Manila Standard - 2017 October 8 - Sunday

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VOL. XXXI • NO. 236 • 3 SECTIONS 16 PAGES • P18 • SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2017 • www.manilastandard.net • editorial@manilastandard.net

'DRUG WAR CASUALTIES ALL DEALERS'

By Sara Susanne Fabunan and John Paolo Bencito

BREAKING BREAD. Visiting President Rodrigo Duterte breaks bread with Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah and his wife Pengian Anak Saleha at the banquet during the golden jubilee celebration of the Sultan’s accession to the throne Friday. Duterte returned Saturday from what Malacañang described as a 'productive' visit to Brunei that underscored the two countries’ friendship. Malacañang Photo

PINOY, TWO OTHERS IN NY TERROR RAPS N EW YORK—Three people, including Filipino jihadist Russel Salic, have been charged with involvement in a planned attack in New York City in 2016 during the Muslim holy fasting month of Ramadan, authorities here said.

The other two are Abdulrahman El Bahnasawy, a 19-year-old Canadian citizen; and Talha Haroon, a 19-year-old US citizen residing in Pakistan.

The 2015 attack on the Bataclan concert hall in Paris and another on the metro in Belgium the following year served as inspiration for the planned killings in New York.

Those attacks were both claimed

by IS, a brutal militant group that seized swathes of territory in Iraq and Syria and has inspired a series of deadly attacks abroad.

In Manila, the United States embassy in Manila confirmed that Salic was arrested in April 2017 in the Philippines after he and two other nationalities allegedly plotted attacks on New York City during the summer of 2016 in support of the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham.

“All three men have been arrested, and one has pleaded guilty,” the United States Department of Justice said on Saturday, which was shared by the US embassy in Manila.

On May 21, 2016, El Bahnasawy was arrested in New Jersey, after

traveling to the United States from Canada in preparation for carrying out the NYC attacks.

Bahnasawy, a 19-year-old Canadian who purchased bomb-making materials and was arrested after traveling to the US, has pleaded guilty to “terrorism offenses,” the statement said.

Haroon, a 19-year-old American citizen living in Pakistan, allegedly planned to take part in the attacks, while Salic of the Philippines, 37, allegedly provided funds for the operation.

Haroon was arrested in Pakistan in or about September 2016, and Salic was arrested in the Philippines in or about April 2017.

“Bahnasawy, who has been in custody since he was arrested by the FBI in May 2016, pleaded guilty to terrorism offenses and is awaiting sentencing,” it added.

“Haroon and Salic have been

arrested in foreign countries by foreign authorities in connection with these charges and it is the hope and expectation of this Office and US law enforcement that they will be extradited to the United States to face justice in a United States court,” it added.

Bahnasawy pleaded guilty on Oct. 13, 2016 to a seven-count Superseding Information before US District Judge Richard Berman.

The attacks were thwarted with the help of an undercover FBI agent posing as an IS supporter who communicated with the three plotters.

Haroon and Salic have been arrested abroad, and their extradition to the US is pending.

“Bahnasawy and Haroon identified multiple locations and events in and around New York City as targets of the planned attacks, Turn to A2

UN DELETES MILF FROM GROUPS USING WARRIOR-KIDS THE removal of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front from a UN list of armed groups recruiting and using children marks a stride and a victory toward realizing children’s rights in the Philippines.

The UN Secretary-General’s report on children and armed conflict is presented annually to the UN Security Council and contains information on the six grave violations against children and on the situation of children affected by armed conflict during the previous year.

The report highlights trends and patterns of grave violations, progress made to protect children and further recommendations.

The recently released 2016 report revealed that UN engagement has led to the delisting of two parties in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and in the Philippines, according to a statement from the UN office in Manila.

UN children’s agency Unicef , which facilitated the work with the UN-MILF Action Plan to end recruit-

ment and use of children, congratulates the MILF and highlights the work that still needs to be done to ensure that children affected by armed conflict enjoy their full rights, the statement said.

The UN-MILF Action Plan was completed at the beginning of 2017 upon the fulfillment of a six point roadmap, resulting in the disengagement of 1,869 children from the ranks of the MILF. The disengagement of children will facilitate their access to appropriate support and services from government and development partners to enjoy all their rights to health, education and protection.

Unicef Philippines Representative Lotta Sylwander said, “The MILF’s commitment to protect and promote the rights of children in their communities continues today, even as they are delisted from the UN report.

“Fostering lasting peace for children involves continued vigilance by all concerned, including the Turn to A2

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GOOD TUNE. Good samaritans launch a concert for a cause and gift giving for wounded government soldiers and victims in the Mindanao war against terrorists at the V. Luna Hospital theater in Quezon City, with the wounded soldiers executing a snappy salute as the National Anthem was sung. Manny Palmero

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ALL 3,800 people killed so far in police operations under the Duterte administration’s drug war are drug dealers, Foreign Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano has said.

Cayetano, in an interview with Al Jazeera English’s “UpFront” that aired Friday, denied claims some of the drug war’s killings had been staged by police officers.

When asked by “UpFront” host Mehdi Hasan if all suspects in the police anti-drug operations were criminal drug dealers, despite being not tried in court, Cayetano said: “Yes”.

He defended police lethal use of force, saying “If someone pulls a gun on the police, they have to bring them to court first before they fire back? The police are doing what they can.”

He also denied allegations that killings in the country’s ongoing drug war are not being investigated.

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DRUG LORDS' HOLD ON LOCAL POLS FOR REAL

By John Paolo Bencito THE surrender of an alleged narco-poliitician in Sarangani province proved President Rodrigo Duterte’s claims that illegal drugs were well-entrenched in local politics, Malacañang said Saturday.

Welcoming the surrender of Maasim, Sarangani Mayor Aniceto Lopez, Jr. to Senator Emmanuel Pacquiao, who used to be the congressional representative of Sarangani, Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said this underscored how bad the drug trade in the country was.

“The raid by PDEA operatives of the rest house of the Maasim mayor, where P5 million worth of suspected shabu and a mini-shabu laboratory were seized, proves the Turn to A2

MAUTE HOLDS 60 HOSTAGES, SAYS MILITARY MORE hostages than earlier thought remain in the hands of terrorists in Marawi City, the military said Saturday, citing information from rescued captives.

Col. Romeo Brawner, deputy commander of Joint Task Group Ranao, told a weekend news conference 17 hostages rescued from the Islamic State-linked Maute group earlier this week disclosed the information.

“There are estimated to be between 40 and 60 hostages. The Maute is [estimated to number around] 38 to 48,” said Brawner.

The military had earlier estimated that 20 hostages were in the hands of terrorists.

“We believe we were not able to see everybody. There were many others hiding in basements,” Brawner said.

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SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2017 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

PINOY,...

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including the New York City subway system, Times Square and certain concert venues,” the statement said.

Bahnasawy sent the undercover FBI agent an image of Times Square, saying “we seriously need a car bomb” to attack it and that he wanted to “shoot up concerts cuz they kill a lot of people.”

Haroon, meanwhile, told the agent that the subway would make a “perfect” target, and that suicide vests could be detonated after the attackers expended their ammunition.

Salic also began communicating with the FBI agent, eventually sending “approximately $423” to fund the attacks and promising to send more, according to prosecutors.

New York was the target of the Sept.

11, 2001 attacks that killed nearly 3,000 people and led the US to launch an open-ended “war on terror” that included invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq and military operations in a number of other countries.

These operations led, directly and indirectly, to tens of thousands of deaths, and cost the US hundreds of billions of dollars.

The most recent attack in New York occurred in September 2016, when a pressure cooker bomb exploded in the Chelsea neighborhood, wounding 29 people. AFP, Sara Susanne Fabunan

'DRUG WAR...

From A1 “That’s absolutely not true,” Cayetano said. “There are a couple of policemen who were caught murdering and they are being charged with murder.”

During the interview, Hasan asked Cayetano: “How do we know that [the 3,800 people were drug dealers]? You didn’t try them. You didn’t prosecute them. You didn’t charge them. You shot them on site! That’s not a democratic way of solving crime, is it? “ But Cayetano did not answer his question directly and insisted that all 3,800 Filipinos who were killed were drug dealers.

“You’re absolutely saying it as if you’re not on the ground. Come and look. If I pull a gun on you, here, right now, and you shoot me, it’s your fault?

Or my fault?,” he asked.

Hasan repeated the question if all those killed were criminal drug dealers.

“Yes,” Cayetano, a former Senator and an appointed political foreign chief, said.

Meanwhile, Malacanang on Saturday claimed the recent killings under the bloody war on drugs were “being addressed,” even as it backed an earlier statement by the Philippine National Police that no extrajudicial killing had been recorded under President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration.

In a statement, Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella claimed the government did not sanction killings under the drug war, but drug suspects killed in police operations had put up violent resistance.

“We wish to emphasize that one death is one too many,” Abella said in a statement.

“Regardless of this definition, these deaths are being addressed to ensure the accountability of perpetrators, even as it calls upon witnesses and individuals who can provide valuable evidence that will lead to [the] speedy resolution of cases,” he added.

Abella made these pronouncements after the PNP claimed there was “officially no case” of extrajudicial killing under the 15-month-old administration of Duterte.

PNP spokesperson Chief Supt.

Dionardo Carlos earlier made an announcement there had been only one case of extrajudicial killing since Duterte took his oath of office on June 30, 2016.

“The PNP protects every individual’s right to life. To allay or remove their fear of becoming victims of EJK, let it be known that under the present administration, there is only one case of extrajudicial killing or EJK for the period July 1, 2016, to Sept. 30, 2017,” Carlos said.

Latest police estimates placed the number of drug suspects slain in legitimate police operations at 3,800.

Human rights groups, however, place the death toll at 13,000, a figure that the administration has described as overblown.

Administrative Order No. 35, issued under the Aquino administration define extrajudicial killings as killings where “the victim was a member of, or affiliated with an organization, to include political, environmental, agrarian, labor, or similar causes; or an advocate of above-named causes; or a media practitioner or person(s) apparently mistaken or identified to be so.”

BATO ASKS BISHOPS: NO 'FISHING' FOR INFO P

By Sara Susanne Fabunan

HILIPPINE National Police Chief Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa said on Saturday that he hopes that the Catholic Church’s willingness to hear the “troubled consciences” of cops carrying out the government’s war on drugs wouldn’t turn out to be a “fishing expedition.”

“Sana hindi yan fishing expedition... nagsisimula ng ganun to lure yung disgruntled diyan na police na gustong pumunta...” Dela Rosa said in a radio interview.

The PNP chief added that both the church are both after the truth behind the controversial police operations against illegal drug suspects.

“We are all after [the] truth... basta truth and justice lang ang habol natin, hindi yung fishing expedition.”

Dela Rosa made the statement after the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines claimed that some police officers have approached Catholic leaders to confess their participation in the war against drugs.

But he said that top PNP officials are open to hearing the troubles of disgruntled cops, too.

“Handa rin kami makinig. For all we know, baka kung anu-ano nang nangyari sa baba, kung meron silang problema, then the PNP leadership is ready to help their complaints

their concerns.”

Dela Rosa reiterated his invitation to church leaders to join police operations, quoting the President that police operations have to be kept open even to its critics. “’Yun yung gusto ni Presidente, na open tayo para yung criticism nila, mabigyan nila ng totoong ugat kung ano ba talaga yung nangyayari sa police operations,” he said.

Dela Rosa said that the police have nothing to hide.

“Pasamahin niyo. Kung may tinatago kami, Francis, ang aming aim is to pumatay ng pumatay, bakit namin imbitahan yung...church, bakit namin imbitahan yung media? Para mabulabog yung ginagawa namin?

Hindi naman siguro. We are open,” he added.

The CBCP has been vocal about the spate of killings of drug suspects under the Duterte administration.

In a statement released on the wake of controversial police operations that led to the deaths of

minors Kian Loyd delos Santos, Carl Angelo Arnaiz, and Reynaldo “Kulot” de Guzman, the CBCP called for an end to the killings and for justice to be served.

“In the name of God, stop the killings! May the justice of God come upon those responsible for the killings!” said CBCP president and Lingayen-Dagupan Archbishop Socrates Villegas.

Meanwhile, the Philippines joined the Association of the Southeast Asian Nation and the 18 like-minded states calling the Human Rights Council for the Special Rapporteurs and independent experts to carry out their duties professionally, “in good faith and impartially” as they discharge their responsibility to support the work of the Council in promoting human rights worldwide.

In a statement, The Philippine Mission in Geneva ambassador Evan Garcia claimed that the States have “increasingly raised concerns” that a number of Special Rapporteurs and independent experts have “acted in violation of the spirit and letter of the Code of Conduct and Manual, which have undermined the credibility of the entire Special Procedures mechanism.

“As a member of the Human Rights Council, the Philippines attaches high significance to the work of the Special Rapporteurs and independent experts and fully supports discussions to strengthen the integrity and credibility of the Special Procedures mechanism of the HRC,” Garcia said.

The call was made a week after the Philippine government announced that it agreed to accommodate any Special Rapporteur on Summary Execution to investigate the country’s human rights situation but not its chief Agnes Callamard, whom it accused of “prejudging” the government’s war against illegal drugs and for allegedly calling President Rodrigo Duterte as a “murderer.”

Callamard has yet to responsd on the allegations against her.

Nearly 80 independent human rights experts under the Special Procedures mechanism of the HRC assist the Council in monitoring human rights in different parts of the world and pushing for improved conditions, on the basis of their subject or country expertise.

There is a Code of Conduct and a Manual of Operations that guide the conduct of their work.

Garcia, however, said that there were increasing concerns with regards to special rapporteurs and independent experts “going beyond their mandates, delivering politically biased and unsubstantiated public statements, and using uncorroborated, and sometimes false, information.”

“By joining the almost 30 countries in these joint statements, the Philippines affirmed its commitment in strengthening the Council as a platform for constructive dialogue and cooperation to pursue the common goal of promoting and protecting the human rights of all peoples,” he said.

NDF: STAGE SET FOR NATIONWIDE MARTIAL LAW THE National Democratic Front of the Philippines said that President Rodrigo Duterte’s assertion that the communists and the “yellows” are conspiring to oust him from office appears to be part of preparations to establish authoritarian rule in the country.

“It appears that such claims aim to set the stage to clampdown on the political opposition and all other forces standing up against moves to establishing Duterte’s authoritarian rule,” the NDFP, the political arm of the Communist Party of the Philippines, said in a statement.

“The CPP and other Left political forces may have no formal alliance with the Liberal Party and its affiliates but can recognize their

MAUTE...

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Brawner said the remaining hostages were scattered and hidden in different mosques and buildings in the battlefield, estimated to have shrunk to between five and seven hectares.

“Some of the hostages were given firearms and forced to fight with Maute/ISIS. They are considered combatants. Our government forces are allowed, for self-defense, to neutralize these combatants” he added.

He said terrorists still controlled several structures in the area, including mosques.

While running out of food and ammunition, the terrorists continue to fortify their defensive positions in areas they still occupy.

Brawner said despite a change of command in the Philippine Army, its newly installed chief Maj. Gen. Rolando Bautista, 1st Infantry Division commander Brig. Gen. Roselier Morillo, and Joint Task Group Marawi leader Maj. Gen. Danilo Pamonag have said there would not be any tactical changes in the offensives.

Instead, there would be “renewed operations” aimed at finishing the fighting, which has been going on for nearly five months now.

On Wednesday, the military rescued 17 hostages—nine men and eight women, including teachers who had been held captive since the start of the siege on May 23.

initiatives and action as serving the same purpose of resisting Duterte’s tyranny,” the group added.

The group was referring to Duterte’s claim on Wednesday that the CPP and the Liberal Party are working together to oust him.

“But what is really very clear is ‘yung Left pati––ang kaalyado ng Left is, ng mga Bayan is the… mga… ‘yung mga dilaw,” Duterte told reporters in Malacañang.

“Gusto nila ako paalisin dito sa Malacañang. O ‘di bigyan mo akong panahon magbalot. Eh basta-basta na lang tayo… But, I will show to the Republic that we have a very serious problem with our government officials,” he added.

Earlier, Liberal Party member and

Ifugao Rep. Teddy Baguilat both denied Duterte’s claim of a conspiracy, saying that it was “highly unlikely” that there is a joint move to topple the Duterte administration.

“While the left and the middle forces have common grounds to unite against human rights violations in an increasingly authoritarian regime, its highly unlikely that this is a concerted effort to bring down the administration,” Baguilat said.

The communist group said there are groups that have opposed acts that violate human rights.

“What Duterte claims to be a “conspiracy” is, in fact, the broad community of various political and social groups which have been roused to make a stand and act

UN...

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government, civil society, elders, parents and children themselves to ensure they are not involved in or used in armed conflci t.”

The program of support to disengaged/ at-risk children and their families through Unicef is being supported by the governments of Japan and Canada, among others.

The MILF instituted safeguards through its command structure to regularly monitor and screen troops to prevent children from associating or re-associating.

The United Nations will continue the monitoring of grave violations against children committed by all parties to conflci t.

In the Philippines, children continue to be direct victims of grave violations in the context of the armed conflict, affecting their rights to life, survival, development, protection and education, among others.

Most common grave violations are recruitment and use of children, occupation of and attacks on schools, killing and maiming and detention for alleged association with armed groups.

Thousands of children and families have been displaced in recent years by armed conflict, mainly in Mindanao. In 2017, the Marawi crisis displaced approximately 359,000 individuals, 205,000 of them being children.

against relentless killings by police, soldiers and vigilantes, aerial bombardment against communities, militarization and threats to bomb Lumad schools, suspension of the writ of habeas corpus and martial law in Mindanao, heightened campus repression and other acts of fascist tyranny of the Duterte regime,” NDCP said.

The group said the government plans to monopolize political power and clamp down and silence those who disagree with his policies and methods.

“He has threatened to impose martial law. His officials and loyalists have openly declared plans to use all means to have all those who dissent to be imprisoned.”

DRUG LORDS'...

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administration’s claim that illegal drugs and corruption have captured local politics,” Abella said in a statement read over state radio dzRB. “Progress against illegal drugs largely depends on the full support cooperation of everyone from the citizens to the church and communities,” he added.

Lopez, whom authorities tagged as a protector of Islamic State-inspired terrorists, was not in his house when narcotics agents swooped down on it.

Agents of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, however, were able to recover P5 million in illegal drugs and high-powered firearms, a list of Lopez’s associates, as well as explosive devices and ammunition.

Reports said Lopez was an alleged protector of the Ansar Al-Khaifa Philippines, a terrorist group under the command of Mohammad Jaafar Maguid, also known as Tokboy.

The military earlier claimed Maguid was responsible for a series of bomb attacks in several areas of Mindanao.

