Manila Standard - 2017 September 7 - Thursday

US may deport 10,000 Pinoys THE Department of Foreign Affairs said Wednesday it will assist an estimated 10,000 Filipinos who might be deported as a result of Washington’s decision to rescind a program that allowed undocumented immigrant children to stay

legally in the United States.

(Related story on A6) “We will authorize with certain limitations the use of the Assistance to Nationals Fund and the Legal Assistance Fund to assist immigration-related cases such as those arising from the

decision of President Trump to revoke the Deferred Action on Childhood Arrivals or DACA,” Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter S. Cayetano said.

Cayetano issued the statement shortly after Next page

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Arnaiz’s pal found dead Stabbed 30 times, thrown on a creek

By Francisco Tuyay, Jun David, Rey E. Requejo and Macon Ramos-Araneta

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OURTEEN-YEAR-OLD Reynaldo de Guzman, the companion of slain Carl Angelo Arnaiz, was found floating in a creek in Gapan, Nueva Ecija Tuesday morning, 19 days after he went missing.

VICTIM’S COMPANION. Reynaldo de Guzman, the 14-year-old teener (inset) last seen accompanying Carl Angelo Arnaiz, the teenager killed by cops in Caloocan City, has been found dead with 30 stab wounds in Gapan, Nueva Ecija, 105 kms away from their house in Cainta, Rizal. He was last seen with Arnaiz on Aug.17 to buy midnight snacks near their house in Cainta. Arnaiz’s body was found 10 days after at a morgue in Caloocan City, allegedly killed in a shootout in Caloocan City after purportedly robbing a taxi driver.

De Guzman’s body bore 30 stab wounds and his face was wrapped in masking tape when it was found at the Kinamatayan Kabayo Creek in Brgy. San Roque at 11 a.m. Tuesday.

De Guzman’s parents identified the body at the funeral parlor in Gapan town.

“They killed the boy mercilessly,” said Reynaldo’s mother, Lina Gabriel, in Filipino, tears trickling down her face as she lifted

the cloth cover of his body.

“They riddled him with stab wounds.”

The boy’s father, Ed, said they identified the body through a mark on his leg and a wart on his knee.

They learned about their son’s whereabouts through a tip from a friend on social media.

Lina said Reynaldo left their home in Cainta, Rizal, to have a midnight snack with Arnaiz on Aug. 17.

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Drug war flawed? Bishop sees no end to slays

By Vito Barcelo, John Paolo Bencito and Macon RamosAraneta A CATHOLIC bishop expressed fear Wednesday that more young people would be killed if the government won’t change its hardline approach to the problem of ille-

gal drugs.

Caloocan Bishop Pablo Virgilio David said the government’s anti-drug war was naïve, seriously flawed, and needs serious evaluation and rethinking.

He said the killings of 19-year-old Carlo Angelo Arnaiz and 17-year-old Kian Loyd delos Santos were not

isolated cases as the police claimed.

“If they don’t stop the killing, we’ll have more Kians and Carlos,” said David, who is also the incoming vice president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines.

Police said Arnaiz robbed a taxi driver in the city before

engaging them in a shootout.

However, an autopsy revealed that Arnaiz was tortured and handcuffed before he was shot to death.

“The case of Carl Angelo Arnaiz was murder, plain and simple except that it was committed by our law enforcers.

That gives a chilling effect,” David said.

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Lawyers warn Congress of impeachment misuse

SERENO

THE Integrated Bar of the Philippines on Wednesday urged Congress not to abuse its impeachment power against officials of constitutional bodies as it gears to begin the proceedings against Chief Justice Ma. Lourdes Sereno and Commission on Elections chairman Andres Bautista.

The 55-000 strong man-

datory organization of lawyers warned that an abuse of the impeachment process would be unconstitutional.

“It is an assault upon the Constitution and the very ideal of limited government that is enshrined in it when impeachment is misused as the very tool to undermine judicial independence,” IBP national president Abdiel

Dan Elijah Fajardo said in a statement.

“May we express the hope that impeachment as a process is not being brandished as a weapon of submission, thereby defeating constitutional design that the judicial branch be insulated from considerations other than the facts and the law in Next page

Duterte: Paolo can hold his own at Senate Rody won’t PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte has able to handle his problems all on fall for Iloilo said he will not interfere in the cas- his own, adding “he has his own es involving his son, Davao City lawyer; he’s about 38, 37 years old. pol’s ‘antics’ Vice Mayor Paolo Duterte, and his He’s old enough to know and he son-in-law, Manases Carpio in the runup to their appearance today at the Senate which is conducting an inquiry into the P6.4-billion shabu mess that slipped past the Bureau of Customs.

Speaking to reporters Wednesday, the President said his son should be

can take care of his problem.”

“I do not speculate. I do not give him advice. I just said, ‘if you are really innocent, why don’t you go to the Senate?’” he added.

Duterte said he had to be very careful to avoid creating an unnecNext page essary impression.

PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte told Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog that he would never be fooled by the latter’s antics after he supposedly offered a Next page

By John Paolo Bencito

from the 118th base command patrolling an area once held by ISIS militants in Datu Salibo town in Maguindanao. The military, firing artillery shells and rockets, is supporting mainstream Muslim rebels in a deadly fight against radical militants who support the Islamic State group. AFP

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DESPITE explicit prohibitions for government officials and employees to visit casinos, Communications Assistant Secretary Margaux “Mocha” Uson has continued to perform regularly at a popular resort-casino in Pasay City.

Netizens were quick to point out Uson’s possible violations of Memorandum Circular No. 06, signed by Next page

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of slain teenager Carl, killed in what police called a shootout with them after allegedly robbing a taxi driver on Aug. 17, an allegation denied by kin and witnesses. The President assured the parents, accompanied by Public Attorney’s Office chief Persida Rueda-Acosta, that a thorough and impartial investigation would be conducted by authorities. Malacañang Photo

Another ‘leftist’ in Cabinet fails congressional scrutiny

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

Mocha bucks casino ban

DEADLY FIGHT. This photo, taken on Tuesday, shows Moro Islamic Liberation Front rebels

THOROUGH PROBE. President Rodrigo Duterte meets with Carlito and Eva Arnaiz, parents

THE Commission on Appointments on Wednesday rejected the confirmation of Rafael Mariano as secretary of the Department of Agrarian Reform, the second leftist in the Cabinet of President Rodrigo Duterte to get the nod.

Mariano is expected to to vacate his office immediately following his rejection by the bicameral body. He is also the fourth member of Duterte’s official family who failed to win confirmation.

The same body had dismissed the

appointments of then Foreign Secretary Perfecto Yasay Jr., Environment secretary Regina Lopez and Social Welfare secretary Judy Taguiwalo.

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MARIANO REJECTED. Agrarian Reform Secretary-designate Rafael Vitriolo Mariano raises a clenched fist Wednesday after the Commision on Appointments rejected his confirmation as secretary of the Department of Agrarian Reform, the second ‘leftist’ in the Duterte Cabinet who failed to get the nod of members of the powerful body. Ey Acasio

China planted flag on PH isle, Magdalo says A STAUNCH critic of President Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday revealed the presence of a Chinese fishing vessel that planted a Chinese flag near Philippinecontrolled Kota Island.

Magdalo Party-list Rep. Gary Alejano said he had received another information that it was a Chinese fishing vessel with Bow Number 23168 that planted the flag.

“The information came from the same informant who reported the presence of a Chinese flotilla on Pagasa Island, which was later on admitted by the Philippine and Chinese governments,” said Alejano, a former marine officer.

Two weeks ago, he said a Chinese flag mounted on a three-meter high steel pipe was planted by a Chinese

vessel on a sandbar seven nautical miles northeast off Kota Island towards the end of July. The sandbar is part of the network of sandbars, coral reefs and atolls between Kota and Panata Islands occupied and controlled by the Philippines.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Cayetano earlier said the incident was not a cause Next page for concern.

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Immunity for Marcoses nixed

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PPOSITION lawmakers on Wednesday took exception to President Rodrigo Duterte’s statement that the family of the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos might ask for immunity from suit once they returned their alleged illgotten wealth to the Philippine government.

In a statement, Akbayan Party-list Rep. Tom Villarin said giving immunity to the Marcos family would be wrong.

“Enacting a law giving immunity to the Marcoses would give a wrong signal that committing a crime will pay off in the end as justice is negotiable by the pow-

ers that be,” Villarin said.

“The irony is that not a single individual from the Marcoses and their cronies have been put to jail and finally, through legislative fiat, their sins are extinguished and their family names polished without a blemish.”

Villarin made his statement

even as Vice President Leni Robredo said the Marcoses must first confess to stealing billions from government coffers before any talk of resolving the pending cases against them could begin.

She made her statement VP Leni after President Rodrigo Duterte said the members of the Marcos family were willing to “open everything and hopefully return” some of their wealth to the government.

In an interview after attending the 55th anniversary of Metropolitan Bank and Trust Co. on Tuesday, Duterte said the Marcoses would not be willing to return their alleged ill-gotten wealth if they would be detained.

“We have to craft a law on that, and that [will give them] immunity,” he said.

But Villarin said returning all the Marcoses’ ill-gotten wealth would not put closure to the atrocities of martial law.

Ifugao Rep. Teddy Baguilat said immunity was often reserved for people who were less guilty.

“Here, the persons to be immunized are the direct perpetrators or conspirators at the least,” Baguilat said.

“And now that they admit having stolen wealth from the people and managed to stash it away despite massive government efforts to recover, they are also obstructors of justice.”

Baguilat said if Duterte were to push his idea, it was better to just abandon all concepts of law and justice.

“I can steal anything from anyone, make money out of it for awhile, then offer to return and get amnesty for it. Heck, I may even be buried as a hero,” he said.

“But this is more than just the money. It’s about justice and accountability for the crimes against the people during martial law―the killings, the torture, the suppression of freedoms and the degradation of our democratic institutions.”

Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman said giving immunity to the Marcoses would be a “mockery of justice.”

Health warns of spike in dengue, other diseases

By Macon Ramos-Araneta THE Department of Health said Wednesday mosquito-borne diseases like the Japanese Encephalitis, which had reached 133 cases as of August 26, could spike.

Health Secretary Pauline Ubial said many areas in the Philippines could see more JE in the coming weeks, adding local government units should step up their reporting of suspected JE cases.

She said her department was now firming up plans to introduce JE vaccination among children next year as soon as data supported it. Right now there was no known benefit of the vaccine when given during the peak season.

“The [department] cautions private practitioners not to offer JE vaccines during this period,” Ubial said.

As with dengue, JE prevention should focus on destroying of mosquito breeding sites.

JE is a viral disease characterized by inflammation of the brain or encephalitis. Most of the people who get infected do not show

symptoms five to 15 days after being bitten by a mosquito.

The signs and symptoms of the disease include fever, chills, headache, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, confusion and, in severe cases, neck stiffness, seizures, paralysis and coma, which may lead to death.

Ubial said severe cases would require prompt hospitalization.

Those who recover from severe illness may still show signs of neurologic complications such as paralysis, recurrent seizures or inability to speak.

The virus is passed on to humans through a bite of a dayand night-biting mosquito.

These mosquitoes commonly thrive in rural and agricultural areas, and in the urban areas they surround houses with water storage containers.

“I urge the public to take JE preventive measures following the 4-S against Dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases,” Ubial said.

These include getting rid of standing water, maintaining environmental cleanliness and eliminating potential breeding places of mosquitoes.

IN MOURNING. Relatives and classmates of teenager Carl Arnaiz, who was shot and killed after he allegedly

robbed a taxi driver at gunpoint on Aug. 17, cry as they attend mass ahead of Arnaiz’s burial at the Mater Dolorosa Parish in Manila on Sept. 5, 2017. Authorities said Sept. 4 they would investigate allegations police tortured and murdered a second teenager following an earlier killing that sparked the largest street protests so far against President Rodrigo Duterte’s war on drugs. AFP

President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday he is revoking the DACA program and gave the US Congress up to March 5, 2018 to come up with a law that would prevent the deportation of as many as 800,000 people cov-

ered by the program.

At the same time, Cayetano called on members of the Filipino community in the US, particularly those affected by the change in policy, to remain hopeful and actively support efforts for the passage of legislation that would benefit those enrolled in DACA. “While we hope for the best in

the form of a legislative solution, those affected should likewise prepare for the worse,” Cayetano said, adding that other possible legal options for the affected Filipinos should also be explored.

“In any event, we are ready to welcome and assist our kababayans in whatever way we can if they returned to the Philippines,” he said.

“The true criminals remain at large, flooding the country with tons of illegal drugs because corruption in government agencies remains unchecked,” David added.

President Rodrigo Duterte insisted Wednesday that he never ordered policemen to kill children in the name of his bloody drug war, as he vowed to pursue cases against cops involved in the killing of 19-year-old Arnaiz.

In his speech, Duterte vowed that he will not condone scalawag cops but insisted that police operations should be presumed to be undertaken with regularity.

“I never ordered the killings of

children or adults and even the enemy on bended knees. That is not the norm or rule of a democracy,” Duterte said in his speech during the 60th Anniversary of the Social Security System.

“I would never, never condone or allow it,” he added.

The President said that while he would protect soldiers and policemen, “there should always be the element of performance of duty and you do not kill defenseless persons.”

“I’m sorry, but I will pursue the case against policemen and if need be, they will go to jail,” Duterte added.

Despite the intense criticism, Duterte said his anti-drug war would protect children.

“I have [made] mistakes, faults many—EJK [extrajudicial killings], of course we do not like it. But if I do not control drugs, I will put the next generation in jeopardy,” Duterte said.

Earlier in the day, Duterte met with Arnaiz is parents at Malacañang Park and assured them justice would be done.

The President, who arrived past 3:00 p.m. Wednesday, talked with the parents and sister of Carl Angelo for about 20 minutes.

Land Cruiser and traveling on first-class flights.

The complainants also cited as basis Sereno’s order in 2012 to reopen a regional constitutional administrative office in Cebu without the collegial approval of the Court, which was later on revoked by the SC. The complaint against Bautista, on the other hand, was filed by former Negros Oriental representative Jacinto Paras and lawyer Ferdinand Topacio.

It alleged that the poll chief acquired assets beyond his income as public official and was liable for the breach in voters’ data before the elections last year.

The VACC is reportedly set to file an impeachment complaint against Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales. Rey E. Requejo and Maricel V. Cruz with Rio N. Araja which he now serves, and the “left center” forces from whose ranks he came.

Furthermore, Sotto said members were also counting on him to be the best surrogate for the President to genuinely identify and relate the serious concerns of farmers like him, but without losing sight of the equally valid interests of the landowners.

With John Paolo Bencito and Bill Casas

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“I would leave it [the case] to the lawyers. Because if I give an expectation, media will begin to speculate. I have to be very careful,” Duterte said.

On Saturday, the President said he would advise his son and his son-in-law to appear before the Senate if they were invited to hearings on corruption at the Bureau of Customs.

But the President said their presence would not help opposition Senator Antonio Trillanes IV prove his case because they could always invoke their right to remain silent.

Meanwhile, Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada directed the Manila Police District to neutralize the sources of drugs still finding their way to the capital, which the city police suspect was part of the P6.4-billion drug shipment smuggled out of BoC last May. Citing a report by MPD director Chief Supt. Joel Coronel, Estrada said the local demand for drugs, especially shabu, was still high amid the city police’s concerted anti-drug operations in the past weeks.

“This is quite alarming. Drugs from outside sources continue to arrive in our city. We have to trace its origins and neutralize it in soonest possible time,” Estrada said as he relayed his instructions to Coronel. John Paolo Bencito and Bill Casas

Arnaiz’s body was found by his parents at a funeral home in Caloocan City on Aug. 28, 10 days after he had gone missing.

The bishop is calling for an investigation into the thousands of other drug-related deaths, and said the drug war has created a climate of impunity.

He lauded the current efforts to probe the killings but said is hoping “they do it not just for Carl and Kian but for countless other victims of this brutal drug war.”

discharging its function of adjudication,” the IBP said.

While impeachment is one of the tools in the Constitution to exact accountability, Fajardo said its frequent use could dilute its power and strain the limited power of Congress.

“Impeachment is a scalpel, not a broadsword and even if it were the latter, no sword retains its sharpness if swung too far and too often,” the lawyers’ group said.

The IBP also reminded Congress that the Constitution “jealously protects the independence of the judiciary as it is concededly the weakest of all three branches of government. As the unelected branch, the judiciary’s sole stand-

ard of action is the rule of law rather than the public pulse.”

Lastly, the IBP vowed to “closely and impartially monitor the proceedings with the view that our institutions are preserved, not diluted.”

Two impeachment complaints have been filed against Sereno before the House of Representatives by the Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption and the Vanguard of the Philippine Constitution Inc. and lawyer Larry Gadon.

The complaints have already been endorsed by 41 members of the House.

Sereno is accused of culpable violation of the Constitution and betrayal of public trust over alleged undisclosed assets in her statement of asset, liabilities and net worth and extravagant spending of judicial funds by purchasing a P5-million Toyota

Another...

Region XI, and numerous documents, to inquire into all the issues on his impartiality, objectivity, conflicts of interest and adherence to the rule of law.

“Members asked probing and tough questions of Secretary Mariano, with a view towards eliciting his core beliefs and principles, in order to determine how he sees his role as secretary of the Department, which is critical to the successful implementation

of government’s agrarian reform program,” said Sotto, also chairman of the Senate committee on agrarian reform.

During the hearings, Sotto said members had expressed hope that Mariano, being a true farmer and having been nominated by the National Democraric Front and its allied organizations, would be the perfect candidate to serve as bridge betwen the Duterte administration,

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Senate Majorty Leader Vicente Sotto III said 13 votes were reached to reject Mariano’s appoinrment after three hearings to consider 24 endorsements, 11 oppositions, one joint resolution on the Regional Development Council- Regional Peace and Order Council (RDC-RPOC),

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P1-million bounty for the arrest of Iloilo top drug lord Richard Prevendido, who was recently shot dead by authorities.

In a speech laden with profanities Tuesday night during the 55th anniversary of Metrobank in Taguig City, Duterte said Mabilog’s bounty on Prevendido was only meant to flatter the President.

The President said his belief that Mabilog condoned the illegal drug trade in Western Visayas would not change, despite the latter’s apparent effort to help the authorities.

Prevendido was killed in a shootout with policemen in Iloilo City’s Jaro district Sept. 1 last week.

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But Alejano said there had been more incidents detrimental to the interest of the country, which had not come out in the open because Philippine government officials had opted to reveal them.

On Aug. 29, Alejano said the Armed Forces admitted there was indeed such incident, but that no flag was found but instead a sack

Arnaiz’s...

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Supt. Peter Madria, chief of police of Gapan, said initial investigation showed De Guzman’s body bore no bullet wounds, and had not yet decomposed, suggesting he was killed just hours before his remains were discovered.

No personal belongings were found on his body, but he was wearing orange shorts with the word “Batman” when he was found.

Madria said residents heard a sound of a vehicle stop in the same area where the body of De Guzman was found and heard something being dumped in the water and assumed it was garbage.

Madria said the area where the body of De Guzaman was found is near a remote interior road, perpendicular to the highway of Brgy. San Roque.

De Guzman, a Grade 5 pupil at Maybunga Elementary School in Pasig City, was eating in their house in Brgy. San Andres, Cainta, Rizal at 10 p.m. on Aug. 17, when he suddenly left, Lina Gabriel said.

She said her son’s friends told her that they saw De Guzman go out with Arnaiz about 1 a.m. to buy food at a noodle house.

About two hours later, Arnaiz was killed, allegedly in a shootout with Caloocan police, after he supposedly robbed 54-year-old taxi driver Tomas Bagcal at gunpoint.

His parents found Arnaiz’s body 10 days later in a morgue in Caloocan City. The Public Attorney’s Office said it showed signs of torture.

The killing of Arnaiz and De Guzman follows the death of another teenager, Grade 11 student Kian Loyd delos Santos, during a police operation in Caloocan City.

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Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, ordering the strict compliance by government officials on the prohibition against going to gambling casinos.

Several photos and videos posted in social networking site Facebook suggest Uson has been visiting Resorts World Manila’s Bar 360, a popular entertainment complex in Pasay City at least weekly—performing and taking selfies with fans on June 28 (Wednesday), Aug. 15 (Tuesday), Aug. 30 (Sunday), and recently, Sept. 5 (Tuesday).

No social media posts, however, have shown Uson and members of the Mocha Girls doing gambling activities, an act prohibited by law under Section 46 (b), Chapter 7, Subtitle A, Title I, Book V of Executive Order No. 292 Mabilog had earlier claimed half of the million-peso bounty for Prevendido’s neutralization, while the other half was offered by the provincial government of Iloilo.

In the same interview, Duterte claimed he never placed Ozamiz City chief Police Inspector Jovie Espenido.

“Look, I did not say that you should be there as a chief of police,” he said.

Duterte initially assigned Espenido to Iloilo City, but his reassignment did not push through for lacking the qualifications to handle Iloilo City, a highly-urbanized city.

Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police has been given more time to refute the denial made

by Cebu-based businessman Peter Lim on drug trading charges it filed against him. John Paolo Bencito and Rey Requejo placed on a pole that could have served as markers by those who had planted it there.

“I understand the predicament of the AFP. They cannot go against the policy of the president.

Those who removed the flag will not report it as a Chinese flag if it was just a sack,” Alejano said.

“I am not against China. I support talking with China but it should not be at the expense of our interest in the West Philippine Sea.” Maricel V. Cruz

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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2017 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

BoC seizes misdeclared goods

By Vito Barcelo

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HE Bureau of Customs seized more than P19 million worth smuggled luxury cars, auto spare parts, onions and carrots at the Manila International Container Port.

Customs Commissioner Isidro Lapeña said the bureau confiscated two luxury cars, auto parts, red and white onions, car-

rots and other agricultural products which came from China and Hong Kong.

“The two Mercedes Benz’s, wheels and tires

came from Hong Kong while five containers of red and white onions, carrots and other agricultural products came from mainland China,” he said.

The car shipment was shipments consigned to Juljerjac Trading while the agricultural products were imported by V2Y International Marketing Co. “The shipment’s declaration said it contains fresh

garlic and apples, however, upon examination, red and white onions, carrots, and garlic were found inside the container vans,” MICP district collector Vincent Philip Maronilla said.

The declared garlic was covered by a valid import permit from the Bureau of Plant and Industry while the red and white onions and carrots were misdeclared and did not have an

import permit, prompting the BoC to issue a warrant and seizure for detention.

“The consignee, V2Y International Marketing Co., wrote a letter informing Customs Intelligence that the shipments do not belong to them,” said Lapeña, citing a report.

“This is actually a protection to our farmers since they also produce red on-

ion. Importing onions is regulated by law because they will be a strong competitor to our local farmers who also produce onion.

For the carrot, it will also be seized for misdeclaration,” Lapeña said.

“It’s such a waste. However, we cannot set aside the health and safety of the public so this will be destroyed by the bureau,” Lapeña added.

P51b set in 1st year of free tuition law

By John Paolo Bencito billion and the CommisAROUND P51 billion will be needed to implement President Rodrigo Duterte’s Free Tuition Law within its first year of implementation, Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno said Wednesday as they proposed for a national entrance examination for aspiring enrollees in state universities and colleges.

“We, at the DBM, are proposing that a national entrance examination be administered to ensure meritbased admission to public Higher Education Institutions [HEIs],” Diokno said.

The move will be on top of the tightening admission and retention policies in HEIs, which is expected to further trim down the number of students enrolled in SUCs. The amount for the free tuition bill will be much lower than DBM’s earlier appreciation of the bill at P100 billion, and higher than Malacanang’s P16

sion on Higher Education’s P34.1 billion.

The Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (RA 10931), which was signed into law by President Duterte last Aug. 3, will cover 8 State Universities and Colleges in Metro Manila, 49 in the rest of Luzon, 26 in the Visayas, and 29 in Mindanao, as well as CHED-accredited Local Universities and Colleges and Tesda-run Technical Vocational Institutions.

The law will exempt all enrolled students from 2018 onwards from paying tuition, miscellaneous and other school fees such as registration fees, laboratory fees, among others, Diokno said.

Another component of the law is the Tertiary Education Subsidy which will provide allowance for books, school supplies, transportation, and miscellaneous personal expenses to select student beneficiaries.

Ex-solon in PDAF scam indicted THE Office of the Ombudsman has indicted a former Bulacan representative for involvement in the pork barrel fund scam.

The Ombudsman ordered the filing of three counts of graft charges and three counts of malversation of public funds against Ma. Victoria Sy-Alvarado before the Sandiganbayan.

Also charged were officials of the Department of Social Welfare and Development in Region III, Minda Brigoli, Adelina Apostol, Mely Pangilinan and Maria Piedra, and Nestor Custodio, Cooperative Rural Bank of Bulacan general manager.

According to the Ombudsman, the charges were the first noted Priority Development Assistance Fund-related case that involved a private financial entity, the rural bank headed

by Custodio that became the recipient of a portion of Alvarado’s 2007 pork barrel fund. Rio N. Araja

BI agents arrest Korean fugitive

HOT ONIONS. Bureau of Customs agents unload a container of smuggled red and white onions they seized at the Manila International Container Port. Norman Cruz

US pledge Group presses for stricter testing of cement imports to return Balangiga bells hailed MALACAÑANG on Wednesday welcomed the commitment expressed by the United States for the return of the Balangiga bells and their initiative for additional funds to help in the recovery efforts of Marawi.

“The Philippines has been working for the rightful return of Balangiga bells to the country for many years,” Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said.

“The statement of US Ambassador Sung Kim that ‘the return on the Balangiga bells is the right thing to do’ therefore is a welcome gesture,” he added.

Abella said that the return of the war-time bells is important to the country’s best interests.

“The Balangiga bells form part of our national heritage and the return of these historical relics is important for our national pride, as these bells are reminders of the gallantry and heroism of our forebears,” Duterte’s spokesperson added.

On Tuesday, Kim said Washington was committed to bringing the bells back to the Philippines after being non-committal for more than a decade.

In his last State of the Nation Address, Duterte, a vocal critic of Washington, demanded the return of the relics.

In a separate statement, Abella likewise welcomed fresh donations of $14.3 million or P730 million to finance emergency relief and recovery assistance for the communities affected by the ongoing conflict in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur and the surrounding areas.

“We welcome the assistance of the United States to finance emergency relief and recovery efforts for the areas affected by the Marawi rebellion,” Abella said.

IN BRIEF

THE Philippine Cement Importers Association is pushing for stricter quality tests to prevent the entry of substandard or defective cement into the domestic market.

In a statement, the PCIA expressed strong support for the Bureau of Philippine Standards' new Department Administrative Order concerning mandatory certification of cement products, saying that the draft DAO is consistent with the International Organization for Standardization where the Philippines is a member and with the Key Principles and Obligations of the International Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade administered by the World Trade Organization.

PCIA executive director Dani Enriquez said his group recommends that aside from the Product Quality/ Standard License requirement for cement importers, a pre-shipment testing at the port of origin should be done as it prevents poor quality products from reaching the country.

“If the imported cement products are brought in and tested in the Philippines as proposed by some sectors, what happens if they fail the standards test” Enriquez asked.

“What guarantees do we have that they will be shipped back to their country of origin? Unscrupulous importers who are bound to lose hundreds of millions will definitely find a way to

smuggle into the market these substandard cement which will be easy since the products are already here in the Philippines,” Enriquez pointed out.

“The claim of some local cement manufacturers that the new DAO proposes diminution of the minimum quality standards is false and baseless.

All Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-BPS DAO’s concerning Product Quality Standards and Testing methodologies are based on Philippine National Standards [PNS] and ISO,” Enriquez said.

“No industry group has a monopoly when it comes to concerns about consumer welfare and protection. That is why we are recommending additional

safeguards, such as the pre-shipment test and a 10 percent surety bond for every shipment on top of the mandatory requirements,” the PCIA head emphasized.

“In actual practice, when cement is tested at the country of origin and if ever cement fails the quality test, they are simply rejected by the trader and replaced by good ones. This is also assured since the trader will not allow withdrawal from the Letter of Credit issued. In addition, the BPS in its new DAO intends to conduct a redundant product verification test to counter-check the pre-shipment test report. Inarguably, pre-shipment testing prevents poor quality cement from landing in the Philippines,” Enriquez said.

Universal Health Coverage Bill OKd

By Maricel V. Cruz

LIGHTNING RALLY. Members of the Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas staged a lightning rally in front of Philippine Coconut Authority in Quezon City to demand a stop of the expansion of production of palm oil in Agusan del Sur and called for the return of the coco levy fund to farmers. Manny Palmero

THE House of Representatives on Wednesday night approved on third and final reading the Universal Health Coverage bill by a 222-7 vote.

This developed as Kabayan Party-list Rep. Harry Roque, a member of the House minority bloc, said the passage of House Bill 5784 was an “opportunity for change”for a better health system.

“It is our duty and responsibility to see the enactment of this bill that gives spirit to the right to health of the people and I am very happy that today we took a giant step forward to realizing this,” Roque, one of the authors of the bill, said.

“This bill is groundbreaking because with it, every Filipino is granted the right to health by virtue of citizenship. It provides health security to Filipi-

nos not because they can pay premiums, but simply because they are Filipinos,” he added.

Roque said one of the key features of HB 4784 is that it enables all individuals and communities to receive the full spectrum of health services they need, from health promotion to prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and palliative care.

“This includes inpatient, outpatient, and emergency care services encompassing preventive, promotive, curative, rehabilitative, and palliative medical, dental, and mental health services,” Roque said.

“In short, UHC enables everyone to access the services that address the most important causes of disease and death, and ensures that the quality of those services is good enough to improve the health of the people to receive them,” he added.

Solons to go after builders of substandard houses for ‘Yolanda’ victims LAWMAKERS will conduct a series of investigations to determine the officials of government agencies as well as other involved in the alleged multimillion irregularities in the construction of houses for victims of Typhoon “Yolanda.”

Negros Occidental Rep. Alfredo Benitez, chairman of the House committee on housing

and urban development, said his panel would conduct a joint investigation with the House committee on good government and public accountability, “to get all the facts and make necessary recommendations” against individuals responsible for the housing units in the towns of Hernani and Belangiga which were reportedly built

using substandard construction materials.

“This is a double-whammy for the Yolanda victims. They have already experienced the great tragedy, dadagdagan pa ng ganito,” Benitez said at a news conference.

At the same time, Benitez said the National Housing Authority should explain why

it allowed the sub-contracting policy of the housing units and allegedly favored one contractor whom he identified as JC Tayag.

This developed as Leyte Rep. Yedda Marie KittilstvedtRomualdez supported the efforts of her fellow legislators to hold responsible the parties involved in the anomalies.

“How can you take advantage of people during disasters? Those responsible behind the supposed substandard housing projects and other irregularities should be held liable. They should not make business out of the sufferings of Yolanda victims,” Kittilstvedt-Romualdez said.

Maricel V. Cruz

A KOREAN fugitive wanted for swindling and trading scam was nabbed by immigration agents in Las Piñas City, according to Immigration Commissioner Jaime Morente.

The Korean, identified as Kim Youngho, was arrested by operatives from the bureau’s fugitive search unit at his residence in Barangay Almanza Uno, Las Piñas City.

Kim is now detained at the BI jail in Camp Bagong Diwa, Taguig, and will be deported to Korea where he is wanted by authorities for the crime of embezzlement.

The Korean was the subject of an Interpol red notice which stemmed from an arrest warrant that a Korean court issued against him.

“We will deport him as he poses a risk to public safety and security. We should not allow foreign fugitives like him to use our country as a refuge and evade punishment for their crimes,” Morente said. Vito Barcelo

i-ACT reactivated, scope widened THE government has reactivated the Inter-Agency Council on Traffic (i-ACT) and expanded its scope of operations from Metro Manila to the nearby provinces of Laguna, Cavite, Bulacan and Rizal.

The revitalized and reinforced i-ACT, to be headed

by Metro Manila Development Authority general manager Thomas Orbos, was relaunched on Wednesday at the MMDA Sports Center in Makati City.

“Last year, i-ACT focused on Metro Manila alone. This time, we included the nearby peripheries of the National Capital Region, as traffic situation in these areas greatly affects the traffic condition in the metropolis,” said Orbos, who is a concurrent Department of Transportation undersecretary for Road Transport and Infrastructure. Joel E. Zurbano

‘More inmates in jails alarming’ SENATOR Ralph Recto said the rapid rise in inmate population is putting a strain on state resources as taxpayers cough up P81,732 to feed, house, and guard one Bureau of Jail Management and Penology inmate annually.

He said inmate population in 466 jails in the country run by the BJMP soared to 142,282 by end of June, doubling since 2013, or in just 42 months.

“And the BJMP is just one of the three agencies holding prisoners,” Recto pointed out.

The Bureau of Corrections keeps watch over 41,258 sentenced felons in eight penitentiaries, while Philippine National Police runs 458 town jails in addition to precinctlevel “holding cells.” Macon Ramos-Araneta

A4

Opinion

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2017

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Adelle Chua, Editor

EDITORIAL

Hush now, general

O

UR idea of a national police chief is somebody who is calm, resolute, stable, and only sparingly wears his heart on his sleeve.

He stands by his decisions and assumes responsibility for everything that might go wrong.

He is not prone to histrionics, and does not invoke a higher authority when his actions come under fire.

He, too, would know his worth and would know when he is being effective, and when he no longer inspires confidence and respect among those he is mandated to

protect.

Philippine National Police Director General Ronald dela Rosa cried again during a Senate hearing Tuesday as he claimed there was never a policy to kill drug suspects, much less innocent individuals.

“We are willing to die for the innocent. It is not correct to say that there is a policy for widespread killing. God is there. He sees. He knows,” he said.

The police sparked outrage among the people following the deaths of at least three teenagers: 17-year-old Kian delos Santos and 19-year-old Carl Arnaiz at the hands of Caloocan Police, and now 14-year-old

Reynaldo de Guzman, whose body was found floating in a river in Nueva Ecija on Wednesday.

In his Senate appearance, Dela Rosa tearfully pointed out that he was also seeking justice for the cops who are doing their jobs and who put their lives on the line.

“And yet you accuse us of having this policy. That hurts,” he said.

We hate to break it to Mr. Dela Rosa, but nobody really cares about his feelings.

He had been hurt many times before: When his men killed a Korean businessman right in police headquarters in Camp Crame, and when he relieved the regional head

of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group only to have the President reinstate him. The most he did was scold some cops, make them do push ups and threaten to send them to Mindanao.

Obviously Dela Rosa’s job is not for the faint of heart or the weak of will. We wonder thus where he gets the gall to cling to his post and be the face of an institution that evokes fear instead of security.

Dela Rosa should stop the drama.

The more he cries, the more we think he’s just a clown. What we truly care about is having a police force that makes us feel safe, not petrified.

DUTY CALLS FLORENCIO FIANZA

Hard to reform

A Red-free Cabinet LOWDOWN

JOJO A. ROBLES WATCH for the return of Rafael “Ka Paeng” Mariano to a protest venue near you soon, as he reverts to his old, familiar role. The Commission on Appointments, once a mere rubber stamp for appointees of Malacañang Palace, has claimed yet another victim in the firebrand farmer-activist, whose exit represents the end of the always-shaky relationship between the Duterte administration and the homegrown Communists.

I had hoped that the CA would give Mariano a pass and confirm him as secretary of agrarian reform.

I thought Congress would allow Mariano to stay in the Cabinet after it had defied predictions—and even

common sense—by rejecting the respected and wellliked Judy Taguiwalo as secretary of social welfare and development.

But there is to be no tokenism in the Duterte Cabinet.

Taguiwalo and Mariano, both nominees of the Left, have fallen, the victims of the newly-assertive commission and what some see as a rightist, anti-communist faction in the administration.

(A third leftist in high government office, former Gabriela Party-list Rep. Lisa Maza, remains head of the Presidential Anti-Poverty Commission. Maza is safe, for now, but only because she need not go before the CA for confirmation of her sub-Cabinet position.)

It is only fair, at this point, to conclude that President Rodrigo Duterte had become convinced that both Taguiwalo and Mariano

should not be confirmed.

And the rejection of the two leftists in the Cabinet had apparently nothing to do with their performance more than one year after

The rejections have to do with the breakdown of the relationship between Duterte and the Communists.

being appointed—and everything to do with the breakdown of the oncewarm relationship between Duterte and the Philippine

Communist movement.

Mariano’s rejection, coming as it did on the heels of Taguiwalo’s, can be understood in the context of the existence of an ultra-rightist, militarist faction within the Duterte Cabinet, which has continually (if only quietly) protested the recruitment of leftists to high government office. The leaders of the defense establishment and the former high military and police officials in the administration can quite naturally be counted on to take a dim view of working with leftists, with whom they have had a long history of armed conflict.

Which is not to say, of course, that these former and current men in uniform who surround Duterte actively sought the ouster of Taguiwalo and Mariano.

They knew, more than any-

one, after all, that they were not dealing with a weak leader like Corazon Aquino, whom they could actively undermine with coup attempts after she began consorting with the Communists who helped install her in Malacanang in 1986.

They let Duterte himself come to that conclusion, after the New People’s Army kept up its depredations despite the President’s overtures of peace and reconciliation, like the Roxas night market bombing in Davao City, the ambushes on police and military units and the dozens of destructive attacks on private corporations that refused to pay their “revolutionary taxes.”

They watched as Duterte became frustrated in the lack of compromise shown

by Communist leaders led

by Jose Ma. Sison (with whom the President is still

engaged in a name-calling contest) in the Norway-brokered peace talks, which led directly to the breakdown of the negotiations. They nodded in agreement as Duterte came to rely more and more on the military to put down the IS-inspired takeover of Marawi City.

There is no way Mariano (and Taguiwalo before him) could have done anything to stop these events from happening. And now they are no longer in the Cabinet, which is finally—and probably permanently— Red-free. *** What I want to see in today’s resumption of the Senate hearings on the seizure of P6.4 billion worth of shabu through the Bureau of Customs is this: Who will backstop Senator Antonio Trillanes as he

Turn to A5

IT PAINED me to watch the Kian Loyd de los Santos Senate hearing last Tuesday. The shabby appearance and demeanor of those pot-bellied cops said it all with regard to the quality of policemen walking our streets today.

To think that both have been in the service for just two years.

PNP Director General Ronald dela Rosa and Senator Panfilo Lacson, himself a former PNP Chief, struggled to find words so as not to be insulting to the two policemen. But as they say, a picture speaks louder than a thousand words. If those policemen exemplify the kind of cops that we have in our midst, then this country is in a lot of trouble.

When I left the service, there were about 115, 000 police personnel. Today there are 175,000 according to PNP Chief Dela Rosa—and growing very fast. It stands to reason that if we cannot improve the quality of policemen real soon, we will have half-baked law enforcers wearing police uniforms and carrying guns. The public will be more afraid of instead of considering them friends and protectors.

The trouble with reform, however, is where to start and how to select the people to do what has to be done. Reforming the PNP is long and arduous work. Dela Rosa during the Senate hearing said the PNP needs to train its own recruits. This is of course true but there are other equally important issues that need changes. With the short terms of most PNP Chiefs, this does not allow for much work to be done. Any reform will have to be one step at a time until a desired objective is achieved.

Any PNP Chief should concentrate on one achievable goal and the next should do the same—and so on. Personnel management is one area. Operations is another. Training, as Bato dela Rosa also said, is very important in moulding the character of Turn to A5

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Chairman Emeritus, Editorial Board

Opinion How to make a bad situation worse Bloomberg editorial THERE are, as is often noted, no good options for dealing with North Korea.

All the more reason for the US not to make the few it does have even worse.

That’s what President Donald Trump is doing by linking the security threat posed by North Korea with his trade agenda. Irked by China’s failure to help the US rein in North Korea’s nuclear program, and having been stymied in his attempts to retaliate against Chinese steel dumping and intellectual-property infringements, he’s vowing an implausible trade war with the US’s largest trading partner. Even less rationally, the administration has dropped hints it’s about to scrap a free-trade agreement with ally South Korea.

As a negotiating strategy, Trump’s approach is utterly unsuited to the North Korean crisis. For one, it’s almost certain to fail. True, China itself has had some success using its trade clout to bully smaller nations for their support of the Dalai Lama or political dissidents.

But neither China nor any other nation is going to compromise what it sees as its security needs because of trade threats or concessions. South Korea is losing billions to an unofficial Chinese boycott targeting its deployment of a US-made missile defense system—and after the North’s latest nuclear test, President Moon Jaein agreed to expandthe system.

The US also stands to lose far more than North Korea if Trump continues down this path. Despite Trump’s claims, the free trade agreement with South Korea has caused minimal, if any, damage to the US economy. By contrast, alienating a key ally, host to nearly 30,000 US troops, would erode the US deterrent against

A Red-free...

From A4

goes, hammer and tongs, like he promised, after both presidential son Davao City Vice Mayor Paolo Duterte and presidential son-in-law Manases Carpio?

My observations actually have nothing to do with whether or not Trillanes will succeed in linking both resource persons to the narcotics shipment, which I have already concluded exist only in the senator’s fevered mind. But they will have everything to do with counting noses, when the voting on the ethics complaint against Trillanes finally happens.

See, I have this theory that not even Trillanes’ colleagues in the opposition can be relied upon to back him up when the time comes to censure him for his consistent boorish and disruptive behavior in the Senate. This

Hard...

From A4

the Police. Poor training equals ineffective policemen walking our streets.

When the local Police and the Constabulary were merged into the PNP in 1992, we who came from the Constabulary were thinking of imparting the Constabulary traditions formed after 91 years of existence but as it is, the practices of the local Police seem to have swallowed all those old practices that we old fogies from the Constabulary were all proud

North Korea, further embolden dictator Kim Jong Un, distract from China’s lax enforcement of sanctions on the North—and hurt US exporters, farmers and consumers.

It’s eminently possible to simultaneously compete on trade and cooperate on security issues.

Longstanding trade disputes haven’t prevented the US and China from achieving real gains on cybersecurity and climate change, for example. Nor have those deals stopped the US from pursuing its other interests both commercially and geopolitically.

It’s important to remember that having no good options doesn’t mean the US has no options short of war. The most viable path forward hasn’t changed: The US and its allies South Korea and Japan need to strengthen their deterrent capability.

This will require not just additional military resources but deeper intelligence-sharing, expanded missile defenses and a unified diplomatic position. And if the Treasury Department wants to cut off Chinese companies doing business with the North, it would be wise to target a high-profile firm clearly violating sanctions that China itself has approved. Efforts to spread information within North Korea and to highlight the regime’s crimes against humanity should be redoubled.

At the same time, and despite China and Russia balking at stronger United Nations sanctions, the US should be quietly discussing a coordinated diplomatic approach with China, rather than issuing threats and accusations on social media. Whatever their disagreements on trade, cooperation still holds out the best chance of achieving what both sides want: a peaceful end to the current standoff.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2017

A5

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

The Marcos wealth TO THE POINT EMIL P. JURADO IN MY over six decades as a journalist, I have never seen so many impeachment complaints being filed in so short a time!

This early into the present administration, there have been complaints against President Rodrigo Duterte, Vice President Leni Robredo, Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales, Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno and Commission on Elections Chairman Andres Bautista.

Sereno, for instance, is accused of betrayal of public trust and culpable violation of the Constitution, both broad accusations.

What would prosper against Sereno, I think, is her failure to declare in her

Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth the fees she collected when she was arbitration lawyer in Singapore for the Philippines.

If the late Chief Justice Renato Corona was convicted for the same offense, can Sereno be far behind?

And then there is the case against Comelec Chairman Bautista. This looks like a sure thing.

If Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez is to be believed, soon Sereno will be tried with no less than 100 House members ready to sign the complaint against her and endorse it to the Senate.

But can the Senate handle the trial of Sereno and Bautista at the same time?

This will mean that our senators will no longer be able to do anything related to their lawmaking function. *** What concerns me more than anything in the Presi-

dent’s war on illegal drugs is the middle class has not expressed enough outrage.

Despite the killings, there have been no real protests.

Have the people been so desensitized? Are they afraid to come out in the open?

All this talk reminds me of Operation Big Bird.

It’s a shame we don’t have a genuine opposition leader we can all believe in.

To me, this is the real tragedy of our nation. Only when there is a viable opposition can democracy survive.

*** The brouhaha over the return of the ill-gotten wealth of the Marcoses reminds me of Operation Big Bird conceived during the Cory Aquino regime.

I was privy to this because I was vice president and consultant of Mike de Guzman’s Credit Manila.

In effect it was a sting operation because it sought to obtain the consent of the late President Marcos and the former first lady Imelda Marcos who were in Honolulu at that time.

The operation was clearly a betrayal of the Marcoses who gave De Guzman and Joe Almonte letters of authority so they could contact Marcos’ Swiss lawyers for the initial release of $116 million. The Swiss bank agreed to release the first tranche of the money.

To ensure that the money would reach the Philippine

government, the deal was to the money to be deposited first at De Guzman’s bank.

On the day the bank was supposed to release the money to Sedfrey Ordoñez, he was called back to the Philippines by Presidential Commission on Good Government chairman Jovito Salonga. The reason: Salonga did not trust De Guzman and Almonte and feared they would run off with the money.

But how could they have done it since there were many safeguards in place? *** The claim of new Customs Commissioner Isidro Lapeña that 70 percent of drugs circulating nationwide does not only come through the Port of Manila but through other ports just validates what I have been saying that the drug problem will not end as long as there is supply.

Why we need the road board OVERSIGHT DANILO SUAREZ ONE of the significant laws I have co-authored is Republic Act No. 8794, also known as the “Motor Vehicle User’s Charge (MVUC) Law.” It was enacted in June 2000 to ensure proper maintenance of national and provincial roads for the safety of the motoring public. The rationale for the creation of this law is to maximize the benefits of the user’s charge payments to the motorists.

We live in a tropical country that experiences severe rains and flooding for almost half of the year.

The rain water that accu-

mulates in the road side weakens the base course, and damages the asphalt and concrete roads. We need clean and uncluttered drainages covering our entire road network to ensure that the roads remain in good condition despite the rains. It is ideal to have at least one personnel, per two kilometers of our national roads, to oversee and maintain them.

All revenues collected from the MVUC are earmarked solely and used exclusively for, 1) maintenance of roads and improvement of drainages to prevent flooding that contributes to the deterioration of asphalt and concrete roads; 2) installation of adequate and efficient traffic lights, street signs,

and other road safety devices to prevent vehicular accidents; and 3) air pollution control to prevent the adverse effects of air pollution to our respiratory health.

Under the law, a Road Board was created to deliver the abovementioned functions. It shall be composed of seven (7) members, headed by the Secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways. Other members shall include the Secretaries of Finance, Budget Management, Transportation, and three (3) representatives from motorist and transport groups.

It has come to my attention that Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez recently called for the abolition of the

Road Board and reassignment of its functions to the DOTr and DPWH through House Bill No. 6236. His reason mainly is to prevent misuse of the Road Fund worth Php 14 billion from 2001 to June 2016, after a Commission on Audit report revealed the alleged misuse of Road Users’ Tax from 2002 to 2013.

In Road Board’s defense, the allegations of fund misuse pertained to the transactions of the previous administration. With the new Road Board leadership, I am confident that the Road Fund is in good hands. According to the Road Board, it is now being controlled and supervised by the Office of the President, “to prevent dissipation of MVUC funds

and malfeasance of public officials”.

