Manila Standard - 2017 December 10 - Sunday

CHURCH LEADS CALL FOR END TO KILLINGS

By Vito Barcelo VOL. XXXI • NO. 296 • 3 SECTIONS 16 PAGES • P18 • SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2017 • www.manilastandard.net • editorial@manilastandard.net

CATHOLIC church leaders and human rights advocates called on the government to respect life and stop the “extra judicial killings” in celebration of the International Human rights Day today.

(Sunday Dec. 10).

Caloocan Bishop Emeritus Deogracias Iñiguez led the launching of “Kilusang Artikulo 13” to call on the government to respect life and human rights.

In a statement, the retired bishop expressed fears that the revival of Philippine National Police role in war against illegal drugs would increase abuses and killings.

“One life lost is one life too many. This enraging ‘War on the Poor’ has claimed the lives of 13,000 people, including some 50 children and youth,” he said Iñiguez said that government leaders should not slaughter the Filipino or feed them to the wolves but help them.

“Everyone deserves due process, even the most ruthless of criminals,” the bishop said and raised fear that the government’s termination of the peace process with the communists would increase the death toll of the deadly anti-illegal drug campaign.

DOC TO TESTIFY IN DENGUE VACCINE MESS

PARADE OF GIANTS. New York- inspired Christmas Parade features 20 ft. balloons and floats seen making their way through the crowd of spectators along Mckinley Hill in Taguig City. Manny Palmero

MARAWI LIBERATORS SURVIVE AMBUSH A

By Francisco Tuyay

T LEAST seven Marine troopers, including a middle-grade officer who fought for the liberation of Marawi City and a policeman, were wounded in three roadside blasts that took place at the outskirts of Maguindanao late Friday night until early dawn Saturday.

Capt. Arvin Encinas, spokesman of the 6th Infantry Division, said the marine troopers belonging to the 5th Marine Battalion Landing Team (MBLT) were traveling along the highway in Barangay Mirab in North Upi when the incident occurred.

Initial reports identified the

wounded as Major Romulo Ducay, Corporals Arnel Jiun, Oliver Albo and Ryan Cabual, Private First Class Johnny Panday and Gerwin Perez.

Encinas said the marine soldiers were reinforcing the beleaguered policemen of the 1st Maneuver Platoon of the Provincial Public Safety

Company in Maguindanao who were attacked by an armed group.

The attack resulted in a firefight between the policemen and the armed group. A policeman was wounded in the gunfight.

Ten minutes later while the fighting was going on, an explosion was heard in Nuro Bridge in Barangay Nuro.

Encinas said the marines immediately responded to the site of the encounter but the armed group had already retreated.

The armed group apparently left a roadside bomb, which hit the Marines as they were about to return to their headquarters.

“The Marines did not encounter the armed group. They were on

their way back to their headquarters when they encountered the roadside blast,” Encinas said.

The wounded marines were rushed to the Army’s Camp Siongco Hospital in Datu Odin Sinsuat for treatment.

Encinas said they could not provide details as to the affiliation of the attackers, but suspected that they were either members of the New People’s Army or the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters.

Sr. Supt. Agustin Tello, police director of Maguindanao, said they are investigating the incident in coordination with local officials in North Upi who could help identify the attackers.

HOUSE WAITS FOR PALACE MOVE ON MARTIAL LAW

By Maricel V. Cruz THE House of Representatives will come out with its stand on the proposed martial law extension in Mindanao before the Christmas break, Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez said on Saturday.

Alvarez, who hails from Mindanao, said the House would wait for President Rodrigo Duterte’s formal request to Congress whether to extend or not to extend martial law beyond Dec. 31, 2017.

“The Palace has to communicate with us within the week so that we can discuss it by next week whether it will be approved or not,” Alvarez told a radio interview.

The Palace’s move whether or not to extend military rule in Mindanao needs the concurrence through a joint session.

But Alvarez said lawmakers may not have enough time during the last session weeks of Congress from Dec. 11 to 13.

“That is difficult to do because all lawmakers have programmed themselves to go on vacation. This is Christmas, which is unlike other breaks wherein lawmakers can still be summoned. It is very difficult,” Alvarez said.

President Duterte declared martial law in Mindanao last May 23 after the ISIS-linked Maute terrorist group occupied Marawi City in Lanao del Sur. Turn to A2

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WILDFIRES IN L.A. Firefighters battle the Lilac fire in Bonsall, California on Dec. 7, 2017. Local emergency officials warned of powerful winds on Dec. 7 that will feed wildfires raging in Los Angeles, threatening multi-million dollar mansions with blazes that have already forced more than 200,000 people to flee. (Story on A6) AFP

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A DOCTOR who has been with the Department of Health since 1994 has agreed to testify in a Senate hearing into the dengue vaccine procurement controversy on Monday, the Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption said.

In a forum in Quezon City on Saturday, VACC legal counsel Atty. Ferdinand Topacio said the doctor, whom he refused to identify, will be a “treasure trove” of information on the issue when the anti-crime group presents the physician before the Senate committee on health and demography chaired by Senator JV Ejercito.

Topacio also reiterated the names of 11 other officials of the Health department who are supposedly involved in the government’s P3.5-billion deal to buy and distribute the Dengvaxia vaccine made by French pharmaceutical giant Sanofi Pasteur as the centerpiece of its dengue immunization program.

The development comes a day after former Health secretary Dr. Janette Garin admitted to meeting with officials of Sanofi Pasteur in Paris in 2015 to discuss the controversial vaccine.

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MILF SEEKS LIBYAN HELP IN PEACE GAB

By Sara Susanne D. Fabunan

MORO Islamic Liberation Front peace implementing panel chairman Mohagher Iqbal has asked Libyan Charge d’ Affaires Ahmed Eddeb to assume Malaysia’s role as peace facilitator, an envoy disclosed on Saturday.

While admitting that Iqbal approached him, Libyan Charge d’ Affaires Ahmed Eddeb said that the MILF should make a formal request so he can convey the matter to the Libyan government.

“We received a group from MILF that they want us to bring back our monitoring team. We are working on it,” Eddeb said.

“The MILF has to request us. We have to go through official channel to convey to our government,” he added.

In 1976, when Libya headed the Organization of Islamic Conference, it acted as peace mediator between the Philippines and the Moro National Liberation Front which were then led by Carmelo Barbero and Nur Misuari, respectively.

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DOC...

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The lawyer said the doctor had approached the VACC as early as last March, and then again in June, saying he had information on the dengue vaccine mess. The anti-crime group had checked the background and testimony of the doctor, Topacio added.

“We checked [him] out, he is what he said he was. After validating [his information], we brought it to the DOJ [Department of Justice] for investigation, but at that time it ran into dead ends because of conflicting testimonies, and contentious issues,” he said.

The VACC was tipped off about the truth of the doctor’s information when Sanofi itself admitted that the vaccine could cause adverse effects if administered to a child who has not yet contracted dengue, Topacio added.

He also named six present and former DOH undersecretaries who were involved in evaluating, procuring and administering Dengvaxia: Boy Gako, Vicente Belisario, Kenneth HartiganGo, Lilibeth David Gerry Bayugo and Carol Taino.

Topacio also named DOH Assistant Secretary Lyndon Lee Suy; Joyce Ducusin, officer-in-charge of the Expanded Program on Immunization; DOH Region IV director Rio Magpantay; DOH NCR director Ariel Valencia; and Philippine Children’s Medical Center executive director Julius Lecciones as part of the group of officials who would be implicated by the VACC doctor-witness.

The lawyer said he sent their names to Health Secretary Francisco Duque III in a bid to prevent these officials from being named to a task force the DOH is forming to investigate the issue.

“We warned Duque that he might make the mistake of naming these persons involved to the task force. It would ruin the credibility of the DOH if he did so, and embarrass them because these people will be mentioned on Monday,” Topacio said.

Duque, in a previous radio interview, said he has named Health Undersecretary Herminigildo Valle, head of the Office for Field Implementation and Management; Undersecretary Mario Villaverde, head of the Office for Health Regulation; Undersecretary Roger Tong-an, head of the Office for Health Service Development; and Undersecretary Eric Domingo to the task force.

The task force will also review the dengue immunization program, which has seen 830,000 public school students receive Dengvaxia in Metro Manila, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, and Cebu province but has since been stopped following Sanofi’s advisory.

Topacio alleged that Hartigan-Go, who was also once director-general of the Food and Drug Administration, became a top official of Zuellig Pharmaceutical—the distributor of Dengvaxia in the Philippines—after his retirement from the government regulatory arm.

“So there is a clear conflict of interest here. He facilitated FDA approval [for the vaccine] and he also gave it an exemption because it was not on the list of vaccines the government can legally procure,” said the lawyer, who also cited Bayugo and Lee Suy for “downplaying” the ill effects of the vaccine.

In a separate interview over dzBB radio, Lee Suy said he was open to any inquiry on the controversy, noting he was a “mere spokesperson” of the Health department for the immunization program.

“It was my responsibility to disseminate information on the program, including activities related not just to the dengue vaccine but on DOH activities as a whole,” he said.

The VACC and its doctor-witness also has to prove his involvement in procuring and evaluating Dengvaxia, Lee Suy added.

“Even I was surprised by my involvement in this issue. I guess that’s what happens—if you speak out, you will be part of the study or investigation, when I was just doing my job,” he added.

HOUSE...

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The initial martial law declaration was supposed to last only two months, but the President sought an extension in July despite the fact that Congress was in recess.

Alvarez earlier said he would want the martial law in Mindanao extended until 2022.

This developed as Negros Oriental Rep. Arnolfo Teves Jr. said he would abide by majority decision on the issue of martial law extension.

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NOKOR, U.N. SET STAGE FOR REGULAR MEETINGS

EOUL, South Korea—North Korea blamed American “nuclear blackmail” for soaring tensions over its weapons program following rare meetings with a senior United Nations official, but agreed to regular communication with the organization, state media said Saturday.

The UN’s Jeffrey Feltman arrived in Beijing Saturday after wrapping up a five-day visit to Pyongyang aimed at defusing the crisis, just a week after North Korea said it test-fired a new ballistic missile capable of reaching the United States.

His trip—the first by a UN diplomat of his rank since 2010—saw him meet Foreign Minister Ri YongHo and vice foreign minister Pak Myong-Kuk as well as medical facilities supported by the UN, the North’s state news agency KCNA said.

“At these meetings, our side said the US policy of hostility toward the DPRK (North Korea) and its nuclear blackmail are to blame for the current tense situation on the Korean peninsula,” the report said.

It added that the North had agreed with the UN “to regularize communications through visits at various levels”.

The report did not mention any meetings with leader Kim Jong-Un, who has ramped up his impoverished nation’s missile and nuclear program in recent years in order to achieve Pyongyang’s stated goal of developing a warhead capable of hitting the US mainland.

Feltman, the UN’s undersecretary general for political affairs, visited the country just after the United States and South Korea launched their biggest-ever joint air exercise.

Pyongyang reiterated its view that these maneuvers were a provocation on Saturday, accusing the drills of “revealing its intention to mount a surprise nuclear pre-emptive strike against the DPRK,” using the acronym for the country’s official name.

The UN Security Council has hit the isolated and impoverished North with a package of sanctions over its increasingly powerful mis-

sile and nuclear tests, which have rattled Washington and its regional allies South Korea and Japan.

Early Saturday, Feltman flew to Beijing, a key transit point with the North, and left the city’s airport without speaking to reporters.

China, which is Pyongyang’s sole major diplomatic and military ally, has called on the United States to freeze military drills and North Korea to halt weapons tests to calm tensions.

The Chinese foreign ministry on Saturday published a speech from four days ago by foreign minister Wang Yi in which he warned that the Korean Peninsula “remains deeply entrenched in a vicious cycle of demonstrations of strength and confrontation.”

“The outlook is not optimistic,” Beijing’s top diplomat added.

Pyongyang ramped up already high tensions on the Korean Peninsula at the end of November when it announced it had successfully test-fired a new intercontinental ballistic missile, which it says brings the whole of the continental United States within range.

Analysts say it is unclear whether the missile survived re-entry into the earth’s atmosphere or could successfully deliver a warhead to its target—key technological hurdles for Pyongyang.

US President Donald Trump has engaged in months of tit-for-tat rhetoric with Kim, pejoratively dubbing him “Little Rocket Man” and a “sick puppy.”

The North on Saturday released photographs of Kim on the summit of the country’s highest peak, the fabled 2,750-meter Mount Paektu, which he climbed to ponder recent successes in his drive for nuclear weapons statehood.

State media said the young leader, who was pictured strolling across the snow covered peak sporting a heavy black coat, fur hat and buffed leather shoes, had climbed the “sublime mountain of revolution”, which is on the border with China.

Described in the fulsome language of Pyongyang’s mouthpiece as “the peerlessly illustrious commander who controls the nature”, Kim was particularly pleased with the inclement weather and used the opportunity to muse on his recent military feats.

“The respected Supreme Leader gave a familiar look for a while at the dizzy cliffs and the sea of trees,” the report said, describing him dwelling on the “emotion-charged days when he realized the great historic cause of completing the state nuclear force without yielding even a moment.” AFP

MMDA SPURS RIDE-SHARING VIA H.O.V. SCHEME

By Joel E. Zurbano THE Metro Manila Development Authority has announced it will begin on Monday the one-week dry run activity on the implementation of High Occupancy Vehicle lane, a traffic scheme formulated to encourage motorists to engage in ride-sharing and further improve traffic along Epifanio de los Santos Avenue.

MMDA chairman Danilo Lim said the dry run for HOV special lane located at the fifth and leftmost lane along the 24-kilometer highway was approved by members of the Metro Manila Council during a meeting with agency officials last Dec. 5.

The MMC, composed of 17 mayors and other local government officials in the National Capital Region, is the governing board and policy-making body of the MMDA. Under the new scheme, only drivers with two passengers or more will be accorded the privilege to pass through the HOV Lane. Motorcycle riders can also use the lane aside from the motorcycle lane in the fourth lane.

Private car drivers with no companions can still use the motorcycle

MILF...

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The peace talks were held in the aftermath of the Jabidah massacre in March 18, 1968, which killed more than 60 Filipino-Muslim military trainees in Corregidor, an incident believed to be part of a plan to reclaim Sabah. The incident pushed the Moros to take up arms and lead an insurgence in Mindanao.

In 1975, the Marcos administration began peace talks with the MNLF, mediated by the OIC, which was represented by Libya.

The negotiation led to the signing of “If majority of Mindanao congressmen say, martial law is better for us, who am I to question? I’m not from here,” Teves said.

Two opposition lawmakers, however, said they don’t see any need to extend martial law in Mindanao.

Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman said extending martial law in Mindanao “defies grounds and duration imposed by the 1987 Constitution.”

He added that the extension was “constitutionally infirm both as to grounds and duration, saying that martial law can only be declared and its extension authorized in “case of invasion or rebellion, when the public safety requires it.”

lane (2nd) and third lane from the Metro Railway Transit -3 (MRT-3) wall.

The MMDA hinted of another “incentive” if the proposed HOV lane will be proven effective.

Lim said that should the HOV measure be implemented, violators will be slapped with citation ticket with P500 fine for disregarding traffic sign.

Aside from ground apprehension, the MMDA will also make use of the closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras under the no contact apprehension policy.

The new scheme would cover the whole stretch of EDSA from Balintawak, Quezon City to Roxas Boulevard in Pasay City which has five lanes: two are designated for public utility vehicles or yellow lanes, while three are designated for private vehicles and motorcycle riders.

The MMDA is encouraging motorists to engage in ride sharing to further ease traffic in the metropolis.

MMDA general manager Thomas Orbos said ride sharing has benefits because it would not only result in less traffic along EDSA and other major thoroughfares but would also cut

the 1976 Tripoli Agreement, which defined the autonomous administrative divisions for Muslims in the Southern Philippines, giving them their own economic system, including an Islamic bank.

MILF later broke away from the MNLF and formed its own group in 1981.

From the Marcos regime in 1976 to 1986; the peace talks were resumed during Arroyo administration in 2001, where Libya retained its role as country-mediator between the Philippine government and MNLF. In 2010, President Benigno Aquino III held peace talks between the government and MILF, which was mediated by the Malaysian government.

Although the Bangsamoro Basic Law The Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police had recommended to extend martial law in the region.

But Lagman argued that “there is neither actual invasion or rebellion in Mindanao after Marawi City was declared

by President Duterte as liberated from rebel and terrorist forces almost two months ago.”

He added that even the PNP and the AFP only admit the existence of threats from remnants of terrorist groups who are reportedly recruiting fighters and regrouping to exact “vengeance” against government forces.

Mere “threat or imminent danger of

air pollution and promote carpooling.

Meanwhile, the planned motorcycle ban on EDSA drew negative reactions from riders and netizens.

“Stupidest idea from the brightest of this administration,” said Ton de la Cruz.

“That too discriminate motorcycle riders,” said Rick Malvar.

Gary Ondoy said “It’s the bus (and) car to be banned instead. Much better let people used bikes & motorcycle. Less pollution & people enjoy the ride & see the beauty of metropolis.”

“All vehicles should be allowed to pass, even trucks! We only lack the discipline to limit the regulated number of tricycle, buses and jeeps in the cities,” added Emma Paterson.

Mayors in Metro Manila floated the idea and asked the MMDA to conduct a study about the possibility of the ban as part of the agency’s vehicle reduction measure on Edsa.

MMDA supervising officer for operations Edison Nebrija said the local executives discussed the matter with the MMDA during their meeting at the agency’s main office in Makati City last week.

Nebrija said prohibiting motorcy-

cles would also be good in preventing road accidents involving motorcycle riders.

But he added that they have to weigh in all the possible effects in banning the motorcycles on Edsa and to put a comprehensive study on it especially that they have allotted a motorcycle lane on the road.

“We don’t want to put our biases and let our engineers study it first.

