Manila Standard - 2020 February 11 - Tuesday

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Virus deaths top 900; WHO sees ‘tip of the iceberg’ GENEVA―The head of the World Health Organization has warned that confirmed cases of coronavirus being transmitted by people who have never traveled to China could be the “tip of the iceberg.”

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus’ remarks come as members of a WHOled “international expert mission” flew to China on Monday to help coordinate a response to the outbreak that has so far infected more than 40,000 people and killed 908 in the country.

“There’ve been some concerning instances of onward #2019nCoV spread from people with no travel history to [China],” Ghebreyesus tweeted Sunday, using the virus’s provisional scientific name.

“The detection of a small number of cases may indicate more widespread transmission in other countries; in short, we may only be seeing the tip of the iceberg.”

In related developments: The confirmed transmission routes of the novel coronavirus include direct transmission, contact transmission and aerosol transmission, a Shanghai official said on Saturday.

“Aerosol transmission refers to the

IN THIS ISSUE: ANNIVERSARY SUPPLEMENT

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VOL. XXXIII • NO. 362 • 6 SECTIONS 52 PAGES • P18 TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2020 • www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

4 more Pinoys aboard cruise ship test positive DOCKED AND DELAYED.

President Rodrigo Duterte said he will tap the military and police forces should the 2019-nCoV become a pandemic. “We are prepared tohandle all public emergencies in case the worst possible scenarios happen. Just believe in this government. We will do our best,” the chief executive said.

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Duterte to Trump: No to VFA, period

Passengers look out from their cabins on the Diamond Princess cruise ship (left), with 3,600 people quarantined onboard due to fears of the new coronavirus, at the Daikoku Pier Cruise Terminal in Yokohama port on Monday (below). Around 60 more people on board the Diamond Princess have been diagnosed with novel coronavirus, the country’s national broadcaster said, raising the number of infected passengers and crew to around 130.

AFP

But none of 32 repatriates from Wuhan showed symptoms

By Macon Ramos-Araneta, MJ Blancaflor and Joel E. Zurbano

F

OUR more Filipinos onboard the quarantined cruise ship in Japan tested positive for the novel coronavirus, the Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed Monday, as health officials seemed confused about extending the travel ban to Taiwan.

TRUMP TRUMPED. In this file photo, Philippine and American troops participate in the annual Balikatan military exercises, with the two presidents (inset) shaking hands, before the Filipino leader said Washington was insulting Manila’s sovereignty.

By MJ Blancaflor and Maricel V. Cruz PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte said he has rejected the pleas of American President Donald Trump to “save” the Visiting Forces Agreement, a military pact between Manila and Washington that Duterte seeks to terminate.

“Trump and others are trying to save the Visiting Forces Agreement. I said, ‘I do not want.’ The Americans are really rude,” President Duterte said in his speech Monday.

“They are really insulting.

Bordering on trashing our sovereignty,

they have reached the limit, and so somebody has to remind them,” the commander-in-chief said.

Earlier in the day, Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo said Duterte has not consulted his Cabinet members on his decision to terminate the VFA. Panelo said Duterte only seeks out the advice of his Cabinet on matters in which he has doubts.

“The President is the chief architect [of government]. He does not need to consult. Excellent president and a lawyer. If he has doubts on certain areas, maybe that’s the time he

SoKor film makes Oscars history MOVIE history was made at the Oscars Sunday as South Korea’s black comedy “Parasite” became the first non-English-language film to win the best picture award, Hollywood’s biggest prize of all.

“Parasite,” about a poor South Korean family infiltrating a wealthy household, won a total of four awards, defying the received wisdom that the Academy would overlook a subtitled Asian movie.

“I thought I was done for the day and ready to relax,” filmmaker Bong Joonho said upon winning best director honors, before promising to “drink until next morning.”

But a bigger shock was in store as the

movie beat frontrunner “1917” to win best picture.

“It feels like a very opportune moment in history is happening right now,” producer Kwak Sin-ae told an audience of Tinseltown A-listers, who cheered the film’s wins throughout the night at the Dolby Theatre.

“Parasite” also won the Oscar for best international feature, and became the first Asian film to scoop best original screenplay.

“We never write to represent our countries,” Bong said earlier in the night when he took the screenplay award. “But this is [the] very first Oscar to South Korea. Thank you.”

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consults,” Panelo said.

In a recent Senate committee hearing on the termination of VFA, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. said that he, along with Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, was not consulted on the possible effects of scrapping the agreement, which grants the US jurisdiction over American troops accused of crimes in the Philippines.

Panelo, who is also Duterte’s chief legal counsel, said that members of the Cabinet fully support the President’s move—even though Locsin had Next page

Meanwhile, the Department of Health said none of the 32 Filipinos repatriated from Wuhan, ground zero of the nCoV outbreak, showed any symptoms of the deadly disease while they were quarantined in New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac.

The DFA said the four Filipinos were among the six newly confirmed cases of

the virus on the cruise ship docked off Yokohama and were being treated in a Japanese hospital.

“The DFA, through the Philippine Embassy in Tokyo confirms that four other Filipinos aboard Diamond Princess tested positive for the novel coronavirus Next page

SolGen acts to cancel ABS-CBN franchise

By Rey E. Requejo, Rio N. Araja, Darwin Amojelar and Macon Ramos-Araneta THE government has asked the Supreme Court to forfeit the legislative franchise of ABS-CBN for violating the Constitution and for allegedly committing “abusive practices” prejudicial to the public interest.

Solicitor General Jose Calida filed the petition for quo warranto himself before the Court.

“The legislative franchises of ABSCBN Corp. and its subsidiary, ABS-CBN Convergence Inc. must be revoked,” Calida said in a statement.

“We want to put an end to what we discovered to be highly abusive practices Next page

Robredo cleared of sedition raps

By Rey E. Requejo THE Justice department absolved Vice President Leni Robredo and several opposition leaders of sedition, but approved the indictment of former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV and 10 others for “conspiracy to commit sedition” over an alleged plot to oust President Rodrigo Duterte.

In a 57-page resolution dated Jan. 27 and released last Friday, the department’s panel of prosecutors found probable cause to indict Trillanes, Peter Next page

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News

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2020

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Pope names Pabillo ’administrator’

SEVENTY-SEVEN volcanic quakes were recorded in Taal in the past 24 hours, signifying magmatic activity as the volcano remains under Alert Level 3, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said Monday.

The volcanic quakes included 11 harmonic tremors lasting one to four minutes. These quakes signify magmatic activity beneath the Taal edifice that could lead to eruptive activity at the main crater, the agency said.

Alert Level 3 means sudden steam-driven and weak phreatomagmatic explosions, volcanic earthquakes, ashfall and lethal volcanic gas expulsions may still occur in the areas within Taal Volcano Island and the nearby lake shores.

Plume emission continues to get lower, measuring 20 to 50 meters tall.

On Feb. 8, PHIVOLCS recorded an average of 116 tons of sulfur dioxide emission. It says entry into Taal Volcano Island, as well as into the areas over Taal Lake and the communities west of the island within the seven-kilometer radius from the main crater, is still strictly prohibited.

“People are advised to observe precaution due to ground displacement across fissures, frequent ashfall and minor earthquakes,” the agency said.

Local government units are advised to assess the areas outside the seven-kilometer radius for damage and road accessibility, and to strengthen preparedness, contingency and communication measures in case of renewed unrest.

In Batangas, houses damaged by the volcano’s eruption last month has reached 2,308, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and

Management Council reported, adding some 328 of the total were totally damaged and the rest partially damaged.

The houses, mostly located on Volcano Island and other villages near the danger zone, were damaged by the series of earthquakes in the area due to volcanic activity.

Meanwhile, a neophyte lawmaker on Monday pushed for the creation of a commission that will ensure adequate food supply during calamities or crises, like the the recent eruption of Taal Volcano.

House Deputy Majority Leader and Las Piñas City Rep. Camille Villar, in filing House Bill 5785, the “Right to Adequate Food Framework Act,” said “adequate food is not a matter of charity but a legal entitlement. Rio Araja, Maricel V. Cruz

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the vital signs and status of the PUMs, and provide appropriate health services to those who are quarantined,” Domingo said.

In all, 49 people, including the flight crew and ground operator, are being monitored.

The DOH has declared code blue in all government hospitals, health offices, and other health facilities in the region for swift medical response.

Those who develop symptoms, such as fever, cough and colds, and other respiratory symptoms, will be immediately brought to a designated hospital for isolation and proper clinical management.

As of noon Monday, there were 261 patients under investigation admitted in various hospitals. Some 48 of them have been discharged under strict monitoring.

Domingo said 109 of the patients under investigation tested negative and three tested positive for nCoV. There are 202 cases with test results pending from the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine.

“We have an increasing number of cases being sent to the RITM over last Friday, Saturday and Sunday. And the turnaround time for the RITM is 48 hours for the test results to come out,” he said.

“We are seeing a rapid increase in the transmission rate of the virus globally. “ Domingo said the department has strengthened its capacity in preparation for the possibility of local transmission.

He said all DOH hospitals are equipped to cater to the influx of patients and are following strict infection control protocols to contain the virus.

As of Feb. 9, the Epidemiology Bureau with the help of the police has identified all

441 contacts of the first and second nCoV cases in the Philippines, Domingo said.

About 224 out of 403 contacts have been traced for the third confirmed case.

Currently, 147 (66 percent) contacts have been interviewed and were placed under home quarantine, eight symptomatic contacts have been categorized as patients under investigation and were admitted for isolation and monitoring.

Domingo said all regions of the country now have patients under investigation.

He also said they were making sure that communities near the Athlete’s Village in New Clark City understand that they are not under any risk from the repatriated Filipinos.

He said the facility was “very, very far” from any of the communities in Capas, Tarlac.

“They witnessed how it happened from the time of disembarking and transport from the airport to the facility. No way to expose anybody to the virus,” Domingo said.

A second batch of Filipinos from Hubei province changed their minds and opted to stay in China with their Chinese husbands and families.

Domingo said Taiwan has been included in the travel ban, noting that only Filipinos and foreigners with permanent residence here will be allowed to enter the Philippines.

But Health Undersecretary Gerardo Bayugo said the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases has yet to discuss a possible travel ban on Taiwan, which recorded its 18th case of the viral infection on Sunday.

“It’s not yet agreed or final. It will still be subjected to a discussion and agreement

among the member agencies of the interagency task force,” Bayugo said in a Palace briefing.

