D1
SUNDAY, AUGUST 6, 2017
Jimbo Gulle, Editor
Roger Garcia, Issue Editor
LGUs
mslocalgov@gmail.com
QC ENGAGES RECYCLERS WITH PAYATAS NEAR LIMIT By Rio N. Araja
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HE Quezon City Environment Protection and Waste Management Department has invited more than 700 recyclers for a solid waste and management forum under the “Zero Litter in QC Project.” The forum is scheduled to run until Aug.11 and will be held at Bulwagang Amoranto, Quezon City Hall. According to Remelito Hirang, chief of the EPWMD monitoring, inspection and enforcement section, records show there are more than 700 junk shops in Quezon City, and only 80 of them have registered their business. In the solid waste management forum held on Tuesday, the EPWMD recognized the role of the formal and informal sector recyclers in the overall waste reduction and diversion effort of the city. The forum aims to enable the recyclers to
proactively participate in the environmental management policies, programs and projects as well as with the social facet of local administration. Apart from their role in waste management, the recyclers also learned about City Ordinance No. 2350-2014 also known as “The Quezon City Environment Code.” “We will organize, empower, and teach them on how to operate, especially on the health and sanitation aspects. We will support them fully,” Hirang said. The city government, in a private-public partnership scheme, is also planning to build a recycling facility where all wastes collected by all junk shops will be recycled. Recycling became even more important for the city as on Friday, a high-ranking Quezon City official said the Payatas dump is already nearing its limit. City administrator Aldrin Cuña said, the city government is now preparing for the eventual closure of the Payatas landfill by the end of 2017 to save lives. “We are preparing for its closure this year, but the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority has to decide where we will dump
our waste. As of now, there is still no designated area,” he added. The EPWMD, headed by Frederika Rentoy, requested the MMDA to reopen the Payatas sanitary landfill after ordering a temporary closure on July 27. The closure was brought about by the continuous rains. The MMDA also instructed the EPWMD to suspend the operations of the Payatas dump. Rentoy said the heavy rains made the access roads in the landfill muddy and slippery, making it difficult for garbage trucks to safely maneuver. During the dump’s closure, the city’s collected garbage was diverted to two sanitary landfills —District 1, 3 and 4’s wastes to Vitas, Tondo in Manila, and Districts 2, 5 and 6’s to Rodriguez, Rizal. “The collection of Vitas takes five to eight hours before the truck could get back [to Payatas]. There is really a delay in the collection. Despite having a shorter turnaround time in Rodriguez, there are requirements, such as tickets, that must be met before our trucks could be allowed to enter,” Rentoy said. Rentoy said they are just waiting for the gosignal of the MMDA to be able to resume the Payatas operation.
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RUN ‘FUR’ FUN. More than a hundred runners and their four-legged friends enjoyed an afternoon of sunshine at SM City Santa Rosa’s ‘Run Fur Fun’ event at the mall’s parking area. Aside from bonding with their pets, participants also enjoyed sponsor booths, free veterinary check-ups, and loads of games and prizes. More than P20,000 worth of prizes were given away in the 1k and 3k race. Roy Tomandao
SOLON HOUSE BILL FOR FREE COLLEGE FOR SUC APPROVED SEVERAL congressmen, including Bacoor City Rep. Strike B. Revilla, have thanked President Rodrigo Duterte for signing the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act into law last Thursday. The President signed the bill into law despite the objections of his administration’s economic managers, Senior Deputy Executive Secretary Menardo Guevarra said in a press briefing. Revilla was among the lawmakers who proposed free tuition for students in state universities and colleges through House Bill 4701 that the Bacoor solon filed last December. The bill was eventually consolidated into HB 5633, which Congress approved in May and sent to Duterte for signing last July 5.
The law prescribes full tuition subsidy for all students in SUCs, universities and colleges funded by local governments, and state-run technical-vocational schools. Revilla thanked 58 fellow congressmen and senators who advanced the proposal in the upper chamber. The Bacoor representative also singled out Zamboanga Sibugay 2nd District Rep. Ann Hofer, chairman of the House Committee on Technical and Higher Education, for shepherding the bill through the deliberations. He likewise praised House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, Majority Leader Rodolfo Fariñas, Minority Leader Danilo Suarez, the Senate leadership and all lawmakers for passing the bill—which was one of President
Rep. Strike Revilla
Duterte’s campaign promises— unanimously. “This measure shows the true and full compassion of the President for our youth and countrymen,” Revilla said. “This administration and our present crop of leaders have done in a year what has not been done before. That’s political will.” “In the Philippines, two of every five high school students can’t go to college because of high tuition fees and expenses. After high school, they have no choice but to work instead of going to college,” he explained. “This a big step to change our education system into a better one. We should not let poverty stops our youth from their dreams. They are our future,” Revilla said.
CALTEX TO GRANT P3M TO 30 BICOL TEACHERS
CHEVRON Philippines Inc., marketer of Caltex fuels and lubricants, and Caltex branded marketer Southern Cross Distribution Inc. has announced that 30 public high school teachers from the Bicol Region will be given modern teaching equipment during the recent launch of “Caltex Fuel Your School” in Naga City. From Aug. 1 to Sept. 30, Caltex will donate one peso for every liter purchased of Caltex with Techron each time motorists fill up at any of the 22 participating Caltex stations in Bicol. The target amount of P3 million will be divided equally to each of the 30 teachers to buy teaching aids that will help their students learn science and math subjects.
“These classrooms must be equipped with the right tools and equipment, and teachers must be well trained to use them, and Fuel Your School program is a channel to achieve this,” said Vice President Leni Robredo during the launch ceremonies. “Every new computer, every new LCD projector, every new multimedia device, and every laboratory equipment will build communities that will encourage students to develop their skills and excel in their chosen fields,” the Vice President added. For more information about Caltex Fuel Your School, visit www. caltexfuelyourschoolph.com, or the Caltex Philippines Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CaltexPhilippines.