We have to get the sentiments of the motorcycle riders,” Nebrija said.

Should motorcycles be banned on Edsa, Nebrija said bikers can look for alternate routes.

The number of vehicular accidents in the National Capital Region rose in 2016 by 13,707 to 109,322 from the 95,615 the previous year, and reckless motorcycle riding remains the top cause of deaths and injuries on streets in the metropolis.

Based on the data collated by the MMDA through its 2016 Metro Manila Accident Recording and Analysis System (MMARAS) program, motorcycles have the “highest fatality accident rate” with 218 the total number of deaths, followed by trucks (103) and private cars (98).

was signed during Aquino’s regime, the implementation has been stalled before the Congress following the Mamasapano massacre.

Eddeb admitted that Libya’s political problem has driven them away from its original role as negotiator between the Philippines and the MNLF or eventually with the MILF. “But we will not hesitate to help the Philippines on this issue,” he said.

Eddeb expressed hopes that under President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration, Libya will be able to help settle the peace pact.

“I am counting on President Duterte.

He is the only sincere President,” he said, citing his experiences with other Philip-

pine presidents before Duterte.

“I feel personally he is very sincere to settle the South issue,” he added.

The International Monitoring Team to the peace talks is currently headed by Malaysia, without the involvement of the Middle East countries, over the stalled BBL “The peace process matters to us. We have been involved in it for quite some time,” Eddeb said.

Libya experienced extreme political and security challenges in 2011 during the Arab Spring movement that toppled the 40-year dictatorship of Muammar Gaddafi.

Security concerns were voiced out after a factions of a militia group raised the threat of a civil war.

rebellion or invasion has been obliterated by the 1987 Constitution as a ground for declaring martial law because it is contingent, nebulous and self-serving,” he added.

Lagman’s position was echoed by Akbayan Rep. Tom Villarin, who said that the extension has no constitutional basis.

“The bases for martial law extension mentioned, i.e. potential terrorist threats and for expedient rehab of Marawi, do not fall under the constitutional basis of actual rebellion or insurrection and when public safety so requires,” Villarin said.

According to Villarin, martial law extension will also put on hold the May

2018 barangay elections in Mindanao because of security concerns.

“It will be a dangerous precedent that may lead to the expansion of the iron rule all over the country especially.''

Over at the Senate, minority bloc members likewise aired their opposition to a martial law extension in Mindanao, arguing that a military rule may hinder a needed “people-centered” rehabilitation in Marawi City.

Last July 22, the Congress approved President Duterte’s request to extend martial in Mindanao until Dec. 31, 2017.

Duterte himself declared Marawi City “liberated from terrorist influence” on Oct. 17.

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MAKATI BANS ‘DEADLY TOYS’

By Joel E. Zurbano

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HE city government of Makati has imposed a ban on the sale and possession of plastic knives and knuckles as well as fan knives (balisong or beintenuebe) in the city after minors have been caught using these deadly toys and gadgets during petty quarrels.

Members of the City Council passed Ordinance No. 2017-113 amending the previous one enacted in August 1997, which prohibits the distribution, sale or display of gun replicas and toy guns with plastic pellets as bullets.

Airsoft guns, airguns and other similar items being used in lawful activities are not covered by the ban.

Mayor Abigail Binay pushed for the passage of the ordinance following reports about minors using plastic knives and knuckles during brawls or in harassing others. residents have also reported that some sari-sari stores near schools

are selling sthose items to young school children.

“It is alarming that unscrupulous store owners are giving children access to these potentially harmful, even lethal, toy items. Urgent measures must be taken to stop the endangerment of the young and vulnerable and prevent lawless elements from using these ‘toys’ to victimize Makatizens,” Binay said.

Binay assured residents that the city government will exert all efforts to eliminate such threats to the safety and security of residents. She noted that access

to such toys can also promote a culture of violence among the youth.

She also discouraged parents and guardians from buying such items as gifts during the holidays, urging them to be vigilant and promptly report the presence of any of the banned items in their communities to the authorities through hotline 168 or My Makati Facebook page.

The mayor has directed the office of the Liga ng mga Barangay of Makati to lead an information drive and crack down on stores or individuals which are violating the ordinance, particularly establishments and sari-sari stores near school premises.

Under the new ordinance, mere possession of the prohibited items, as defined in both the earlier ordinance and its amendment, is punishable with a fine of P1,000 for the first offense, P2,000 for the second offense, and a P3,000 fine or imprisonment not exceeding one month, or both at the discretion of the court for the third and succeeding offense.

PRRC WARNS INDUSTRIES THAT POLLUTE PASIG RIVER PASIG River Rehabilitation Commission executive director Jose Antonio “Ka Pepeton” E. Goitia has said that only through a strong political will and with the help of all stakeholders that the country can fast-track the rehabilitation of the entire Pasig River system.

Goitia led the raid and dismantling operations of illegal pigpens in Baseco Compound, Port Area, Manila last Tuesday after several residents complained about the foul odor coming from the riverside for so many years.

After a thorough investigation by the PRRC, the agency uncovered the owners’ dirty practice of unloading their animal wastes directly into the Pasig River.

“As much as I want to sym-

pathize with the stakeholders affected by this action, still the call of duty, humanitarian concern, and observance of the law are of primordial consideration,” said Goitia.

The PRRC chief explained to the owners that they were not prohibited from relocating around 800 pigs away from the area rather than facing the consequence of the impounding of their animals which will be very costly for the stakeholders.

PRRC’s move received backing from the local inter-agency and the city government of Manila as well as from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Philippine National Police and National Bureau of Investigation which all assisted in the

raid and dismantling operations.

The PRRC sent numerous notices to the stakeholders as early as August this year to vacate the premises which is part of the 10-meter easement by the agency but the owners continued to defy their warnings.

“Strict warnings have been repeatedly issued to all concerned but these were taken for granted. All of us know how harmful are industrial, household, and animal wastes to humans, and yet, the practice of having pig pens placed nearby houses and flushing out of wastes directly into the river proliferated in alarming proportion,” added Goitia, who also serves as president of PDPLaban San Juan City Council.

On the other hand, the older ordinance imposed the following penalties for distribution, sale or display of the prohibited items: First offense, P1,000 and/ or three months closure or both; Second offense, P3,000 and/or six months closure or both; Third offense, P5,000 and/ or cancellation of business permit for the year or both.

Moreover, if a child or minor is found violating the prohibitions (possession, selling or distribution) under said local laws, he or she will be subject to the provisions of Republic Act 9344 or the “Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006.”

The law sets the minimum age of criminal responsibility of minors to above 15 years but below 18 years at the time of the commission of the offense.

Under Section 6 of R.A. 9344, a child 15 years of age or under shall be subjected to an intervention program, which refers to a series of activities designed to address issues that caused the child to commit an offense. It may take the form

of an individualized treatment program which may include counselling, skills training, education, and other activities that will enhance his/her psychological, emotional and psycho-social wellbeing.

If the offender is above 15 but below 18, he or she will be subjected to an intervention program, unless he or she has acted with discernment, in which case, he or she shall be subjected to the appropriate proceedings in accordance with the Act. Under Section 20, upon determining that the age of the child taken into custody is 15 years and below, the authority which will have an initial contact with the child has the duty to immediately release the child to the custody of his/her parents or guardian, or in the absence thereof, the child’s nearest relative. Said authority shall give notice to the local social welfare and development officer who will determine the appropriate programs in consultation with the child and the person having custody over the child.

SQUATTERS MAKE WAY FOR RAIL PROJECT WITHOUT putting up a fight, tens of thousands of squatters have agreed to make way for the NorthSouth Rail Project that will start work next year.

This has been made possible by an agreement between the Department of Transportation and housing agencies on the relocation of around 100,000 informal settler families.

Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade and officials of the Philippine National Railways signed the Memorandum of Agreement Friday with Presidential Commission on Urban Poor chairperson, James Mark Terry Ridon; National Housing Authority general manager Marcelino Escalada Jr.; Social Housing Finance Corp. president Arnolfo Ricardo Cabling; and Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council chairman Eduardo del Rosario.

The MOA will enable the agencies to provide ISFs with affordable housing assistance in order for them to be relocate in favor of the railway project.

“We really need to relocate the informal settlers living near the railways for their safety,” PNR chairman Roberto Lastimoso said.

“This MOA signing is proof that the government agencies are united in fulfilling the promise of the administration,” Tugade said.

SHFC’s Cabling said, “We assure you that the houses that we will provide for the affected ISFs are livable, affordable, and inclusive.”

NSRP, also known as the PNR South Long Haul, is a 653-kilometer railway project that will run from Manila to Batangas, Laguna, Bicol and Sorsogon.

The rail line is expected to reduce travel time from Manila to Laguna from two and a half hours to 45 minutes, while travel time from Manila to the Bicol region will improve from 12 hours to 6 hours.

Construction of the PNR South Long Haul is set to start in 2018 and the railway is expected to be operational by the second quarter of 2022.

The railroad’s Commuter Line segment will start from Solis-Hermosa in Manila to Los Baños, Laguna.

The Long Haul segment will start from Los Baños and will run through Batangas, Quezon, and the Bicol provinces of Camarines Sur and Albay to Sorsogon.

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Opinion

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2017

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Adelle Chua, Editor

EDITORIAL

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MOVING TARGETS

T THE start of his term middle of last year, President Rodrigo Duterte vowed to eradicate the drug problem in three to six months.

He, through the Philippine National Police, launched Operation Double Barrel, an aggressive two-pronged campaign to crack down on pushers and users of drugs.

Soon, however, it became clear that despite this approach, the drug menace persisted. There were too many Filipinos using drugs, and too much money to be made out of it. Mr. Duterte asked for another year.

During this period, the campaign intensified and thousands were killed. The PNP gained notoriety for its approach and the international community voiced its concern about the disregard for human rights and the rule of law. At one point, the criticism got so intense that the PNP was made to take the backseat; the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency was put at the helm.

Now the President asked for yet another year, the PNP is back albeit in a “supporting” role to the PDEA, and

WHEN IS THE NEXT SUPERMOON, AND HOW SUPER WILL IT BE?

here comes House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez saying the President in fact has until 2022—five years to go—before solving the drug problem.

The Palace also said the International Criminal Court should stay out of the anti-drug campaign even as the President likened it to a necessary evil that must be effected because of a bigger, more menacing problem.

Nobody claimed the drug problem had an easy or swift solution. Only a fool would promise a quick resolution to an issue that has hounded societies and families for decades.

While cracking down on the pushers and drug lords, there must also be enough attention on rehabilitating suspects and discouraging would-be users from getting into the habit. The current approach is not being criticized for no reason. This is just too much for one man.

We think the government should stop setting deadlines for itself. We grasp how overwhelming and far-reaching the problem is. We would be content to see constant and no-fanfare anti-drug efforts complemented by circumspection rather than buy into the illusion that the problem can magically disappear by a certain time, until the deadline is moved, anew.

By Pecier Decierdo THIS month’s full moon, which graced the world’s skies last Dec. 3, was a supermoon. A supermoon is a full moon that is larger than average.

If you missed that supermoon, do not worry. Although it was the only supermoon of the year, it was actually the first in a triad of supermoons!

The full moons of Jan. 2 and Jan. 31 of next year will also be supermoons.

But how super is a supermoon, anyway? Does the occurrence of a supermoon mean anything for us here on Earth? Why do supermoons happen in the first place?

The term ‘supermoon’ is came from astrology. In astronomy, the preferred term for a supermoon is perigee-syzygy or, specifically, the perigee-syzygy of the Earth-Moon-Sun system.

Quite a mouthful, is it not? It is therefore no wonder why the astrological term ‘supermoon’ stuck and is now used by so many.

So, why do supermoons happen? In other words, why don’t all full moons have the same size in the sky?

The answer to these questions actually explain the scientific term perigee-syzygy.

The Moon does not always appear the same size in the sky because it is not always the same distance from the Earth. The Moon’s distance changes because it follows an elliptical path around the Earth.

As the Moon goes around the Earth once a month, there is a point where it is nearest to the Earth, a point where it is farthest, and the rest of the path is everything in between. When the Moon is closest to Earth, it is said to be in perigee. When it is farthest, it is said to be in apogee.

As seen from the Earth, a Moon in perigee looks larger because it is closer. When the Moon is at perigee, it can appear up to 14 percent bigger in our skies compared to a Moon at apogee.

A supermoon is therefore just a full moon that falls near perigee.

A full moon happens when the Sun, Earth, and Moon are aligned. Astronomers call such an alignment a ‘syzygy.’

Hence the term perigee-syzygy.

A supermoon is not very large compared to an average full moon. It can, however, be significantly brighter.

A supermoon is around 20 percent brighter than an average full moon.

How big is an average full moon, anyway? Try holding one clenched fist at arms length. Next, let your pinky finger stick out. Look at the width of your pinky finger when held at that distance from your eyes. That is how big an average full moon is in the sky.

Not so big, right? When a full moon is near the horizon, visually close to trees, houses, and mountains, it appears big because of the famous ‘Moon Illusion’, which is a topic for another article.

Now imagine a moon around 10 percent bigger than your pinky held at arm’s length. That is how big a supermoon is.

Although that does not sound so impressive, a supermoon is nevertheless a good occasion to look at Turn to A5

HOW NOT TO BE FOOLED BY RANDOMNESS

By Faye Flam THERE’S a common thread to the dubious claims and irreproducible results that have plagued some fields of science. In most of these cases, scientists saw illusory patterns in the randomness of our world. It’s the same error that led people to be captivated by an octopus named Paul who, in 2010, correctly predicted the outcomes of eight German World Cup matches.

It might seem surprising that a cephalopod could make so many predictions from mere random guesses. But as statistician David Hand explains in his book “The Improbability Principle,” if enough

people ask enough animals to predict the outcomes of enough sporting events, eventually it is likely that some will guess correctly a few times in a row.

Something similar happens when thousands of scientists go looking for weird, headline-grabbing results— a common practice in psychology.

For a while, it looked like you could make yourself happier by holding a pencil in your teeth, become more empathetic by spending three minutes reading classic literature, or gain power by assuming special “power poses.” All have gone the way of poor,

discredited Paul the Octopus.

The good news is that tools to separate real results from random noise exist. The bad news is that many researchers in afflicted fields never learned to use them correctly—a conclusion echoed by reformers from within, and reflected in a statement issued last year by the American Statistical Association.

Statistical analysis falls into two major schools—frequentist and Bayesian statistics. (We’ll look at Bayesian statistics in the next installment of this series.) The frequentist school of thought hinges on the idea that the probability

of something happening corresponds to the number of times it would happen given many chances. Roll a die often enough and five will come up exactly one-sixth of the time.

Back in 1865, mathematicians Benjamin and Charles Peirce, a father-andson team, used the concept to help settle a dispute involving Hetty Green, who would later become known as the richest woman in America. The story, told in detail by journalist Louis Menand in his book “The Metaphysical Club,” starts with the mathematicians getting called as expert witnesses to determine whether Green (then Het-

ty Robinson) had forged her aunt’s signature on an alternative will that would have bequeathed her a fortune of $2 million.

The signature in question was perfectly identical to a signature on the original will, suggesting that Robinson had traced it. Most authentic signatures vary a bit. What were the odds these two signatures would be identical by chance?

The Peirces noted that the signature had 30 down strokes. They found 44 other examples of the aunt’s signature, measured down strokes, and calculated that a given down stroke matched across two signatures 5 percent of the time. They Turn to A5

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From A4

the Moon and marvel at the fact that science has made us understand the workings of that piece of rock in the sky that we were able to send representatives of our species to walk there.

As an added bonus, the supermoon of Jan. 31 next year is both a blue moon and a blood moon!

It is a ‘blue moon’ because it is the second full moon of that month.

The Moon does not turn blue during a blue moon. The ‘blue’ in blue moon probably came from the old word ‘belewe,’ which means “betrayal.”

Blue moons were probably considered “betrayals” by people who had to take note that there was an extra full moon in the season, which meant the harvest moon will come later.

Furthermore, blue moons are not a rare occurrence, contrary to what the phrase “once in a blue moon” suggests.

They occur ever two to three years.

The full moon of Jan. 31 will be a blood moon because it will occur during a lunar eclipse. A lunar eclipse happens when the Moon enters the shadow of the Earth. When it enters the darkest part of the Earth’s shadow, it turns reddish in color, leading to the term ‘blood moon.’

If there is a supermoon you would not want to miss, it will be the one on Jan. 31.

However, supermoon or not, looking up at the Moon, stars, and planets is something I hope all of us will keep on doing to remind us of our place in this amazing universe.

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

HOW...

From A4

calculated odds of one in 68 that three down strokes would match in two signatures, 1 in 144 that four would match, and odds of one in trillions that all 30 would match.

This calculation bears some resemblance to what scientists do to determine what they call statistical significance—which is expressed as something called a p-value. The technique was invented to help researchers separate real results from noise by giving them a sense of whether they should be surprised enough by their data to take a closer look.

But there, psychologists and medical researchers usually use an arbitrary cutoff point of .05 (1 in 20) to define what’s statistically significant—a standard far less stringent than the one-in-trillions calculated by the Peirces. This porous filter was originally intended to flag preliminary results that deserved a second look—not as a proxy for truth.

The problem with p-values goes beyond that. Gerd Gigerenzer, a psychologist and longtime science critic at the Max Planck Institute for Human Development, points to a survey published in 2002, which indicated that most professors of psychology don’t know what p-values represent. They think they know, but they don’t. (In an interview, Gigerenzer said he didn’t think the situation had improved in the last 15 years.)

And because they don’t understand it, they routinely calculate it incorrectly, he said, allowing the publication of lots of high-profile noise under a veneer of statistical rigor. In a 2004 paper titled Mindless Statistics, Gigerenzer illustrated the crux of the problem with an anecdote from the writings of physicist Richard Feynman. In exploring various fields of science and pseudoscience, Feynman been working with a psychologist who was putting rats in a T-shaped maze, testing whether they preferred to turn right left. The psychologist didn’t get the result he was looking for, but he did notice that the animals alternated directions, right-left-right-left, and asked Feynman if he could calculate the statistical significance of that result.