Meanwhile, the military on Friday said areas held by the

Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters in Maguindanao and Cotabato could see a spillover from the fighting in Marawi City, where a soldier was shot dead Friday by a terrorist sniper.

“The most threatened areas are in Maguindanao and Cotabato. Because there remains in those areas sizable numbers of armed men who have pledged allegiance to this—the group who are in Marawi,” military spokesperson Maj. Gen. Restituto Padilla told reporters in a Palace news briefing.

Padilla said they continued to watch closely the developments in the areas of the 6th Infantry Division under the Western Mindanao Command to control the movements of armed elements.

Resistance from terrorist groups continue in the remaining seven to eight-hectare battle zone in Marawi, with another soldier killed due to sniper fire Friday morning.

“Early this morning, we had an incident when we were operating in an area and incurred another casualty through a sniper fire,” Padilla said.

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YOLANDA FUNDS TO GO TO MARAWI CITY—ARMM

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HE Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao said on Friday that some P5 billion in unused national government fund intended for the victims of Super Typhoon “Yolanda” in 2013 will be realigned for the rehabilitation of Marawi City.

ARMM Gov. Mujiv Hataman disclosed in a press conference that the regional government is also preparing for an immediate transitional shelter areas for residents in Marawi City affected by the

ongoing war.

“Our initial talks with the executive committee, the P5-billion unused money will be realigned, including the relief assistance of DSWD [Department of Social Welfare and Development],” Hataman said.

He said that the local government is in close coordination with the World Food Program and the International Committee of the Red Cross, and that they have discussed with the Lanao del Sur provincial government regarding efforts for the rehabilitation of clustered groups.

But Hataman admitted that there is no concrete plan yet for the joint intervention effort pending the assessment of the situation on the ground.

“There is an initial plan, and this is the ... transitional shelter and other infrastructure prospects with the help of public works and highways in the region.”

Hataman also disclosed that the San Miguel Corp. has pledged to construct 1,000 household subdivision-type temporary shelters, and the Pag-IBIG housing project loan for Mindano State University and government employees of the city.

Earlier, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said that the more than four-month long Marawi crisis will end in a few days.

Lorenzana said that government forces are still engaged in fierce battle with some 40 to 50 proISIS Maute terrorists in the city.

VISITING QUEEN. Miss Earth Australia 2017 Nina Robertson join Manila Standard employees during her visit at the publication’s office in Makati on Wednesday.

GADON WANTS RODY AS SPECIAL PROSECUTOR VS CJ THE lawyer who filed the impeachment case against Chief Justice Ma. Lourdes Sereno on Friday said that he would ask Congress to allow President Rodrigo Duterte to act as special prosecutor in the impeachment trial against the chief magistrate.

“I will formally file a motion with the House of Representatives and also the Senate, whichever the case may be, na payagan maging special prosecutor si President Duterte,” said lawyer Larry Gadon said at a forum in Quezon City.

Gadon said he will file a motion if the impeachment complaint he filed against the Chief Justice reaches the Senate for trial.

The House Committee on justice has recently deemed sufficient in

substance the impeachment case filed by Gadon. The next step is the determination of probable cause.

Gadon said that there are no provisions in the Constitution that prohibits a sitting President to sit as as special prosecutor in an impeachment trial.

“Ang paniniwala ko diyan ay wala naman sigurong bawal diyan, sapagkat this is a political exercise, at kung yung mga Associate Justices nga ng Supreme Court ay iimbitahin ko na maging witness, bakit naman ang executive branch, ang presidente, ay hindi mabigyan ng pagkakataon na makilahok sa isang political exercise na ito?”

Gadon said.

If Duterte is allowed by Congress to sit in the prosecution panel,

the President will be able to crossexamine Sereno during the trial, Gadon said.

He is also confident that Duterte would be willing to become a special prosecutor, since the President himself earlier said that he wants Sereno, along with Ombudsman Conchita CarpioMorales, impeached.

Duterte was a public prosecutor before he became mayor of Davao City. This would make him qualified to grill witnesses in the event of an impeachment trial against the Chief Justice, Gadon said.

But Gadon added that he has yet to talk to lawmakers who could potentially endorse the motion.

“Wala pa akong nakakausap,” he said. “Ito’y susubukan ko pa lang.”

The lawyer said he does not believe that Duterte’s participation in the possible impeachment trial will influence senators, who will sit as judges.

“Sa tingin ko hindi naman, sapagkat ang mga senador ay matured naman na individuals, professionals, sila naman ay mga sariling isip,” Gadon said, adding that the strength of the case will still rest on the evidence presented.

Gadon has accused Sereno of culpable violation of the Constitution, corruption, other high crimes, and betrayal of public trust.

He said he has yet to form a legal team to represent him in the event of a trial, but he said he wanted to be a private prosecutor in the case too, alongside Duterte.

‘DECLINE ON NEW FOREIGN INVESTMENT ALARMING’

STAYING HEALTHY. The Quezon City Health Department held a ‘dancercise’ at the QCX Event Center for the elderly and senior citizens during the Health Fair for the Elderly, with the theme ‘Have Fun, Be Happy and Stay Healthy.’ Manny Palmero

SENATE Minority Leader Franklin M. Drilon expressed serious concerns over the capability of the government to attract new foreign investments.

Drilon raised this as it was revealed during the Senate hearing on the proposed budget of the National Economic and Development Authority that new investment in the first half of 2017 plunged 90.3 percent from the same period in 2016.

Latest Foreign Direct Investment shows a significant deceleration in the influx of new investments, according to Drilon, citing data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, which showed that foreign equity placements other than reinvestments of earnings decreased by 90.3 percent during the first six months of 2017 ($141 million) vis-à-vis the same period in 2016 ($1.448 billion).

“We note from the reports that there is a deceleration in new investment. This is very alarming. Why such a huge drop? Is this an indication of anything?” Drilon asked.

The minority leader said that the Neda has a lot to explain about this huge drop in new foreign investments, saying this is “reflective of confidence of foreign business on our country.”

“If we are to attract new foreign investment, then it is about time that we take a serious look at how things are going on in our country, because new investment would not come in unless we are able to raise the investors’ confidence level on our country,” Drilon said.

Citing a study conducted by The 2018 Asean Business Outlook Survey published by the American Chamber of Commerce in Singapore and the US Chamber of Commerce, Drilon said among the companies surveyed, only 22 percent chose the Philippines as a possible expansion location, with Vietnam topping the list (34percent). The Philippines ranked sixth lagging behind Vietnam, Myanmar (29percent), Indonesia (29percent) Thailand (26percent), and Cambodia (23percent).

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SOLON SLAMS JUNKING OF P100K LIMIT ON BONUSES

By Maricel V. Cruz

AN OPPOSITION leader in the House of Representatives on Saturday slammed the Senate for throwing out the House’s initiative to increase to P100,000 the aggregate amount of 13th month pay, Christmas bonus and other benefits that may be received tax-free by employees every year.

“The whole point of the higher ceiling for tax-exempt bonuses and other benefits is to help as many employees as possible. The higher the limit, the greater the number of potential beneficiaries,” Buhay Rep. Lito Atienza, senior deputy minority leader, said.

“On top of the mandatory 13th month pay, a growing number of employees are now getting Christmas bonuses, productivity incentive handouts, loyalty rewards, cash gifts and other benefits of similar nature, and they deserve to fully enjoy all these subsidies,” Atienza said.

The proposed Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Act, as embodied in House Bill 5636, passed by the House in May raised from P82,000 to P100,000 the maximum amount of 13th month pay, Christmas bonus and other benefits that may be earned by employees free of withholding income taxes.

But the provision in HB 5636 was dumped when the Senate ways and means committee sent the measure out for plenary debate and approval.

“The exclusion is unfair to compensation earners who for years have endured the burden of paying for the lion’s share of all personal income taxes,” Atienza, former three-term mayor of Manila, said.

Atienza has been batting for the passage of key measures seeking to assure employees a rising standard of living, including a bill that proposes to require all corporations to distribute at least 10 percent of their annual net income to their workers as profit share.

SEPARATE REGULATION FOR TNCS PUSHED A HOUSE leader has filed a bill proposing a separate regulatory framework that will govern transport network companies (TNCs) like Grab and Uber where the Transportation department shall be given the sole authority for the operations of these services.

Camarines Sur Rep. LRay Villafuerte, in filing House Bill 6467, recognized the need to adapt to such technological innovations while ensuring the safety and comfort of the ever-growing number of users of online ride-sharing platforms.

In his proposal, Villafuerte said, it is the Department of Transportation, and not the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board that should have authority over TNCs and transport network vehicle services (TNVS), because the vehicles used in these point-to-point (P2P) transport services are “private carriers” and not common or public carriers that fall under LTFRB supervision.

“TNVS, like the drivers of Uber and Grab, should be classified as ‘private carriers’ because they can choose not to offer their car-riding services by signing off from the platform and their services are by special agreement only, unlike ‘common carriers’ which are persons, corporations or associations engaged in the business of carrying or transporting passengers or goods or both, for compensation,”Villafuerte, vice chairperson of the House committee on local government, said.

Villafuerte also pointed out that TNCs, such as the companies behind Uber and Grab, do not provide transportation services but merely link a potential customer with a third-party driver or TNVS and are thus not parties to a transportation contract.

“The State must rethink and address decades-old rules and entrenched interests to continue to maintain the efficiencies of the new ridesharing movement introduced by TNCs like Uber and Grab,” Villafuerte said.

Villafuerte likened TNCs to a travel agency that merely arranges the booking for a person but the actual transporting of a customer is done by the airline, which by analogy, is the TNVS. He said TNVS provide the public not only an alternative means of transport, but also encourage car owners to leave their vehicles at home, which help decongest traffic in Metro Manila and other urban centers. Maricel V. Cruz

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SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2017

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Adelle Chua, Editor

MILLIONS CONNECTED, BUT POWERLESS

EDITORIAL

By Nathaniel Bullard

T

SMARTPHONES have been adopted by the billions worldwide in no small part because they are wireless. But they’re not entirely so. They still use wires to draw electricity—whether from a coalfired power plant hundreds of miles away or a rooftop solar panel.

While delivering the next billion smartphones to first-time customers is relatively easy, finding ways to charge them is not, because many people in developing countries lack reliable access to electricity. Solving this problem will challenge the rich world’s assumptions about what services should be provided by which kinds of network companies.

In most countries where people lack reliable access to electricity, they have better access to a 3G or better cellular network. This means the smartphone—and its business, social and entertainment uses—will create greater demand for electricity.

That seems like an opportunity for power utilities to extend services, whether through a traditional network or a micro-grid that meets the needs of only a few hundred or few thousand consumers. But it might not be.

One reason is that, in the past 20 years, all the other things (other than smartphones) that the next billion consumers demand have become much more energy-efficient.

For example, a 19-inch television targeted to the off-grid market, which is essentially a tablet screen with a TV receiver, uses only 10 kilowatt-hours of electricity per year—compared with 67 for a traditional cathode-ray-tube TV. A full suite of basic electric devices (five 60-watt lightbulbs, one TV, a radio, a ceiling fan and a refrigerator) uses less than one-third the daily electricity than it did two decades ago.

This has made a significant dent in the electricity demand that can be expected from providing service to 1.2 billion people. Meeting their basic needs in the 1990s would have required about as much power as South Korea generates in a year. Now, it’s about as much as Malaysia makes. Take out refrigeration, and it’s barely more than the electricity generated by Serbia, a country of seven million people.

For a traditional power utility, such low demand presents a challenge: Wires cost the same regardless of how much power runs through them, and when the throughput is low, it takes much longer to pay back the investment.

How, then, to meet the demand for electricity to power smartphones and other new devices?

One way is to avoid traditional wires altogether and build mini-grids.

This is something cellular network companies have already learned to do on their own. And since they also have established service and billing relationships with their customers, they’re in a good position to expand their services.

Another strategy is to give traditional power utilities something else to sell, to

HAIL THE CABS

HE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board has approved a P10 increase in the flag-down rates of taxis in Metro Manila and other provinces, except in the Cordillera Administrative Region where the increase would be P5.

The order brings back the flagdown rate to P40 where it used to be P30 after a rollback in 2015.

Since 2015, however, despite the rollback, passengers have been paying P40 anyway—cab drivers express disgust when passengers are aware they must subtract P10 from the total fare, or lie outright when they say the rollback does not apply anymore.

Unfortunately these are not the only offenses cab drivers are notorious for committing.

We understand they are under pressure to earn money on top of the boundaries they are supposed to turn over to their operators, but even that is not an excuse for their infractions. Among these—refusing to convey passengers, imposing mark-up rates, behaving in a boorish manner, using uncouth language and not maintaining vehicles.

Small wonder then that those who can afford to pay a few extra pesos have been taking, instead, transport network vehicles such as Uber and Grab. But in an administrative spat earlier this year the LTFRB suspended Uber and only allowed its operation after it paid P190 million in fines.

This approval of taxis’ fare increase is conditional, according to the LTFRB. Taxi drivers and operators must participate in a modernization program that requires cabs to have

free Wi-Fi, a CCTV that records the past 24 hours and a camera that could record, at least, 24 hours.

All these are good on paper—this is how an efficient, quality-conscious transport service provider should be, in the first place, operating beyond the basic requirements of good manners and good hygiene, besides.

Operators are not allowed to increase their boundar y requirements so any additional cash taxi drivers would collect would go to their own pockets. It is hoped this will lessen the temptation of overcharging passengers.

It is perplexing, however, how passengers who are already willing to pay bigger amounts for TNVs before the increase would now even prefer taxis over their superior rides.

The reception of TNVs says a lot about the lack of options commuters seem to feel in their daily routines.

They are willing to pay higher for better service—increasing taxi fares without a corresponding change in how drivers treat their passengers will make them even more irrelevant, and despised.

The derision also extends to operators who forget their business partakes of a public-service nature, and to the LTFRB, which fails spectacularly at protecting and empowering the people.

Turn to A5

‘BLOODLUST’ POETRY: PROTESTING AGAINST ‘TOKHANG’ AND TYRANTS IN THIS age of fake news, lies from the bully pulpit, and the flouting of human rights in the name of an unjust and inhumane anti-poor war, some writers are joining the anti-tyrannos struggle through their art.

Enter stage left, a book of protest

poetry that is “a response to what is happening in our country, from the subtle to outraged, in four languages,” says writer Alfred ‘Krip’ Yuson, in his introduction to “Bloodlust: Philippine Poetry from Marcos to Duterte.”

It is, he says, “our protest against the cavalier disregard of human rights and lives…from the long period of Ferdinand E. Marcos’ rule to what we hope to be a brief tokhang tenure by Rodrigo Roa Duterte.”

A collection Yuson co-edited with poet Gemino H. Abad, “Bloodlust”

gathers poetry from Filipinos all over the world.

In it are works by National Artists for Literature Cirilo F. Bautista and Virgilio S. Almario; writers residing abroad, including Joel Vega (the Netherlands), Eric Gamalinda, Luis H. Francia, and Luisa A. Igloria (the U.S.), and Merlinda Bobis (Australia); and PH-based writers such as Joel Pablo Salud, Alma Anonas-Carpio, Marne Kilates, and Lourd de Veyra. Sixtyfive poets contributed 133 poems.

“Here…in “Bloodlust,” says Abad, “our writers speak up and stand their

ground!...it cannot be said that our writers since Balagtas and ‘La Solidaridad’ were ever mute. Without the writer, and poor and oppressed among us have no voice else.”

He also reminds us: “Our literature, wrought from whatever language, in whatever genre, is our people’s memory.

A country is only as strong as her people’s memory!”

Bloodlust, then, is a documentation of that memory. In these pages are recorded the fear and loathing of tokhang, EJKs, fake news, creeping Chinese inva-

sion and incipient dictatorship.

The “Bloodlust” poems also raise the curtain on the little-but-large heroisms and heartbreaking suffering of our fellow Filipinos.

Here are the voices of our poets: From Abad’s “Scarborough Shoal”: On a day, and ever since/ “Out, out of Scarborough! Away!” Chinese coast guards warn. / “Hoy!” Etac yells back / as they point their rifles at him, “Where does it show you own the sea?”/ They move their vessels as to ram his boat Turn to A5

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From A4

make the investment more worthwhile.

Electric cooking is one option. People already cook, so the demand is there.

Electric cooking produces much less indoor air pollution than cooking on charcoal or wood does, and its cost should vary much less than that of either of those fuels. That said, electric stoves are not as exciting as new phones or TVs are, and might not pull in as much demand.

Agricultural appliances could also bring in new demand for power.

Irrigation pumps, processing equipment, and the refrigeration needed to preser ve food for distribution and sale require significant amounts of power for short periods, and would benefit from the economies of scale that a large electricity network can provide. However, even those applications are already being met in a distributed fashion.

Powering smartphones for the

next billion people who use them will be a big challenge, but also an opportunity to build networks, and bundle services, in new ways.

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‘BLOODLUST’ ...

From A4 —“Pesteng yawa!” he laughs at their incomprehension of his expletives, the dirty finger…”

From Francia’s “Requiem for the Common Tao”: “They did him in for / what he did, though / he had not. / Did him in, they did, didn’t / they, though he had no / sin, did he now. / for all he had / was running on / empty belly / empty veins / empty mind and pocket / empty in excelsis Deo!...”

From Igloria’s “Ghazal, with Rising Body Count”: “Newspaper stories of lifeless bodies fished out of / the gutter: too many now every day to number. / Their wrists are bound, their mouths sealed / with tape. Before they died, who had their numbers? ...”

From Vega’s “A Sad Day in the Body”: “Say ’knock’, say ‘plead’ and the body drops to its knees under / the sky’s blue awning. Ground is no more ground, not bed / nor repose. A girl of seven stood on the road, by her father’s house / made of cardboard, beneath a flock of crows. They came in two’s, beaks of steel, feathers flecked with gunpowder…”

From Yuson’s “Populism”: “Uncertainty prevails. The winds / of touted change bring ogres / with guttural language. Harsh / are their sounds. They have long / been eerily quiet within the gates, / after all, but grown in numbers. / Now as barbarians unmasked, / they gloat with the odors of idiocy…”

There is no poem that seeks center stage; rather they weave in and out of each other as dancers do. Whether read in sequence or opened to a random page, the poems still cohere despite having different themes. All provide an emotional perspective in varying degrees.

In addition to being a record of these trying and troubled times, this book and other works of protest writing and art can also inspire to struggle, to resist, to act. “The only thing necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing,” said Edmund Burke, so when all has been said, then all must be done.

Perhaps after that we shall witness: Exit dictator, pursued by a bear.