Local Gov’t Units
The 30 selected teachers of the Caltex Fuel Your School program share the stage with (from left, center row) AmCham Foundation executive director Jun Salipsip, Department of Education Region 5 director Ramon Abcede, Chevron Philippines Inc. country chairman Peter Morris, Vice President Leni Robredo, Southern Cross Distribution Inc. chairman Jose Mari Delgado, and CPI Policy, Goverment and Public Affairs manager Raissa Bautista.
VALENZUELA OFFICES REAP FOUR AWARDS By Jun David VALENZUELA City has received four awards and was recognized for giving quality services to its constituents. The awards were bestowed by Metro Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council and the Office of the Civil Defense-National Capital Region for the second straight year. They handed the Valenzuela City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office-Urban Search and Rescue Unit the Gawad Kalasag 2017 NCR for the Best Government Emergency Management Service in NCR on July 31. Gawad Kalasag (KAlamidad at Sakuna LAbanan, SAriling Galing ang Kaligtasan) is the country’s premiere search for excellence in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management, and Humanitarian Assistance. During the awarding ceremonies held at the Novotel Manila in Quezon City, OCD-NCR director Romulo Cabantac Jr. commended the VCDRRMO team for their immediate response during the Mabini, Batangas quake. “Right after the quake, the Valenzuela Rescue Team immediately put up an Incident Command System [ICS] post in the area, whereas the Batangas rescue unit arrived eight hours after. Valenzuela City is a testament that the NCR is a model in establishing an ICS,” Cabantac said. The Valenzuela City Public Employment Service Office, on the other hand, has been consistently on the ranks of the best PESOs in NCR. The Department Labor and Employment has once again recognized the office after garnering an overall rating of 97 percent making it the Best PESO in NCR for 2017. Consequently, Valenzuela City is the region’s bet in the national search for the highly urbanized city category. The city government also received Local Government Unit eReadiness Leadership Award during the Electronic Business Permits and Licensing Summit held at Novotel Manila in Quezon City. Lastly, the city received the Seal of Child Friendly Local Governance during the Regional Awarding and Conferment Ceremonies held at the Muntinlupa Sports Complex. Turn to D2
CALOOCAN RECEIVES CHINESE DELEGATION CALOOCAN City Mayor Oscar Malapitan recently received the delegation of Gulou Distruct, Fuzhou City, Fujian, People’s Republic of China, led by their Vice Mayor Wang Chung Sen. The Chinese city representatives came to express their intent to make Caloocan a sister city, Malapitan said. Fuzhou is the sixth largest city of China and has a population of 16 million. Yesterday, the Chinese group went around Caloocan’s national landmark, the Bonifacio Monument Circle, and was taken to different areas including the North City Hall, Amparo Nature Park, Caloocan City North Medical Center, University of Caloocan-Congressional Campus, and Sports Center, all in the northern part of the city. Malapitan said the delegation aims to make Caloocan a sister city to improve and assist the latter’s economy, learn each other’s culture, education and local governance. Jun David
LGUs
SUNDAY, AUGUST 6, 2017 D2 Standard TODAY Manila
mst.daydesk@gmail.com
I
CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK
SOLSONA IS ILOCOS’ TOP RICE PRODUCER
LOCOS Norte Gov. Imee R. Marcos joined Solsona Town Mayor Alexander Calucag in receiving the 2016 National Rice Achiever award from the Department of Agriculture– Regional Agriculture and Fishery Extension Network 1 on Wednesday for being one of the top rice-producing municipalities in the Philippines.
DPWH ALLOTS P193M FOR KALINGA ROAD GAPS By Brenda Jocson TABUK CITY, Kalinga—The national government has allotted P193 million to complete the long-delayed pavement of short gaps along the national highway from this city to Mountain Province boundary in Tinglayan town. According to the Upper Kalinga District of the Department of Public Works and Highways, contractors are now working on the pavement of the five-kilometer gaps mostly along the Lubuagan-Tinglayan section of the national road. Theodoro Owek, DPWHUpper Kalinga District assistant district engineer, said the project is part of more than P1 billion in road projects during the administration of thenPresident Gloria Arroyo. Owek said the project incurred gaps due to unreasonable demands of individuals on road right-of-way claims.
The municipal government of Tinglayan said it created a local peace corps to talk with claimants, resolve issues and settle demands. Owek said this move paved the way for contractors to pursue the completion of the remaining gaps. DPWH officials assured they are doing all means for the smooth completion of the project. Meanwhile, hundreds of motorcycles have been impounded and over a thousand motorcycle owners were apprehended by the city government after the implementation of the ordinance prohibiting the use of two-wheeled vehicles or motorcycles without exhaust mufflers or silencers was stepped up since January 2017. Mirriam Antonette Buslig, assistant chief of the Public Order and Safety Office, said they were now enforcing Ordinance 002 Series of 2011.
Calucag received a plaque of recognition along with a check for P1 million. Also an agriculturist, the mayor assured his constituents the cash prize will be used for the continuing benefit of farmers. “We will buy seeds and fertilizer for our fields with this prize,” he said. The Province of Ilocos Norte has also received the “Outstanding Rice Producer” title yearly since 2014. Luz L. Tabora, provincial rice program coordinator of the Provincial Agriculture Office, said prior cash prizes received from the awards, amounting to P4 million, were used to sustain agricultural projects and intensify farming systems throughout the province.