Feynman tried to explain that the psychology professor would have to set up a new experiment to test his new hypothesis. If you’re wondering why, consider the fact that drawing a pair of threes is just as unlikely as drawing a pair of kings or aces in your poker hand. But the odds of drawing a particular pre-specified pair is much lower than drawing any pair.

If researchers comb through their data fishing for weird things, that’s fine, but to calculate their statistical significance requires a separate experiment. Otherwise they’ll end up with the same problem that afflicted one of Paul’s successors, a koala named Oobi-Ooobi, who was fired last year after his sports prediction powers suddenly—and not so mysteriously—disappeared. Bloomberg

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2017

A5

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TRUMP IS A NO-SHOW IN THE FIGHT AGAINST OPIOIDS

By Albert R. Hunt THE opioid epidemic should command focused attention even from our policy-averse president. It’s America’s worst drug crisis, especially severe in the working-class and rural communities that supported President Donald Trump. Its solution involves spending money, which supposedly doesn’t faze Trump, and tougher actions against drug companies, which he’s vowed to take.

More than 175 Americans die daily from opioid overdoses, according to a presidential commission, far more than the US Centers for Disease Control attributes to car accidents and gun mishaps.

Yet Trump has done nothing but talk since his Commission on Combating Drug Addiction and the Opioid Crisis, led by New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, issued a report on Nov. 1 filled with dire language and calls to action.

“The time to wait is over,” it declared. “The time for talk has passed.”

Here’s the record so far: • The White House has yet to ask for any new funding for prevention or law-enforcement programs to address the epidemic. To the contrary, Trump has been receptive to proposals by congressional Republicans to slice spending on Medicare and Medicaid, two of the biggest programs for addiction treatment.

• Trump tapped Pennsylvania Rep. Tom Marino to head the Office of National Drug Control Policy. The nomination was withdrawn after the Washington Post and CBS News revealed that Marino pushed drug-industry-friendly legislation undermining law-

Chart showing the rise in opioid use-related deaths in the United States, including prescription drugs and heroin. AFP

enforcement efforts to crack down on suspicious imports of prescription painkillers.

• Kellyanne Conway has been named opioid czar to coordinate federal addiction-fighting activities. She is Trump’s political spin person, infamous for rebranding misinformation as “alternative facts.”

The Conway appointment stands in contrast to President Barack Obama’s designation of Ron Klain three years ago to coordinate the global effort to contain an Ebola epidemic.

My dumbest column, in 2014, questioned the Klain appointment. I was covering a Senate race in North Carolina where the Republican candidate, Tom Tillis, was joined by Senator John McCain in blasting Klain as a partisan political operative. I suggested that Obama

should give the assignment to General David Petraeus instead of Klain; six months later, Petraeus pleaded guilty to mishandling classified information after he misled federal agents investigating his release of confidential materials to his biographer and mistress.

Klain, who has been chief of staff to Vice Presidents Joe Biden and Al Gore and a top Justice Department official, did a masterful job cutting through bureaucratic red tape and marshalling support for a multibillion-dollar plan to successfully combat the spread of Ebola in Africa and beyond.

Conway, by contrast, is a pollster and political operative with little experience or knowledge about the levers of government.

Congressional Democrats have proposed adding $45 billion over 10

years to fight opioid addiction. Neither the White House nor the Republican congressional leadership has given a substantive response.

Trump voters have the most to lose. The state with the highest incidence of opioid-overdose deaths is West Virginia, which Trump carried by 43 points in last year’s election.

Overdose deaths are rising fastest in rural counties, where Trump clobbered Hillary Clinton by the historically huge margin of 26 percentage points.

In parading as a populist in the presidential campaign, Trump repeatedly attacked the drug industry, which promoted opioid use even after the human costs emerged. His promises to crack down on big pharma disappeared after the election.

Bloomberg

STAR WARS’ GROSS GALACTIC PRODUCT PROBLEM

By Stephen L. Carter WITH a week to go before the release of “The Last Jedi,” the Internet is awash in conjecture, much of it couched in an argot that only a truly wonkish Star Wars fan could even begin to follow. Consider this bit, from the venerable New York Times: “It has been speculated that a former Sith Lord caused the virgin birth of Anakin Skywalker by manipulating midichlorians.” Or this, from a Reddit devoted to guessing what comes next: “Kylo’s scar is being used to confuse the timeline.”

There’s the above-the-surface anticipation, of course, as experts debate the likely boxoffice numbers. (Will the film’s receipts eclipse those of 2015’s “The Force Awakens”? Most people seem to think not.) And of course the political arguments fly fast and furious—even if the answers are not always predictable. (For instance: Luke Skywalker’s family would have supported Donald Trump.) Some wonder whether there might not be cosmic significance in the fact that earlier this year, Trump stepped into the main cabin of Air Force One to chat with reporters who were watching “Rogue One”— and at that very instant Darth Vader appeared on the screen.

This nonstop chatter is the very definition of buzz. People can’t help speculating. What began as a fairly straightforward Campbellian myth has become an industry. In the words of my Bloomberg View colleague Cass Sunstein, “The release of a new Star Wars movie is a national celebration.” And as in so much of popular entertainment, the industry isn’t just the products; it’s also the conversations they spark.

The arguments, the anticipation, the guessing, the hopes, all remind me of how my mother and her friends used to argue over what might happen next on their favorite soap operas. They were sometimes disappointed, but they never stopped watching.

Well, all of that can be fun. What I still wonder, even after eight films and counting, is what makes the whole thing go. No, no, not the franchise: the Star Wars universe. This isn’t like Star Trek, which has so proudly dispensed

with money. There’s currency in Star Wars, and some people have a lot of it. So how does the economy work?

To begin with, the economy of the Star Wars universe seems to rest on relatively free intergalactic trade, although the would-be gains are reduced due to the significant power of guilds and monopolies. Despite the ubiquity of technology, it’s evident that many people and some entire planets are poor. No wonder, with the rebellion somehow never running short of fighters or transports and the Empire using every spare penny to pay for its technological terror.

The Death Star and its successors are delightfully, improbably expensive. At current rates of production, it would require over 800,000 years to produce enough steel to build the Death Star, at a cost of $852 quadrillion. Still, in a galaxy of over 3 million inhabited systems, one imagines that the Empire could find enough resources. But the films present us with a larger problem. According to this paper that was all the rage two years ago, the destruction of the first Death Star likely meant the evaporation of 15 percent to 20 percent of Gross Galactic Product, meaning that unless the Rebel Alliance had massive bailout funds ready, the Empire (or the newly restored Republic) was headed for a deep depression. Now the rebels have destroyed two Death Stars and the even bigger Starkiller Base.

How will the galactic economy survive?

Then there’s the problem nobody in the films talks about: the existence of slave labor in the galaxy. Anakin Skywalker, before growing up to become Darth Vader, was born a slave on Tatooine. As many commentators have pointed out, when the Jedi arrived on the planet, they made no effort to free the slaves. Neither did anyone else. The Star Wars films have never had a Spartacus.

Moreover, there is little on the big screen to suggest that we, the audience, are meant to be outraged by the fairly common ownership of human beings. As the theater arts professor Kevin Wetmore has pointed out, the only “horror of slavery in the series is that Leia, Anakin, and Shmi are subjected to slavery.” What is bad about slavery is not the existence of the institution but

the fact that the heroes and their families must suffer through it.

Yet the existence of slavery in the Star Wars universe is itself something of a mystery. Yes, economic historians have come around to the view that Southern slavery in the US very likely was profitable, whether or not it was sustainable.

But in a technologically advanced galaxy, exactly why human slave labor should be more profitable than droid labor is not entirely clear.

One would think that robot miners, for instance, would work more efficiently than humans, and with considerably less attrition. But in the Star Wars universe, mining is done by human slaves.

Perhaps the problem is that the droids are lousy technology. They tend to be built for narrow purposes (protocol droids, battle droids, and so forth) and seem not terribly bright.

(Amazon’s Alexa seems smarter.) The Star Wars galaxy has not quite suffered a Butlerian Jihad, the event in the “Dune” universe that forbade the construction of artificially intelligent computers.

But something is holding things back.

The droids seem sentient. Nevertheless, they are still owned by humans and required to obey their owners’ commands. So it may make sense, as others have suggested, to think of the droids not as machines but as slaves.

Now, let’s see. What do we have so far? Under the Republic and the Empire alike, a pretense of free trade corrupted by extensive guilds and monopolies; an Empire that spends enormous sums on military technology; a Rebel Alliance that has no evident plan for making up the enormous economic losses when the technology is destroyed; and an ubiquitous slavery that nobody in the galaxy seems interested in doing anything about.

So as we await “The Last Jedi,” let the speculation continue. (Will Rey fall to the Dark Side? Will Rey not fall to the Dark Side? Has Rey already fallen to the Dark Side?) I have no doubt that the movie will be enormous fun. But when I’m sitting there with my popcorn on opening day—I bought my tickets a month ago—the scholarly part of me will also be trying to figure out how the galaxy manages to pay for it all.

Bloomberg

World

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2017 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Cesar Barrioquinto, Editor / Jimbo Gulle, Issue Editor

UNDER-FIRE WTO MEETING SET IN BUENOS AIRES BUENOS AIRES, Argentina—Under fire from the United States, wracked by disagreements over China and unable to kickstart stalled trade talks, the World Trade Organization meets under a cloud in Argentina from Sunday.

The Buenos Aires meeting will be the first in the era of US President Donald Trump, who has pummeled the 164-member body relentlessly since taking office, even describing it as a “disaster.”

The Trump administration had made the WTO a preferred target of its “America First” policy, threatening to pull America out of the trade organization it says is hampering its ability to compete.

Expectations of any kind of a breakthrough at the Buenos Aires meeting are low.

“There are several subjects on the table. On any of them, we may have some convergences on certain topics, or not, I don’t know,” was the underwhelming assessment of WTO Director General Roberto Azevedo at a briefing at the end of November.

Argentina’s Susana Malcorra, who will preside over the Dec. 10 to 13 meeting, was more upbeat recently, saying a deal was likely to end harmful fisheries subsidies, keenly of interest to developing countries.

She was also positives about the prospects of a EU-Mercosur (Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay and Paraguay) trade deal finally coming to fruition 18 years after talks first began. AFP

DEFACED. Palestinian children look at vandalized graffiti depicting United States President Donald Trump and slogans against US Vice President Mike Pence painted on Israel’s controversial separation barrier in the West Bank city of Bethlehem during clashes with Palestinian protestors near an Israeli checkpoint on Thursday. Trump’s recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital may bring little immediate concrete change, but risks sparking another round of violence in a conflict that has lasted decades. AFP

WINDS WHIP CALIFORNIA FIRES SOUTH BONSALL, California—Unrelenting winds fanned towering flames Friday in southern California, where hundreds of thousands of people have been forced to flee multiple devastating fires in the Los Angeles area and new outbreaks near San Diego.

Hundreds of structures, including multimillion-dollar mansions, have been destroyed as thousands of firefighters battle wind-fueled wildfires on six different fronts.

Black smoke billowed through the region, gagging residents who ventured outdoors.

“I’ve never seen anything like this and I’ve lived here 20 years,” Judy Herman, 76, told AFP. Herman was relieved to find her home in Murrieta, east of Los Angeles, still intact. It was part of the huge evacuation zone forced by the “Liberty” fire -- which included many ranches in the area, where rodeos are popular.

Meanwhile, since erupting in Ventura county late Monday, the so-called “Thomas” fire has ravaged 132,000 acres, an area nearly triple the size of Washington DC. AFP

‘WORST ATTACK’ ON UN FORCE: 15 KILLED IN CONGO GOMA, DR CONGO—The United Nations suffered its worst attack on a peacekeeping mission in nearly a quarter of a century on Friday when suspected Ugandan rebels attacked a base in the restive Democratic Republic of Congo, killing at least 15 peacekeepers.

The UN Security Council said the peacekeepers, who were all from neighboring Tanzania, were killed in the North Kivu province late Thursday, alongside five Congolese soldiers, with 53 personnel wounded.

UN chief Antonio Guterres led an outpouring of outrage over the deadly ambush, calling it a “heinous” act.

“I condemn this attack unequivocally. These deliberate attacks against UN peacekeepers are unacceptable and constitute a war crime,” he said in a statement.

Heather Nauert, spokeswoman for the State Department, said Washington was “appalled by the horrific act.”

The attack is the worst loss of life to a UN peacekeeping force since 1993 when 24 Pakistani soldiers were killed in Somalia during clashes with a local warlord.

DR Congo’s huge eastern region has long been wracked by violence, but fighting between government soldiers and militia groups, as well as inter-ethnic clashes, has increased significantly this year.

North Kivu province, which borders Uganda and Rwanda, has seen a particular uptick in killings and kidnappings between rival ethnic groups. AFP

J

‘DAY OF RAGE’ SEES TWO DEAD IN ISRAEL

ERUSALEM—Clashes, Palestinian rocket fire and Israeli air strikes killed at least two people and wounded dozens of others on Friday in violence linked to United States President Donald Trump’s declaration of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital.

In the latest diplomatic fallout, the United States stood alone as, one after another, fellow United Nations Security Council members criticized Trump’s decision in an emergency meeting of the world body.

After a day of protests and clashes in Jerusalem and the Palestinian territories, at least three rockets were fired at Israel from the Gaza Strip, including one shot down by Israel’s Iron Dome anti-missile system, the army said.

Another appeared to have fallen in wasteland but the third landed in the southern Israeli city of Sderot, although Israeli public radio said that rocket did not explode and did not

cause any casualties.

Following the first two rockets, Israel responded with air strikes on two Hamas military facilities in the Gaza Strip.

The Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza said 14 people were wounded from the strikes.

Earlier in the day, two Palestinians were killed in clashes with Israeli forces along the fence dividing the Gaza Strip from Israel -- the first deaths in the protests over Trump’s decision.

Dozens of others were wounded from rubber bullets or live fire in clashes in the occupied West Bank, Gaza Strip and Jerusalem that fol-

lowed the main weekly Muslim prayers.

Whether violence would further spiral in the Palestinian territories and elsewhere was being closely watched, with Friday marking a second day of unrest.

Tens of thousands also protested in a range of Muslim and Arab countries, including Jordan, Turkey and Malaysia.

With Trump’s decision having drawn near universal condemnation, the United States saw itself isolated at the Security Council session in New York.

Five European countries on the council insisted the new US policy was not consistent with past UN resolutions, including one that considers east Jerusalem to be Israelioccupied.

But the US ambassador to the UN, Nikki Haley, told delegates that the White House was serious about the

search for peace.

“Let me again assure you, the president and this administration remain committed to the peace process,” she said.

The meeting was convened by eight of the 14 non-US members of the council but was largely symbolic -- no vote on a resolution was planned, as the US has veto power.

Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas hailed the international concern, according to a statement carried by official Palestinian news agency WAFA. Islamist movement Hamas, which runs the Gaza Strip, had called for a “day of rage” and its leader Ismail Haniya for the start of a new intifada, or uprising.

“We call on our people in all factions and resistances to continue in this blessed intifada until we achieve all our just demands,” it said in a statement late Friday. AFP

BIG MEDIA SCRAMBLES TO MEET BIG TECH’S TEST WASHINGTON—America’s media giants have seen this movie before: Big Tech enters an industry with piles of cash and new ways of doing business, devastating the competition.

That’s why Big Media are scrambling for partnerships and tie-ups to bolster their content arsenal in the face of a well-funded onslaught from the tech sector.

This shifting landscape helps explain talks between Walt Disney Co. and 21st Century Fox to sell key television and film assets from the Rupert Murdoch family-controlled group, and a proposed AT&T purchase of media-entertainment powerhouse Time Warner.

More deals are likely as the industry adapts to a consumer shift to online, on-demand services like Netflix, and efforts by tech giants such as Facebook and Apple to jump into original content.

“It’s an incredibly complicated game of musical chairs happening simultaneously,” said Robert Thompson, who heads Syracuse University’s Bleier Center for Television and Popular Culture.

“Everyone is trying to make sure that when the music stops they have enough content and people to keep making it for them.”

The old model of hefty pay TV packages supporting the content creators is fading, and the struggle for power in the industry is now referred to by some analysts as a “Game of Thrones,” a reference to the popular HBO series.

Streaming services like Netflix and

Amazon have already disrupted the sector. According to a report by the investment firm Raymond James, 31 percent of Americans said their primary source of video was streaming services.

About 32 percent of consumers have canceled or “traded down” to a less expensive package, and many young viewers rely entirely on Internet platforms for video, the report said.

Google-owned YouTube is also ramping up its original content offerings and Apple has reportedly created a $1 billion war chest for its television service programs.

“It’s more than taking away money and subscriptions. It’s about viewership, eyeballs,” said Bruce Leichtman of Leichtman Research Group, who follows media and entertainment.

Richard Greenfield, an analyst at BTIG Research, says the established “legacy” companies are being forced to sell, diversify or “scale up” to compete against tech players.

But Greenfield said Disney’s plan to acquire Fox’s stake in Sky TV and studio assets while gearing up for its own streaming offerings may not be enough.

Disney, which owns the ABC television network along with ESPN sports channels, still appears wedded to “legacy distribution platforms,” Greenfield said in a research note.

With more consumers moving away from big pay TV bundles, “industry fundamentals are worsening by the day,”

Greenfield writes.

“At the same time the tech giants/ platforms are flourishing and they are taking aim at consumer time spent with legacy media.”

Analyst Brian Wieser at Pivotal Research said the moves come amid concerns about eroding profits, and mergers can give the firms better scale.