Dr. Ortuoste is a California-based writer. Follow her on Facebook and Twitter.

EVERYMAN

By Ferdinand M. dela Cruz GEONGJU, Korea—Manila Water is honored to be part of this initiative— the 1st Asia Water Week and Korea International Water Week—to push the water agenda to ensure sustainable urban growth and development. Manila Water is here through the auspices of our partner, the Metro Manila Waterworks and Sewerage System or the MWSS. We strongly support the priority program of (ret.) Gen. Rey Velasco and MWSS to ensure water security for Metro Manìla by building new and large water sources.

The updating of the Metro Manìla Water Supply Masterplan is critical to underpin the continued economic development of Metro Manila whose GDP accounts for

By Pecier Decierdo THIS year’s Nobel Prize in physics goes to three physicists who made immense contributions to the detection of gravitational waves. The announcement of this prize comes just a month after scientists announce the fourth time gravitational waves were detected, this time by three detectors instead of just the two used to obtain the first detection.

These back-to-back announcements have the scientific world excited. Why? Because as a milestone, the detection of gravitational waves is on the same level as understanding the role of DNA to life on Earth, or the realization that atoms combined in specific ways make everything up. Better yet, it is at par with the moment Galileo first used the telescope to study the heavens. With the detection of gravitational waves, a new chapter in science begins.

In 1915, Einstein published a theory that improved upon his previous work. This product of a decade of work is one of the greatest products of any human mind, the general theory of relativity. This theory incorporated gravity into Einstein’s original theory on space and time.

Einstein’s theories have many interesting consequences. First, it showed that space and time are inseparable part of the fabric of the universe called space-time. Second, it

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2017

A5

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HOW GRAVITATIONAL WAVES OPEN A NEW CHAPTER IN SCIENCE

showed that gravity is a consequence of the way massive objects warp or create “dips” in space-time. Third, it predicted that dips in space-time can ripple outward similar to the way dipping something on the surface of a pond creates ripples that radiate out. This last consequence predicted the existence of gravitational waves.

For years, scientists have labored to detect these ripples in space-time.

The first hints that they really exist came from observations of the dance between two massive stars.

In 1974, Joseph Taylor and Russell Hulse measured the tempo of the tango between two special kinds of stars, one a neutron star and another a pulsar (which is an even more special kind of neutron star).

Taylor and Hulse found that the stars are spiraling into each other, which means they are losing gravitational energy. Since energy is neither lost nor created, this indicated that the neutron star and pulsar are making ripples in space-time time like kids making ripples in a pond as they run around each other.

The work of Taylor and Hulse showed that gravitational waves existed, and it won them the 1993 Nobel Prize in physics.

Scientists, however, were not contented in the indirect detection of gravitational waves. They wanted to measure these space-time ripples

directly.

There are two big reasons to go after direct detection.

First, directly detecting gravitational waves will allow scientists to study the details of the way space-time oscillates in gravitational waves. This can give clues on whether Einstein’s theory needs revision, and if it does, what kinds of revisions it needs.

Second, the direct detection of gravitational waves will open up a new window into the universe.

Ever since the dawn of astronomy, observers have been content learning about the universe by studying the light coming from stars, nebulae, distant galaxies, quasars, and other distant objects.

This window into the universe widened when we realized that visible light is just one of many different kinds of electromagnetic waves. There are also microwaves such as the afterglow of the universe’s violent birth. There are radio waves broadcasted by neutron stars.

There are gamma rays produced by exploding supernova.

By studying the different kinds of electromagnetic waves that reach us, scientists pieced together the birth of the universe, some of the steps in the formation of new planets, the formation of the atoms that make us up, and so much more.

However, merely looking does not give you the complete experience of a movie. To get that you must also listen. The detection of gravitational waves does something like giving us an entirely new sense through which to understand the universe. By using gravitational waves, it is as if we are now “listening” to the universe in addition to watching it.

It turns out the universe is filled with the violent reverberations of dark, massive monsters; the first gravitational waves we detected came from the violent collision between black holes. It is hard to “see” such collisions because black holes do not produce light. However, their motion creates ripples in space-time that we can now detect.

In the future, scientists are hoping to detect even more space-time ripples coming from the violent explosion of dying stars, the collision between neutron stars, and many other phenomena currently unknown and unimaginable to scientists.

The ultimate prize is to detect the ripples from the very birth of our universe. By trying to detect such space-time wrinkles that are the remnants of our universe’s birth, we learn more about how we all got here.

Pecier Decierdo is the resident physicist and astronomer of The Mind Museum.

AS PUTIN TURNS 65, HIS POWER IS SLOWLY WANING

By Leonid Bershidsky RUSSIAN President Vladimir Putin turned 65 yesterday (Oct. 7). As of this year, this is the maximum retirement age for Russian civil servants, which can only be raised in special cases.

Though Putin, as an elected official, is not subject to this law and has indicated that it’s too early for him to retire, he reaches this milestone in a surprisingly vulnerable position.

Putin’s vulnerability would be hard to pinpoint if officials weren’t pointing to it with their clumsy actions. Alexei Navalny, the anti-corruption activist who would like to run for president against Putin in next year’s election, planned a rally in St. Petersburg, the president’s hometown for Oct. 7. City authorities withheld permission for the gathering, but since he refused to change his plans Navalny is now serving yet another 20-day detention; it’s been calculated that he has spent every fifth day of his “presidential campaign” behind bars. His campaign manager Leonid Volkov was also sentenced to 20 days on Thursday, ostensibly for tweeting calls for an illegal rally in Moscow.

Navalny held a series of successful rallies in Russian cities in September.

Thousands turned out to see him in Murmansk, Yekaterinburg and Omsk.

Though in every case local police low-balled attendance numbers, the authorities’ concern grew, and as the campaign planned rallies closer to Moscow and St. Petersburg, they cracked down. Last week, Navalny was detained in Moscow as he was about to leave for a rally in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia’s fifth biggest city.

Though he still managed a couple of trips after police let him go without charges, attendance in Orenburg was hurt by the uncertainty of whether the headliner would show up.

The Russian hinterland, where Navalny has been trying to campaign,

Vladimir Putin participates in an arm-wrestling contest during a visit at a summer camp run by the Nashi youth group at Lake Seliger in the central Tver region on Aug. 1, 2011. AFP

has always been politically passive. Local authorities, school administrations and employers have never shown much tolerance for dissent. That thousands of people consistently break with the tradition of passivity and brave the consequences of coming out in support of a lone opposition voice is a new phenomenon, something not seen during the Putin era, which has already lasted for a generation. Who knows how many people would have turned out in St. Petersburg for Putin’s birthday? In a clear sign of weakness, the Kremlin has decided against finding out.

By any outward criteria, Putin could afford to let Navalny campaign freely.

It’s obvious that Russia has weathered the economic consequences of the commodity price collapse and Putin’s 2014 break with the West. The oil price is holding at a level the government considers sustainable for the Russian budget. Core inflation is down to the UK level. Economic growth is back, and there’s especially robust progress in agriculture, the sector Putin had

singled out for priority development as Russia battened down its hatches in 2014. The Saudi king has paid his first ever visit to Moscow: Russia is stronger in the Middle East than it has ever been since the breakup of the Soviet Union. Ukraine, the biggest thorn in Putin’s side, has descended into its usual quagmire of political squabbling and economic incompetence. In other words, everything is going reasonably well—there are no obvious defeats or failures that could undermine Putin’s dominance in Russia.

And yet Navalny understands something that’s only visible to the naked eye at these rallies he has the courage to convene. In a blog post dictated as he began his detention, Navalny described Putin’s weakness despite his seemingly high approval rating by referring to the turnip-like root vegetable that was once a staple of the Russian peasant diet: “It’s like asking a person who has been fed nothing but rutabaga all his life, how edible he finds rutabaga. The

approval rating will be quite high.

Quite likely, many well-known athletes and singers will come out in support of rutabaga and will be willing to become ambassadors for it. Why not? Rutabaga is our daily bread, it gives us stability.

This is a fitting analogy: I’m 41, and the last time I saw anyone but Putin elected was when I was 20.”

Navalny senses the fatigue that is also reflected in low local election turnouts. In a democratic country, that fatigue could turn into a marked drop in electoral support, the way it did for the ruling centrist parties in Germany last month.

Putin himself hasn’t announced his candidacy yet. He’s overwhelmingly likely to do so next month, and there’s little doubt that he’ll be declared winner of the March election, but his aides appear to be out of creative ideas for a non-boring reenthronement. If it looks more like a retirement party than a vigorous campaign, and if the turnout is low, as it’s likely to be, Putin’s next six-year presidential term won’t be boring at all.

By law, Putin can’t run again in 2024, and an anodyne placeholder like former President Dmitri Medvedev won’t do the trick this time. Putin’s successor will have to break the tangible boredom—but there’s no one in the ruling party who might be able to do it. So, for the next six years, the search will be on for an inspiring personality. That, and the need to maintain economic credibility, will be hard to square with the increased repression necessary to counteract Russians’ growing irritation with their “rutabaga diet.”

Perhaps Navalny is overoptimistic about that fatigue. Russia is not a volatile country; it’s good at hibernating. But the country is beginning to stir, barely visibly so far, in its sleep. The current stasis won’t be easy to extend into Putin’s next term.

Bloomberg

WATER SECURITY KEY TO PH ECONOMIC GROWTH 37 percent of national output.

Together with MWSS, we just celebrated last month 20 years of a successful public-private partnership.

A water PPP model that was able to turn around a water crisis situation in the mid-90’s to the current excellent service of world class standards which is highly recognized in the global water industry. Most importantly, the working Concession Model between the government and the private sector was able to provide access to affordable potable water and sanitation for the urban poor. More than half of the new customers we have added to the customer base we inherited, or over 1.8 million people, came from the marginalized sector who used to buy

expensive vended water when service was poor or absent. These customers now enjoy 24/7 piped water and regular sanitation services.

More than 90 percent of the first set of employees of Manìla Water came from MWSS. These talents have adopted well to the private sector and provided the core of the knowledge and technical base for Manila Water. More properly equipped and driven by a strong performance and service culture, this talent base also became a source of technical and social innovation producing homegrown designs and communitybased approaches which allowed Manila Water to serve more customers and improve operating efficiencies. As

an example, by reducing non-revenue water from 63 percent to 11 percent, we were able to save 700 million liters per day which we used to cover more areas in our concession.

Since eight years ago, we have ventured outside Metro Manìla to replicate the success of the water PPP model in solving urban water issues.

We now have operations in several parts of the Philippines. We are one of the largest foreign direct investors in Vietnam where we have a number of water businesses concentrated in the Ho Chi Minh area. We supply almost 50 percent of Ho Chi Minh’s treated water requirements. We have pilot projects in Bandung and Yangon for NRW reduction. Our talent base now

includes Vietnamese and Indonesian engineers who have become well versed with our capability set and service culture.

In closing, water PPP can work in many places provided the regulatory framework is clear, transparent and consistent. An output-based scheme is appropriate for the private sector to provide an environment to perform well and in an efficient manner. Water PPP has worked in Metro Manila. It has worked in other parts of the Philippines.

It can work in many more places in Asia.

Manila Water is a testimony that Asians can solve Asian water issues.

Ferdinand M. dela Cruz is the president of Manila Water Co.

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

News

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2017 A6 Standard TODAY Manila

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HPG COPS TO WATCH CHOKEPOINTS

By Joel E. Zurbano

A

T LEAST 60 members of the Philippine National Police Highway Patrol Group were deployed to help enforcers man and control traffic in the seven identified major chokepoints along Epifanio de los Santos Avenue to address road congestion during the Christmas season.

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC We are pleased to communicate that the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has favorably approved the amendment in our corporate name from Faith in God Recruitment. Placement & Manpower Services Corporation (FIG RPMS Corporation) to Faith in God RPM PROFESSIONAL AND TECHNICAL SERVICES CORPORATION (FIG RPM PTS Corporation).

The change in our corporate name more accurately reflects our professional expertise and highly specialized services as an Independent Contractor.

Certified by the Department of Labor and Employment and fully compliant with DOLE Department Order 174, series of 2017.

Accordingly, to avoid any confusion and/or problems in the different reportorial requirements with the different government agencies, kindly reflect our new corporate name Faith in God RPM PROFESSIONAL AND TECHNICAL SERVICES CORPORATION (FIG RPM PTS Corporation), in all communications, government reports/entries and accounting transactions.

We shall continue to faithfully service our commitments. Glory to God! REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Ground Floor, Secretariat Building, PICC City Of Pasay, Metro Manila COMPANY REG. NO. CS200713012

Thomas Orbos, general manager of the Metro Manila Development Authority and concurrent chief of the Inter-Agency Council on Traffic (i-ACT), said the HPG personnel were already in position at the major choke points— Balintawak Market Road, Aurora Boulevard, Ortigas Avenue, Shaw Boulevard, Guadalupe, Ayala Avenue and Taft Avenue.

Orbos said the return of the HPG to the 23.8-kilometer highway aims to improve traffic management on Edsa in time for the holidays.

HPG officers at each choke point would be assisted by two non-police officers to augment police visibility in the area. They would have motorcycles and patrol cars to chase and apprehend erring motorists and to conduct a roving check of the traffic situation, Orbos said.

The police vowed to make sure

that no extortion activity will happen on Edsa.

The government came up with the holiday traffic program for the peak “-ber” months—the months of September, October, November and December— when road congestion is a common sight, especially along Edsa where more than 16 shopping malls are situated.

"Finding viable measures to address the traffic problem is a continuous process and may entail drastic changes and deviation from the present norms," said Orbos.

Authorities would target the critical areas during busy periods, including bus stops and no-stopping zones, which are notorious for illegal parking, picking up, and dropping of passengers and goods.

The MMDA will also intensify its crackdown on illegal vendors, illegal transport terminals and

sidewalk stalls without permits.

The agency observed that loading and unloading of bus passengers at non-designated areas and the wanton disregard of public and private motorists of traffic rules are the reasons why there is road congestion.

The government and mall operators also agreed to adjust shopping centers' opening and closing hours from the usual 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. to 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

To date, MMDA has just 2,368 traffic enforcers doing three shifts. These personnel are spread along the 197 kilometers of major roads and thoroughfares in Metro Manila.

MMDA traffic engineering center chief Noemi Recio said the ideal number of people to control and manage the traffic flow in the National Capital Region is 7,000.

She said Edsa alone needs at

CERTIFICATE OF FILING OF AMENDED ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION

‘YOLANDA’ SURVIVORS WANT DIÑO OUT OF POST

KNOW ALL PERSONS BY THESE PRESENTS, This is to certify that the amended articles of incorporation of the FAITH IN GOD RPM PROFESSIONAL AND TECHNICAL SERVICES CORPORATION DOING BUSINESS UNDER THE NAMES AND STYLE OF, FAITH IN GOD IMAGE GATEWAY & TECHNICAL SKILLS DEVELOPMENT CENTER; FAITH IN GOD PRODUCTIONS; FIG PROPERTY MANAGEMENT AND SUPPORT SERVICES; FIG WELLNESS & PRODUCTS DISTRIBUTION SERVICES; AND FIG BUSINESS PROCESS SUPPORT & CONTRACT MANUFACTURING SERVICES (Formerly: FAITH IN GOD RECRUITMENT, PLACEMENT & MANPOWER SERVICES CORPORATION DOING BUSINESS UNDER THE NAMES AND STYLE OF FAITH IN GOD IMAGE GATEWAY; FAITH IN GOD PRODUCTIONS; FAITH IN GOD PROPERTY MANAGEMENT; FAITH IN GOD WELLNESS CENTER; AND FAJTH IN GOD INDEPENDENT JOB) (Amending Article I, II Purpose & III thereof.) copy annexed, adopted on June O5, 2017 by majority vote of the Board of Directors and by the vote of the stockholders owning or representing at least twothirds of the outstanding capital stock, and certified under oath by the Corporate Secretary and a majority of the Board of Directors of the corporation was approved by the Commission on this date pursuant to the provision of Section 16 of the Corporation Code of the Philippines, Batas Pambansa Big. 68, approved on May 1, 1980, and copies thereof are filed with the Commission.

Unless this corporation obtains or already has obtained the appropriate Secondary License from this Commission, this Certificate does not authorize it to undertake business activities requiring a Secondary License from this Commission such as, but not limited to acting as: broker or dealer in securities, government securities eligible dealer (GSED), investment adviser of an investment company, close-end or open-end investment company, investment house, transfer agent, commodity/financial futures exchange of broker/merchant, financing company and time shares/club shares/membership certificates issuers or selling agents thereof. Neither does this Certificate constitute as permit to undertake activities for which other government agencies require a license or permit.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have set my hand and caused the seal of this Commission to be affixed to this Certificate at Pasay City, Metro Manila, Philippines, this ______day of July, Twenty Seventeen.

FERDINAND B. SALES Director Company Registration and Monitoring Department

(MS-OCT. 8, 2017)

DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES

National Capital Region REGIONAL BIDS AND AWARDS COMMITTEE INVITATION TO BID CONCRETING OF ROAD ACCESS 1.

The DENR-NCR, through the GAA-CY 20171 intends to apply the sum of TWO MILLION SIXTY FOUR THOUSAND ONE HUNDRED FORTY PESOS (PhP2,064,140.00) being the Approved Budget for the Contract (ABC) to payments under the contract for “Procurement of Infrastructure Project – Concreting of Access Road.” Bids received in excess of the ABC shall be automatically rejected at bid opening.

2.

The DENR-NCR now invites for the Concreting of Access Road located in DENR-NCR, Mechanized Nursery, DOST Compound, Bicutan, Taguig City.

Completion of the Works is required within One Hundred Twenty (120) calendar days. Bidders should have completed, within five (5) years, a contract similar to the Project. The description of an eligible bidder is contained in the Bidding Documents, particularly, in Section II. Instructions to Bidders.

3.

Bidding will be conducted in accordance with relevant procedures for open competitive bidding as specified in the IRR of RA 9184 (R.A. 9184), with some amendments, as stated in these bidding documents and is open to all bidders from eligible source countries as defined in the applicable procurement guidelines of the World Bank. The contract shall be awarded to the Lowest Calculated Responsive Bidder (LCRB) who was determined as such during post-qualification. The Estimated Project Cost for this project is Two Million Sixty Four Thousand One Hundred Forty Pesos only, PhP2,064,140.00

4.

Interested bidders may obtain further information from the Regional Bids and Awards Committee of the DENR-NCR and inspect the Bidding Documents at the address given below from 8:00am to 5:00pm, Mondays to Fridays.

5.

A complete set of Bidding Documents may be purchased by interested Bidders from October 05 to October 24, 2017 from the address below and upon payment of a non-refundable fee for the bidding documents in the amount of Five Thousand Pesos (Php5,000.00).

