9 1.01 7.5 0.89 6

0.96 4.9 0.275 0.53 0.51 4.67 22.85 1.78 3.19 34.4 0.99 7.5 0.86 5.89

0.97 4.92 0.275 0.53 0.53 4.7 22.85 1.78 3.19 34.45 0.99 7.5 0.89 6

119,000 10,547,500 21,960,000 7,035,000 9,994,000 530,000 1,832,900 145,000 52,000 2,809,500 640,000 1,100 57,000 13,697,200

115,820 52,105,943 6,063,300 3,827,240 5,278,540 2,510,150 42,570,490 259,190 166,040 96,956,190 635,780 8,250 49,540 81,693,895

20,364,053 127,000 -28,000 886,980 1,129,760 -22,612,120 32,000 -58,385,600 -3,000 -3,893,405

2GO GROUP 21 ABS CBN 41.85 ACESITE HOTEL 1.6 APC GROUP 0.63 APOLLO GLOBAL 0.04 BERJAYA 5.08 BLOOMBERRY 9.95 BOULEVARD HLDG 0.076 CEBU AIR 101 CHELSEA 10.38 DFNN INC 8.85 FAR EASTERN U 970 GLOBE TELECOM 2,048 GMA NETWORK 6.17 GOLDEN HAVEN 15.98 HARBOR STAR 2.41 IMPERIAL 3.11 INTL CONTAINER 105.3 IPM HLDG 8.65 ISLAND INFO 0.175 ISM COMM 1.37 JACKSTONES 3.01 LBC EXPRESS 15.58 LEISURE AND RES 4.12 LORENZO SHIPPNG 1.59 MACROASIA 11.2 MANILA BULLETIN 0.56 MANILA JOCKEY 2.42 MELCO RESORTS 8.68 METRO RETAIL 4.23 MLA BRDCASTING 20.5 NOW CORP 2.31 PACIFIC ONLINE 11.2 PAL HLDG 5.18 PAXYS 2.87 PHIL SEVEN CORP 177.9 PHILWEB 9.54 PLDT 1,757 PREMIUM LEISURE 1.59 PRMIERE HORIZON 0.4 PUREGOLD 47.95 ROBINSONS RTL 88 SBS PHIL CORP 5.91 SSI GROUP 4.2 STI HLDG 1.4 TRANSPACIFIC BR 1.95 TRAVELLERS 3.47 WATERFRONT 1.29 WILCON DEPOT 8.84

21 41.95 1.7 0.63 0.043 5.11 10 0.076 102.5 10.48 8.93 975 2,048 6.19 16 2.49 3.11 105.6 8.68 0.178 1.37 3.01 15.58 4.35 1.63 11.2 0.57 2.42 8.68 4.23 22 2.32 11.2 5.18 2.87 177.9 9.69 1,777 1.6 0.4 48.2 88.95 6 4.24 1.4 1.95 3.47 1.3 8.95

20.5 41.7 1.6 0.6 0.04 5.08 9.74 0.075 101 10.2 8.46 970 2,024 6.09 15.9 2.41 3.06 104.5 8.6 0.17 1.37 3.01 15.5 4.09 1.53 10.9 0.56 2.31 8.51 4.14 19.7 2.28 11.2 5.1 2.86 176.8 9.4 1,732 1.58 0.4 47.5 87.5 5.91 4.08 1.36 1.95 3.46 1.23 8.79

SERVICES 20.8 58,600 41.75 14,800 1.66 333,000 0.62 5,248,000 0.04 72,200,000 5.1 3,000 9.83 9,617,000 0.076 15,420,000 102.5 221,900 10.26 3,049,200 8.8 475,600 975 420 2,048 26,750 6.15 675,200 15.9 120,200 2.44 576,000 3.06 107,000 105 1,218,020 8.65 329,200 0.177 10,720,000 1.37 1,000 3.01 10,000 15.5 2,300 4.32 2,027,000 1.56 2,679,000 10.94 472,800 0.56 138,000 2.35 84,000 8.6 2,334,000 4.23 1,890,000 21 10,600 2.32 967,000 11.2 10,000 5.1 5,500 2.86 50,000 176.9 70 9.49 983,800 1,732 109,990 1.6 2,574,000 0.4 320,000 48 1,386,400 88.9 153,380 6 26,300 4.22 1,557,000 1.4 14,064,000 1.95 1,000 3.46 197,000 1.24 16,504,000 8.9 7,245,200

1,214,335 618,535 555,900 3,213,310 2,954,600 15,295 94,668,158 1,157,660 22,657,426 31,366,450 4,151,371 407,700 54,482,290 4,151,513 1,920,986 1,410,140 329,320 128,152,238 2,853,530 1,871,690 1,370 30,100 35,730 8,659,290 4,196,090 5,193,174 77,330 197,110 20,032,432 7,937,390 216,570 2,222,730 112,000 28,066 143,030 12,412 9,379,872 193,574,765 4,106,110 128,000 66,509,275 13,607,001 156,470 6,532,050 19,605,420 1,950 681,750 20,713,490 64,419,046

8,225 -114,320 -724,000 5,224,870.00 17,728,078 1,080,630 -1,280,375 -5,981,640 -15,980 -286,370 16,042,957 96,700.00 1,550 2,155,220.00 90,170.00 836,700 -3,365,100 138,330 134,420 -7,075 -1,261,795.00 -17,095,490 705,820 48,000 19,640,315 6,180,038 1,130,360 15,233,730 619,340 142,560 24,960,699

ABRA MINING APEX MINING ATLAS MINING BENGUET B CENTURY PEAK COAL ASIA HLDG DIZON MINES FERRONICKEL GEOGRACE LEPANTO A MANILA MINING A MARCVENTURES NICKEL ASIA NIHAO OMICO CORP ORNTL PENINSULA ORNTL PETROL A ORNTL PETROL B PHILODRILL PHINMA PETRO PX MINING PXP ENERGY SEMIRARA MINING

0.0028 1.65 4.75 1.8 1.23 0.385 8.37 2.49 0.28 0.18 0.01 1.87 5.93 1.88 0.55 1.01 0.011 0.012 0.012 2.55 8.32 3.65 174.7

0.0029 1.66 5.1 1.8 1.23 0.385 8.37 2.51 0.28 0.181 0.011 1.9 6.09 1.89 0.55 1.13 0.012 0.013 0.012 2.6 8.5 3.94 174.9

0.0028 1.63 4.75 1.79 1.2 0.385 8.36 2.45 0.27 0.18 0.01 1.86 5.9 1.84 0.53 1.01 0.011 0.012 0.012 2.5 8.32 3.65 169.1

MINING & OIL 0.0028 63,000,000 1.66 4,108,000 4.9 93,000 1.8 70,000 1.21 1,615,000 0.385 670,000 8.36 300 2.49 3,855,000 0.27 910,000 0.18 2,470,000 0.011 6,000,000 1.88 265,000 6.08 5,987,000 1.88 4,000 0.55 32,000 1.09 3,858,000 0.011 58,900,000 0.012 47,600,000 0.012 119,800,000 2.52 42,000 8.42 13,900 3.9 22,614,000 170 648,620

176,600 6,777,720 449,320 125,830 1,956,970 257,950 2,509 9,613,350 246,050 445,310 60,100 499,210 36,003,942 7,490 17,030 4,183,970 674,000 571,400 1,437,600 106,520 116,553 86,826,030 110,747,996

-24,600 -4,770 -125,830 8,540 0 -726,220 13,707,855 21,500 -12,480 -1,012,370 -11,646,925

ABS HLDG PDR AC PREF B1 ALCO PREF B DD PREF FGEN PREF F GMA HLDG PDR GTCAP PREF A GTCAP PREF B PCOR PREF 2A PF PREF 2 SMC PREF 2B SMC PREF 2C SMC PREF 2E SMC PREF 2G SMC PREF 2H

40.55 524 105.4 105.5 112.1 5.9 1,010 1,015 1,060 1,015 77 81 79 79.9 79.5

41.2 524 105.4 106 112.1 5.9 1,015 1,020 1,060 1,015 77 81 79 79.9 79.5

40.55 524 105.4 105.5 112.1 5.81 1,010 1,015 1,060 1,015 76.95 81 79 79.9 79.45

PREFERRED 41.2 16,800 524 850 105.4 5,000 105.5 7,510 112.1 50 5.84 535,200 1,015 15,010 1,020 1,085 1,060 470 1,015 1,090 77 10,610 81 11,070 79 100 79.9 20 79.5 186,420

686,365 445,400 527,000 792,310 5,605 3,122,169 15,160,150 1,106,625 498,200 1,106,350 816,930 896,670 7,900 1,598 14,820,305

-596,955.00 -2,812,800 15,225 -

LR WARRANT

2.3

2.49

2.29

WARRANTS 2.4 1,026,000

2,464,750

-360,210

3.89 5.34 6.29

3.8 5.02 5.95

SME 3.82 5.2 6.02

683,890 100,915 35,783,800

-8,588,785

121.8

EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS 120.8 121.1 760

92,085

30,275

NAME

OPEN

IRC PROP MEGAWORLD MRC ALLIED PHIL ESTATES PHIL REALTY PRIMEX CORP ROBINSONS LAND ROCKWELL SHANG PROP SM PRIME HLDG STA LUCIA LAND STARMALLS SUNTRUST HOME VISTA LAND

MS

PROPERTY 5.37 154,400 1.28 8,720,000 2.26 36,000 0.92 5,348,000 42.95 2,646,400 3.55 2,542,000 5.02 2,305,700 5.32 5,200 0.52 18,077,000 1.34 1,041,000 1.53 243,000 0.255 443,880,000 0.495 252,000 43.8 383,700 0.7 1,560,000 0.16 1,280,000 1.86 6,890,000 1.64 9,331,000

ITALPINAS PHILAB HLDG XURPAS

3.86 5.02 5.95

FIRST METRO ETF 121.8

TRADING SUMMARY

SHARES

FINANCIAL

18,910,540

INDUSTRIAL

162,020,645

HOLDING FIRMS PROPERTY

69,559,639 574,131,784

SERVICES

186,693,494

MINING & OIL

342,809,698

GRAND TOTAL

1,360,170,988

179,000 19,900 5,845,400

VALUE 2,006.80 (down) 5.67 1,361,276,365.92 FINANCIAL INDUSTRIAL 11,065.96 (up) 6.26 1,145,557,777.334 HOLDING FIRMS 7,831.42 (down) 75.95 981,466,047.45 PROPERTY 3,789.38 (down) 37.42 SERVICES 1,705.39 (down) 6.25 610,573,731.25 MINING & OIL 12,759.15 (down) 105.80 989,487,527.98 PSEI 8,016.73 (down) 56.02 261,370,440.642 All Shares Index 4,734.84 (down) 26.05 5,386,393,544.73 Gainers: 74; Losers: 107; Unchanged: 58; Total: 239

Starmalls registers net profit of P985m

By Jenniffer B. Austria STARMALLS Inc., the listed commercial arm of Vista Land & Lifescapes Inc., said Friday net income in the first half climbed 37 percent to P985 million from P719 million recorded in the same period last year, on double-digit growth in revenues.

Starmalls said in a disclosure to the stock exchange, first-half revenues increased 36 percent to P2.7 billion from a year ago. As a result, earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization grew 43 percent to P1.95 billion.

“We remain optimistic about the retail industry’s outlook for the rest of the year, as we continue to see sustained growth in the disposable income of Filipinos due to sound Philippine macroeconomic fundamentals,” said Starmalls chairman Manuel Villar Jr. “In addition, we are now taking advantage of the synergies that have developed as a result of our integration into Vista Land,” he said.

Starmalls had 17 commercial assets in its portfolio and was continuing to expand its leasable space as of June 30, 2017.

Starmalls president Jerry Navarrete said the company was ramping up its shopping mall expansion and would deliver additional leasable space in the coming years.

The company said it would develop existing commercial land bank and would look at Vista Land’s over 600 hectares of land across the country that are suitable for commercial development.

“The company’s growth rate was robust, as our expansion programs are already contributing to our financial performance in addition to the increased rental revenues from our existing malls brought about by favorable rental reversions and increased occupancy,” Navarrete said.

ABS-CBN contesting Solar’s estafa suit

By Darwin G. Amojelar BROADCAST company ABS-CBN Corp. said Friday the estafa case filed by Solar Entertainment Corp. against its executives has no legal basis.

“The case is related to the civil case for damages filed

by Solar against ABS-CBN in connection with their joint license agreement for the NBA games,” ABS-CBN said.