“The pursuit of size allows for more

cost efficiencies and a better negotiating position” for content, Wieser said.

An AT&T-Time Warner deal would merge one of the largest distribution platforms -- AT&T’s pay TV and Internet service -- with the media-entertainment conglomerate’s HBO, CNN and other content channels, putting it on the same level as Comcast, a cable giant which owns NBCUniversal. AFP

TAKING FLIGHT. Pigeons fly around Durbar Square in Kathmandu on Tuesday. Durbar Square, where the palaces of the Malla and Shah kings are located in Kathmandu, is listed as a UNESCO world heritage site. AFP

Sports

DURHAM’S FRIEND EYES STINT IN PBA

By Robbie Pangilinan

W

ILLIAM Kristopher Timmons, a 6-7 guard out of Shaw University, is aspiring to play in the Philippine Basketball Association.

The passionate player who is compared to NBA greats Richard Hamilton, Reggie Miller, Scottie Pippen, and Kobe Bryant in terms of defense and scoring ability, says playing in Asia’s first professional hoop could be a perfect destination for him.

“I feel that playing in the PBA could be a great way for me to begin my professional career. With the PBA being one of the oldest leagues in the world, its rich history could provide an opportunity for me to compete at a high level as a rookie during my first season abroad.”

Timmons is also attracted by the Filipino fans’ inimitable adoration for the game.

“The fan love, the level of competition, and the idea of leading the younger generation from the US to the Philippines is another very motivating factor. I also look forward to really embracing the culture of the Philippines.”

Timmons has been following the PBA for two years, while keeping in contact with his good friend Allen Durham, the PBA 2017 Governor’s Cup best import, and monitoring his success from a distance.

For Timmons, character makes the best players. He believes his strongest attributes are his character traits and personality.

“Being a great teammate and

Kris Timmons can take the shot from the outside

leader requires both attributes in order for a team to be successful.

My strengths on the court include my ability to defend, score from multiple places on the floor, high basketball IQ, and lead the team in positive energy. I always have felt like the players on the bench have just as much impact on the game as the players on the court,” he continues.

Basketball is art

Or he can take it to the hoop for a slam

“To me, basketball is like art. It takes discipline and focus to create art,” says 26-year-old William Kristopher Timmons of Durham, North Carolina.

Timmons has been playing basketball since he was two years old. He started pursuing the game competitively at the age of five in Kindergarten. He says the love he has for basketball extends far beyond the joy he gains from playing.

“The lessons I’ve learned from playing have translated well into life. The experiences basketball has brought me have made me a better man and professional on so

many levels,” he adds.

After concluding his college career at Shaw University after the 2015-2016 season, Kris signed with his former agent who he feels gave him very little help with the ignition of his professional career.

He participated in several Vegas showcases last summer, where he had his most memorable game— a 40-point output he describes as “one of the strongest performances I had ever put together on both ends of the floor.”

“Offensively, I was making shots and completing plays. Defensively, I was able to keep the opposing offensive players outside of their comfort zone. The discipline and focus I held during the game made a huge difference for my team as we were able to attain the win,” he shares.

Timmons recalls when he chose to return to campus to complete his degree and prepare for a relocation to Las Vegas where he could train in a bigger market, in hopes to connect with someone with credibility who will mentor and guide

him along his journey to the professional level.

He was able to connect with his current mentor, Bill Walton, who has given him the opportunity to pursue his career as an NBA prospect through connections with personnel within the NBA. However, he went undrafted in the 2017 NBA Draft, but joined Coach Tim Grgurich’s NBA Mini-Camp in Vegas (workout with Dallas Mavericks personnel) and the Sacramento Kings/ Reno Bighorns open workout.

“At my size and height, I have the ability, work ethic, and character to play at the NBA level. However, I am aware that a player of my capability must also attain a professional resume; something I did not attain throughout my college career,” Timmons says.

Timmons takes training very seriously. His typical training consists of weight lifting five to six times a week to increase athletic performance. He also works in a private training facility in Vegas where he coaches and trains younger players.

He participates in drills with his clients during the sessions and also use the facility for his personal sessions which include hundreds of jump shots per day, ballhandling and agility work to stay sharp defensively.

Timmons tries to take at least one day per week solely as his “Yoga Day” where he goes through a series of stretches and body therapy to improve flexibility and strengthen his core.

“The most important part of my regime is most definitely my diet. I maintain a high carb, high protein diet to restore energy lost during workouts and competition. Lots of pasta and lean meat is what I depend on aside from my protein shakes two times each day. Because of my high metabolism, I make it a goal to consume close to 12,000 calories per day,” he shares.

Timmons got an idea of the Filipinos’ brand of basketball from his friend, Meralco Bolts import Allen Durham, and now he wants a piece of the PBA action, too.

SUKSUKONT CLAIMS PHL LADIES MASTERS PLUM

Renuka Suksukont gets the traditional victory douse from co-players and supporters after winning the Philippine Ladies Masters by two.

STA. ROSA, Laguna—Renuka Suksukont bucked a triple-bogey miscue on No. 9 and pulled through in a nervewracking backside duel with fellow Thai Chayanun Chonlada to capture the ICTSI Philippine Ladies Masters crown by two on a closing 72 at The Country Club here yesterday.

On the brink of blowing an overnight four-stroke lead with nine holes to play, Suksukont toughened up and fired back-to-back birdies to open her backside bid then pounced on Chonlada’s bogey-bogey mishap from No. 15 to complete a wire-to-wire victory in her maiden stint in the 54-hole championship sponsored by ICTSI. “This (win) is memorable because I made it on my first try,” said Suksukont, a Phatum Thani native who pooled a five-under 211 and took the top purse of $12,000 while leading an impressive Thai sweep of the top three places in the $80,000 event co-sanctioned by China and Taiwan LPGA Tours and Ladies Philippine Golf Tour.

It was also Suksukont’s first victory

on the China LPGA Tour after posting six Top 10 finishes.

“I really didn’t expect to win given the quality of the competition but I did it,” said Suksukont, who also kept the crown which compatriot Saranporn Langkulgasettrin won over Princess Superal last year.

The 24-year-old Chonlada gunned down two birdies in a solid frontside stint and tied Suksukont at three-under overall after the latter triple-bogeyed No. 9 following a birdie on No. 8 for a 38, setting the stage for a backside shootout between the two Thai aces.

Make it three as Ploychompoo Wirairungreung rallied from seven down to within one off Suksukont with a scorching six-under card after 14 holes.

But she bogeyed the par-3 17th and finished with a 67, sharing runner-up honors with Chonlada, who wound up with a 70, at 213.

Suksukont nearly blew it after a struggle on the ninth fairway softened by overnight rains where she needed two extra shots to reach the green. Two-

up with two holes to go, she dumped her 9-iron tee-shot on the par-3 17th and needed two blasts to get out.

But on both occasions, she didn’t crumble and instead struck back with clutch birdies, including the difficult closing hole, frustrating Chonlada no end.

Korean Hwang Min-jeong birdied the final hole to card a 71 and snatch fourth place at 215, nipping Yuka Saso for low amateur honors in China LPGA’s first overseas event organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc. Thanuttra Boonraksasat shot a 70 and placed fifth at even 216, capping Thailand’s domination of the event which served as the penultimate leg of a record 11-stage LPGT. With Chihiro Ikeda, who co-shared the lead late in the second round en route to a 70, losing her putting touch and poise when it mattered most, Saso rebounded from a horrible 77 in the second round, ramming in five birdies at the front to rally from nine down to within two with nine holes to play.

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2017 randyproject@yahoo.com

NEWCOMER MUNTINLUPA PREVAILS IN NCRAA CAGING ANOTHER newcomer team has made its presence felt as Pamantasan Ng Lungsod Ng Muntinlupa scored an impressive win in the Sta. Lucia-NCRAA men’s basketball tournament at the PATTS Gymnasium.

The Marshals went off to a rousing start behind the sizzling performance of Reymart Argana, who pumped in three triples in the opening period allowing his team to go all the way in dumping the NCBA Wildcats, 65-53.

But while Argana opened up things for the Marshals’ early breakaway, Pamantasan Ng Lungsod Ng Maynila also got solid contributions from Daniel Austria, who came off the bench to score 14 points and led his team in scoring.

The Marshals led by as many as 26 points in the third period, 53-27, and the Wildcats never recovered from there despite outscoring their rivals, 16-7, in the final period.

Pamantasan Ng Lungsod Ng Maynila and the host school for the scheduled triple-header, PATTS, joined opening day winners AMA and University of Luzon, in the win column of this tournament sponsored by Sta. Lucia Land and outfitted by LGR Sportswear.

Carls Richard Duenas paced NCBA with 10 points.

PATTS outplayed La Salle-Dasmarinas, 90-77, in the other game.

John Reed knocked in 11 of his 13 points in the opening period that triggered the Seahorses’ 34-16 run earlier.

The Patriots, who fell behind by as much as 27 points, made a last ditch effort of rallying by unloading 18 unanswered points only to run out of time.

Norman Torreno, a rookie, led the way for the Seahorses with 21 points while Joshua Diaz added 19.

COLORMANILA SLATED AT SM MOA IN JANUARY COLORMANILA, the country’s most aggressive ‘concept fun-run’ organizer, gears up for its biggest and most colorful event to date - the ColorManila Run Year 6, also known as CM Paradise Run, to be held on Jan. 2018 at the SM Mall of Asia Event Grounds, in Pasay City.

CMR5, which was held January of this year, saw a record-breaking, sold-out event with 12,000 participants joining the race. The event also got international recognition and was a Finalist for Asia Sports Industry Awards in Bangkok, Thailand, for both the Mass Participation category and the Best Integrated Marketing Campaign for a Sports Event category. The event also got featured in various news outlets in 13 countries, including Malaysia, India, Turkey and Spain, among others.

This year, they are targeting 15,000 runners who will get to enjoy the ‘Paradise-themed run’ which takes place on the first Sunday of 2018.

CM Paradise Run includes four race distances, 3K, 5K, 10K and 21K. The experience will take runners through various color stations with palm trees, garlands and hammocks. This will be capped off with the CM Color Festival where runners will get to groove and dance to the music of the DJ, as they simultaneously throw colored powder in the air.

A true Filipino start-up, ColorManila was started almost 6 years ago by Jay Em and Justine Cordero, with the vision of growing fun-runs in the country. Today, the company has seen over 150,000 runners join their various events, spread across the country from Ilocos Sur on the north to Davao, down south.

ColorManila VP Justine Cordero says, “We’re proud to say that ColorManila started as a passion project, which grew into a company. Throughout the years, we have seen runners who have been with us from our inception, whom we see every year.

We’ve seen participants spend their life events with us, such as proposals, birthdays and anniversaries.”

Runners can also expect celebrities and athletes to join the event. In the past years, celebrities such as Karylle, Kuya Kim, Yassi Pressman, Dominique Roque, Sam YG, Bubbles Paraiso, Yael Yuzon, Katarina Rodriguez, Clea Pineda, Coach Jim Saret, Sheena Halili, Rica Peralejo, Jodilly Pelendre, Miss Earth 2015 Angelia Ong, Rovinson Fernandez, Miss Universe Maxine Medina, 1st runner-up Ms International Nicole Cordovez, Phil and James Younghusband, Melissa Gohing, Crystal Belo, Maxine Magalona, JC Intal, Elmo Magalona, Patricia Tumulak, Bb Pilipinas Ann Colis, Eric Virata, Toni-Toni, Gerard Pizaras, Jan Marini, Dominique Roque, Diana Zubiri, Bb. Pilipinas Zara Carbonell, Will Devaughn, Eruption and Volcanoes’ Chris Everingham were spotted in their events.

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Sports

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2017 Riera U. Mallari, Editor / Reuel Vidal, Issue Editor / Randy Caluag, Issue Editor

sports_mstandard@yahoo.com

GINEBRA NOT SMB IS TEAM TO BEAT

By Reuel Vidal

FIGHTER EARNS COLLEGE DEGREE

B

ARANGAY Ginebra, not San Miguel Beer, is the team to beat in the coming 2017-2018 Philippine Basketball Association Philippine Cup. And the dark horse team is TNT KaTropa because Kelly Williams is playing like an import again.

Okay, I’ll concede that Ginebra and San Miguel Beer will probably be in the Finals of the Philippine Cup March next year but Ginebra is capable of ending the Beermen’s three-year string of All-Filipino championships.

All eyes may be on defending champion San Miguel Beer when the All-Filipino starts Dec. 17 but even coach Leo Austria will be the first to admit that his team has no answer to the massive Ginebra frontline featuring the two-headed monster teamup of Greg Slaughter and Japeth Aguilar.

Austria said everyone saw what Slaughter and Aguilar can do while playing together. It’s a combination of two skilled big men who can score from inside or outside and who are capable of dominating the game at both ends of the floor.

Ginebra, with Aguilar and Slaughter on the floor, is the only team which has the size to contain SMB behemoth June Mar Fajardo.

This was only too evident in their last meeting when the Gin Kings trounced the Beermen 104-84 in the quarterfinals of the past Governors’ Cup. Last year SMB only defeated Ginebra in the All-Filipino Finals because Slaughter was recovering from an ACL injury. Slaughter returned in the Governors’ Cup and the Gin Kings have been unstoppable since.

Slaughter eventually won the

Barangay Ginebra big man Japeth Aguilar (25) posts up against Alaska Aces forward Calvin Abueva (8) during their PBA game. PBA

tournament’s Best Player of the Conference award even as Ginebra won the championship.

How worried are the Beermen?

They started a league-wide controversy to bring in Christian Standhardinger and the guy won’t even be available to play for them until the league’s second conference which means they should probably kiss the All-Filipino crown goodbye.

Slaughter and Aguilar is just the start of the Beermen’s problems when they face the Gin Kings. There are the young stars led by Scottie Thompson and Kevin Ferrer. There’s LA Tenorio who takes particular pleasure in tormenting San Miguel ever since they traded him away to

TNT KaTropa forward Kelly Williams (21) lets out a primal roar as he slams the basketball through the hoop. PBA

Barangay Ginebra center Greg Slaughter (20) blocks San Miguel Beer counterpart June Mar Fajardo (15).

PBA

the Alaska Aces back in 2008.

And of course there’s Tim Cone with his 20 league championships orchestrating everything.

Cone is probably not even gunning for just PBA championships anymore.

Remember he won a Grand Slam with the Alaska Aces in 1996. Then he won another Grand Slam with San Mig Coffee in 2014. You think the prospect of a Barangay Ginebra Grand Slam hasn’t crossed his mind?

It’s probably SMB and Ginebra in the Finals with Ginebra likely taking the crown home. But if either

Ginebra or SMB falter then TNT is the likeliest to go to the PBA Finals in their place.

TNT has as formidable a lineup as SMB or Ginebra. But it has fallen by the wayside time and again these past conferences because the team has failed to maximize the potential of its star-studded bench.

If coach Nash Racela can do this and also learn to budget Williams’ playing time so that he’s in beast mode when the game is on the line then TNT is capable of upsetting both Ginebra and San Miguel Beer.

CRUCIAL UNTV CUP GAMES TODAY THE fates of rookie team Department of Agriculture Food Masters and the PDEA Drug Busters depend on the outcome of the battle between the DOJ Justice Boosters and the Ombudsman Graft Busters in the UNTV Cup Season 6 on Sunday at the Olivarez Gymnasium in Paranaque City.

Should the Justice Boosters defeat the Graft Busters, there will be a triple-tie among the DOJ, PDEA and DA teams.

And based on the rules of the UNTV Cup point system, PDEA will advance to the next round, while the DA will exit the league.

But if the Ombudsman

April Osenio

Games Sunday

(Olivarez Sports Complex) 2 p.m. - Ombudsman vs DOJ 3:30 p.m. - GSIS vs PNP 5 p.m. - AFP vs DOH

beats DOJ, the Department of Agriculture will enter the next round based on the win-overthe-other rule as the Food Masters nipped the Drug Busters, 104-100, last Sept. 17.

Of the seven teams in Group B this season of the league of public servants, the Judiciary Magis, Malacañang-PSC Kamao and the NHA Builders, all toting 5-1 slates, will advance to the second round of elimi-

nations.

Meanwhile, the AFP Cavaliers aim for their fifth win as the first round of eliminations comes to an end on Sunday.

The two-time champion takes on the DOH Health Achievers in the third game at 5 p.m.

The soldiers will try to level with the Senate Defenders, who hold the top spot in Group A with a 5-1 standing.

The AFP Cavaliers are coming off a 100-92 win over the PNP Responders.

The BFP Firefighters, the The DoH Health Achievers’ Leonardo Nidoy (34) towers over DOH Health Achievers and the three BFP Firefighters players during his team’s game against the COA Enablers failed to advance Firefighters in the UNTV Cup Season 6 at the Pasig City Sports Center. in Group A.

APRIL Osenio is unlike your usual Mixed Martial Arts fighter.

A Philippine national Wushu champion, a Team Lakay standout and a ONE Championship atomweight contender, Osenio has broken the mold for fighters and has earned a college degree to ensure her future.

Osenio graduated with the degree of Bachelor of Criminal Justice Education at the University of Cordilleras In Baguio City last September 1. Osenio said she was eager to disprove the stereotype that prizefighters do not put a premium on education.

“Pursuing your passion in martial arts is not a hindrance in securing your future through education. It is also a way of breaking the stigma that fighters have in our society. It’s an achievement that I was able to set an example for others to follow,” she said.

Osenio is only too aware that professional athletes have a very short shelf life and having a college degree will open avenues for her in the future.

“Education is very important because my career as a fighter will not last for a long time. By the time I reach 38 or 40 years old, I need to retire and have another job to support my family,” she said.

She’s not done with her studies yet.

Osenio is reviewing for the Criminologist Licensure Examination to be held June 2018.

This is a comparable civil service examination which makes her eligible for government positions such a correctional officer, probation officer, agents in any law enforcement agency, security officer, criminal investigator, ballistician and the like.