It may also be downloaded free of charge from the website of the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System (PhilGEPS) and the DENR-NCR website (http://www.ncr.denr.gov.ph) provided that bidders shall pay the non-refundable fee for the Bidding Documents not later than the submission of their bids.

6.

The DENR-NCR will hold a Pre-Bid Conference on October 13, 2017 at 10:00 AM at the DENR-NCR Conference Room, 4th Floor, National Ecology Center, East Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City, which shall be open to all interested parties.

7.

Bids must be delivered on or before October 25, 2017 at 10:00 AM at the DENR-NCR BAC Secretariat/Procurement Unit, 3rd Floor, National Ecology Center, East Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City. All bids must be accompanied by a Bid Security in any of the acceptable forms and in the amount stated in ITB Clause 18 or in a form of Bid Securing Declaration.

Opening of Bids will immediately follow in the presence of the bidders’ representatives who choose to attend at the address below. Late bids shall not be accepted.

8.

The DENR-NCR reserves the right to accept or reject any bid, to annul the bidding process, and to reject all bids at any time prior to contract award, without thereby incurring any liability to the affected bidder or bidders.

9.

The DENR-NCR likewise assumes no obligation whatsoever to compensate or indemnify any bidder or winning bidders as the case may be from any expenses or loss that said party(ie) may incur in its participation in the prebidding and bidding process nor does it guarantee that an award will be made.

10. All bids must be accompanied by a Certification of Site Inspection issued by the implementing office (end-user), 11. For further information, please refer to: BAC Secretariat Procurement Section, 3rd Flr, DENR-NCR Bldg.

National Ecology Center East Avenue, Quezon City Tel. 373-43-99 October 02, 2017. signed ATTY. ALVIN JOSEPH G. CONSTANTINO Chairperson, Regional Bids and Awards Committee DENR-NCR National Ecology Center, East Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City Telephone No. (078) 304-1800 1

In the case of National Government Agencies, the General Appropriations Act and/or continuing appropriations; in the case of GOCCs, GFIs, and SUCs, the Corporate Budget for the contract approved by the governing Boards; in the case of (LGUs, the Budget for the contract approved by the respective Sanggunian. (Section 5(a), R.A. 9184) (MS-OCT. 8, 2017)

least 1,000 traffic personnel to be assigned at the major choke points.

"We need more people to manage these choke points. We need at least 1,000 men along Edsa, that's the ideal," Recio said.

Last year, the HPG leadership turned over to the MMDA the full control and management of traffic on Edsa.

The HPG then focused in handling the traffic management and control on two other major roads in the metropolis— the Commonwealth Avenue and the Circumferential Road-5 (C-5 Road).

The HPG took over traffic control on Edsa from the MMDA in September 2015 following the directive of then President Benigno Aquino III, who believed that the presence of armed traffic enforcers would make a big difference.

EURO EDUCATION FAIR. European Union First Secretary Jerome Riviere (middle) poses with European Higher Education Fair goodwill ambassadors Stephanie Zubiri Crespi, Eric Manuel, Theresa Leung, Monica Araneta, EU member-state representatives, embassy staff, and cultural institution officials, during the EHEF press conference at Shangri-La Plaza in Mandaluyong City. Manny Palmero

DUTERTE RENEWS PH TIES WITH BRUNEI AND BOLKIAH

By John Paolo Bencito PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte reaffirmed his commitment to further broaden and deepen bilateral cooperation with Brunei Darussalam as he returned Saturday from an official visit to the tiny, oil-rich kingdom.

In a statement, Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said Duterte, who joined other world leaders for the golden jubilee celebration of the accession to the throne of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, reaffirmed the long and enduring ties between the Philippines and Brunei Darussalam and renewed the special friendship between the two countries.

The President has described His Majesty the Sultan “as a friend of the Philippines in the truest and most profound sense of the word,” Abella said in a statement.

Duterte likewise recognizes His Majesty the Sultan's principled commitment “to the pursuit of just and lasting peace and development in Mindanao, the well-being of Filipinos in Brunei Darussalam, and his unequalled efforts to bring the two countries closer to each other.”

“The President looks forward to further broaden and deepen bilateral cooperation with Brunei Darussalam, as well as to advancing efforts toward a more peaceful, prosperous and progressive Asean,” Abella added.

Other key leaders from within and outside of the region joined the celebration at Brunei’s capital of Bandar Seri Begawan, including Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Sen, Indonesia's President Joko Widodo, and Malaysia's Prime Minister Najib Razak.

“The celebrations were a fitting tribute to a beloved Leader

who made amity and cooperation a cornerstone of secure and stable relations between nations in Southeast Asia and beyond,” Abella said.

Duterte arrived in Davao at 1:47 a.m. Saturday, the Palace said.

This is also the first time that Duterte had left the country since the Marawi siege erupted last May. The President first visited Brunei in October last year, where he and Bolkiah underscored the importance of further strengthening defense ties by countering terrorism, violent extremism, and piracy at high seas.

Bolkiah then visited Manila last April, where both leaders vowed to enhance security, economic and cultural ties.

Bolkiah, who was born in 1946, ascended to the throne as Sultan of Brunei on Oct. 5, 1967.

NEW CUSTOMS-NAIA CHIEF SWORN IN CUSTOMS Commissioner Isidro Lapeña Jr. has designated Ninoy Aquino International Airport deputy collector for operations Ramon Anquilan as officer-in-charge of Collection District III-Naia.

Lapeña said Anquilan's assumption as Customs-Naia collector came in replacement of Edgar Macabeo, who retired late last month.

Prior to his present appointment, Anquilan was Post Entry Audit Group chief of the Customs Compliance Assessment Office; officer-in-charge director of Trade Information Risk Analysis Office; Special Assistant to the Office of the Commissioner; deputy collector for operations in Port of Cebu; and collector in Mactan and Dumaguete.

Anquilan also served as OIC at the Naia Customs-On Board Courier Center, and appraiser and examiner at the Airport Arrival Operations Division before becoming the Formal Entry Division chief.

Lapeña said he is optimistic that with the appointment of Anquilan as Naia-Customs collector, the district would be able to meet its P50 billion revenue target for this year.

The Customs chief said he is hoping that Naia district personnel will improve their

collection performance also with the help of the newly acquired P172 million worth X-ray scanning machines.

Lapeña said with the new X-ray machines, taxable items can be easily detected as well as drugs and guns hidden in luggage and balikbayan boxes without opening them.

“These are advance units. We will be able to improve the facilitation of luggage and at the same time, every box or bag would be subjected to thorough inspections,” he said.

During the 57th anniversary of the Customs-Naia office, Lapeña honored Macabeo by awarding him a Plaque of Appreciation for the good work he has done for the bureau.

At the same time, Lapeña warned that something unpleasant will happen to agency personnel who do not make the proper valuation of goods.

He said he received as marching order from Malacañang to stop corruption in the bureau as well as to improve its revenue earnings.

The former Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency director general also took the opportunity to remind the Customs rank and file that the “tara” bribery system is illegal. Joel E. Zurbano

CEBU CITY—Victims of Typhoon “Yolanda” in Tacloban City have asked President Rodrigo Duterte to discipline Presidential Assistant for the Visayas Michael Lloyd Dino for allegedly not doing his job as housing czar for the displaced victims of the 2013 super typhoon.

They appealed to the President to name another official who will take care of Visayans outside Cebu City, especially the victims of the super typhoon in Tacloban City in Leyte province.

“We suffered three long years under the ‘Yellow’ administration. But our continued suffering under your administration could only be because your point man in the Visayas is all about PR and not actual performance,” said the group of typhoon survivors.

Signed by Laarni Cabatingan, Vincent Basiano, Vicente Baula and Faye Quindor, the letter, dated Sept. 15, was addressed to President Duterte through Cabinet Secretary Leoncio B. Evasco Jr. and was received by Malacañang on Sept. 29.

The President directed Diño on Nov. 8, 2016 to use his office as a coordinating body of agencies tasked to provide permanent shelters and livelihood to those displaced.

On Nov. 28, 2016, Diño had announced his accomplishments in just 18 days, which he described as “Duterte Speed.”

“The problem besetting the resettlement effort three years after ‘Yolanda’ struck Leyte has been solved in just 18 days after President Duterte’s tapang and malasakit (courage and compassion) to the victims prompted him to issue presidential directives to finish it without delay,” Dino said.

Data from the National Housing Authority showed that as of Nov. 22, 2016, a total of 14,433 housing units have been bid out and 3,442 units have been substantially completed, while 3,974 units are fully completed. Around 2,101 units have already been awarded to beneficiaries. Junex Doronio

P300-M BIOTECH CENTER IN N. ECIJA SCIENCE CITY OF MUÑOZ, Nueva Ecija—The Department of Agriculture will build the country's biggest biotechnology center at the Philippine Rice Research Institute here, which would generate more technologies and innovations for farm management.

Dr. Roel R. Suralta, head rop Biotechnology Center and one of the proponents of the project, said the goal of constructing the center is to generate improved technologies, increase productivity, and enhance the commercial value of the department’s priority crops, such as rice, abaca, coconut, white and yellow corn, cotton, cassava, sweet potato, yam, tomato, and eggplant.

The center will not only provide equipment and facilities, but also training and support to the Filipino researchers who will venture into biotechnology, Suralta added.

"It also aims to build a network among local and international researchers to sustain and continually advance biotechnology in the Philippines," he said.

More than P300 million has been raised to build the state-of the-art laboratories and facilities.

The United States government granted the funding for the facility through its Public Law 480 program, also known as the Agricultural Trade Development and Assistance Act. Ferdie G. Domingo

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

Sports

A7

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2017 reuelvidal@yahoo.com

ONE CHAMPION FOLAYANG FACES FORMIDABLE CHALLENGE

O

NE CHAMPIONSHIP Lightweight world champion Eduard “Landslide” Folayang faces another formidable challenge when he defends his crown against ONE Championship Featherweight world champion Martin “The SituNguyen wants to set ONE Championship history when he guns for a second championship at ONE: Legends of the World to be held at the Mall of Asia Arena on Nov. 10, 2017.

Folayang defends his title for the second time following a resounding unanimous decision victory over Malaysian challenger Ev Ting also at the MOA last April.

The 28-year-old Australian standout knocked out the previously unbeaten Marat “Cobra” Gafurov and laid claim to the featherweight crown in the main event of ONE: Quest for Greatness this past August. He insists he has a winning strategy to beat the Filipino.

“Eduard’s striking is pretty legit.

A bit wild, but it works for him. Everyone who gets tagged by Eduard, they walk into every single one of his strikes. Eduard is the counter striker, and everyone who comes forward gets hit with a spinning attack, a big right hand, or big kicks,” Nguyen said.

“You have to keep moving against someone like Eduard.

If you do not move, then you are a standing punching bag.

With my style, I am always moving. If I am going backwards, sideways, or forward, I want to make it hard for him to hit me, and I want to make every bit of my wrestling count.”

Despite being the taller athlete, Nguyen expects to be the lighter man on the night of their battle. He plans to use that to his advantage, believing his speed and dynamism will be the key to victory in the five-round championship contest.

“My strength in this match is my Eduard Folayang, holds his ONE Championship belt, with the Makati skyline in the background. ONE Championship

POC president Peping Cojuangco talks to scribes about what went on during the POC General Assembly last Friday.

PEPING FORMS GRIEVANCE COMMITTEE Text and photo by Peter Atencio

Martin Nguyen (right) misses with a roundhouse right against opponent Marat Gafurov during their championship battle won by Nguyen. ONE Championship

pace and my cardio. Eduard has legitimate cardio, obviously, training in Baguio City, but going at the pace I go at, I think he is going to fatigue, and my grappling will get the best of him. He is a strong guy, but I will use his weight against him in this match,” he said.

Nguyen knows that he has quite the challenge ahead of him, especially since he is heading into Folayang’s home turf of Manila in the Philippines.

However, he believes he is up to the task and trusts his plan to

be enough for him to take home the ONE Lightweight World Championship and write his name in history books.

“It is so surreal. Last year, I set my goals. I said to myself, ‘This year, I want to rematch Marat [Gafurov], take the belt off of him and become a two-division champion.’

I am 75 percent of the way there. I beat Marat and I got the featherweight belt. Now I am in a super bout for the first time ever in ONE Championship history to become a

two-division champion. Everything is falling into place. It is appealing to know all hard work pays off,” he said.

Although he has a tough test in front of him on Nov. 10, Nguyen remains optimistic that a decisive outcome will be in his favor at ONE: Legends of the World.

“This match is going to be stopped. I would love for it to be a KO, but I see it as a submission or a TKO for Martin ‘The Situ-Asian’ Nguyen, of course,” he said.

EXPECT National Chess Federation of the Philippines president Prospero “Butch” Pichay to have a big role in the many changes that will be done within the Philippine Olympic Committee.

Last Tuesday, heads of 18 NSAs met and sought change from within. To address such concerns, a grievance committee has been formed that’s headed

by Pichay.

“Yes, we organized a committee that’s for anyone who has questions,” said POC president Jose “Peping Cojuangco following Friday’s POC General Assembly at the Sheraton Hotel in Manila.

Pichay was given the primary task of studying and making recommendations on numerous issues facing the POC. “If we don’t tackle these problems, we will not be able to achieve a harmonious relationship between the POC, the PSC and the NSAs,” said Pichay.

There are many standing committees within the POC which need to be reactivated said Squash president Richard Bachmann, one of the NSA heads who have raised questions during a meeting of NSA leaders last Tuesday.

The formation of the committee headed by Pichay is meant to tackle questions that are being raised.

“That’s one of the changes we identified last Oct. 3. Because we actually have standing commissions in the POC that needs to be reactivated,” reiterated Bachmann, who was later appointed to assist Pichay in the committee.

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK Manila

Standard

Republic of the Philippines Department of Education REGION IV-A CALABARZON Gate 2 Karangalan Village, Cainta. Rizal

Republic of the Philippines Department of Education REGION IV-A CALABARZON Gate 2 Karangalan Village, Cainta. Rizal

Republic of the Philippines Department of Education REGION IV-A CALABARZON Gate 2 Karangalan Village, Cainta. Rizal

INVITATION TO BID

INVITATION TO BID BOARD & LODGING FOR THE REGIONWIDE TRAINING ON EARLY LANGUAGE, LITERACY & NUMERACY (ELLN) PROGRAM BATCH 5

INVITATION TO BID REPRINTING OF KINDERGARTEN ACTIVITY SHEETS AND GRADE ONE ENGLISH ACTNITY SHEETS

TODAY

PROCUREMENT OF CY 2016 BEFF BATCH 7 PROVISION OF SCHOOL FURNITURE UNDER CY 2016 BEFF 1. The DepED Region IV-A CALABARZON, through the SARO No. BMB-B-17-0006689 dated May 12, 2017 intends to apply the sum of Thirty Million Seven Hundred Forty Three Thousand Pesos (Php30,743,000.00) being the Approved Budget for the Contract (ABC) to payments under the contract for the Procurement of 2016 School Furniture Batch 7. Bids received in excess of the ABC shall be automatically rejected at bid opening.

1.

38,970 pieces ---ES/JHS armchair 866 set --------ES/JHS (TTC) 229 -------------school sites (recipients) Only those Cooperatives of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) are allowed to participate.

2. The DepED Region IV-A CALABARZON now invites bids for the Procurement of 2016 School Furniture Batch 7. Delivery of the Goods is expected for the Contract duration of one hundred twenty (120) calendar days. Bidders should have completed, within five (5) years from the date of submission and receipt of bids, a contract similar to the Project. The description of an eligible bidder is contained in the Bidding Documents, particularly, in Section II. Instructions to Bidders.

3. Bidding will be conducted through open competitive bidding procedures using a non-discretionary “pass/fail” criterion as specified in the 2016 Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act (RA) 9184, otherwise known as the “Government Procurement Reform Act”.

Date of Activity ---------------November 13-17, 2017 (Phase 1) November 20-24, 2017 (Phase II) 2.

3.

4.

9. For further information, please refer to:

(i) Bidding is restricted to Filipino citizens/sole proprietorships, partnerships, or organizations with at least sixty percent (60%) interest or outstanding capital stock belonging to citizens of the Philippines, and to citizens or organizations of a country the laws or regulations of which grant similar rights or privileges to Filipino citizens, pursuant to RA 5183.

Interested bidders may obtain further information from DepED Region IV-A CALABARZON (BAC Secretariat) and inspect the Bidding Documents at the address given below during office hour at 8:00am to 5:00pm Monday to Friday.

Interested bidders may obtain further information from DepED Region IV-A CALABARZON (BAC Secretariat) and inspect the Bidding Documents at the address given below during office hour at 8:00am to 5.00pm Monday to Friday.

5.

A complete set of Bidding Documents may be acquired, by interested Bidders on October 6, 2017 from the address below and upon payment of the applicable fee for the Bidding Documents, pursuant to the latest Guidelines issued by the GPPB, in the amount of Five Hundred Pesos (Php500.00) per Lot, Note: For lot procurement, the maximum fee for the Bidding Documents for each lot shall be based on its ABC, in accordance with the Guidelines issued by the GPPB; provided that the total fees for the Bidding Documents of all lots shall not exceed the maximum fee prescribed in the Guidelines for the sum of the ABC of all lots.}.

7.

Bids must be duly received by the BAC Secretariat at the address below on or before October 26, 2017 at 10:00 a.m . All Bids must be accompanied by a bid security in any ofthe acceptable forms and in the amount stated in ITB Clause 18.

Bid opening shall be on October 26, 2017 at the Director’s Office Conference Room. Bids will be opened in the presence of the bidders’ representatives who choose to attend at the address below. Late bids shall not be accepted.

9.

The DepED Region IV-A CALABARZON reserves the right to reject any and all bids, declare a failure of bidding, or not award the contract at any time prior to contract award in accordru1ce with Section 41 of RA 9184 and its IRR, without thereby incurring any liability to the affected bidder or bidders.

It may also be downloaded free of charge from the website of the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System (PhiIGEPS) and the website of the Procuring Entity, provided that Bidders shall pay the applicable fee for the Bidding Documents not later than the submission of their bids.

6.

The DepED Region IV-A CALABARZON will hold a Pre-Bid Conference3 on October 13, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. to be held at the Director’s Office Conference Room, which shall be open to prospective bidders.

7.

Bids must be duly received by the BAC Secretariat at the address below on or before October 26, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. All Bids must be accompanied by a bid security in any of the acceptable forms and in the amount stated in lTD Clause 18.

Bid opening shall be on October 26, 2017, 11:00 a.m. at the Director‘s Office Conference Room. Bids will be opened in the presence of the bidders’ representatives who choose to attend at the address below. Late bids shall not be accepted.