The case was filed with the Office of the City Prosecutor of Makati City.

“ABS-CBN believes that the criminal complaint, like the civil complaint, has no legal and factual basis, and is being used as a tool for harassment,” it said.

ABS-CBN said it would take appropriate legal action to hold Solar responsible for the unfounded allegation.

Solar has the exclusive rights to air NBA games in the Philippines since 2010.

Solar allowed ABS-CBN in 2014 to be a part of the joint license agreement with NBA for limited airing rights, including the right to air NBA games on its free-TV channels.

Solar stopped its NBA feeds to Sky Cable in April, after several unheeded demand letters and realizing that Sky Cable was intent on not paying.

Cable providers Cignal, GSAT and Dream still carry Solar’s channels.

Home / Design

B3

SATURDAY, AUGUST 19, 2017 Joel D. Lacsamana,, Editor jdlacsamana@gmail.com

Top tips to protect your home against termites

PROTECT THAT INVESTMENT. Creating a “barrier” to prevent termites from entering your home starts from construction, to your

M

humble abode’s yearly maintenance routine.

OST people are unaware that termites cause more damage to structures compared to all calamities combined. The Philippines is a country where termite infestation is common everywhere. Termites are those nasty critters that feed on cellulose materials such as paper and wood.

“I-Solignum mo” For many of us, wood preservative means Solignum. Solignum is recognized as a superbrand and has been in the Philippine market for over 50 years. It has been proven in protecting against termites, wood borers and fungi. Solignum has become a household name; thus we hear people say, “I-Solignum mo” when faced with a termite problem.

To complement Solignum, it is likewise important to apply a soil termiticide such as Soilguard. Termites come from the soil, and so it is a must to create a “barrier” to prevent termites from entering your home. Termites that come in contact with soil treated with Soilguard are killed through contact, inges-

tion or inhalation of the active ingredient; thereby providing protection from the entry of termites.

Waterproofing as a lifesaver If your house has poor waterproofing, “maps” will appear in your house’s concrete surfaces, indicating leaks. This ruins your investment as it can damage not only your appliances and furniture but also the structure itself. In some cases, homeowners suddenly find a pool in their basement, where there used to be none. Truth be told, some contractors deliberately try to use inferior waterproofing products just to save costs and thereby increase their profits.

Contractors have been using Super Thoroseal waterproofing for a long time.

A cement-based product , it behaves in the same manner as the concrete surface especially with regard to how it reacts to intense heat and rain. It’s also easy to apply: just mix it with water and it can be painted over concrete just like how you do it for ordinary paint.

If you have a concrete balcony, canopy or roof deck, you must use a flexible type of waterproofing because these areas are typically prone to shaking or movement. For this, you should use Optimum Flex. What is good about Optimum Flex is that it ensures an error-free mix. Poor waterproofing usually happens because of wrong application

and incorrect measurements of the product.

Optimum Flex is a flexible waterproofing membrane which is composed of two parts: a liquid component similar to glue which our kids use in school, and a powder component which is similar to cement. You mix the two parts together and you’re ready to apply it.

There is no need for special equipment.

Roof leaks and home pests For protection from roof leaks, we need to ensure that our roof is free from debris such as fallen leaves, stones and dirt. We also need to check cracks and holes. For this, there is Sureseal “Iwas Crack” elastomeric sealant which is designed to be elastic and has strong adhesion to surfaces like GI sheets and PVC pipes. Sureseal is also toluene-free, which means it has no addicting smell unlike other elastomeric sealants in the market.

Lastly, your house needs to be protected against home pests, especially if you have small children. There is an aerosol multiinsect killer called Zap. Zap offers powerful knockdown without the irritating smell, providing protection from dengue-carrying mosquitoes. For your problem with rats, there’s a bait called Klerat which is proven to eliminate these horrific creatures in a single feed. For roaches and ants, there is Optigard Roach and Ant Bait.

Keep these products in mind to help preserve, and maintain your homes.

Mexican students visit PH cemex plant CEMEX Philippines recently held the CEMEX ‘Si Mento at Ako’ program, a guided tour around CEMEX cement plant operations.

Visiting students from Tecnológico de Monterrey were toured around the Solid Cement Plant in Antipolo City as part of their Programa de Liderazgo Empresarial Internacional (PLEI) learning tour.

PLEI organizes international academic-commercial missions to encourage personal and professional integration of future leaders and learning from Mexican enterprises.

With its roots going back to Mexico, CEMEX Philippines was chosen to be part of the PLEI Asia tour.

During the plant tour, the students learned the different stages of cement-making using equipment such as the crusher, raw mill, kiln, and finish mill, among others. Plant initiatives, innovations, and best practices in cement technology were likewise showcased to give the youth delegates a better appreciation of how building solutions can be produced and delivered safely, and sustainably.

MPIC inks

bulk water deal with CDO METROPAC Water Investments Corporation, a whollyowned subsidiary of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC), recently signed a joint venture agreement with the Cagayan de Oro Water District (COWD) to undertake the supply of bulk treated water to address the increasing demand of Cagayan de Oro City.

The project includes the building of new water transmission lines, rehabilitation of the Camaman-an reservoir, and delivery of bulk treated water to serve the city’s western side, which currently uses deep wells for its water supply.

At the signing, which was held at the Makati Shangri-La Hotel, were (from left, Ramoncito S. Fernandez, Maynilad CEO; Jose Ma. K. Lim, MPIC CEO; Atty. Lorenzo R. Rogero, Metro Pacific Water president; Oscar S. Moreno, CDO city mayor; Manuel V. Pangilinan, MPIC chairman; and Engineer Rachel M. Beja, COWD general manager.

ENERGY SAVINGS FOR SMES. Toshiba SPI recently unveiled an air conditioning solution that offers a combination of part-load energy efficiency, reliability, and tolerance to wide power fluctuations. The solution translates to energy savings due to a part-load efficiency of 20.8 kJ/ kW-hr. It uses twin rotary compressors that offer an energy efficiency ratio (EER) on part-load. Toshiba SPI is ideal for convenience stores, small offices, fast food chains, and banks, which run long hours throughout the day. “Wide power fluctuations are concerns commonly faced by businesses in provinces, and Toshiba SPI’s reliability is ideal to ensure minimal downtimes,” said Rajan Komarasu, group director of Concepcion Building and Industrial Solutions. “After a blackout, Toshiba SPI has a feature that will restart the unit at its settings just before the power went out. “

If you build it, they will come SEMIRARA and Mining Power Corporation (SMPC) recently spent some P100 million to build 200 houses for its new cadet engineers and foremen in Semirara Island, Antique Province.

These are among the 387 additional personnel hired by SMPC to beef up the company’s mine expansion plans. “Since May last year, we have turned over 84 houses to our employees.

We expect to complete the remaining 116 units by the end of the year,” said SMPC president and

COO Victor A. Consunji. SMPC has built nearly 1,500 housing units for its employees to date. Each house has a total floor area of 43 square meters, and over 250 square meters of available land for backyard vegetable gardening.

SMPC also extends power and water subsidies to its mine site employees.

Qualified dependents of employees have access to free basic education (K2), and vocational training.

Primary medical and dental services are likewise provided to mine site workers and their dependents.

Trucks &Buses

Dino Ray Directo III, Editor

B4

SATURDAY, AUGUST 19, 2017

Tata

strengthens domestic presence

Text and photos by Dino Ray V. Directo III

Pilipinas Taj and Tata India executives came in full force for the relaunch of Tata.

I

The heavy duty Primo is the flagship of Tata’s truck fleet .

‘Manila-proof’ your ride

Cinematic audio and video system entertains the owner even during heavy traffic.

UNVEILED early this year at the Manila International Autoshow, Hyundai’s H350 is a luxury 14-seater van that aims to lock horns with the Mercedes Benz Sprinter and the Volkswagen Crafter. Initially developed by Hyundai as its first LCV for the European market which is largely based on a flexible platform designed to support three body styles; a cargo van, flatbed truck and a minibus, which is the one available in the local market. The exterior styling borrows Hyundai’s design philosophy, featuring a hexagonal grille that flows seamlessly into wraparound headlights.

There are LED daytime running lights as well, plus sculpted flanks designed to segment the van’s high-rising side panels. Inside, the three-seat front cabin layout is paired to a multifunction, four-spoke steering wheel, with a large center console that emphasizes the car-like pretensions of this massive vehicle.

Now, if you are the King of custom rides like Atoy Llave, the man behind ‘Manila Proofed”, having a stock H350 just won’t cut it. “This mini bus is perfect for the mobile home concept,” says Llave

who worked on this customized H350.

Owned by celebrity Kim Chiu, this H350 underwent an extensive interior modification process that took 30 days to complete.

According to Llave, the planning process alone and the drafting of designs took him a week to highlight the wish list of Chiu, who is a regular customer of Atoy’s custom shop along West Avenue in Quezon City. “This is her second vehicle which I customized for her,” adds Atoy.

The term “Manila proofed” was borne out of the frustration with Metro Manila traffic. For daily commuters, going to work is a daily ordeal that will really test one’s patience and fortitude. “What it really means is that I will customize your interiors for it to comfortable and pleasant to the point that the owner of a Manila Proofed vehicle will not be bothered by the chaos of rush hour traffic. I will transform your mini bus or van into a mobile home/ office on wheels,” reveals Atoy. Established in 2008, the King of custom rides has transformed countless vans and mini buses of celebrities, politicians and businessmen who want to travel in comfort

and style. “My biggest break is when Kris Aquino commissioned me to customize her Hyundai bus into a mobile home. I have done countless custom jobs for her and I owe her a lot,” says Atoy who has also ‘Manila Proofed” the vans of Batangas Governor and legendary actress Vilma Santos and power broker Chavit Singson.

Kim Chiu’s H350 is like a hotel room on wheels. The whole interior was ripped out and replaced with comfort features and amenities fit for a celebrity. The rear boasts of a three Captain’s chairs and a plush five feet and eight inches sofa bed for Chiu. It also has a Focal audio and video cinematic system that enables the star to watch her favorite movies while in traffic or during breaks from movie shoots. “Its really what I wish for, everything I require was incorporated into the design of my H350. I love the curtains which is very important for my privacy,” relates Chiu.

Using lightweight and composite materials, Atoy no longer tweaks the suspension because most mini buses were built to carry heavy loads. For vans such as the Toyota Grandia, a suspension replacement is required to make the ride more comfortable. “I replace the stock shock absorbers with specially designed Bilstein springs which I requested to be developed for my Manila Proofed vehicles,” he adds.

At present, Atoy’s custom shop is a beehive of activity with 20 custom mini buses and vans being worked on six days a week. Plans are in the pipeline for a custom van with a mobile gym and the King of custom is currently working on a design to manufacture an affordable wheelchair lift system. “The price for a wheelchair lift system is P500k and my design will hopefully bring it down to below P100k,” says the man, who has remained humble despite his popularity.

Dino Ray V. Directo III

N its bid to fortify its presence in the highly competitive commercial vehicle segment, Pilipinas Taj Autogroup, distributor of Tata commercial vehicles in the country, recently relaunched the brand to stake its claim in the local market. Attending the grand event were Pilipinas Taj executives led by Jon Fernandez, President and newly minted Vice President and GM Art Balmadrid.

“We, at Pilipinas Taj Autogroup, Inc., are proud to partner with Tata Motors to offer customers with sturdy and reliable vehicles. We are looking forward to this new opportunity and are committed to catering to the commercial vehicle market with India’s largest and most trusted automobile brand here in the Philippines. We will closely work with Tata Motors to ensure customers here get the finest vehicles and services that not only match their requirements but also their business needs,” states Fernandez.

As India’s largest commercial vehicle manufacturer and one of the World’s top ten truck manufacturers, Tata aims to make headway in the Philippines market through a distribution agreement with local partners. Through this partnership, Tata Motors will commence the supply of its commercial vehicle brands –the Tata Prima Range of Tractor Trailers and Tippers, the LPT range of Light, Medium and Heavy Trucks, SFC 407, and the Mini Trucks range of Ace and Super Ace. Aside from the Philippines, Tata Motors has a strong foothold in other Southeast Asian countries such as Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia and Thailand, with manufacturing facilities in Vietnam, Thailand and Malaysia. ,“Philippines is one of our key markets in South-East Asia and we are delighted to be a part ofone of the fastest growing ASEAN nations. With years of experience in the commercial vehicle business, Tata Motors has analyzed and understood our customers well and are dedicated to providing them with best-in-class products and services. We are confident that through our trusted partnership with Pilipinas Taj Autogroup, Inc., we will be successful in establishing a longterm relationship with our customers,” says

Rudrarup Maitra, Head (International Business), Commercial Vehicles, Tata Motors.