Also on Monday, Immigration Commissioner Jaime Morente said 19 of his men who boarded vessels carrying passengers with a travel history in China, Hong Kong and Macau have been put under home quarantine as a preventive measure.

In a statement, Morente said that the 19 immigration officers boarded five different cruise ships that have passengers who visited China, Hong Kong, and Macau in the last 14 days, and arrived between January to February.

He added that the 19 officers did not exhibit any symptoms of the virus, and neither did the passengers that they inspected.

“They were assessed by competent personnel of the Bureau of Quarantine, who were part of the boarding teams that inspect arriving ships. We are doing this as a preventive measure, to ensure that our officers are protected from the virus,” Morente said.

In related developments: • Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III said overseas Filipino workers affected by the ongoing travel ban in China, Hong Kong and Macau will receive P10,000 financial assistance from the government. He also said Filipinos repatriated from Hubei province in China will receive P20,000.

• Flag carrier Philippine Airlines on Monday announced it is extending up to March the cancellation of flights to and from China and its special administrative regions in light of the latest developments relative to the novel coronavirus. The cancellation covered the flights to and from Beijing, Hong Kong, Jinjiang, Xiamen, Macau, Guangzhou and Shanghai.

warned about the consequences of terminating the VFA. “He (Duterte) said he will study it long time ago. They were just starting to review it, but he has been studying the matter for some time,” Panelo said.

Panelo said that he will be the primary source of information on VFA after his recent announcement sparked confusion.

On Friday night, Panelo said President Duterte was instructing Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea to ask Locsin to notify Washington that the country would terminate the joint military pact that was ratified by the Philippine Senate in 1999.

Medialdea and Lorenzana denied receiving such an order, however, and it was later confirmed that the President had not given that instruction by Friday night.

The VFA, which will be deemed terminated

180 days after the Philippines sends a formal notice to the US, allows the US government to retain jurisdiction over their military personnel accused of committing crimes in the country, unless the crimes are “of particular importance” to the country.

Panelo said the President is determined to scrap the VFA despite the Senate’s ongoing review of the pact.

He said Duterte has been studying the move after the US Senate demanded the release of Senator Leila De Lima, a staunch critic of the administration, who has been in detention since 2017 over drug-related charges.

Duterte ordered the termination of the military pact after the US canceled the visa of Senator Ronald dela Rosa, who led the Duterte administration’s bloody war on drugs when he was still national police chief.

Deputy Speaker and Surigao del Sur Rep. Johnny Pimentel voiced concern over the termination of the agreement, saying this would hamper the ability of US troops to swiftly provide lifesaving help to the

Philippines during disasters.

“We are worried that without the VFA, the US military might not be able to rush in if we need their support in saving lives during volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, super typhoons and other natural disasters,” Pimentel said.

“We’ve been consistently ranked among the top 10 countries in the world most prone to disasters. And we are a large archipelago. It is not easy for us to quickly move emergency equipment, supplies and personnel during disasters, given the limited resources of our own Navy and Air Force,” Pimentel said.

The VFA facilitates the temporary entry and stay of US military personnel, vessels and aircraft in the country, upon approval by the Philippine government, with minimal procedural requirements, Pimentel said.

Senator Christopher Go, a constant companion of the President, said he believed Duterte had the authority to terminate the VFA without the consent of the Senate, which had ratified the agreement.

With Macon Ramos-Araneta

in the ownership of the network, which is in violation of the Constitution, which bars foreign interests in mass media.

In particular, Calida accused the ABS-CBN of violating the Constitution when it issued Philippine Deposit Receipts through ABSCBN Holdings Corp. to foreigners, contravening the constitutional restrictions on foreign ownership of mass media.

The Solicitor General also claimed that the ABS-CBN abused the privilege granted by the state when it launched and operated a pay-perview channel in ABS-CBN TV plus , the KBO Channel, without approval or permit from the National Telecommunications Commission.

“While it’s true that broadcasting is a business, the welfare of the people must not be sacrificed in the pursuit of profit,” Calida said.

On the other hand, ABS-CBN Convergence Inc. (formerly Multi-Media Telephony Inc.) resorted to an ingenious corporate layering scheme to transfer its franchise without the necessary congressional approval, Calida said.

“It also failed to publicly offer any of its outstanding capital stock to any securities exchange within the Philippines within five years from the start of its operations, which is [an] indispensable condition in its franchise,” the chief state lawyer added.

This is the second time that Calida has filed a quo warranto petition before the Supreme Court.

The first time, he sought the nullification of the appointment of then Chief Justice Maria

Lourdes Sereno. She was later ousted by the 15-member bench for failing to file statements of assets, liabilities and net worth.

The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines denounced the Office of the Solicitor General’s move and asked the Court and Congress to prove their independence.

“This proves without a doubt that this government is hellbent on using all its powers to shut down the broadcast network whose franchise renewal, now pending in Congress, President Rodrigo Duterte has personally vowed to block. So much so that it would risk trampling on Congress’ authority to legislate franchises,” the NUJP said in a statement.

“We call on Congress and the Supreme Court to once and for all prove to the people that they are truly, as the Constitution envisions, independent and co-equal branches of government that are not at the beck and call of the executive,” it added.

“We must not allow the vindictiveness of one man, no matter how powerful, to run roughshod over the constitutionally guaranteed freedoms of the press and of expression, and the people’s right to know,” the NUJP said.

The Palace on Monday said President Duterte had no hand in Calida’s petition against ABS-CBN. Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo said the President does not interfere with the work of other government officials.

Asked if the President communicated with

Calida before the filing of the quo warranto petition, Panelo said: “None that I know of. What I know of the President’s style is, if you want to do something in relation to your job, do it. Let the law takes it course.”

Early in December last year, Duterte told ABS-CBN executives to just sell the network since he will make sure that they will be “out,” a pronouncement seen by media groups as an attack on press freedom.

Duterte has repeatedly threatened ABSCBN for not airing his 2016 paid election advertisement and for alleged biased reporting.

“If you are expecting that your franchise will be renewed, I am sorry. I will see to it that you are out,” Duterte said in a speech on Dec. 3 in Malacañang.

Panelo said Duterte’s threat was just an “expression of displeasure.”

“There is a basis for his expression of displeasure. What? He was a victim of fraud. And when he expresses that, that expression falls within the freedom of expression, which we cannot deprive a President of, given that all citizens are entitled to,” Panelo said.

Duterte’s threats came amid reports that Davao-based businessman Dennis Uy, who has close ties with him, formed the Udenna Communications Media and Entertainment Holdings Corp.

ABS-CBN Corp. on Monday hit the quo warranto petition filed by Calida, calling it an “ill timed” effort to close down the network.

P

nila for Rome to take on his new mission at the Vatican,” the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Manila-Office of Communications said in an advisory released Sunday night.

On Dec. 8, Pope Francis appointed Tagle as head of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples, one of the top posts

in the Vatican.

Pabillo, his replacement, has criticized President Rodrigo Duterte on a number of occasions in light of his criticisms of Catholic leaders and his war on drugs.

In June 2018, Pabillo called President Duterte’s remarks in a speech “blasphemous” after Duterte referred to a “stupid God” and questioned the wisdom of the Creation.

And in December 2018 Pabillo accused Duterte of making irresponsible statements when the President said he was wishing death on the bishops whom he called useless.

Duterte also said most of the priests in the Philippines were gay.

“These are all irresponsible statements since he cannot prove that,” Pabillo said.

“That irresponsible accusation does not make his actions and immoralities right!

The sins of others do not make his own sins right.”

Tagle celebrated his last Mass in Manila at the Manila Cathedral, the seat of the Archdiocese, on Sunday morning.

He was Archbishop of Manila from 2011 to 2020.

CPP-NPA terror Taal acts up with 77 volcanic quakes; alert 3 stays tag revival OKd

by Manila RTC A MANILA court has approved the revival of a Philippine government petition seeking to declare the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army as a terrorist organization under the Human Security Act. Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 19 Judge Marlo Magdoza-Malagar granted a motion for reconsideration filed by the Department of Justice, citing “higher interest of justice.”

“The instant petition is hereby revived and the petitioner is directed to immediately cause the service of summons to the respondents by publication,” Malagar said in his order.

Under the Human Security Act, the government may, among other things, seize “deposits and their outstanding balances, placements, trust accounts, assets, and records in any bank or financial institution, money, businesses, transportation and communication equipment, supplies and other implements, and property” belonging to an organization declared as a terrorist organization and its members.

The original petition was filed in February 2018. On Jan. 3 last year, the DOJ filed an amended petition before the Manila court, delisting 600 persons in the original petition.

The court dismissed the DOJ petition on Jan. 20 this year, citing the department’s failure to prosecute “despite the lapse of a considerable length of time.”

Robredo...

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Joemel Advincula alias “Bikoy,” dismissed police official Eduardo Acierto, and Fr. Albert Alejo, Jonnel Sangalang, Yolanda Villuaneva Ong, Fr. Flaviano Villanueva, Vicente Romano III, Joel Saracho, Boom Enriquez and one alias “Monique” for conspiracy to commit sedition.

In a statement, the panel said the “interlocking pieces of proof provide a complete picture of the grand conspiracy between and among some respondents to create hatred or revenge against the President and his family with the end in view of toppling and destabilizing the current administration.”

The prosecutors said Trillanes and his corespondents committed conspiracy to commit sedition after they caused the online publication of the so-called “Ang Totoong Narcolist” videos where the former senator and his corespondents insinuated that members of the President’s family and political allies were receiving pay-offs from drug syndicates.

The panel found relevant evidence to the case Advincula’s press conference at the Integrated Bar of the Philippines where he, among others, admitted to being “Bikoy”, the supposed whistleblower featured in the videos, as well as Acierto’s press statement on March 25, 2019, where he accused the President and his family and close associates of supposed links to drugs and drug syndicates.

The prosecutors also cited the admission by the respondents, especially the allegations of Advincula and a certain admission of Trillanes, “which bolster the existence of a grand conspiracy between and among some respondents to commit the crime of sedition.”

SolGen...

From A1 of ABS-CBN benefiting a greedy few at the expense of millions of its loyal subscribers.

These practices have gone unnoticed or were disregarded for years,” he added.

Calida said “a franchise is a special privilege granted by the state, and should be restricted only to entities which faithfully adhere to our Constitution and laws.”