“These projects are continuing. Our farmers are using these funds for their rice planting. They will be given hybrid seeds, organic and inorganic fertilizers for their fields. They could also receive rice-fish culture technology,” she said. Last year, the province was also named by the DA as one of the Agri-Pinoy Rice Achiever Awardees for achieving rice sufficiency for the year 2015 with a 2.16 percent increase in rice production. At the same symposium, Marcos also urged participants of the event to maintain their efforts in promoting agriculture and entrepreneurship. “I hope that with the help of the Department, we’ll continue
to transform Northern Philippines into the same agriculture and entrepreneurial hub that is Central Luzon,” the governor said. She also cited the “AgriNegosyo” program of Senator Cynthia A. Villar, who chairs the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Food, as an example of utilizing both new and conventional strategies to promote the country’s agricultural products. “Seeing a lot of our farm products go to waste, or perhaps sold at meeker and seasonal prices, is to see the misery that farmer’s life can be today. However, we have seen also great commercial experiments and entrepreneurs of enthusiasm who have shown the way
for agricultural businesses for the future. “I hope that with the ‘AgriNegosyo’ inspiration of Senator Villar, we can keep gathering together to plant good businesses based on agriculture,” Marcos added. RAFEN also launched the Kapatid Agri-Monitoring Program and the Directory Guide of Ilocandia, which includes learning sites, school of practical agriculture, farm tourism sites, and private extension service providers in the Ilocos region. The event also featured an expo showcasing agricultural products throughout the region including plants, poultry products, and cow milk processed goods, among others.
NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC Notice is hereby given that Capt. Victorio S. Milallos resigned as General Manager of Fil-Star Maritime Corporation, effective July 28, 2017. This notice is in compliance with the Section 28, Part II, Rule II, of the 2016 Revised POEA Rules and Regulations Governing the Recruitment and Employment of Seafarers. (MS-AUG. 6, 2017)
Republic of the Philippines Department of Health CENTRAL OFFICE BIDS AND AWARDS COMMITTEE Invitation to Bid PROCUREMENT OF VARIOUS GOODS 1.
The Department of Health (DOH), through the Continuing Appropriations Act of 2016 and General Appropriations Act CY 2017 intends to procure the following projects listed below: IB No.
Name of Contract
2017-266 2017-268 2017-280 2017-290 2017-001-A
ABC (PHP)
Procurement of Deltamethrin Procurement of Albendazole Procurement of Long Lasting Insecticide – Treated Nets Procurement of Iodine Soft Gel Capsule Procurement of DMPA (Injectable) – Re-Bid
85,937,069.97 82,995,958.00 105,419,165.00 183,987,500.00 87,594,750.00
Cost of Bidding Documents (Php) 50,000.00 50,000.00 50,000.00 50,000.00 50,000.00
2.
The DOH now invites Bids from eligible Bidders for the procurement of the abovecaption projects. Delivery of the Goods is required as specified in Section VI. Schedule of Requirements. Bidders should have completed contracts similar to the cited projects, equivalent to at least twenty five percent (25%) of the ABC. The description of an eligible bidder is contained in the Bidding Documents, particularly, in Section II. Instructions to Bidders.
3.
Bidding will be conducted through open competitive bidding procedures using a non-discretionary “pass/fail” criterion as specified in the 2016 Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act (RA) 9184, otherwise known as the “Government Procurement Reform Act”. Bidding is restricted to Filipino citizens/sole proprietorships, partnerships, or organizations with at least sixty percent (60%) interest or outstanding capital stock belonging to citizens of the Philippines, and to citizens or organizations of a country the laws or regulations of which grant similar rights or privileges to Filipino citizens, pursuant to RA 5183.
4.
Interested bidders may obtain further information from the COBAC Secretariat, G/F, Bldg. 6, Department of Health, San Lazaro Compound, Sta. Cruz, Manila and inspect the Bidding Documents at 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday. It may also be downloaded free of charge from the website of the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System (PhilGEPS), provided that Bidders who interested to participate shall pay the applicable fee for the Bidding Documents not later than the submission of their bids.
5.
The DOH will hold a Pre-Bid Conference and the Submission and Opening of Bids at COBAC Conference Room, G/F, Building 6, Department of Health, San Lazaro Compound, Rizal Avenue, Sta. Cruz, Manila on the schedule given below Name of Contract
2017-266 2017-268 2017-280 2017-290 2017-001-A
Procurement of Deltamethrin Procurement of Albendazole Procurement of Long Lasting Insecticide – Treated Nets Procurement of Iodine Soft Gel Capsule Procurement of DMPA (Injectable) – Re-Bid
PLDT wireless subsidiary Smart Communications recently conducted an emergency response training for members of the clergy and religious congregations under the Diocese of Catarman. The activity, held at the St. John Paul II Seminary in Mondragon, Northern Samar, is part of the ongoing #SafePH series of disaster preparedness trainings spearheaded by Smart to help build the capacity of communities during calamities. Members of the clergy and religious congregations in the Diocese of Catarman listen during the disaster preparedness training conducted by Smart at St. John Paul II Seminary in Mondragon, Northern Samar. Louie Domingo of Emergency Management Center taught the participants what to do during emergencies, how to apply first aid, and what to put in their emergency kits or “e-Balde.” Cedric Daep, for his part, shared lessons on weather hazards and how to create project proposals for disaster mitigation in their communities. Daep is the head of the Albay Public Safety and Emergency Man-
agement Office, the first disaster risk management office under a local government unit in Asia. “We endorse this training to our priests, and we hope to share the learnings to our parishes, the lay people, and our BECs [basic ecclesial communities]. The priests will appreciate learning how to assist during calamities, with the help of communications,” said Catarman Bishop Emmanuel Trance. “Communication is very important during disasters. During Typhoon ‘Nona’—the strongest one to hit us in 2015—some areas lost signal. We had to drive to the mountainous areas to be able to contact people. That’s why we recognize the importance of being connected,” Trance added. “We’re looking forward to extending this training to our partners on the ground—the responders, the people in the community—so that everyone will have knowledge on disaster preparedness and response,” said Rev. Fr. Fred I. Placa, diocesan pastoral office director. “Climate change and calamities seem to be the new normal, that’s why we really need to prepare. The Church used to be focused only on
its own affairs, but now it is more involved in disaster preparedness, climate change mitigation and caring for environment,” Placa added. “The Church is very much involved in disaster preparedness in communities, leading in the distribution of relief assistance and serving as evacuation centers to affected residents. Through this training, we aim to help the Diocese of Catarman manage the impact of calamities,” said Ramon R. Isberto, PLDT and Smart public affairs head. The Diocese of Catarman covers the whole Northern Samar province, which has a land area of 3,499 kilometers and is made up of 570 barangays in 24 towns. As part of its #SafePH advocacy, Smart promotes the culture of preparedness in communities with the help of technology. It has initiated mobile solutions such as the Emergency Cell Broadcast System and the Batingaw emergency app together with the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council; and community caravans for the youth, families, and members of the Church, in the company’s efforts toward resilience.