Furthermore, the Road Board has already coordinated with the National Bureau of Investigation and other law enforcement agencies for the conduct of investigation and filing of necessary legal cases against those who have counterfeited public documents to facilitate fund transfers.

While I understand the good intentions of the Speaker, I would like to reiterate the importance of the Road Board in carrying out functions beneficial to the motoring public. The Road Board is the product of a well-crafted and wellintentioned law, but like majority of our laws, the real problem is in the implementing agency.

The dehumanization of the Philippines

is why, in Trillanes’ current feud with Senator Gordon, not one of the Liberal Party members who usually stick together through thick or thin (thin, for the most part, since Noynoy Aquino left the building), you don’t hear any of them taking Trillanes’ side.

Of course, Trillanes is not even LP, but a nominal Nacionalista—a point he tried to make even to his interviewer from the BBC. But you’d have thought he would have been getting some love from the LPs, his fellow travelers on the now-deserted “daang matuwid.”

If none of the LPs take up Trillanes’ cause against the younger Duterte and Carpio, I will take that as a sign that (as I have long believed) the senator is now a pariah even to the Yellows.

And that could only mean that Trillanes is finally— and most deservedly—on his own.

IN THE months leading up to the 2016 elections, a then-officemate of mine said, “I’m voting for Duterte for president because he has promised to kill drug pushers and addicts.”

This same fellow agrees with Ferdinand Marcos’s atrocities against those who protested his dictatorial regime, saying the extreme measures were necessary to instill and maintain peace and order.

This is a soft-spoken, kindly man, whose home life is peaceful and harmonious. It was jarring to see the bloodthirst that lay lurking in his otherwise calm demeanor.

“Pero, kuya, mali ang pagpatay ng wala sa proseso. Imagine ninyo kung kayo iyan o anak niyo iyan na biglang dinampot na walang kasalanan!” I said. He shrugged and denied that could happen to

him nor his family. No, he shook his head, the killings are necessary “para matakot ang mga masasamang loob.”

I could not fathom how he completely bypassed the part where I said that EJKs subvert due process and trample human rights.

No matter how long we argued, we never got on the same wavelength and each conversation left me baffled and dismayed.

Now take this same scenario and multiply it by 16 million or so. That’s how many voted for Duterte with that same mindset.

Even subtracting several million from that figure —those who’ve been disenchanted with his bloody style of governance over the past year—there are still a great many who condone and support this lawlessness that has taken over our country.

Why are Filipinos now so cruel to each other?

What is occurring is state-sanctioned dehumanization of a particular sector of society.

of. I used to be the District Director of the Northern Police District covering the towns of Malabon, Navotas, and the cities of Caloocan and Valenzuela.

The Police culture that I found there compared to other places—for instance the Cordilleras—spells the difference between night and day.

During the Senate hearing, Senator Lacson was suggesting some kind of rotational assignment to avoid familiarization. But there are other considerations, as Bato dela Rosa tried to point out, and he is right. This is because

the PNP has for some time embraced the Police doctrine of Community Policing. This simply means that if a policeman lives in the community, there is a better chance that he will work harder to maintain peace in the community where he lives.

But as can be seen in many instances, this is not actually happening.

Instead, we find abusive policemen. In the old Constabulary, when someone is recruited, it was for a period of three years after which that person can again apply for reenlistment. If the record of that

individual is bad, he can be denied reenlistment. With this system, bad eggs can be removed easily. There was a system of automatic cleansing.

Today in the PNP, this process was stopped. Once a person is accepted into the police service, he retires at 56 years old unless sooner terminated for cause which is hard.

The old system should be brought back. Maybe not every three years but five.

This way, there will be a system of the PNP cleansing itself of undesirables easily. There will also be an incentive for enlisted

Dehumanization, as defined online, is “the process of depriving a person or group of positive human qualities.” To dehumanize is to demonize certain individuals, an out-group, or an enemy. It is to strip them of their humanity until in the common view they are no longer persons as such; this leads to violence, human rights violations, war crimes, genocide.

In the Philippines, the dehumanized are drug addicts and pushers, although it is never the big fish and the affluent who are targeted by the police.

Only the poor small fry are slain in the streets, many of them supporters of Duterte.

Over time, as such attitudes and behavior are reinforced, they replace the old norms and become the new norms. People become desensitized to the killings taking place around them; they just walk a little faster under the streetlights, get home sooner than they used to, skip the nights out they

used to enjoy, keep their children in the house.

The dehumanized are stripped of their rights— right to life, right to due process. Think of the Jews under the Nazi regime, the Tutsis under Hutu rule, the Rohingya in Myanmar.

They are placed outside the bounds of morality and justice, treated as subhumans or like animals, stigmatized as incorrigibly evil and beyond redemption, such that death is the only way to deal with them.

The dehumanization of poor drug suspects can be traced back to Duterte’s chillingly consistent inflammatory rhetoric on the matter: “I’d be happy to slaughter” them, “Help me kill drug addicts,” “Let’s kills addicts everyday.” He has even vowed to protect policemen from the legal consequences of his illegal drug war.

It is from this point that the normalization of state-sanctioned murder began. EJKs are now commonplace. Because of

this some policemen have changed the way they perform their jobs; funeral parlors have changed the way they do business; people have changed the way they live their lives.

What’s important to remember is that it was not like this before June 2016.

There were random killings—“riding in tandem” was the crime en vogue— but blood was not spilled to this extent. Despite Duterte’s promises, the situation has gone from bad to worse.

If I could talk to my former office mate again, I’d say this: Kuya, what about the rule of law, human rights, compassion, mercy, and pity? What about treating all Filipinos, without exception, with respect? What if it is you or your family that becomes a victim of the drug war? What then?

personnel not to commit any irregularity that will deny them reenlistment.

There are also other areas to look at. For instance, the PNP law of 1991 is in need of amendment because of its rigidity and inflexibility. The law does not give the National Police Commission and the PNP much authority to make important changes if there is a need. All must pass through Congress like the matter of training PNP recruits. Bato dela Rosa is actually not the first to point this out. Even during our time in the PNP, the leadership tried to change

this anomaly. Our political leaders may also want to try to make the organization less political.

The appointment of the PNP Chief is an example.

During the time of President Aquino, he selected General Purisima largely because he was his shooting buddy. Bato dela Rosa was allegedly chosen because the President was the principal sponsor during his wedding. In the case of these two selections, because both were relatively junior, most of the senior officers ahead of them were relieved and posted to unimportant retirement po-

sitions. A lot of talent was therefore wasted, not to mention the effect on morale of these assignments which is important if we want to make the organization function efficiently.

Maybe there should be a better process of selecting the best to be PNP Chief.

Another is the possibility of outsourcing what has to be done to improve and professionalize the PNP and not limit the reform process within the organization. Oftentimes, it is almost impossible to make changes from within because of entrenched organizational self-interests.

Dr. Ortuoste is a California-based writer. FB: Jenny Ortuoste, Twitter: @jennyortuoste, IG: @ jensdecember, @artuoste

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TODAY THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2017 Cesar Barrioquinto, Editor

Trump ends DACA program W

Muslims protest against Myanmar

ASHINGTON― President Donald Trump on Tuesday ended an amnesty that protected from deportation 800,000 people brought to the United States illegally as minors.

JAKARTA―Indonesian Muslims protested outside the Myanmar embassy in Jakarta on Wednesday demanding an end to the violence against the country’s Rohingya Muslim minority.

Thousands of demonstrators, many in white Islamic robes and skullcaps, walked through the capital’s streets to converge outside the embassy in downtown Jakarta.

Persecution of the Rohingya, reviled as illegal immigrants and mostly denied citizenship in Myanmar, has been a lightning rod for anger in Indonesia and across the Muslim world.

Protesters shouting “Allahu akbar” [God is greatest] and holding banners that read “Stop killing Muslim Rohingyas” gathered to condemn the worsening humanitarian situation in Rakhine state.

“I think this is not only a religion issue, but moreover a humanitarian issue.

What is happening there is very cruel,” Tita Fatmawati, a teacher from nearby Bogor, told AFP. AFP

Group slams torture in Egypt BEIRUT―Human Rights Watch in a report released on Wednesday accused Egyptian security services of widespread torture of detainees in a probable “crime against humanity”.

The New York-based rights group said security services in the North African country used torture as a “systematic practice” against suspected opponents of the government.

Rights groups have regularly accused Egyptian security services of practicing torture, something the interior ministry has denied.

The government has acknowledged there have been “individual” cases of torture, and several policemen have been tried and sentenced for violent deaths in detention in recent years.

“Human Rights Watch believes the torture epidemic in Egypt likely constitutes a crime against humanity, due to its widespread and systematic practice across Egypt,” the group said in the report. AFP

PROTEST. Immigrants and supporters demonstrate during a rally in support of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals or DACA program, an amnesty plan that President Donald Trump had canceled, on September 5, 2017, in Washington DC. AFP

Study reveals good, bad news on aspirin and colon cancer PARIS―Daily aspirin use― known to reduce the risk of colon cancer―could also make the disease harder to treat if it does occur, researchers reported Wednesday.

The new findings based on mathematical modeling, If confirmed statistically and in the lab, would mean that aspirin’s ability to ward off colon cancer may come at an unacceptably high cost, they cautioned.

Taking aspirin regularly “has been shown to reduce the inci-

dence [of] a variety of cancers,” including of the colon, noted the authors of a study in the Journal of the Royal Society Interface.

But at the same time, the drug may render the cancer “more difficult to manage therapeutically,” they added.

“This indicates a potential trade-off.”

A growing body of research has shown that daily microdoses of aspirin taken for at least five years can slash the risk of

1598 M.H. Del Pilar corner Dr. J. Quintos Streets Malate, Manila Tel. Nos. 522-0000, 551-2200 connecting all departments

INVITATION TO BID The Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK), through its Bids and Awards Committee (BAC), invites consultants/ suppliers/manufacturers/distributors/contractors to bid for the hereunder project: Approved Budget Bidding for the Contract Documents Fee (ABC)

Items ITB - GS-20170831-01 Supply and Delivery of the following:

Delivery Period

On or before October 31, 2017

Lot 1 - 6,650 Pcs. External Hard Drive, 1TB Lot 2 - 14,000 Pcs. Power Bank, 5000mAH Lot 3 - 11,900 Pcs. USB OTG, 16GB

P 19,950,000.00 6,720,000.00 7,021,000.00

P

10,000.00 3,400.00 3,600.00

Prospective bidders should have experience in undertaking a similar project within the last five (5) years from the date of submission and receipt of bids, with an amount of not less than 50% of the ABC. The Eligibility Check/Screening as well as the Preliminary Examination of Bids shall use non-discretionary “pass/fail” criteria. Post-qualification of the lowest calculated bid shall be conducted.

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

The schedule of activities are as follows: ACTIVITIES 1. Issuance of Bid Documents 2. Pre-Bid Conference

3. Submission / Opening of Bids 4. Post-Qualification 5. Notice of Award

SCHEDULE September 7 to 28, 2017 September 14, 2017 - 2:00 PM Bidding Room, 25th Floor, LANDBANK Plaza Building 1598 M. H. Del Pilar corner Dr. J. Quintos Streets, Malate, Manila September 28, 2017 - 11:00 A.M. Procurement Department, 25th Floor, LANDBANK Plaza Building 1598 M. H. Del Pilar corner Dr. J. Quintos Streets, Malate, Manila September 29 to October 5, 2017 October 10, 2017

Bid documents will be available to prospective bidders upon payment of the applicable Bidding Documents fee to the LANDBANK Cashier.

LANDBANK reserves the right to (a) reject any and all bids at any time prior to the award of the contract; (b) waive any minor formal requirements in the bid documents; (c) accept such bids, it may consider advantageous and beneficial without thereby incurring any liability to the affected bidder or bidders.

BIDS AND AWARDS COMMITTEE

cancer later in life.

Rates of prostate, throat and non-small-cell lung cancer all drop off significantly, with the incidence of colon cancer cut by up to half.

Other studies, meanwhile, have tested the impact of aspirin directly on cancer cells in the laboratory, showing that the common painkiller can slow the rate of cell division and boost cell death.

But scientists do not yet understand the mechanism at work, or

know whether aspirin might have as-yet-undiscovered effects on cancer spread.

To find out more, researchers led by Dominik Wodarz of the University of California at Irvine―who conducted these earlier experiments―investigated whether the drug may cause dangerous cancer mutations.

Indeed, aspirin did boost the cancer’s ability to produce aggressive, mutant cells that are drugresistant, they found. AFP

“I am here today to announce that the program known as DACA that was effectuated under the Obama Administration is being rescinded,” Trump’s attorney general Jeff Sessions said.

Sessions argued the amnesty put in place by former president Barack Obama was unconstitutional and “denied jobs to hundreds of thousands of Americans by allowing those same illegal aliens to take those jobs.”

Mexico condemned Trump’s decision to end the amnesty for thousands of people brought illegally to the United States as children, expressing “deep worry” for the uncertainty they now face.

“Mexico deeply regrets the cancellation” of the program known as DACA, President Enrique Pena Nieto said in a tweet.

“The Mexican government will urge US authorities to find a swift, permanent solution that gives legal certainty to the young people of DACA,” he wrote.

Trump announced that the permits issued under the program would be gradually phased out as they expire over the next six to 24 months.

He left it up to Congress to draft an immigration reform to address the legal situation of some 800,000 people formerly protected from deportation under the program, implemented by his predecessor, Barack Obama.

Some 625,000 Mexicans are protected under DACA, according to the Mexican foreign ministry.

Pena Nieto said they would be welcomed “with open arms” in Mexico if they ended up being deported to the country of their birth, where many have barely ever lived.

Mexico has a “moral imperative” to lobby the Trump administration and Congress to quickly resolve the legal gray area, Mexico’s Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Sada told a press conference.

“There is no question that setting immigration policy in the United States is the exclusive role of the American people and their institutions,” the foreign ministry said.

“However, our country cannot ignore the fact that thousands of young people born in Mexico will likely be affected by today’s decision.”

The issue of Mexican immigration to the United States has strained relations between the two neighbors since Trump took office, along with his vows to make Mexico pay for a wall on the border.

Trump’s decision sparked protests in Mexico. On Monday night, some 20 women held a prayer vigil in the northern city of Tijuana against the imminent end of DACA, gathering along the border at a spot where there is already a metal barrier between the two countries.

Another small group protested outside the US embassy in Mexico City on Tuesday.

Among them was recently deported mother Maria Jimenez, 40, whose daughter, Brenda Guadarrama, remained in the US under DACA. Now 20 years old, Guadarrama has lived in the United States since she was two.

Since her mother was sent back to Mexico four months ago, she has had to support her three younger siblings. AFP

Vietnam slams China over its drills in South China Sea HANOI―Vietnam has delivered a sharp rebuke to China over its military drills in the South China Sea, the second such warning in a week as the tensions rise between the countries over the disputed waterway.

China and Vietnam have long traded barbs over the strategic and resourcerich South China Sea, which Beijing claims most of.

Tensions have flared in recent months, with Vietnam suspending an oil exploration project operated by Spain’s Repsol in an area off its coast claimed by Beijing.

In June, a meeting between top Vietnamese and Chinese generals over border issues was abruptly canceled, with both sides citing a sudden sched-

uling conflict.

Hanoi condemned Beijing’s latest military drills in the Paracel Islands, a contentious archipelago claimed by both sides.

“Vietnam strongly rejects China’s move and seriously requests China to respect Vietnam’s sovereignty over the Hoang Sa archipelago,” foreign ministry spokeswoman Le Thi Thu Hang said late Tuesday, using the Vietnamese name for the Paracels.

China said last week it was conducting “regular military training in the relevant maritime area located in the northwest of the South China Sea”, where the Paracels are located, claiming jurisdiction over the zone.

New York fashion kicks off NEW YORK―New York turns fashion hub of the world for a week starting Thursday, as top designers do battle for the hearts and minds of millennials in a social-media whirlwind of models and celebrities.

US designer Tom Ford―fresh back from a stint in Paris―will open the extravagan-

za that is New York’s Spring/Summer Fashion Week on Wednesday evening.

Among the most hotly anticipated collections is Raf Simons’ second line for Calvin Klein, after an avantgarde show designed along with American artist Sterling Ruby last February. AFP

The two countries fought a brief but bloody skirmish over the Paracels in 1974. More than 70 Vietnamese soldiers were killed and China has had de facto control over the islands since then.

Last week, Vietnam repeated calls for Beijing to halt its activity in the area, and foreign affairs officials in Hanoi met with Chinese embassy staff “to clarify Vietnam’s position”.

Some $5 trillion in annual shipping trade passes through the South China Sea, which is believed to be rich in oil and gas deposits.

Tensions between Vietnam and China over the sea came to a head in 2014 when Beijing moved an oil rig into waters claims by Hanoi. AFP

Monster hurricane makes landfall WA S H I N G T O N ― Powerful Hurricane Irma made landfall early Wednesday on the island of Barbuda as it barreled its way across the Caribbean, the US National Hurricane Center said.

The eye of the rare Category Five storm passed over Barbuda around 2

am (0600 GMT) packing winds gusting at up to 185 mph (295 kph), the center said.

The storm is headed northwest toward the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico, with potential for coastal storm surges of up to 20 feet above normal tide levels, it added. AFP

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CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK Manila

Sports

Standard

TODAY

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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2017 sports_mstandard@yahoo.com

Venus is oldest semifinalist N

EW YORK—Seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams became the oldest semi-finalist in US Open history at age 37 on Tuesday by defeating two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova 6-3, 3-6, 7-6 (7/2).

US ninth seed Williams, seeking her third US Open crown, advanced to a Thursday matchup against 83rdranked compatriot Sloane Stephens for a spot in Saturday’s final.

“I’m so fortunate to have won that match. It came down to the wire,” Williams said. “I try to tell myself enjoy the competition, enjoy

the battle and I think I was able to do that.”

In the men’s event, South Africa’s Kevin Anderson reached a Grand Slam semifinal for the first time where he will face Spain’s Pablo Carreno Busta who will also be appearing in his maiden last-four at a major.

Stephens, who missed 11 months with a left foot

injury before returning at Wimbledon, matched her best Grand Slam showing by outlasting Latvian 16th seed Anastasija Sevastova 6-3, 3-6, 7-6 (7/4).

“This is just incredible,” Stephens said. “When I started my comeback at Wimbledon I could never have dreamed of coming back and having these results. It’s indescribable.”

Stephens has won 13 of her past 15 matches and matched her 2013 Australian Open semi-final run for best Slam effort.

Williams, who improved to 2-4 all-time against the

Czech 13th seed, will return to the world top five for the first time since January 2011, a span that saw her diagnosed with the energysapping disease Sjogren’s Syndrome.

Williams, the oldest Slam semi-finalist since Martina Navratilova at Wimbledon in 1994, won the 2000 and 2001 US crowns.

She was runner-up this year at Wimbledon and the Australian Open and could reach three Slam finals in a year for the first time since 2002.

Kvitova battled back from a five-month absence after

a knife-wielding home intruder injured her left hand last December.

“I’m glad I’m still able to compete on the high level against the top players which I hope will give me some confidence to continue to play well, to know that it’s still there somewhere,” Kvitova said.

If Americans Madison Keys and CoCo Vanderweghe win Wednesday, they will produce the first allAmerican US Open semifinals since 1981.

“That would be huge,” Williams said. “I’d love that.”

“This is amazing,” Stephens said. “I hope there are four Americans in the semifinals.”

Legends Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal each practiced ahead of Wednesday quarter-finals in which wins by each would set up their first US Open meeting in an epic Friday men’s semi-final.

The other half-bracket, however, will offer a firsttime Slam finalist.

South African 28th seed Anderson downed 17thseeded American Sam Querrey 7-6 (7/5), 6-7 (9/11), 6-3, 7-6 (9/7) to book a berth in Friday’s semi-finals. AFP

128 bowlers reach BWC national finals

ONE HUNDRED and 28 pintopplers—80 men and 48 ladies—will vie for honors in the 2017 Bowling World Cup national finals which kicks off on Saturday, Sept.

9 at Coronado Lanes (Starlanes).

Among the participants who are seeking the right to represent the Philippines in the WBC international finals scheduled on November 4-12 in Hermosillo, Mexico are Raoul Miranda, Paulo Valdez, Kevin Cu, Kenneth Chua, Benshir Layoso, Sammy Say Sy, Liza del Rosario, Liza Clutario, Lara Posadas, Mades Arles, Alexis Sy and Krizziah Tabora.

Miranda and Posadas carried the country’s colors in last year’s WBC international finals in Shanghai, China.

The men’s aspirants will play 12 games each on Saturday, while the ladies will roll their first 10 games on Sunday, Sept. 10 also at

Coronado Lanes. The top 34 men and lady bowlers will advance to the second round.

With their scores carried over, the 68 survivors will play anew 12 and 10 games at Paeng’s Midtown Bowl (Ermita) – the men on Monday, Sept. 11 and the ladies on Tuesday, Sept. 12 – to determine the top eight ladies and top eight men who will remain in the race for the national title on Wednesday, Sept. 13 at Paeng’s Eastwood.

The top eight in both divisions will bowl a round-robin format and positioning on the eighth game, the winner getting 30 points and 15 points for a tie. The top four men and top four ladies will then advance to the best 2 of 3-game semifinals, pitting 1 against 4 and 2 against 3 based on their rankings.

The winners will dispute the crown and the trip to Mexico.

Photo shows (from left) MILO brand manager for Nutri-up EJ Dee; MILO marketing, lifestyle, and active beverages manager Lester Castillo; former national coach and BEST Center founder Nicanor Jorge; former PBA player, actor and BEST Center graduate Benjie Paras; BEST Center graduate and former national player Joaquin Torres; and SBP-Passerelle Twin Tournament Commissioner Bryan Tabañag

SBP-Passerelle kicks off at Xavier School THE much-awaited annual interschool basketball twin tournament for kids, the SBP– Passerelle, is finally back for its 32nd season, kicking off at the Fr. Rafael Cortina Sports Center, Xavier School.

This year, over 600 players from more than 150 schools nationwide will be competing for the coveted trophies of regional, as well as national, champions.

The twin tournament started with fiercer and stronger

play-offs between top schools in the NCR, with elimination games in each division played simultaneously.

Gracing the opening is Philippine basketball legend, actor and BEST Center graduate Benjie Paras, who showed support for his son, Riley who is now playing for the De La Salle Greenhills team and followed the footsteps of his older brothers Andre and Kobe who were both alumni of BEST Center clinic and also

played in the SBP-Passerelle twin tournament during their time.

“Every year, we see improvement in skills of the kids joining SBP-Passerelle.

It’s heartening to see that the determination and passion for basketball in the country remains strong, and we are glad to provide a venue for aspiring players to hone their talents,” said former national coach and BEST Center Founder Nicanor Jorge.

Elimination games are

being held simultaneously throughout Luzon, the Visayas and Mindanao. Defending their championship titles this year are La Salle Greenhills in the SBP Division and Adamson University in the Passerelle Division.

The SBP division is for players aged 9 to 11, while Passerelle division, conceived to act as a bridge between the SBP and the Juniors Division for players 18 and under, is for 12 to 14 year old.

Caidic puts on virtual shooting clinic in team’s win HOLE IN ONE. Manila Standard Today Mindanao cor-

respondent Roland Jumawan got a hole in one in hole no. 17 at Villamor Air Base Golf Club, Pasay City. With him are Hiroyuki Ono Assistant Vice President of Mizuho Bank, Mr. Darren Evangelista General Manager of Golden East Promo Ads and Events,Boyet Mendoza of Villamor Air Base Golf Club and Kentaru Shima Mizuho Bank Ltd. 09-03.17

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia—Allan Caidic put on a virtual shooting clinic as the 50s of the Filipino-Chinese Veterans Basketball Association dumped Asaba of Indonesia, 74-52, even as 65s advanced to the final with nary a problem in the 26th ASEAN Basketball Tournament yesterday at the MABA gym here.