Tata Motors entered the domestic market in 2014 with compact sedans and small commercial vehicles. Their fuel efficient diesel engines, build quality and low cost pricing appealed to the target market and now, Tata Ph is geared towards strengthening their presence with the introduction of their complete range of commercial vehicles which include the New Prima Heavy truck platform, an entire range of Heavy Intermediate and Light Commercial Vehicles, Mini Trucks, Pickups and Buses. Pilipinas Taj Autogroup, Inc., is an automotive distributor composed of individuals from a diverse range of industries, with known expertise in the area of insurance, automotive and its allied industries, consumer retail and service, and finance. Armed with a collective knowledge and understanding of the Filipino consumer to confidently build the local business through brand building, marketing, promotions, dealer network development, financing, and customer service and satisfaction.

Tata Motors Limited, a USD 42 billion organization, is a leading global automobile manufacturer of cars, utility vehicles, buses, trucks, and defense vehicles. As India’s largest automobile company and part of the USD 100 billion Tata group, Tata Motors has operations in the UK, South Korea, Thailand, South Africa, and Indonesia through a strong global network of 76 subsidiary and associate companies, including Jaguar &Land Rover in the UK and Tata Daewoo in South Korea. In India, Tata Motors has an industrial joint venture with Fiat. Engaged in engineering and automotive solutions, with a focus on future-readiness and a pipeline of tech-enabled products, Tata Motors is India’s market leader in commercial vehicles and among the top in passenger vehicles with 9 million vehicles on Indian roads. The company’s innovation efforts are focused on developing auto technologies that are sustainable as well as suited. With design and R&D centers located in India, the UK, Italy, and Korea, Tata Motors strives to pioneer new products that fire the imagination of GenNext customers. Abroad, Tata Motors cars, buses, and trucks are being marketed in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, South Asia, South East Asia, South America, Australia, CIS, and Russia.

Drive safe with Autokontrol With the recent accidents caused by speeding trucks and buses which have killed many lives, the commuting public demands more protection and safety from bus/ truck fleet operators. Despite an existing law, R.A. No. 10916, otherwise known as the Road Speed Limiter Act of 2016”, the MMDA reports that 10 bus related accidents occur daily.

In this regard, Pioneer Truck Parts and Equipment Corpora-

tion, local distributors of Autokontrol of UK, is a company on a mission of public safety. Developed in 1980, Autokontrol is an electronic control device that limits and controls a vehicle’s top speed. Aside from improving driver behavior and vehicle preservation, this device also improves fuel consumption, emissions and is guaranteed to cut maintenance costs of fleet owners. “The ECU is connect-

ed to a speed signal (electronic speedometer, ABS or mechanical sensor) and receives frequency signals while the vehicle is moving. At a pre set frequency, say 80kph, the ECU transmits a signal to the engine management system which then holds the vehicle’s speed. The operator/ owner can pre set the maximum speed of the truck or van as he wishes,” explains Benedict Go of Pioneer Corporation. The system

operates by way of drive by wire or a romatic speed limiter for vehicles without an ECU. Autokontrol is a Romatic Speed Control System designed and developed since 1980 and currently used in Europe, Middle East and Asia as a standard equipment for truck, bus and commercial vehicle fleet operations. The system have received numerous approvals from truck manufacturing such as Toyota,

Mitsubishi, Mercedes Benz, Isuzu, Leyland, DAF, GM General Motors, Peugeot, Renault, FUSO, Land Rover, ERF, and approval from the British Ministry of Defence for Land Rover and Pinzgauer Vehicles.

For details on how to improve safety and fleet maintenance costs, call 713-1998/788-2190 or visit the Pioneer Trucks showroom along 341 G. Araneta Avenue, Bgy. Santol, Quezon City.

LGUs

Binay says Makatizen Card out by yearend

LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS

By Joel E. Zurbano THE city government of Makati is set to distribute before the end of the year the Makatizen Card, a multi-purpose card that can be used by half a million residents and city hall employees for official, personal and financial transactions.

Mayor Abigail Binay announced this during a talk with local chief executives and members of the business sector at the 5th Regional Competitiveness Summit and Awards Ceremony at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City.

She revealed that the cutting-edge program is being implemented in all barangays of Makati.

“To date, the registration of city government employees and eligible Makati-based national government workers is well underway. We have also started to roll out the Makatizen Universal Card System to the city’s 33 barangays, with the goal of registering around 300,000 residents by the end of the year,” Binay said.

The mayor presented the features, advantages, and benefits of Makati’s unified ID card to fellow mayors, vice mayors and key officials from 1,487 cities and municipalities from all over the country.

“The Makatizen Card project represents this year’s theme: Technology and Innovation is Key to Competitiveness. It is not only a financially inclusive ecosystem that creates a digitally connected citizenry, it also takes the government— including all its services and processes―online,” she added.

The Card is a public private partnership project of Makati and G-Xchange and iBayad Online Ventures, Inc. It is a comprehensive universal card system that offers residents, students and city government employees expanded and improved access to government services.

The card allows recipients to receive cash allowances, stipends, and other cash benefits, including those provided under the Makati Health Program (Yellow Card), Senior Citizens program (Blu Card), PWD card and Solo Parent Card, among others.

Jimbo Owen Gulle, Editor Roger M. Garcia, Assistant Editor jimbo.gulle@gmail.com mslocalgov@gmail.com SATURDAY, AUGUST 19, 2017

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Erap to boost DARE program F

By Bill Casas

OLLOWING a rash of deaths across Metro Manila and Bulacan in the aftermath of heightened police operations against illegal drugs, Manila Mayor Joseph “Erap” Estrada on Friday vowed to strengthen the Drug Abuse Resistance Education or DARE program to keep the youth away from the drug menace.

At least nine more drug suspects died after encounters with police operatives from 7 a.m. Thursday to 7 a.m. Friday morning, bringing the death toll of the so-called “one-time, big-time operation” on illegal drugs to 34.

Nine firearms and 31 sachets

of shabu were also confiscated from the suspects in Manila.

In other raids, 30 other persons facing various criminal offenses were arrested and an additional 45 sachets of shabu were seized.

The drug menace and criminality, Estrada said, remain as

serious threats to the stability of the country and of the City of Manila, as evidenced by the rising number of suspects neutralized and arrested by the Manila Police District in its continuing anti-crime sweep in the nation’s capital since Wednesday.

“All those deaths could have been prevented had we properly educated those suspects against the evils of drugs and crimes when they were young,” Estrada said, admitting that it pains him that the suspects seemingly chose to fight it out with the lawmen.

“This is another reason we have to further strengthen the implementation of our DARE program. We don’t want any more bloodshed if we could help

it,” Estrada pointed out.

Originally from the United States, DARE is a classroom instruction program that taps active duty police officers and soldiers to teach Grades 5 and 6 students good decision-making skills to keep them away from drugs and other vices.

Estrada brought the program to the Philippines in 1993, and eventually to the City of Manila, when he was Vice President and head of the Presidential AntiCrime Commission.

Some 1.5 million schoolchildren across the country have so far graduated from the short course.

Estrada is chairman of DARE Philippines, Inc., a privately funded organization that over-

sees the implementation of the program, including the training of policemen and soldiers to become DARE instructors.

During a 24-hour operation that began Wednesday night, MPD policemen killed 25 crime suspects―which at the time was the biggest number of drug suspects killed by police in a single day in the government’s increasingly bloody war against the menace.

Police arrested 166 others, 48 for various criminal offenses and 118 detained for violations of different city ordinances, during the operation.

The simultaneous anti-criminality operations were carried out in Sta. Cruz, Sampaloc, Malate, Tondo, and Abad Santos Avenue.

SISTER CITIES. Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada (second from left) and Bacoor City Mayor Lani Mercado (second from right) sign a city sisterhood agreement on Wednesday at the Manila City Hall. The pact formally strengthens the economic, cultural and political ties between the two urbanized cities.

Lantuds deny having guns, Cafgu ‘private army’ Onyx bats ELEANOR Dimaporo Lantud on Friday denied that neither she nor her husband, Mayor Lacson Lantud of Pantao Ragat, Lanao del Norte, maintained a private army and kept high-powered weapons and explosives in their house.

Lantud made the statement in reaction to a recent privilege speech in Congress by Rep. Mohamad Khalid Dimaporo of Lanao del Norte’s first district, who recalled a police raid on the Lantud residence before the 2013

elections. Eleanor was mayor of Pantao Ragat at the time.

Operatives of the Joint Peace Security Control Center and the Philippine National Police seized a cache of high-powered guns and rifles, explosives and ammunitions.

Aside from their apparent violation of the election gun ban, Mrs. Lantud and her husband, who was then vice mayor, were also charged with illegal possession of firearms.

Rep. Dimaporo also pointed out that Lacson Lantud used the local Citizens Armed Forces Geographical Unit or Cafgu as a private army. He also questioned why the case against the Lantuds has not moved, four years after it was filed with the Department of Justice.

Eleanor Lantud, however, insisted the charges were exaggerated.

“The weapons and ammunition were never ours. They were planted,” she maintained.

Mrs. Lantud claimed that many of the armaments in their house were harmless guns and rifles that belonged to her sons’ paintball team. She added that even the Dimaporos—her relatives—attended those paintball sporting events.

Mrs. Lantud stressed that her husband never had a private army, saying that since the government checkpoint was near their residence, soldiers often deposited their arms and ammunition

SMFI helps improve Lemery health center LEMERY, Batangas―The Lemery Municipal Health Center, which caters to 46 barangays with a total population of 93,157, has been improved by the SM Foundation and officially turned over to local government officials and its health officials.

Considered a “mother center,” the health center here serves around 150 patients a day.

Aside from its current PhilHealth accreditation for Out-patient Benefit Package (OPB) and Tubercolosis-Directly Observed Treatment Strategy (TB-DOTS), the center now has an Animal Bite Treatment Center, a Cold Chain Storage Room for vaccines, and a Medicine Storage Area.

The Pharmacy has medicines neatly tucked and displayed in cubicles, making it easy for the center’s Pharmacist to identify medicines that are given to patients after diagnosis.

These new features of the center are new requirements of

PhilHealth for its accreditation.

The center also includes the Felicidad Sy Wellness Center for Children and the Elderly, a reception area, pre-natal and breastfeeding room, conference room, doctors’ rooms, consultation area, laboratory, TB-Dots Room, and a new comfort room for persons with disabilities.

The Health Center―the 34th so far improved by SM Foundation― sits on an 800 sq. meter property donated by the International Bank of Rural Development in 1975, during the Marcos administration.

According to Leandro de Ramos, Public Health nurse of the Center for the past 12 years, upper respiratory diseases and diarrhea are the most common cases treated in Lemery. In serious cases, patients are referred to the Provincial Hospital in Barangay Palanos.

The Center has a municipal health doctor and a dentist, with

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The refurbished Lemery Municipal Health Center now includes the Felicidad Sy Wellness Center for Children and the Elderly, a wellstocked pharmacy (inset) a reception area, pre-natal and breastfeeding room, conference room, doctors’ rooms, consultation area, laboratory, TB-Dots Room, and a new comfort room for persons with disabilities.

at their home when they went off duty. She said soldiers in the provinces often made a business out of their weapons by selling them.

“My husband, Lacson, is a moral person. He doesn’t like it when he sees the Cafgu sell or pawn their arms to make money,” she said.

Lantud said the Dimaporo clan and the Lantuds have a longstanding rift over principles, saying the Dimaporos “have been smearing their reputation.”

for better consumer protection

By Rio N. Araja DISTRICT 1 Councilor Peter Anthony “Onyx” Crisologo on Friday called on his fellow Quezon City lawmakers to back his proposal to protect consumers rights.

He filed Proposed Ordinance 20CC-165 to give Republic Act 7349 or the Consumer Act of the Philippines more teeth.

“As much as possible, we would want to guarantee the protection of the buying public from unscrupulous traders,” Crisologo told the Manila Standard.

“Every retail establishment which registered and doing business in Quezon City must place written notice of its return/exchange policy conspicuously inside the establishment or at its entrance,” he said.

The notice must be made in clear language to ensure that the consumer can understand such notice can be easily seen and read, the councilor added.

“Whereas, some business establishments as a business practice already allow purchasers to return items bought from their stores within seven days purchase, and thus strengthening such business practice into law,” the measure read.