14 August 2017; 9:00 AM
29 August 2017; 9:00 AM
Amount of Bid Security (Not less than the required percentage of the ABC)
(a) Cash, Cashier’s/manager’s check issued by a Universal or Commercial Bank. (b) Bank draft/guarantee or irrevocable letter of credit issued by a Universal or Commercial Bank: Provided, however, that it shall be confirmed or authenticated by a Universal or Commercial Bank, if issued by a foreign bank. (c) Surety bond callable upon demand issued by a surety or insurance company duly certified by the Insurance Commission as authorized to issue such security. (d) Bid Securing Declaration
Two percent (2%)
Five percent (5%) No percentage required
Bid opening shall be at COBAC Conference Room, Ground Floor, Bldg. 6, Department of Health, Sta. Cruz, Manila. Bids will be opened in the presence of the Bidders’ representatives who choose to attend at the address above. Late bids shall not be accepted.
8.
SMART BOOSTS CATARMAN ‘BECS’
Bid must be duly received by the COBAC-A Secretariat at the address below on or before the date given above. All Bids must be accompanied by a bid security in any of the acceptable forms and in the amount stated below: Form of Bid Security
7.
kick off the ‘Simula ng Pag-Asa’, a 12-week faith-based recovery program for drug surrenderers as part of the government campaign against illegal drugs. Asnan joined officers of the Philippine National Police-Dangerous Drugs Board, several faith-based organizations, civil society organizations and the private sector. Roy Tomandao
Activity (Date & Time) Pre-bidding Submission and Conference Opening of Bids
IB No.
6.
RECOVERY PROGRAM. Chief Insp. Jonathan A. Asnan, chief of police of Carmona in Cavite, conducts a lecture to
The DOH reserves the right to reject any and all Bids, declare a failure of bidding, or not award the contract at any time prior to contract award in accordance with Section 41 of RA 9184 and its IRR, without thereby incurring any liability to the affected bidder or bidders. For further information, please refer to: COBAC-A Secretariat Building No. 6 Department of Health San Lazaro Compound, Rizal Avenue, Sta. Cruz, Manila Tel. Nos. 651-7800 local 1625 to 1627; 1650 to 52 Facsimile No.: 741-9775 (SGD) GERARDO V. BAYUGO, MD, MPH, CESO III Undersecretary of Health COBAC – A Chairperson
(MS-AUG. 6, 2017)
CHANGING PLACES. The Department of Agriculture–Regional Field Unit 02 held a turnover ceremony on Tuesday to welcome incoming Regional Executive Director Narciso A. Edillo last Tuesday at the DA-Cagayan Valley Integrated Agricultural Laboratory, Regional Government Center, Carig Sur, Tuguegarao City. Edillo will lead DA Region 02 after his short stint in the Ilocos Region. Outgoing RED Lucresio R. Alviar Jr., who spent six years in Region 02, will head DA Region 01, as they swap posts starting Aug.1. Abe Almirol
VALENZUELA... From D1 The city has been constantly scoring excellently in the Child Friendly Local Governance Audit (CFLGA) since its implementation in 2014, allowing the city to receive the Seal. CGLGA is a tool that assesses the performance of LGUs in de-
livery of social services that promote the welfare of children. Also for the second time, Valenzuela City Government and Mayor Rex Gatchalian bagged the LGU e-Readiness Award 2017 which it previously got in 2014. The award recognizes local chief executives who are pioneering the adoption and strategic use of Information and Communications Technol-
ogy to enhance the delivery of government services, improve revenue/tax collection efforts, hasten business permits application and renewal processes, and to promote transparency in government operations. Gatchalian said this harvest of recognitions in the month of July are evidences that the City is truly a hub of local governance best practices.
CLIMATE CHANGE GRANTS PROPOSED THE Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture is working on a tie-up with the Department of Science and Technology to come up with scholarships or grants on climate change. “To address Climate Change, we intend the scholarships to develop capacities and expertise of Filipinos,” Searca director Gil Saguiguit Jr. said. Saguiguit said he has been discussing with Science Secretary Fortunato dela Peña last Wednesday during the opening of the annual Los Baños National Science and Technology Week celebration dubbed “SyenSya” the possibilities to collaborate particularly on the said scholarships. Saguiguit said in the past, the Center has had sporadic collaborations with DoST including its forerunner National Science and Development Board which funded a nationwide program called the Social Laboratory. A strategy for rural and agricultural development, the Social Laboratory is carried out in partnership with higher education institutions to uplift the socioeconomic conditions of rural farming communities. Saguiguit said that in view of the changing landscape of agriculture and Searca’s focus on promoting inclusive and sustainable agricultural and rural development [ISARD], “it is imperative that we look to S&T to produce more from less.” “It is toward this end that we are exploring possibilities to collaborate with DoST on agricultural research and development and capacity building initiatives, including said scholarships for advanced studies on climate change,” Saguiguit said. Brenda Jocson
CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK
Gadgets & Games
EXPERIENCE INNOVATION WITH ELECOM MOUSE
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EEPING up with today’s digital life is mainly about having the right tools on hand. And Japanese solutions provider Elecom tries to help digital savvy millennials stay ahead of the pack, whether in gaming, work or even school with the new Elecom mouse lineup, including Elecom’s commemorative “egg mouse”, which boasts an ultralightweight design and innovative features befitting today’s era. Whether playing games, crafting work presentations or finishing reports, one can definitely find the right Elecom mouse to complement his mobility needs.