Showing the touch that made him a one-time PBA MVP winner, Caidic, 54, buried six triples—five in the first half—on the way to finishing with a

game-high 25 points.

Caidic was ably supported by exLetran star Jerry Gonzales, Gerry Tee, Joey Sta. Maria, Benet Palad and Bong Tan as the 50s notched their third straight win in as many outings.

Not to be outdone, the 65s leaned on a big third quarter assault to dump Club 51 of the host city, 54-44, and complete a two-game sweep of their group elims —thanks to the solid efforts of Achit Kaw, Johnny Chua, Bong dela Cruz, Johnson Lao, Zotico Tan and Jimi Lim.

UE alumni holds bowling tilt Sept. 23 THE University of the East Alumni Association Inc. will hold the First UE Alumni Bowling Tournament on Sept. 23 at the AMFPuyat Coronado Lanes in Starmall-Edsa, Mandaluyong City.

UEAAI officers are encouraging all members of the UE community to take an active, healthy lifestyle to participate in this tenpin bowlfest, which is open to UE faculty, students, employees, and alumni. Other interested groups or guest teams are welcome to join.

In this sports competition, each team competes in a three-player lineup, either mixed male-and-female, all-male, or all-female bowlers.

Registration is now ongoing. Submission of the team entries plus payment of the tournament fee of P3,000 per team is until Sept. 13.

The fee is inclusive of the shoe rentals and bowlers’ four-game of play. Due to limited team slots, the first-come, first-served policy is in effect as 24 slots are only available.

Major prizes await the top three winners.

Special prizes for highest game and highest series for special individual and team, among other prizes are at stake. All participating teams should be ready for action at the bowling alleys 15 minutes prior to the ceremonial bowl which would start at exactly 10 a.m.

Entry forms are available at the UE Marketing Dept./UE Alumni Office, GF, former Dentistry Building, Dr. Francisco T. Dalupan Sr. Street (formerly Gastambide), UE Manila. Committee members are UE alumni veteran bowlers Rene Chan, Joey

Romblon and Ed Arcilla.

Meanwhile, preparations for the 2017 UE Alumni Reunion of all the UE graduates are underway.

With this year’s theme “UE Shining Through,” the annual UE alumni gathering is set at the Century Park Hotel’s Grand Ballroom on Sept. 30, from 6 p.m. onwards—announced UEAAI president Josie Malanum.

Each reunion ticket is priced at P1,000 only, inclusive of food and raffle prizes. Attendees should wear appropriate formal evening attire (gown for ladies, coat and tie for gentlemen).

For inquiries, contact the UEAAI secretariat, tel. nos. 735-5471, loc. 458, 310, or 735-8562, or 7360943, or to email: alumni@ ue.edu.ph, alumni@ue.edu.ph, uealumni06@ yahoo.com.ph.

P0 M+ P0 M

OVER 250 entries gear up for another five-day battle of power shots and baseline games as the Palawan Pawnshop-Palawan Express Pera Padala regional age group tennis tournament holds the Citigreen Cebu leg starting today (Thursday) at various venues.

Organizers of the event, led by Atty. Vladimir Cuizon and Atty. Grace Marie Lopez, have tapped the Citigreen, Alta Vista, Paloma and Talisay courts to accommodate the big number of entries vying for top honors and ranking points in the Group 2 tournament sponsored by Palawan Pawnshop and presented by Slazenger.

All events in the boys’ division drew 32-player fields with the 16-under side even holding a qualifier for the last four slots in the main draw.

“Drawing such huge field only inspires us to hold more tournaments in various regions, particularly in the countryside where more and more young players are waiting to be tapped,” said Palawan Pawnshop president/ CEO Bobby Castro.

This week’s event will also feature the Macs Crankit Community Coaching Conference set Sept. 8-10 at the Citigreen courts to be headed by coach Patricia ConconPuzon in partnership with Cuizon and Lopez.

Meanwhile, the country’s long-running circuit will host the next stop in Mlang, Cotabato on Sept.

14-18 to be followed by the Pikit, Cotabato leg on Sept. 21-25. For details, call PPS-PEPP sports program development director Bobby Mangunay at 0915-4046464.

Vhon Tudtud, Troy Llamas, Paul Coderos and Reynan Mahusay banner the 18-U side with Llamas gaining the top seeding in the 16-U category that also includes Cesar Salimbangon, Nikhel Nowlakha, John Tenepre, Mahusay and Vinz Luminoque.

PUBLIC INFORMATION SHEET FOR DIRECT USE AS FOOD AND FEED, OR FOR PROCESSING PROPOSAL FOR DIRECT USE AS FOOD AND FEED, OR FOR PROCESSING MIR604 Corn 1.

Applicant’s Name Syngenta Philippines, Inc.

2.

Applicant’s Address 12th Floor, Two World Square, # 22 Upper McKinley Road, McKinley Town Center, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, 1630 Philippines

3.

Telephone Number/ Facsimile Number, E-Mail Address of the Applicant Tel. +63 2 370 2100; Fax: +63 2 856 9260; E-mail: c/o ba_cau.duong@syngenta.com

4.

Name of Responsible Officer/Authorized Representative Duong Ba Cau, President and Commercial Unit Head, Philippines Felipe S. dela Cruz, Jr., Regulatory Affairs Territory Lead, ASEAN

5.

Description of the Regulated Article for Direct Use MIR604 corn has been developed through modern biotechnology using Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated. It contains the mCry3A gene which encodes the mCry3A protein that provides protection against rootworm and the pmi gene which allows the positive selection for the recovery of the transformed plants.

6.

If to be imported, Country (ies) of Origin of the Regulated Article United States, Canada, Argentina, Brazil or from other countries which will have cultivation approvals in the future

7.

Brief Summary of Potential Effects on Human and Animal Health and the Environment MIR604 corn has been adequately assessed to demonstrate its safety as food, feed, and its safety to the environment. Studies conducted show that the mCry3A and PMI proteins produced in MIR604 corn do not have homology to any known or putative mammalian toxin and share no biologically relevant amino acid sequence similarity to known or putative allergen. There is no evidence that these proteins will interact to form new toxin or allergen. In addition, the modes of action of these proteins are distinct and no interaction has been detected. Furthermore, studies show that MIR604 corn is nutritionally and compositionally similar to, and as safe and as nutritious as the conventional corn.

Notice is hereby given that CURRIMAO SOLAR ENERGY CORP. is applying for registration with the Board of Investments (BOI) as Renewable Energy Developer of Wind Energy Resources (151.2MW Calatagan Wind Power Project) in Nasugbu-Calatagan, Batangas to avail of the incentives under the Renewable Energy Act of 2008 (RA 9513).

MIR604 corn will only be imported for direct use as food, feed, and for processing and will not be propagated in the Philippines. In the event that there is an accidental release of grains in the environment during the importation of the Third Party Importer, chances of survival of MIR604 corn is unlikely since it will generally occur in industrial areas which are highly disturbed habitats unsuitable for significant plant establishment. The spilled grains have to reach the soil and need to be exposed to specific favorable conditions, such as light, moisture, and temperature so that germination and plant establishment will occur.

Any person with valid objection/s on the above-mentioned project may file his/her objection in writing, under oath, with the BOI within three (3) days from the date of this publication.

8.

(SGD.) NESTOR P. ARCANSALIN Director Resource-based Industries Service

Brief Summary of Potential Benefits Since MIR604 corn will be a traded commodity, the society will be the main beneficiary in case importation will be required to supply the industry with grains of corn and corn products to feed millers, for use in poultry, livestock, aquaculture, and other industries.

9.

Countries Where Approvals Have Been Granted MIR604 corn has already been approved in United States (cultivation, food, feed, and processing), Argentina (cultivation, environment, food, feed, and economic impact), Australia/New Zealand (food), Brazil (cultivation, food, and feed), Canada (cultivation, food, and feed), China (food, feed, and processing), Colombia (food, and feed), European Union (food, feed, and processing), Indonesia (food), Japan (food, feed, and environment), Korea (food, feed, and environment), Malaysia (food, feed, and processing), Mexico (food, feed, and processing), Philippines (food, feed, and processing), Russian Federation/Belarus/Kazakhstan (food), Russian Federation (feed), South Africa (food, feed, and processing), Taiwan (food, and feed), Turkey (feed), and Vietnam (food, and feed).

(MS-SEPT. 7, 2017)

N OTICE

LOTTO RESULTS 6/55 00-00-00-00-00-00 6/45 00-00-00-00-00-00 4 DIGITS 0-0-0-0 3 DIGITS 0-0-0 2 EZ2 0-0

N OTICE

Huge field vies in PPS Cebu net tourney

Notice is hereby given that CURRIMAO SOLAR ENERGY CORP. is applying for registration with the Board of Investments (BOI) as Renewable Energy Developer of Wind Energy Resources (50.4MW Talisay Wind Power Project) in Labo, Vinzons and Talisay, Camarines Norte to avail of the incentives under the Renewable Energy Act of 2008 (RA9513).

The public is hereby invited to submit their comments to the BPI Director (within 60 days from date of publication) on the Proposal for the Importation of MIR604 corn for direct use as food and feed, or for processing Director Bureau of Plant Industry San Andres, Malate, Manila E-Mail bpibiotechsecretariat@yahoo.com Approved for Publication: ___________________________ GEORGE Y. CULASTE OIC-Director Bureau of Plant Industry Date:

Any person with valid objection/s on the above-mentioned project may file his/her objection in writing, under oath, with the BOI within three (3) days from the date of this publication.

(SGD.) NESTOR P. ARCANSALIN Director Resource-based Industries Service (MS-SEPT. 7, 2017)

(MS-SEPT. 7, 2017)

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Sports

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

A8

PGT Asia 2nd leg starts at Splendido

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2017

Elmer Salvador hopes to cash in on an early tee start at 7:20 a.m. in the company of Gerald Rosales and Thai Natchanon Varapornkittirat.

TNT boosts quarterfinal bid

By Jeric Lopez

T

NT KaTropa nearly squandered a 21-point first half lead but kept its poise down the stretch to register a huge, morale-boosting win over Meralco, 113-107, to move a step closer to securing a spot in the quarterfinals of the 2017 Philippine Basketball Association Governors’ Cup yesterday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Glen Rice Jr. started out strong to register teamhighs of 32 points and 11 rebounds and Jayson Castro brought his A-game,

pouring in 27 points as their duo backstopped TNT KaTropa.

The win was critical for TNT as it improved to 5-3

and kept its place at fifth, while staying in the hunt for a top four finish, while Meralco fell to 5-2 and slipped from second to third place.

Catching the rusty Bolts off guard and sleepwalking, TNT KaTropa mercilessly stepped on the gas pedal in the first half to seize firm control.

Just six minutes through the game, the Tropang Texters already carved a double-digit lead with an 18-7 start and eventually held a 29-17 advantage at

the end of one.

In the second frame, things just got better for TNT and even worse for Meralco as the former was able to establish a gigantic 21-point bubble, 56-35, with less than four minutes left before halftime after a jumper from Castro capped a 14-2 spurt.

At the turn, the Texters carried a 63-46 spread.

Meralco came off an 18day break and that interval between games clearly took its toll on the Bolts as they were out of sync in the first

24 minutes.

In the third, the Bolts finally woke up, outscoring the Texters, 38-26, to claw their way back and give themselves a chance in the fourth, trimming the gap to only five points, 89-84, still in favor of TNT. Despite staying within striking distance, Meralco was unable to complete its comeback bid as TNT KaTropa stood its ground and kept it at bay in times of need before holding on.

Allen Durham’s monster production of 39 points

and 18 rebounds went for naught as the Bolts fell short for the second time in the tournament.

The scores: TNT 113—Rice Jr. 32, Castro 27, Williams 16, Pogoy 11, Rosario 7, De Ocampo 6, Semerad 5, Reyes 5, Tautuaa 4, Seigle 0.

MERALCO 107— Durham 39, Amer 21, Tolomia 9, Lanete 9, Dillinger 8, Hugnatan 7, Newsome 6, Hodge 4, Caram 4, Nabong 0.

Quarters: 29-17, 63-46, 89-84, 113-107.

5k run brings smiles to runners

Actress/TV host and UNICEF celebrity advocate Anne Curtis cheers a participant on during the Color Run Dream Machine at the SM Mall of Asia Grounds.

AFTER more than 10,000 running enthusiasts from all ages showed up, organizers and advocates for children with disabilities can definitely say they really had fun.

This is what actress, television host and UNICEF celebrity advocate Anne Curtis said after she joined and hosted the Color Run Dream Machine Tour at the SM Mall of Asia grounds last Sunday morning.

“The theme was really about having fun. It was open for people of all ages. There were moms, there were dads, at may nakita pa akong mga lola kanina,” said Curtis at the end of the run and the concert that followed.

The run was dubbed as “The Happiest 5K on the Planet,” an untimed event that brought in runners, who were doused from head to toe in different colors at each kilometer.

The run was presented

by Dream Machine and organized by RunRio, for the benefit of the United Nations Childrens’ Fund, specifically for children with disabilities.

The event, which brought smiles to all participants, is said to be the largest fun run series in the world and has brought joy to over six million runners worldwide in more than 35 countries.

UNICEF country repre-

sentative Lotta Sylwander said the program plans to benefit more than a thousand children.

“Money raised will go help set up centers all over the country where parents can bring their children to be diagnosed for treatment,” explained Sylwander.

The centers will not only be for the treatment of children, but will be also for therapies— a healing place where they can provide prosthesis, hearing aids or glasses to those who need them.

The run was held with the support of SM Mall of Asia, Cherry Mobile, Enervon, Jollibee, PMX and Swatch.

Peter Atencio

SBC’s Bolick, Doliguez, Fernandez, Benilde’s Young suspended for a game THE league meted out a one-game suspension on San Beda’s Robert Bolick and Clint Doliguez and coach Boyet Fernandez and St. Benilde’s Carlo Young for their misconduct in their 93rd NCAA basketball game at the Filoil Arena in San Juan City Tuesday.

“There were infractions that commissioner Bai (Cristobal) gave that suspended the three players and also coach Boyet (Fernandez),”

said NCAA Management Committee chairman Fr. Glyn Ortega, OAR, yesterday.

Bolick was slapped the suspension for an elbow he threw after he was pulled down by Young in a fast break play with less than three minutes to go that led to his ejection.

Young was also tossed out for his dangerous foul, while Doliguez was thrown out for leaving the bench and coming to his team-

Games today (Sept. 7)

12 noon- Letran vs Perpetual Help (jrs) 2 p.m.- Letran vs Perpetual Help (srs) 4 p.m.- Jose Rizal vs Arellano U (srs) 6 p.m.- Jose Rizal vs Arellano U (jrs)

mate’s aid. It was the second time this season that he was suspended for a game.

As for Fernandez, he was sacked for “disrespecting officials” after their 72-58 win over St. Benilde

Tuesday. It was his second offense after he committed the same infraction the previous game.

Bolick, Doliguez and Fernandez will serve their one-game ban in San Beda’s game against Mapua tomorrow, while Young will serve his versus unbeaten Lyceum of the Philippines University the same day.

The suspension disqualifies Bolick, Doliguez and Young from

any individual award including the much-coveted MVP plum.

Among the suspended, Bolick suffered the most as he is currently sixth overall in an ultra-tight MVP race currently headed by Nigerian Prince Eze of Perpetual Help.

Meanwhile, Jose Rizal and Letran seek to keep their place inside the magic four as they take on dangerous Perpetual Help and Arellano University, respectively, today.

Pakutkot, Rafanan, Reyes top Phoenix slalom PERFECTO Pakutkot of Speedjav Cabanatuan City clinched both the overall and the Production Front Wheel Best Time of the Day by clocking 49.96 in the second leg of the RACE Motorsports Club Phoenix Slalom Invitational Challenge last Sept. 3 at the Robinsons Place, Calasiao, Pangasinan.

Second place was Jeff Capiral of Wholesome Concepts Baguio City with 50.76 seconds, followed by Glenn Suba of Speed Jav with 51.08.

Potchie Paikot came in fourth with 51.16 followed

by Ram Rafanan of Globe

Spade Racing Team (51.58) and Jhon Guintu of Wholesome (51.60).

Meanwhile, Rafanan also bagged the novice best time of 51.58.

The Production Rear Wheel Best Time of the Day went to Ritchie de Jesus of Speedjav Racing Team with his clocking of 51.58, followed by Paikot.

The 2017 RACE Motorsports Club Phoenix Slalom Invitational is powered by Phoenix Premium ’98 and Phoenix Accelerate fully synthetic motor oil and co-sponsored by Federal Tyres and Outlast Bat-

tery. It is also supported

by Starbright Body Kits, Auto Transporter, media partners Stoplight TV, C! Magazine, Power Wheels Magazine, Auto Car Magazine, medical team Aeromed, Robinsons Malls and Robinsons Place Calasiao, Pangasinan.

The invitational event lured different clubs, headed by Corolla Auto Club Baguio, Speed Limits, Wholesome Concepts, Speed Jav, Greenlight La Union, MITTS, Globe Spade Racing Team and privateers from Tarlac and Pangasinan.

The third Phoenix

Slalom Invitational will be on Oct. 8, still at Robinsons Calasiao Pangasinan.

Meanwhile, the ninth leg of the 2017 Phoenix National Slalom Series is slated on Sept. 10 at the NFA Compound in Cabanatuan City, through the assistance of Mayor Jay Vergara, Eugene Mintu, Michael Mendoza and Joey Vergara For details, contact Bing Bang O. Dulce at tel. nos. 928-6951 or 0917-8119337; email racemotorsportsclub@ yahoo.com or facebook page of RACE Motorsports Club.

Novice Best Time of the Day holder Ram Rafanan from Baguio City, and Rear Wheel Production best time winner Ritchie de Jesus and overall and Front Wheel best time titlist Perpekto Pakutkot, both from Speedjav Racing Team, are shown with organizers Bing Bang and Lito Dulce.

TAGAYTAY—Premium will be on shotmaking and putting as the men of the PGT Asia Tour slug it out for top honors in the $100,000 ICTSI Splendido Classic beginning today (Wednesday) at Taal Splendido Golf Club here.

But they will also have to endure the heat the way they did in yesterday’s pro-am and the wind which is expected to come into play in all four days, particularly during the weekend play of the second leg of the eight-stage circuit sponsored by by ICTSI. Elmer Salvador, who nipped Jay Bayron by one in the Philippine Golf Tour leg here last year, hopes to cash in on an early tee start at 7:20 a.m. in the company of Gerald Rosales and Thai Natchanon Varapornkittirat although he remains wary of the tough field that includes a slew of foreign long-hitters.

“It’s a different field and there’s a number of strong foreign players.

But if I can score low in the first two days and stay in contention in the final round, I think I have a chance,” said Salvador.

Thais Pasavee Lertvelai and Wisut Artjanawat, Americans John Michael O’Toole and Seungjae Maeng, Korean-American Micah Shin, Peter Stojanovski of Macedonia, Singapore’s Choo Tze Huang, Korean Park Jung Sung and Aussies Andrew Park and David Gleeson lead the foreign challenge in the event put up to develop the games of the local pros and make the country a top tourist golf destination.

Artjanawat, a multiple winner in the region’s other tours, primed up for the big event as he led his team composed of Bobby Gonzales, Buboy Garovillo and Red Laset to victory in the pro-am with a 14-under 58, nipping Lascuña, along with Jay Enrile, Danielle Enrile and Moulay Rhounimi, in the countback.

PSI goes to Kalinga

By Peter Atencio TABUK City—Teacher coaches are boosting their sports knowledge from the Philippine Sports Commission.

Acting governor James Edduba said this yesterday after provincial officials welcomed the presence of coaches and sports science experts the PSC dispatched to the Province of Kalinga through its Philippines Sports Institute.

“This is the first time na mangyayari sa amin itong mga seminars. The PSC is here and it’s timely because we are having our provincial meets,” said Edduba during a courtesy call made by PSC coordinators, coaches and sports science specialists.

From Sept. 5 to 10, the PSC is bringing PSI personnel on a road trip that will take them to Abra, Kalinga, Ifugao and Isabel for a coaches’ education program.

The PSI, through national training director Marc Edward Velasco, has been actively conducting coaching seminars at the grassroots level since it was relaunched last January.

The province is currently preparing its athletes to join a provincial meet this October and a regional meet in February.

With the 2018 Palarong Pambansa nearing, sports officials from the Department of Education are seeking the expertise of certified coaches attached to national sports associations.

They believe that doing so will help their athletes perform better in the future.

ERC: Paltry budget to destabilize power B3

Business

Ray S. Eñano, Editor Roderick T. dela Cruz, Assistant Editor business@manilastandard.net extrastory2000@gmail.com THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2017

B1

P355-b subway approved Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Wednesday, September 5, 2017

F OREIGN E XCHANGE R ATE Currency

Unit

US Dollar Peso

United States Dollar

1.000000

51.1180

Japan

0.009191

0.4698

Yen

UK

Pound

1.303500

66.6323

Hong Kong

Dollar

0.127782

6.5320

Switzerland

Franc

1.047011

53.5211

Canada

Dollar

0.808407

41.3241

Singapore

Dollar

0.739426

37.7980

Australia

Dollar

0.799500

40.8688

Bahrain

Dinar

2.652168

135.5735

Saudi Arabia

Rial

0.266660

13.6311

Brunei

Dollar

0.736703

37.6588

Indonesia

Rupiah

0.000075

0.0038

Thailand

Baht

0.030140

1.5407

UAE

Dirham

0.272264

13.9176

Euro

Euro

1.191600

60.9122

Korea

Won

0.000884

0.0452

China

Yuan

0.153022

7.8222

India

Rupee

0.015601

0.7975

Malaysia

Ringgit

0.234824

12.0037

New Zealand

Dollar

0.723300

36.9736

Taiwan

Dollar

0.033272

1.7008 Source: PDS Bridge

By Julito G. Rada

T

HE Cabinet approved the first phase of the Metro Manila Subway Project that will cost at least P355 billion to build, the National Economic and Development Authority said Wednesday.

Neda said the Investment Coordination Committee-Cabinet Committee approved phase 1 of the subway project, along with the construction of the P15.35-billion Clark International Airport facility under the buildtransfer scheme and the P3.5-billion Lower Agno River Irrigation System Improvement Project.

The subway project will run more than 30 kilometers from Mindan-

Govt reviews ban on open-pit mining

By Anna Leah E. Gonzales THE government is currently reviewing an order which prohibits the use of open-pit mining for prospective gold, silver and copper mining projects earlier imposed by former Environment secretary Regina Lopez, an official said Wednesday.

Environment Undersecretary for planning, policy and international affairs Jonas Leones said the Mining Industry Coordinating Council was reviewing the order, although the ban would stay until the MICC released the results on the review of the policy.

“Secretary [Roy] Cimatu has not yet issued an order revoking that [open-pit ban] but what I know is that policy is now being evaluated by the MICC, being the policy council evaluating mining policies,” Leones said at the sidelines of the Mining Philippines Conference in Manila.

ao Ave. in Quezon City and end at Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Parañaque City. Its initial investment requirement is estimated at P355.6 billion, funded by an official development assistance loan from Japan International Cooperation Agency. The loan will have an interest of 0.10 percent per annum payable in 40 years with a grace period of 12 years.

The project also involves the construction of a 28-hectare training center and depot, as well as other related facilities. The implementation period is from 2018 to mid-2025.

Economic Planning Secretary Ernesto Pernia said the first phase of the subway project would not only ease traffic in Metro Manila but also improve the quality of life of Filipinos.