8.

The DepED Region IV-A CALABARZON reserves the right to reject any and all bids, declare a failure of bidding, or not award the contract at any time prior to contract award in accordance with Section 41 of RA 9184 and its 1M without thereby incurring any liability to the affected bidder or bidders.

9.

For further information, please refer to Ann Geralyn T. Pelias DepED Region IV-A CALABARZON Gate 2 Karangalan Drive, Cainta, Rizal 6477487 & 6474914 www.depedcalabarzonph

For further information, please refer to: Ann Geralyn T Pelias DepED Region IV-A CALABARZON Gate 2 Karangalan Drive, Cainta, Rizal 6477487 & 64749j 4 www.depedcalabarzonph

(SGD) ANN GERALYN T. PELIAS BAC Chairperson Mav be deleted ill case the ABC is less than One Million Pesos (PhP1,000,000.00) where the Procuring Entity may not hold a Pre-Bid Conference.

(MS-OCT. 8, 2017)

1

Bidding will be conducted through open competitive bidding procedures using a nondiscretionary “pass/fail” criterion as specified in the 2016 Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations (lRR) of Republic Act (RA) 9184, otherwise known as the “Government Procurement Reform Act”.

4.

The DepED Region IV-A CALABARZON will hold a Pre-Bid Conference3 on October 1 3, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. to be held at the Director’s Office Conference Room, which shall be open to prospective bidders.

8.

(SGD) ANN GERALYN T. PELIAS BAC Chairperson

(SGD) ANN GERALYN T. PELIAS BAC Chairperson 3

Mav be deleted ill case the ABC is less than One Million Pesos (PhP1,000,000.00) where the Procuring Entity may not hold a Pre-Bid Conference.

(MS-OCT. 8, 2017)

1

The DepED Region 1V-A CALABARZON now invites bids for the Reprinting of Kindergarten Activity Sheets and Grade One English Activity Sheets, Delivery of the materials is expected for the Contract duration of seventy five (75) calendar days, Bidders should have completed, within five (5) years from the date of submission and receipt of bids, a contract similar to the Project. The description of an eligible bidder is contained in the Bidding Documents, particularly, in Section II, Instructions to Bidders.

(i) Bidding is restricted to Filipino citizens/sole proprietorships, partnerships, or organizations with at least sixty percent (60%) interest or outstanding capital stock belonging to citizens of the Philippines, and to citizens or organizations of a country the laws or regulations of which grant similar rights or privileges to Filipino citizens, pursuant to RA 5183.

6.

Ann Geralyn T. Pelias DepED Region IV-A CALABARZON Gate 2 Karangalan Drive, Cainta, Rizal 6477487 & 6474914 www.depedcalabarzon.ph

3

2.

Bidding will be conducted through open competitive bidding procedures using a nondiscretionary “pass/fail” criterion as specified in the 2016 Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act (RA) 9184, otherwise known as the “Govemment Procurement Reform Act”.

It may also be downloaded free of charge from the website of the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System (PhiIGEPS) and the website of the Procuring Entity, provided that Bidders shall pay the applicable fee for the Bidding Documents not later than the submission of their bids.

Bid opening shall be on October 26, 2017, 11:30 a.m. at the Director’s Office Conference Room. Bids will be opened in the presence of the bidders’ representatives who choose to attend at the address below. Late bids shall not be accepted.

8. The DepED Region IV-A CALABARZON reserves the right to reject any and all bids, declare a failure of bidding, or not award the contract at anytime prior to contract award in accordance with Section 41 of RA 9184 and its IRR without thereby incurring any liability to the affected bidder or bidders.

Bids shall be on a per Lot basis

A complete set of Bidding Documents may be acquired by interested Bidders on October 6, 2017 from the address below and upon payment of the applicable fee for the Bidding Documents, pursuant to the latest Guidelines issued by the GPPB, in the amount of Five Hundred Pesos (Php500.00).

Note: For lot procurement, the maximum fee for the Bidding Documents for each lot shall be based on its ABC, in accordance with the Guidelines issued by the GPPB; provided that the total fees .for the Bidding Documents ofall lots shall not exceed the maximum foe prescribed in the Guidelines for the sum of the ABC ofall lots.}.

It may also be downloaded free of charge from the website of the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System (PhilGEPS) and the website of the Procuring Entity, provided that Bidders shall pay the applicable fee for the Bidding Documents not later than the submission of their bids.

7. Bids must be duly received by the BAC Secretariat at the address below on or before October 26, 2017 at 11:30 a.m. All Bids must be accompanied by a bid security in any of the acceptable forms and in the amount stated in ITB Clause 18.

The DepED Region IV-A CALABARZON now invites bids for the Board & Lodging for the Regionwide Training on Early Language, Literacy & Numeracy (ELLN) Program Batch 5. Delivery of the Services is expected for the Contract duration. Bidders should have completed, within .five (5) years from the date of submission and receipt of bids, a contract similar to the Project. The description of an eligible bidder is contained in the Bidding Documents, particularly, in Section II, Instructions to Bidders.

The DepED Region IV-A CALABARZON, through the SARO Nos, OSEC4A-17-5612 and OSEC No, 4A-17-5595 intends to apply the sum of Ten Million Nine Hundred Forty Three Thousand Seven Hundred Twelve Pesos (Php10,943,712.00 being the Approved Budget for the Contract (ABC) to payments under the contract for the Reprinting of Kindergarten Activity Sheets and Grade One English Activity Sheets. Bids received in excess of the ABC per Lot shall be automatically rejected at bid opening.

LOT I - Kindergarten Activity Sheets ----205,733 cps, ABC Php5 ,789,327,00 LOTII- Grade One English Activity Sheets---251,066cps-ABC Php5,154,385,00

Preferred venue shall be somewhere within Cavite & Laguna only.

5. A complete set of Bidding Documents may be acquired by interested Bidders on October 13, 2017 from the address below and upon payment of the applicable fee for the Bidding Documents, pursuant to the latest Guidelines issued by the GPPB, in the amount of Ten Thousand Pesos (Php10,000.00).

Note: For lot procurement, the maximum for the the Bidding Documents for each lot shall be based on its ABC, in accordance with the Guidelines issued by the GPPB; provided that the total fees for the Bidding Documents of all lots shall not exceed the maximum fee prescribed in the Guidelines for the sum of the ABC of all lots).

6. The DepED Region IV-A CALABARZON will hold a Pre-Bid Conference3 on October 13, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. to be held at the Director’s Office Conference Room, which shall be open to prospective bidders.

1.

Cluster I ------Cavite -----------------------ABC Php 1,368,000. 00----114 pax Cluster II -----Laguna ----------------------------Php 1,464,000,00----122 pax

(i) Bidding is restricted to Filipino citizens/sole proprietorships, partnerships, or organizations with at least sixty percent (60%) interest or outstanding capital stock belonging to citizens of the Philippines, and to citizens or organizations of a country the laws or regulations of which grant similar rights or privileges to Filipino citizens, pursuant to RA 5183.

4. Interested bidders may obtain further information from DepED Region IV-A CALABARZON (BAC Secretariat) and inspect the Bidding Documents at the address given below during office hour at 8:00am to 5:7Apm Monday to Friday.

The DepED Region IV-A CALABARZON, through the OSEC funds 4A-174894FY 2017 intends to apply the sum of Two Million Eight Hundred Thirty Two Thousand Pesos (Php2,832, 000, 00) being the Approved Budget for the Contract (ABC) to payments under the contract for Board and Lodging for the Regionwide Training on Early Language, Literacy & Numeray (ELLN) Program Batch 5. Bids received in excess of the ABC per Cluster shall be automatically rejected at bid opening.

3

Mav be deleted ill case the ABC is less than One Million Pesos (PhP1,000,000.00) where the Procuring Entity may not hold a Pre-Bid Conference.

(MS-OCT. 8, 2017)

1

A8

Sports

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2017 Riera U. Mallari, Editor / Reuel Vidal, Issue Editor / Randy Caluag, Issue Editor

sports_mstandard@yahoo.com

PH YOUTH ALL-STARS THRILLED WITH UNIQUE NBA EXPERIENCE Nathaniel Angelo Manarang in action

Joachim Eddie Laure and the rest of the NBA and JR. WNBA Philippine All-Stars take on challenges during training under NBA coaches and trainers at the Fuego Sports Center in Shanghai.

Courtesy of Jr.NBAAsia Facebook

By Randy Caluag

“R

EPRESENT yourself well and follow the S.T.AR. values.” Coach Jeff Cariaso’s message to the Philippine Jr. NBA/ WNBA all stars was loud and clear.

“You will play with other players and meet new friends. Expect to play hard and expect to have some fun, too,” said the former Alaska Aces star to the 16-member Jr.NBA and Jr. WNBA Philippine All-Stars for the NBA Shanghai Experience.

Cariaso, the former Alaska Aces star and now director for basketball operations of Alaska Milk Corporation, presented the all-star squad during a send-off ceremony recently at the Outback Restaurant in Makati City.

STAR stands for sportsmanship, teamwork, a positive attitude and respect.

And the 16-member young all-stars were determined to follow it to the heart.

The team, composed of eight boys and eight girls from various parts of the country, flew to Shanghai on Friday and converged with other All-stars teams in Southeast Asia for a unique and what could a once-in-a lifetime NBA experience.

The Philippine Jr. NBA allstar squad is composed of 14-year-old Kenjie Trey Duremdes, Jan Clement Maca-

The members of the Jr. NBA and JR. WNBA Philippine All-Stars executives from NBA Asia and major partner Alaska Milk Corporation during the send-off party in Makati City. Anthony Yu

lalang(13) and Victorino Torres (13), who all come from La Salle Greenhills; Joachim Eddie Laure from University of Sto. Tomas, Johnedel Austria (Escuela de SophiaCaloocan), Ian Dominic Espinosa (Ateneo de Iloilo), ReinhardJumanoy (University of San Carlos-North Campus) and Jeryk Dwight Bait ( St. Francis National High School in Lucena).

Making up the Jr. WNBA Philippine All-stars are BoniMarylene Solis, Jane Araza from Chang Kai Shek College, Jeehan Nikaela Admed (La Salle Santiago); Jazmine Ann Maniquis ( St. Paul Pasig) Lindsey Nacional (La Salle College Antipolo), Camille Nolasco (Miriam College),Chinnsai Demana (University of the Visayas in Cebu) and Graciey Aine De Mesa of Lucena City National High School.

Laure, son of former PBA player Eddie, said he joined the Jr. NBA program be-

cause he was inspired by his friends who had already experienced the NBA Global Games trip.

“Sila po ang naging inspirasyon kasi sa kwento nila na kakaiba po daw talaga.”

Duremdez, son of former PBA all-star legend Kenneth, said used his older brother as motivation to make it to the cream of the crop of the program.

“Sumali po kasi ung kuya ko three years ago pero hindi po nakapasok. Kaya nag promise po ako na pipilitin ko na ako naman ang makalusot,” said the La Salle Greenhills student.

The Magic 16 players were selected from out of more than 30,000 aspirants who participated in regional training camps in major cities in the country.

The top 37 in each of the boys and girls division advanced to the National Training Camp until they

were trimmed to the Final 8 in each of the Jr NBA and Jr. NBA all-star teams.

One of the standouts in the Jr. WNBA is Jeehan Admed, an eight grader from De La Salle Santiago, who claimed it was her height advantage that probably made her click in the camp.

“Main skill ko po ang depensa,” said the 13-year-old who stands 5-10.

On the first day yesterday, the Filipino youngsters were off to training and scrimmage under NBA coaches, along with their counterparts from Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand and Singapore, at the world-class facility Fuego Sports Center.

Tomorrow morning will be the culmination of their training at the same venue before heading to the Global Sports Arena in the afternoon for a ringside seat to watch the game between the NBA defending champions

Golden State Warriors and the Jimmy Butler-led Minnesota Timberwolves.

The Filipino All-stars will return to Manila on Monday.

The NBA’s parternship with Alaska for the Jr. NBA Philippines program started in 2011. The Jr. NBA Program is a great fit with Alaska’s mission to nurture young talents and to promote healthy and active lifestyle through sports and outdoor play. The brand aims to open world class opportunities for kids through basketball.

With Alaska as the presenting partner, the Jr. NBA program has reached hundreds of schools and communities nationwide and benefited thousands of children, parents, and coaches through grassroots activities like basketball training camps and school clinics, NBA Cares outreach projects, television programs, and online initiatives.

WBC PICKS GAB AS BOXING COMMISSION OF THE YEAR

Games and Amusement Board (GAB) chairman Baham Mitra (right) receives from WBC vice president Bob Logist of Belgium the Commission of the Year trophy.

THE prestigious World Boxing Council has awarded the Philippine’s Games and Amusement Board (GAB) with Commission of the Year 2017 trophy during its recent 55th world convention Convention at Baku, Azerbaijan.

“This is a recognition of all the board’s hard work and dedication to improving boxing in the Philippines,” said GAB chairman Abraham Mitra.

“The WBC is the oldest and most prestigious boxing organization in the world with so many countries-commissions as members and it is a great, great honor for GAB and the Philippines to receive this ci-

tation and award.”

“I think it’s the innovations we have instituted thru transparency, participation, and dedication plus of course love for boxing that was recognized.”

The GAB was recognized by the WBC for its program of providing medical assistance to Filipino boxers, in cooperation with the Department of Health, headed by secretary Dra. Paulyn Jean Rosell-Ubial In an earlier executive meeting with the WBC board of governors, the GAB-DOH medical licensing assistance program was well applauded when it was pre-

sented by Mitra.

President Mauricio Sulaiman of Wbc has asked for a copy of the MOA and internal rules and urged other more developed countries to follow the Philippine example.

Those present to witness the receipt of the award were former GAB chairman Ramon Guanzon, WBC medical commission vice chair Dr. Nasser Cruz, top Filipino promoters Johnny and Liza Elorde, WBC president Mauricio sulaiman, the WBC supreme council members and other executives and the managers/ promoters from all over the world.

MANARANG’S CAGE STAR SHINES BRIGHT BIG things start from the small beginning.

Nathaniel Angelo Manarang started playing basketball in his makeshift half-court in their home’s backyard and at the covered court in their subdivision in Antipolo City along with his kid buddies.

He learned basic plays through his dad businessman-sportsman Nat Manarang, who was a Tarlacqueno commercial standout during his prime. He honed his skill further through cage clinics.

Since playing for San Beda College Rizal in 2015, coaches have branded him as a real potential talent.

As frontliner for the San Beda Rizal Red Cubs, Nathan will definitely go places.

His most prestigious moments came when he played for the country in Guam International tournament under his mentor VL Sandala. Another highlight was his stint last year as a member of the PH Youth Elite team under coach Mark Herrera.

Nathan plays along with the powerhouse teammates, the Alaos, Ronquillos and Bradleys who are all proud Bedans.

Make way for the future of Philippine basketball.

KOREANS SHOW LOVE FOR PH TABLE TENNIS SO MANY Koreans fell in love with the Philippines and its people that they chose to stay and adopted the country as their second home.

One of them is Kwon Mi Sook, former Korean female coach Kwon Mi Sook of the Philippine team for two years and one of those responsible for honing the skills of Rio Olympian Ian Lariba, who is now fighting acute cancer in a hospital.

But even when her services are no longer required, she is still around to help the Philippine Table Tennis Federation, led by president Ting Ledesma.

Just recently, Kwon helped facilitate the donation of equipment from the Korea Table Tennis Association (KTTA) as well as financial assistance to Lariba.

No less than 2004 Athens table tennis gold medalist Seun Min Ryu paid a visit to Ledesma to personally hand the equipment.

Ryu, who is the International Olympic Committee representative to Korea and former president of KTTA, also visited Lariba at the hospital and handed her US$10,000 contributions from players and members of KTTA. Ryu was accompanied by World Athletic Association chairman Yoon Man-Young, Kwon, Ledesma, IOC representative to the Philippines Mikee Cojuangco and Philippine Philippine Korean Table Tennis Association President Noh Jun-ho.

“Yan talagang sina coach Kwon, malaking tulong sa Philippine table tennis sa lahat ng paraan. Dito na nakatira yan dahil napamahal na sa bansa natin,” said Ledesma, who gets the payment from his own pocket for the services of Kwon.

“Medyo naubos na budget natin so stop muna.” Randy Caluag

Olympic gold medalist Seun Min Ryu (left) donates equipment to Philippine Table Tennis Federation Ting Ledesma. With them is former Korean coach of Philippine national team, Kwon Mi Sook.

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SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2017

Business

Ray S. Eñano, Editor / Roderick dela Cruz, Issue Editor business@manilastandard.net

HOW A MINDANAOAN BECAME A BESTSELLING AUTHOR IN THE US

A

Mindanao-born marketing executive who studied in the Visayas and worked in Luzon is now a best-selling author and professor in the United States.

“I was not the smartest in my class, but I was a hardworking and diligent student and performed fairly well. The Philippine education system provided me with a solid foundation for my future career,” says Dr. J. Mark Muñoz, the chairman and chief executive of consulting firm Muñoz and Associates International, and now the most published Filipino-American business author. Muñoz and Associates directs mergers and acquisitions, international marketing, business development and international finance projects worldwide.

Muñoz is also a multi-awarded professor of International Business at Millikin University in Illinois. As a writer, he authored, co-authored or edited 14 books such as Land of My Birth, Winning Across Borders, In Transition, A Salesman in Asia, Handbook of Business Plan Creation, International Social Entrepreneurship, Contemporary Microenterprises: Concepts and Cases, Handbook on the Geopolitics of Business, Business Plan Essentials, HispanicLatino Entrepreneurship, Managerial Forensics, Strategies for University Management (Vol 1 and 2) and Advances in Geoeconomics.

Muñoz grew up in Zamboanga City. “My father was an insurance executive. I had a traditional Filipino upbringing and embraced the country’s values growing up. I enjoyed the strong sense of family and community in the Philippines as well as the countless natural attractions it had to offer,” Muñoz says in an email interview.

“I had my high school at the University of the Philippines in Cebu. My college and postgraduate years were spent at West Visayas State University in Iloilo and University of San Jose Recoletos in Cebu,” he says.

He graduated with a degree in Biological Science from WVSU in 1986, a Master’s in Business Management from University of San Jose Recoletos in 1992 and a Ph.D in Business Management from the same university in 1997.

He also attended post-graduate management programs at WHU (Germany), Peking University (China), Fudan University (China), Harvard University (US) and Shanghai University of Finance and Economics (China). He was an Asia Scholar at Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University in 2009 to 2010.