Work on the go with the M-EG30 Egg Lightweight Bluetooth Mouse
Professionals who wish they can bring along their PC mouse when they have to work on the go need look no further. At 30 grams together with the batteries, the M-EG30 Egg Lightweight Bluetooth Mouse weighs as light as a single screw and can easily fit into the laptop bag without much fuss while maintaining the performance and durability features of a normal mouse. Professionals can work for longer hours too, thanks to the M-EG30 Egg Lightweight Bluetooth Mouse’s fatigue-resistant, hand-friendly design. With so much to do in so little time, they will definitely feel relieved at the prospect of not wasting so much time charging it: The M-EG30 Egg Lightweight Bluetooth Mouse can last for about two months in a single charge, making it ideal for professionals’ everyday on-the-go use. The ultra lightweight Blue-
Whether playing games, crafting work presentations or finishing reports, one can definitely find the right Elecom mouse (left, M-EG30 Egg Lightweight Bluetooth Mouse and right, M-IR07DRS Wireless Infrared Mouse) to complement your mobility needs.
tooth mouse also has an Infrared LED for low-powered consumption and a built-in power switch that prevents battery drain, allowing professionals to maximize the mouse’s battery life and tackle day-to-day work challenges with optimum productivity.
Work silently with the M-IR07DRS Wireless Infrared Mouse
Not even the school librarian will be pursing her lips in disapproval: The MIR07DRS Wireless Infrared Mouse is silent to a fault, perfect for use in places requiring minimal noise. Students cramming their papers inside the library will be able to keep noise levels down conveniently and effortlessly, thanks to the mouse’s built-in silent switch. But the mouse boasts more than just silence: With the M-IR07DRS Wireless Infrared Mouse’s built-in power switch and infrared LED, students won’t have the worry about their mouse dying on them while they work. And they can even enjoy battery that can impressively last as long as 2.5 years without charging. The M-IR07DRS Wireless Infrared Mouse also features a small and easily storable USB micro receiver, for connecting mobile devices.
Play hard with the M-DT1URBK DEFT Wired Trackball Mouse
Gaming aficionados who love play-
ing for long hours will find no better companion than the M-DT1URBK DEFT Wired Trackball Mouse, which features built-in function buttons, including left, right forward and back buttons and a tilt wheel, for seamless gameplay or even faster web browsing. Set to bring out the inner gamer in each individual, the mouse features a built-in switch for adjusting pointer movement speed, a built-in power switch for preventing battery drain, and a built-in indicator lamp that shows remaining battery life. It also has an index finger operation type wired trackball that delivers overwhelming operation performance. Gamers who wish to better customize their gaming experience can even change the button function assignment through the “Elecom Mouse Assistant”, which can be downloaded for free. Jabbing buttons while the game is heating up won’t cause hand and finger fatigue, either: The M-DT1URBK DEFT Wired Trackball Mouse’s ergonomic design prevents muscular and skeletal problems when gamers need to use the mouse for long hours. And gamers can be assured of excellent pointer response too, with the mouse’s gaming grade high-performance optical sensor that detects trackball movement. Stay comfortable with the Elecom M-XGM10DBBK Wireless Blue Led Mouse and Elecom MP-115BK Fittio Mouse Pad
The Elecom M-XGM10DBBK Wireless Blue Led Mouse is nimble and quick: It features Blue LED Technology, for faster and more accurate response. Designed for comfort and smooth usage, the Elecom M-XGM10DBBK Wireless Blue Led Mouse’s medium-sized built fits snugly into one’s hand, allowing the easy left and right movement of the thumb and ring finger as well as the absorption and distribution of load according to wrist movement. It also has five built-in buttons, for faster web browsing. Aside from having the right mouse, users can fight wrist fatigue better with the easy-to-clean Elecom MP-115BK Fittio Mouse Pad, which features an integrated hand rest that distributes wrist weight, relieves wrist tension emanating from long-time mouse usage, and fixes wrist position for better mouse movement control. These Elecom accessories are available in Elecom outlets in SM North Edsa, SM Marikina, SM Fairview, SM Soutmall, Solenad and all Urbanize outlets at U.P. Town Center, Gateway, Shangri-La, Glorietta3, Uptown BGC, Venice Grand Canal, Kiss & Fly NAIA Terminal 3, Alabang Town Center, The District-Imus, Solenad and Serin – Tagaytay. For more information, please visit the Urbanize and Elecom websites. Also follow Urbanize’s Facebook and Instagram and Elecom’s Facebook and Instagram.
M LHUILLIER, STARMOBILE, SMART TEAM UP M LHUILLIER announces its partnership with Starmobile and Smart with the launching of the ML Phone, a customized Starmobile PLAY Five smartphone powered by a Smart SIM with data allocation packaged for one year. This partnership brings together the integration of mobile and digital technology to the financial services industry. “We are very excited about this partnership with Starmobile and Smart as it extends our relationship with our customers, and expands our network to create new ones. Our efforts to push for strategic alliances help us to deliver excellence, innovation and quality service to the customers we serve,” said Lorenzo Escaño, general manager for M Lhuillier Luzon & NCR. The ML Phone possesses advanced specifications and access to Smart’s widest internet service, thereby allowing M Lhuillier customers to enjoy and enhance their
Proponents of the launching of the ML Phone are shown here, namely (from left) Dept. Head/VP, National Key Accounts Group Precy Katigbak, Smart SVP/Head for Wireless and Distribution Alex Caeg, M Lhuillier GM for Luzon/NCR Lorenzo Escaño, Starmobile CEO Joey Uy, and Starmobile President Uly Lao.