“For one, carbon emissions will be

reduced. And, with greater mobility, people can spend more time on things that matter to them,” Pernia said.

Travel time from Mindanao Ave. to FTI complex in Taguig City is expected to take only 31 minutes onboard the subway rail project. It is expected to serve 365,000 passengers in the first year of operations.

Phase 1 of the project, or the subway central zone, will traverse six cities, including Valenzuela City (for the depot), Quezon City, Pasig City, Makati City, Taguig City and Parañaque City. It will have underground stations at Mindanao Ave., Tandang Sora, North Ave., Quezon Ave., East Ave., Anonas, Katipunan, Ortigas North, Ortigas South, Kalayaan Ave., Fort Bonifacio, Cayetano Boulevard, FTI and Naia.

Toll roads unify collection systems

By Darwin G. Amojelar Corp., Private Infra De- seamlessly use their elecTOLL road operators signed an agreement to unify toll collection systems in the country, paving the way for faster and more seamless travel experience for motorists, the Transportation Department said Wednesday.

Under the agreement, the toll road companies are required to make the necessary tweaks in their toll collection systems to make them interoperable and integrated.

These companies include San Miguel Holdings

velopment Corp., Skyway O&M Corp., South Luzon Tollways Corp., Vertex Tollways Development Inc., Star Infrastructure Development Corp., NLEX Corp., Tollway Management Corp., Citra Metro Manila Tollways Corp., Manila Toll Expressway Systems Inc., Metro Pacific Tollways Corp., Cavitex Infrastructure Corp., PEA Tollway Corp., MPCala Holdings Inc., Ayala Corp. and MCX Tollway Inc. The Transportation Department said motorists using electronic tags could

tronic tag from one toll road operator in the toll road of another operator.

“For motorists still paying in cash, this means that in connected toll roads operated by different companies, they only have to get a ticket once at entry, and pay once at exit, regardless of which toll road they enter and exit from,” it said.

The agency said that after completion of the NLEx-SLEx connector roads, a motorist would need to have only a ticket once at an NLEx entry, and pay once at an SLEx exit.

IN BRIEF

Ford posts record August sales

FORD Philippines said Wednesday it posted record sales in August, with a 12-percent year-on-year growth to 3,166 vehicles, driven by strong demand for Ranger, Everest and EcoSport models.

“Our biggest-selling nameplates continued to drive our momentum in August. We’re looking to close the third quarter strong, while we continue to work with our dealers to further enhance the overall customer experience,” said Ford Philippines managing director Bertrand Lessard.

The Ranger led the record in August, with retail sales surging 65 percent from to 1,038 vehicles.Total sales of Ranger―the country’s second best-selling pick-up truck―increased 24 percent in the first eight months to 6,550 vehicles.

Sales of mid-size SUV Everest posted 18-percent growth to 1,027 vehicles, pushing its year-to-date sales to 7,797 vehicles.

The EcoSport compact SUV remained one of Ford’s best-selling vehicles in August, with retail sales growing 8 percent from previous year with 921 vehicles, helping drive its year-to-date sales up 15 percent to 7,013 vehicles. Ford’s North American-built models also contributed to the August performance.

The premium Explorer SUV saw sales grow 16 percent from a year ago to 88 vehicles, pushing its year-to-date sales up 4 percent to 724 vehicles. The Mustang sports car delivered sales of 34 vehicles, boosting its year-to-date sales up 24 percent to 256 units. Othel V. Campos

Russian buses coming to PH

GAZ Group, one of the leading manufacturers of commercial vehicles in Europe, signed an agreement on cooperation with Eastern Petroleum to roll out next generation buses in the Philippines.

Eastern Petroleum chairman and chief executive Fernando Martinez said the partnership with Gaz, which exports to more than 40 countries and a part of Basic Element, one of Russia’s leading diversified industrial groups, would allow them to aggressively participate in public transport modernization.

Martinez said more than 200,000 units jeepneys and vans were due for immediate replacement in the next five years under the government’s Fleet Modernization Program.

“The Gaz Group products fully comply with the environmental standards of the Philippines and also meet all requirements for comfort and safety. Moreover, Gaz Group has modern solutions for transporting low-mobility citizens, which fully fits the social needs of the modernization program,” Martinez said.

Eastern Petroleum, under the agreement receives rights for distribution and after-sales service of Gaz’s light commercial vehicles in the Philippines, including exclusive rights to sell Gazelle Next 17-seater minibus and Gazelle Next Cityline 20-seater bus.

The companies agreed that Gaz Group would supply the Philippines reliable and modern Gazelle Next buses, which fully meet the requirements of the fleet modernization program of the government.

The Gazelle Next family is a line of light commercial vehicles that combine high functionality and modern technical solutions. The Gazelle Next range includes trucks, utility vehicles, vans and minibuses.

Gazelle Next are equipped with diesel, gasoline or gas engines The first stage of the government’s modernization program will replace until 2023 more than 200,000 units―minibuses, medium and large buses―with new buses, and more than 150 new bus routes will be launched. Alena Mae S. Flores

B2

Business

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2017 extrastory2000@gmail.com

Market slides; MPIC, Megaworld top gainers

Security Bank gets BSP nod to add 4 board seats

By Julito G. Rada SECURITY Bank Corp., the fifth largest lender in terms of assets, said Wednesday it received the approval of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas and Securities and Exchange Commission to increase the number of board seats to 15 from the previous 11.

Security Bank said with the approval, the four directors who were elected during the shareholders meeting in April would formally assume their responsibilities as board members.

The new board members of Security Bank are Diana Aguilar, Dr. Jikyeong Kang (independent), Ramon Jimenez (independent) and Napoleon Nazareno (independent).

Aguilar is a commissioner at the Social Security System and

a member of the board of governors of the Employers Confederation of the Philippines.

She serves as director in several companies including Ionics, PLC-Philippine Seven Corp., PLC- Philex Petroleum Corp., Gate Distribution Enterprises, Electronic Commerce Payment Networks and Wenphil Corp.

Kang is the dean and president of the Asian Institute of Management, while Jimenez served as Tourism secretary under the Aquino administration. Nazareno was a former president and chief executive of PLDT Inc. and Smart Communications.

The board of directors of Security Bank is chaired by Alberto Villarosa, with Alfonso Salcedo Jr. as president and chief executive. Frederick Dy is the chairman emeritus of the bank.

S

TOCKS fell Wednesday, ending a four-day advance as it tracked the downfall of Asian markets worrying over escalating provocations from North Korea.

The Philippine Stock Exchange index, the 30-company benchmark, dropped 65 points, or 0.8 percent, to close at 7,983.97, as all six major sectors declined.

The heavier index, representing all shares, tumbled 27 points, or 0.6 percent, to settle at 4,739.21, on a value turnover of P6.7 billion. Losers outnumbered gainers, 111 to 71, while 66 issues were unchanged.

Five of the 20 most active stocks ended in the green, led by developer Megaworld Corp. which climbed 2.4 percent to P5.18 and conglomerate Metro Pacific Investments Corp. which rose 1.5 percent to P6.63.

DMCI Holdings Inc., the investment company of the Consunji family, gained 1.3 percent to P15.60.

Universal Robina Corp., the food manufacturing unit of

the Gokongwei Group, rose 1.3 percent to P152, while gaming company Bloomberry Resorts Corp. added 0.2 percent to finish at P11.58.

Meanwhile, equities slid from Hong Kong to Sydney and European equity-index futures declined as traders girded for a potential intercontinental ballistic missile launch by Pyongyang, which will celebrate its “foundation day” Saturday.

US stock futures fluctuated after the main gauges dropped overnight, hurt also by the historically powerful Hurricane Irma as it heads toward Florida.

Dovish comments from Federal Reserve officials helped propel a surge in US Treasuries and undercut the dol-

MANILA STANDARD BUSINESS DAILY STOCKS REVIEW WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2017

NAME

OPEN

VALUE

NET FOREIGN BUYING/(SELLING), PHP

FINANCIALS 4.5 1,135,000 59.5 39,470 103 1,801,570 127.5 4,243,370 1.39 60,000 35.9 95,000 10 2,000 16.1 1,500 30.4 750,800 0.71 13,012,000 86.65 3,373,730 1 190,000 13.16 21,600 60.3 22,190 238.8 90 110 1,020 88.1 10 51.3 1,020,860 241 460,900 1,810 5 86.8 49,150 1.33 59,000

5,178,450 2,345,113 185,622,130 540,961,696 83,710 3,415,475 20,000 24,140 22,875,550 9,155,270 293,368,719 188,170 284,252 1,340,334.50 21,484 112,200 881 52,319,321.50 110,779,156 9,050 4,266,267.50 78,470

2,316,007 -139,235,646 162,818,744 1,800,000 -13,453,925 9,660 -40,261,838.50 -225,722.50 277,322.50 -56,997,866 204,843 -

39.5 8.82 0.8 1.42 19.5 0.238 125 5.99 17.3 165 35.2 22.1 65 80 1.92 5.35 11.3 10.38 14.94 14 6.99 6.84 1.78 17 67.05 14.32 12.08 15.14 1.76 240 4.02 3.45 21.1 30.45 19 16.2 269 0.23 11.8 2.95 6.76 10.22 6.97 10.08 1.82 11.72 66.5 6.9 314 4.35 2.48 12.6 4.5 0.143 1.18 150.1 3.75 2.16 0.98

INDUSTRIAL 39.6 867,600 9 1,090,200 0.81 896,000 1.44 729,000 20 172,100 0.241 760,000 127.1 970 6.01 4,401,200 17.4 2,815,600 165 190 36.3 867,800 23 27,200 65 150 83.8 580 1.93 205,000 5.4 15,500 11.32 15,100 10.42 5,160,600 15 906,600 14.3 1,281,200 7 1,451,900 6.85 7,155,500 1.78 7,000 17.06 828,100 67.9 12,620 14.32 3,000 12.1 98,100 15.18 4,048,000 1.76 825,000 241 601,000 4.24 10,000 3.49 16,000 22.15 2,300 30.75 717,600 19.1 6,028,600 16.2 4,654,600 269.6 210,130 0.233 5,200,000 11.8 17,400 3 1,366,000 6.9 206,900 10.4 4,008,800 7.07 126,600 10.08 400 1.82 865,000 11.96 294,400 66.8 78,650 7 1,264,200 314 9,340 4.38 22,000 2.48 189,000 12.7 230,300 4.5 36,000 0.143 720,000 1.19 266,000 152 634,480 3.75 5,000 2.16 9,668,000 0.98 120,000

34,359,905 9,746,482 722,950 1,043,730 3,422,102 182,150 140,388 26,490,113 48,945,802 31,355 30,966,045 628,715 9,750 47,998 394,520 83,413 170,708 53,801,390 13,577,230 18,216,822 10,162,046 49,063,342 12,580 14,115,070 853,382.50 43,000 1,185,888 61,551,732 1,457,910 144,666,306 42,070 55,600 49,690 21,930,550 115,139,062 76,224,420 56,611,110 1,203,350 206,604 4,101,990 1,418,307 41,490,128 886,611 4,032 1,576,920 3,493,704 5,236,333 8,797,647 2,932,760 95,870 470,530 2,919,832 162,050 102,960 317,330 96,005,786 18,750 21,218,150 117,840

-4,540,880 -712,902 103,590 -4,608,826 23,894,960.00 154,420 -25,185 -3,924,324 3,751,660 912,480 -9,269,868 -13,227,170 1,087,204 106,574.50 -1,119,424 -36,217,632 352,000 11,039,002 19,035 -6,349,370 96,992,574 -32,044,680 2,115,608 16,660 14,796,628 413,140 -457,038 8,247,874 60,900 -588,992 -162,160 29,594,354 361,390 -

0.35 73.55 13.98 1.1 6.96 0.31 0.305 907.5 7.98 15.3 7.52 0.196 1,103 8.05 72.6 5.05 0.9 6.78 17.46 0.43 6.55 0.048 2.05 97.5 2.65 814 0.86 1.49 300 0.223

HOLDING FIRMS 0.36 340,000 74 750,210 14 11,233,400 1.12 50,000 6.96 6,300 0.32 4,010,000 0.325 12,690,000 912 338,090 8.04 2,006,500 15.6 6,045,100 7.6 9,100 0.205 530,000 1,105 316,480 8.05 300 73 1,138,280 5.05 3,100 0.92 1,316,000 6.83 395,700 18 834,800 0.435 80,000 6.63 33,411,300 0.053 196,200,000 2.05 276,000 98.1 100,390 2.66 17,000 815.5 253,480 0.86 10,000 1.49 603,000 300 130 0.223 1,050,000

120,150 55,475,818.50 157,473,458 55,960 43,869 1,254,500 3,872,800 308,049,240 16,062,600 93,774,702 68,760 106,430 351,429,080 2,415 83,098,966 15,655 1,208,650 2,701,490 14,893,962 34,650 220,931,151 10,137,400 568,030 9,847,987 45,280 206,993,955 8,600 901,870 39,038 236,350

-830,028 -9,688,446 -3,812,500 -46,960,175 4,517,668 -237,888 -31,160 -142,168,395 -31,012,729.50 135,658 4,034,660 48,260,603 -10,600 -6,342,238.50 -115,281,325 -34,440 -

5.34 1.17 6.79 2.34 1.01 42.6 3.74 4.85 5.3 5.6 0.51 1.3 1.54 0.23 0.495 44.5 0.68 0.148 1.83 1.46 0.96 5.02 0.28 0.52 0.5 5.5

PROPERTY 5.35 542,000 1.19 3,877,000 6.8 9,000 2.35 83,000 1.03 3,914,000 42.75 9,608,000 3.77 373,000 4.85 1,503,000 5.33 9,100 5.99 3,000 0.52 13,031,000 1.34 1,478,000 1.55 140,000 0.231 82,600,000 0.5 740,000 44.85 132,000 0.7 3,000 0.154 570,000 1.87 10,517,000 1.51 19,159,000 0.97 100,000 5.18 57,415,600 0.29 20,170,000 0.53 4,941,000 0.5 5,030,000 5.95 5,988,900

HIGH

LOW

CLOSE

AG FINANCE 4.72 ASIA UNITED 59.4 BANK PH ISLANDS 104.5 BDO UNIBANK 128 BRIGHT KINDLE 1.4 CHINABANK 36 CITYSTATE BANK 10 COL FINANCIAL 16.1 EAST WEST BANK 30.4 MEDCO HLDG 0.72 METROBANK 87.6 NTL REINSURANCE 0.98 PB BANK 13.14 PHIL NATL BANK 60.5 PHIL STOCK EXCH 238.6 PHILTRUST 110 PSBANK 88.1 RCBC 51.45 SECURITY BANK 244.6 SUN LIFE 1,810 UNION BANK 86.8 VANTAGE 1.33

4.75 59.5 104.5 128.2 1.4 36 10 16.1 30.6 0.73 87.6 1.01 13.16 60.5 238.8 110 88.1 51.45 244.6 1,810 86.9 1.33

4.5 59.4 102.7 127 1.36 35.65 10 16 30.35 0.69 86.6 0.98 13.14 60.3 238.6 110 88.1 51.1 239.6 1,810 86.75 1.33

ABOITIZ POWER 40.15 AGRINURTURE 8.82 ALLIANCE SELECT 0.81 ALSONS CONS 1.44 ASIABEST GROUP 20.3 BASIC ENERGY 0.239 BOGO MEDELLIN 137 CEMEX HLDG 6.05 CENTURY FOOD 17.6 CHEMPHIL 165 CIRTEK HLDG 36.7 CNTRL AZUCARERA22.5 CONCEPCION 65 CONCRETE A 86 CROWN ASIA 1.93 DAVINCI CAPITAL 5.36 DEL MONTE 11.3 DNL INDUS 10.56 EAGLE CEMENT 15.06 EEI CORP 14.26 EMPERADOR 7 ENERGY DEVT 6.86 EUROMED 1.8 FIRST GEN 17 FIRST PHIL HLDG 68 GINEBRA 14.34 HOLCIM 12.08 INTEGRATED MICR 15.3 IONICS 1.8 JOLLIBEE 243 LMG CHEMICALS 4.26 MABUHAY VINYL 3.47 MACAY HLDG 21.9 MANILA WATER 30.55 MAXS GROUP 19.16 MEGAWIDE 16.98 MERALCO 269.4 MG HLDG 0.232 PANASONIC 11.86 PEPSI COLA 2.96 PETROENERGY 6.87 PETRON 10.46 PHIL H2O 7.2 PHINMA 10.08 PHINMA ENERGY 1.83 PHX PETROLEUM 11.88 PILIPINAS SHELL 66.8 PRYCE CORP 6.98 PUREFOODS 314 RFM CORP 4.35 SFA SEMICON 2.52 SHAKEYS PIZZA 12.78 SPC POWER 4.55 SWIFT FOODS 0.143 TKC METALS 1.19 UNIV ROBINA 150.9 VICTORIAS 3.75 VITARICH 2.22 VULCAN INDL 1

40.15 9.08 0.81 1.45 20.75 0.241 148 6.06 17.6 165.1 36.7 23.9 65 86 1.93 5.4 11.36 10.56 15.06 14.3 7.02 6.87 1.8 17.1 68 14.34 12.1 15.3 1.8 243 4.26 3.49 22.15 30.8 19.16 16.98 269.6 0.235 11.9 3.04 7.02 10.46 7.2 10.08 1.83 12.1 66.9 7.1 314 4.38 2.52 12.78 4.55 0.143 1.23 152 3.75 2.26 1

ABACORE CAPITAL ABOITIZ EQUITY ALLIANCE GLOBAL ANGLO PHIL HLDG ANSCOR ATN HLDG A ATN HLDG B AYALA CORP COSCO CAPITAL DMCI HLDG FILINVEST DEV 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 ZEUS HLDG

0.36 74 14.2 1.12 7.03 0.32 0.325 919 8.04 15.6 7.6 0.205 1,132 8.05 73.7 5.05 0.94 6.83 18 0.435 6.63 0.053 2.06 98.9 2.75 828 0.86 1.53 301.8 0.227

0.36 74 14.2 1.1 7.03 0.32 0.315 919 8.02 15.32 7.6 0.197 1,132 8.05 73.5 5.05 0.93 6.83 18 0.43 6.55 0.049 2.06 98.9 2.65 820 0.86 1.53 301.8 0.227

8990 HLDG 5.35 A BROWN 1.18 ANCHOR LAND 6.79 ARANETA PROP 2.34 ARTHALAND CORP 1.04 AYALA LAND 42.8 BELLE CORP 3.74 CEB LANDMASTERS 4.89 CEBU HLDG 5.33 CEBU PROP B 5.6 CENTURY PROP 0.52 CITY AND LAND 1.3 CITYLAND DEVT 1.57 CROWN EQUITIES 0.243 CYBER BAY 0.495 DOUBLEDRAGON 44.8 EMPIRE EAST 0.68 EVER GOTESCO 0.15 FILINVEST LAND 1.84 GLOBAL ESTATE 1.49 IRC PROP 0.96 MEGAWORLD 5.07 MRC ALLIED 0.285 PHIL ESTATES 0.54 PHIL REALTY 0.51 PRIMEX CORP 5.5

5.4 1.2 6.8 2.39 1.04 42.9 3.8 4.97 5.33 5.99 0.53 1.39 1.57 0.247 0.5 45.2 0.7 0.154 1.87 1.52 0.99 5.18 0.29 0.55 0.52 5.95

VOLUME

HIGH

LOW

CLOSE

VOLUME

VALUE

NET FOREIGN BUYING/(SELLING), PHP

22.85 1.78 3.25 33.95 1.01 7.5 0.86 6

23.2 1.8 3.25 33.95 1.01 7.5 0.89 6

22.8 1.78 3.2 33.15 1 7.5 0.86 5.94

23 1.79 3.24 33.4 1.01 7.5 0.88 5.96

2,642,200 82,000 39,000 8,885,900 785,000 100 169,000 1,822,100

60,738,945 146,270 125,090 297,164,280 792,800 750 147,310 10,883,963

-3,511,990 -135,729,130 -6,273,713

2GO GROUP 19.52 ABS CBN 41.05 ACESITE HOTEL 1.66 APC GROUP 0.54 APOLLO GLOBAL 0.041 ASIAN TERMINALS 11.2 BERJAYA 5.11 BLOOMBERRY 11.5 BOULEVARD HLDG 0.074 CEBU AIR 107.5 CENTRO ESCOLAR 9.7 CHELSEA 10.52 DFNN INC 7.9 FAR EASTERN U 970 GLOBE TELECOM 2,000 GMA NETWORK 6.1 GOLDEN HAVEN 17.4 HARBOR STAR 2.63 IMPERIAL 3.03 INTL CONTAINER 103 IPEOPLE 11.96 IPM HLDG 8.45 ISLAND INFO 0.174 ISM COMM 1.36 JACKSTONES 3.05 LBC EXPRESS 15.78 LEISURE AND RES 4.58 LORENZO SHIPPNG 1.49 MACROASIA 10.64 MANILA BULLETIN 0.56 MANILA JOCKEY 2.4 MELCO RESORTS 9.06 METRO RETAIL 4.28 MLA BRDCASTING 19.5 NOW CORP 2.4 PACIFIC ONLINE 11.02 PAL HLDG 5.11 PAXYS 2.95 PHIL RACING 8.25 PHIL SEVEN CORP 170 PHILWEB 10.56 PLDT 1,740 PREMIUM LEISURE 1.68 PRMIERE HORIZON 0.395 PUREGOLD 48.5 ROBINSONS RTL 91.1 SBS PHIL CORP 5.8 SSI GROUP 4.56 STI HLDG 1.47 TRANSPACIFIC BR 1.83 TRAVELLERS 3.47 WATERFRONT 1.22 WILCON DEPOT 9.15

19.6 41.05 1.69 0.55 0.041 11.2 5.11 11.9 0.075 108 9.7 10.68 8 970 2,020 6.1 17.7 3 3.19 104.2 11.96 8.45 0.174 1.36 3.08 15.9 4.58 1.51 11.5 0.58 2.4 9.2 4.28 21 2.4 11.04 5.12 3 8.25 170 10.7 1,740 1.68 0.395 48.9 93.75 5.94 4.56 1.5 1.94 3.49 1.25 9.44

19.2 40.5 1.56 0.54 0.04 11.2 5 11.46 0.072 106.9 9.7 10.46 7.52 970 1,995 6.05 17.36 2.63 3 103 11.96 8.45 0.169 1.35 3 15.78 4.5 1.45 10.6 0.56 2.4 9.02 4.15 18.1 2.36 11.02 5.11 2.95 8.25 169.8 10.52 1,720 1.65 0.395 48 91.1 5.74 4.4 1.46 1.83 3.44 1.21 9.05

SERVICES 19.32 41,800 40.5 125,500 1.58 514,000 0.55 8,309,000 0.041 1,100,000 11.2 500 5.11 77,000 11.58 21,184,600 0.072 19,920,000 107.2 317,880 9.7 500 10.46 2,923,800 7.7 154,300 970 40 2,000 13,655 6.05 526,900 17.7 193,900 2.95 9,194,000 3.19 38,000 104.2 949,970 11.96 100 8.45 253,000 0.172 3,390,000 1.35 81,000 3 34,000 15.9 30,100 4.53 908,000 1.48 1,063,000 11.42 6,548,400 0.58 22,000 2.4 83,000 9.13 7,158,200 4.25 2,154,000 19.58 15,400 2.36 858,000 11.04 3,400 5.11 7,600 2.99 14,000 8.25 100 170 1,180 10.54 2,305,100 1,720 166,845 1.68 9,170,000 0.395 1,050,000 48.9 1,595,800 93.2 584,680 5.92 38,000 4.54 6,602,000 1.49 5,626,000 1.94 1,821,000 3.49 703,000 1.23 9,561,000 9.4 5,817,200