Calida also asked the Supreme Court to immediately stop the operation of ABS-CBN’s Kapamilya Box Office, a channel subscription where viewers can watch their favorite movies for P30 to P99 per week.

Calida said the petition will show that ABSCBN has been broadcasting for a fee, which is beyond the scope of its legislative franchise.

“ABS-CBN Corporation is prohibited from using the free-to-air signals to profit from the public, except to comply with its contractual obligations under contracts with commercial advertisers and producers,” read the petition.

Calida said using the free-to-air frequency to charge subscribers is an abuse of its privilege.

“This warrants the revocation of ABS-CBN Corporation’s legislative franchise,” Calida said.

He said he media giant, hiding behind an “elaborately crafted corporate veil,” has been allowing foreign investors to take part

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mixing of the virus with droplets in the air to form aerosols, which causes infection after inhalation, according to medical experts,said Zeng Qun, deputy head of the Shanghai Civil Affairs Bureau.

• Nine members of a Hong Kong family were infected with the new coronavirus after sharing a hotpot meal, officials confirmed late Sunday.

A 24-year-old man and his grandmother, 91, were initially confirmed to have the virus. Hong Kong’s Center for Health Protection later said the man’s father, mother, two aunts and three cousins were also infected.

Officials said the family was part of a gathering of 19 who shared the hotpot meal over the Lunar New Year holiday at the end of January.

While the virus’ spread outside China appeared to be slow, Ghebreyesus warned it could accelerate.

“Containment remains our objective, but all countries must use the window of opportunity created by the containment strategy to prepare for the virus’s possible arrival,” he said.

Outside mainland China, there have been more than 350 infections reported in nearly 30 places. There have been two deaths, one in the Philippines and the other in Hong Kong.

Several countries have banned arrivals from China while major airlines have suspended flights, and Air China cancelled some of its flights to the United States.

The WHO-led mission to China is being headed up by Bruce Aylward, a veteran of previous health emergencies, Ghebreyesus said. Aylward oversaw the WHO’s 20142016 response to the Ebola epidemic in West Africa. AFP

OPE Francis has appointed one of the more outspoken prelates in the country―Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pabillo―as the administrator of the Archdiocese of Manila following Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle’s departure for the Vatican.

After former Manila Archbishop Tagle left for the Vatican on Sunday to report to his new post, the archdiocese was considered sede vacante, or Latin for “the seat being vacant.”

“At 10 p.m., 9 February 2020, His Eminence Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle left Ma-

Virus...

yesterday, Feb. 9, 2020, bringing to five the number of positive cases,” it said in a statement.

The agency reported last week the first Filipino 2019-nCoV case inside the ship.

In a recent statement, Embassy’s Deputy Chief of Mission Robespierre Bolivar said the Filipino was “responding positively” to treatment.

There are more than 500 Filipinos still onboard the vessel, which has been docked off the port of Yokohama since Feb. 4.

The Japanese Health Ministry said the ship would remain under the mandatory 14-day quarantine period until Feb. 19.

Health Undersecretary Eric Domingo said the 32 Filipinos who arrived Sunday from Wuhan, China, remain healthy and free of nCoV. In a news briefing, Domingo said all of the repatriates were examined before they boarded the plane, during the flight, after they disembarked and before being sent to the Athletes’ Village in the New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac.

Domingo said nobody went to the airport showing symptoms and nobody was barred from taking the plane.

The repatriates from Wuhan--14 females and 18 males—are considered as persons under monitoring and are currently being observed and isolated.

“Our on-site medical staff from Jose B. Lingad Memorial Regional Hospital will be working 24/7 to conduct daily monitoring of

Duterte...

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SoKor...

From A1 Bong also paid tribute to his childhood hero and fellow nominee Martin Scorsese, drawing a standing ovation for the veteran director of “The Irishman.”

Phoenix and Zellweger win The pre-Oscars favorite “1917,” Sam Mendes’s innovative and personal World War I movie about two soldiers crossing no-man’sland, had to settle for best cinematography, visual effects and sound mixing prizes.

Joaquin Phoenix won his first Oscar for his turn in supervillain origin story “Joker,” the film that started the night with the most nominations.

In an emotionally charged speech, the actor railed against injustice and “an egocentric worldview” that leads to environmental destruction, before paying tribute to his actor brother River, who died of a drug overdose in 1993.

“I have been a scoundrel in my life,” admitted Phoenix, thanking Hollywood for not “canceling” him out and urging others to show similar forgiveness.

Renee Zellweger sealed a remarkable comeback after six years away from the screen by winning best actress for “Judy,” dedicating the award to Hollywood screen legend Judy Garland.

“Judy Garland did not receive this honor in her time. I am certain that this moment is an extension of the celebration of her legacy,” she said in accepting her second Oscar.

Politics reigns Pitt, who claimed his first acting Academy Award for his supporting turn in Quentin Tarantino’s “Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood,” was one of several winners to strike a political note.

“They told me I only have 45 seconds up here, which is 45 seconds more than the Senate gave John Bolton this week,” he said, referring to President Donald Trump’s recent impeachment trial.

“American Factory”—he first film from Barack and Michelle Obama’s production house, about a Rust Belt factory reopened by a Chinese billionaire—won best documentary.

Barack Obama tweeted his praise for “a complex, moving story about the very human consequences of wrenching economic change.”

Best adapted screenplay went to Nazi satire “Jojo Rabbit,” about a young boy corrupted by fascism. AFP

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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2020 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

DOLE to monitor alien workers in POGOs workplaces.

In Luzon, 87 inspectors were dispatched in Metro Manila, 11 in the Cordillera Administrative Region, 11 in the Ilocos region, 14 in the Cagayan Valley region, 37 in the Central Luzon region, 32 in Southern Tagalog, 12 in Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan (Mimaropa) region, and 12 in the Bicol region.

Meanwhile, 11 LEOs will conduct the inspection in Western Visayas, 22 in Central Visayas, and 12 in Eastern Visayas.

In Mindanao, 12 labor inspectors were authorized to conduct verification inspection in the Zamboanga Peninsula region, 17 in the Northern Mindanao region, 12 in Davao region, 11 in Soccsksargen, and 10 in Caraga.

By Joel E. Zurbano

T

HE Labor department has started sending personnel in key areas nationwide to inspect and verify the legitimacy of employment of foreigners at Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators and other alien-employing business establishments in the country.

According to Secretary Silvestre Bello III, his agency is deploying 323 Labor and Employment Officers who will be conducting the nationwide inspection and verification until June 30 this year.

The move was in compliance with the administrative order signed and issued

by Bello last Jan. 31.

The LEOs will be joined by one regular labor inspector who serves as a team leader to supervise the conduct of verification inspection.

Bello directed all regional directors to authorize the verification/inspection of identified establishments and

Bello III

COA questions selection process for Kaliwa Dam contractor

THE Commission on Audit questioned the selection of the contractor for the P12.2-billion New Centennial Water Source-Kaliwa Dam project in Infanta, Quezon.

In an eight-page Audit Observation Memorandum dated June 10, 2019, the state audit body said that the technical working group of the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System failed to observe proper bidding and vetting procedures before it awarded the project to China Energy Engineering Corp. in December 2018.

“We recommend that [MWSS] management demand explanation from the members of the TWG for acceptance of the two bidders/contractors in spite of non-compliance with vetting/prequalification requirements,” the memo stated.

“Also, hold responsible the TWG officers for failure to conduct vetting of the project and or request for replacement of the two not qualified bidders, which deprived the MWSS to select the most qualified contractor,” it added.

The memorandum, which was prepared by officer-in-charge audit team leader Rency Meryl Marquez and officer-in-charge supervising auditor Ma. Nancy Uy and addressed to MWSS administrator Reynaldo Velasco, noted that the TWG of the MWSS shortlisted and eventually accepted the bid applications of three Chinese firms namely CEEC, Consortium of Guangdong Foreign Construction and Power China Ltd. even if two of them failed to meet the prequalification requirements set earlier by the MWSS for the project.

The Audit Commission found that one of the shortlisted candidates did not have the required permits, while another did not submit a bid within the project budget.

“However, during the opening of bids and in the evaluation of minimum Eligibility Requirements of the contractors, Consortium of Guangdong Foreign Construction Co. Ltd. was found to be non- complying,” COA said.

During the inspection, the inspectors will ascertain the legitimacy of the company as shown by the business permit and the Securities and Exchange Commission registration and verify the roster of local employees and the foreign nationals actually working at the time of inspection.

The inspectors will also check the list of Alien Employment Permit applicants if there are any, and the company representative should certify that they are indeed hiring the foreign nationals.

The labor inspectors shall submit a report to the regional director one day after the conduct of verification inspection.

In 2019, the LEOs were given authority to inspect establishments employing foreign nationals from Oct. 31 to Dec. 15.

FOR A HEALTHIER TRAIN.

LRT 2 personnel use disinfectant spray to clean the seats and handle bars of the train coaches of the LRT Line 2 at the Recto Station in Manila in an effort to curb the spread of the 2019 novel coronavirus that has already killed a Chinese tourist in the country.

Norman Cruz

Villar wants LGUs to fund agri development

By Macon Ramos-Araneta AFTER the Supreme Court affirmed its ruling to increase the Internal Revenue Allotment of local government units, Senator Cynthia Villar is pushing for a bill that will mandate LGUs to set aside funding for the development of agriculture.

Villar, Senate agriculture committee chairperson, authored Senate Bill 1138 or the “Local Government Agriculture Development Act,” which seeks to institutionalize a 10 percent budgetary allocation from the IRA of LGUs. The funding will be used for the implementation of programs, activities, and services for agriculture and fisheries.

“We need to strengthen local government participation in agriculture development by making sure pro-

grams for agriculture will be funded and consistently implemented whoever gets elected—advocate man ng agriculture ang mayor o hindi,” Villar said.

“Just like how, LGUs were required to allot budget for Gender and Development Program, we want local agriculture development programs to be funded also,” she added.

The bill seeks to mandate cities, municipalities and barangays to allocate a minimum of 10 percent of their annual development fund to the agriculture and fishery sector’s value chain of production, processing, and marketing.

The bill also seeks to amend for the purpose Sections 17, 106, 107, 110, 287, 443, 454, 482 (A), and 511-A of Republic Act 7160 or the Local Government Code.

The Nacionalista Party senator add-

ed that LGUs will have more money to fund local agriculture development programs after the Supreme Court affirmed its ruling to increase their IRA. The bill also seeks to professionalize the position of agriculturist for better extension services and will also make mandatory the appointment of agriculturists in cities and municipalities where agriculture and fisheries are a significant industry.