experience with its new digital solution, the ML Wallet. A proprietary technology, the ML Wallet is an embedded app on the ML Phone. But for the millions of M
Lhuillier customers with Android or iPhone devices, they can download it through Google Play Store or Apple App Store, respectively. With this breakthrough product,
users can conveniently send money, pay bills and electronically load mobile phones anytime and anywhere. Just some of the earlier features available on the ML Wallet app and with more robust features to follow. “We promise to support M Lhuillier all the way, from providing them the units and updating their application,” said Joey Uy, chief executive officer for Starmobile. ML Phone is something to experience. With a free Smart SIM Pack and data allocation of up to 100 mbps per month, it is definite to deliver the best network service. “Together, our teams commit to a stronger collaboration to deliver a common goal. I am happy that this project will be very fruitful. We look forward to seeing the launch of M Lhuillier Phone in the market,” said Alex Caeg, senior vice president and head for wireless and distribution of Smart. ML Phone is now available in select M Lhuillier Branches nationwide.
ACER REVOLUTIONIZES EDUCATION THRU CLOUDPROFESSOR ACER has earned its pedestal in the tech market as a brand that spearheads innovative technology and practical solutions for the everyday Filipino. Beyond the successes it has received, it has also sought to go beyond the norm by crafting unique services that the market has never experienced, such as the CloudProfessor. Following its launch in 2016, the CloudProfessor by Acer is finally in the Philippines to educate users on the basic Internet of Things (IoT) service and functions of cloud control, through its simplified devices and starter kit set-up. Initially introduced in the Taiwanese market, the first-of-its-kind cloud technology has been simplified to improve the educational experience of lecturers and students. “We launched this cloud education service in 2016 as a testament to Acer’s commitment in helping break the barrier between people and technology. Through this new initiative, we wish to educate the next generation
on how to utilize, in a very simple way, this plug-n-play technology,” says Roger Wu, Business Development Manager of BYOC Smart Products and Pan Asia Pacific Business Development. As the first stop in Southeast Asia, the Philippines market has the privilege to experience the CloudProfessor before its neighboring countries. During its recent local internal launch, the Acer Philippines family – with twenty-nine children, on hand, underwent an interactive boot camp to experience the genius, convenience, and dynamics behind the CloudProfessor. Showcasing a simple build-and-play activity, the children better understood the possibilities of cloud control by manipulating and maneuvering a toy car with the task to park it in a make-shift garage. All of which were controlled through a tablet and cloud technology. The latest addition to Acer products locally, the CloudProfessor serves as a gateway to tech solu-
tions and innovations that can be crafted, even by students. Unlike its competitors, the Cloud Professor has already been packaged and simplified, which is why the term “plug, play, code and make” has been coined to describe the service. The package already includes a hardware, software, and cloud, which does not require programmers with in-depth skills unlike other IoT products. The company believes that even the youngest of children can already learn a thing or two about programming, Roger Wu states, “We believe that in [the young children’s] generation, computer skills is a basic. But for them, programming is also a basic language. A lot of countries have taught programming in their classes. We’re not trying to make everybody an engineer, or a programmer, this is just a training ground on how to solve a problem. Through programming, education can be achieved in a larger scale.”
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SUNDAY, AUGUST 6, 2017 rumallari@thestandard.com.ph
FORTINET WARNS OF CYBER ATTACKS By Patricia Bianca S. Taculao FORTINET, an American multinational corporation, warned users during a briefing about the threat of ransomware and later offered solutions when the problem is encountered. The rising stakes of global attacks from cybercriminals drove Fortinet to advise the public on how to deal with them. Large-scale attacks like the ILOVEYOU worm, Code Red and Nimda are no longer foreign because of the numerous devices and organizations affected. The spread of WannaCry reportedly hit a couple of dozen companies in the Philippines. WannaCry developed a ransomware that allows it to spread rapidly across the globe to attack thousands of devices and organizations rather than the usual method of selecting a specific target. During the past month, Fortinet saw the emergence of a new ransomware called Petya. This new malware is similar to WannaCry’s approach of selecting a vulnerable target. However, Petya has a more potent payload that is able to clear data off a system. “I believe that the WannaCry and Petya attacks were simply shots across the bow. They are part of an insidious new opportunistic strategy of targeting newly discovered vulnerabilities with massive, global attacks and increasingly malicious payloads,” said Fortinet Regional Director for Southeast Asia and Hong Kong Jeff Castillo. As a company that develops and markets cybersecurity software, appliances and services, Fortinet advises the public to be secure in their connection, aware of the devices connected to their network, perform patches on devices and replace those that are too old to be patched. They are also advised to divide their network into functional segments to protect data and resources.