Crisologo said any commercial establishment must inform consumers of their rights as buyers and protect them from unscrupulous retailers who sell defective, broken, and misleading items.

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LGUs

SATURDAY, AUGUST 19, 2017

Bicol, Albay ready for Asean confab

By Manilyn B. Ugalde

L

EGAZPI CITY—The Department of Public Works and Highways and the Philippine National Police in Bicol Region said all is set for Albay province to host a series of meetings of the 2017 Association of Southeast Asian Nations Conference.

Scheduled from Tuesday to Sunday next week, the Asean meeting will be held at the Misibis Bay Beach Resort.

It is the second time the Bi-

col region and Albay is slated to host foreign dignitaries, but the first time to stage it successfully, weather permitting.

The first opportunity came in

2015, when Manila was the host of the Asean Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit. Thengovernor Joey Salceda lobbied hard for Albay and Bicol to host part of the Apec meetings, but inclement weather forced Malacañang to abort the plans just three days before schedule.

“We hope the Asean Conference of delegates in Albay would push through, barring another unforeseen event,” said Salceda who is now the congressman of the province’s second district.

Misibis Resort is on Cagraray Island off Bacacay town in the

first district. Most of the delegates are expected to arrive via airplane at the international airport in this city.

DPWH Regional Director Danilo Versola met with 16 district engineers and maintenance officials to ensure the roads are clean and ready, complete with traffic signages amid the massive road widening projects here.

Many are concerned with the severe traffic congestion near the Legazpi airport and the Daraga section to Camalig town in the second district, which forms part of the Maharlika Highway.

Amid the road widening projects here, the PNP reported 7,427 vehicular accidents in Albay alone from 2015 to 2016.

Last year, the province reported 3,863 accidents, said Albay police spokesman Senior Police Inspector Art Gomez.

Still, the security preparations for the Asean delegates are complete, said Bicol police regional director Chief Supt. Wilfredo Gardiola.

The DPWH is hoping traffic in the first district of Albay is all cleared with the simultaneous construction and widening of a dozen major bridges along

the 35-kilometer route passing the towns of Sto. Domingo, Bacacay, Malilipot, Tabaco City, Malinao and Tiwi.

Versola has urged the three Albay district engineers to coordinate closely with local authorities to see to it that during the Asean Conference the roads are free from solar drying of palay and other agricultural products, which the first district is most noted for. Some residents and traders protect these harvests with big stones, blocking sizable parts of the roads, the DPWH director said.

Miner’s scholars finish courses

By Ben Moses Ebreo QUEZON, Nueva Vizcaya— Three scholars of a mining firm here have recently earned their college degrees.

Peter Storey, FCF Minerals Corp. general manager for operations, said the new graduates are Joyce Dulnuan and Michele Garcia, both graduating with degrees in Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering at the Nueva Vizcaya State University, and Rea Maye Leslie Mejares, with a degree in Bachelor of Science in Geology from Adamson University.

Garcia and Dulnuan hail from barangays Boliwao and Runruno in this town, respectively, while Mejares is a native of barangay Domang in Dupax del Norte town.

Storey said the new graduates are now in Manila to prepare for their board examination in November.

The three are among the 24 college students being supported by FCF Minerals’ scholarship program.

The program is implemented by the firm under its Geosciences Program, a mandate of the company pursuant to the Mining Act of 1995.

Administrative Order 2010-21 of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources requires mining firms to provide assistance to poor but deserving students in pursuing their college education, preferably along the geosciences courses.

APPRECIATION. Mayor Manuel B. Alvarez of Rosario, Batangas (standing, center) and Batangas Provincial Director Senior Supt. Randy Peralta (standing right) receive a token from Rosario Chief of Police Mary Crystal Peralta (standing left) during the awarding of certificates of recognition and appreciation to deserving personnel of the Rosario Police Station. Inset is Chief Supt. Ma. O R. Aplasca, head of the Calabarzon Regional Police. Roy Tomandao

4 chiefs of police sacked for gambling Aytas

By Roy Tomandao CAMP VICENTE LIM, Laguna —Four chiefs of police in the Calabarzon region were relieved from their posts for failing to stop gambling on illegal numbers games in their areas, the regional police office said Friday.

Greg R. Davis, Esq. - SBN 014387 DAVIS FAAS BLASE, PLLC 11111 North Scottsdale Road, Suite 225 Scottsdale, AZ 85254 Phone: 602.279.1900 Fax: 602.279.1920 E-Mail: greg.davis@DFBLawyers.com Website: www.DFBLawyers.com Attorney for Petitioner IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF ARIZONA IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF MARICOPA In Re The Matter of: HAZEL FERNANDEZ SHINYO,

Case No.: FN2017-052576 SUMMONS (Domestic Relations)

Two of the officers came from Batangas, as Supt. Carlos Barde was relieved as Lipa City Chief of Police and Supt. Geovanny Emerick A. Sibalo from the Sto. Tomas Municipal Police Station.

In Laguna, Supt. Ronan Claravall of the San Pablo City Police Station was dismissed along with Supt. Zeric Soriano of the San Pedro Municipal Police Station.

The firings were in line with the orders of Philippine National Police Chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa to relieve unit commanders across the country if after 15 days they fail to stop illegal numbers games in their

areas of responsibility.

The relieved officers are now at the Provincial Personnel Holding and Accounting Unit in their respective Police Provincial Offices, and will face administrative proceedings to assess the extent of their liabilities, the Police Regional Office 4A said in a statement.

Even before Dela Rosa’s directive, Police Regional Director Chief Supt. Ma. O Aplasca ordered an all-out war against illegal gambling, and directed his men to clear their areas of all forms of unlawful number games.

“The day I assumed the position as Calabarzon’s Regional Director, I

have been very vocal on my desire to eradicate illegal number games in the region,” Aplasca said.

“Prior to the directive of the Chief PNP, we have started this campaign and we are progressively gaining positive results.

Despite our reminders, unfortunately there are still chiefs of police who fell short of the directive,” he added.

The war on anti-illegal gambling is one of the priorities of the present administration, and under Executive Order No. 13, the PNP and other concerned agencies are tasked to work together in curbing illegal gambling.

Petitioner, vs.

RAFAEL C. CANIEZO, Respondent WARNING: This is an official document from the court that affects your rights. Read this carefully. If you do not understand it, contact a lawyer for help.

FROM THE STATE OF ARIZONA TO: Rafael C. Caniezo 1.

A lawsuit has been filed against you. A copy of the lawsuit and other court papers are served on you with this “Summons”.

2.

If you do not want a judgment or order taken against you without your input, you must file an “Answer” or a “Response” in writing with the court, and pay the filing fee. If you do not file an “Answer” or “Response” the other party may be given the relief requested in his/her Petition or Complaint. To file your “Answer” or “Response” take, or send, the “Answer” or “Response” to the Office of the Clerk of the Superior Court, 201 West Jefferson Street, Phoenix, Arizona 85003-2205 or the Office of the Clerk of the Superior Court, 222 East Javelina Drive, Mesa, Arizona 85210-6201 or Office of the Clerk of Superior Court, 18380 North 40th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85032, or Office of the Clerk of Superior Court, 14264 W. Tierra Buena Lane, Surprise, Arizona, 85374. Mail a copy of your “Response” or “Answer” to the other party at the address listed on the top of this Summons.

3.

If this “Summons” and the other court papers were served on you by a registered process server or the Sheriff, within the State of Arizona, your “Response” or “Answer” must be filed within TWENTY (20) CALENDAR DAYS from the date you were served, not counting the day you were served. If this “Summons” and the other papers were served on you by a registered process server or the Sheriff outside the State of Arizona, your Response must be flied within THIRTY (30) CALENDAR DAYS from the date you were served, not counting the day you were served. Service by a registered process server or the Sheriff is complete when made. Service by Publication is complete thirty (30) days after the date of the first publication.

4.

You can get a copy of the court papers filed in this case from the Petitioner at the address at the top of this paper, or from the Clerk of the Superior Court at the address listed in Paragraph 2 above.

5.

Requests for reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities must be made to the office of the judge or commissioner assigned to the case, at least five (5) days before your scheduled court date.

6.

Either party to this action may file in the Conciliation Court a petition invoking the jurisdiction of the Court for the purpose of preserving the marriage by effecting conciliation between the parties.

7.

The name and address of your spouse’s attorney is; Greg R. Davis, Esq. - SBN 014387 Davis Faas Blase, PLLC 11111 North Scottsdale Road, Suite 225 Scottsdale, AZ 85254 Phone: 602.279.1900 SIGNED AND SEALED this date: _________________________ Clerk of the Superior Court By:_________________________ Deputy Clerk

Greg R. Davis, Esq. - SBN 014387 DAVIS FAAS BLASE, PLLC 11111 North Scottsdale Road, Suite 225 Scottsdale, AZ 85254 Phone: 602.279.1900 Fax: 602.279.1920 4 E-Mail: greg.davis@DFBLawyers.com Website: www.DFBLawyers.com Attorney for Petitioner IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF ARIZONA IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF MARICOPA Case No.: FN2017-052576 In Re The Matter of: HAZEL FERNANDEZ SHINYO, Petitioner, ORDER FOR ALTERNATIVE SERVICE vs.

RAFAEL C. CANIEZO, Respondent.

(Assigned to Hon. Jennifer Ryan-Touhill)

BASED UPON Petitioner’s Motion for Alternative Service good cause appearing and notice having been given, IT IS HEREBY ORDERED allowing Petitioner to serve Respondent RAFAEL C. CANIEZO, as follows: By posting a true and correct copy of the documents at Respondent’s place of residence, in a conspicuous place, mailing a .copy to Respondent at Respondent’s known physical address and emailing a copy to Respondent’s email address.

By serving the documents by publication.

DONE IN OPEN COURT this date: _________ , 2017.

Hon. Jennifer Ryan-Touhill MARICOPA COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT

(MS-JUL. 29/AUG. 5/12/19, 2017)

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Albay dads seek to stop STL LEGAZPI CITY—The provincial board of Albay wants to stop the recently revived state-sponsored Small Town Lottery here on allegations of losing profits to the proliferation of illegal bookies.

The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office complained to provincial board members that the STL franchise holder here, Lucky 5 Inc., has failed miserably in complying with its remittance obligations to the government since it began operating in May. The provincial board had summoned the Lucky 5 official who said that the firm’s failure to remit the minimum amount to the PCSO was due to the proliferation of bookies.

The board resolution was confirmed by Danny Garcia, executive assistant and spokesman of Gov. Al Bichara. He said all board members signed the resolution presided by Board Member Job Belen, chairman of the committee

on games and amusements.

The board members would not accept Lucky 5’s justifications “because they have all the law enforcement, including the local government units, behind the STL operation,” Garcia said.

President Rodrigo Duterte has also instructed police and LGU officials to stop illegal gambling, he added.

For the last nine years, the rampant illegal gambling in Albay had been traced to the permit the provincial board had granted to the controversial firm Meridien Vista Gaming Corp. in 2008 to expand its operation in Albay from its exclusive franchise with the Cagayan Economic Zone Authority.

The Catholic Diocese of Legazpi condemned Meridien’s operation and alleged it as a mere front for jueteng. It described Meridien’s online operations as “non-existing.”

Bichara admitted in May that Meridien Vista did not have any record of tax remittances to the Capitol since 2013.

Still, Garcia claimed that with the entry of STL last May, Meridien ceased its operations in the province on June 25.

PCSO deputy general manager Florante Solmerin confirmed the Albay STL operation’s predicament in a radio interview here last week.

Anti-illegal gambling advocates have claimed that despite the revived STL, “jueteng” continues to exist in Albay, with card-bearing STL bet collectors themselves moonlighting for the illegal numbers game.

Old jueteng bet collectors reportedly use cellphone texting to take bets from bettors, who remit their payments to STL bet collectors. The collectors then remit only a portion of the legal bets for the STL. Manilyn B. Ugalde

SMFI...

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the completed and fully equipped Lemery Municipal Health Center to Vice Mayor Simonette Rosales and Dr. Janice Umali-Kahulugan, OIC of the Center.

Municipal councilors, barangay officials and health workers witnessed the turnover.

Also on hand to lend support

to the Foundation were members of the SM Group led by John Jason Terenal, assistant vice president of Mall Operations at SCMC South; Cid Luis Victoria, regional manager Mall Operation; Armie Andal of SM Store; and Lyn Gabriel, mall manager of SM Center Lemery.

a complement of two nurses and 10 midwives.