Under the bill, Local Agriculture Development Program shall focus on the areas identified as factors contributing to the competitiveness of the agriculture and fisheries industry. These are inputs including but not limited to seeds, labor, research and development, mechanization and post-harvest equipment, irrigation maintenance, production, marketing, credit, guarantee, insurance, farming systems, and organic farming.

Gov’t memo to help film, AVP workers

BIOHAZARD. Secretary of National Defense Delfin N. Lorenzana receives a

donation of an initial 200 biohazard suits, boots and goggles from LT Group and its affiliate PMFTC Inc. on Feb. 7 at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City. The protective gear will be turned over to the AFP for the use of emergency responders and medical teams who will handle hazardous and contaminating materials.

THE government has taken a step ahead in helping improve the working condition and occupational safety and health of workers in the film industry and those involved in audio-visual production.

In a Joint Memorandun Circular with the Film Development Council of the Philippines, the Department of Labor and Employment has set the guidelines governing the promotion of the welfare of audio-visual production workers.

Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III and FDCP chief Mary Liza Dino on Friday led the signing of the circular which spells out the pertinent rules on workplace safety and health.

The guidelines lay out the rights and duties of all workers in the audio-visual production.

An audio-visual production is a sector within the audio-visual industry which involves the creation, development, and production of the audio-visual content regard-

less of platforms (television, film) and all other identified digital medium where it is shown.

“Workers in the audio-visual production are working on set or location and in projects sometimes without the full benefit of certain provisions in the workplace that affect safety and well being,” Bello explained.

“These guidelines will afford them adequate protection and compensation in case unfortunate incidents happen,” he added.

Bello said the guidelines also establish procedures for dealing with workplace hazard and enforce the law for compliance.

Dino, for her part, said the signing of the circular is a ‘victory’ for all employed in the audiovisual production. She also hailed the labor department’s unrelenting drive to provide occupational safety and health standards and lead in the administration of safety and health laws in all labor industries. Joel E. Zurbano

Integrity of Tacloban judge who signed warrant vs. five arrested activists questioned

By Willie Casas HUMAN rights group Karapatan on Monday questioned the integrity and independence of Judge Eligio Petilla of the Regional Trial Court Branch 44 in Tacloban City, who issued the search warrants effecting the highly questionable search and arrests of five human rights defenders last Feb. 7.

“We have been wary of judges who facilitate the use of their courts for the judicial harassment of human rights defenders. Are they, in any way, related to executive officials who have been brazenly implementing Executive Order No. 70? Will their signing off on the supposed search warrants in the offices of

these organizations result in juicier posts like those magistrates who have done the same?” said Karapatan Secretary General Cristina Palabay, during a press conference in Quezon City.

Karapatan noted that one officer of the court have been “rewarded” with a Supreme Court post after dismissing a petition for the privilege of the writs of amparo and habeas data filed by three non-government organizations last year, while another one is in the running as a Duterte-endorse nominee for a Court of Appeals seat after issuing similar search warrants in October last year, when raids and arrests were also conducted by the police and military in Negros and Manila.

“Whether they have done this to further their careers

or out of fear or out of political pressure, the effects are damning—the political persecution of activists and actual harm on their lives, security and liberty. These judges should be ashamed of themselves,” Karapatan said.

Five activists—Alexander Philip Abinguna of Katungod Sinirangan Bisayas—Karapatan, Mira Legion of Bayan, climate justice activist Marissa Cabaljao of People Surge, humanitarian worker Marielle Domequill of the Rural Missionaries of the Philippines and journalist Frenchie Mae Cumpio—were arrested during dawn raids by the Philippine National Police in Tacloban City by virtue of Petilla’s search warrants. Karapatan asserts that the supposed evidence, which includes several firearms and explosives materiel, were planted.

Nigerian tourist with fake papers barred from NAIA GOVERNMENT agents at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport blocked the entry of a Nigerian tourist caught in possession of fake documents.

Bureau of Immigration-Travel Control and Enforcement Unit chief Ma. Timotea Barizo said 30-year-old Onyebuchi Emmanuel Ukeje was denied entry last Feb. 4 upon his arrival at the NAIA Terminal 2.

Barizo said the foreigner had just arrived onboard a Philippine Airlines flight from Bangkok, Thailand when he was intercepted.

“He was denied entry and was included in our immigration blacklist for using a spurious immigration document which is a blatant violation of our immigration laws,” Barizo said.

According to TCEU supervisor Juan Carlo Gomez, the African passenger presented a Maltese passport and identity card.

But inconsistencies in his statements drew the suspicion of the immigration officer who referred the passenger to the TCEU for secondary inspection.

The passenger later admitted his true nationality and stated that he acquired his bogus travel papers in Malta for US$2,500 from a Maltese citizen of Nigerian descent.

The BI’s forensic document laboratory, which examined his travel documents, also certified that the Maltese passport he presented is counterfeit.

The passenger, using his Maltese passport, allegedly left Malta in late December and flew to South Africa and Bangkok before proceeding to Manila.

According to Ukeje, he secured the fake documents because he was facing a “terrible financial challenge in Malta” and wanted to leave “to start a new life.”

Immigration Commissioner Jaime Morente reiterated his warning to aliens who plan on using fake documents to enter the country.

“Apart from our highly trained officers, we are also using the latest technologies in fraud detection.

These schemes will not pass,” he said. Joel E. Zurbano

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Opinion

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2020

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Information drive

EDITORIAL

poor and uneducated makes the information campaign critical.

I have been informed that somebody can have a strong immune system and show no symptoms and yet still be a carrier of the disease. This is why I intend to stay at home, my gulay!

A daily press briefing is not enough. I repeat: There must be a massive education and information campaign on this, which should have started yesterday!

All we can do is to pray that experts find a vaccine to prevent the pandemic. *** There are a lot of misgivings and contrary views on the insistence of President Rodrigo Duterte to terminate the Visiting Forces Agreement, a treaty which was ratified by the Senate in 1999.

The President is doing this just because the visa of his friend, Senator Ronald dela Rosa, has been canceled.

Even some of the President's allies in the Senate are not in favor of the termination.

Being the chief architect of foreign relations, Duterte has the prerogative to terminate the treaty, but he must at least have a sound reason for doing so.

My gulay, even the Foreign Affairs Secretary, Teddyboy Locsin, is in favor of a review! There is indeed a need to review the provisions of the VFA, especially the one that covers what ensues when a member of the US Armed Forces commits a crime here.

Santa Banana, in two cases, jurisdiction of Philippine courts was negated because of this provision.

A review of the VFA like the Mutual Defense Treaty and the Enhanced Cooperation Defense Agreement is necessary, indeed. But not for a reason as Bato's visa getting canceled!

But will the VFA be finally terminated? Can Duterte still change his mind?

IN MY past columns, I have urged the Duterte administration to embark on a massive education and information campaign in the wake of the dreaded and still incurable novel coronavirus.

It has spread beyond the borders of China; the World Health Organization has declared a global emergency because of it, Santa Banana!

It seems, however, that the Presidential Communication Operations Office under Secretary Martin Andanar are sitting on their fat as*es, unmindful of their mandate to keep the people informed.

The PCOO should just do its job.

Take a look at what is happening at the New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac.

The Department of Health had wanted to quarantine the Filipinos repatriated from Wuhan City there, but the Capas mayor initially declined despite assurances that the virus is not airborne and could not affect the community.

This is all a result of the lack of information about the virus. The disease is also generating Sinophobia or discrimination against the Chinese.

And yet the Duterte administration remains complacent about what is happening.

What I know is that it is not airborne, and one can only be infected by being in contact with an infected person.

This is why the Department of Health advises people who go to crowded places to always wash their hands. That's actually basic hygiene.

The lack of basic hygiene by the

Adelle Chua, Editor

M

ANILA Standard is 33 years old today.

33 today

Some ride it has been. During those years, many things have happened to the Filipino people.

We saw disasters natural and man-made, political scandals and upheavals, comeuppances and surprises. Many names came and went from the spotlight.

We’d like to think we have remained, steadfast, on the sidelines, watching what is happening and reporting it to the public to the best of our ability.

We’ve seen some shifts, ourselves. There have been changes in ownership, in management personalities and styles, in newsroom locations. We’ve seen dear colleagues and friends pass on. We’ve witnessed those whom we’ve worked

with change careers or move to other offices. Along the way we’ve also met resilient colleagues and lifelong friends.

We’ve both benefited from technology and found our very existence questioned, even threatened, by it. We’ve seen prosperous times and many challenging ones. We’ve been awed by what true, excellent journalism can do for society, and been dismayed by the temptations and the compromises that swirl around our complicated profession.

We struggle every day, and we are still here. What a colorful 33 years it has been.

Today we look back and look forward at the same time. What will the next 33 years bring?

Certainly, we are no longer young. We remain idealistic, while keenly aware of realities

that we must face and dilemmas we must resolve. We embrace the future with equanimity, expecting and preparing for the worst while hoping for the best.

Through all this, Manila Standard’s people have been the key. We have plodded along, working still despite personal difficulty. Asked why we stay on when there could be other lucrative opportunities outside the confines of our office, we say: We love our newspaper.

We stand with our colleagues.

We cherish our profession.

The Manila Standard family is committed to serve the public good amid adversity. Every day, we will make do with what we have and struggle to deliver ethical and top-quality journalism— whatever the weather, whatever the odds.

The coronavirus and freedom of expression THE coronavirus scare is driving the rumor mills in overdrive. Social media are awash with posts, feeds and comments offering alleged cures and what preventive measures to take, manner of transmission and other information concerning the coronavirus now sweeping across many parts of the world, particularly China.

The spread of fake news is such that the Health Secretary himself lamented that the rise of infodemic, or deliberate spreading of misinformation, is more viral than the virus itself. It cannot be denied that misinformation causes panic and undermines the efforts of the government to address this crisis. This concern prompted the Philippine National Police to take measures to crack down on rumor mongers. The authorities threaten to file criminal cases against netizens spreading misinformation using a martial law vintage statute, Presidential Decree No. 90 also known as the rumor mongering law.

PD No. 90 was issued by then-President Marcos four months after he declared martial law. The objective of the law was to stamp out “the utterance, publication, distribution, circulation and spread of rumors, false news or information and gossip that cause divisive effects among the people, discredit of or distrust for the duly constituted authorities and/or that undermine the stability of the government and the objectives of the New Society

and, therefore, inimical to the best interests of the State.”