OLX DATA... From D4 Average price buyers are willing to spend on a car listed on OLX: P330,000 Top 5 Searched Brands 1. Toyota ; 2. Mitsubishi ; 3. Honda; 4. Isuzu; 5. Nissan Top 5 Make and Models Searched 1. Honda Civic; 2. Toyota Vios; 3. Toyota Fortuner; 4. Toyota Innova; 5. Mitsubishi Montero Sport *Source OLX Data Hub Three out of the Top 5 searched vehicles belong to the utility vehicle category which shows that young fathers, who make up most of the market for used-cars, are practical. They hunt for people mover, multipurpose type of steeds—capable of being a daily driver while hauling the entire family for road trips on weekends. From top 5 searched vehicle manufacturers, Nissan and Isuzu did not have specific models buyers are looking for. Among Japanese brands, Toyota is top of mind. Just as they are popular brand new, the Vios, Innova, and Fortuner are also sought after by those looking to buy second-hand. Supremacy of most searched make model however, belongs to the Honda Civic—suggesting young dads still aspire for a daily driver with a sporty vibe. Online classifieds platforms also prove to be an effective way to sell pre-loved vehicles. Those looking to buy a new car, especially those who are starting a family, would benefit from selling their current rides instead of trading it in as buyers who find what they want online are also firm in purchasing. According to the OLX Data Hub, cars posted on OLX will immediately get at least 3 inquiries on the week it is listed. If the vehicle is among the Top 5 searched, it’s highly likely that it’ll get an inquiry or even be sold within 1 to 2 hours after listing. “With listings looking to breach the 1-million mark this year for both brand new and pre-loved cars, practical young dads looking to buy vehicles can find options within our platform,” says Raffy Montemayor, General Manager of OLX.“Those looking to sell their pre-loved vehicles especially Honda Civic, and Toyota Fortuner, Innova, and Vios owners will not have a hard time finding serious buyers on our app.” While there is a market, buying a used-ride is still tricky. OLX has security measures in place to ensure those listing have legitimate identities. But buyers still have to have to practice due diligence by checking if there are any red flags on the car by getting its plate number double checked through the LTO. Also, once meeting up with a seller, ask for maintenance records of the car. You are driving it on a lot to trips with your family after all. A seller peddling a well maintained vehicle should be able to share details of latest maintenance checks, replaced parts, and will keep records. If they don’t, that should alert you already. Whether you’re buying or selling a car, OLX has got you covered. Download the app today to either find your next dream ride or post your car to get an upgrade today!
D4
SUNDAY, AUGUST 6, 2017 Riera U. Mallari, Editor rumallari@thestandard.com.ph
Gadgets & Games
SAMSUNG RAISES BAR IN SOUND SYSTEMS
Capt. Sam Avila (right), Cebu Pacific Vice President of Flight Operations, shows Cebu Pacific pilots the features of the iPad Electronic Flight Bag, which will digitize flight charts, maps and other information pilots need to have in-flight. The carrier began rolling out the iPad EFBs to Cebgo ATR pilots last week and expects to distribute the devices to CEB Airbus pilots in the coming weeks.
CEB PILOTS NOW EQUIPPED WITH IPADS Dan Torres, Marketing Head for Consumer Electronics; Isabella Concepcion, Marketing Manager for AV/ TV; Mahir Al-Rubah, Product Marketing Manager for Audio; and Daye Barbatchano, Head of Product Training for Consumer Electronics reveal the curved Samsung Soundbar Sound+ HW-MS6501. Nathanielle Punay
By Nathanielle Punay
W
ITH the theme “raise the bar,” Samsung Electronics released three new soundbar models: HW-K950, HW-MS751 and HWMS6501, which promotes a theatre-like sound system to be used at home and can wirelessly connect to multiple devices all at once. The new models that are designed in the company’s Audio Lab in California introduce three key features-cinematic sound quality, powerful bass and wireless connectivity. The soundbars also stray from their usual structure wherein only one amplifier is dedicated to one channel, as Samsung built one amplifier each for every speaker, providing a wider range and better sound quality. It is also available in all sizes and designs that are compatible to any TV
width and structure. The first model in their industry that has been powered by Dolby Atmos Technology is the Samsung Soundbar HW-K950. It comes with a 5.1.4 channel system, meaning there are five traditional surround speakers spreading to front left, front right, center, top left and top right directions; one subwoofer that is automatically connected to the soundbar; and four up-firing speakers, allowing sound to travel in all directions.
The package is equipped with 15 speakers in total with wide-range tweeters and 4K pass-through. The soundbar also comes with six sound modes, such as Standard, Music, Movie, Clear Voice, Sports, and Night Mode. Meanwhile, the two new Soundbar Sound+ models, HW-MS751 and HW-MS6501 has 11 built-in speakers and also have five channels with six woofers, three tweeters and two vertical tweeters. The difference between the two models is that HW-MS751 has a builtin subwoofer, making it the first of Samsung’s Soundbars to have such a feature. The Sound+ line-up has improved qualities such as the “Ultra High Quality 32-bit Audio,” which lets out a sound quality that is almost as clear as its original recording; “Height Channel Up-Mix Technology” that produces a surround-sound effect; “Long-ex-
cursion Technology” which improves speaker movement, “Multi-speaker Control Technology” that enables all speaker units to produce sound at the same time; and the “Distortioncancelling technology” which makes sure that no disruption of audio signals will occur. The new products have been revealed through a press launch last Aug. 1 at the One Global Place in Taguig City. Samsung also announced its nationwide 38 percent discount promo on their selected soundbars from Aug. 10 to Sept. 17. Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. is a South Korean, multinational electronics company that has been going on for 48 years and is one of the world’s largest manufacturer of mobile phones, tablets, cameras, digital appliances, medical equipment, network systems and electronic components.
ASUS ZENFONE IS FOR THE EXPLORER IN YOU SINCE the release of its first model in the country, the ASUS Zenfones have captured the attention of many Filipinos as a smartphone that goes beyond expectations. From its remarkable front camera to its impressive battery life, the Zenfone is the perfect device for all kinds of adventures. Here are four reasons this little wonder from ASUS is a cut above the rest: A superior battery life that keeps up with you Imagine being in the beautiful shores that Bantayan Island, and soaking up all the beauty that it has to offer. You grab your phone to capture this spectacular sight, only to find your battery dying at the last minute. It’s a nightmare, we know. Your bucket list moments shouldn’t be left uncaptured because of poor battery. The Zenfone, with its undeniably impressive battery capacity that can go up to 5,000 mAh (milliamp Hour) mixed with energy-efficient processors, knows this struggle. Now you can keep on shooting your picture-perfect adventures, and even keep up with your day-to-day activities such
as surfing the web, playing mobile games, or just checking your social media accounts!
fone’s got you covered with phones that you can say are uniquely yours.