Muñoz recalls that as a young student, he dreamt of becoming a medical doctor to heal the sick. “I turned out to be a doctor of Management instead and now ‘heals’ organizational and operational problems of companies and countries instead. As I child, and even during college and the early stages of my career, I never dreamed of being a US educator and author. I guess our destiny can take us to unusual directions,” he says.

His exposure to business books written

by American authors, however, has altered his interests. “I remember reading several business books written by influential American authors during my post-graduate years. I was very impressed with the knowledge the books imparted. It shaped my thinking and helped me grow as a person and as an executive. Never did I imagine that one day, I would end up following the footsteps of those authors and receiving international awards and recognition for the books I have written,” he says.

Education and business are in the DNA of the Muñoz family. “Both my maternal and

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Filipino-American business author Dr. J. Mark Munoz

paternal grandparents were educators. My father was a successful insurance executive and my mom stayed at home and dabbled in business. They are both currently semi-retired in business and have remained active in religious and community activities in Cebu. I have a brother and two sisters. My brother runs his own business in the Philippines, and my two sisters have pursued their own careers in the US,” he says.

Muñoz’s tenure in a market research firm in Manila brought an opportunity to work overseas. “I ended up in the States after getting hired to be account director for US and AsiaPacific for an international market research firm. The role allowed me and my family to live in the States while I developed and marketed research products in Asia,” he says.

“After this role, I transitioned into the US academia as a professor in a private university.

I ended up studying in advanced management programs in China and Germany and directed educational programs across several countries,” he says.

Being a professor has opened more opportunities, especially in writing books. “In

2009, I became a visiting fellow at Harvard University and furthered my education there while sharing what I know with the campus community. I enjoyed academic life in the US and decided to stay on. Aside from having the honor and privilege of educating young minds, my work schedule allowed me to travel the world and write books,” he says.

Muñoz has completed 14 books and is in the process of completing six more. His topics cover international sales and marketing, microenterprises, social entrepreneurship, geopolitics and geoeconomics. He is considered a pioneer in the field of Managerial Forensics –the notion of using evidences as a tool to analyze causes of corporate “ailments” or “malaise”.

The books he is currently working on are in the areas of global business intelligence, globalization alternatives, ar ts and entrepreneurship and artificial intelligence in business. “I enjoy researching and writing about topics relating to globalization, global business, international management and strategy and international entrepreneurship,” says Muñoz. Being a voracious learner, Muñoz Turn to B2

CORDILLERA’S TOURISM SECTOR OFFERS CAREERS TO MILLENNIALS THE Department of Tourism is preparing an event that will unveil tourism career opportunities in the Philippines.

The First NorthPhil Tourism Forum and Career Fair is being organized by the DOT office in the Cordillera Administrative Region in Baguio City on Oct. 16 to 18.

“The fair will highlight the rise of our region as MICE [meetings, incentive travel, conventions and exhibitions] ‘CAReer’ hub for tourism,” said DOT-CAR regional director and project proponent Marie Venus Tan. “Such opportunities are open to all graduating students who are looking for a career in the tourism industry,” Tan said.

The three-day event includes lectures and fora on topics related to tourism career opportunities and practices as it brings the academe to the realities of the industry’s needs.

The speakers, who are the icons of practically all the tourism sectors, will present their personal and professional experiences in their respective career paths and provide tips on how to spot and seize opportunities for industry growth and advancement, thus resulting in jobs and livelihood generation.

“As industry leaders, they will talk about the realities in their respective sectors such as the culinary and restaurants, hotels and resorts, MICE, cruise, airlines and aviation and travel and tours, among others,” Tan said.

Also to be featured are the new breeds of tourism entrepreneurs who do business online using various mobile applications and other enabling digital mechanisms, including the income potentials that these can generate.

“And to fully equip and empower the graduates, they will be given a free seminar on basic productivity and quality concepts; communicating ser vice quality ; understanding, satisfying and managing customer expectations; and the art of effective listening and communication,”Tan said.

Trainers from the Department of Labor and Employment will also teach future employees on how to conduct themselves during employment interviews, while at the workplace, when subjected to sexual harassment, and how to deal with the reality of HIV in the community, among others.

The Technical Educations and Skills Development Authority will present its training programs, courses, and assistance to graduates in searching and qualifying for jobs. Another interesting session is about proper grooming where experts provide the formula in picking the right clothes, hairstyle and makeup for various occasions and situations.

The session includes discussion on the effective verbal and non-verbal communications during interviews and other forms of human interactions.

A special matching session at the career exhibition will also help jobseekers find employment that aptly suits their education, skills, personality and interests.

The 1st NorthPhil Tourism Forum and Career Fair will be held at the Camp John Hay Trade and Cultural Center as a human capital development project of the DOT’s CAR regional office in its pursuit of the National Tourism Development Plan 2016-2022.

The event is being organized and managed by the Philippine Exhibits and Themeparks Corp.

“The growth of tourism, being a largely service-oriented industry, depends on competent and tourismcapable human resources who can make a community or region tourism worthy, thus our focus on the academe as the matrix of our developmental efforts,” Tan said.

BALAMBAN: FROM SLEEPY TOWN TO BOOMTOWN

Shipbuilding firm Tsuneishi Heavy Industries with its more than 11,000 workers drives the economy in Balamban and neighboring towns and city in southwest Cebu.

MORE than 20 years ago, there were only a few opportunities for trade and employment in Barangay Buanoy in the southwestern Cebu town of Balamban.

Such is no longer the case these days. From being

a fourth-class municipality, Balamban became a firstclass town with a total regular income of P301.9 million, according to data from the Commission on Audit.

From a few stores, more than 1,300 business permits were renewed in 2014 and 242 new business permits were issued by the local government. The number of business permit renewals rose to 1,327 in 2015.

Among the fast-growing barangays are Buanoy and Arpili, where the West Cebu Industrial Park, the economic zone that hosts Tsuneishi Heavy Industries Inc. Charlie Ombao, THI factory support department manager, said that in 1994, he had to go to the Poblacion or town center to buy a beer. He was among the first employees of THI and worked during the construction stage of the shipbuilding firm.

Due to labor migration, Balamban’s population grew to 70,000 in 2014, almost double that of 1995, a year after THI was established.

THI has 11,260 employees and 760 of them are direct

hires. THI hired qualified residents from Buanoy and from other parts of Balamban, as well as those coming from neighboring Toledo City.

Residents like Jamaica Quimod could not imagine how their lives would have turned out if THI had not invested in the town. Quimod’s mother found a job at K & A, another locator at WCIP. Jamaica got a scholarship from the Tsuneishi Foundation to study civil engineering at the University of San Jose Recoletos. She graduated in March 2016 and began working at THI shortly after as a field engineer.

Quimod says that with THI, she sees her dreams becoming reality. “I want to study further, build a house for my parents, and visit places around the world,” she said.

Ombao said that THI continues to look for growth opportunities to be able to help Filipinos like Quimod.

Last year, THI built 20 vessels. It received 15 orders that are scheduled for delivery this year.

To provide quality products on schedule, THI chose AboitizPower to provide reliable and stable power for its operations.

Under the Retail Competition and Open Access regime, big power consumers like THI, or those that require 1 megawatt or more, have the option to choose their own licensed retail electricity suppliers.

“We chose AboitizPower because we trust them.

They have a track record of being a reliable and a responsible power company,” Ombao said.

Ombao said that THI takes its responsibility to the community and the environment seriously. In line with its parent company’s vision and mission, the facility in Balamban treats its wastewater before discharge, segregates its wastes so that only residual wastes are brought to the municipal landfill for final disposal, and complies with DENR regulations and standards on the treatment and disposal of hazardous materials.

Business

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SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2017 business@manilastandard.net

MINDANAOAN...

From B1

says he has read too many books to list. “The authors that have shaped my business thinking to a large extent are management gurus such as Peter Drucker, Michael Porter, Stephen Covey, Spencer Johnson and Tom Peters,” he says.

Muñoz says achieving his dreams in the US can be attributed to three approaches—hard work, passion for learning and cross-cultural appreciation. “I give a 101 percent in everything I do. I give it my all and do even more. In my view, success is often achieved when you’ve done your best work, and did an extra mile,” he says.

Muñoz says the attributes well ingrained in Filipino culture are sound foundation for success anywhere in the world. These attributes include good work ethic, friendly disposition and sense of community. He thus advises aspiring Filipino authors to take advantage of these attributes, coupled with the proficiency in the use of English language and the advent of the Internet.

“My advice would be to leverage these abilities, along with some talent to an international audience.

In my view, there are many talented individuals in the Philippines who can make a huge impact in the international scene. There are a lot of exciting possibilities for musicians, writers, filmmakers, fashion designers, IT professionals and educators. In my view, practically all professionals in the Philippines can find success overseas.

The key would be to find creative avenues to tap into an international audience. The Internet and various supporting digital platforms have made this process much easier than in the past,” he says.

“Filipino authors are very talented.

I have very high regard for all of them.

I really wish Filipino authors, artists and professionals get to showcase their work to a broader international audience. For authors, I would suggest making an effort to reach out to international publishers. The hardest part is getting the first book published. It gets easier once you’ve built a name for yourself. It is not a bad idea for Filipino authors looking to get started in the international scene to partner with an established author as a way to start building their international reputation. Being a co-author, getting published in international journals or contributing in book chapters would be a great way to start,” he says.

Muñoz, however, says the path to success would not be easy.

“Contrar y to what some might think, the path I’ve taken was not actually easy. Prior to getting my first international job, I was turned down numerous times. Before I got my first book published, my book proposal was rejected by several publishers. In fact, I got sick and tired of being rejected that I decided to complete the entire manuscript without having a committed publisher,” he says, referring to his first book titled ‘Land of My Birth’, a socio-political critique of the Philippines.

Book reviewers called it the contemporar y version of Jose Rizal’s Noli Me Tangere. The book eventually got published and led to Muñoz receiving a literary award called the Calatagan Award from the Philippine American Artists and Writers Association in 2005.

“I guess the message I want to share is that hard work, persistence, confidence and willingness to take risk can work out well especially when one is looking to break into the international scene,” he says.

Muñoz plans to wrap up the six book projects he is working on which are in various stages of completion and expects to have them published by 2018. He has been getting calls and invitations from major international publishers requesting for more book projects.

“Unfortunately, there are only so many hours in a day. I juggle my time between family, teaching, writing and my international business consulting practice. My future plan is to stay on course and continue making an impact on the world through my teaching, books and consulting practice. Down the road, I would love to serve as coach and mentor to talented Filipinos and Filipinas and help them succeed internationally,” he says.

Muñoz shares his own quote and words of inspiration to Filipinos who dream of succeeding in the global stage. “Where you come from, what you’ve done, and where you’re at – provide little bearing on what you can become,” says Muñoz.

Roderick T. dela Cruz

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NEW ZEALAND WANTS MORE FILIPINO VISITORS

EW Zealand, one of the world’s premium destinations, wants to attract more tourists from the Philippines in what can be viewed as an international recognition of the Filipinos’ rising spending force.

“The Philippines is a new key source market for us,” Steven Dixon, regional manager for South Asia and Southeast Asia of Tourism New Zealand, tells journalists at Sofitel Philippine Plaza Hotel in Pasay City.

Dixon says Tourism New Zealand, the nation’s tourism promotion agency, decided to hold Kiwi Link for the first time in the Philippines on Oct. 2 to Oct. 4 to connect Filipino travel trade communities with New Zealand tourism operators and suppliers.

Southeast Asia, including the Philippines, is an emerging market for New Zealand with significant growth predicted in the future.

“The Philippines has grown as an interesting emerging market for Tourism New Zealand. For the year ending August 2017 alone, more than 22,780 Filipinos visited New Zealand, with those on holiday staying an average of 13.7 days—the highest across our South and Southeast Asian markets,” Dixon says in a separate statement.

The increase in visitor arrivals from the Philippines is attributed to an emerging middle class and improved airline connectivity, making the Philippines an interesting market. New Zealand is considered a premium destination in the Philippines as the cost of the tour packages is one of the highest among the different long-haul destinations.

Dixon says tourism is now the biggest export generator in New Zealand and an important contributor to its economy. International and domestic tourism contributed $34.7 billion to its economy in the fiscal year ending March 2017. Of the total figure, foreign tourists accounted for $14.5 billion.

Tourism New Zealand now seeks to strengthen tourism ties between New Zealand and the Philippines through Kiwi Link’s different programs and other key initiatives. Kiwi, which was derived from a native flightless bird, is a nickname used internationally for people from New Zealand.

Dixon says last year, some 3.6 million foreign tourists visited New Zealand, a country of 4.4 million Kiwis, who are mostly of European descent. Maori represents 14.6 percent of the country’s population, while 9.2 percent are Asians. The rest are other Pacific islanders.

Auckland and Wellington are the two largest cities located in the North Island, where three quarters of Kiwis live.

Dixon says Kiwi Link in Manila sought to strengthen travel trade ties between the two countries. He says the event demonstrates Tourism New Zealand’s commitment to the growing Philippine market for holiday tourism and business events.

“With the upcoming launch of Philippine Airlines’ non-stop, three-times a week service from Manila to Auckland in December 2017, we’re expecting a further increase in visitor numbers from the Philippines. This new service will reduce the flight time between Manila and Auckland to 10 hours and is expected to increase seat capacity by 21 percent,” he says.

“We are confident Kiwi Link Manila will help attract more high-calibre visitors from the Philippines to New Zealand,” says Dixon.

Kiwi Link Manila hosted 39 tour operators from Singapore, Jakarta, Indonesia and the

Steven Dixon, regional manager for South Asia and Southeast Asia of Tourism New Zealand

Philippines and 31 from New Zealand consisting of accommodation, inbound operators and experience travel operators.

“New Zealand is a destination where you can experience so much, so many different types of activities—all amazing, and very diverse landscapes—all within a short span of time.

You will never be out of experience,” says Dixon, referring to experience tours of national parks, film locations of the Hobbit and Lord of the Rings, wine regions, glaciers, mountain resorts, rainforests and islands.

Dixon says Kiwis are very welcoming of foreign tourists. “We had a survey recently, and it is almost 100 percent satisfaction for tourists out of New Zealand. It is a very safe destination. It is very friendly. It is a part of what we do in New Zealand.

You will be greeted with a smile just like you have a great smile here in the Philippines,” says Dixon.

Dixon says many Filipinos now want to go to New Zealand. “That is a part of why we think that it is really, really an attractive market,” he says.

“The one thing that we want Filipinos to understand is the ease of getting around when you are in New Zealand. It is very easy to go from one location to another and experience is really different in diverse landscape in a short space of time. You can be in our biggest city, then you

can take a quick flight to the bottom of New Zealand and you can be among the glaciers. In the afternoon, you can experience natural rainforest.

It is incredibly easy to get around and it is safe and family-friendly as well. There are a lot of families coming to New Zealand,” says Dixon.

Dixon says while Filipinos need to apply for a visa to go to New Zealand, the process is easy and the approval rate is high. “We have one of the highest approval rates in this market. Our process is affordable fast and streamlined. You can do it online. From start to finish, it is smooth and fast,” he says.

He says arrivals in New Zealand from the Philippines increased 29 percent as of endAugust, a growth figure that is expected to continue in the coming years.

Dixon, however, says New Zealand is not a budget destination. “For a lot of people, it is an aspirational destination. It is not a destination that everybody can get into. We are a premium destination, but the type of experience you will have here you will never forget. People who come to New Zealand and go back home say a little part of New Zealand never leaves them. It is a premium destination, but you will be rewarded,” Dixon says. Roderick T. dela Cruz

PH COMPANIES ENCOURAGED TO PREPARE FOR DDOS ATTACKS AN EXECUTIVE of American technology company Neustar Inc. advises Philippine companies to prepare for the socalled distributed denial-of service or DDOS attack, a cyberattack where the perpetrator aims to consume network and computing resources connected to the internet, making the effected internet resources unavailable to the intended users.

“Worryingly DDoS attacks show no sign of slowing down, with new incidents making headline news almost daily. Major attacks within the Philippines include the DDoS attack on the Philippine government websites in July 2016, impacting government operations and more recently, the DDoS attack on the National Union of Journalist of the Philippines in January 2017, which took down the NUJP website,” says Robin Schmitt, general manager of Neustar in Asia-Pacific.

Typically, the attack is conducted by flooding the targeted resource with a huge number of requests to overload the network and computer systems. In a DDoS attack, the incoming traffic flooding originates from many different sources. This effectively makes it impossible to stop the attack simply by blocking a single source.

Attackers threaten an organization with a massive volumetric attack unless they pay a ransom.

“Companies need to realize that DDoS attacks are no longer ‘just an IT problem’. From IT, customer service to marketing, no business unit is safe from the effects of cyber-attack. When an attack hits, it reverberates throughout the enterprise, and when it is successful, it indiscriminately affects the bottom line,” Schmitt says in an email interview.

According to IDC, digital transformation of companies in the Philippines will see 25 percent of the top 1,000 companies have a majority of their business depend on the ability to create digitally enhanced products, services and experiences by 2020.

“However, the opportunity digital transformation affords also poses significant security challenges. Cybersecurity will increasingly be elevated to a tier-1 business priority. Enterprises must realize that in the world of cyber security, having the wrong solution or inadequate capabilities can be the difference between reading the news and making the news,” says Schmitt,

Robin Schmitt, general manager of Neustar in Asia-Pacific who served as chief operating officer of Bombora Technologies for five years, before it was acquired

by Neustar. Schmitt joined the Neustar team in August 2015.

According to Neustar Worldwide DDoS Attacks and Cyber Insights Research, DDoS attacks have dealt a serious blow to businesses in Asia-Pacific, with 33 percent of organizations reporting an average revenue loss of $250,000. “For the Philippines, this

number is expected to rise as commitments to expand the national LTE [long-term evolution] coverage coupled with the rising adoption of unsecured IoT [internet of things] devices present threat agents with a greater attack surface for more sophisticated hacking. It is crucial to highlight that the size, complexity and ferocity of DDoS attacks has been growing and will continue to grow,” says Schmitt.

Results of the recent Neustar Worldwide DDoS Attacks and Cyber Insights Research Report show that more than 80 percent of surveyed organizations globally have been attacked at least once in the previous 12 months, representing an increase of 15 percent since 2016. Furthermore, 85 percent of those attacked were hit more than once.

“Worryingly, despite knowing the threats, companies are still struggling to detect and respond to DDoS attacks effectively and efficiently. In APAC, 49 percent of organizations need over three hours to detect a DDoS attack and an extra three hours to respond to one. To bring this into perspective, ideally, companies should expect to identify and mitigate an attack in less than 10 minutes,” he says.

Schmitt says implementing solutions before a breach occurs is the best way to manage the risk.