Thankfully, PD No. 90 is a dead law, having been repealed

by President Corazon Aquino on reason that the decree was used as an instrument by the dictator to stifle dissent and muzzle freedom of expression. Clearly, that decree had the clear intent to prop up the Marcos dictatorship even if it hid behind such good objectives as national security and national unity.

People must be educated to be more discerning of what and what not to believe in.

Cory Aquino did the right thing in repealing the Marcos decree.

Today, we must also reject similar efforts even if the objective, in the case of the coronavirus issue, is laudable—to prevent panic because of disinformation.

First on practical grounds: threatening to punish peddlers of false news may be an exercise in futility. Assuming authorities can put a stop to spreading fake news in social media, this will only be effective against individuals operating within the country. Exchange of information in cyberspace is such that one can receive or send, with a simple click of a finger, any information to and from any corner of the world, even in the unlikeliest places such as Timbuktu or Easter Island. Unless we do a North Korea, Turn to A5

Will peace talks with Reds really resume?

TO HEAR President Rodrigo Duterte's latest pronouncement, it's as if the 50-year-old communist insurgency would soon come to an end.

What news reports said is that Duterte is confident that attaining peace with communist rebels may happen “much earlier” as members of the rebel group continue to choose to return to the fold of society. “(At) the rate that the NPAs (New People’s Army) are surrendering, I think we’d be able to realize peace much earlier. But the most important thing is to come up and comply with the promise to the rebels,” Duterte said last week.

The President revealed that he has ordered the military to let rebel returnees take over housing units intended for them: "I told the soldiers to let go of the housing unit. Just let the surrenderees occupy it. Give it to the NPAs." What Duterte apparently wants is for the communist rebels to simply surrender and lay down their arms, so they can avail themselves of ben-

efits such as housing and livelihood assistance.

But I don't think the CPP-NPANDF will give up the armed struggle they have been waging for half a century just like that.

I don’t think the CPPNPA-NDF will give up the armed struggle they have been waging for half a century just like that.

It's a pipe dream on Duterte's part to believe that the CPP would call on their cadres and members was well as the NPA guerrillas in the battlefield to slay down their arms because the government is willing

to give them homes and jobs.

From where I sit, the likelihood is that the communist movement would insist on continuing the political negotiations started in the Netherlands soon after Duterte took office but canceled not long after since the NPA did not want to agree to even a temporary ceasefire while the talks were ongoing.

Last December, out of the blue, Duterte said he would be willing to give peace negotiations with the rebels another shot, but only after a meeting with Jose Ma. Sison, the founding chairman of the CPP, pref preferably in Manila. He then asked Silvestre Bello, the chief negotiator on the government side, to undertake backchannel talks with the NDF in Utrecht. Bello has not issued any statement as yet on what happened to the backchannel talks.

I have it on good authority that the Reds are optimistic about the resumption of peace talks that would tackle substantive issues such as social and economic reforms first Turn to A5

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Opinion

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2020

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

No room for complacency vs. nCoV WE MUST heed the urgent call of the Department of Health to avoid crowding to prevent further spread of the new coronavirus or 2019nCoV acute respiratory disease.

DOH Secretary Francisco Duque this weekend strongly urged the general public to continue self-practice measures, as well. He also recommended the cancellation of public events "until further notice."

As of Sunday, the confirmed cases of 2019-nCoV reached 37,558, of which 37, 251 are in China and 307 in other countries, including the Philippines. The number has climbed since the virus' outbreak in the Chinese city of Wuhan, Hubei province in January.

There have been at least three confirmed cases in the country; there has been one death. This may seem a small number but the DOH has 284 persons under investigation (PUI).

Our main concern now is to mount a concerted effort to arrest the virus’ continued spread while scientists scramble to discover an antidote or vaccine against this pathogen.

The travel ban to and from China must stay while the DOH, with

the help of the Philippine National Police, tracks down people the three local coronavirus patients had contact with.

It's just not much fun in the Philippines right now. Much as we would like to keep the dollars coming, public safety must come first.

It’s just not much fun in the Philippines right now.

At least for the moment, we must heed the DOH call for extreme precautions, such as avoiding unnecessary crowded events or gatherings.

Higher authorities must also look into the fact that the Bureau of Quarantine had allowed some 778 passengers of the World Dream cruise ship from China to disembark and roam Manila last Jan. 29 after the luxury vessel was turned away by the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority on the same day.

World Dream along with the Diamond Princess cruise ship have been quarantined offshore in Tokyo, Japan. Another ship from mainland China, the MV Ligulao with a 20-man crew, was also allowed to dock in Manila’s south harbor last Jan 27.

Although no confirmed nCoV has turned out, the permission given to the World Dream passengers from China to go around Manila at the height of the global coronavirus outbreak remains questionable.

There should be no room for such complacency. As Duque said, it is best to self-practice the precautionary measures to avoid infection.

Note that this coronavirus cri crisis came about when thousands of our fellow Filipinos are still reeling from the devastation of the Taal Volcano eruption.

And yet, the pestilence wrought by the African Swine Flu (ASF) in Luzon is now wreaking havoc in Mindanao, particularly in provinces of Davao Occidental, Davao del Sur, Davao City and General Santos City.

We cannot lay helpless in the face of the grim reality of these widespread diseases. The Department of Agriculture, as well as the DOH, must find a way not only to stop the spread but to actually extinguish these pathogens.

We cannot wait until this coronavirus pandemic threat is eliminated after it started in Wuhan and eventually made its way to the Philippines and other counties.

We simply cannot accept the worst scenario of a global and countrywide coronavirus epidemic occurring at any time. We must be vigilant and prepared.

EvEryman

Fake and foul news aggravates virus

By Luis T. Arriola AS WE deal with this global emergency on the outbreak of the deadly coronavirus, any slight insinuation of foul play, unless substantiated, does not help at all.

Health professionals from the United States have expressed outrage over the uniformed remarks of Republican Senator Tom Cotton saying that the 2019 novel coronavirus in China was a biological weapon leaked from a laboratory in its epicenter, Wuhan.

Cotton made the remarks during the US Senate Armed Service Committee hearing with US military leaders, and described coronavirus as the "biggest and most important story in the world." He said it was worse than Chernobyl.

He also said that Chinese officials misled the public on the origins of the n-CoV that has killed at least 362 people and infected more than 17,400 others, saying it may have originated in a "superlaboratory."

Cotton’s remarks was called “ignorant,” “ridiculous” and “non-sense” and earned the ire of top health experts in the US, including a medical professor of Harvard University.

"All signs point to a pathogen that has been circulating in animals and jumped to humans. It's pretty common for these viruses and there's no good reason for him to be saying something like that," according to Dr. Michael Mina, assistant professor of epidemiology and immunology at Harvard University, reacting to Cotton’s remark posted in online news portal The Huffington Post.

Citing an article of The Huffington Post, Cotton suggested the coronavirus could have come from a Chinese "superlaboratory that works with the world's most deadly pathogens," boosting a debunked fringe theory, which has circulated among tabloids and conservative media outlets, including The Washington Times.

But the newspaper was quick to ask reactions from health experts, who dismissed Cotton’s claims.

Richard Ebright, professor of chemical biology at

Will peace...

From A4

and political and electoral reforms next, with cessation of hostilities and decommissioning of NPA forces the next logical agreement.

My source said there's a 50-50 chance that the peace talks would happen, and it's not because the NPA would surrender wholesale in return for housing and livelihood that Duterte wants.

Delayed by force majeure Three more months.

That's the period of time motorists and commuters will have to wait before a vital infrastructure project designed to alleviate traffic congestion in Metro Manila is completed and goes onstream.

The target opening of the Skyway Stage 3 was originally sched-

Rutgers University, said that “based on the virus genome and properties, there is no indication whatsoever that it was an engineered virus."

Tim Trevan, the Maryland biosecurity specialist, also commented that “the vast majority of new, nasty diseases come from nature.”

While Milton Leitenberg, an expert on chemical weapons at the University of Maryland, said he and other analysts around the world had discussed the possibility that weapons development at the Wuhan lab could have led to the coronavirus outbreak in a private email chain but that no one had found convincing evidence to support the theory.

“Hypothetically, a bioweapon would be designed to be highly targeted in its effects, whereas since its outbreak the coronavirus is already on track to become widespread in China and worldwide,” Elsa Kania, the researcher of at the center for a new American security ,said for her part.

The said medical experts have asserted and urged American officials to keep their mouths shut because such false accusation might inflict severe repercussions and misinformation, especially on social media.

Furthermore, the virus has also led to anti-Chinese sentiment in numerous countries, prompting local officials and community organizations to denounce surging racism against Chinese communities.

"Misinformation around these outbreaks is definitely a problem. When we undermine trust and get in the way of a public health response, those things can be really dangerous and really bad for trying to stop an outbreak," said Dr. Tara Kirk Sell, senior scholar at Baltimore’s Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security.

Nevertheless, foreign health experts say China has actually been fairly quick to address the virus and to alert international officials to the problem, and has shared information on the virus that has helped epidemiologists study and track it.

A one-time, big fund drive for PGH? I F T H ER E is a gover n ment institution that needs every bit of help that it can get from any source, it is the PGH (Philippine General Hospital). The training facility of the College of Medicine of University of the Philippines Diliman, PGH has always been beset by inadequate financing and enormous difficulty in trying to cope with the excessive demand for its services. Media accounts abound of urgent cases not being attended to immediately, of patients spilling into the hospital’s hallways of interns and trainees using their personal funds to pay for indigents’ medicine needs and of other situations similar in character.

PGH’s situation is truly pathetic.

It would like to fulfill the requirements of patients from not only Metro Manila but also the nearby provinces who prefer to have their medical problems treated at UP’s training facility rather than in their local hospitals. Unfortunately, it has diagnostic and bed capacities for only a fraction of the number of Filipinos who flock to it for treatment. PGH’s funding is limited to its allocation from UP Diliman’s share of the GAA (General Appropriations Act) and donations made to it by domestic and foreign benefactors. The funds are never sufficient, and in order to make ends meet, PGH has to cut back on some operational things—including things vital to a hospital’s efficient operation—and forego others entirely.

If government funding is inadequate, PGH can—and should— turn to the private sector at large.