Most importantly, certified criminologists who pass the licensing examination shall be eligible for appointment as Partrolman in chartered cities and municipalities.

She takes a quick break from her books to put on four-ounce combat gloves to fight in Thailand at the Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand against “The Panda” Xiong Jingnan of China on the undercard of ONE: Warriors of the World.

Osenio, who has not competed since her submission loss to Jenny “Lady GoGo” Huang last year December 2016, knows of the tough challenge that lies ahead of her.

Xiong is an upcoming female strawweight contender in ONE Championship and is known as one of the top three leading female martial arts talents in China.

With a penchant for scoring highlight-reel finishes and executing powerful slams, Xiong holds an impressive professional record of 9-1.

Despite the big challenge in front of her, Osenio promises to give fans her best effort and turn her threeround match with Xiong into a standup war.

“It has been a while since fans last saw me in the cage. I would say I have not changed a lot, I have just been working on improving my skills,” Osenio explained “My style is still the same. I focus on my Wushu and really want to test my opponent’s striking abilities. I am excited to show everyone how much better I am this time around,” she said.

She steps back into the cage at ONE: Warriors of the World eager to make a strong statement.

“I have been really working on sharpening my skills and fixing a lot of my weaknesses. This next bout is so important because my opponent is one of China’s best martial artists, and a win will really speak volumes of where I am at as a professional. This is one of the toughest training camps I have ever had so far, and I am ready to showcase the results in Bangkok,” she said.

Osenio’s fight against Jingnan was ongoing as we went to press. A victory enhances her status as a professional fighter but a loss will not be a devastating blow to her career because she has taken the time to complete her education to later become a full-fledged law enforcement officer.

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2017

Business

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

FRESH OPTIONS CEO HONES SKILLS OF 1,900 EMPLOYEES

n entrepreneur who grew his business from a small poultry farm in the 1980s into an integrated food company is holding a Christmas party in San Fernando City where most of his 1,900 employees are expected to attend on Dec. 12.

Robert Lo, the 58-year-old chairman and president of Pampanga-based RDF Feed, Livestock & Foods Inc., is trying to gather all his employees for a grand Christmas party inside a large convention center.

“We will close our [Fresh Options Meatshop] stores for half a day for the Christmas party. We will honor five-year to 10-year employees during the event. We are holding a video making contest this year with the theme ‘I heart RDF’,” he says.

Lo employs more than 1,900 people all over Luzon who are involved in the production, processing and sale of 150 hogs and 12,000 chicken each day. A veterinarian and a former professor at UP Los Baños, Lo is a strong believer in education and training.

He sends employees for technical trainings in the United States, South Korea and the Netherlands, supports the pursuit of master’s degree by his young managers at Ateneo de Manila University or De La Salle University and taps University of Makati to provide college education to about 30 supervisors who have no bachelor’s degree yet.

“Once in a while, we also go out to look at the trends in Singapore, Japan and other Asian markets,” he says, referring to his marketing professionals.

“We are very active in our RDF University [in partnership with University of Makati]. We have a lot of trainings to improve their skills. We encourage our people to get further studies,” Lo says in an interview in Makati City.

Aside from more than 1,000 farm and retail workers, RDF employs over 400 professionals including engineers, veterinarians, food technologists and technical experts who comprise the research and development team.

The company has a seven-hectare facility on an industrial site in Porac near the boundary of Angeles City.

“With the growth of the company, the jobs of our people have become specialized. For example, one of our veterinarians is very interested in the tunnel ventilation poultry system and wants to study wind flow and the use of infrared cameras to monitor heat. We are sending him to Georgia [US],” says Lo, who established RDF in 1988. The company is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2018.

“There are a lot of supervisors who are not college graduates but they are very adept. We now have a program with University of Makati for degree equivalency. About 30 plus of our supervisors are attending classes in our company every Saturday and Sunday, for up to 15 months, after which they will have a BA degree,” says Lo, who graduated with a degree in Veterinary Medicine from UP Diliman in 1983 and a Master in Entrepreneurship from the Asian Institute of Management in Makati City in 2003.

Lo also supports a scholarship program for veterinary students.

On why he puts emphasis on education, Lo says this will enable more employees to take up leadership positions in the company in the future.

“We want them to be innovative. We have a hard time getting outsiders who are shocked by our

ENTREPRENEUR. RDF Feed, Livestock & Foods Inc. chairman and president Robert Lo company culture which is said to be paternalistic in approach,” says Lo. Employees describe the company culture in RDF as close-knit and family-like.

RDF, short for Red Dragon Farms, is a world-class meat company that is considered among the largest taxpayers in the city of San Fernando and the towns of Porac and Magalang in Pampanga. It is the company behind Fresh Options Meatshop. It also distributes processed meat products and Filipino meals and operates several restaurants at the same time. An innovator, RDF introduced the first food vending machine at SM Clark this year.

Fresh Options stores carries pork, chicken and meat products that were bred, raised, dressed, processed and delivered in-house. The stores also sell beef, marinated meat and ready-to-cook food. RDF’s restaurant unit, Robbie’s Gourmet Deli, supplies precooked and cooked food.

Lo, who controls more than 80 percent of RDF, says the company is set to open a P400-million automated slaughterhouse in Porac, with equipment imported from Germany, by March 2018 to upgrade the meat sector in the Philippines.

“In the fresh meat sector, I think we are globally competitive,” Lo says. He says RDF employs uninterrupted cold chain standards from farms to slaughterhouse to meat shops and observes proper segregation of pork, chicken and beef.

“Weekly, we have quality assurance people who go to our stores to observe quality standards. We

make sure the temperature of the meat does not exceed 5 degrees,” he says. “We are also strictly observing a shelf-life for our products.”

Lo says despite the strict standards, the company minimizes wastage to less than 0.5 percent of total sales. “We are able to forecast the requirements of each store,” he says.

Fresh meat accounts for 85 percent to 89 percent of RDF’s total sales, but the company is also growing its processed food segment.

Lo is expanding the business further, with the launching of rotisserie chicken and roast pig delivery in Pampanga. “We will open at once eight branches in Angeles City,” he says, referring to the new grilled chicken chain, which will offer bigger sizes than those sold by established competitors.

“We would like this to be known as the biggest chicken in town,” he says. “Our next target is maybe eight stores in Parañaque area.”

He will also bring Cebu-style or Aparri-style lechon to Luzon early next year.

Lo, who grew up in Binondo, Manila, is a believer in ‘blue ocean’ strategy. “You should go to where there is untapped market.

We don’t want to compete head-on with established companies. We are creating a new product, a new market,” he says.

Lo is optimistic that despite the ‘bird flu’ scare which dampened demand for poultry products early this year, the business will continue to flourish in the coming years, as the company introduces more products.

“We have a contingency plan, if that thing happens again,” he says.

He says for the Christmas season, Fresh Options offers a wide variety of products, including hams and ‘Paskong Pinoy’ items such as chicken, beef morcon, bagnet and crispy pata. “These are available at all Fresh Option stores,” he says.

Fresh Options operates 87 full stores and more than 80 express outlets that are all company-owned. These stores are located in Central Luzon, Metro Manila and Calabarzon. Lo says the plan is to penetrate other provinces in Luzon, including Cagayan and Isabela.

Lo does not consider franchising as a means of expansion at the moment, saying the company does not want to compromise quality. “We don’t use processed meats. Even our nuggets and tocino are all fresh meats,” he says.

He says an initial public offering is not yet on his mind. “At present, I can easily decide.

With the IPO, the decision process will be longer because of the many consultations involved,” he says.

To professionalize the company, Lo formed a board of directors, which includes top executives and members of his family. Lo’s Binondo-based family owns a company that runs Ketch department stores in Manila and Quezon City.

He says the company is still on investment and expansion mode, so the annual earnings are rolled over to support the growth of the business.

“We are looking at regional expansion. We are looking at Isabela and Cagayan. We are exploring,” he says. RDF is also looking are the OFW market in Asian countries, he says.

Lo says he values the contribution of his employees to the success of the company.

“Be careful with your people. Consider their needs to improve themselves. That is why we offer a lot of trainings. We encourage them to study,” he says. Roderick T. dela Cruz

ATENEO CLASS GLOWS GOLDEN WITH CHRISTMAS IN THEIR HEARTS THE Ateneo Alumni Association recently gave the Golden Jubilee aw a rd t o J o s e M a r i C h a n , a distinguished member of Luxid ’59 , ’63 , ’67 whose bond of brotherhood extends from the grade school class to high school and through college.

Jose Mari (Economics ’67) is widely known for his platinumhits and original music and is also highly regarded in business circles.

Joe Mari acknowledges starting his music journey at Ateneo, when he joined the Whiffenpoofs with the Alabanzas, Red Garcia, Boy Nograles and Tony Purisima.

At the homecoming on Dec. 2 , class members stepped on stage to sing the ubiquitous, much-loved hit “Christmas in our Hearts “ with the composer and original vocalists, classmate Joe Mari and daughter Liza.

In this season of jubilation , the Ateneo Class ’59 , ’63 , ’67 have the generous spirit of Christmas in their hearts .

Many, if not all , class alumni have led solid lives, engaged in meaningful work, built families and contributed to society for the greater glory of God (AMDG- Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam ).

Many of their teachers have received awards, including national artists Rolando Tinio and Bienvenido Lumbera.

The class has taken pains to ensure that all those who have gone ahead are remembered. A class certificate on the 50th year will also be given to the families of those who have passed on.

Like others, alumni of Luxid Class ’59 , ’63 , ’67 have also merited distinctions as they left the hill. A number went to law school including Ateneo and UP, medical school and pursued further studies here and abroad .

In the bar examinations of 1971, members of Class Luxid (Lux in Domino), Henry Villarica garnered first place, followed by Prospero Nograles . Virgilio del Rosario placed 7th . Badong Tuy is a member of the New York bar while Butch Tonolete gained a law degree in his 60s and is a member of the Virginia bar.

Other notable lawyers include Willie Villareal, Mario Oreta, NoletLadrido, the late Deng Bautista among others .

In the field of medicine, Dr. Chuck Chuachiaco gained widespread respect as a leading cardiologist specially in bypass surgery. Johnny Nanagas , undersecretary of Health and Director of the Philippine General Hospital contributed to improving pubic health services.

Dr Eduardo Mercado is an eminent neuro-surgeon .

Mike de Leon and Mel Chionglo reaped prestigious awards as outstanding film directors, joined

by Soc Jose in advancing the arts .

Luxidi have become elected officials. General Dan Francia has been with the Air Force. Two have joined the priesthood: Fathers Vic Salanga, S.J. and Joel Almendras of Cebu .

In the Cabinet, Roberto de Ocampo reaped prestigious international awards as top secretary of Finance. Freddie Antonio also became DBP CEO and Monetary Board member . Ruping Alonzo, who recently passed away, served as undersecretary of Neda and dean of the UP College of Economics .

SHOPEE LAUNCHES HOLIDAY CAMPAIGN TO LURE SHOPPERS Online shopping platform Shopee has launched a holiday campaign to engage more shoppers to use the platform especially during the Christmas season when gift-giving is more of a tradition.

On Nov. 11 to Dec. 25, Shopee Super Christmas Sale will offer huge discounts on popular gift categories ranging from health and beauty, home and living to mobiles and gadgets.

“This past two years had been really good to us and the company. And as part of the year-end celebration, we have launched the Christmas Super Sale not only to offer great savings but also to help shoppers beat the holiday rush as road traffic gets worse as Christmas nears,” said Shoppe chief operating officer Terence Pang.

Shopee will offer off-the-rack steals on Dec. 11 and 12, an event shoppers Shopee chief operating officer Terence Pang can look forward to as discounts are

expected to hit as much as 90 percent with P12 deals, giveaways, lash deals and a series of remarkable promotions.

Pa r t i c i p at i n g b ra n d s i n c l u d e Cosmetique Asia, Unilever Philippines, Timeless Manila, Coca-Cola, Polaroid, Imarflex, Indoplas and Infinix.

“2017 has been a great year for us Shopee and we would like to thank our customers, sellers and partners for their continuous support. Moving forward, we will continue to focus on improving our platform and diversifying our product assortment. We remain committed to helping brands and local entrepreneurs grow and continuously strive to push the boundaries of e-commerce to become the leading online shopping destination of choice in the region,” Pang said.

Pang is responsible for overseeing Shopee’s overall operations across the region. His five-year experience in the

e-commerce and finance sectors in Asia is a vital tool for growing Shopee across the region.

Wrapping up 2017, Shopee Philippines grossed about $500 million or 10 percent of the annualized gross merchandise value in all seven markets in Southeast Asia.

A Sea Limited company, Shopee mother unit realized GMV of about $5 billion in 2017 with about 80 million downloads, and over 180 million active listings by more than 4 million sellers which include 5,000 leading brands and distributors.

It was not too long ago, when Shopee was launched in Singapore in 2015 and since then it has made it way to the e-commerce markets of Malaysia, Thailand, Taiwan, Indonesia, Vietnam and the Philippines.

“Shopee has undergone tremendous transformation since we first launched,

and while we are proud of all that we have achieved, this is only the beginning. Shopee has always been committed to listening to the needs and preferences of our users, and we have worked to create a platform that is tailored to exactly do that. Whether it’s providing a fuss-free and convenient shopping experience for buyers, or offering a reliable and secure platform for brands and budding entrepreneurs to expand their online presence, Shopee strives to continue improving the lives of the region’s customers and businesses with technology,” said Pang.

For the Philippine market, Pang said the biggest focus would be how to bring more buyers into the platform. “ The Philippines has this huge potential to grow e - commerce.

Exposure to mobile phone has seen the increase of app utilization for online selling platforms like Shopee,” he said.

Business

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2017 business@manilastandard.net

A HEARTY AND HOMEY PARTNERSHIP

MPIC SPARKS INVESTMENTS IN PH HEALTHCARE INDUSTRY

By Joel D. Lacsamana

NutriAsia seals a homey and hearty partnership with Avida Land, starting with the successful Datu Puti Perfect Adobo Challenge during Avida’s Grand Neighbor Day.

ALEADING condiment manufacturer and top-of-mind real estate providers have teamed up to bring something unique to the table?

For NutriAsia, Avida and Amaia, it is about forging a unique partnership that aims to cultivate—and celebrate—the Filipino’s sense of family and community.

Dang de Leon, corporate marketing consultant at NutriAsia, says the collaboration will allow the two brands to serve their common objective of uplifting Filipino families’ quality of living through an exciting lineup of projects.

“One might say that a partnership between the Philippines’ top condiment producer and the country’s leading property developer was, until recently, quite unlikely. But if you look closely as we did, you will note that NutriAsia, Avida, and Amaia both aspire to make Filipino families happy and content through its quality product offerings,” de Leon says.

“For over 25 years now, NutriAsia has been steadfastly helping to provide authentic Filipino meals at the dining table, which in turn sparks happy bonding moments among family members. We know we can do more to celebrate the Filipinos’ love for family and we can’t think of a better partner than Avida and Amaia bring this about,” she adds.

Tess Tatco, Avida Land’s head of corporate marketing, affirms this, saying that the partnership with NutriAsia is meant to encourage shared interests among members of the community and inspire a delightful and wholesome family life through hearty meals and quality homes.

“We have been excited about this collaboration because we know that with a brand like NutriAsia we can do more together in building better and inspired communities,” says Tatco.

“With the tandem of Avida and NutriAsia committed to providing thoughtfully conceived homes and quality food products, we look forward to more productive endeavors in the coming times,” she adds.

To jump-start their exciting tie-up, Avida Land successfully held its Grand Neighbor Day on Oct. 28 in its various communities nationwide, with NutriAsia adding more flavor to the special event through its Datu Puti #PerfectAdobo Challenge, wherein contestants came up with their most creative and innovative versions of adobo using the newest Datu Puti Adobo Series Sauces.

“We at NutriAsia believe that adobo evokes the warmth of a Filipino home in the same manner that the dish embodies the values that Avida communities hold dear—adherence to tradition and a sense of harmony between different‘flavors’,”says de Leon.

To spice up the Grand Neighbor Day event, NutriAsia also brought its Joy Ride! Food Truck and served Avida homeowners with delectable Filipino comfort dishes made using quality NutriAsia products.

NutriAsia will likewise welcome new Avida and Amaia Land homeowners at the turnover of properties with Homecooking Starter Kits—special packages containing essential NutriAsia products that will aid them in preparing homey and hearty meals.

“Moving into their dream homes is a significant time for Filipino families,” de Leon says. “NutriAsia would like to make this important milestone more memorable for Avida Land’s new homeowners by gifting them with our Homecooking Starter Kits, which contain essential cooking ingredients that they can use in whipping up delicious meals for their families.”

NutriAsia is a powerhouse of beloved, timeless and iconic Filipino food brands, including Datu Puti, UFC, Silver Swan, Papa, Jufran, Mafran Mang Tomas, and Golden Fiesta.

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UGUSTO Palisoc Jr., the president and chief executive of Metro Pacific Hospital Holdings Inc., firmly believes that doctors should not be bothered by worries on the “management” side of the healthcare business.

“In the past and even up to now, some hospitals require that doctors invest in shares of the hospital in order to be able to practice,” said the chief of Metro Pacific Investment Corp.’s holding company for healthcare investments. “ We believe that money should not be a requirement for a doctor to practice in any hospital, because it deprives our customers from being treated by many young and good doctors who may not have the funds to invest in shares,” he said.

“Doctors and medical staff in the MPIC hospital group are assured of working with adequate equipment, modern technology, and a professional management atmosphere, where they can focus on curing and attending to our patients,” he told Manila Standard.

Indirectly, Palisoc claimed this management template has provided Filipino nurses, pharmacists, physical therapists, medical technologists and other medical professionals with a greater reason to stay and work in the Philippine heath sector.