Connie Angeles, senior vice president and executive director of SM Foundation, formally turned over

plead for firm with ERC SUBIC, Zambales—The Cawag Tribal Association has urged the Energy Regulatory Commission to act on the power supply agreement of the Redondo Peninsula Energy Inc. that has been pending with the commission since April 2016.

The group is an association of over 100 Aytas from Zambales currently residing in Barangay Cawag, Subic.

In a letter addressed to the ERC mommissioners, Ayta tribal chieftain Juanito Balosbalos expressed the group’s support to the planned 2x300megawatt power plant of RP Energy in Barangay Cawag.

The letter, dated Aug. 2, acknowledged the pending approval of the PSA that RP Energy has been waiting to be able to proceed with the power plant.

“This is the reason why we are calling for the urgent approval of the said PSA,” said Balosbalos, who represented the association in the hearing for the PSA in November last year.

Balosbalos emphasized that RP Energy has been providing services for the Aytas and is initiating projects that will improve the lives of the tribal group.

“We believe that the success of RP Energy will also be the success of the residents in our area. In fact, even with the plant yet to be constructed, RP Energy already has a lot of programs that benefit our barangay,” he said.

As an important stakeholder for the project, Balosbalos believes that the ERC will consider the request and support coming from their association.

Butch Gunio

World Fight to save floating gardens MEXICO CITY―Roberto Altamirano has the lake to himself as he casts his glistening net onto the still water in a perfect circle, lets it sink, then slowly pulls it in.

It comes back bearing a large haul of tilapia and carp―and that is exactly the problem.

Altamirano is one of just 20 or so fishermen who remain in the floating gardens of Xochimilco, an idyllic network of lakes, canals and artificial islands improbably tucked into the urban sprawl of Mexico City.

At 42, he has watched the number of fishermen here plunge over the years, leading to booming populations of tilapia and carp―invasive species that are threatening the already strained ecosystem of Xochimilco, a green lung vital to the health of smog-choked Mexico City.

“There’s more Xochimilco than there are fishermen,” says Altamirano.

First settled by the Aztecs, who created the original artificial islands, Xochimilco is today a UNESCO World Heritage Site visited by millions of tourists each year, who ply its maze of canals in colorful tour boats.

Chinese carp and African tilapia were first introduced here in the 1970s in what turned out to be a misguided plan to supply a new food source for local residents.

Today, no one in Mexico City will eat them, since the rampant growth of the Latin American mega-city has badly polluted the waters of Xochimilco with heavy metals.

Altamirano and his colleagues sell the fish to be ground up and used as compost.

The carp and tilapia are meanwhile threatening to wipe out a small, critically endangered salamander called the axolotl that is found only in Xochimilco. AFP

SATURDAY, AUGUST 19, 2017

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70 years of independence M

UMBAI―As India marks the 70th anniversary of its independence this year, a slew of movies tackling its colonial history are hitting cinema screens, including a controversial account of partition by the director of “Bend it Like Beckham”.

LAUNCHING. Olivia Culpo attends PrettyLittleThing X Olivia Culpo Launch at the Liaison Lounge in Los Angeles, California. AFP

Top US general: Attack on Japan the same as on US TOKYO―The United States’ most senior military officer on Friday said North Korea understands that an any attack on Japan is equal to one on the US itself―and vice versa.

General Joe Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, held talks with his Japanese counterpart at the defense ministry in Tokyo, wrapping up a regional tour during heightened tensions with North Korea.

Tokyo remains on alert against potential military provocations by Pyongyang after North Korea threatened to fire missiles towards the Pacific island of Guam, US territory, which would have flown over Japan.

“I think we made it clear to North

Korea and anyone else in the region that an attack on one is an attack on both of us,” Dunford told Katsutoshi Kawano, Chief of Staff of Japan’s SelfDefense Forces.

“And that’s very, very important for deterrence,” added Dunford, who visited South Korea and China before arriving in Japan.

Dunford added that the US reaffirmed its “ironclad commitment” to the security of Japan on Thursday when Defense Secretary Jim Mattis and Secretary of State Rex Tillerson held talks with their Japanese counterparts in Washington.

Japan frequently demands―and receives―US reassurances over its com-

mitment to defend its ally.

The US and Japan, adversaries in World War II, have forged a decades-long defense alliance and the US stations tens of thousands of troops in the country.

Washington has long encouraged Japan to take on more defense responsibility even though the country is militarily constrained by a US-written constitution imposed after the end of World War II. In 2015 nationalist Prime Minister Shinzo Abe pushed contentious security bills through parliament that expand what Japan can do to help its ally, such as coming to the aid of US troops under attack.

Dunford is scheduled to hold talks

with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe later in the day.

During his visit to China, Dunford said peace with North Korea is a “possibility”, but warned the US has “credible, viable military options” for dealing with the errant regime.

The US and North Korea have been engaged in heated verbal sparring since Trump warned Pyongyang that it faced “fire and fury” if it continued to threaten the US and other countries with its nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles.

North Korea responded that it was ready to aim a missile at the American territory Guam, an operation that has since been suspended. AFP

Gurinder Chadha’s “Viceroy’s House” is released in India on Friday under the name “Partition: 1947” and tells the story of how India’s last governor Lord Mountbatten oversaw the end of three centuries of British rule.

Partition and the British Empire have been the source of dramatic material for filmmakers in the past, from Richard Attenborough’s Oscar-winning “Gandhi” to David Lean’s “A Passage to India”.

Hindi language film “Lagaan” used cricket to spotlight a village’s rebellion against a draconian colonial-era tax.

But experts say the period has often been overlooked by filmmakers in the past, despite its dramatic potential―perhaps because the trauma of partition was still so fresh in people’s minds.

“As a space for stories, 1947 has not been mined as much as WWI or WWII or other historical events that have caught the imagination of the world,” film writer Shubhra Gupta told AFP. “Now there is enough distance between 1947 and us, and we are able to look back less in anger and anguish,” added Gupta, a film critic and columnist at the Indian Express newspaper.

Other Western movies to deal with the Raj era this year include “The Black Prince”, which recreates the life of Duleep Singh, the last king of Punjab, who was deposed and taken to Britain as a child, never to return to his homeland.

Stephen Frears’ “Victoria and Abdul” explores the true story of the unusual relationship between queen Victoria, played

by Judi Dench, and a young Indian clerk, Abdul Karim.

“Viceroy’s House” portrays the disastrous aftermath of partition when an untold number of people―some estimates say up two million―died in savage violence as Hindus and Muslims turned on one another.

Director Chadha, whose grandparents fled what is now Pakistan at partition, told AFP the story was “intensely personal”.

“My family rarely talked about partition because it was so raw and painful but my grandmother, who lived with us, was traumatized by what happened. So to make a film like this in India is a big deal for me,” she told AFP by email.

Chadha said the story of partition was deeply relevant today, as the world struggles to cope with a new refugee crisis and a rise in nationalism.

“The day I was filming the major scenes in a refugee camp we recreated with 1,000 extras was the same day the young Syrian refugee boy washed ashore in Greece,” she said.

“This story sends a warning that in this current time of the politics of division and hate... there will be tragic consequences.”

The movie, which stars Hugh Bonneville―of “Downton Abbey”―as Mountbatten, has had mixed reviews, with some critics accusing Chadha of being too soft on Britain.

Indian film critic Raja Sen in his review called it “an embarrassment, with or without its childish attempts at proempire revisionism”. AFP

Conservationist shot dead

READY FOR THE FESTIVAL. An Indian woman walks past artists working on idols of the elephant-headed Hindu deity Ganesha at a workshop ahead of the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in Mumbai on August 18, 2017. The Ganesh Chaturthi festival, a popular 11-day religious festival that is annually celebrated across India, runs this year from August 25 to September 5. During the festival devout Hindus pray to the idols of Lord Ganesha at their homes and temporary makeshift temples, culminating with the immersion of the idols in the Arabian Sea and local water bodies. AFP

NAIROBI―A leading conservationist who had worked hard to bring down notorious elephant poachers and stop ivory-trafficking has been shot dead in Tanzania, his PAMS foundation said Thursday.

“We are heartbroken to share the news that PAMS Foundation co-founder Wayne Lotter was shot and killed last night [Wednesday] in the Masaki District of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania,” read a statement.

The motive for the killing of the South African was unknown.

British primatologist and renowned environmentalist Jane Goodall described Lotter as her “hero”, a man who had faced “stiff opposition and personal threats” in his bid to protect Tanzania’s wildlife.

PAMS finances Tanzania’s National and Transnational Serious Crimes Investigation Unit (NTSCIU), which has scored some massive successes in recent years, arresting nearly 900 poachers and illegal ivory traders.

These include Chinese citizen Yang Fenlan, known as the “Ivory Queen”, who is currently on trial in Tanzania for illegally trafficking 706 elephant tusks between 2000 and 2014.

In March Tanzania’s most notorious

poacher, Boniface Matthew Maliango, commonly known as ‘The Devil’ was handed a 12-year prison sentence after his 2015 arrest by the NTSCIU. “There is no doubt in my mind but that Wayne’s anti poaching efforts made a big difference in the fight to save Tanzania’s elephants from the illegal ivory trade,” said Goodall.

Tanzania has been one of the worst hit by elephant poaching, losing over 66,000 elephants in the last decade. But PAMS believes there has been a “dramatic reduction” in such poaching since November 2014.

“Wayne passionately believed in the importance of involving local communities in the protection of wildlife, and through his work with PAMS he helped train hundreds of village game scouts in many parts of the country,” said Goodall.

“As a result, he gained the support of many of the local people, but inevitably faced strong opposition from dealers and many high level government officials.”

Tanzanian police have launched an investigation into his death.

“If this cowardly shooting was an attempt to bring the work of the PAMS Foundation to an end, it will fail,” said Goodall. AFP

Cesar Barrioquinto, Editor

C4

SATURDAY, AUGUST 19, 2017

Road to Europe gets harder for migrants

World

Night of eerie silence after deadly rampage B ARCELONA―In Barcelona’s old town, dozens of stunned tourists dressed in shorts and t-shirts stood behind security tape in the early hours, witnesses to the shocking attack on the famous boulevard of Las Ramblas.

Thirteen people were killed and more than 100 injured when a white van sped into the historic promenade, which was packed with tourists, knocking people down in a scene of chaos and horror.

Close to the statue of Christopher Columbus, which depicts the explorer pointing out to sea, a distressed Scottish couple in their sixties who watched the attack unfold studied the security cordon blocking off the street.

“We were sitting on the balcony of the hotel. We saw everything... the car... the panic everywhere,” said the man, who did not want to be named, adding that they now could not get

back to their hotel.

“The police, they arrived in two minutes, they were very good,” the woman said, staring blankly ahead. “We had to talk with them.”

As the city was bathed in sunshine hours earlier, Barcelona was shaken by the first attack on Spanish soil claimed by the Islamic State group.

Its target was the crowd enjoying the summer afternoon, browsing stalls selling flowers and souvenirs along the central pathway of Las Ramblas, an avenue that stretches more than a kilometer toward the sea.

On a narrow street close by, 45-year-old Benjamin, a Barce-

lona resident, stood staring at the spot where the van hit a stall.

“Where we can see the forensic police working, in their white suits, that’s where the van ran up against a kiosk,” said the industrial mechanic.

In the city of 1.6 million people―where nine million tourists come to stay every year―several cruise ships were also waiting as passengers tried to return to the pier.

The tragedy took the city by surprise: FC Barcelona was digesting a defeat to Real Madrid, the Catalan government was in the middle of its protracted fight for an independence referendum and security staff were striking at the airport.

But the city that hosted the Olympics in 1992 soon rallied in solidarity with those caught up in the devastation.

The strike was suspended, taxis offered rides free of charge and volunteers rushed to donate

blood, according to local media.

Hotels close to Las Ramblas welcomed tourists, offering them shelter and blankets.

An eerie silence pervaded the center of a city that would usually be bustling until the early hours at the height of the midAugust holidays.

“It’s a strangely quiet atmosphere,” said Remy Gredin, a 23-year-old student from Marseille, finishing dinner at one of the few restaurants open on the Rambla del Raval, a street that runs parallel to the main promenade.

“We are waiting to go back to the apartment we are renting on the Ramblas. The attack happened just below but we had left an hour before to visit the Park Guell,” he said as he ate with three French friends.

Beneath the lampposts, road sweepers in fluorescent vests rubbed shoulders with plain clothes policeman. AFP

UNDEFINED―From the increasingly fraught trek through the Sahara to violence in Libya, the asylum seekers rescued this week in the Mediterranean say the obstacles to reaching Europe are getting bigger.