Catching the moment is a breeze The ASUS Zenfone is built for photography. You’re given a wide array of Instagram-worthy photos with every click. May it be a simple one day out of town trip at Tagaytay or a week-long surfing escapade at La Union, this phone will boast of game-changing photo features like a high-end color correction device, wide digital image stabilizer, and real-time High Dynamic Range (HDR) imaging—which used to be only found in DSLR cameras!
A quality phone that pays off All of these features of the ASUS Zenfone come at a reasonable price. Designed for photography enthusiasts, this phone line only gets better series after series. Its mid-range variants are for those looking for a phone with distinct camera and battery features but are on a budget and its more premium units are designed for pros on the lookout for specific and advanced specs. A phone designed to be your trusty companion no matter what lies ahead; the ASUS Zenfone is the perfect fit for your inner explorer. All that’s left for you to do is to climb that mountain, take that road trip, or go off on another quest in search of that next great maximum, incredible experience.
A design that lets you show your personality The ASUS Zenfone’s exteriors do not disappoint too. Whether you like sleek and stylish, or want fun and quirky, this model offers a wide range of colors that can fit any preference. From your common black, white, and silver shades to your bright pink, blue, and purple hues, the Zen-
The Zenfone is the perfect device for all kinds of adventure.
OLX DATA REVEALS: GEN Y PINOY DADS BIGGEST MARKET FOR 2ND HAND CARS DESPITE the irresistible offers from local dealers on brandnew, off the showroom floor vehicles, statistics from online classifieds site OLX found that the second-hand car market remains robust with many buyers opting for a pre-loved set of wheels. Used vehicles are often enticing propositions for most buyers who just wish to own an affordable ride that will get them from point A to B. In 2016, more than 630,000 second-hand vehicles were
listed as for sale on the online classifieds platform—12% more than in 2015. Who exactly are in the market for second-hand vehicles? Turns out, it’s the young fathers segment. Of the 74% of male buyers on OLX, 81% of them are married and belong to the 30 to 39 age demographic. Most of them are employed working at private companies, government agencies, or are entrepreneurs. As for what they’re look-
ing for, numbers from the OLX Data Hub revealed that Japanese cars remain a top choice as no non-Japanese brands or models were in the Top 5 users searched for. This suggests that car buyers trust Japanese rides and view them as reliable. Other statistics from the OLX Data Hub on used cars also show that the demand isn’t going down soon. The OLX Second-hand Car Buyer: 8 out of 10 Filipinos are
looking for second-hand cars 74 % - Percentage of Male Car buyers on OLX; 26 % Percentage of Female Car Buyers on OLX; 50% of the market are first time car buyers. Top 3 age range of secondhand car buyers: 1. 30 to 39-years old - 35 %; 2. 22 to 29-years old - 22 %; 3. 40 to 49 years old – 22 % Top 3 Occupations: 1. Private employee; 2. Business Owner; 3. Government Employee Turn to D3
CEBU Pacific Air has started to roll-out 5th generation iPad devices for its pilots, as it begins to invest in paperless cockpit technology. The iPad will contain the pilots’Electronic Flight Bags, an information management device that will help flight crews perform tasks necessary to fly and navigate an aircraft. CEB has started to equip pilots of its ATR aircraft fleet with the iPad EFBs last week. The ATRs are flown under CEB subsidiary Cebgo and are mainly used for inter-island routes across the Philippines. An initial 70 pilots were equipped with the iPad EFBs, with the carrier targeting to equip all 120 ATR pilots by July 13, 2017. On the other hand, another 700 CEB pilots, or those flying the Airbus fleet, will be equipped with the iPad EFBs over the next few weeks. The investment in the iPad EFBs forms part of the PHP24 Billion capital expenditure earmarked by CEB for 2017. “CEB operates one of the world’s youngest fleet of ATR 72-600 aircraft, which is probably the most technologically advanced turbo-prop currently in commercial service. To complement the ATR, our investment in the iPad EFB aligns with our goal of operational excellence through the introduction of systems that enhance safety and efficiency in flight operations. With the EFB iPad, aircraft performance software and aeronautical charts are readily available, flight plans are constantly updated, and aircraft documentation and procedures are easily accessed; this is important when time critical decisions need to be made and executed in the flight deck,” said Capt. Sam Avila, Cebu Pacific Vice President for Flight Operations. “iPad EFBs will also help us reduce our environmental footprint and manage our operational costs. Traditionally, flight manuals, charts, and other documentation used by pilots are all on paper— these paper documents weigh anywhere from 30 to 50 pounds. Going paperless will reduce our cumulative aircraft fuel burn, and consequently our carbon emissions.” The iPad EFBs display a variety of aviation data such as weather patterns, maps and charts; and perform basic calculations like fuel consumption. These are also enhanced with navigation and situational awareness capabilities to simplify preparation and in-flight procedures, which are critical during times of high congestion or poor visibility. Moreover, CEB’s iPad EFBs come with a docking system that allow for seamless and fast synching and downloading of data to multiple devices. Initial estimates indicate that CEB would save an estimated 50,000 sheets of paper per year from the full implementation and use of the iPad EFBs. Added to the reduced weight of hard copy manuals in the cockpit, this would translate to a 17 ton reduction in Carbon (CO2) emissions and a five (5) ton cut in fuel consumption. CEB and Cebgo fly to 37 domestic and 26 international destinations, with over 104 routes spanning Asia, Australia, the Middle East, and USA. The CEB network operates flights out of six strategically placed hubs in the Philippines: Clark, Davao, Kalibo, Cebu, Iloilo and Manila. For bookings and inquiries, guests can visit www.cebupacificair.com or call the reservation hotlines (+632) 7020-888 or (+6332)230-8888. The latest seat sales can be found on CEB’s official Twitter (@CebuPacificAir) and Facebook pages. Guests may also download the Cebu Pacific official mobile app on the App Store and Google Play.