810,996 5,108,960 824,470 4,494,810 44,300 5,600 387,736 248,125,186 1,454,510 34,101,013 4,850 30,910,096 1,175,816 38,800 27,304,690 3,195,881 3,390,114 26,060,480 116,130 98,627,058 1,196 2,137,850 577,480 109,450 102,240 478,386 4,106,230 1,566,150 72,839,264 12,360 199,200 65,275,790 9,098,560 298,198 2,030,080 37,488 38,846 41,750 825 200,569 24,362,314 287,323,425 15,340,270 414,750 77,324,530 54,358,456.50 219,841 29,544,380 8,375,160 3,332,540 2,442,860 11,751,560 54,094,055

3,018 -18,379,950 -730 25,417,369 -4,043,294 -110,490 -8,516,810 166,224 103,870 -7,877,627 -1,066,470 -7,500 -3,920,000.00 -11,510,764 -841,250 1,080,880 -78,200 3,797,344.00 -8,327,090 -95,850 -14,310,395 2,980,153.50 -11,727,790 4,507,810 -3,330,600 37,950 1,834,470 -2,242,455

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

0.0029 1.73 5.29 13.7 1.85 1.84 1.24 0.39 8.51 2.63 0.27 0.188 0.199 0.011 2 7.9 1.87 0.54 1.23 0.013 0.014 0.013 2.43 8.81 4.71 174.4 0.0079

0.0029 1.73 5.29 13.7 1.85 1.84 1.26 0.39 8.91 2.64 0.28 0.188 0.199 0.011 2.05 7.9 1.92 0.54 1.24 0.014 0.015 0.013 2.45 8.81 5.05 174.4 0.008

0.0027 1.69 5.2 13.66 1.85 1.84 1.24 0.38 8.38 2.56 0.265 0.183 0.199 0.01 2 7.6 1.85 0.52 1.11 0.012 0.014 0.012 2.43 8.66 4.58 173.1 0.0076

MINING & OIL 0.0028 1,411,000,000 1.71 3,670,000 5.2 122,600 13.68 3,000 1.85 2,000 1.84 13,000 1.25 1,682,000 0.38 730,000 8.38 9,800 2.59 5,635,000 0.275 520,000 0.183 4,060,000 0.199 30,000 0.011 75,200,000 2.01 702,000 7.6 6,058,400 1.9 58,000 0.54 111,000 1.14 2,986,000 0.013 55,700,000 0.014 221,600,000 0.013 104,700,000 2.45 14,000 8.73 528,200 4.97 15,073,000 173.3 742,560 0.008 17,000,000

3,820,200 6,280,030 642,451 41,052 3,700 23,920 2,099,070 278,900 83,245 14,658,470 140,700 744,670 5,970 807,700 1,423,540 46,499,160 108,290 58,340 3,451,140 732,600 3,109,500 1,296,200 34,200 4,609,356 73,865,280 128,789,395 131,600

-15,840 0 -2,181,570 668,500 4,645,912 18,700 56,540 -1,120,000 2,400 -26,066 10,383,440 -34,262,631 7,600

PREFERRED ABS HLDG PDR AC PREF B1 ALCO PREF B DD PREF FGEN PREF F GLO PREF P GMA HLDG PDR LR PREF MWIDE PREF PF PREF 2 PNX PREF 3A SFI PREF SMC PREF 2B SMC PREF 2D SMC PREF 2E SMC PREF 2H SMC PREF 2I

40.45 515 106 106.3 111.7 515 5.81 1.06 108 1,015 107 2.1 76.95 77.05 79.95 79.5 80.15

40.5 516.5 106 106.3 111.7 515 5.81 1.07 108 1,015 107 2.1 76.95 77.05 79.95 79.5 80.2

40.45 515 106 105.2 111.7 515 5.8 1.04 108 1,015 107 2.1 76.45 77 78.5 79.5 80.15

40.45 516.5 106 105.2 111.7 515 5.8 1.04 108 1,015 107 2.1 76.5 77 78.5 79.5 80.2

1,732,045 4,087,800 53,000 13,808 1,117 2,060,000 3,264,954 402,220 1,080 5,075 1,070 2,100 253,070 766,495 1,760,720 3,617,250 3,436,174

667,440 53,000 -3,241,734 -23,715 234,850 230,174

LR WARRANT

2.55

2.56

2.52

WARRANTS 2.56 247,000

626,310

-

ITALPINAS PHILAB HLDG XURPAS

4.29 5.05 6.1

4.5 5.05 6.3

4.25 4.93 5.99

SME 4.5 5 6.21

6,600,180 96,849 29,091,181

-306,650 6,648,749

FIRST METRO ETF 120.5

121.3

EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS 120.1 120.7 2,460

297,050

-69,940

USD DMPL A1

10.54

10.5

DDS 10.5

105,188

-

NAME

OPEN

ROBINSONS LAND ROCKWELL SHANG PROP SM PRIME HLDG STA LUCIA LAND STARMALLS SUNTRUST HOME VISTA LAND

MS 2,899,098 4,594,270 61,176 194,560 4,002,550 410,607,285 1,404,050 7,327,970 48,413 17,190 6,786,750 1,986,790 216,870 19,649,820 366,350 5,916,060 2,080 85,940 19,558,710 28,417,740 97,970 294,623,213 5,724,950 2,644,380 2,546,930 34,664,370

-2,645,560 -226,560 -4,680 147,429,200 601,940 1,081,960 -581,360 -27,200 -1,213,960 284,500 24,360 10,492,650 -5,544,450 56,226,730 -8,550 100,000 -571,875

10.54

TRADING SUMMARY

SHARES

VALUE

FINANCIAL

26,679,525

1,262,058,765.33

INDUSTRIAL

74,529,381

1,060,153,421.06

282,956,490

1,620,850,770.78

HOLDING FIRMS PROPERTY

256,373,202

1,224,561,212.42

SERVICES

134,515,899

1,222,343,347.01

MINING & OIL

1,928,261,855

293,833,537.835

GRAND TOTAL

2,709,552,486

6,719,888,659.06

42,800 7,920 500 130 10 4,000 562,900 381,000 10 5 10 1,000 3,310 9,950 22,200 45,500 42,870

1,489,000 19,500 4,724,600

10,000

FINANCIAL 1,963.51 (down) 19.10 INDUSTRIAL 11,150.95 (down) 23.19 HOLDING FIRMS 7,870.87 (down) 70.82 PROPERTY 3,760.77 (down) 20.50 SERVICES 1,726.74 (down) 8.82 MINING & OIL 13,431.82 (down) 154.77 PSEI 7,983.97 (down) 65.38 All Shares Index 4,739.21 (down) 27.72 Gainers: 71; Losers: 111; Unchanged: 66; Total: 248

lar, with traders increasingly skeptical the central bank will raise interest rates again this year.

The case for a continued risk-off tone was supported by a lack of consensus among the US, Russia and China on how to pressure Kim Jong Un to abandon his nuclear ambitions. Russian President Vladimir Putin has rejected US calls for more sanctions, echoing China’s resistance to more punitive measures.

Further volatility may be in store as the North Korea situation evolves. Ruchir Sharma, Morgan Stanley head of emerging markets and chief global strategist, told Bloomberg Television that “markets have a terrible history of pricing in geopolitics.” He predicted “shallow declines,” though not enough to avoid being “taken by complete surprise” in the event of something serious happening.

The North Korean nuclear crisis dragged Asian markets further into the red. With few other catalysts to deflect attention from the face off with Pyongyang, investors continue to flock to safe-haven assets, sending gold to near oneyear highs and the yen flying.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres warned against “confrontational rhetoric” towards Kim JongUn’s regime and called for a single strategy to address the crisis issue following Sunday’s apparent test of a massive nuclear device.

While the heated rhetoric of the previous two days has cooled, there are fears of a fresh flare up as the North is feared to be preparing another missile launch to mark its foundation day.

With Bloomberg, AFP

Now Corp. swings to net profit

By Darwin G. Amojelar NOW Corp., a listed company controlled by the Velarde family, said it posted a net profit in the first half, boosted by higher sales from broadband, software and other businesses.

Now said net income reached P2.25 million in January to June, a turnaround from a net loss of P9.70 million recorded in the same period in 2016.

The company said gross revenues jumped 120 percent in the first half to P68.09 million from P30.87 million a year ago.

Now said the major turnaround was achieved despite a 50-percent increase in total expenses to P64.876 million from P40.58 million, on higher cost of sales, salaries and benefits, taxes and licenses fees, transportation and other expenses brought by the high growth business of wireless broadband.

“We are happy to announce that all of the company’s business segments are doing well,” Now president and chief executive Mel Velarde said.

Velarde said the overall higher revenue was led by higher sales generated from broadband delivery, software services and deployment of company’s IT professionals to render mission critical IT solutions and services to blue chip companies.

“We expect the strong revenue and profit momentum to continue in the second half of the year since our business segments, especially our broadband business, continue to produce outstanding results.” Velarde said.

Business

B3

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2017 extrastory2000@gmail.com

Ayala eyes inclusive businesses

By Othel V. Campos

IRAQI DELEGATION. Clark Development Corp. president and chief executive officers Noel Manankil (fifth from left) joins visitors from the Iraqi Ministry of Transportation led by Commercial Director of Iraqi Airways Amer Al Sakab (middle), Iraqi Ports Company Capt. Abdul Zahra Abdul Mahdi (fifth from right), and Maritime Control Officer of Iraqi Ports Company Mustafa Essa Hummadi (fourth from right) after the briefings on the development of Clark. With them are Clark International Airport Corp. president Alexander Cauguiran (third from right) and (from left) are CDC assistant vice president for marketing Rodem Perez, Bases Conversation Development Authority maketing-officer-in-charge Christian Paolo Quillamor, Subic Clark Alliance for Development Council executive director Linda Pamintuan, Philippine Envoy to Iraq Elmer Cato, CDC VP for business development and business enhancement group Evageline Tejada and CDC manager for communications division Noel Tulabut.

How much GDP growth in 2017?

THE year having moved into its last third, government policymakers and private-sector economic analysts have begun the process of predicting the 2017 GDP (gross domestic product) growth that will most closely approximate the Philippine economy’s eventual full-year performance. Economic forecasting being one of the riskiest activities known to man, they will be proceeding with utmost caution.

The benchmarks again which the government and private-sector analysts will choose for their forecasting chore will be Philippine economy’s performance during the last two years. The economy grew by 6.9 percent in 2016, by 6.45 percent during the first quarter of 2017 and by 6.45 percent during this year’s first semester.

The analysts/forecasters will of necessity have to take into account the government’s 2017 growth-rate target, which is 6.5 percent to 7.5 percent. This is unchanged from that for 2016.

The average annual GDP growth rate of the Benigno Aquino III years (2010-2016) was 6.1 percent.

Following the exuberance generated by the last two years o the Aquino administration, a tempering of expectations about Philippine economic growth has been noted in recent months. Whereas most of the 2017 GDP growth forecasts used to be in the close-to-7-percent area, a member of major institutional prognostications have undergone adjustment down to the vicinity of 6.3-6.5 percent. These include international institutions and governments.

One of the institutions that of late have adopted a more cautious approach to the 2017 prospects of the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte in Global Source, whose analytical issuances are co-written by former Undersecretary of Finance Romeo L. Bernardo.

In the view of Global Source, the Philippine economy will probably grow by 6.5 percent this year and slow down to 6.3 percent GDP growth in 2018. Like all economic forecasts, Global Source’s 6.5 percent forecast is the net outcome of the interplay of positive factors and negative factors affecting the management of the Philippine economy by the Duterte administration.

True, there are positive things going for the Duterte-governed economy, the latest Global Source analytical issuance says. It speaks of “the appointment of a solid economic team, continuity in the projects started by the previous administration (and) appointments in the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas,” among other things. The tax reform program and “ambitious” infrastructure program which it also speaks of are still very much works-in-progress. It “expected a greater contribution from exports in 2017.”

But the negative factors clearly appear to have weighed more heavily onr. Bernardo and his colleagues in their latest issuance on the Philippine economy’s performance in full-year 2017.

They spoke of “increased policy unpredictability, the President’s irreverent attitude and outsider image.” Bad decisions had been made, they said. These included “the appointment of Leftists to the Cabinet, the flipflopping on rice importations, the unaffordable increase in (SSS) pension, the provision of free irrigation and the enactment of free education in public tertiary schools.”

Did these negative factors give rise to a “weaker BOP (balance of payment) current account” and “slower growth in consumer demand?” Mr. Bernardo and his colleagues appear to discern a connection. 6.5 percent growth for the Philippine GDP this year? That clearly is the number around which most forecasts of the Philippine economy’s 2017 performance have begun to gravitate.

E-mail: romero.business.class@gmail.com

THE Ayala Group is interested in registering several projects with the Board of Investments as inclusive businesses under the newly-approved Investments Priorities Plan, especially tourism-oriented activities that encourage community participation.

Ayala Corp. head of corporate strategy and development Paolo Borromeo said Ayala was aware of the IB initiative of the Department of Trade and Industry.

“We have not applied yet (with the BoI). But we will be interested to look at the Investment Priorities Plan and see where can we work with the government,” he said Wednesday during the briefing on

Asean 2017 Inclusive Business Summit in Pasay City.

He cited the township project in Lio, Palawan province where the company is tapping the services of local residents to help create new livelihoods and prop up local economy.

The project is expected to generate new job opportunities for the local population, both direct and indirect, one of the criteria in promoting IB in the private sector.

“Our goal is to really engage the community, encourage more livelihood projects and training so we can bring more jobs especially to the people living there,” Borromeo said.

Other Ayala Group projects that may fall under IB

include the development project in Iloilo, the Sicogon Island development and the Anvaya Resort in Bataan.

“We’ve always been interested in IB businesses while there are other business that are just part of our organization,” he added.

The Ayala Group was one of the Asean awardees for Inclusive Business for its approach to delivering affordable medicines to the Filipino people through its Generika Drugstore chain.

Borromeo noted Generika was a good example of inclusive business because of the affordable medicines sold, providing a means of livelihood to individuals, retirees and owners of medium scale enterprises.

ERC: Paltry budget to destabilize power

By Alena Mae S. Flores

T

HE Energy Regulatory Commission and Senator Sherwin Gatchalian on Wednesday appealed the decision of the House of Representatives to allocate just P1,000 for the agency’s 2018 budget, saying it will have a devastating impact on the energy industry.

The ERC, in a statement, said it respected the decision of the House and understood the issues weighing heavily on the agency.

Rep. Celso Lobregat moved to sponsor P1,000 for the ERC during the plenary deliberations on the 2018 national budget. Rep. Lito Atienza, a member of the minority, seconded his motion.

“And we share the sentiments of the esteemed Congressmen as we strive to resolve the said controversies following the death of a beloved colleague, ERC director and Bids and Awards Committee chairman Francisco Jose Villa Jr.,” the statement said.

Gatchalian warned against drastically cutting the 2018 budget of the ERC and cautioned his fellow lawmakers of the potentially devastating impact on the stability of the power sector.

The ERC had originally requested an allocation of P365 million to fund its operations next year.

The ERC is responsible for approving power rates and issuing key permits required to get pending power projects off the ground.

Gatchalian expressed concer the massive budget cut would severely hamper the ERC’s ability to fulfill these functions.

“The ERC plays an indispensable role in the energy sector as its foremost regulatory institution. I fear that this budget cut will send a bad signal to energy investors and breed uncertainty in terms of electricity supply and power rates,” said Gatchalian, the chairman of the Senate Energy Committee.

The ERC said the commissioners conducted an internal inquiry on the allegations raised by Villa and submitted a comprehensive report to the Office of the President on April 2017.

The report detailed “the irregularities ranging from failure to follow procurement procedures, concealment of documents and among others, unilaterally signing orders without commission deliberations and approval.”

The ERC said the report and an anonymous complaint from concerned employees prompted Malacañang to further investigate the allegations leveled against ERC chairman and chief executive officer Jose Vicente Salazar, who was suspended for insubordination.

The regulator said other government agencies had conducted their respective investigations into the irregularities, and that the commissioners as well as staff cooperated to arrive at an early resolution of the issues.

“The four commissioners, during chairman Salazar’s suspension, are striving to guide the agency to discharge its functions as normally as possible. However, Salazar’s infractions and their far-reaching effects continue to hound the agency, and these have not escaped the attention of Congress and the public in general, thus, the call for the resolution of the said issues,” it said.

Maynilad replaces 204 km of old pipes

By Anna Leah E. Gonzales

WEST zone concessionaire Maynilad Water Services Inc. has replaced 204 kilometers of old, leaky pipes in the first six months of 2017 as part of a program to upgrade the distribution system and reduce water losses.

Maynilad said the job brought the total length of pipes replaced within the company’s concession area to 1,913 kilometers, or 47 percent of the distribution system that the company inherited 10 years ago following the 2007 water re-privatization.

Mayniladthis year allotted P2.87 billion to replace 300 kilometers of old pipes in several portions of its concession area. Pipe replacements as of June 30, 2017 were completed in Manila, Quezon City, Parañaque, Caloocan, Muntinlupa and Las Piñas.

The company said it plans to recover 70 million liters per day of potable water from its pipe replacement initiatives by the end of the year. The volume is enough to supply the water requirements of about 70,000 customers.

Maynilad expects to generate about 9,000 jobs from the pipe replacement projects this year.

“We have to sustain investments in the renewal of Maynilad’s distribution system, which is old and riddled with illegal connections. Through selective pipe replacement, we are able to do this in the most efficient way,” said Maynilad president and chief executive officer Ramoncito Fernandez.

ICTSI MELBOURNE AWARD. Victoria International Container Terminal, a unit of International Container Terminal Services Inc., wins the ‘Application of Technology Award’ at the annual Victorian Transport Association AFIAs at Crown’s Palladium Ballroom in Melbourne on September 2, 2017. VICT was also a finalist in the ‘Young Achiever of the Year Award’ category, nominating team member Stuart Finch from the automated container terminal’s Engineering Department.

Electricity supply interruptions probed THE Senate Committee on Energy will pursue legal remedies to hold accountable those responsible for power interruptions in many parts of Palawan, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian said on Wednesday.

Gatchalian directed the National Electrification Administration to look into the liabilities of private generation companies and the Palawan Electric Cooperative, saying their inaction led to the prolonged power shortage that started since January this year.

“The most glaring problem that has caused the power outages is the failure of the gencos to deliver on their commitments. We can hold these gencos for breach of contract, and the Paleco for possible mismanagement of the utilities,” said the lawmaker.

Gatchalian, who chairs

the Senate Committee on Energy, said the power supply of Palawan must be stabilized “as soon as possible.”

The senator also blamed DMCI Power Corp. for its failure to deliver the 25-megawatt capacity under a power supply agreement with the Paleco.

DMCI Power earlier said it met its power supply obligation with a total of 26.6 MW available power as of the end of August.

The committee, however, said DMCI had been delivering less than its power supply commitment, which the Paleco and Gatchalian earlier said was the primary reason for the power shortage.

Gatchalian has ordered the DMCI to submit a plan of action to sustain the supply of power to Palawan.

The senator required

DMCI to submit its performance report on a per generation set basis for the last 60 days.

Gatchalian also asked the NEA to require the Paleco to submit a performance report on the three gencos, which have existing power supply agreements with the electric cooperative.

“It is time for NEA to flex its muscles in extracting info from Paleco,” he said.

“Let us all move forward and solve this problem. The status quo is not acceptable to the people of Palawan,” Gatchalian said.

NEA administrator Edgardo Masongsong said the agency would deploy a technical team to Palawan this week to further evaluate the situation. They are expected to meet with Paleco executives as well as other local government officials.

Alena Mae S. Flores

BDO Insurance, Pioneer, SM Store sign agreement

By Julito G. Rada BDO Insurance Brokers Inc., the number one insurance broker in the Philippines and wholly-owned

by BDO Unibank Inc., signed a partnership agreement with Pioneer Insurance to make insurance products available in all SM department stores nationwide.

BDO Insurance general manager Tracy Tan, in a briefing in Makati City Wednesday that formally announced the three-way partnership along with The SM Store, said auto, travel and health insurance (especially for dengue) could be availed in SM department stores.

“Five years ago, BDO chairperson Tessie Sy asked us to offer insurance products in SM malls,” Tan said. She said making these products more accessible

could make more people aware about them.

“BDO Insurance Brokers and SM took on the challenge that is why Insure ME (Made Easy) was born,” Tan said. She said the next step was to find an insurance partner who shares BDO’s vision,thus, the tie-up with Pioneer.

The Safe Trip Comprehensive Travel Insurance Worldwide 2.5M provides medical treatment cover of up to P2.5 million and satisfies the Schengen Visa requirement.

It also offers personal accident up to P1,000,000, personal liability up to P1.5 million and covers travel inconveniences, such as trip cancellation, flight delay and loss of baggage.

It aprovides access to emergency and travel assistance hotlines. Safe Trip also comes in the Worldwide 1M and the Domestic 500K variants.

5 dead, 11 hurt as speeding jeep plows into pole

Jimbo Owen Gulle, Editor jimbo.gulle@gmail.com mslocalgov@gmail.com

B4

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2017

LGUs LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS

STORY TIME. Binibining Pilipinas Globe 2017 Nelda Ibe (left) and Binibining Pilipinas Intercontinental 2017 Katarina Rodriguez (right) take turns reading a story to 40 grade school students at the Cubao Elementary School in Quezon City as part of their work with the beauty pageant’s foundation. Manny Palmero

KAWIT, Cavite—Five persons died on the spot and 11 more were injured Wednesday morning as the speeding jeepney they were riding crashed into a concrete electrical pole along the Centennial Highway in Barangay Tabon 3 here.

Police Chief Inspector Dhefry Punzalan, acting Chief of Police of Kawit, said the jeepney, with plate number DVK-713 and driven

by Emmanuel Asis Genzole, a resident of Barangay Bunga in nearby Tanza, crashed into a Meralco pole around 6 a.m.

Genzole, 52, had been driving recklessly but lost control of the vehicle as it slammed into the concrete post, according to officer on case PO2 Nelvin S. Trajico. The driver was among the injured treated by the Kawit Rescue Unit and brought to the Divine Grace Hospital in Tejero, General Trias City.

Four of the fatalities were women: Lorena Abiera Isaias, 43; Lorena Purificacion, 44; Malanie Andaya Macalalad, 32; and Florijane Archivida, of legal age.

Christian Pallera, 36, also succumbed to the “self-accident” as described by the police. He and the women were declared dead on arrival at the hospital.

Pictures posted by online news agencies showed the jeep’s hood engulfing the concrete post, underscoring the speed of the impact.

Aside from Genzole, police identified the injured as Joanna Campos, 31; Arjay P Valencia, 24; Jullan Villamor, 24; Jovie Love Cañada, 27; Rosalie Raquea Pallera, 40; Armando Molina, 69; Richard Refonte, 26; Elizabeth Gutierrez, 33; Fatima Illardo, 23; and Hazel Dimaala, 29.

Diseases on the rise

L

EGAZPI CITY—A woman died from diarrhea Tuesday, while an 11-year-old child succumbed to meningococcemia late Monday, both in Pioduran, Albay.

Meanwhile, close to 100 people were hospitalized due to a diarrhea outbreak that was traced to unsafe drinking water in the same area.

Criselda Imperial Atuli of Badian village, Pioduran town was reported to have died due to diarrhea, while her two children are still confined at Pioduran District Hospital.

The outbreak is not only in Pioduran but is also af-

fecting the municipalities of Oas and Libon, authorities said. Oas Mayor Domingo Escoto is seeking assistance from the provincial government to contain the outbreak affecting farflung villages of his town.

Escoto visited the diarrhea patients on Tuesday and told the residents of Cagmanaba and nearby villages to stop drinking

water from deep wells. He added that the municipal government would start providing water and other medical assistance to the affected barangays.