Jouma and Abdulhameed told AFP how they fled civil war and a humanitarian crisis that has ravaged South Sudan.

Their fellow boat companions Saeed and Ghanim recounted a harrowing escape from police violence and poverty in Sudan.

Saeed, a 28-year-old pharmacist, says he decided to leave following his third stint in a violent prison for his trade union activities.

But he told his wife he was going to Egypt: “Libya is a dangerous place, I did not want to worry her,” he said.

He and a friend traveled to Libya via Darfur on a route monitored more closely than before due to European pressure on migrant transit countries.

“It’s hard to get through.

There are the Janjaweed [progovernment militia accused of genocidal killings and atrocities], and the Sudanese government does not let you pass,” said 27-year old Abdoulhameed.

He and Ghanim, 20, had to make a several-week detour through Chad, while Jouma, 39, went through Egypt.

At each stage the men were forced to pay off local militia or risk being held captive as slaves in the desert.

“I’ve seen many people get killed,” Jouma said.

In Benghazi in Libya, Saeed ran into fundamentalists he was told belonged to the so-called Islamic State.

“They asked us to read a few verses from the Koran and they let us go,” he said.

One after another the men contacted a smuggler network to attempt the perilous crossing to Italy, with prices set between 1,200 and 2,000 Libyan dinars to “cross the river”.

The fare―less than $300 on the black market―is up to four times less than the sums demanded a few years ago thanks to a drop in the value of the dinar and the use of cheap dinghies rather than wooden boats.

The traffickers locked the men up with another 300 to 400 migrants.

“Something like a prison. It was a very hard situation, inhuman,” said Saeed, who spent three weeks there.

Abdoulhameed said “sometimes if you don’t pay the money they torture you, they beat you.

Ghanim said they had been told they would be set out to sea soon, but there had been a delay because “’nowadays the situation is unstable’. “’There are warships from Italy, a lot of people on the sea, if you move they are going to send you back’,” he was told.

Since early August, Italian navy ships have been active in Libyan waters, helping the local coastguard intercept migrant boats.

During the night of MondayTuesday, the smugglers came to get the men and drove them to the beach.

To his despair, Saeed’s traveling companion was forced to stay behind at the last moment.

The departure was organized by a “general” kitted out in a uniform. AFP

Reform leader Karroubi ends hunger strike TEHRAN―Iranian opposition leader Mehdi Karroubi, under house arrest for six years, ended his hunger strike late Thursday after the government agreed to remove intelligence agents from his home.

However, his demand to face trial―he has never been charged since being placed under house arrest in 2011―appears no closer to being granted.

Karroubi, 79, stopped eating and drinking on Wednesday morning and was hospitalized a day later with high blood pressure.

His son, Mohammad Hossein, told the reformist Jamaran website that Karroubi had met with Health Minister Hassan Ghazizadeh Hashemi on Thursday, and secured promises that convinced him to end the hunger strike.

Sahamnews, a website linked to the Karroubi family, said the government had promised to remove the agents from his home.

Karroubi and fellow reformist leader Mir Hossein Mousavi were candidates in Iran’s disputed 2009 presidential election that sparked months of mass protests over claims that the polls were rigged in favor of hard-line incumbent Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.

Both were placed under house arrest in 2011 for their role in the protests, which were brutally put down by the regime.

Former president Mohammad Khatami, the figurehead of the reformist movement who has been banned from appearing in the media since the protests, said there was nothing he could do to secure a trial.

“The fact that I cannot do anything to remove these worries makes me even more sad,” he told Karroubi’s son, according to Sahamnews.

Karroubi’s wife Fatemeh told Sahamnews earlier this week that his first demand was the removal of intelligence ministry agents and security cameras that had been recently installed inside their home, which she said “has no precedent before or after the [1979 Islamic] revolution in any house arrest”.

“Second... in case of continuation of the house arrest, they should arrange a public trial,” she said.

Karroubi “does not expect a fair trial” but wants it to be public and would respect the verdict, she added.

In March, his son Mohammad Hossein was sentenced to six months in prison for “propaganda against the regime” after he published a letter that his father had written to Iran’s current president, Hassan Rouhani, calling for a trial.

Karroubi’s failing health―he underwent a heart operation earlier this month―poses a potential problem for the Iranian regime, with fears that it could provide a lightning rod for renewed protests.

He remained in hospital on Friday as doctors monitored his condition.

Rouhani, considered a political moderate, won a resounding re-election victory in May, in part by rallying reformists and vowing to win the release of Mousavi and Karroubi.

But hard-line judiciary chief Ayatollah Sadegh Larijani threw cold water over Rouhani’s promises shortly after the election. AFP

FASHION SHOW IN MOSCOW. Models display creations by legendary Soviet-Russian designer Slava Zaitsev during a fashion show in Moscow. AFP

Diana’s death forced royals to overhaul their image LONDON―Public anger at the monarchy following the death of Princess Diana marked a turning point for the royal family, forcing a revolution in its communications machine that helped revive the brand.

As mourners left thousands of bouquets of flowers at the gates of Buckingham Palace and nearby Kensington Palace, after Diana’s death on August 31, 1997, the royal family were nowhere to be seen.

Prince Charles, divorced from Diana, and his mother Queen Elizabeth II remained at their Scottish residence of Balmoral, saying nothing for days.

Despite the British public’s mounting anger at the royal response―or lack thereof―it was not until the day before Diana’s funeral that the queen finally broke her silence with a live broadcast to the nation.

The monarch’s distance from the public outpouring of grief for the woman dubbed the “people’s princess” by then prime minister Tony Blair caused resentment.

Having been immersed in protocol and tradition for centuries, the royals quickly realized they were in urgent need of an image overhaul.

In her tribute to Diana, the queen said: “I for one believe that there are lessons to be drawn from her life and from the extraordinary and moving reaction to her death.”

The result was royals “having to become more professional, and having to take real control and take outside advice and better professional people,” public relations expert Mark Borkowski told AFP. The out-of-touch Buckingham Palace press office, which Borkowski re-

members used to close over the weekends while some of the most interesting Diana stories unfolded, underwent a shake-up.

Sluggish employees were replaced with PR-savvy professionals.

Patrick Jephson, Diana’s former private secretary, said the current image of the monarchy was the product of a “very sophisticated news management campaign”.

The current media strategy focuses on distributing positive information about the monarchy, while at the same time protecting the royals’ privacy.

One of the first tasks post-Diana was to create a more “human” image for the queen, who had been reported as being more concerned about her dogs and horses than her citizens.

Charles, mocked for being haughty and stiff, has also gone through a re-

vamp since his ex-wife’s death.

“He has spent an enormous amount of money hiring very sophisticated, professional, political-style spin doctors to manage his image,” Jephson said.

The investment has paid off, with the public’s gradual acceptance of Charles’s relationship with his former mistress Camilla, whom he married in 2005.

The extent of the royal recovery could be seen in 2011, when Diana’s eldest son Prince William married Kate in a ceremony watched worldwide as Britons held street parties in the couple’s honor.

“What they tried to do was to promote what was good about the royal family,” said Robert Jobson, co-author of the book “Diana: Closely Guarded Secret”. AFP

R

ECENTLY, celebrity stylist Charmaine Palermo embarked on an exciting trip to Mexico with a collection of personalities that included Tim Yap, Bianca Manalo, and Maria Ozawa. The trip began in the ‘“Pearl of the West,” Guadalajara, the capital city of Jalisco, a state regarded by many as the “Land of Tequila”.

Life

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

TRAVEL AND LEISURE

SATURDAY, AUGUST 19, 2017

D1

Palermo and company explored Guadalajara, and the nearby town of Tequila for an exciting tour through La Rojeña, the famous distillery that produces Jose Cuervo Tequila.

Now home from her trip to Mexico, Palermo took some time from her busy schedule to talk about her experience in tequila land and share the secrets that allow her to travel with style and functionality.

As a stylist, how did you prepare for your Mexico trip?

I studied the itinerary and weather in Mexico and from there, I put together my outfits for each day that we were there.

Did you do any research before selecting what outfits would be perfect for the trip?

When traveling to another country, one must always research on the weather and activities one plans on doing. Like for this trip, we were given an itinerary on our daily activities, like visiting the agave fields, fiesta dinner, and nights out to bars. This allowed us to prepare our looks based on function and comfort.

Were there any places you were particularly excited to visit?

Mexico has been on my bucket list for a while, so I was just happy to visit the country. I was looking forward to seeing the Centro Historico, the Teotihuacan pyramids, and the Frida Kahlo Museum.

STYLISH SOJOURN. Celebrity stylist

Charmaine Palermo shares tips on how to travel fuss-free and with style.

EXPLORING MEXICO

with function, style, and tequila

Mexico has incredible landmarks, was it easy to match outfits to the scenery?

Yes, every corner was a feast for the eyes! The art and architecture are amazing and you can see modern structures all over the city. Then you visit the Pre-Hispanic era by seeing the pyramids, the colonial structures in the cathedrals, and then the town of Tequila in Jalisco. It feels like you’re on the set of a Mexican film.

What were the memorable moments from the trip?

The three main activities, which included a visit to the Blue Agave fields, Jose Cuervo’s distillery process in La Rojeña, and of course, the tequila tasting were very memorable for me.

Turn to D2

Charmaine Palermo, in various enviable outfits, discovers Mexico’s rich history, culture, and its popular drink—tequila.

Pinnacle of mountain living

Tagaytay Highlands takes mountain-side living up a notch as it slowly evolves into a complete township – a fusion of Tagaytay’s natural beauty and city conveniences.

TAGAYTAY Highlands has long been the standard of luxe, mountain resort living in the country with its wide-array of themed residential offerings, and top-notch amenities embraced in unparalleled nature views and weather—setting the tone of a premier mountainside haven like no other.

Woodridge Place stands out on its own. Inspired by the elegant Colorado Rockies mountain resorts, Woodridge Place fuses the countryside mountain retreat experience with modern living conveniences. Here, residents are treated to a worry-free, rustic escape, assured of access to city-like facilities and amenities 24/7.

Residents can relish quiet family time in one- to four-bedroom units ranging between 41 to 241 square meters. Each unit features strategically-located, generous balcony areas to enjoy perpetually unobstructed views of the lush land— and mountainscapes, the Highlands fairways, and Laguna de Bay. Large panel windows are also in place to help maximize natural lighting and cross ventilation for energy efficiency, not to mention enjoy the cool Tagaytay breeze perfected by the fresh scent of surrounding Norfolk pines.

Award-winning mountainside condominium development

Woodridge Place is certainly one of Tagaytay Highlands’ charms that its developer, Highlands Prime Incorporated, takes great pride of. The residential condominium was recently named the Best Residential Development in the Resort category of the 2017 Philippines Property Awards. Organized by PropertyGuru, the Philippines Property Awards recognizes the up and coming, and best of the bests in Philippine Real Estate.

Tagaytay Highlands Senior Vice President for Operations Lennie A. Mendoza and Executive Vice President and Business Unit Head for SM Prime’s Resort Residences Shirley C. Ong accepted the Best Leisure Development Award (in the Philippines) for Tagaytay Highlands at the Asia Pacific Property Awards held in Bangkok, Thailand.

“This mountain retreat hits the mark for a resort residential development. Woodridge Place sits in the center of the thriving township of Tagaytay Highlands with the right amenities that cater to its target investors,” said the awards judges.

Indeed, Woodridge Place is a testament of Tagaytay Highlands’ vision coming to fruition—providing a refreshing take on living amidst Tagaytay’s best bounties together with a nurturing community, giving the best mountain resort lifestyle for the family.

Tagaytay Highlands scores epic win TOP international property award giving body, Asia Pacific Property Awards (APPA) named Tagaytay Highlands as the Best Leisure Development in the Philippines for 2017, which recognizes Tagaytay Highlands’ continuous endeavor in providing the best in residential leisure living.

Held recently in Bangkok, the glittering awards gala was attended by delegates from Southeast Asia, Australia, India, China, Japan, and New Zealand. Executive Vice President and Business Unit Head for SM Resort Residences Group, Shirley Ong who received the award declared, “It’s an honor to be among these property professionals and accept the award for properties that are truly world-class.”

Ong represented Tagaytay Highlands along with Lennie A. Mendoza, senior vice president and Tagaytay Highlands head for Operations.