“As the cyber security landscape is constantly evolving, solutions must also constantly adapt to anticipate attackers’ modus operandi,” he says.

“Selecting a solution that matches the level of risk is critical.

Implementing a solution that doesn’t provide adequate protection may lead to unforeseen losses when an attack occurs, while implementing an over-sized DDoS mitigation solution may be unnecessarily expensive. There are many different solutions on the market. It is advisable for companies to partner with an organization that provides the flexibility to fit a solution to the businesses technical environment and level of risk,” he says.

“With proper management and the right partners, businesses can protect their digital assets and avoid unnecessary financial and reputational loss,” says Schmitt.

Roderick T. dela Cruz

World

Cesar Barrioquinto, Editor / Jimbo Gulle, Issue Editor

ROHINGYA MILITANTS: MYANMAR CEASEFIRE TO END OCTOBER 9 YANGON, Myanmar—Rohingya militants whose attacks triggered an army crackdown in Myanmar’s Rakhine state unleashing a huge wave of refugees said Saturday their one-month ceasefire would end in two days, but added they were open to peace if the government reciprocated.

In a statement released through its Twitter account, the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) said its unilateral truce would end at midnight on October 9.

“The humanitarian pause was conducted to enable humanitarian actors to assess and respond to the humanitarian crisis in Arakan (Rakhine),” the statement said.

“If at any stage, the Burmese government is inclined to peace, then ARSA will welcome that inclination and reciprocate,” it said, using the former name for Myanmar.

It did not include any direct threats of new violence.

The armed group tipped northern Rakhine into crisis when it ambushed police posts on August 25.

The army’s reprisal has been so sweeping and savage that the United Nations says it likely amounts to ethnic cleansing of the Muslim minority, who have faced decades of persecution. AFP

SPAIN BRACES FOR MORE PROTESTS IN CATALONIA

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2017

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mst.daydesk@gmail.com

DEADLY ‘NATE’ BEARS DOWN ON MEXICO, US C ANCÚN, Mexico—Nate reached hurricane status as it bore down on popular Mexican beach resorts and headed for the United States’ Gulf Coast early Saturday after dumping heavy rains on Central America and leaving at least 28 people dead.

New Orleans, which was ravaged

by Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and left hundreds of dead, and other cities on the US Gulf coast were under a hurricane warning.

Louisiana, the state home to New Orleans, said President Donald Trump had quickly approved the release of federal aid to help mitigate the impact of the storm.

With the storm’s top winds swirling at 129 kilometers (80 miles) per hour some 240 miles northwest of the western tip of Cuba, the US National Hurricane Center (NHC) warned that in the United States, “the combination of a dangerous storm surge and the tide will cause normally dry areas near the coast to be flooded by rising waters moving inland from the shoreline.”

The water was expected to peak at up to 2.5 meters (eight feet) above ground in some areas.

Luis Felipe Puente, national coordinator of Civil Protection, recommended “avoiding aquatic, touristic and recreational activities” in Quintana Roo. After moving across the Gulf of Mexico, the storm was set to make landfall along the central US Gulf Coast late Saturday, the NHC said.

Authorities canceled school in seven Mexican coastal towns and declared an orange alert for the northern half of Quintana Roo state.

Swells expected to affect northwestern Caribbean land over the weekend “are likely to cause lifethreatening surf and rip current conditions,” according to US fore-

casters.

New Orleans issued a mandatory curfew for Saturday from 6:00 pm (2300 GMT), and mandatory and voluntary evacuation orders were issued for certain low-lying areas.

“Our greatest threat... is not necessarily rain, but strong winds and storm surge,” said New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu.

Unlike Hurricane Harvey, which dumped record amounts of rain while hovering over neighboring Texas for a week, fast-moving Nate was expected to quickly pass along a northerly path.

Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards warned that while Nate was forecast to be a weak hurricane, it could still cause unexpected damage.

“Anyone in low-lying areas... we are urging them to prepare now,” he said.

In the neighboring state of Mississippi, lines formed at gas stations in areas within the potential path of the storm.

Some offshore oil and gas rigs in the Gulf of Mexico were evacuated ahead of the storm’s advance.

Nate was still wreaking havoc in Central America, where heavy rains continued causing floods.

Authorities in El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras have declared a maximum or red alert.

On Thursday, intense rains forced thousands from their homes, uprooted trees, knocked out bridges and turned roads into rivers across a swath of Central America.

“We were drowning. Thank God (emergency workers) helped us.

The river swelled so much it swept away our house, our pigs, our chickens -- it swept away everything,” said Bonavide Velazquez, 60, who was evacuated from her home in southern Nicaragua.

Nicaragua bore 13 of the deaths, according to Vice President Rosario Murillo.

In Costa Rica, where a national emergency was declared, 10 people died, including a three-year-old girl, after they were hit by falling trees and mudslides. An alert was issued for people to be wary of crocodiles that might be roaming after rivers and estuaries flooded. AFP

MADRID, Spain—Spain braced for more protests Saturday despite tentative signs that the sides may be seeking to defuse the crisis after Madrid offered a first apology to Catalans injured by police during their outlawed independence vote.

Catalan leaders had threatened to declare independence unilaterally and Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy vowed to stop them, rejecting calls for mediation in a dispute that has drawn cries of concern even from Barcelona and Real Madrid footballers.

Spain’s deepest political crisis in decades has raised fears of further unrest in the northeastern region, a touristfriendly area of 7.5 million people that accounts for a fifth of Spain’s economy.

Opponents of secession have called for demonstrations around Spain and a major rally in Barcelona on Saturday.

Also Saturday, people who support dialogue to end the crisis plan to gather in a bid to pressure mayors nationwide.

The anonymous initiative, which spread across social media, seeks to promote talks using the slogan: “Spain is better than its leaders”.

“It’s the moment to come together to tell (our leaders) that they are incapable and irresponsible,” the group’s manifesto reads. The gathering will start from around midday (1000 GMT). AFP

ARMY TRAINING. Recruits undergo training at the headquarters of the Depot of the Nigerian Army in Zaria, Kaduna State in northcentral Nigeria on Thursday. The Nigerian army train recruits to tackle the terror threat of the Islamist group Boko Haram in North East Nigeria, as the Islamist insurgency began in 2009 and has killed at least 20,000 and forced more than 2.6 million from their homes. AFP

LEONARD COHEN’S POEMS TO BE PRINTED IN FINAL BOOK

IN AFTERMATH OF SHOOTING, LAS VEGAS SEEKS HEALING

NEW YORK—The final poems of Leonard Cohen, completed days before the legendary songwriter died, will be published in an anthology next year, his estate announced late Friday.

Entitled “The Flame,” the volume will include Cohen’s unpublished poems as well as his prose pieces and illustrations and lyrics to his three final albums.

Explaining the metaphor in the title, Robert Kory, who was Cohen’s manager, said that the Montreal-born artist had finished “The Flame” days before his death and it “reveals to all the intensity of his inner fire.”

“During the final months of his life, Leonard had a singular focus -- completing this book taken largely from his unpublished poems and selections from his notebooks,” Kory said in a statement.

“The flame and how our culture threatened its extinction was a central concern,” he said.

The book, which has US, Canadian and British publishers, will come out in October 2018.

Cohen died in November 2016 at age 82, just weeks after he released his last album, “You Want It Darker,” whose lyrics reflect heavily on death, spirituality and his place in the universe.

While he became best known for meditative tunes such as “Hallelujah” and “So Long, Marianne” -- as well as the quirkier “First We Take Manhattan” -- Cohen turned to music relatively late, in his 30s, after establishing a literary career. AFP

LAS VEGAS—Far from the Las Vegas Strip and its flashy hotels, a small healing park opened Friday in the north of Las Vegas, as communities shaken by Sunday’s horrific mass shooting join to grieve.

One of its creators, landscape architect Mark Hamalmann, said it is a “remembrance garden,” featuring 58 trees planted along a small paved walkway. In the middle, there is a large oak tree representing the “tree of life,” while American flags adorn a wooden fence.

“Everything here is donated by local companies, everyone here is a volunteer, and it’s just amazing how it’s come together,” Hamalmann, who oversaw the garden’s construction, told AFP. In the healing park, he explained, everyone is welcome to walk, sit and reflect on the benches, or leave messages on a wall of remembrance.

And there is little doubt healing is what Las Vegas needs.

Fifty-eight people died and nearly 500 were injured when 64-year-old Stephen Paddock opened fire on an outdoor country music festival -- an act that investigators are still at a loss to explain -- before taking his own life.

Since the shooting, “I can’t sleep. I think probably the adrenaline is still running and I can’t wrap my brain around what I saw,” said Dori McKendry, a driver for rideshare startup Lyft.

McKendry was parked in front of the Mandalay Bay hotel Sunday night when Paddock started shooting from his 32nd-floor room.

Admitting she currently has a “mental and emotional feeling of insanity,” McKendry said she has offered free rides to victims’ families to help process what happened.

Thomas Fadden, who survived what was the deadliest shooting in recent US history, said it was scary “not to know who your neighbor could be.”

Paddock, a retired accountant and high stakes gambler, lived quietly in the small town of Mesquite, Nevada, north of Las Vegas. His neighbors, his family and even his girlfriend said they had no clue about what he was about to do.

Several clinics in Las Vegas have organized counseling sessions for people struggling since the shooting -- including survivors, relatives or simply those suffering from anxiety in the wake of the atrocity. AFP

FOR FAMILY. A family performs a ceremonial offering to their relatives in North Korea, near the Demilitarized Zone at Imjingak on Wednesday. South Korea is observing the annual Chusok harvest festival--a week-long holiday during which families typically offer thanks and prayers to their ancestors. This came before reports said North Korea is preparing to test a long-range missile, which it believes can reach the west coast of the United States, a Russian lawmaker who just returned from Pyongyang was quoted as saying on Friday. AFP

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SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2017 Riera U. Mallari, Editor rumallari@thestandard.com.ph

Gadgets & Games

LENOVO CELEBRATES THINKPAD'S 25TH YEAR

ENOVO on Friday announced at an exclusive event at the Yamato Labs in Japan, the birthplace of ThinkPad, a limited-edition model to celebrate 25 years of design and engineering innovation.

The ThinkPad Anniversary Edition 25 is a modern incarnation of the classic design and includes iconic “retro” features such as a backlit 7-row ThinkPad Classic keyboard, dedicated volume buttons, multiple status LEDs and a multicolor logo.

The design concept was launched on June 25, 2015, using social media as a method to gather feedback and preferences from ThinkPad fans and loyalists from around the world. In addition to the classic features, the ThinkPad Anniversary Edition 25 is a thoroughly modern laptop. Powered by an Intel® Core™ i7-7500U processor with discrete NVIDIA GeForce 940MX graphics and a 14-inch full HD display with touch, the ThinkPad “Retro” performance is a far cry from the original 700C.

25 Years of Uncompromised Innovation

Designed by Richard Sapper and engineered in the Yamato Labs in Japan, the original ThinkPad 700C announced on October 5th 1992. Inspired by the traditional Japanese bento box, the 700C was the start of an amazing journey. In the space of a couple of months, it won more than three hundred awards and became a status symbol for presidents and CEO’s.

VIVO BOASTS OF FACE ID ACCESS FEATURE

ThinkPad, 130 million unit sales later, is an icon in the IT industry. It has helped explorers reach Earth’s remotest places, supported dozens of missions into space and facilitated countless businesses to grow. In fact, we have looked back over the years and collected a number of stories where ThinkPad has changed the world.

So, what makes ThinkPad so special?

“ThinkPad design creates a powerful and synergistic relationship between form and function. It balances sophisticated aesthetics, thoughtfully crafted user experiences and renowned engineering in order to deliver superior products,” said David Hill, former Chief Design Officer, Lenovo. “25 years after the introduction of the original 700C, the latest X1 Carbon is immediately recognizable as a ThinkPad.”

ThinkPad at 50 —What Next?

As technology has advanced with exponential speed, the designers and engineers behind ThinkPad have remained purpose-driven in their quest to continually reimagine mobile computing while preserving the original concept. From the ThinkPad 701C with the “butterfly” keyboard to the

PACKPRINTPLAS SLATED AT SMX AFTER its successful staging in the key cities of Cebu and Davao, PackPrintPlas Philippines 2017 will be concluding this year’s series with a bang as it celebrates its 25th anniversary in Manila.

The final installation for the year will be held on Oct. 12 to 14 at the SMX Convention Center Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City. The event is set to gather more than 700 brands and is expected to welcome over 20,000 visitors and trade buyers from all over the country.

“PackPrintPlas Philippines was one of the very first shows our company put together on its own and we’re very proud that is has now become one of the biggest and most anticipated expos in the country,” said Patrick Lawrence Tan, CEO of Global-Link MP Events International, Inc., organizers of the show. “Our goal has always been to connect manufacturers, suppliers, and service providers to the new clients. We are honored and at the same time humbled by their trust in us over the years as we slowly built on this vision to establish the show as a sourcing show that completes the entire supply chain for various other industries as well. Now that thousands of buyers visit the PackPrintPlas Philippines expo each year, we can only strive to do better. This year’s event is surely going to be one to remember as we mark this very important milestone. Biggest ever!”

This year’s list includes: Starlinger & Co., Zhejing Wankai Package Co., Ltd., Shandong Tongjia Machinery Co. Ltd., Matila Industrial Co. Ltd., Fu Chun Shin Machinery Manufacture Co. Ltd., Yo Den Enterprises Co. Ltd., and the European Plastic Joint Stock Company, to name a few. There will be over 150 foreign companies exhibiting in the Philippines for the first time coming from Austria, China, Japan, Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, Germany and many more.

The ThinkPad Anniversary Edition 25 is a modern incarnation of the classic design.

2-in-1 convertible X1 Yoga with “rise and fall” keyboard, the relentless quest for perfection has made ThinkPad the number one business laptop of all time. Over the next twenty-five years, ThinkPad will continue to develop, innovate and deliver the technologies of tomorrow. Arimasa Naitoh, former head of the Yamato Labs and affectionately known as the father of ThinkPad, firmly believes that

the future is in safe hands.

“From the original 700C to the latest X1 Series, ThinkPad has proved it can enable business transformation and offer customers uncompromised mobility,” he says. “Our team of engineers imagine a future world where ThinkPad creates new segments and further enrichens user experiences as technology becomes more embedded in our lives.”

STARMOBILE BACKS ’MILLENNIORS‘ FILIPINO tech brand Starmobile partnered with Smart Communications for its barangay technology education program for “millenniors.”

A play on the words “millennials”, who are known to be tech savvy, and “seniors,” the program aims to teach technology to the elderly.

For many of them, taking selfies, posting on Facebook, and chatting over Messenger are not just fun—these activities keep them in touch with their children and grandchildren, many of whom they don’t always get to see or speak with.

The session, launched in partnership with Adamson University, taught the seniors about the basics of smartphones and mobile data, and helped them join Facebook.

Members of Smart’s Public Affairs team led the lecture, while student-volunteers from Adamson University’s Computer Science department and Adamson’s Integrated Community Extension Services sat with the elders to assist them in navigating their smartphones.

They used Starmobile devices, including PLAY and UP series smartphones which are

The session, launched in partnership with Adamson University, taught the seniors about the basics of smartphones

designed for first-time users and large-screen ENGAGE tablets for users who prefer larger fonts and images.

Learn more about Starmobile by visiting nearest Starmobile Store in your area or check out the official Starmobile website at starmobile.com.ph or the official Starmobile Facebook Page at facebook.com/ starmobilephones.

Five Awesome Years Established in 2011, Starmobile is the mobile devices division of Star Telecom Alliance Resources Inc. (STAR Inc.). It is founded by telco industry experts with ex-

ZOOKAL DEMOCRATIZES EDUCATION ZOOKAL, the most popular education app in the country with over 200,000 users, has released its latest version in the App Store and Google play.

Leveraging its strong team of 100+ experienced teachers and topic experts, Zookal has doubled its original content to 40,000 questions and full solutions; covering the most popular school, college and licensure tests. The update comes with an impressive new design and most importantly personalized learning features to enhance the education experience for all students using the app.

The app’s effectiveness lies in the tailored learning approach; catering to the different learning speeds and styles of each individual user. This is achieved by providing instant comprehensive feedback to the user after each question is attempted. These solutions have been individually hand-

crafted by topic experts and highly experienced teachers, allowing students to quickly build confidence and consolidate their learning with full solutions and explanations.

Studies show that immediate feedback can help in enhancing comprehension.

“Using Zookal’s app allows me to seamlessly answer questions and have a an enhanced learning experience through understanding the topic areas better with full explanations – almost as if a teacher was sitting with me,” said Vana Sabanal, college student.

“I resorted to review materials online when I planned to take the Civil Service exams and that’s when I found Zookal. I was glad that I discovered the test questions there because I only had less than a week to review.

After passing the test, I am now one step closer to my long term goal. Zookal gave me an advantage despite the limited time

I had and it saved me a lot of money as well because it’s free,” added Regyn Avena, Civil Service Exam passer Zookal’s team is highly excited about the potential to impact the futures of millions of students, despite already achieving over 200,000 downloads to date.

“The Zookal app aims to prepare students and young professionals for the exams that will define the course of their careers in the next five or ten years. With questions carefully created and curated by teachers and practitioners of various fields, we offer the best app-based reviewers in the world,” said Maggie Del Valle, Zookal’s Head of Content.

“We are really excited about Zookal 2.0 and its newest features. Our goal is to equitize education by providing high quality content through our digital platforms. We put into great consideration the reviews we got from our users in our pre-

tensive experience in retail and product development.

Since it first offered Android devices, Starmobile has officially become the winningest Philippine smartphone brand with a slew of innovation awards from reputable media outfits. The company’s flagship KNIGHT series, has won top awards since 2013—a feat that has not been replicated by any local device company.

Learn more about Starmobile and its line of smartphones and tablets by visiting www.starmobile.com.ph or log on to facebook.com/starmobilephones.

IF YOU ask people what makes a smartphone great, they would say it is the high technology features that makes a smartphone “smart”.

Vivo V7+, in this regard, never disappoints.

Boasting of a 24MP front-facing camera—an industry-first—with LED flash and smart photography algorithms provides for a clear-cut, crisp, and natural-looking photo, and a revolutionary 5.99” all-screen display with its 84.4 percent screen to body ratio, providing a more exciting and enhanced game and visual experience, the V7+ offers far impressive features than most of its counterparts.

But what people are mostly raving about this newest Vivo offering is the Face ID feature. Putting the emphasis in “smart” in smartphone, the Face ID feature enables the V7+ to “wake up” with the user simply picking up the phone, raising it in portrait mode to unlock it and it is ready to go. True to the wonders of future technology, Vivo offers it in the now with the Face ID feature, a surely-safe security access to one’s smartphone, where phone unlocks with mere facial recognition.