“We need also the intervention and assistance of the provincial government to assist us because the incident is widespread and blown out of proportion,” he said.

On the other hand, the meningococcemia victim, a boy from Barangay Caratagan, Pioduran was buried immediately—in his parents’ absence—to con-

tain the virus, according to board member Pem Arandia of Albay’s third district.

The parents of the child, according to Arandia, were in Metro Manila.

Contact tracing is being done by health authorities to provide necessary medicine.

Meningococcemia is an infection caused by the Neisseria meningitidis bacteria, the same type of bacteria that can cause meningitis.

In another development, the Iloilo City Health Office is urging the public not to take for granted possible signs of dengue and always

immediately seek medical attention, as it recorded three deaths due to the disease in August.

CHO head Dr. Bernard Caspe on Wednesday said the deaths are among the city’s 187 dengue cases recorded since January, where two cases were recorded in August and another case in July.

The number of cases, however, dropped almost 80 percent compared to the same period last year with 968 cases. Dengue has claimed six lives in the city so far in 2017.

Caspe underscored the need for early consultation and not wait for the patient to manifest rashes or bleeding, stressing that dengue can be treated once it is diagnosed early.

Dengue has no specific treatment because it needs supported care if it is properly diagnosed, he added.

“What is important is to seek consultation once a fever has been lingering for two days already,” Caspe said. “There are rapid tests that can detect if a day with fever is already a dengue case.” PNA

IN BRIEF Vizcaya opens P2-m bridge in Bambang BAMBANG, Nueva Vizcaya—Provincial, municipal and barangay officials here yesterday formally opened a bridge worth P2 million in Barangay Duliao that will bring farmers closer and faster to the market.

Governor Carlos Padilla said the provincial government allotted the fund for the completion of the Duliao bridge after it was destroyed by previous typhoons.

Padilla also vowed 1,000 bags of cement for the development of the nearby access road to augment the infrastructure support of the Bambang local government by improving the bridge’s approach.

“This will serve as an alternative road for farmers in transporting their produce to the market, thereby reducing their transport costs,” Padilla said.

He said the bridge that will connect farmers of barangays Duliao, San Antonio North, and San Antonio South to the town market is expected to boost the farmers’ income.

Padilla added that a P30-million Small Water Impounding Project of the Department of Agriculture will also help farmers in improving their produce at 6,000 cavans per cropping.

Ben Moses Ebreo

Segun is new Cavite provincial police chief IMUS, Cavite—Senior Supt. William M. Segun is the new Cavite Provincial Police Director, assuming his post Monday as the new leader of the police in the seven cities and 16 municipalities of the province.

According to Cavite Police Public Information Officer Supt.

Janet Arinabo, Segun is a member of the Philippine National Police Academy Batch 1995 and comes from a stint as Chief of Police of San Juan City. He replaced Senior Supt. Arthur Bisnar, now Chief of the Directorial Staff under the Quezon City Police District and National Capital Region Police Office.

Segun is not new to Cavite, being the former Chief of Police of Tagaytay City. He has also seen duty with the Philippine National Police Special Action Force and was part of the PNP group sent to the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Kosovo.

STRIKE THREE. Cavite Rep. Strike Revilla (fourth from left) stands beside Senator Manny Pacquiao after three of his proposed House Bills passed the committee level of the Senate Committees on Public Works, Public Services and Finance.

Revilla’s HB 5438 aims to upgrade the sub-district engineering office in Carmona, Cavite (co-authored by Reps. Roy Loyola, Jennifer Barzaga and Celso Lobregat); HB 5123, renaming Molino Boulevard in Bacoor as Bacoor Boulevard (co-authored by Rep. Lobregat); and HB 5002, renaming the Molino-Salawag-Paliparan 1 road in Dasmariñas City as the Bacoor-Dasmariñas National Road (co-authored by Rep. Barzaga and Rep. Lobregat). Also in photo (from left) are Cavite Reps. Loyola, Abraham Tolentino, Jon-Jon Ferrer and Alex Advincula. Lino Santos

Soriano regains position as mayor

By Abe Almirol

TUGUEGARAO CITY, C a g ay a n — D i s m i s s e d City Mayor Jefferson Soriano has been reinstated after the 4th Division of the Court of Appeals overturned an earlier decision promulgated in January.

Judge Maita Israel Deray administered Soriano’s oath at the Tuguegarao City Hall, where the CA decision was announced on Wednesday.

In a copy of the decision presented to reporters here, the CA said Soriano should only be suspended three months instead of being dismissed from service.

The Ombudsman’s dismissal order had said: “Soriano committed grave abuse of authority when he gave a provisional permit to operate a parking terminal without the approval of the city council.”

The appellate court, however, disagreed with the anti-graft court, saying Soriano only committed simple misconduct, a violation that should be imposed with a 90-day suspension as penalty.

Valenzuela hosts Camanava science and tech fair

By Jun David

THE city government of Valenzuela is hosting this year’s Camanava S&T Fair and Exhibits at the city’s People’s Park until Thursday.

The Department of Science and Technology, being the lead agency, led the event with Science Secretary Fortunato Dela Peña, Undersecretary Brenda NazarethManzano, DoST-Metals Industry

Research and Development Center Executive Director Robert Dizon, and DoST- Food and Nutrition Research Institute Director Dr. Mario Capanzana attending.

Also invited was Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry national president George Barcelon.

Tuesday saw the awarding of Ambassador for Science; the blessing and demonstration of the

automated complementary food production facility at the Valenzuela City Polytechnic College; and the Batang Emergency Response Team Camp.

Wednesday’s events included the Science Quest, a quiz contest for junior high school students, at the Valenzuela City School of Mathematics and Science Collaborative Room.

Thursday sees an eForum on

DOST Technologies and R&D Products of FNRI, ITDC and MIRDC at the Valenzuela City Center for the Performing Arts Auditorium and a forum on Equipment Design and Selection of Materials for Small Scale Food Processing Industries, also at the VCCPA. Bazaar and exhibit booths were installed during the fair and are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Herbert orders QC City Hall LGBT workers to band together

By Rio N. Araja THREE years after the passage of City Ordinance 2357 of 2014, or the Quezon City Gender-Fair Ordinance, Mayor Herbert Bautista on Wednesday ordered city hall employees belonging to the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender sector to organize themselves into a “solid group.”

He issued a memoran-

dum to all department and office heads to submit a list of employees—whether permanent, contractual or job order—who identify themselves as members of the LGBT community.

The deadline for submitting the list is Sept. 15.

“The purpose of the said list is for registration, profiling and inclusion for [sic] the Quezon City Transgender Employees and Gay Association

[QC TEGA],” Bautista said.

The three-year-old measure mandates the city government “to actively work for the elimination of all forms of discrimination that violate the equal protection clause of the Bill of Rights enshrined in the Constitution, existing laws, and The Yogyakarta Principles; and to value the dignity of every person, guarantee full respect for human rights

and give the highest priority to measures that protect and enhance the right of all people; regardless of Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression [SOGIE].”

Earlier, the mayor ordered the city’s 142 barangays to create their own pride councils as part of the city’s comprehensive implementation of anti-discrimination policy and programs based on the SOGIE.

NEW OFFICERS. Andrew Rabulan of Manila Standard (second from left) is sworn in as treasurer of the Camanava Press Corps for 2017 to 2018 along with new officers (from left) Freddie Ng of Radyo Agila, auditor; R.A Marquez, Bagong Toro, secretary; Maeng Santos, Bulgar, adviser; Vick Aquino Tanes, Pilipino Mirror, vice president; Arlie Calalo, Daily Tribune, president; election officer Alfredo Roque, Barangay 80 chairman; Edd Reyes, People’s Journal, C.O.B; and directors Rommel Sales (Hataw), Evelyn Garcia (Pilipino Mirror), Richard Mesa (People’s Balita), James Paragas (Remate/Metro), and Jun Paclibar (Police Files).

Life HEALTH & WELLNESS

Isah V. Red, Editor Bernadette Lunas, Writer isahred@gmail.com THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2017

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MUST-HAVE JEANS FOR EVERY WOMAN

SM Woman launches

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E ALL love a good pair of denim. It’s stylish and versatile, a great match for practically any top. And now, this favorite fashion staple literally becomes more dynamic as SM Woman introduces its newest denim collection designed for comfort, movement, shapewear, and style.

Every woman—no matter what age, Comfort chic body type, and lifestyle—will surely Who says comfort means sacrificfind the perfect fit from the SM Woman ing style? Throw in an oversized shirt denim collection: with the Cool Smart to save yourself from turning into a puddle of sweat Athleisure amid the Philippine heat; the Knit Your pair of SM Woman Hyperform Denim for maximum comfort with denim is so flexible that you can wear it its soft and luxe feel of knit wear; or to the office and to your workout after. the Soft Denim which gives the illuGo smart office casual with it in a white sion of worn-in denim but with a nice tank top and blazer then switch it up in soft feel. just the tank top as you make a quick session at the gym, or for yoga, dancing, Wonder jeans Women of various body types can and running, after work.

The SM Woman Hyperform denim, find the perfect pair of jeans in Wonwhich ranges from skinny, relaxed fit to derfit. This super stretch jeans can fit jeggings, allows the body to move natu- sizes 25-35 as it stretches, thus making rally. Its shapewear also flattens the it comfortable when worn by a sometummy, slims the thighs, and contours one with either a full figure or a slender figure. Its highly elastic fabric content the backside.

Meanwhile, try the double denim en- makes it go back to its original size and semble with the Power Stretch for an shape after it’s worn/washed. ultra stylish daytime to nighttime look.

Even if it’s newly washed or newly pur- Fashion denims Finally, from stepped hem to raw chased, you don’t need to break it in as its 4-way stretch allows jeans to snap edges and fringes, and from wide leg to extra long cuffs, women can back in shape wear after wear.

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Maguindanao textile symbol of proud race

By Ayunan Grande Gunting-Al-Hadj

Sandra Sinsuat Sema, Representative of the First District of Maguindanao and Cotabato City

MINDANAO textile is having its moment in Philippine fashion, and it’s not just worn to express sympathy for Marawi. Filipinos are learning to appreciate the beauty of this ageold tradition of the Muslims.

One of the most visible textiles at the recent State of the Nation Address (SONA) was inaul, the intricately woven textile from Maguindanao.

Representative Vilma Santos-Recto of the sixth district of Batangas came in a long, green, richly patterned dress. Representative Lucy Gomez of the 4th district of Leyte stunned the crowd with her dark blue, striped skirt, and Tourism Secretary Wanda Teo blossomed in a fuchsia, diamond-pattered dress.

“It is said that inaul may be a malong, but not all malongs are inaul. Inaul is synonymous with Maguindanao (the old name of Mindanao). It is a fabric woven by a great race. It is a symbol of royalty of a great nation that once ruled Mindanao,” says Deputy Speaker Bai Sandra Sinsuat A. Sema, Representative of the First District of Maguindanao and Cotabato City.

Royalty wore the inaul as malong, a tubular fabric, or sablay or loose garment, as they travelled through the river ways that connected kingdoms.

“Today, inaul does not only represent the rulers of the sultanate of this magnificent land, but it also amplifies the greatness of the people,” declares Sema.

Valued for its historical significance, the inaul is a product of the mixture of the lineage of Sheriff Muhammad Kabungsuan, the first Sultan of Mindanao, and the natives. Its luxurious texture is a blend of silk and gold threads infused into the pure cotton threads and woven in complicated techniques. The complicated weaving techniques produce one-of-a-kind designs such as rainbows, stripes, and taro.

Sema points out how inaul reflects the character of her region. “A single thread of cotton or silk or even gold is weak when alone but strong when woven together.

Like the threads, Maguindanaons seldom act individually. They believe that in unity there is strength. They work their land together. They catch fish together. They cook their food, build their house, and pray together. They defend their territory – together,” says Sema.

Its signature colors of yellow and orange represent royalty, while red stands for bravery. Green signifies peace.

White, the color of purity, is also worn during mourning. Black means dignity.

“These colors portray the experiences that Maguindanaons have gone through,” says Sema.

The lawmaker adds that the distinctive patterns are the result of careful planning and meticulous craftsmanship. This echoes the character of the Maguindanaons who are known for their precision.

The weaving is time consuming, and work is never rushed. A tipas or slanting design can only be achieved by two or three weavers working together. A fabric is completed in five days.

“Maguindanaons value patience, for they know that in due time they will get what they desire. Determination is their key to success,” says Sema.

“Inaul represents how Maguindanaons preserve their inheritance, strengthen their unity, nourish their culture, defend their land, and share their bounty. It is the embodiment of the past of Maguindanaons, it is the joy of their present, and it is the hope of their future,” says Sema.

Government officials such as Rep. Vilma Santos-Recto, Rep. Lucy Torres-Gomez, and Tourism secretary Wanda Teo, and guests were seen wearing the Maguindanaoan textile inaul at the recent State of the Nation Address.

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CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK CYAN MAGENTA THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2017 YELLOW BLACK

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Luminescent pearls, through time, have represented purity and power even as they provoke. And today’s collection at SM Accessories is not just for ladies who lunch, but for girls with the pearls — creamy pearl drop earrings, statement necklaces, and regal looking rings. Clearly, the classic pearl has come out of its shell.

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EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS: lding,

vard,

This AGREEMENT, made and entered into in Makati City, Philippines, by and among(1) MRS. RONA AMOR ALSUWAIDI, of legal age, Filipino citizen, lawful spouse of the decedent SALEM MOHAMMED ALSUWAIDI, and with residence and postal address at No. Unit 706 One Salcedo Place Condominium, Jaime Velasquez St., Salcedo Village, Makati City; and (2) BADER SALEM ALSUWAIDI and DAREEN SALEM ALSUWAIDI, both minors, Filipino citizens, and with residence and postal address at No. Unit 706 One Salcedo Place Condominium, Jaime Velasquez St., Salcedo Village, Makati City, represented herein by their mother MRS. RONA AMOR ALSUWAIDI, of legal age, Filipino citizen and with residence and postal address at No. Unit 706 One Salcedo Place Condominium, Jaime Velasquez St., Salcedo Village, Makati City;

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WITNESSETH: THATWHEREAS, in August 6, 2015, SALEM MOHAMMED ALSUWAIDI, died intestate in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, leaving the following real properties: a.

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SCHOOL’S back and for every student, it’s not only about acing those subjects but also creating their own identity.

Establish your own style with statement scents from Blackwater, the cologne line of the country’s leading cosmetics brand Ever Bilena: The intense earthy mixture of Blackwater’s Ambitious is perfect for the natural-born leader who aspires to be a CEO or president someday. Pair it with your usual button down polo and black jeans for that “deep and serious” appeal.

WHEREAS, the parties hereto are the sole and only heirs of the decedent entitled to succeed to his estate, they being his lawful spouse and legitimate children, respectively;

WHEREAS, it is to the best interests of the parties hereto to divide, partition and adjudicate among themselves the entire estate particularly the real properties above described extrajudicially in the manner and form hereinafter set forth.

ance

NOW, THEREFORE, for and in consideration of the foregoing premises, and invoking the provisions of Sec. 1, Rule 74 of the Rules of Court, the parties hereto have agreed as they hereby do so agree to divide, partition, and adjudicate the above estate among themselves in pro-indiviso equal shares, subject, however, to contingent liabilities to creditors, heirs or other persons who might have been deprived of lawful participation in the estate of the decedent, for the period of two years from and after the settlement and distribution thereof, in accordance with the provision of Section 4, Rule 74 of the Rules of Court; and That in the remote event that any other property of the decedent should ever found which is not included hereinabove, the parties hereto further agree as they do so agree to settle and distribute the same in like manner and proportion as herein established and disposed.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereunto set their hands at the place first above written, on the_________________________

RONA AMOR ALSUWAIDI Spouse-Heir BADER SALEM ALSUWAIDI Son-Heir Represented by: RONA AMOR ALSUWAIDI

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DAREEN SALEM ALSUWAIDI Daughter-Heir

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Represented by: RONA AMOR ALSUWAIDI SIGNED IN THE PRESENCE OF:

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REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES) CITY OF MAKATI )S.S. BEFORE ME, personally appeared the following: NAME

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RONA AMOR ALSUWAIDI Tin No.

RES. CERT. NO. EC0320054

DATE/PLACE/ISSUED DFA NCR WEST/17 Feb. 14 16 Feb. 19

The Known to me and to me known to be the same person who executed the foregoing instrument consisting of four (4) pages and acknowledged to me that the same is their own free and voluntary act and deed.

WITNESS MY HAND AND SEAL on the date and place first above written.

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SHOPPING CART Savor the flavor of matcha at home MORE and more people are falling for the delicious flavor of matcha. It’s a perfect treat any time of the day. Whether iced or hot, with or without milk, this traditional Japanese tea has become a Filipino favorite.

The flavors of matcha that you know and love c a n now be enjoyed at home with the Starbucks VIA Matcha.

“Inspired by the popular Green Tea Latte, we’re bringing in the Starbucks VIA Matcha so you can enjoy your favorite green tea anytime, anywhere,” said Keith Cole, marketing head for Starbucks Philippines.

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To know more about Blackwater and their products, visit blackwater.com.ph.

Best-selling Salted Egg Yolk Snacks from Singapore THE wildly popular salted egg yolk snack from Singapore is now available in the Philippines, with its main store located at the U.P. Town Center in Quezon City.

With well-documented queues for this brand in the Lion City since its launch two years ago, The Golden Duck Gourmet Salted Egg Yolk Potato Crisps and The Golden Duck Gourmet Salted Egg Yolk Fish Skin Crisps hope to be the go-to snack for foodies in this newfound country—the Pearl of the Orient Seas.

“The brand is fast approaching its million-bag mark and we have seen extremely favorable reviews by Filipinos who seem to connect with the salted egg flavor very readily,” said Jonathan Shen, founder and business development director of SEYC Singapore, makers of The Golden Duck.

“We hope that with this new first step into the Philippines, the brand would grow greater wings and we hope to develop more delightful Asian-inspired

Salted Egg Yolk Potato Crisps

snacks to continue our brand journey with this vibrant city of Asia,” Shen added.

Drumroll Enterprises Inc. is the sole exclusive distributor appointed for the Philippines.

Customers are advised to purchase The Golden Duck only at locations announced by Drumroll Enterprises Inc. to ensure that they are getting the genuine product. Additional locations selling this salted egg snack include The Podium, Alabang Town Center, and all S&R stores nationwide.

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BRIGHTEN the Mid-Autumn Festival with authentic handmade mooncakes from New World Makati Hotel.

Prepared using traditional molds

by Chef Wong Sing To, these treats are a delicious symbol of unity and harmony in gatherings.

Bite into Jasmine’s assortment of mouthwatering mooncakes in four tasty flavors—White Lotus, Red Lotus, Red Bean, and Five Seed—elegantly packaged in stylish boxes, perfect for gift-giving and sharing with friends, family, and colleagues.

According to ancient Chinese history, the moon stands out and

shines brightest as the autumn harvest comes to a close. This signals the start of the Mid-Autumn Festival where feasts are widespread and the men are full of thanksgiving, love and happiness.

Special offers at Jasmine include early bird at 15 percent discount for paid orders, bulk order at 30 percent discount for 30 boxes or 100 mooncakes, and buy-four-get-onefree. Pick-up and sale ends Oct. 15.

Prices start at P488 per mooncake and P1,188 per box of four.

For information and reservations, please call New World Makati Hotel at 811 Celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival with authentic handmade mooncakes 6888 ext. 3338.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2017

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My Korean Jagiya

captivates viewers, netizens

T

HERE’S just no denying that GMA Network’s newest primetime spectacle - My Korean Jagiya— easily charmed netizens and viewers alike with its unique storyline and the scene-stealing performances of the cast members.

STRONG TANDEM. Korean actor Alexander Lee and Kapuso star Heart Evangelista, lead stars of the trending and top-rating rom-com, “My Korean Jagiya”

‘Dolce Amore’ on Jeepney TV

Manila

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Republic of the Philippines Fourth Judicial Region REGIONAL TRIAL COURT BRANCH 63 Calauag Quezon

TODAY

12. In compliance with the Memorandum dated January 21, 2011 issued by the Regional Executive Director Nilo B. Tamoria, Chief Land Management Service (LMS) Region IV-A Felix D. Camo conducted an investigation. Camo prepared an investigation report through a Memorandum dated March 8, 2011 (Annex “M”), Where he stated the following findings:

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES, Represented by the REGIONAL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES REGION IV-A, Plaintiff,

CIVIL CASE NO. C-1522

-versus-

3. However, scrutiny of the Subdivision Plan of Lot 647 revealed \vith a notation on the lower left portion that the subdivision was conducted pursuant to the order of the Court dated September 26, 1960. This Office has no record of whatsoever relative to that court order.

4. Per verification and projection of the maps presented, Lot 647 is identical to Block F of LC-581-C with a total area of 1,424,563 sq. m. as per Boundary and Index Map of Guinayangan Cadastre dated September 28, 1923 and is classified Timberland.

5. However, the then Ministry of Natural Resources-Bureau of Forest Development (MNRBFD) has set aside some portion of Lot 647 as A & D for Fishpond Development and for Cropland by virtue of Forestry Administrative Order No. 7-1489 dated August 28, 1980. This is further clarified by a certification issued by Antonio D. Diwa, CENRO Officer of Calauag, Quezon, on August 29, 2003 that same is within a A & D for Fishpond Development purposes per BFD Swamp Zonification Map No. 37.

6. The identified A & D for Fishpond purposes as per approval Fis 4A-000056-D and Fis 4A-00057-D both approved dated October 1, 1981 are currently being leased, developed and managed by certain Herminigildo A. Tolentino Family.

TO: MARGARITA LOPEZ, PROCESO LAUREL, GREGORIO LAUREL JR. NEE, CRUZ DE GOREZTIZA, GALNORIA IGLESIA, PACIFICO S. LAUREL, ILLUMINADA LAUREL ASCALON,CONSUELO T. LAUREL, PACITA B. LAUREL, ARCHIMEDES LAUREL, TEODORO LAUREL, E RNlESTINA CAYCO, CESAR LIMJOCO, CLARO LAUREL, JOSE VICENTE LAUREL, CARMENCITA AMBRAY, TERESITA LAUREL

ALL OF BARANGAY LAUREL, TAGKAWAYAN, QUEZON RURAL BANK OF ALAMINOS, INC. ALAMINOS, LAGUNA

Relive the love story of Serena and Tenten played by Liza Soberano and Enrique Gil on Jeepney TV

REMINISCE the sweetness of young love in the ABS-CBN primetime hit series Dolce Amore, starring Liza Soberano and Enrique Gil, on Jeepney TV this month.

LizQuen’s second primetime series after Forevermore is one of the most watched Kapamilya programs in 2016, ending on a high note with a national TV rating of 37.7 percent (Kantar Media).

It is a love story between a wealthy young lady from Italy, Serena (Liza), and hardworking Tenten (Enrique) from Tondo who cross paths when the former runs away to the Philippines to escape an arranged marriage. The two wanderers get even closer through an infallible link, amidst money issues and family problems, until they discover their roots and find out their real connection.

Meanwhile, the Korean romantic comedy series Twenty Again will be seen for the first time on Philippine television when it premieres on Jeepney TV this month.

No-ra, who is in her late 30’s, decides to go back to college after being misdiagnosed with

cancer and given a six-month prognosis. She hopes to live the life she missed when she got pregnant at an early age, but things get messy when her son becomes her classmate, her intellectual snob of a husband accepts a job at the same university, and her professor turns out to be her former admirer in high school.

Also, witness the lives tangled in love in Tubig at Langis this month. Follow the journey of Irene (Cristine Reyes), a resilient young woman who rekindles her relationship with her high school sweetheart Natoy (Zanjoe Marudo) who accepts her despite of her son from another man and the disapproval of his family. However, after a ploy of his mother to think Irene is cheating on him, Natoy succumbs to barrio lass Clara, whom he met during one of his business trips.