Now on its 26th year, the Asia Pacific Property Awards is the largest, most prestigious, and widely recognized property tilt throughout the region and currently running in several countries globally. Tagaytay Highlands was evaluated among other leisure developments in the Asia Pacific region, and was assessed based on design, quality, service, innovation, originality, and commitment to sustainability. The judging panel is chaired by Lord Caithness, Lord Best, The Earl of Liverpool, and Lord Thurso, members of the House of Lords in the UK Parliament.

Tagaytay Highlands’ efforts in creating world-class and nurturing residential communities were also acknowledged in the recently concluded Philippines Property Awards organized by PropertyGuru which recognizes the up and coming, and best of the best in Philippine Real Estate.

The Mahogany and Linden Towers of Woodridge Place, Tagaytay Highlands’ prime condo development, was awarded the Best Residential Develop-

ment Resort category in the 2017 Philippines Property Awards. Woodridge Place is certainly one of Tagaytay Highlands’ charms that its developer, Highlands Prime Incorporated, takes great pride of. The judged unanimously selected Woodridge Place in such category saying, “This mountain retreat hits the mark for a resort residential development. Woodridge Place sits in the center of the thriving township of Tagaytay Highlands with the right amenities that cater to its target investors.”

Inspired by the elegant Colorado Rockies mountain resorts, Woodridge Place fuses the countryside mountain retreat experience with modern living conveniences. Residents are treated to a worry-free, rustic escape and assured of access to city-like facilities and amenities. Its one to four bedroom units ranging between 41 to 241 square meters features strategically-located, generous balcony areas to enjoy perpetually unobstructed views of the lush mountainscapes, the Highlands fairways, and Laguna de Bay. “These wards validate our incessant venture to provide the best in mountain resort living”, says Ms. Mendoza.

“We are happy to see our vision come to life—providing a refreshing take on living amidst Tagaytay’s best bounties together with a nurturing community, giving the best mountain resort lifestyle for the family”, she adds.

Winning two accolades in prestigious property awards from both local and international leagues is indeed an epic milestone for the development and only proves Tagaytay Highlands as the frontrunner in the leisure and mountain resort development in the country.

It is also a testament to the fact that despite more than two decades of development, Tagaytay Highlands continues to evolve and embrace progress to counter the signs of the times and emerge ahead of competition.

Life

D2

SATURDAY, AUGUST 19, 2017 isahred@gmail.com

Connecting the Philippines and Guam U

NITED Airlines recently celebrated the 35th anniversary of its Manila-Guam service during a ceremony held at Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport prior to departure of flight UA190 bound for Guam.

With nearly 43,000 Filipinos living in Guam, making up more than one-fourth of the island’s population, United remains committed to providing a convenient and seamless service between Manila and Guam.

Passengers on the anniversary flight UA190 were greeted at the gate by the United team with lei for each of the travelers alongside members of the Guam Visitors Bureau. The gate was decorated with balloons, posters and a United Airlines photo wall.

Passengers enjoyed a cocktail breakfast, cupcakes and a video presentation

FROM airfare to hotel accommodations, city tours to ridiculous roaming charges, travelling abroad entails a lot of planning more than you can imagine. Today’s technology has revolutionized how Pinoys enjoy their much-awaited getaways. Although it sounds convenient, one culprit which can make or break your travel plans is the ridiculous cost of overseas data charges. It’s like seeing your entire credit limit crumble before your eyes for a single webpage abroad.

“Roaming charges for mobile internet are so expensive that usually, the only option left is to switch off your phone’s cellular connection completely. Your smartphone becomes nothing from the second you touch down in a foreign land to the moment you arrive back home,” says Louis Looi, Flytpack Country Manager.

Companies such as Flytpack (www.f lytpack.com) offers travel add-on services to assist budgetconscious tourists to maximize their travel plans. To address the main concern of jetsetters regarding roaming charges, Flytpack offers a travel pocket Wi-Fi which allows users to connect devices anytime, anywhere for as low as P200 per day, making it easier to share travel memories to families and friends.

“One of the main reason why we came up with this service is to battle the expensive data roaming charges outbound travelers face after each trips,” says Looi. “People are fed up with the enormous amount of payments they have to face. These bill-shocked customers tend to look for local hotspots from some establishment which is not secured and may cause identity theft at the very least.”

United crew members celebrate the 35th anniversary of the airlines’ Manila-Guam service of Guam as a destination before boarding their flight.

Alison Espley, United’s managing director Japan and Asia, Sales, said, “This is a momentous occasion for United as

we mark our 35th year of service between the Philippines and Guam. We sincerely thank our customers and business partners in the Philippines for their strong support and commitment over

the last 35 years. Whether traveling for business or leisure, our customers can always count on us to connect them to the moments that matter most.”

United began its service to and from

the Philippines in 1982 with four weekly direct flights from Guam with the Boeing 727 aircraft and in 1987, the service increased to seven weekly flights due to the route’s strong traffic demand.

Today, the Boeing 737-700/800 flies the route.

Travelers who are eager to explore Hawaii can reach Honolulu from Manila conveniently through the Guam hub with one-stop daily flight. In addition, customers in the Philippines can enjoy convenient connections from Manila to a series of destinations in the mainland U.S. by way of Guam and Honolulu.

United has also joined forces with All Nippon Airways (ANA), United’s trans-Pacific Joint Venture partner, to provide an even greater choice of convenient destinations in the U.S. via Tokyo’s Haneda or Narita Airport. The Joint Venture between the two airlines enables one-stop connections to multiple cities in the U.S. including Chicago, Denver, Honolulu, Houston, New York/John F. Kennedy, New York/Newark, San Jose, Seattle and Washington, D.C.

Overseas net provider to end roaming woes Posting updates and checking in across your social media accounts and even going on Facebook Live would be possible through the ultra-fast 4G internet connection. Booking an Uber or Grab overseas and going around the streets through Waze and other navigation apps is no longer a problem.

Flytpack’s exclusive partnership with several telcos spanning 60 countries allows its customers to get the exact speed as the locals do.

Lifestyle and travel influencer Kryz Uy vouches for Flytpack’s convenience and reliability. “I got my

FlytPack while I was still in the Philippines. All I did was tell them where I was headed and on which dates, and they set it all up for me. This device kept us connected from London to The Netherlands to Paris, and I didn’t have to call or activate anything. It happened automatically and without any glitches,” says Uy. Aside from travel pocket wifi, Flytpack also offers Japan rail pass, overseas SIM cards and attraction tickets at a low price.

To know more about Flytpack, visit www.flytpack.com.

Travelers who want to stay connected while they’re overseas can do so, in a much cheaper way, with Flytpack’s travel pocket Wi-Fi.

There are a few things better than a weekend spent in luxurious room with all its amenities

STAYCATION

Weekend bliss

GET the most out of your weekend at New World Makati Hotel.

Enjoy a late check out, a full 24 hours of relaxation, and an upgrade to a Premier room when you book its Weekend Bliss package for P7,000 net. Promo includes buffet breakfast for two adults and two children at Café 1228.

Ease into the day slowly and relish

every moment with your family. Experience convenience as you chill out in stylish accommodations or explore the metropolis only at the best location in Makati City.

For information and reservations, please call (02) 811-6888 or visit New World Makati Hotel’s website, manila. newworldhotels.com.

Tequila is your favorite black dress that you can always rely on. It’s guarFrom D1 anteed that you’ll always look good in it. Just like Jose Cuervo, it’s a drink that I learned so much about Jose Cuervo will guarantee you’ll have a good time. and why it really is the best tequila brand in the market.

What advice can you share with people who want to travel with style How has the experience changed and ease? your opinion on tequila?

Planning your outfit for every activity This trip has converted me into a te- each day really helps. It will save you time quila drinker! I appreciate the labor and when getting ready to go somewhere. love behind every bottle of Jose Cuervo Never compromise comfort because, in by understanding where it came from the end, you just want to enjoy the trip and seeing the process of making it. It’s and not worry about wardrobe malfuncalso a bonus that tequila has the least tions and foot blisters. Pack pieces that calories out of all the alcohol choices. A you can mix and match and can go from shot is only sixty-eight calories, which day to night. Don’t over pack so you have now makes it my drink of choice. room for shopping too.

Exploring...

The Benilde educators and industry professionals with their hard-earned CGSP certificate from AHLEI

American hospitality institute

certifies Filipino educators and industry professionals THE American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI) recognizes individuals who have achieved exceptional service by engaging with guests, creating memorable experiences, and enhancing the minds of students in the hospitality field.

Founded in 1953, the AHLEI assists hospitality students and professionals with education and training to meet the needs of the industry through a variety of hospitality solutions, through resources for high schools, colleges, and workforce agencies, online learning, and certifications.

The Certified Guest Service Professional (CGSP), one of the certification programs, has recently been awarded to 28 faculty and staff of the Benilde Retreat & Conference Complex (BRCC),

Hotel Benilde Maison De La Salle, and The School for Hotel, Restaurant and Institute Management (SHRIM) of De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB), in a pinning ceremony at the school’s Salle de Auvergne.

Recognized worldwide, the designation is the highest acknowledgment of awarding-winning guest service for educators and employees in the lodging industry.

Dean Angelo Lacson of SHRIM said the recognition adds to other industry qualifications that Benilde associates regularly receive. These include the Certified Hospitality Educator (CHE) and the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) certificate.

Among those who received their CGSP pin include Rajino Emmanuel F. Santos of BRCC.

The recognition was also awarded to Plaridel R. Bautista Jr., Ma. Theresa B. Raposa, Mary Ann C. Reyes, Jose Antonio A. Sacluti, Romero F. Tangara, all from Hotel Benilde.

The roster was completed by SHRIM faculty members Loren C. Alcala, Chuchi P. Alcoseba, Jester G. Arellano, Maria Mercedita Brodit, Kim Marie Castillo, Maria Paz A. Castro, Jack Jude B. Garcia, Aldrin Rei O. Laygo, Jade Christopher M. Lee, Novena A. Lopez, Margarita L. Marty, Vivian T. Perez, Stephen Edward Petranek, Jerwin F. Pineda, Maria Purificacion C. Rebong, Lora Lee F. Reboton, Reynante M. Sagun, Remilyn A. Salazar, Tiffany Anne G. Santuyo, Dennis S. Sebastian, Victor R. Vibal, and Mier Jesus G. Zapanta Jr.

How can you sum up the entire experience of going to Mexico?

It was a fun trip that really educated us about tequila and Mexican culture and history. I fell in love with Mexico.

We’re definitely going back with our other friends soon.

How important is confidence to an outfit?

Confidence completes your look. It’s the way you can carry yourself that defines your personal style. No two persons can be the same. Always feel good and it will radiate from within. You can fake it ‘til you have it and you can take If tequila was a piece of clothing, a shot of tequila to help you with that what would it be? extra boost of confidence.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 19, 2017

Celebrity riders hit the track for KTM Track Day

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HAT do TV host Drew Arellano, top advertising director Sid Maderazo, Javy Olives, motoring journalist James Deakin and host Manu Sandejas have in common?

Apart from being popular celebrities in their own right, they are all brought together by one common passion: the love for motorcycles.

In fact, the first three gentlemen – Drew, Sid, and Javy – are among the members of the so-called “Brap Pack,” a group with a goal to cause positive change in the country’s motorcycle culture as they travel to different parts of the country.

And so, one Saturday, these celebrity motorcycle aficionados joined other riding enthusiasts for the first KTM Track Day event held at the Clark International Speedway.

The KTM Track Day is an exclusive event for KTM owners and bike aficionados that gives them the chance to get a feel of the legendary Ready to Race performance of KTM motorcycles, which are now available in authorized dealers nationwide. The KTM Track Day also allows for camaraderie and shared learning, as vital riding techniques were practiced on a challenging, professional Motorcycle enthusiasts Sid Maderazo (left) and James Deakin at the first KTM Track Day event held at the Clark International Speedway track.

REP’s Theater for Young Audiences brings children closer to theater SEEING kids waiting outside for their parents who were watching an adults-only production at Repertory Philippines’ William J. Shaw theater, inspired REP’s Theater for Young Audiences Founder and Artistic Director, Joy Virata, to give children their own kind of theater. Thus 25 years ago, REP’s Theater for Young Audiences (RTYA), originally known as the REP Children’s Theater (RCT), was established to mount productions specifically meant for children.