In this regard I am reminded of how the late Gregorio S. Licaros responded, when he was governor of the then-Central Bank of the Philippines, to the request of the Community Chest of Greater Manila for financial support. The CB (now the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas) was a favorite target of support-seeking benevolent institutions because of the monetary authority’s influence over the members of the banking community; an endorsement from the CB, carrying the signature of the Governor, carried much weight with the banks.

A first-rate financial manager, Governor Licaros thought of a one-time, big-target fund-raising event to replace the Community Chest’s annual solicitation, which usually did not yield much money. With the much larger amount raised by a big-bang solicitation drive, the finances of PGH would become more stable and it would be able to make long-term plans.

An eight-figure amount was set for the big-bang fundraising.

The hospital has always been beset by inadequate financing and enormous difficulty in trying to cope with the excessive demand for its services.

To ensure the success of the fund-raising Mr. Licaros threw the full weight of the CB behind that effort. In speeches that he made before business and civic organizations, the CB chief managed to insert a request for support of the Community Chest fundraising drive. The banks responded handsomely, and so did the rest of the business community; the eight-figure target was exceeded. Community Chest did not have to engage in an annual solicitation drive in the succeeding years.

The Community Chest fundraising scheme organized by Governor Licaros is the fund-raising model that I have in mind—and recommend—for the PGH. The venerable hospital along Manila’s Taft Avenue is totally deserving of the full support of everyone, Metro Manilans and non-Metro Manilans alike, who values the dedicated and highly competent medical service it dispenses to lower-income Filipinos. The finances of PGH need to be placed on a stable basis so that it can operate without always having to worry about whether it can cover all its operating expenses. Ideally, the business community, with its abundant resources, should lead the fund-raising effort.

A one-time, high-target solicitation effort—is what PGH needs.

Let it happen soon.

The coronavirus...

From A4

say Epifanio de los Santos Avenue?

A friend who drove one time along the newly completed elevated freeway between C3 in Caloocan and NLEX vowed never to take the same route again as he experienced a nerve-wracking and time-consuming traffic congestion for more than an hour in a four-lane road (two in each direction) that's just a few kilometers long. He said vehicles stood unmoving for an eternity for no apparent reason.

Skyway 3 promises to bring motorists from Makati to Balintawak in only 15 minutes. But that's a bit more realistic than the earlier government claim that with ongoing efforts to decongest EDSA, you can travel from Quezon City to Makati in just five minutes. But with what vehicle? The discontinued Supersonic Transport (SST)?

a totalitarian state, which is regarded as an internet black hole, restricting access to the Internet to its citizens. Censoring, or worse, depriving Filipinos of the enormous benefits of the internet, is not doable; it is counterproductive as well.

Second, on constitutional grounds: criminalizing the spread of fake news and dangling legal sanction to whoever engages in it is to give a chilling effect to the free flow of ideas and free and open discourse of issues of public concern which is a legitimate and constitutionally guaranteed exercise of free expression. As Associate Justice Carpio so aptly puts it in his opinion in Chaves v. Gonzalez: “Freedom of expression is the foundation of a free, open and democratic society. Freedom of expression is an indispensable condition to the exercise of almost all other civil and political rights. No society can remain free, open and democratic without freedom of expression. Freedom of expression guarantees full, spirited, and even contentious discussion of all social, economic and political issues. To survive, a free and democratic society must zealously safeguard freedom of expression.”

Third, on political grounds: it is susceptible to abuse by the State by stifling dissent and punishing those who espouse ideas and views that run counter to official position. The case of Dr. Li Wenliang, the whistleblower doctor in Wuhan, is a case in point. As early as December of last year, Dr. Li raised the alarm about a mysterious virus that would become the coronavirus epidemic. He was detained and punished by the Wuhan police for “spreading false rumors.” He was forced to sign a police document to admit he had breached the law and had “seriously disrupted social order.”

Last week, Dr. Li died from the disease. He is considered a hero by many Chinese and protests against his treatment has been widespread. It has been argued that the coronavirus problem would not have escalated the way it has if only there were freedom of speech in China.

How do we then combat fake news? The way to go is not to imprison or impose legal sanctions but to fight it with truthful news in the same way that bad, hateful views can be checked with good perspective. People must be educated to be more discerning of what and what not to believe in, to become more vigilant, making it a habit to fact check every information received, and inculcating in Internet-users/media practitioners and the public in general a high sense of civic responsibility in the use of social media and other forms of mass media.

As we have seen in China, suppressing freedom of expression will worsen the coronavirus crisis and not help us address it properly.

ernhil@yahoo.com

Facebook: Dean Tony La Vina Twitter: tonylavs

Luis T. Arriola is a businessman and a publisher of AseanTimes Magazine.

uled for April 1. But a big fire in Pandacan caused the collapse of a 300-meter portion of it recently.

Because of the freak accident, San Miguel Corporation (SMC) now plans the 24/7 construction of Skyway Stage 3 so it can completed by July 1st.

The P37.4-billion project stretches from Gil Puyat Avenue in Makati City through San Juan City, Manila, and Quezon City, up to the North Luzon Expressway. It aims to cut travel time from Buendia to Balintawak to only 15 minutes.

We hate to be a party-pooper, but the claimed 15-minute drive from Makati to Buendia is good in theory, but will it really deliver in practice?

Would it really divert 100,000 vehicles per day from EDSA, or would it be another "Carmageddon" in the making, mimicking the vital road artery faster than you can

A5

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK Manila

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A6

News

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TNVS drivers protest vs. limiting service area A GROUP of drivers of transport network vehicle service hatchback units protested on Monday against Grab Philippines’ alleged discrimination and limitation imposed on their area of service.

The drivers who belong to Laban TNVS gathered on Diokno Boulevard in Pasay City past 6 a.m. for their protest caravan.

They held a protest caravan to let Grab Philippines know they are against the alleged discrimination experienced

by TNVS hatchback drivers.

The drivers said they could not offer their service in the entire Metro Manila.

Only limited areas were made available to them.

They also alleged that Grab was hiding the option given to passengers to choose a hatchback in the passenger app.

Laban TNVS spokesperson Jun de Leon said 300 TNVS hatchback drivers are affected as a result.

From Diokno Boulevard, the group went to the office of Grab Philippines in Makati City on Monday morning.

The groups wanted to seek a dialogue with the management of the ride-hailing app over its scheme of limiting service area coverage of transport network vehicles service hatchback and sub-compact units in selected central business districts in Metro Manila.

Protesting hatchback operators and drivers pointed out that such scheme of Grab caused burden to their livelihoods and discriminated against them as Manila NOTICE OF this meant reduced Standard EXTRAJUDICIAL TODAY income for them SETTLEMENT and their families.

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late They also Nelly Reyes Ledesma complained who died on November 29, 2018 in Makati City about the hiding is the subject of an of the “GrabCar Extrajudicial Settlement of Estate among Heirs Hatchback” seridentified as Doc, No. 64; Page No. 15; Book No. vice to the pas171; Series of 2020, in the sengers’ mobile Notarial Registry of Atty.

John Domingo A. Ponce, app options.

Jr., a notary public for and Willie Casas in the City of Makati.

(MS-JAN. 28, FEB. 4 & 11, 2020)

EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late CARLOS DEL ROSARIO TORT has been extra-judicially settled among his heirs WITH WAIVER OF RIGHTS consisting of parcels of land with improvements, to wit: • 1/5 share in TCT No. 218380; • 1/3 share in TCT No. RT-125115 (350914).

As per Doc. No. 225; Page No. 46; Book No. V; Series of 2019 before Notary Public ATTY. VERNA LYNN V. ACEVEDA. (MS-FEB. 11 , 18 & 25, 2020 REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES REGIONAL TRIAL COURT NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL REGION BRANCH 84, - QUEZON CITY THE HEIRS OF THE DECEASED AQUILINO P. LOPEZ namely, AMELEE L. BASABAS, GIRLIE A. LOPEZ and ARNOLD SERGIO RUBEN A. LOPEZ, Plaintiffs, -versus

CIVIL CASE NO. R-QZN-12206-CV FOR: Annulment of Affidavit of Self- Adjudication and Deed of Absolute Sale and Cancellation and Reinstatement of Transfer Certificate of Title.

SPS. EDGAR A. LOPES and CRISTINA C. LOPEZ Defendants.

SUMMONS TO

: SPS. EDGAR A. LOPEZ and CRISTINA C. LOPEZ No. 140 Mariveles St., Sta. Mesa Heights, Brgy. San Isidro Labrador, Quezon City

Military rapped for red-tagging

By Rio N. Araja RESEARCH group IBON Foundation on Monday filed an administrative complaint against government officials before the Office of the Ombudsman for their “malicious” red-tagging of activists.

Sonny Africa, the foundation’s executive director, said the complaint is the first “landmark” case of red-tagging filed against the government.

Africa, along with board trustees chairperson Bishop Solito Toquero, sued Southern Luzon Command chief Maj. Gen. Antonio Parlade Jr., former Armed Forces of the Philippines deputy chief of staff for civil military operations; Presidential Communications and Operations Office Undersecretary Lorraine Badoy, and NaNEW COPS. Some 231 newly graduated police take their oath during the 29th Philippine National Police founding annivertional Security Adviser Hermogenes Espesary at Camp Bagong Diwa in Bicutan, Taguig City. Norman Cruz ron, urging Ombudsman Samuel Martires to hold them culpable for malicious abuse of authority and negligent performance of duties as public officials.

The complainants called on the Ombudsman to hold the accused liable for gross disregard of public interest; unprofessional, unjust and insincere; politically biased, unresponsive to the public, distorting nationalism and patriotism, and undemocratic.

They anchored their complaint on the Ombudsman Act of 1989 or Republic Act No. 6770, and the Code of Conduct and of the whole population, as rice is our staple Ethical Standards for Public Officials and

By Willie Casas food. Scrapping the law is crucial to salvage Employees or Republic Act No. 6713. the country’s food self-sufficiency and circumthey requested the CommisARIOUS groups led by the rice watchdog vent the threat of total rice import-dependence.” sionEarlier, on Human Rights to look into the YELLOWofBLACK Bantay Bigas was the group that led CYAN the MAGENTA supposed violations the involved group Bantay Bigas on Monday urged the 50,000-signature petition for the law’s repeal government officials. public to “love” the national rice industry which it submitted to the offices of House Speaker According to Africa, Badoy IBON by joining the demand of stakeholders to repeal Alan Peter Cayetano and Senate President Vicente a communist front on the “One News” Sotto III last November. program “The Chiefs” in January 2019 Republic Act 11203 or the Rice Liberalization “The people already expressed their opposiafter their research head Rosario Guzman Law, which would be on its first year of tion to the law, thus, by March, we are aiming double-checked the PCOO’s “Duterte to gather more signatures of another 100,000.