Jeepney TV is available on SkyCable channel 9, Destiny Cable Analog 41 and Digital 9.

For updates, like the Jeepney TV page on Facebook (www. facebook.com/JeepneyTV) or visit www.jeepneytv.ph.

1. The TCT-43927 (Lot 647-E) being a portion of Lot 647 of Cadastral Survey of Guinayangan, Quezon per LRC Cad Rec. No. 12 G.I.R.O” Cad Rec. No. 557 came from a mother title with OCT No. 0-728 (judicially issued with Decree No. 5192 May Ll, 1951) covering an area of 1,424,563 sq. m. which is registered in the names of Gregorio Laurel and Margarita Lopez of San Pablo City, Laguna and transcribed in the Registration Book for the Province of Quezon on May 4, 1951, and is located at Brgy. Balugo, Awasan and Candalaplap, Municipality of Tagkawayan (Guinayangan), Province of Quezon.

2. The TCT-43927 (identified as Lot 647-E of the approved subdivision plan Csd-5627-D dated January 25, 1961 by the then Director Bureau of Lands) was issued on January 9, 1962 is located at Brgy. Balugo, Tagkawayan, Quezon (formerly Guinayangan, Quezon) with a land area of 1,056,275 sq. m. and is registered at the names of Heirs Gregorio S. Laurel et al.

GREGORIO LAUREL, MARGARITA LOPEZ, PROCESO LAUREL, ESTER CALAYAG, GREGORIO LAUREL JR. NEE, CRUZ DE GOREZTIZA, MAXIMO LAUREL NEE, GALNORIA IGLESIA, PACIFICO S. LAUREL, JULIANA PEREZ, ILLUMINADA LAUREL ASCALON, CONSUELO T. LAUREL, BIENVENIDO LAUREL, PACITA B. LAUREL, ARCHIMEDES LAUREL, MARITA B. LAUREL, TEODORO LAUREL, ERNlESTINA CAYCO, FE LAUREL-LIMJOCO, CESAR LIMJOCO, CLARO LAUREL, SORAHA YDA LAUREL, JOSE VICENTE LAUREL, CARMENCITA AMBRAY, EDGARDO UMALI, TERESITA LAUREL, RURAL BANK OF ALAMINOS INC., ALL OTHER SUBSEQUENT TRANSFEREES AND HOLDERS OF TRANSFER CERTIFICATES OF TITLE, AND THE REGISTER OF DEEDS OF THE PROVINCE OF QUEZON, Defendants. x---------------------------------------x GREGORIO LAUREL, ESTER CALAYAG, MAXIMO LAUREL NEE, JULIANA PEREZ, BIENVENIDO LAUREL, MARITA B. LAUREL, FE LAUREL-LIMJOCO, SORAHA YDA LAUREL, EDGARDO UMALI,

The first ever Filipino-Korean romantic-comedy series, headlined by Philippine TV’s Sweetheart Heart EvangelistaEscudero and introducing the newest Kapuso heartthrob Alexander Lee, made waves on social media as Kapuso viewers commended the artists’ portrayal of their characters and the heart-warming plot of the series.

Netizens flooded the micro blogging site with positive comments and feedback about the show and the cast members.

Mark Reyes directs My Korean Jagiya that airs weeknights after Mulawin vs Ravena on GMA7.

REGISTER OF DEEDS OF QUEZON PROVINCIAL CAPITOL, LUCENA CITY

GREETINGS: You are hereby required within fifteen (15) days after the service of this Summons upon you, to file this Court and serve on the plaintiff your answer to the complaint, copy of which is attached, together with the annexes. You are reminded of the provisions in the BP-OCA Memorandum on Policy Guidelines dated March 12, 2002 to observe restraint in filing a motion to dismiss and instead allege the grounds thereof as defenses in the Answer. If you fail to answer within the time fixed, the plaintiff will take judgment by default and may be granted the relief applied for in the complaint.

WITNESS my hand under the seal of the Court, this 19th day of February, 2016.

7. The Office has no record on file as to the existence of any approved plan from the Bureau of Lands and Land Registration Authority and Verification of the status of the Land pertaining to the issuance of OCT 0-728; and 8. However, the whole case area which has been projected on the reference map available in this Office falls under the territorial jurisdiction of Barangay Laurel, Tagkawayan, Quezon as per Tagkawayan Cadastre Cad. 1120-D Case No.9 and approved December 21, 1993.1 Copies of the Land Classification Map of Guinayangan Cadastre dated September 28, 1923, the Forestry Administrative Order No. 4-1489 dated August 28, 1980, the CENRO Certification dated August 29, 2003, the BFD Zonification Map No. 37, the Fis4A-000056-D, and the Fis4A000057-D, are attached as Annexes “N,” “0/’ “P,” “Q,” “R,” and “S,’ respectively.

13. Atty. Tomas B. Ballesteros, the OIC-Chief of the Legal Division of DENR Region IV-A, arrived at a sin1ilar finding when he conducted the verification and ocular inspection of the area. Thus, Atty.

Ballesteros recomended the reversion of the land covered by, as weIl as the cancellation of, OCT No. 0-728 in a Memorandum dated August 25, 2011 (Annex “T”).

14 In a Supplemental Report of DPLI Henry Ellaga of CENRO Region IV-A dated April 26, 2012, he confirmed that based on the Land Classification Map No. 581-C, Block F, Project No. 20-A containing an area of 142.4563 is identical to Lot 647, Cad-182 Guinayangan, Cadastre, which was declared as timberland on December 22, 1925. Thus, he recommended the cancellation of OCT No. 0-728 and its derivative titles (Annex “U”).

15. Since Lot No. 647 is a timberland, OCT No. 0-728 and all its derivative titles are void. This warrants their cancellation. It is a well-settled rule that a certificate of title is void when it covers property of public domain classified as forest, timber, and mineral lands. Any title issued on non-disposable lots, even in the hands of alleged innocent purchasers for value, shall be cancelled.2 PRAYER

RUEL ROLANDO B. ARANDELA OIC/Acting Clerk of Court

The plaintiff consequently prays that this Honorable Court render judgment: 1. declaring Original Certificate of Title No. 0-728 issued in the name of spouses Gregorio Laurel and Margarita Lopez as void; 2. declaring the following Transfer Certificates of Title derived from the aforementioned mother title as void: a. TCT No. T-60226 issued in the name of defendants Proceso Laurel and Ester Calayag;

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES FOURTH JUDICIAL REGION REGIONAL TRIAL COURT BRANCH 63 CALAUAG QUEZON REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES, Represented by the REGIONAL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES REGION IV-A, Plaintiff,

b. TCT No. T -55956 issued in the name of defendants Gregorio Laurel Jr. Nee and Cruz de Goreztiza,; c. TCT No. T-5S962 issued in the name of defendants Maximo Laurel Nee and Galnoria Iglesia; d. TCT No. T -43927 issued in the name of defendants Pacifico S. Laurel, Juliana Perez, Iluminada Laurel Ascalon, Consuelo T. Laurel, Bienvenido Laurel, Pacita Lauret Archin1edes Laurel, Marita Laurel, Teodoro Laurel, Ernesto Cayco, Fe Laurel-LiInjoco, Cesar Lilnjoco, Claro Laurel, and Sorahayda Laurel; CIVIL CASE NO. C-1522 For: Reversion and Cancellation of OCT No. 0728 and its derivative titles

GREGORIO LAUREL, MARGARITA LOPEZ, PROCESO LAUREL, ESTER CALAYAG, GREGORIO LAUREL JR. NEE, CRUZ DE GOREZTIZA, MAXIMO LAUREL NEE, GALNORIA IGLESIA, PACIFICO S. LAUREL, JULIANA PEREZ, ILLUMINADA LAUREL ASCALON, CONSUELO T. LAUREL, BIENVENIDO LAUREL, PACITA B. LAUREL, ARCHIMEDES LAUREL, MARITA B. LAUREL, TEODORO LAUREL, ERNlESTINA CAYCO, FE LAURELLIMJOCO, CESAR LIMJOCO, CLARO LAUREL, SORAHA YDA LAUREL, JOSE VICENTE LAUREL, CARMENCITA AMBRAY, EDGARDO UMALI, TERESITA LAUREL, RURAL BANK OF ALAMINOS INC., ALL OTHER SUBSEQUENT TRANSFEREES AND HOLDERS OF TRANSFER CERTIFICATES OF TITLE, AND THE REGISTER OF DEEDS OF THE PROVINCE OF QUEZON, Defendants. x-----------------------------------------------------x

e. TCT T-63231 issued in the name of Sps. Jose Vicente Laurel and Carmencita f. TCT T-208212 issued in the name of defendant Rural Bank of Alaminos, Inc; and g. TCT-T-150272 issued in the name of defendants Edgardo Umali and Teresita Laurel; 3. ordering all the defendants, their agents, privies and successors-in-interest to surrender to the Register of Deeds of Quezon the aforesaid titles and all derivative titles, if any; 4. ordering the Register of Deeds to cancel OCT No. 0-728 and all its derivative titles; and 5 . ordering the reversion of Lot No. 647 to the mass of the public domain.

The plaintiff further prays for such further or other relief as may be deemed just and equitable.

Makati City, for Calauag, Quezon, April 28,2015

FLORIN T. HILBAY Acting Solicitor General Roll No. 44957 IBP Lifetime Roll No. 08505 MCLE Exemption No. IV-001068, 5/14/13

RENAN E. RAMOS Assistant Solicitor General Roll No. 33792 IBP LR No. 04290, 1-09-03 MCLE Exemption No. IV-0000S2 - 05-16-12

COMPLAINT THE PLAINTIFF REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES, represented by the Regional Executive Director of the DENR Region IV -A, by counsel respectfully states: 1. The plaintiff is a sovereign political entity to which all lands of the public domain belong. It is represented by the Regional Executive Director of DENR Region IV-A, who is in charge of the administration, management, and disposition of public lands within the region. The plaintiff may be served with orders, writs, and other processes of this Honorable Court through its statutory counsel, the Office of the Solicitor General, (OSG) at 134 Amorsolo Street, Legaspi Village, Makati City.

LENEY LAYUG DELFIN State Solicitor I Roll No. 53892 IBP No. 09098-4/21/10 MCLE Compliance No. IV-0009103 OFFICE OF THE SOLICITOR GENERAL 134 Amorsolo St., Legaspi Village Makati City Tel. No. 817-9848

2. Defendants Gregorio Laurel, Margarita Lopez, Proceso Laurel, Ester Calayag, Gregorio Jr. Nee, Cruz de Goreztiza, Maximo Laurel Nee, Galnoria Iglesia, Pacifico S. Laurel, Juliana Perez, Iluminada Laurel Ascalon, Consuelo T. Laurel, Bienvenido Laurel, Pacita B. Laurel Archimedes Laurel, Marita B. Laurel, Teodoro Laurel, Ernestina Cayco, Fe Laurel-Limjoco, Cesar Limjoco, Claro Laurel, Sorahayda Laurel, Jose Vicente Laurel, Carmencita Ambray, Edgardo Umali, and Teresita Laurel are all of legal age, Filipinos and residents of Brgy. Laurel, Tagkawayan, Quezon, where they may be served with summonses, orders, writs, and other processes of this Honorable Court.

3. Defendant Rural Bank of Alaminos Inc., is a banking corporation duly organized and existing under the laws of the Republic of the Philippines, with office address at Barangay Alaminos, Laguna, where it may be served “with summons, orders, writs, and other processes of this Honorable Court.

4. Defendant Register of Deeds of Quezon is impleaded as a nominal party, being charged with the duty of issuing the corresponding certificates of title over lands in the province of Quezon. He may be served with summons, orders, writs, and other court processes at the Registry of Deeds, Provincial Capitot Lucena, Quezon.

5. On May 4, 1951, Decree No. 5192 was issued by the Court of First Instance in Quezon awarding Lot No. 647 to spouses Gregorio Laurel and Margarita Lopez in Cadastral Case No. 12. Lot No. 647 which measures 1,424:,563 square meters is located in Guinayangan, Quezon (Annex “ A”).

6. Pursuant thereto, the defendant Register of Deeds in the Province of Quezon issued Original Certificate of Title (OCT) No. 0-728 in the name of spouses Gregorio Laurel and Margarita Lopez covering Lot No. 647 (Annex “B”).

7. On January 25, 1961, Lot No. 647 was subdivided into five lots, namely: Lot 647-A, Lot 647-13, Lot 647-C, Lot 647-0 and Lot 647-E, as evidenced by Subdivision Plan No. Csd.-5627-D (Annex “C”).

8. OCT No. 0-728 was subsequently cancelled by the following Transfer Certificates of Title, (TCTs) T-60226 (Annex “D”) in the names of defendants Proceso Laurel and Ester Calayag which covers Lots 647-A and 647-13; T- 55956 (Annex “E”) in the names of defendants Gregorio Laurel Jr. Nee and Cruz de Goreztiza which covers Lot 647-C; T-55962 (Annex “M”) in the names of defendants Maximo Laurel and Galnoria Iglesia ‘which covers Lot 647-D; and T-43927 (Annex “G”) in the names of defendants Pacifico S. Laurel Juliana Perez, Iluminada Laurel Ascalon, Consuelo I. Laurel, Bienvenido Laurel, Pacita Laurel, Archinledes Laurel, Marita Laurel, Teodoro Laurel, Ernistina Cayco, Fe Laurel-Limjoco, Cesar Limjoco, Claro Laurel and Sorahayda Laurel which covers Lot 647-E. 9. Later, TCT T-55956 was cancelled by TCT No. T-632.31 (Annex “H”) which was issued to defendants spouses Jose Vicente Laurel and Carmencita Ambray. TCT No. T -63231 was in turn cancelled by ICT No. T-208212 (Annex “l”) which was issued to defendant Rural Bank of Alaminos, Inc. Likewise, TCT No T-55962 was subsequently cancelled by TCT No. T -150272 (Annex “J”) which was issued to defendants Edgardo Umali and Teresita Laurel.

10. In a letter dated December 4, 2010 (Annex “K”), the Barangay Captain of Candalapdap, Tagkawayan, Quezon, Victor S. Serdeña, requested the OSG, the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) in Calauag, Quezon, and Municipal Mayor Jose Jonas Frondoso to cancel ICT No. 43927 on the ground that the property covered by the titles 111entionecl above is a timberland.

11. Acting on the letter, the OSG requested the DENR Region IV-A to conduct an investigation thereon (Annex “L”).

VERIFICATION AND CERTIFICATION OF NON-FORUM SHOPPING I REYNULFO A. JUAN, the Regional Executive Director of the DENR Region IV-A, of legal age, after having been sworn to in accordance with law, hereby depose and say: 1 That I have caused the preparation of the foregoing complaint; 2 That I have read and understood the contents thereat and the allegations contained therein are true and correct of my own personal knowledge or based on authentic records; 3 That I have not commenced any other action or proceeding involving the same issues and parties in the Supreme Court, or different divisions thereof of the Court of Appeals, or any other tribunal or agency; 4 That no such action or proceeding is pending in the Supreme Court, or different divisions thereof or the court of Appeals, or any other tribunal or agency; 5. That I hereby undertake to notify the Honorable Court within five (5) days from notice should I learn that a similar action or proceedings has been filed or pending before the Honorable court or different divisions thereof or any other tribunal or agency.

REYNULFO A. JUAN Affiant SUBSCRIBED AND SWORN before me this_____day of_____2015, in _________,affiant exhibited to me his BIR ID 135-425-300, issued at _____________and set to expire on _______________.

Doc. No. 45 Page No. 10 Book No. 137 Series of 2015.

Complaint Republic v. Gregorio Laurel, et al., Civil Case No. _ _ ___ “ __ _ _ x---- --------------------- ----------------x 1 Emphasis supplied 2 Land Bank of the Philippines v. Republic of the Philippines, G.R. No, 150824, February 4, 2008; Republic v. Reyes, G.R. Nos. L-30263-5, October 30, 1987; Republic v. Court of Appeals, G.R. No. L-40402, March 16, 1987, (MS-SEPT. 7, 2017)

Isah V. Red, Editor Nickie Wang, Writer isahred@gmail.com THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2017

T

RAFFIC congestion wastes your precious time. And it may also cost you your love life.

This is the bittersweet theme of revitalized Filipino boy band 1:43’s comeback single titled “Trapik Tralala,” which speaks of a young man’s growing exasperation as he finds himself stuck in traffic on his way to see the girl of his dreams.

Written by Jim Paredes and arranged by Sonic State Audio Studio’s Jonathan Ong, “Trapik Tralala” was originally a part of the APO’s 1996 album Dating Alternatib that was not released as a single “Pagod na pagod, inis na inis, sa haba ng trapik, sa tulo ng pawis / banas na banas mukhang hindi aabot / Inip na inip sa kahihintay, na-lowbat ang cellphone wala pang powerbank / Walang magawa kundi maghintay lamang,” goes the song’s intro.

The guy fails to make it to his date. But, what the heck!

He opts to look at the brighter side of things—he penned a song while stuck in traffic.

“Sa tagal ng trapik nalanta ang sabik, ang balak na pag-ibig ay naunsyami / nasayang na ang gas, pagkakatao’y nawaldas / Hindi na umabot, hindi na nakita, ang balak na pag-ibig ay na-tralala / Di bale, okay lang, nakagawa naman ng kanta,” the ditty goes.

Although it has yet to be released on various digital music platforms, “Trapik Tralala” is already enjoying heavy airplay on FM radio stations nationwide. On Sept. 1 it became available on Spotify, iTunes, Amazon Music, and Deezer in over 240 countries worldwide.

Chris Cahilig, 1:43 founder and manager, is confident that “Trapik Tralala” will resonate with millennials, young office workers, and the new generation of music lovers whose professional and romantic

Love in the time of traffic gridlock

1:43 REDUX. New members of the revitalized boy group 1:43 (from left) Art Artienda, Jason Allen Estroso, Wayne Avellano, and Ced Miranda

Canadians Kapuso exited to watch Glaiza de Castro THE excitement among Filipinos abroad in Canada were at fever pitch as GMA Pinoy TV and Glaiza de Castro made summer even hotter with backto-back performances at events held in Toronto and Vancouver showcasing the Kapuso actress’ bold vocals and new music.

In Vancouver, fans were treated to Glaiza’s freshest hits at “Pinoy Fiesta: Unang Hirit sa Tag-Init” held at Memorial South Park on Aug.13.

It was a momentous affair for Glaiza, who, for the first time, did a live rendition of songs from her new album Magandang Simulain. At the close of the show, a select number of guests were fortunate enough to receive signed copies of Glaiza’s most recent musical masterpiece.

They even had a chance to take photos with her.

Prior to the event, Glaiza’s supporters all over the world were able to chat with her in real-time via GMA Pinoy TV’s Facebook page. The live chat, which created buzz online, served as a platform for Glaiza to answer questions about her upcoming event and dedicate a special song to viewers. Asked what else Glaiza intends to do while in Canada, the Encantadia star expressed her desire to tour notable landmarks in the country after her commitments.

On Aug. 19, Glaiza’s wish was granted when a string of activities allowed her to see a popular destination in Toronto.

She was able to climb the CN Tower, a communications and observation tower that is the third tallest of its kind in the world. While there, she spent time with Filipino press based in

Glaiza de Castro bonds with Kapuso fans following her series of shows in Toronto and Vancouver

Canada at 360 The Restaurant, a revolving food establishment at the top of the tower. A meet-andgreet with more of her dedicated fans followed suit at Filipino restaurant Kalesa. She capped off her day with a fun-filled fan gathering made possible

Kapuso star Glaiza de Castro gladly takes a selfie with Kapuso Abroad at "Pinoy Fiesta - Unang Hirit sa Tag-Init"

by iRemit, the largest Filipinoowned non-bank remittance service provider.

On Aug. 20, Glaiza performed during ANCOP Walk, in support of the event’s cause of raising funds for child education, community development, and humanitarian relief for third world countries. Later that day, she guest-starred for the “Women in Music” event. There, she donned yet again her singer hat and transformed Prestige by Night into an intimate paradise with a tender performance of her hits from her albums Synthesis and Magandang Simulain.

Of her Canadian sojourn, Glaiza says, “’Yung experience ko rito, parang nasa Pilipinas pa rin ako. ‘Yung warmth nang pagwelcome nila sa akin, parang hindi ako nalalayo sa Pilipinas.”

Indeed, Glaiza’s presence resonated with her Kapuso Abroad in Canada, which she greatly felt during her brief but memorable stay in the country.

“Ang sarap ng pakiramdam na makita yung smiles nila, na kumakanta sila kasama ko, at na sumasayaw sila. Kahit papaano nakapagbigay ako ng saya sa kanila. Thank you to GMA Pinoy TV for bringing Filipinos abroad closer to home.”

lives are often jeopardized by the metro’s worsening traffic problem.

“Trapik Tralala is a song so close to home that nearly everyone can relate to it.

After all, it shows that love can be tricky—when traffic gets in the way. The band had a great time recording it, and the fact that it is an original APO composition shows how 1:43 is totally committed to promote OPM,” Cahilig relates.

He further points out that despite the horror stories involving traffic, “Trapik Tralala shows that there are ways to turn things around and making music is one of them.”

The revitalized 1:43 features four talented and charismatic young men in the persons of Art Artienda, Ced Miranda, Jason Allen Estroso, and Wayne Avellano. The band bagged the 2013 Star Awards for Music Song of the Year for the monster hit “Sa Isang Sulyap Mo” and scored the “Most Promising Performing and Recording Group” recognition in the Guillermo Mendoza Memorial Scholarship Foundation’s 45th BoxOffice Entertainment Awards.

Aside from the monster hit “Sa Isang Sulyap Mo,” 1:43 also popularized the songs “Hayop Sa Ganda,” “Pag-Ibig na Kaya,” and “Ang Saya-Saya,” which became the theme song of the GMA7 sitcom Ismol Family.

Sony’s AXN to produce new original series A NEW original series for AXN featuring Australia’s top magician, illusionist and escapologist, Cosentino is coming your way. The four-part series, entitled The Elements, will captivate audiences with Cosentino’s mesmerizing street magic, largescale illusions and death defying escapes all themed around Earth, Wind, Fire and Water. Sony Pictures Television Networks, Asia announced the development recently.

The filming kicks off in Singapore before Cosentino takes his magic on tour, filming against iconic backdrops in Taipei, Manila and Kuala Lumpur.

Various popular Asian artists, including singers, actors and models will join Cosentino as he performs his spell-binding stunts, creating a raft of “how did he do that?” moments.

Cosentino has quickly become a global star within the magic industry.

He is a multiple winner of the prestigious Merlin Award (magic’s version of the Academy Awards) including Master illusionist Cosentino aims to captivate TV acknowledgement as the audience in his latest show, "The Elements" International Magician of the Year and the International Escape Artist of the Year.

Virginia Lim, senior vice president and head of Content, Production and Marketing, said, “The Elements supports our vision to create a pipeline of original, locally relevant series that engages our viewers both on screen and via social platforms. As a world-renowned illusionist, Cosentino made his AXN debut as a guest star during the Asia’s Got Talent finale episode in 2015.

We’re thrilled to partner with Cosentino again to usher in his magic revolution in Asia.”

Commenting on The Elements, Cosentino said, “I am thrilled to be embarking on this new partnership with AXN, the undisputed leader of English language broadcasting across Asia. I am very proud of what we have created with The Elements series. The concept of the shows and the magic and escapology contained within them is unlike anything else that has been seen before”.

The Elements will premiere in early 2018 first and exclusively on AXN. Follow the show on @AXNAsia / #AXNAsia / AXNAsia.com