Vivo launched the V7+ in a grand unveiling last September 20 at the Marriott Hotel in Manila. Backed by hotshots Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla plus R&B sweetheart Julie Anne San Jose along with other big stars that make up the Vivo Family such as the likes of PBB Teen Big Winner Maymay Entrata, young matinee idol Inigo Pascual, teen idols Boyband PH, soul diva KZ Tandingan, and teen sweetheart Andrea Brillantes, among others, Vivo proves to be a brand that even huge celebrity influencers trust.

The V7+, with its impressive, thumbprint features, is priced at only P17,990. Available in Matte Black and Champagne Gold—perfect shades for the hippest crowd.

The Vivo V7+ is selling nationwide and is available at Lazada, Argomall and all Vivo concept stores and kiosks.

For inquiries about Vivo, visit the Vivo website at www.vivo.com/ph or check out their Facebook (https:// www.facebook.com/VivoPhil), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/ vivophil/), and Twitter (https://twitter. com/vivo_phil) accounts.

SAMSUNG UNVEILS THE FRAME

vious version and made sure that wereflect the improvements on the new one,” said Karla Kay Sarno, Zookal’s Head of Operations.

The new version of the Zookal app is now available for update in Apple Store and Google Play store:

THROUGH the years, Samsung has se- a customizable work of art where you can cured its place as the leader in home enter- freely curate your favourite artwork and tainment by pioneering technologies that photos, transforming the room into a more have revolutionized the way consumers vibrant and personalized environment.

Through its Art Mode feature, Saminteract with their television sets. In May, sung The Frame can the brand made display any piece headlines when it from the Samsung launched the SamCollection, a built-in sung QLED TV that library of over 100 promises to deexclusive works by liver superior color renowned global and image qualartists commisity. But just when sioned and handeveryone thought selected by the tech TVs couldn’t get giant. With options any more groundin 10 different catbreaking, Samegories–wildlife, sung shook things landscapes, drawup yet again with ings, digital art, the launch of The still life and more– Frame, an innovaThe Frame is an innovative concept there’s something tive concept that that merges world class-art and design for every unique merges world with award-winning technology. preference. If these class-art and design with its award-winning technology. are not enough, The Frame has an Art Samsung The Frame breathes new life to Store for an unlimited access to a plethora home design and gives purpose and mean- of collections. You can also opt to upload ing to TV, 24 hours a day. When it is powered your personal images, and customize its on, The Frame offers premium picture qual- display with a variety of layouts and filters ity. Meanwhile, when not in use, it becomes using your smartphone.

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SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2017

Desiree Carlos, Editor

daycarlos28@yahoo.com

Pets

P

ETS make us happy with PET TALES their unconditional love

BY DESIREE CARLOS and loyalty. They bring so much joy in our lives just by their mere presence. They also calm us when we are stressed. They comfort us when we are sick or sad.

Because we want them to stay with us for many years, we do our best to give them proper care. We give them nutritious food, and we walk them because we know they need exercise.

In this sense, they make us healthy too, observed Mr. Rollie Estabillo, publisher of Manila Standard, during the Pets' Day Out last Sunday at the Planas Garden inside the Quezon City Memorial Circle.

When we walk them, Mr. Estabillo said, we get to exercise too and the blood in our bodies circulates better because of this.

When we play with them, our minds are stimulated as well.

When we bring them to parks with lots of trees or the beach for them to breathe fresh air, or to any nature trips, we too get to breathe fresh air and calm our minds.

Manila Standard, in its desire to educate pet owners on proper care of pets and to promote compassion towards animals, launched its Pet Section called simply SUNDAY PETS during the event.

SUNDAY PETS will feature proper care of dogs, cats and other pets from birth to old age to hopefully prevent diseases, share tips on proper care during illnesses, the special bond between pets and owners, the many ways animals have helped humans from overcoming anxiety attacks to even saving them from accidents, among others.

"Our pets are like ur kids. Let us take good care of them," Mr. Estabillo said.

At least 236 pet owners joined the event . Their P30 entrance fee will go to 67 rescued dogs and cats of Save Animals of Love and lIght (Save ALL), an animal welfare group, which is Ma-

nila Standard's way of helping animals in need.

Last Sunday's Pets Day OUT was filled with fun and surprises, thanks to Royal Canin Philippines (RCP) , Ms. Stephanie Calderon and Clark Santos of RCP, Sha Sha Veterinary Clinic of Ms. Fe Montano, Dr. Anthony Prado Basa, Dr. Vanessa Ong, Ms. Katrina Costales of Fercos Marketins, St. Roche, and Fur Magic.

Thank you to Mayor Herbert Bautista and the Quezon City government for the venue and ambulance.

Standard made sure that both pets and owners had fun: pets and owners danced on stage, and both owners and pets had food available on tables where sellers lined up their goods.

Thank you to the many entrepreneurs for the fantastic items and the delicious food sold at very reasonable prices.

The pets were also blessed by Father Edwin.

Thank you to Mr. Randy Caluag, digital editor, who hosted the event. There was no dull moment indeed, only reasons to smile or laugh.

With Sunday's event, Manila Standard achieved its goal to promote responsible pet ownership and urge more people to be kind and loving to animals.

Thank you to Mr. Estabillo, Ms. Annie Grefal, officer-in-charge for operations, and Ms. Paula Marie Reynoso and other members of the advertising department for making this event possible to help the rescued dogs and cats.

Truly, Manila Standard believes all dogs, cats and other pets deserve to be treated well. After all, we are all created by a Higher Being or our God. And God loves us all.

Have a great Sunday, everyone!

Namaste.

Scan this icon to view the PDF

PETS'

DAY OUT

Dogs playing at the pets' playground designed and made by artist Paco Pili in coordination with Nicole Benedito

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Young Life

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2017 Isah V. Red, Editor Bernadette Lunas, Issue Editor isahred@gmail.com.ph

4 WAYS TO CARE FOR YOUR BONES IF YOU think you only need to worry about your bone health when you’re older, then you’re wrong.

“Bones may slowly weaken as early as age 25,” says Dr. Nicky Montoya.

“That’s why it is essential to protect your bones when you’re young.”

The medical expert lists down four simple ways young individuals can do to ensure their bones will be able to support them in the years ahead.

YOUNG LIFE’S

BEST DRESSED CELEBRITIES AT THE STAR MAGIC BALL 2017

By Daniel Reyes

K

APAMILYA stars once again stunned the crowd in their jawdropping gowns and dapper suits at the recent Star Magic Ball.

Check our list of three women and three men who stood out on the dazzling red carpet. (Photos from @starmagicphils) Pia Wurtzbach

Pia has been a fashion icon ever since she won the Miss Universe title, and dominating red carpets has been a usual activity for her.

What’s great about her look is that her personality—strong and bold—emanated from her black sheer crystallized embroidered lace dress by Ezra Couture; her bob cut hairstyle perfectly complemented the look by emphasizing her clavicle.

Sue Ramirez

Work out regularly

Including high-impact exercises, such as walking, running, jogging, and dancing, in your daily routine can significantly strengthen your bones.

The stress these exercises put on your bones is required to support your weight. Muscle strengthening activities like lifting weights also make your bones work harder than usual.

Listen to your body and go slow

But while exercising is important, Dr. Montoya suggests against pushing yourself too hard. Workouts that require you to bend forward may increase the risk of compressing a bone in your spine. Ask a trainer or physical therapist to help modify exercises for you.

Dominic Roque

This modern take on a no-lapel suit is not an easy look to pull-off, in fact, not everyone can wear it. However, Dominic’s minimalist take accentuated with a polka dot scarf made it look stylishly effortless. The originality of Dominic’s style made him part of our best dressed list.

Enrique Gil

Everything that Sue wore—dress and accessories—were flawless. Her drop-earrings suited her round face and somehow made her neck look longer.

Her custom Francis Libiran gown flattered her perfectly through the illusions of the cutouts, making her appear to have a nearly perfect hourglassshaped body.

Some people think that classic is boring, when in fact it is sexy.

Enrique’s Balenciaga tuxedo with a satin stripe on the side of his trousers is a perfect example of classic meets contemporary. The mix of textures between velvet and satin also made his overall look en vogue.

Maymay Entrata

Alejandro Laurel

For a first timer at the annual glitzy ball, the PBB Lucky 7 winner did not disappoint in her red carpet debut. She wowed everyone by wearing a custom Mark Bumgarner white ball gown embellished with pearls which made a lovely contrast with her long, jet black, slicked back hairstyle.

Denise Laurel’s 6-year-old son, Alejandro, is still a boy and may not know much about fashion, but he knows how to make an entrance like a debonair young man that he is. It is undeniable that he looks dapper in his Rajo Laurel’s suit worn with a white shawl, channeling his inner suave like the Beckhams. It looks like we now have a local version of Romeo Beckham.

Quit smoking

Smoking has a number of adverse effects on bones, for one, it makes it difficult for the body to absorb calcium; cigarette has nicotine and it releases free radicals, which kills osteoblasts, cells responsible for bone growth; and women who smoke produce less estrogen, a hormone that helps regulate bone mass and strength.

Eat healthy

Eat food rich in antioxidants like oranges, nuts, and sardines. Drink milk and take Vitamin D supplements.

Bright-colored fruits and vegetables are also recommended to help build and preserve bone mass.

IN SUPPORT OF CHILDREN WITH AUTISM

AUTISM Spectrum Disorder or ASD affects 70 million people—1.2 million of whom are Filipinos, yet the discussion about it is lacking.

To help raise awareness and promote solution for the needs of individuals affected by the disorder, Kiehl’s Philippines partners with Gerald Anderson and Candy Pangilinan in support of Autism Society of the Philippines to establish a scholarship fund for therapies needed by children with autism.

The two personalities share their stories and first-hand experience with autism, in a bid to remove the stigma and promote solutions.

Gerald’s Angel Dog Program trains therapy dogs, onto which children with autism can latch when they are scared or uncomfortable.

Candy, meanwhile, is a mother to a

child with autism. The actor has always been an active advocate of early diagnosis and intervention. She also serves as a key resource and adviser to many mothers raising children with the disorder, in fact, she recently released her book, entitled Mommy Dear: Our Special Love, which chronicles her experience with her son, Quentin, starting from her pregnancy up until today.

Aside from partnering with Gerald and Candy, Kiehl’s Philippines donated a portion of the proceeds from the sale of the Matthew McConaughey-designed Limited Edition Ultra Facial Cream (P3,350 for 125ml) to Autism Society of the Philippines.

The local partnership is in line with Kiehl’s global collaboration with Autism Speaks, which receives all proceeds of the Limited Edition Ultra Facial Cream.

Matthew McConaughey designed the Kiehl's Limited Edition Ultra Facial Cream in support of Autism Speaks

Showbiz

EYE CANDY

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2017

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Isah V. Red, Editor / Nickie Wang, Issue Editor isahred@gmail.com

RISING STAR.

Former "Pinoy Boyband Superstar" contender and showbiz scion Tony Labrusca is charming his way into the televiewers' hearts

RAIN TO PERFORM IN MARAWI

BENEFIT CONCERT

Tony Labrusca as the half-human, halfwerewolf Jake Rodriguez in "La Luna Sangre"

ROOKIE STARS’ ALPHA MALE

By Sundy Locus

L

EADING the pack of fresh stars in showbiz today is a tall, handsome, and talented young actor. His name is Tony Labrusca.

We all know him as Jake from La Luna Sangre, the hottie werewolf friend of Malia (Kathryn Bernardo) who is stuck in an unrequited love with her. Prior to his appearance in the primetime fantasy drama, his name immediately became a trending topic as fangirls started swooning over his character’s undeniable charm.

But behind his eye-candy looks and commendable acting, Tony Labrusca proved to be a filial son, a multitalented artist and a young blood that is ready to take over the limelight.

Before his big break in the top-rating fantasy series, Tony started gracing the small screen with his various projects including the viral hugot commercial Tuloy Pa Rin with ex-PBB housemates Ellise Joson and McCoy de Leon.

He also conquered the stage of Pinoy Boyband Superstar as one of the favorite contenders to win.

Though luck wasn’t on his side during his stints in the talent reality show, he still left a mark as one of its most promising talents. The show jump started his path as a recording artist. He recently released his debut single “Tanging Ikaw,” which he composed in collaboration with Urie Tesorio and Bryan Lotho. Callalily frontman Kean Cipriano directed

the music video for the single, which has now amassed 300,000 views on YouTube.

More than acting, Tony shares more of the things he’s passionate about.

Outside of showbiz, the 22-year-old hottie leads an active lifestyle. He is very athletic and into gymnastics. The actor has been training hard for the sport for numerous years. Also, Tony is a great swimmer (hence earning the moniker, Sharky).

Tony is also one of the most talked about celebrity scions in town. He is the son of actor Boom Labrusca and former Kulay member, Angel Jones.

He was born in Houston, Texas, United States but grew up in Los Angeles, California, with his mother, step-father and a sister. When he was 9, his family moved to Vancouver, Canada, where he lived a normal life.

He even became a barber during his teenage years.

While challenges are inevitable especially for rising stars, Tony is more than ready to face them. Case in point, after receiving a flood of hateful comments from KathNiel fans, he decided to make an aggressive stance against bullying and showed everyone that they can’t just mess with an alpha male like him.

The young actor with his fellow contenders in the talent reality show "Pinoy Boyband Superstar"

GABBI GARCIA

Hallyu star Rain is headlining a benefit concert along with some local music stars

SEVEN years since he headlined a concert with U-Kiss and Christian Bautista, K-Pop superstar Rain is returning to Manila to be part of Rise 2 Shine Benefit Concert on Nov. 3 at the Araneta Coliseum.

The concert is for the benefit of Make Your Nanay Proud Foundation and Ko-Ph World Foundation for Korean-Filipino children and families.

Also, the Rise 2 Shine Benefit Concert is for the victims of Marawi, a war-stricken city in the southern region where there has been an ongoing armed conflict between the Philippine government troops and affiliated militants of the ISIS. The Hallyu star will be joined by local acts including Sam Concepcion, Val John, Kris Lawrence, Jay-R, Isabelle De Leon, Dasuri Choi, Salbakuta, Jin Ho Bae, Krissha Viaje, and Cursebox, for a night of festivities and charitable giving.

Filipinos first saw the K-Pop idol as Justin in the Philippine airing of the KBS’s drama Full House in 2004. The drama was immensely popular in the archipelago, reaching a peak viewership rating of over 42 percent. In 2009, a local TV network even remade the romantic-comedy drama.

In 2008, Rain (or Jung Ji-hoon in real life) made his Hollywood debut in the film Speed Racer and starred in Ninja Assassin (2009), the latter of which made him the first Korean to win an MTV award.

Then in 2015, Rain set up his own agency, R.A.I.N. Company, which along with “Gangnam Style” singer Psy, produced his latest single, “The Best Present.”

His last album was “Rain Effect” released in January 2014 that contained 10 tracks including the lead songs “30 Sexy” and “La Song.”

The singer and actor is returning to TV reality show as host of The Unit, an idol rebooting project similar to Produce 101, which will air starting on Oct. 28.

He is also expecting his first child Kim Tae Hee, whom he married in Seoul early this year.

TO RECORD HER OWN ALBUM

Gabbi Garcia onstage in "Playlist," an online concert produced in 2016

KAPUSO star Gabbi Garcia has been posting song covers on Instagram, including OPM favorite “Hanggang Kailan Kita Mahihintay”

by Paolo Valenciano, “Roses” by the Chainsmokers, “Valerie” by Amy Winehouse, and “Can’t Help Falling In Love.”

With her trending rendition of popular songs on the social media app, fans are asking if she has any plans to record her own album since it’s obvious that she has a talent in singing apart from being able to play the guitar. She even sang Encantadia’s theme song entitled “Mahihintay Sa’yo.”

The 18-year-old actress has been honest about her love for music and how it’s neck and neck with acting.

That considered, she is thrilled with the overwhelming feedback from netizens and she hopes to have more opportunities to share her passion.

In previous interviews, Gabbi said that it’s actually her dream to be a singer and record her own music one day.

Now, Gabbi is finally turning a dream into reality and she’s got her fans excited with this latest development in her career.

On Instagram, Gabbi shared teaser photos of her first single where she’s seen sitting in a diner, sipping on a milkshake, with the over-all look giving out a vintage vibe. In the caption she wrote, “first single.”

The single will have its official launch on Oct. 23.

The actor and singer performing onstage during a recent concert

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SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2017

Desiree Carlos, Editor

daycarlos28@yahoo.com

Pets MY FURRY BESTIE THIS corner will feature pets of animal lovers every week. We hope new owners and those thinking of getting a pet will be encouraged to be responsible “furparents” through these features. We also hope more people will be moved to be kind to animals when they read about the great relationship that can be created between humans and animals.

For contributions, please email to daycarlos28@yahoo.com and put My Furry Bestie as subject.

Pet blessing by Father Edwin

When dogs do a meet-up

Ms. Annie Grefal and her furbaby

This aspin, a "resident" of Planas Garden, welcomed all the animals with a kiss.

Even human babies loved the dogs' playground.

Abegail with Popoy and Pippa

Whisky, a mix of siberian husky and sheepdog, was awarded Pet of the Day.

ORANGE, a two-year-old pusang Pinoy or puspin, was adopted by MIMI, a male rescued cat of Anipilif Corral-Canaling . Orange arrived at their place and surprisingly, Mimi allowed Orange to eat from her bowl and sleep in her “territory.”

They actually often sleep together.

Orange loves to sleep, enjoys cuddles and cat massages, and is a terrific pest buster, she says.

Mimi is a stray a cat who she found in a Maynilad Treatment Facility Plant.

MOCHA, 3, is spoiled and a bit bratty, owner Mabs Pe Calumbiran says. But she is also the sweetest cat, she adds.

"I'm a better furmom because of her, had several 'firsts' with her, and she's the reason why I'm always in a hurry to come home,” Mabs says.

Mr. Rollie Estabillo with writer Desiree Carlos

JP Untalasco Esparza and his beloved pet

Emcee Randy Caluag, digital editor of Manila Standard, kept the day-long pawty upbeat and simply fun.

POTATO was rescued by Adabel Panotes when she was a kitten. Potato's previous owner heartlessly threw her on the roof of his neighbor’s house.

Adabel took her in and she is now 4 years old.

Adabel says: "Potato always loves to play with her favorite tennis ball. She always chases it until she gets tired and falls asleep."

Dr. Anthony Prado Basa of Sha Sha Veterinary clinic administers anti-rabies shots for free.