“Dozens of young managers and nursing staff have decided to stay in the country, despite calls from foreign employers because of the career growth and brighter future they see with us now,” he said. “This is because they have found greater motivation to give the very best of themselves here, where they can remain close to their families.”

Sunrise industry Interestingly, the Philippines’ health sector, more than a decade ago, seemed hardly a candidate as a future sunrise industry.

Various private family-owned hospitals, as well as government-run medical facilities were in bad financial straits, and many did not seem to be in a position to modernize their operations, nor spend precious capital expenditures on cutting-edge heathcare for their patients.

Things changed in 2007, when Palisoc, then an executive of MPIC, was approached by chairman Manuel Pangilinan, and asked: Should he (Pangilinan) accept a directorship at the Makati Medical Center?

The hospital was then in dire financial difficulties, and on the brink of bankruptcy.

Palisoc recalled his reply: “If you accept the directorship, I am sure they will next ask for money to help save them, and I don’t think we should invest. It’s going down fast, we don’t know anything about the hospital business, and I seriously doubt if that hospital is savable, so I think you should decline”.

MVP, known to relish challenges, did the exact opposite. He also promptly put Palisoc in charge of the hospital group.

It so happened, the silver-haired Palisoc misread the health industry’s overall potential. The sector has now emerged as the new sunrise industry, just like the business process outsourcing companies when they began to redefine information technology during the early part of the new millennium.

Growth and investment activity has marked the sector as the government proceeds with its goal of providing universal healthcare to the population.

Today, both the public and the private health sectors, are modifying their systems and forward planning accordingly in order to align with governmental, regulatory and societal shifts.

Nowhere is this growth more apparent than in the surge of mergers, alliances and acquisitions over the past several years which has encouraged investors to participate in a growing pillar of Philippine economic growth, the health industry.

The multi-million-peso infusion by the private sector in terms of joint ventures with public hospitals, as well as capex investments in greenfield projects and modern medical facilities, have meant crucial support for the Duterte government’s ‘Build, Build, Build’ program.

Dubbed “Dutertenomics”, the mantra of Digong”s economic managers seeks to construct modern bridges and roads, mega subway systems, and world-class airports and seaports in the country the next 10 years.

Hefty capex A notable example is MPIC’s Hospital Holdings which plans to spend P10 billion to P12 billion in capex to fund expansion plans in the next five years.

MPIC was the first company to believe in the bottom line potential of the healthcare sector when it began

MPIC hospital group chief Augusto Palisoc Jr. believes hospitals could be a good business, “if managed well.”

acquiring hospitals in Metro Manila and the rest of the country. The conglomerate’s hospital group is actively on the lookout for more investments in the healthcare sector after getting GIC, Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund through its private equity arm, as a strategic partner for the hospital business.

Currently, it has acquired as many as 14 hospitals to achieve its goal of hitting 5,000 beds. The company last year said it would invest in 10 to 15 hospitals to add around 2,000 more beds and expand existing medical facilities by another 700 to 800 beds to increase its presence in the sector across the country.

MPIC’s hospital portfolio include St. Elizabeth Hospital in General Santos City, West Metro Medical Center in Zamboanga City, Davao Doctors Hospital, Makati Medical Center, Asian Hospital & Medical Center, Cardinal Santos Medical Center, Manila Doctors Hospital, Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, De Los Santos Medical Center, Marikina Valley Medical Center, Jesus Delgado Memorial Hospital,, Riverside Medical Center in Bacolod, Central Luzon Doctors Hospital in Tarlac and Sacred Heart Hospital in Malolos, Bulacan.

‘Challenging ourselves’ Palisoc said his team decided to “challenge” themselves after turning Makati Med around more than a decade ago. “We asked: if there were hospital chains in other countries, perhaps we can also do the same in our own homeland. So started our quest to build the first nationwide chain of hospitals,” he said.

“In Mindanao, we offered ourselves as a solution to shareholder groups that could not see eye-to-eye for many years, which is detrimental to any hospital or company, for that matter,” he recalled. “We offered ourselves as a solution, by acquiring the shares of one group and working well with the remaining group, resulting in the improvements and the facelifting of Davao Doctors Hospital.

The same strategy worked with a religious organization that owned Cardinal Santos Medical Center. It was looking for a new operator, and selected the MPIC hospital group in in 2009. “We immediately built a new parking building, added equipment and improved processes,” Palisoc said.

“We built the first Philippine Center for Advanced Surgery in this hospital, which would allow Filipino doctors to not need to go abroad to train for minimally invasive surgery. Incidentally, our Lessor now enjoys much higher rental ncome, enabling them to better fulfill their own missions and religious advocacies.”

In the Visayas, a family decided to sell a majority stake to the hospital group, and retire from the day-to-day management of their hospital. The hospital group acquired their shares and installed a

professional CEO. “Most of the family is now enjoying retirement, while we are now constructing a new building that will expand the capacity of Riverside Medical Center to better service its community in the island of Negros,” Palisoc said.

In Sta. Mesa, a hospital owned by the Sisters of the Holy Spirit was losing money because of unrealistic labor costs and union issues. Palisoc said his team came in upon their request, to operate the hospital under a new company, hired employees at the correct salary scale and professionalized operations. “The Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital has returned to profitability and is now a sustainable business that has up to date equipment, facilities and practices,” he said.

“Last year, they launched a newly renovated pediatric floor now being enjoyed by many children and their parents, both for private and charity patients; as well as an Outpatient pharmacy that guarantees low cost and high quality medicines,” he said.

Lesson learned Palisoc said his team’s experience with turning Makati Med and other ailing medical facilities around afforded them key lessons about the heath care business.

“Hospitals could also be a good business, if managed well,” he said. “Even if profit margins are not that high, it is a rather stable business.”

Palisoc said they learned that the country has many good, talented doctors, and medical professionals. “They just need a well-managed, well-equipped hospital to practice in,” A less obvious observation, Palisoc said, which soon came to light, was that “most hospital owners and managers were trained in medicine, but not quite in management.”

Perhaps the most profitable piece of wisdom the group culled is that “aside from opportunities to improve individual hospital operations, there could be more significant benefits from synergies if we could organize a group of hospitals.”

Finally, Palisoc offered a truism which he fervently believes in to this day: “a professionally-run hospital group could really make a contribution to improving the quality of life of our fellow Filipinos,” he said.

Helping communities where health care is a problem Palisoc claimed that in less than a decade, the Metro Pacific Hospital Group has become the largest private hospital group in the country comprising 14 premiere hospitals, three primary care clinics, two healthcare colleges, and 1 cancer center, with a total in-patient capacity of almost 3,300 beds, a pool of 7,600 doctors, 6,600 nurses, and 10,500 employees, all focused on serving approximately 2,700,000 patients a year.

FINANCIAL TECHNOLOGY TO PUSH ISLAMIC MICROFINANCE

FINTQ managing director Lito Villanueva

FINANCIAL technology-driven Shari’ahcompliant microfinance is key to accelerating financial inclusion in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, an executive of FINTQ, the financial technology arm of Voyager Innovations, said.

Speaking at the 7th Global Islamic Microfinance Summit in Istanbul, Turkey, FINTQ managing director Lito Villanueva said there is a need to push for an enabling framework for Islamic microfinance in the Philippines in order to break down the barriers in accessing digital finance.

“We are not telling the whole story of financial inclusion if Islamic banking and finance are absent in the equation. There is an urgent need to push for necessary legislation, infrastructure support, and technology enablement for Islamic microfinance,” said Villanueva, the only Filipino and non-Muslim fintech executive

included in the roster of speakers.

In the Philippines, around 5.6 percent of the population are Muslims, with a geographic concentration in the ARMM, composed of five provinces, two cities and 116 municipalities.

“ARMM has so much potential given its resource-rich landscape. Combined with its industrious population, the region has huge economic potential. However, from the time it was established in August 1989, ARMM remains the poorest region in the country with less than 70 percent of the adult population still unbanked and underserved. There are only 20 banks and 28 ATMs servicing almost 4 million ARMM residents. Not a single bank there is Shari’ah compliant. That’s why there is an opportunity to better serve and enable the communities with Islamic microfinance, enabled by financial

technology,” said Villanueva.

In line with the situation at ARMM, Villanueva calls on industry players to support the creation of a task force whose duty is to look into establishing a Shira’ahcompliant Islamic microfinance framework.

The task force was proposed to be led by the existing Microfinance NGO Regulatory Council, which was created by Republic Act No. 10693 or the Microfinance NGOs Act. The council is chaired by the Securities and Exchange Commission together with the Department of Finance, Department of Social Welfare and Development and the Department of Trade and Industry, and in partnership with the Bangsamoro Transition Commission and the National Commission for Muslim Filipinos. “ We support financial inclusion initiatives, and we look forward to consider proposals from like-minded

fintech companies regarding Islamic microfinance in the country. This is something that we are willing to look into,” said SEC chairperson Teresita Herbosa.

FINTQ, together with its partners, have recently launched a national movement called KasamaKA to further drive financial inclusion in the countryside. KasamaKA (loosely translated to mean as financial inclusion) aims to provide greater access to financial services to every Filipino. The initiative is supported by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, SEC,and the Insurance Commission.

“Deploying Shari’ah-compliant Islamic microfinance, initially in Marawi, would be more meaningful, impactful, and sustainable socio-economic intervention that could help alleviate poverty and promote peace and development in the region,” Villanueva said.

Tech & Gadgets

B3

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2017 rumallari@thestandard.com.ph

SHOW, VISIT AND WIN A GADGET AT THE ARK Indra, one of the exhibitors, showcasing Virtual Reality

MTECH ’17 SHOWCASES MERALCO'S TECHNOLOGY INNOVATIONS

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OR two weeks (beginning Dec. 4) until Dec. 15, The ARK by UnionBank will be hosting its “Show, Visit and Win a Gadget Promo,” inviting the public to experience the country’s first fully digital bank branch plus the chance to join a raffle with premium gadgets at stake.

Up for grabs are a Sony PlayStation4 slim, a Sony Xperia XZ premium mobile phone, a Sony RXO ultra-compact shockproof and waterproof digital camera, a Sony portable wireless BLUETOOTH WiFi Speaker and a 43-inch Sony LED Ultra HD Smart Android TV. There are 10 easy ways to join the raffle:

1. Download the UnionBank Online mobile app and set up an account for 1 raffle entry; 2. Pay your bills for a minimum of P500 using the UnionBank Online mobile app, 1 raffle entry; 3. Transfer funds for a minimum amount of P500 using the UnionBank Online mobile app, 1 raffle entry; 4.

Buy a minimum of P50 worth of load through the UnionBank Online mobile app, 1 raffle entry; 5.

Give a review of the UnionBank Online mobile app, 1 raffle entry; 6. Post a photo on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram while at The ARK with the hashtag #TheARKByUnionBank, 1 raffle entry; 7. Use your UnionBank credit card for a minimum of P3,000 purchase (charge slip required as proof of transaction), 1 raffle entry; 8. Try the VR auto showroom at The ARK, 1 raffle entry; 9. Apply for a UnionBank Credit Card at The ARK, 5 raffle entries; and 10.

Open a bank account at The ARK, 5 raffle entries

Multiple transactions mean more chances of winning.

All transactions must be validated by a certified bank promo representative at The ARK, Ground Floor, Insular Life Building, Ayala Avenue corner Paseo de Roxas, Makati City.

Five winners will be drawn via electronic randomizer on Dec. 18, 5 p.m. at The ARK. Winners may automatically bring home their prizes upon presentation of a government-issued ID or a company ID that is valid for six months.

Prizes are transferrable but not convertible to cash.

The ARK’s “Show, Visit and Win a Gadget promo” is open to all Filipino residents, 18 years old and above, except employees of UnionBank, its affiliates, subsidiaries, advertising/PR agencies and suppliers, including their relatives up to the second degree of consanguinity or affinity.

GOSPCE: FINDING SPACES FOR WORK NOW EASIER FINDING, reserving and utilizing spaces for work and play activities just got easier and more exciting with GoSPCE, a booking and hospitality operations platform that brings together owners of spaces with an increasingly large market interested in booking them.

“GoSPCE is both a discovery and booking experience for consumers as well as a full end-to-end hospitality operations automation platform for space owners,” said Randy McGraw, cofounder of ALTUS Digital Capital—the owner-operator private equity firm that is driving the regional expansion of GoSPCE.“Owners of any type of space that can be used for work or play purposes can list, shape, price and market their spaces—whether conventional or unexpected spaces—define what activities can be conducted there, and find interested consumer segments by using online marketing tools offered by the platform or via our own marketing in their behalf.”

GoSPCE has a billing gateway and automated check-in/check-out function that enables a seamless transaction for both Guest and Host.

What Makes GoSPCE Beneficial to Hosts?

Any commercial establishment (with a valid TIN) that has available spaces for work or play purposes will find huge value in GoSPCE. These include coworking space operators with single

desks and rooms to rent, hotels with spacious meeting rooms, open areas and pools, bars with unused second floors, restaurants with function rooms or dead space between lunch and dinner seatings, building owners with parking lots that can double as a practice space for teams or bands, or an open field that can be repurposed as a soccer pitch. We welcome any commercial space that can be used for work or play.

By using the platform, Hosts not only run their operations smoothly but provide a better customer experience through the following: • Full control of shaping, defining, and pricing their spaces • Fully automated and secure booking and payment process for guests • Real-time discounting tools to conduct targeted sales and manage inventory • In-app communication tools to reach guests both during and after their stay • Marketing and selling in-house-value add services, transacting and fulfilling the orders through the app • Permissions based dashboard analytics to understand guest behavior and requirements better It currently has over 400 Hosts have signed over 4,900 different types of spaces onto GoSPCE. These range from large corporateHostssuchastheCravingsGroup and the Bistro Group, hotels like EcoHotels, and unconventional Hosts like Felipe & Sons,

GoSPCE launch photo with (from left) Randy McGraw, co-founder and managing director ALTUS Digital Capital; Pavan Gidwani, founder ALTUS Capital Partners; Liam Mendoza, VP and chief operating officer; ALTUS Digital Capital; and Ben Sevillla, co-founder and chairman ALTUS Capital Partners

with a second floor that boasts a space with a bar that can be used for product launches, corporate training sessions, and other work or play purposes.

By the end of Q2 2018, any hotel, co-working space operator, hostel, managed service apartment or other hospitality-centric operator will be able to fully automate every aspect of their operation via the GoSPCE platform.

What Makes GoSPCE Beneficial to Guests?

Millennials are always looking for new experiences. Independent workers

like freelancers, business owners, startup companies, or any creative business team can use GoSPCE to find their ideal place to work - whether for an hour, a day, or a week, or a month. Corporate HR departments can find temporary space for offsite or permanent establishments. Small groups of creatives who prefer multiple locales for inspiration can find a lot of value in GoSPCE. Business people from overseas can find one day to one month type of work accommodation. The list is large and growing in line with the broader wave of “place shifting” in work activities.

LIMITED EDITION RED OPPO F5 6GB NOW IN PH OPPO just made a mark in the selfie-centric Philippines with the launch of the new OPPO F5 6GB in limited edition red color.

The new smartphone is set to raise the bar high with an upgraded 6GB RAM for the ultimate multi-tasking, along with bigger internal storage of 64GB. Aside from having strong technical specifications, the OPPO F5 6GB is a fashionable statement phone with the company’s flagship color red as the iconic symbol to have this season.

Performance Beyond Concern Carrying the latest 2.5GHz Octa-Core Processor paired with a future-ready 6GB RAM, it’s ready to take on any challenges in today’s internet-revolving world. Storage is now also bumped up to 64GB internal for more photos and videos ready to be taken with the 20MP A.I. Front Camera and 16MP Rear Camera. Connectivity won’t be a problem as it comes with a dedicated tri-slot tray for two nano-sim cards open to all networks, and a MicroSD card of up to

256GB expandable storage. Finishing tasks will also be made easier with the F5 6GB’s 3,200mAh battery for an all-day smartphone usage.

Flagship Features The OPPO F5 6GB carries consumercentric flagship features such as the 6” FHD+ 18:9 Ratio Full Screen Display for the most immersive visual experience. Security is also upgraded with Speedy Facial Unlock to quickly access your smartphone by de-

tecting the face of the owner and unlock the phone, this is on-top of the fingerprint sensor at the back for double security.

With the latest ColorOS 3.2, the F5 features the easiest smartphone usage with intuitive controls and multi-tasking features such as the split-screen for opening two apps in one screen. Accompanied with other software features like anti-distraction features when gaming like avoiding interrupting calls, SMS, and even unnecessary notifications.

Stand Out from the Crowd The OPPO F5 6GB is a phone that can represent yourself, stand out among the rest with its strong red color and silver chrome finishes. In a light package of 154g and a minimized 18:9 6”screen, it’s sleek and perfect to carry for anyone.

“The new OPPO F5 6GB shows that a smartphone is not just powerful, but can also be a lifestyle statement with its loud and stylish red color. We’re sure that people will adore our outstanding A.I. Beauty Tech-

nology selfies along with its upgraded RAM and storage in a standout color,” said Brand Marketing Manager Stephen Cheng.

Arena Of Valor x OPPO F5 6GB In addition, the OPPO F5 6GB is also ideal for mobile gaming. With every purchase of the F5 6GB, customers are entitled to a free Joker character in Arena of Valor, the fast-growing mobile game by Garena. Customers will also get a chance to win more in-game items through lucky draws in the coming weeks.

Watch out as well for tournaments here in the Philippines. Make sure to watch Arena of Valor and tune-in to OPPO Philippines Facebook page for more details soon.

Exclusively available at OPPO concept stores nationwide, the limited edition OPPO F5 6GB will be available starting December 9, 2017 for Php21,990. It comes with a free Olike Bluetooth speaker worth Php2,990.