Legacy” information materials. implementation on Feb. 14.

This would be an undisputed sentiment that While in Australia in February 2019, ParPeasant and sectoral groups Rice! Junk Rice Liberalization!” the people indeed ‘love’ our very own rice and lade hit IBON for alleged terrorist financing.

Amihan or National Federation Cathy Estavillo, spokesperson detest being forced to consume imported rice,” Parlade, along with Badoy, earned the of Peasant Women, Kilusang of Bantay Bigas and secretary- she added. wrath of IBON and other activist groups Magbubukid ng Pilipinas, Ami- general of Amihan, told the news Estavillo also announced that Bantay Bigas and when they, during a Palace media briefhan Cagayan Chapter, Gabriela, conference: “We call for a na- other peasant groups would kick off their protest in ing in February last year, also vilified Kadamay, National Food Author- tional undertaking to decisively the morning of Feb. 14, on Friday, in front of the IBON and “fabricated reports” for the ity Employees Association and protect and preserve our local rice Department of Agriculture central office in Quezon United Nations and European Union, Anakpawis Party-list held a press industry by demanding the repeal City. They would also have a caravan in Morayta and “[radicalizing] students as young conference in Quezon City to an- of the Rice Liberalization Law. Street in Manila, and an assembly with other sectors as seven years old to eventually become nounce their protest actions on “This is not an exclusive con- for the protest march to Mendiola bridge.

[Communist] cadres.” the said date dubbed as “Rise for cern of Filipino rice farmers, but For his part, KMP Chairperson Emeritus and In March 2019, Esperon tagged former Anakpawis lawmaker Rafael “Ka Paeng” IBON as one of the non-government Mariano said that the implementation of RA organizations backed by the Belgian Republic of the Philippines 11203 is calamitous to the local rice industry and government that “act as legal fronts for COMMISSION ON AUDIT livelihood of rice farmers in the country.

Commonwealth Avenue, Quezon City, Philippines the Communist Party of the Philippines“We witnessed the onslaught of the law, when New Peoples Army.”

CIRCULAR No. 2020-002 palay farm gate prices were at the lowest P7 per The group slammed the respondents Date: JAN. 28, 2020 kilo in September. There should be no debate that AFP and National Security Council for TO : All Heads of Government-Owned or Controlled Corporations, Government the law is anti-Filipino rice farmer, detrimental supposed refusal to provide it with piecFinancial Institutions, Government Instrumentalities with Corporate to the national food security, self-suffi ciency and es with evidence.

Powers/Government Corporate Entities, and their Subsidiaries, and Water Districts, Heads of Finance/Comptrollership/Financial Management self-reliance,” Mariano said.

In the complaint, IBON underscored Services, Chief Accountants/Heads of Accounting Units, Budget Officers/ Moreover, Jacquiline Ratin, chairperson of how the government’s crackdown on Heads of Budget Units; COA Assistant Commissioners, Directors, and Auditors; and All Others Concerned Amihan Cagayan Chapter, said that in their provprogressive groups heightened followSUBJECT : Adoption of the Updated Revised Chart of Accounts for Government ince, a one hectare rice farm yielding 100 cavans, ing the issuance of Executive Order 70 Corporations (2019) endured losses of more than P11,300 last Octoin December 2018 creating the National 1.0 Rationale ber, due to low farm gate price at P10 per kilo.

Task Force to End Local Communism 1.1 The Commission on Audit (COA) prescribed, through COA Circular No. 2015She claimed that if the palay prices were raised to and Armed Conflict with the respon010 dated December 1, 2015, the adoption of the Revised Chart of Accounts (RCA) for all Government Corporations (GCs) consisting of Government-Owned P20 per kilo, the farmers could have earned about dents as ex-officio members. or Controlled Corporations (GOCCs), Government Financial Institutions (GFIs), more than P28,000, that could have supported the Government Instrumentalities with Corporate Powers (GICPs)/Government Corporate Entities (GCEs), and their Subsidiaries, and Water Districts (WDs) family cost of living up to the start of the year. effective January 1, 2016 to align the entities’ reportorial requirements with those

Scrap Rice Liberalization Law, grains groups urge V

of COA and other oversight bodies including compliance with the standards issued by international accounting standard-setting bodies; 1.2

COA Circular No. 2016-006 dated December 29, 2016 was issued to provide guidelines on the conversion of accounts from the Philippine Government Chart of Accounts under the New Government Accounting System prescribed through COA Circular No. 2004-008 dated September 20, 2004, as amended, to the RCA for GCs under COA Circular No. 2015-010, and new, revised and deleted accounts;

1.3

COA Resolution No. 2017-006 dated April 26, 2017 was issued to prescribe the adoption of additional six Philippine Public Sector Accounting Standards (PPSAS) (PPSAS 33-First-time Adoption of Accrual Basis International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSASs), PPSAS 34-Separate Financial Statements, PPSAS 35-Consolidated Financial Statements, PPSAS 36-Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures, PPSAS 37-Joint Arrangements, and PPSAS 38-Disclosure of Interests in Other Entities) and updates on the PPSAS prescribed through COA Resolution No. 2014-003 dated January 24, 2014 in accordance with the 2016 Edition of the Handbook of International Public Sector Accounting Pronouncements (HIPSAP) published by the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC);

1.4

The adoption of the new PPSAS enumerated in Item 1.3 above requires additional/ modified accounts to facilitate the recognition of applicable transactions in the books of accounts of the GCs concerned;

1.5

Notwithstanding the comprehensive list of accounts included in the RCA for GCs, the Commission still receives requests from several GCs for the creation of new accounts and/or modification of existing accounts to recognize in the books of account the financial transactions peculiar to them;

1.6

The Commission recognizes the need to update the existing RCA for GCs prescribed through COA Circular No. 2015-010 to cover additional accounts and modified descriptions and/or modified account codes brought about by the implementation of COA Circular No. 2016-006 and COA Resolution No. 2017006, and provide the additional and modified accounts requested by GCs;

1.7

In light thereof and in consonance with the rule-making function of the Commission as provided under Section 2(2), Article IX-D of the 1987 Constitution, this Commission replaces the RCA for GCs prescribed through COA Circular No. 2015-010, as amended, with the updated RCA for GCs (2019) (Annexes B and C), forming part of this Circular, to be adopted by all GCs consisting of GOCCs, GFIs, GICPs/GCEs, and their Subsidiaries, and WDs.

GREETINGS: YOU are hereby required, within fifteen (15) days after service of this summons upon you, to file with this Court and serve on the plaintiff your answer to the complaint, copy of which is attached, together with annexes. You are reminded of the provision in the IBP-OCA Memorandum on Policy Guidelines dated March 12, 2002 to observe restraint in filing a motion to dismiss and instead allege the grounds thereof as defenses in the Answer. If you fail to answer within the time fixed, the plaintiff will take judgment by default and may be granted the relief applied for in the complaint.

WITNESS my hand under the seal of the Court, this 30th day of January 2020.

(Sgd.) Atty. CARLO EMMANUEL D. ONG Branch Clerk of Court V, RTC-84, Q.C.

Republic of the Philippines National Capital Judicial Region Regional Trial Court Branch 84, Quezon City THE HEIRS OF THE DECEASED AQUILINO P. LOPEZ namely, AMELEE L. BASABAS, GIRLIE A. LOPEZ and ARNOLD SERGIO RUBEN A. LOPEZ, Plaintiffs, -versus

CIVIL CASE NO. Q-19-12206-CV For: Annulment of Affidavit of Self Adjudication and Deed of Absolute Sale and Cancellation and Reinstatement of TCTs

SPS. EDGAR A. LOPEZ and CRISTINA C. LOPEZ, MARIA LORENCIANA B. LEE And REGISTRY OF DEEDS OF QUEZON CITY, Defendants. x----------------------------------------------x

2.0

ORDER On October 2, 2019, plaintiffs, through counsel, filed an “Ex-Parte Motion for Leave of Court to Serve Summons By Publication” before this Court.

It was alleged in the said Motion that the summons was returned unserved upon defendants-spouses Edgar A. Lopez and Cristina C. Lopez for the reason that they are no longer residing at their last known addresses. The plaintiffs do not know, and have no idea whatsoever as to the present address of defendants-spouses Edgar A. Lopez and Cristina C. Lopez where they can be served summons. Hence, considering that the whereabouts of the said defendants-spouses are unknown, plaintiffs move with leave of the Court for the service of summons thru publication.

WHEREFORE, finding the said Motion to be well-taken, the same is hereby GRANTED. Accordingly, the plaintiffs are hereby allowed to serve the summons upon the defendants namely: Edgar A. Lopez and Cristina C. Lopez thru publication in a newspaper of general circulation.

SO ORDERED.

3.0

4.0

Implementing Guidelines 2.1

The GCs shall recognize their transactions in accordance with the updated RCA prescribed herein.

2.2

The RCA for National Government Agencies (Updated 2019) shall be adopted by GCs in accounting for their Special Accounts in the General Fund (SAGF), if any.

2.3

The Coding Scheme shall be in accordance with the coding structure presented in Annex A hereof.

2.4

Accounts other than those provided in this Circular shall be used only upon prior approval of this Commission.

Annexes of the Circular 3.1

Annex A – Coding Scheme;

3.2

Annex B – List of Updated Accounts (2019); and

3.3

Annex C – Description of Updated Accounts (2019).

Repealing Clause All issuances inconsistent with this Circular are deemed repealed or amended accordingly.

5.0

Effectivity This Circular takes effect on January 1, 2019.

Given this 2nd day of October, 2019 at Quezon City, Metro Manila.

(Sgd.) LUISITO G. CORTEZ Presiding Judge Copy furnished: Atty. MARCELO G. REMPILLO, JR. Counsel for the Plaintiffs Suites 600-601 Carolina Corporate Center, 1203 J.P. Rizal Avenue, corner Cardona St., Poblacion, 1210 Makati City

(MStandard - Feb. 11 & 18, 2020)

MICHAEL G. AGUINALDO Chairperson JOSE A. FABIA Commissioner

ROLAND C. PONDOC Commissioner

Note: Annexes “A”, “B” and “C” of the Circular may be accessed in the COA Website at https://www.coa.gov.ph.