“We had just moved into the William J. Shaw Theater and for the first time we would have exclusive use of a theater. We could do shows in the daytime. I went to Ms. Zeneida Amador (co-founder of Repertory Philippines) with a plan and she gave me permission to start it,” says Joy. RTYA’s very first production was the magical story of Sleeping Beauty. Joy describes the show as a sweet and gentle musical, which she chanced upon while reading a Music Theater International catalogue in New York. “I liked the description and the fact that the playwrights, Jim Eiler and Jean Bargy, also thought that children deserved the same quality of theater as adults. Since then RTYA has done all of their plays” she says.

RTYA has followed the same general principles for choosing material. The production must not be more than 75 minutes long, the music must be good with more songs than dialogue, the dialogue must be simple, the songs must be lively and call for lively choreography, and there must be humor. Most often, but not always, these are fairly tales because of their timeless appeal and relevance for children.

Recently RTYA produced its first original adaptation—Hansel and Gretel based on the opera by Englebert Humperdinck. It featured “witches” on “rollies” and a real Maypole dance. A favorite production was Seussical based on the books by Dr. Seuss. This was the most modern production ever done which featured famous Dr. Seuss characters and a set based on the art of Vincent Van Gogh. The dwarfs of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs were a hit with the children who interacted with them beautifully. Pinocchio was another favorite and introduced young actors who have since then made names for themselves in other productions. This production featured a surprising opening with the characters coming “alive” from a painted scrim. The Wizard Of Oz featured acrobatic monkeys and a shimmering “Emerald City.”

“I try to do something different with every production” says Joy. “My goal is to make children enjoy their theater experience. I try to make that happen with the best designers, choreographers and

professional actors I can get. I want the productions to be magical.”

“Children make the best critics” she continues “and when I see 800 children listening and watching a show intently and responding to what is going on onstage (and sometimes leaving the theater humming a song or saying a memorable line) that is the best accolade I can get.”

The next 25 years will see the RTYA hopefully continuing to give children the opportunity to experience good theater and possibly to do more original adaptations. This year it will stay committed to this goal by staging Beauty and the Beast—a retelling of the classic fairy tale with book written by Peter de Valle and John Ahearn, music by Michael Valenti and music by Elsa Real. Based on a French story published in 1740, it is the enthralling tale of a cursed Prince, turned into a beast under a spell that can only be broken by true love.

You can catch RTYA’s Beauty and the Beast until Dec. 14 at Onstage, Greenbelt 1.

For inquiries, you may call REP at 843 3570, and Ticketworld at 891 999 or log on to www.ticketworld.com.ph.

For updates and show schedules, log on to www.repertoryphilippines. ph, like and follow repertoryphilippines on Facebook and Instagram, and follow @repphils on Twitter.

The cast of "The Wizard of Oz," a local production by REP's Theater for Young Audiences

CROSSWORD PUZZLE Saturday, August 19, 2017

ACROSS 1 Bossy’s offspring 5 Be stingy 10 Dorm view 14 Two-color cookie 15 Hard-hit drive 16 Bear, to Brutus 17 Israel’s Golda 18 “Forget” a letter 19 Disney CEO Bob — 20 Cellar 22 Run in the raw 24 Drain, as energy 25 Baroness Karen 26 Donut stop 29 Suspect’s photo (2 wds.)

33 Dorm coverers 34 Go sky-high 36 Self-esteem 37 Youngster 38 Woolen fabric 39 Gun owners’ grp.

40 Maximum 41 Salad veggie 42 Filleted 44 Bogs 47 Chaos 48 Town near Santa Fe 49 Find the sum 50 Arms position 53 Within reach

58 Prohibition (hyph.)

59 Whinny 61 Requirement 62 Makes into leather 63 Speaker introducer 64 Two fives for —— 65 Part of MIT 66 Clever ploys 67 Superman’s mom DOWN 1 Remove tangles 2 Land measure 3 Grass-skirt accessories 4 Predict 5 Drowsing off 6 Brickmaker’s oven 7 Rolling — — (rich) 8 Kind of student 9 Stress 10 Peculiarities 11 Nudge forward 12 Offshore 13 Pitch-black 21 Jupiter’s neighbor 23 The “it” game 25 Campaign issue 26 Cap visors

27 Be of use 28 Pal, slangily 30 Auburn tint 31 Fairy-tale heavies 32 Frog cousins 34 “If I Ran the Zoo” author 35 Mork’s planet 38 Sailing vessel 42 Physiques, informally 43 Type of number 45 Nth 46 Chatter endlessly

47 Pulverizes 50 Debate side 51 Zen riddle 52 Quaint stopovers 53 Snapshots 54 Ess molding 55 Letter before gamma 56 Wanton look 57 Novelist — Ferber 60 Non-flying bird

Performing Arts in Dance THE Bachelor in Performing Arts in Dance gears students for the 21st century world of dance, graduating individuals who will meet or exceed the prerequisites of the profession.

The Bachelor in Performing Arts in Dance aims to introduce students to the broad scope of dance career possibilities in a liberal arts setting and future graduate and/ or advanced studies.

The Dance Program further increases the expertise of and individualizes the creative capabilities of prospective artists by sustaining progressive and innovative course offerings that have never before existed in local dance education. The goal is to produce artists who will meet or exceed the prerequisites of the dance profession.

In the intra-School of Design and Arts level, the specialized majors would enhance the cultural environment on campus through additional performances and workshops.

The programs would contribute to the environment of a diverse student body by offering areas of study in the arts to a wider group of students and opportunities to view a high caliber of professional performances for the entire De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde student body.

Community outreach and education are integral to the Dance Program. Involvement in community projects is important to a dance professional. Community performances, lecture demonstrations in area public schools, and student on-site teaching are all part of the proposed degree program.

By diversifying the degree offerings and allowing students more choices for their undergraduate studies, the Bachelor in Performing Arts in Dance program will attract more students, including some who may aspire to continue on to Masteral in Dance Programs, a typical path for performing arts majors and another future consideration for SDA.

Isah V. Red, Editor Nickie Wang, Writer isahred@gmail.com SATURDAY, AUGUST 19, 2017

G

ET ready for GMA Network’s newest youth-oriented show that will challenge the stereotype on the new generation. Beginning tonight, G.R.I.N.D. (Get Ready It’s A New Day!) will feature the story of four millennials who struggle to find their place in the world but face each day head on.

Starring Bruno Gabriel as Carlo Yuson, Jazz Ocampo as Solanj Martinez, Ayra Mariano as Lui Gonzales and Benedict Campos as RK Katakutan, the show will identify the millennial culture and modern independence, depicted in a day-to-day situation.

The four of them will have their lives intertwined and they will share the common goal of gaining respect from the people they care about. With their personal weaknesses and strengths, how will they keep their friendship despite life’s challenges?

Carlo Yuson is a thriving manager of one of the largest advertising companies in the country. Coming from a difficult childhood, he has developed grit for success. However, this makes him vulnerable to jealous co-workers and bosses.

How will he handle the pressure?

Solanj Martinez is Carlo’s best friend who is an underachiever wanting to prove herself to the world. Born with a silver spoon, Solanj challenges herself by investing on a café business that puts her love life at stake. If her business fails, her family will dictate the person she will marry. Will she end up messing her life or will she finally find her true passion?

Meanwhile, Lui Gonzales is the polar opposite of Solanj as she belongs in a dysfunctional family where she takes the responsibility of being the breadwinner. Her mom got involved with different men, giving her children with different nationalities. In order to support her family, Lui juggles with different jobs while trying to remain as the source of sunshine in their household. What else could go wrong in her life?

Having the same fate is the handsome and discreet gay man RK Katakutan who tries his luck in the city to help his struggling but happy family in the province. Just like Lui, he will be shifting from one job to another as to support the immediate needs of his loved ones. But what secrets and lies does he have to keep up to maintain the happiness in their family?

Produced by Wizpher Mac Production , tune in to GMA Network every Saturday and meet the four millennials who will show the realities of modern life in G.R.I.N.D. (Get Ready It’s A New Day!) after I-Witness!

"Little Big Shot" host Billy Crawford with 6-year-old Kent, a kiddo with abs

MILLENNIAL.

Showbiz scion Bruno Gabriel leads the cast of G.R.I.N.D. (Get Ready It’s A New Day!), a show for today's generation of young people

GMA Network launches weekly series ‘G.R.I.N.D.’

Talented kids draw high viewership VIEWERS nationwide watched the first batch of charming kids show off their extraordinary talents in the hit international kiddie talent-talk show Little Big Shots, which premiered to high ratings last weekend.

Based on data from Kantar Media, the show posted a national TV rating of 36 percent across urban and rural homes, compared to rival program Pepito Manaloto: Ang Tunay na Kwento, which only scored 20.7 percent.

Little Big Shots also scored 36.9 percent last Sunday versus Hay Bahay!, which only got 14.9 percent.

Charming viewers and gaining praises online last weekend were pole dancer Allyza, fish deboning expert Janice, geography master Klyde, three-year-old charmer Rodzen, hiphop dancer JM, acrobatic duo Andrei and Alfonso, junior archers Basti and Kat, six-year-old kid with six-pack abs Kent, and skateboarder Jayden.

Billy Crawford received compliments for his entertaining banter and chemistry with the kids featured on the show.

According to him, hosting Little Big Shots is a big opportunity so he goes out of his way to give viewers a great show.

“Being a part of It’s Showtime is a huge help because the kids already see me on TV. Before the taping starts, I go to the kids and talk to them so when they come on stage, everything comes out more naturally,” shared Billy.

Little Big Shots airs Saturdays and Sundays on ABS-CBN and on ABS-CBN HD (SkyCable ch 167).

For updates on the show, like www.facebook.com/ LBigShotsPH or follow @LBigShotsPH on Twitter.

Modern day female heroes in TWGRR

Jazz Ocampo

Ayra Mariano

Benedict Campos

‘THE CROWN’ Season 2 on Netflix

Claire Foy and Matt Smith, stars of Netflix biographical drama, "The Crown"

NETFLIX releases first look photos at the second series of Peter Morgan’s royal drama The Crown, and announces the upcoming series will debut on Dec. 8 in all territories where Netflix is available.

The Crown, a Netflix original series, tells the inside story of Queen Elizabeth II’s reign, as the fragile social order established after the Second World War breaks apart. Based on the awardwinning play, The Audience, the series reunites creator/writer Peter Morgan (The Queen, Frost/Nixon) with director Stephen Daldry (Billy Elliot, The Hours) and producer Andy Harries (The Queen).

Beginning with soldiers in Her Majesty’s Armed Forces fighting an illegal war in Egypt, and ending with the downfall of her third Prime Minister, Harold Macmillan after a devastating scandal, the second season bears witness to the end of the age of deference, and

ushers in the revolutionary era of the 1960s.

The Crown continues to chronicle the major political and global events that have defined and shaped the second half of the twentieth century - a series that is unprecedented in its scale, ambition and creative vision.

The show’s first season won two Golden Globe awards, both for Best Television Series-Drama and Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series Drama (Claire Foy) and has also been nominated for 10 Emmy Awards.

Visit the show’s official social pages: Twitter: @TheCrownNetflix; FB: www.fb.com/TheCrownNetflix and Instagram: @thecrownnetflix Check first trailer release here - h t t p s : / / w w w. y o u t u b e . c o m / watch?v=k__5x41JOak

TODAY, The World of Gandang Ricky Reyes (TWGRR) continues stories of real women who will inspire you to live life bravely despite tough situations.

Paying it forward to kids who love to sing, Ms. Glad put up her own music studio so she could pass on to them her love and passion for music.

With the help of peanuts, Pao Santos was able to lift their status in life. With a lot of hard work, patience and determination, he was able to establish Locca Nuts, his own concoction of peanut snacks.

Find out how Nanay Normita, a diabetic whose feet was about to be amputated, was rescued by the magic mineral Magnesium.

TWGRR visits 1998 Metropop Music Festival placer Xaxa Manalo and finds out what she is up to today.

Senator Cynthia Villar, also considered as Mrs. Hanapbuhay extends help to the less fortunate through the Villar Sipag Foundation, creating livelihood opportunities to alleviate poverty.

Snail Serum and Hair Booster for hair are now available in all GRR Salons. To reconstruct and revitalize your hair, try Cryo Hair Therapy while SoftWave Treatment gives shine to dull hair and The Twist gives curly hair ends.

Open your own salon after graduating from the Ricky Reyes Learning Institute (RRLI) with branches in Anonas, Cubao, Quiapo, Fairview and San Jose Del Monte Bulacan.

Tune in to The World of Gandang Ricky Reyes (TWGRR) today 9 a.m. on GMA News TV.

TWGRR host Ricky Reyes (right) with Senator Cynthia Villar