For more exciting updates, stay tuned on OPPO’s Facebook page https://www. facebook.com/OPPOPH/

THE Manila Electric Company (Meralco)’s digital transformation is becoming a reality with the country’s largest power utility adopting new technologies to deliver enhanced customer experience and improve grid reliability.

This update was given by Meralco Chief Technology Advisor Gavin D. Barfield during the third Meralco Technology and Innovation Summit (MTECH) recently held at the power utility’s headquarters in Pasig City.

Bar field’s keynote presentation dubbed ‘Journey to Tomorrow’ showed the audience what Meralco has achieved over the past few years as it looked to refresh its IT systems, deliver a digital customer experience and embark on the development of a “Smart Grid’.

“Meralco has invested heavily in new technologies as we undergo a digital transformation of our company.

We will soon be launching a whole new digital customer experience more suited to the next generation of customers – the digital natives. We are also developing mobility solutions and adding more sensors, automation, and smart meters to our network to improve reliability and enable the integration of renewables,” he said.

Barfield added: “We have made great progress but we cannot afford to stand still. Technology moves at a rapid pace and we must look at new disruptive technologies such as Blockchain, Augmented and Virtual Reality, Edge Computing, Robotics, Internet of Things and Artificial Intelligence to deliver the next wave of improvements for our customers.”

MTECH 2017 also included FORGE, a cybersecurity competition that aims to measure the readiness and hone the cybersecurity defense skills of IT professionals. Held during the first two days of the summit, FORGE is aligned with Meralco Chairman Manny V. Pangilinan’s belief that there is a need to strengthen cybersecurity within the country. It provided participants handson experience of cyber-attacks based on real business scenarios.

Another highlight was the MTECH 2017 Booths and Exhibit showcased at the Meralco Lopez Building Lobby during the first three days of the event. The exhibit aimed to equip participants with a better understanding and appreciation of the power industry by bringing together different technology vendors from around the world to showcase the latest products and services. Companies such as DellEMC, VMWare, Fujitsu, HPE Aruba, Indra, PCCW Solutions, Salesforce, Microsoft, NTT Data, Capgemini, GE, Schneider Electric, Trends and Technologies, Pazifik Power Inc., Hitachi, and Lenovo, enabled participants to try out the latest technologies including Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality.

Pocket sessions were held at the Meralco Mini Theater featuring speakers from local and globally-renowned tech firms who discussed new disruptive technologies and innovations, as well as the challenges and opportunities faced by the utilities sectors and other companies in the new digital world.

Speakers at the event included representatives from CapGemini, IBM, Facebook, Gartner, Hitachi, CISCO, SAP, Pivotal, Consensys, NTT Data, HPE Aruba, and IPEC. In addition, Meralco showcased its latest innovations including the soon-to-be launched customer experience engine, new HR and collaboration tools, a new mobility solution for field crews, a new safety app and Artificial Intelligence chatbots.

Meralco subsidiaries Customer Frontline Solutions, Radius and MServ were also at hand to highlight new products and services.

B4

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2017 Riera U. Mallari, Editor rumallari@thestandard.com.ph

TECH & Gadgets

GORENJE: SIMPLIFIED LIFE

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ORENJE, a European manufacturer of high-quality kitchen appliances, has opened its doors to the Filipino market, unveiling its first showroom in the country at 165 Legazpi Street, Legazpi Village, Makati City.

At their new store, customers can find a wide range of top-of-the-line products representing household appliances such as cookers, ovens, refrigerators, dishwashers, hobs, and hoods.

The new showroom is part of Gorenje’s plan to establish its presence in major Asian markets.

“Gorenje has been taking steps to enter local markets in Southeast Asia including Singapore, Indonesia and now the Philippines,” said Ignatius David, president of IODHome Inc, Philippine distributor of Gorenje.

Ignatius noted that in the region, the European brand started off in Shanghai, Beijing and other cities in China, and eventually found success in Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Thailand.“We hope to continue to spread the brand’s philosophy of a life simplified with home solutions for families in the Philippines.”

Gorenje has always been a brand that is readily associated with durability, efficiency and energy savings.

With high-quality materials that undergorigorousmanufacturingprocesses, their appliances are technologicallyadvanced to make life more convenient for customers.

Your home defined by you

Homes reflect their owners. In any individual’s home, each space has meaning and each piece of furniture has a story. This is what internationally-acclaimed French designer,

Gorenje offers a wide range of products and small appliances, built with the finest technologies and designed by the most unique creators. Inset shows Ignatius O. David (left), President of IOD Home Inc. and Adrien Mousset, Head of Sales Gorenje AEC.

Philippe Starck, tries to capture with the Gorenje by S+arck kitchen line.

Gorenje has partnered with one of the world’s most unique designers to create a line of kitchen appliances that allows home-owners to create their own beautiful experiences. Philippe Starck has made one iconic creation after another, designing everything from brilliant yachts to glamorous spaces like hotels and restaurants.

In collaborating with Gorenje, Starck creates minimalistic and versatile designs with sleek stainless steel and high-end reflective glass, which can easily match and reflect customers’ lifestyles and personalities.

Simplicity in complexity

Gorenje’s appliances are equipped with cutting-edge technologies to help make life more convenient for their customers. The brand has collaborated with creative French designer, Ora-ïto, to create a stylish collection that makes complex features simple through unique and innovative design.

Recognized by Louis Vuitton, Levi’s, Swatch, and Apple for his minimalist forms of elegance, Oraïto shares Gorenje’s philosophy of simplicity with his designer line marked by silver and black with clean and elegant lines. The Gorenje

by Ora-ïto collection brings the artist’s vision of a futuristic kitchen to life, simplifying sophisticated appliances by making complex functions and advanced operations appealing and user-friendly.

Enjoy a life made simple as Gorenje offers 30% off on all appliances until Dec. 31.

Visit the Gorenje showroom at 165 Legazpi St, Legazpi Village, Makati and discover beautifullydesigned, superior-quality appliances that are fit for your home.

Find out more about Gorenje on Facebook @gorenjeph or their website, gorenje.ph.

HUAWEI PHONES YOU CAN BUY THRU HOME CREDIT WATCHING videos, social media, browsing, photos—we always have something to do with our phones!

If you’re still attached to your outdated device but thinking of letting it go anytime soon, this Christmas season may be a perfect time to upgrade your phone. With so many options to choose from, we narrowed down your choices to the best ones that will fit your budget and serve you well—depending on the functionality you need. This season, try these Huawei phones as a gift to yourself!

Huawei Nova 2i: if you’re looking for superb display.

With a 5.9-inch screen and a slim, elegant design, Huawei Nova 2i is easy to carry as you watch your favorite series and other fun videos, or view photos on your device. Its FHD+ resolution screen transforms social media, reading books, playing games, and web brows-

camera makes it an essential tool for keeping track of all the colorful moments in your life, and with its special filters that can enhance the tiniest details to keep it realistic, you won’t miss a second in your life. With its low energy consumption, you can efficiently manage tasks and

ing. Priced for only P14,990, the phone’s 4GB RAM with 64GB internal memory can run multiple tasks efficiently. Plus, its quad camera setup (2 front, 2 rear) can effortlessly render and detect the depth-of-field of your photos.

Huawei GR5: if you’re a fun-seeker This stylish 5.5-inch phone has an octa-core processor that delivers balanced performance with high speed processing power. Huawei GR5’s 13MP

entertain yourself without having to recharge every once in a while. Priced at P11,990, you can get this perfect companion

for your life’s adventures.

Huawei Y7 Prime: if you’re a multitasker The HUAWEI Y7 Prime’s speedy Octa-core CPU and 3GB RAM allows you to run more apps at once so you can enjoy your entertainment needs or keep your tasks running smoothly… or both! Its 32GB that’s expandable up to 128GB gives you the freedom to save all your files on-the-go—all in this 5.5-inch device. With its all-new fingerprint sensor, the Y7 Prime lets you unlock your phone quickly, offering you a fast, secure, and convenient experience. Its 12MP camera comes with a special feature that lets you take quality photos under any lighting condition. The design of Y7 Prime makes it a stylish companion for all your multitasking needs, all for the price of P9,990.

Upgrading your phone may be the last thing on your mind if you have a tight budget, but

you’re in luck—they’re all under 20k. And Home Credit can make them even more affordable for you: even without a credit card, you can pay for it in 6 or 9 monthinstallments, at 0% interest.

If your phone has served its purpose and is now giving up on you, time to let go! And you need a prize for sticking with it through thick and thin. Reward yourself this Christmas with the upgrade you deserve. It’s easy on your budget, you can even give it as a gift to your family, friend, or that special someone.

AMIHAN, HYPERLEDGER JOIN FORCES FOR ASEAN ON Nov. 10, Amihan Global Strategies and Hyperledger, an open source consortium hosted by The Linux Foundation, launched the Philippines’ first-ever Blockchain Week, kicking off a long-term partnership to unlock the potential of blockchain, the distributed ledger technology that powers Bitcoin.

Amihan Global Strategies is a technology company that accelerates digital transformation.

Hyperledger brings the world’s best minds together to create opensource blockchain technologies for business. Together, the partners are utilizing blockchain to power breakthroughs in banking, retail, healthcare, media, and beyond.

Blockchain: The Next Digital Revolution A blockchain is a distributed ledger that allows people around the world to link their computing power to create permanent records of exchange and build systems that have trust, accountability, security and transparency at their core.

The implications go beyond finance. Blockchain technology has the potential to solve problems that run the gamut from storing health records to tracking ethical consumption, monetizing digital content, tackling voter fraud, and more.

“The possibilities are limitless,” said Winston Damarillo, Executive Chairman of Amihan Global Strategies. “Our ambition is to move beyond possibilities towards action, towards real innovations that can spur a new wave of economic opportunity in one of the fastest growing economic regions of the world.”

How to Disrupt Customer Loyalty and Digital Identity Amihan is a leader in turning large enterprises into digital pioneers. Among their innovations is the Nimble Wallet, a unified platform for holding digital assets including cash, points, vouchers, and digital currencies. Along with payments and remittance, the wallet enables businesses to incentivize customers by unifying disparate loyalty programs into one connected marketplace.

Amihan is also developing a blockchain-based universal ID that customers can use across different banks, businesses, and government institutions. “The idea is to develop a self-sovereign identity,” said Damarillo, “where every individual has full access over their data and can share it with organizations and people that they trust.”

“Ultimately, blockchain technology is about building more distributed, more accountable, and more open transaction networks and services. This will benefit companies and even everyday people,” said Brian Behlendorf, Executive Director of Hyperledger. “With Amihan’s partnership, we are excited to see new blockchain-based ASEAN solutions that will revolutionize the region, and the entire digital world.”

VIVO MOUNTS V7 RELAUNCH AT SM NORTH EDSA VIVO, one of the leading smartphone brands in the country today, held a re-launch of its latest offering from the V series.

The Vivo all screen phone V7, was first unveiled in a grand launch at the SM City Bacolod last Nov. 18, with Vivo influencer Boyband PH headlining the event.

The re-launch, which took place at the SM North Edsa Cyberzone Event Center last Nov. 28, was graced by performances

by R&B singer and Vivo influencer Julie Anne San Jose, plus newest all-male group One Up. The event was also hosted by the DJ and Vlogger Ashley Rivera.

The V7 re-launch was largely attended by members of the media from various networks and bloggers.

Hazel Bascon, Vice President of Vivo Philippines and Head of Sales welcomed the members

people, as the company continues its growth trajectory and international expansion by providing stylish and dynamic products to more consumers to show off their individuality and capture memories that is worth remembering.

The V7 reinforces Vivo’s leadership in selfies with its 24MP front-facing camera, which produces crystal-clear selfies. By keeping true-to-life color and Share your holiday spirit with Vivo’s Christmas selfie booth!

of the press and the audience in attendance.

Just in time for the holidays, Vivo is also mounting a special Christmas campaign to anchor the traditions of the most awaited holiday of the year and Vivo as a brand. The special Christmas-themed Vivo

booth bring holiday cheers to the brand’s loyal patrons. People who drop by the Vivo booth stand are also entitled to a prize upon completing their rounds in all of the featured booths.

The V7 is the result of Vivo’s on-going effort in understanding the needs of today’s young

contrast and a clear background at all times, V7 allows users to express themselves truly anytime, anywhere. Equipped with advanced technology, this phone is known for its exceptional photography features, screen quality and the overall product design.

Catch the Vivo All Screen Experience Mall Tours on the following days at your favorite malls: Dec. 8 to 10 at SM Calamba, Vivo enthusiasts may take their best Christmas selfie with Santa Claus at the Vivo Christmas Campaign Booth

Julie Anne San Jose takes a selfie with the crowd at the Vivo V7 Relaunch at SM North Edsa

SM Lipa and Festival Mall Alabang and Dec. 13 to 15 at Ayala Centrio.

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.

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2017 Isah V. Red, Editor /

Young Life

Bernadette Lunas, Issue Editor isahred@gmail.com.ph

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

12 BUDGET-FRIENDLY GIFTS FOR THE PEOPLE YOU WANT TO BE MERRY

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HEY made your year merry in more ways than one so you want to give them a present this Christmas. But, hey, you don’t need to spend all your Christmas bonus to get them a gift they will love. Here are 12 thoughtfully selected items that won’t burn a hole in your pocket; nothing above P5,000.

For the one who promises to be healthy next year

On top of his 2018 New Year’s Resolutions is to be more active, be a motivator and wrap an Atmos Fit Elite Smart Fitness Band. This fitness band monitors heart rate, measures sleep cycles, tracks steps, and receives call and message notifications.

P890 at Kimstore.

For the one who has all the latest gadgets

He has two mobile phones, a tablet, a gaming console, and an always-on lifestyle. Help him power up his devices while on-the-go with an efficient power bank such as Anker’s PowerCore Speed 10000 that charges devices in the shortest time possible. P2,295 at Anker stores and kiosks nationwide.

For the one who has already filed her vacation leaves

Give her a bag that can carry all her essentials for the quick getaways she has already planned next year. CabinZero 36L features minimalist design, waterproof outer material, several pockets and compartments, and can support up to 36 liters. P3,050 at CabinZero PH on Facebook.

For the one who does three coffee runs a day

He wants to save more money but he doesn’t want to drink instant coffee. The solution: Espro Travel Press where he can brew his coffee on the go, through its two-filter system that puts common French press to shame. P2,290 at Urbanize outlets.

For the one who brings important documents

For your boss who you know always has important papers in her bag, this Medium Bunker messenger bag from local brand Hide and Seek lets her organize her files, essentials, and personal belongings. It can even fit up to 13-inch Macbook Pro. P4,200 at The Park Fashion + Lifestyle, Shangri-La.

For the one who naps in the office

For the one who loves chocolates

Why give him one bar when you can give him four kinds of chocolates? Cadbury puts together its Cadbury Dairy Milk (15g), Cadbury 5 Star (15g), Cadbury Dairy Milk Honeycomb and Nuts (30g), and Cadbury Dairy Milk Oreos (40g) in a holiday stocking.

P95 in groceries nationwide.

For the one who’s always cold

He always asks you to turn up the thermostat and complains about it being cold outside while you’re sweating.

This long sleeve sweat full-zip hoodie is perfect for those mild “winters” in the office.

P1,490 at Uniqlo branches.

For the one who wears makeup all day

The beauty junkie friend of yours probably has all the latest makeup products.

So take a different route by wrapping a 40g tub of Human Nature Bare Necessity Cleansing Balm that gently but effectively gets rid of long-wearing makeup, dirt, and oil. P395 at Human Nature branches.

Local cosmetics label Ever Bilena launches its second 'Big Beauty Challenge,' a makeup tutorial video competition using Ever Bilena products

But you can buy that co-worker a few hours of sleep with Hibernap Napcard. The card comes with 12 hours of nap time plus freebies (blanket, eye covers, ear muffs) worth P1,149 that they can avail at Hibernap, a relaxation hub in Makati City. P1,399 at Hibernap Makati.

For the one who loves colorful surprises

Does she love makeup and surprises? This NYX limited edition Lippie Countdown Advent Calendar combines that two things in a matte black box with 24 individual compartments containing 24 lipsticks from various NYX lippie lines. P2,900 at beautymnl.com.

For the one who adores pink and frills

This cute wide flounced top from H&M is the perfect cute top for the cute girl in your life.

P1,990 at H&M stores.

For the one who wants to be jedi

Walk like a jedi in Sperry Star Wars collection, launched in honor of the 40th anniversary of the release of the first film in the franchise.

These Droid Cloud slip-ons feature C-3PO and R2-D2 wandering through the barren deserts of Tatooine. P3,795 at Sperry outlets.

A MAKEUP TUTORIAL VIDEO WORTH P100,000

LOCAL cosmetics label Ever Bilena is calling vloggers, beauty enthusiasts, and aspiring and professional makeup artists in the Philippines to produce a makeup tutorial video and get a chance to win P100,000.

For the second year of “Ever Bilena’s Big Beauty Challenge,” participants have to create a video using Ever Bilena products following a specific weekly theme. The video must run from one to three minutes and show participants applying makeup on themselves; using models is not allowed.

The weekly theme will be posted every Friday on the Ever Bilena Cosmetics Facebook page. All entries must be uploaded

by Thursday, 11:59 p.m. on the participant’s Facebook page

with the hashtags #EBBigBeautyChallengeYear2 and #everbilena. They can submit as many videos as they wish.

One winner will be chosen every week and will receive P15,000 cash. All weekly winners will compete in the grand finals. The contest will run from December 15 until February 22, 2018. This year’s “Big Beauty Challenge” winner will receive P70,000 cash and P30,000 worth of Ever Bilena products.

Criteria for judging are: Ever Bilena products used in the video, 20 percent; creativity, 40 percent; makeup executions and skills, 20 percent; and most number of views and shares, 20 percent.

Visit www.everbilena.com.ph or www.facebook.com/everbilenacosmetics to know more.

Young Life

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2017 isahred@gmail.com

RECHARGE

AT THIS NAPPING STUDIO IN MAKATI Text by Bernadette Lunas Photos by Rex Perzeus F. Sardinia

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T’S not unusual for Brian Dera and Candice Martelino to sleep in the car during lunch break to get a boost of energy to tackle the remaining hours of their workday.

“We’ve been doing that for the past years. Because usually, especially on a Monday when we had activities on the weekend, we always find ourselves feeling tired and sleepy during midday that we needed a place where we can rest,” relates Dera and Martelino, who work in a bank in Makati City.

But the two bankers admit vehicle is not the safest place to squeeze in a snooze. So the frequent “nappers” thought of putting up a place where they and other people like them can doze off in peace.

In October this year, Dera and Martelino opened Hibernap, a relaxation hub in Legaspi Parkview Condominium along Legazpi St. cor. C. Palanca St. in Makati City.

The business aims to provide a safe and quiet spot for professionals working in the central business district to get a power nap.

According to the US National Sleep Foundation, a 20- to 30-minute nap improves mood, alertness, and performance. Napping, it says, also relaxes and rejuvenates a person.

At Hibernap, a 30-minute power nap costs P75, while an hour is P140. Guests can also shower for an additional fee.

Dera and Martelino ensure that the environment at Hibernap will help customers fall asleep better. They currently have eight "pods" in the form of recliner chairs, divided into three sections. Each pod is separated from the others with a thick curtain. The lights are dimmed, the air conditioning is set to a comfortably cool temperature, and a soft music plays in the background.

Fleece blankets, eye covers, and ear muffs are available for sale or for rent. And complimentary drinks await guests as they wake up. Nappers will be woken up by vibrating pagers when their time is up.

SNOOZE IN PEACE. Hibernap, the first

Hibernap co-founders and frequent 'nappers' Brian Dera and Candice Martelino

To ensure safety, the co-founders say they will soon be installing CCTV cameras inside and provide lockers for each guest’s valuables. “Eventually we’re going to upgrade our facilities,” says Dera.

Silence is strictly observed once inside the snooze studio. But what if a napper snores? Martelino says they simply alert them through a buzz on their pager. “But usually a guest tells us beforehand that they snore, so we place them in a corner spot,” she shares.

But Hibernap is not only for sleep-deprived mortals, as it’s also designed to provide a private space for those who want to kill time while waiting for the traffic to

relaxation hub or napping studio in Makati central business district, offers sleep-deprived individuals a safe and quiet place to take a power nap. The snooze studio currently has eight 'pods' in its first branch in Legaspi Parkview Condominium.

subside—a cheaper alternative to dining out or going to the cinemas.

“Here you can nap or browse through your phone or watch a movie (using earphones) in your personal space,” says Martelino.

Dera and Martelino, who are both first time business owners, plan to bring their unique concept to other locations, too. The

business partners share they are currently looking to establish a Hibernap in U-Belt, for students; and near bus stations, for passengers waiting for their scheduled trip.

Hibernap is open Monday to Friday, from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Call 0916-5048405 or go to their Facebook page @hibernap for inquiries and more details.

DO YOU THINK YOU’RE TOO YOUNG TO HAVE RETIREMENT SAVINGS? MOST likely not.

Television executive-turned-entrepreneur Jose Ramon “Monchet” Olives asserts that preparation is important to be able to enjoy retirement. “You have to take care of yourself as life can send you something unexpected,” he says.

However, many Filipinos have a “bahala na” attitude when planning the future. Some of us don’t realize the future doesn’t take care of itself until it’s too late. And as young, able, adventurous individuals, we tend to neglect the importance of building a retirement savings or future fund thinking we have more time to do so.

But we can spend our retirement years in comfort and not in anxiety if we started early. Olives notes how happiness is vital to wellbeing after retiring. Nowadays, he spends his time as the general manager and head designer of the their family’s handcrafted fan business.

Having a more secured future also allows you to do what you want. Award-winning author, newspaper columnist, and former

advertising executive Barbara Gonzales grew tired of the pressures associated with managing a large advertising agency so she opted for a less stressful, more meaningful, and productive retired life of making jewelry and conducting seminars on writing.

“Do what you want and have fun! Life should not end when you reach retirement age. It’s just the next phase,” enthuses Gonzales.

To help Filipinos strategically build a retirement fun, Axa Philippines offers Retire Smart.

Retire Smart is a savings approach that gradually build your future retirement fund with payments schemes “that are easy on the pocket,” while a portion of your premium is allocated to funds designed to grow your investment. It promises to maximize the growth of your savings while you’re young and automatically minimizes risk as you approach your target retirement age.

In addition, Retire Smart also has a life insurance coverage of five up to 25 times your annual basic premium, which will be given to your family in case of untimely demise.

Visit axa.com.ph to learn more.

Jose Ramon 'Monchet' Olives and Barbara Gonzales are happy retirees

Showbiz

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2017

PIA WURTZBACH’S CHOICE

By Nickie Wang

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CTRESS and model Pia Wurtzbach has become one of the most visible faces on TV and on social media since she won Miss Universe in 2015. Her life took a 360-degree-turn and brought her game and the well-meaning cause that she champions on the world stage.

Pop star and Manulife ambassador Sarah Geronimo

SARAH G AND JAMES REID GIVE BACK

Beauty queen Pia Wurtzbach puts her fame and popularity to good use traveling the world to promote HIV/Aids awareness

The 28-year-old beauty queen is known for her advocacy that aims to educate people on HIV and AIDS. And just recently, she graced the inaugural Love Gala, a charity and awards event for HIV-AIDS awareness in the Philippines, which proceeds will go to HIV-AIDS non-profit organizations for their life-saving initiatives.

During the event, her first HIV 101 educational video that calls on more people to make HIV testing a part of their health and wellness routine was launched, too.

It is safe to say that Pia is putting her fame to good use as she has been active using her global popularity to shine a spotlight on the advocacy.

“I’m still learning about this advocacy.

We are all students of HIV and Aids. I am not an expert but this is one of the ways where we can create awareness to combat the disease,” she said.

Pia is bubbly and fashionable in Bangkok International Airport

With her advocacy, she’s able to travel the world and spread awareness being UNAIDS Goodwill Ambassador for Asia and the Pacific. But just like everyone else who travels from one city to another, Pia also tries to enjoy each journey.

While based in the US during her reign, wearing the crown as Miss Universe allowed her to travel in places like Peru, Thailand, Indonesia, Canada, Ecuador, Thailand, Cayman Islands , Panama, Singapore and United Arab Emirates, to name a few. But which of these places is her favorite?

“I would have to say it’s New York because that’s where I stayed most of the time during my reign. I also had a great experience travelling to Lima, Peru. I love Bangkok and Tokyo. They are my personal favorite. And of course London because

my family is there,” she told Manila Standard.

For Christmas, Pia will be staying in Manila so she could also promote her comeback movie The Revengers Squad, which also stars Vice Ganda and Daniel Padilla. Then, she will fly to London to spend New Year with her family.

With her being a jetsetter, Pia is handpicked

by Smart Communications to promote a groundbreaking app that lets users connect to their favorite travel services without data roaming charges.

Designed as a one-stop portal, RoamFree gives users free instant access to up to 21 partner apps at their destination, even if they haven’t subscribed to a roaming data package.

With RoamFree, relevant travel information and services are right at your fingertips: you can easily check in your flights, reserve and confirm hotel accommodations, book rides, sign up for local tours, and check out top food spots, among many others, for a hassle-free getaway.

The app is now available for use in 26 destinations, including the United States, Australia, Canada, China, Hong Kong, Macau, Japan, Singapore, Thailand, Taiwan, and United Kingdom. It is also accessible for free in Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Albania, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Malta, Portugal, Romania, and the United Arab Emirates.

SOUL SISTERS. Pia with her fellow Miss Universe beauties Iris Mittenaere, Olivia Jordan and Nia Sanchez

‘DESTINED TO BE YOURS,’ LA LUNA SANGRE’ MOST TWEETED TV SERIES WITH the year almost over, social networking site Twitter has revealed the most tweeted moments in the Philippines for 2017.

According the list, which was unveiled on the microblogging site using the hashtag #ThisHappened, 7 out of 10 moments featured AlDub, MayWard, KathNiel, Nadine Lustre, BTS, and the Miss Universe pageant. Two of were national concerns while the remaining slot went to sports.

Maine Mendoza and Alden Richards’ Destined to be Yours was the most popular TV series among Twitter user according to the list.

When the pilot episode of the primetime romantic comedy aired on television, #AlDubNation produced over 4.6 million tweets. Fans of love team Maine and Alden were excited to see the two actors venture into the world of drama as they portrayed the roles of Sinag and Benjie, respectively.

Meanwhile, Maine was named Philippines’ most tweeted celebrity amid a four-month hiatus on the social media platform. Similarly, AlDudNation Festival, which generated over 1.1 million tweets, was one of the most tweeted

"Destined To Be Yours," Alden Richards and Maine Mendoza's first television series is named by Twitter Philippines as one of the most popular moments of 2017

moments in 2017.

The ongoing fantasy-action drama La Luna Sangre ranked second to the AlDub series. The TV series, which serves as the third installment of Lobo

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

LEADING international financial services group brand ambassadors Sarah Geronimo and James Reid created special moments with some of the company’s loyal customers as it celebrates its 110th anniversary in the Philippines.

The two Kapamilya stars and Viva artists are joining in Manulife’s journey of gratitude and giving by surprising loyal policyholders captured in a digital film available on the company’s Facebook page.

Sarah surprised Ronald, a businessman with an advocacy of promoting literacy by building container van libraries across the country.

“I was inspired by Ronald who has made it his mission to give back to those in need. It is an honor to be given the opportunity to let him know how much his efforts are appreciated,” said Sarah.

Meanwhile, James delivered a gift to Melanie and Richard, a couple who never had a chance to go on a honeymoon because they had to prioritize medical treatments for their firstborn.

“There is no greater love than a parent’s, and this is why I find Manulife’s gift for Melanie and Richard especially meaningful.

It recognizes the great sacrifices parents make for their children,” shared James.

Meanwhile, another celebrity ambassador Richard Yap, presented a gift to the Camillan Sisters of Marikina, who run a school for children with special needs. He also surprises Mr. de Dios, an 88-year-old policyholder, who has been a client since the 1970s and ensured that his children are protected with Manulife policies as well.

“Being a father, I empathize with the Camillan Sisters’ desire to create a nurturing environment for the children under their care,” said Richard. “I also see myself in Mr. De Dios, who spent his whole life ensuring his children will have secure futures. I am happy to have been invited to take part in this giving activity by Manulife.”

Following these surprises by Sarah, James and Richard, Manulife Phillipines will bring more gifts to policyholders in the coming days, until they have delivered “110 Thank Yous.”

Daniel Padilla and Kathryn Bernardo in a fan-made art for the top-rating and Twitter-trending series, "La Luna Sangre"

and the sequel to Imortal, stars Kathryn Bernardo, Daniel Padilla, Angel Locsin and Richard Gutierrez.

The hit horror-fantasy series immerses the public in the world of were-

wolves, vampires, and immortality. The show generated over 3 million tweets during its pilot week and more than a hundred hashtags were created in celebration of each episode.

Together with other celebrity ambassadors for Manulife, James Reid takes time to give out special gifts to the company's loyal policy holders

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sunday, december 10, 2017

Desiree Carlos, Editor

Pets

daycarlos28@yahoo.com

Keep your ChristMas Merry

By Keeping your pet saFe T hE holiday season is the most busy time for everyone.

pet tales

By desiree carlos

Due to one’s hectic schedule and the many chores during this season, pet owners might forget certain things that may harm their pets. here are some reminders: 1. Poinsettia is poisonous to dogs. Keep these beautiful plant and its red flowers away from dogs, especially from curious pups.

2. Pups and kittens love to chew on anything, specially when their teeth are coming out. Please keep those traditional Christmas tree ornaments that are sharp or can easily break into pieces out of your pet’s reach. if you can, please use big Christmas balls only. The rule is the dog’s toy should be bigger than your dog’s mouth. This applies to Christmas ornaments as well. You don’t want your dog choking on anything, specially during this holiday season.

3. if you can go without them during this season, do not put on lights on your Christmas tree or any part of the house where your pets stay. if you have to put Christmas lights, please put cord protectors on the electric line and keep the electric sockets hidden from their curious eyes, and their “busy” mouths and paws.

Male pups and dogs might pee on the electric socket so put protectors or keep these hidden from your pets. Be “creative.”

4. Fresh fig or pine leaves might fall off your Christmas wreaths or tree.

Please make sure you remove these from the floor or any surface immediately. Better yet, keep them outside the house or put them where your dogs or kittens do not stay.

5. Most fresh trees have a base with a chemical solution to keep the leaves fresh. it is best to avoid having one for Christmas. This chemical solution can be poisonous to your pets. Always read the care instructions.

Read precautions on the label before buying a fresh Christmas tree or wreath. if it says keep away from pets, just don’t buy them. it is not easy to monitor your pets or expect other household members to do so.

6. Keep those gold chocolate coins and other ornaments made of chocolate out of reach of pets. Please remind all members of the family again and again to make sure these are placed on areas where pets can not reach them. Better yet, put them in bowls and place the bowl in the middle of the table. Chocolate can cause organ damage in your pets.

My Furry Bestie

This corner features 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.

POLANE suffered a lot when she was just a kitten. she had a severe head injury and burns all over her small body. she was posted in Facebook for rescue but no one was responding then.

Manhil samper, with only a few pesos in her pocket, decided to rescue her and bring her to the vet. "it seemed like she was just waiting to die when i saw her at the taxi terminal.The drivers helped me clean her. Pinaso siya ng uling kaya puro uling ang katawan niya," Manhil says. she also gave the kitten water and cat food which Polane finished. "she was so hungry," Manhil recalls.

At the clinic, Polane underwent surgery twice. she is one brave kitten, a real fighter, this Polane.

Look at her now, she is such a beautiful cat. henry's poker face always makes visitors smile. he was days old when save Animals of Love and Light ((save ALL) rescued him from the pound in 2014. he grew up to be a playful, mischievous doggo who smiles a lot when he is running in the garden after "picking" the lock, meaning he was able to open his cage on his own again. That poker face is just for the cam.

sweety was a very weak and severely anemic, emaciated stray dog when she was rescued by save ALL in Quezon City in 2014. Today, she is a loved, spoiled furbaby of Mommy Melanie Aquino.

7. Keep those grapes away from your pets too. some believe one will attract prosperity if one has a bunch of grapes hanging on their doors and windows. But these grapes may fall off from the branch or will eventually dry up and fall. Grapes (and raisins) are also poison poisonous to dogs.

8. Please do not give cured ham to your pets. The ham smells so wonderful to both humans and pets. But it contains salitre or pre preservatives that are bad for your dog. (Even to you, actually. so, dear humans, please try to eat small amounts only if you can not avoid eating ham this Christmas season.)

9. if i you want to give apple to your dogs, please make sure to remove the core . This is not good for your dog.

10. Cherry is not recommended for dogs either. Keep them out of reach please.

11. Remember, most table food are bad for your dogs. They might have ingredients that can harm your dogs’s organs and skin: onion, garlic, salt, pepper, mushroom, fish sauce, soy sauce, oil, among others.

12. During this season, please ask your vet how to contact him or her in case of emergency. in case your dog accidentally eats poisonous food, please call your vet immediately.

Also, please keep a bottle of castor oil in your house. This induces vomiting. have a safe, merry holidays, everyone. Namaste!

ADURiNG or NEssA lost an eye when she was three months old after her sibling accidentally scratched her eye, says MG Quitevis Uno her Daddy Ed brought her to the clinic where she underwent an operation to remove the injured eye. Today, she is nine years old and can play and run around like a normal dog. Unfortunately, her Daddy Ed passed awaya 7 months ago.

How to Help a constipated dog

Nacho, nine-year-old shih tzu, loves drinking water so we make sure his water bowl is always near. Do wash the bowl everyday.

(First Of 2 Parts) CONsTiPATiON in dogs may be a symptom of a serious illness. This requires immediate medical attention and might require hospitalization.

But mild cases of constipation can be treated at home.

Thus, is it important to determine how serious the problem is. in Five Ways to help Your Constipated Dog, Dr. Jennifer Coates says: “since you are constantly picking up after your dog, you are in the best position to recognize when your dog is becoming constipated. But do you know how to handle the problem should it develop?”

Symptoms of severe constipation

This is the time to call a vet: Your dog 1. is very uncomfortable 2. is vomiting 3. is not eating 4. has not pooped for over three days 5. has a distended belly 6. has blood in his/her stool.

“Dogs who are severely constipated can be9. hernias come systemically ill and risk permanent damage 10. hormonal disorder to the gastrointestinal tract,” Coates says 11.Anatomical abnormalities (matted fur around But if your dog has mild constipation, it can be the anus, birth defect, traumatic injury, among others.) treated at home.

12.Lack of exercise A dog becomes constipated when the stool is too 13. Fear or anxiety that prevents normal behavior such as thunderstorm or travelling large and/or too firm to be easily passed from the body.

Your vet will tell you if the condition is severe or mild. he/she will determine the cause and will Symptoms of mild constipation decide on what to do based on this.

Mildly constipated dogs 1. strain to poop Conditions that cause constipation 2. take longer than normal to poop The following cause constipation: 3. may be a little uncomfortable while defecating, and 1. Dehydration 4. produce small amounts of feces that are 2. Treatment with some types of medication harder than normal.

3. Electrolyte abnormalities if these are the symptoms and your dog looks 4. intestinal inflammation fine, Coates says you can try some home treatment.

5. Pain while defecating (for example, a broken “But, if your dog does not begin to defecate norpelvis or arthritis) mally within a day of initiating home treatment, or 6. Neurologic problems his constipation becomes a recurring problem, be 7. Eating material that can not be digested sure to call your veterinarian,” says Coates.

8.Tumors (To be continued next week)