(MS-FEB. 12, 2020

‘BIGKAS SA BIGAS’. At a news conference in Quezon City, the rice watchdog group

Bantay Bigas leads rallyists Monday with their placard, urging the public to cherish the national rice industry by joining the demand of stakeholders to repeal Republic Act 11203 or the Rice Liberalization Law, which would be on its first year of implementation on Feb. 14.

Patron from Ilagan City wins P65-m jackpot prize of Super Lotto 6/49 THE Super Lotto 6/49 drawn Sunday was won by a lotto patron from Ilagan City, Isabela. The six-digit winning combination is 22-23-05-15-31-03 with a jackpot prize of P65,774,986.60.

Meanwhile, 29 lotto players won P28,240 each, 1,469 winners of P440 each and 22,137 winners of P24 each.

The Super Lotto 6/49 is drawn every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday.

PCSO would like to thank the millions of lotto patrons nationwide for supporting PCSO lotto and other PCSO products.

“With the public continued support of our products, PCSO can constantly provide charity services to all Filipinos nationwide,” the agency said in a statement.

All lotto draws of PCSO are aired live daily at 9 p.m. via PTV4 and on PCSO Facebook page.

For other details on PCSO gaming products, bettors may visit the official website of PCSO at www.pcso.gov. ph, You Tube account, PCSO GOV and PCSO Facebook Page http://www.facebook.com/pcsoofficialsocialmedia.

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

Sports

A7

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2020 sports_mstandard@yahoo.com

Navy tries to regain Ronda dominance S

Animam, Aquino lead PSA special awardees

TANDARD Insurance-Navy will parade former champions Ronald Oranza and Jan Paul Morales as it seeks to re-assert its dominance against a stacked field in the LBC Ronda Pilipinas 10th anniversary race unfurling on February 23 in Sorsogon and ending on March 4 in Vigan, Ilocos Sur.

THREE athletes, who played a huge part in completing a season to remember, are bound to reap the fruits of their hard work.

Jack Danielle Animam and her venerable coach at National University Patrick Aquino, along with Ateneo stalwart Thirdy Ravena will ≠be the recipients of special awards in the coming SMC-PSA (Philippine Sportswriters Association) Annual Awards Night at the Centennial Hall of the Manila Hotel.

Ravena is the year’s Mr. Basketball, while Animam and Aquino are going to be the first awardees of Ms. Basketball and Coach of the Year honors, respectively, from the country’s oldest media organization established in 1949.

The three are part of the long honor roll list headed by 2019 Athlete of the Year Team Philippines which will be feted in a grand March 6 ceremony presented by the Philippine Sports Commission, MILO, Cignal TV, Philippine Basketball Association, Rain or Shine, and AirAsia.

Animam and Aquino formed part of the undefeated National University Lady Bulldogs who extended their reign as UAAP women’s basketball champion following yet another perfect season campaign.

The team copped a sixth straight UAAP title with another 16-0 record, including a sweep of University of Santo Tomas in the finals.

Overall, the Bulldogs have extended their unprecedented winning streak to 96 games in a six-year span.

Aquino also served as architect of the Gilas Pilipinas women’s 5-on-5 and 3x3 teams that brought home the breakthrough golds in the last 30th Southeast Asian Games.

Working behind the core of the Lady Bulldogs led by Animam, Aquino steered the Filipina cagebelles on top of the podium for the first time ever by toppling long-time rival Thailand in the final game of the tournament, 91-71, ending a long year of agony for Philippine women’s basketball.

They did the same thing in the inaugural 3x3 event when they likewise thrashed the Thais, 17-13, for the gold.

The same season also saw the Gilas Pilipinas women’s team retaining its spot in Division A of the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup. And Ravena?

The well-built Ateneo guard served as the catalyst of the Blue Eagles completing an unprecedented 16-0 campaign in the UAAP Season 82 men’s basketball tournament.

Oranza, the 2018 champion, and Morales, who won it in 2016 and 2017, and the Navymen have loomed the early favorites to rule the 10th edition of the country’s biggest cycling race as they will also be bannered by consistent top 10 finishers El Joshua Carino, George Oconer, Ronald Lomotos, John Mark Camingao and many-time King of the Mountain winner Junrey Navara.

Newbie Lance Allen Benito is the eighth and last member of the Navy team that has lorded it over in three

of the last four editions of the race staking P1 million to the individual champion.

“We will just try to live up to what is expected of us, which is to win,” said Navy coach Reinhard Gorantes in Filipino.

Gorantes, however, admitted that this year’s race should be tougher since champion 7Eleven Cliqq-Air21

by Roadbike Philippines is making a much-awaited return since winning the team event seven years ago.

Mark Galedo, the 2012 titlist, will

spearhead the team that is also composed of grizzled veterans Marcelo Felipe and Rustom Lim. Ageless Santy Barnachea, who won the inaugural staging of this race in 2011 and 2015, will also make a comeback as he leads a youth-laden Scratch It squad as well as 2014 winner Reimon Lapaza, who will represent Celeste Cycles-PH-Devel Project Pro Team.

“There are a lot of team this year who are capable of beating us, 7Eleven is one of them,” said Gorantes.

The other teams joining this 10-stage race presented by LBC and supported by the Manny V. Pangilinan Sports Foundation are Go for Gold, Bicycology (Army), Bike Xtreme, Tarlac/Central Luzon, Ilocos Sur, South Luzon/Batangas and Nueva Ecija.

Backing up the race are Versa, 8A Performance, Print2Go, Petron, Green Manila

Standard

Republic of the Philippines TODAY COMMISSION ON AUDIT

Commonwealth Avenue, Quezon City, Philippines

CIRCULAR

No. : 2020 – 003 Date : JAN. 28, 2020

TO

:

SUBJECT

:

1.0

The Provincial Governors, City/Municipal Mayors, Punong Barangays, Sangguniang Panlalawigan/ Panlungsod/Pambayan/ Barangay; Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Chairperson, SK Treasurer, SK Secretary, SK Members; COA Assistant Commissioners/ Directors/Auditors; and All Others Concerned Prescribing the Use of the “Handbook on the Financial Transactions of the Sangguniang Kabataan” on the Proper Recording and Reporting of SK Funds

RATIONALE

Pursuant to Section 21 of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act (RA) No. 10742, otherwise known as the Sangguniang Kabataan Reform Act of 2015, the Commission on Audit (COA) shall formulate accounting guidelines pertaining to the proper recording and reporting of SK funds.

In consonance with the rule-making function of this Commission provided under Section 2(2), Article IX-D of the 1987 Constitution, a handbook on the Financial Transactions of the Sangguniang Kabataan is hereby prescribed to ensure a uniform and efficient implementation of the said Act.

Burauen City Mayor Juanito Renomeron, MDDRAMOa Alex Renomeron and Zaldy Monte in a courtesy visit to PSC Chairman William Ramirez at the PSC Administrative Bldg., Rizal Memorial Sports Complex, Manila on Monday.

PSC aids in Burauen arena renovation THE Philippine Sports Commission committed on Monday to provide the local government of Burauen, Leyte financial and technical aid for the renovation of Burauen Sports Complex Track Oval and Swimming Pools in 2021.

In a courtesy visit to PSC Chairman William Ramirez on February 2, Burauen City Mayor Juanito Renomeron reached an agreement with the sports agency chief for the planned renovation of the city’s sports facilities.

“The PSC is persistent in its mandate to make sports accessible to every Filipino, and to support local gover nment units on their grassroots sports programs that creates better citizenry through sports,” said Ramirez.

Renomeron thanked the PSC for its promised aid.

“We were surprised by the support coming from the PSC for the renovation of both our track oval and swimming pool. This is a great step in developing a better grassroots sports program in our city,” said Renomeron.

The city mayor added that the renovations to be done in the 6-hectare sports complex will boost their bid in hosting the next editions of PSC programs like Batang Pinoy and Philippine National Games, as well as the Palarong Pambansa in 2023.

Meanwhile, Ramirez is set to grace the opening ceremonies of the Eastern Visayas Regional Athletic Association meet at the Burauen Sports Complex on March 22.

In 2018, the PSC also partnered with the Mindanao State University for the refurbishments of its Track Oval as part of its aid in the recovery of Marawi City.

Muntinlupa Volleyball Club PVF champs a 3rd time THE Muntinlupa Volleyball Club stamped leyball Championships by winning both the courts of the Tanduay Athletics Volits class in the Philippine Volleyball Fed- boys’ and girls’ division titles for the third leyball Center in Taguig on Sunday. eration-Tanduay Athletics’ U18 Beach Vol- consecutive time at the indoor/outdoor sandTwenty-nine, two-player teams (15 in boys and 14 in girls) competed in the one-day league.

The teams represented private and public schools and volleyball clubs from as far as Lopez, Quezon, Pangasinan, Pampanga, Bataan, Cavite, Laguna, Bulacan and Metro-Manila.

Out of town teams were billeted at the comfortable lodging facilities of the center since Saturday.

There are no entry fees in all PVF and Cantada family-hosted events. Sumptuous food and drinks flowed freely for all participants, officials, chaperones and guests.

The swimming pool beside the sandcourts was also made available to the participants.

“At the end of the day and as always, the young players went home with fond memories of an experience only the PVF and the Cantada family are capable of giving,” said PVF president Edgardo ‘Tito Boy’ Cantada.

PVF Secretary General Gerard Cantada (center) joins members of the Muntinlupa Volleyball Club.

Cocolife Tigers keep hold on South Division MPBL leadership THE Davao Occidental Cocolife Tigers kept their hold on the top spot in the South Division of the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League Lakan Season after subduing Biñan City Luxxe White Krah Heroes, 72-66, in their recent penultimate elimination match at the Alonte Sports Complex in Binan City, Laguna.

Planet, Bike Xtreme, Standard Insurance, CCN, Lightwater, Prolite, Guerciotti, Black Mamba, Boy Kanin, Vitamin Boost, NLEX/SCTEX, Maynilad, 3Q Sports Event Management Inc., LBC Foundation and PhilCycling.

After the 137-kilometer Stage One, Ronda will resume with a 163km Sorsogon Legazpi Stage Two on Feb. 24, 126.9km Legazpi-Naga Stage Three on Feb. 25, 212.5km Daet-Lucena Stage Four on Feb. 26, and 155.4km Lucena-Antipolo Stage Five on Feb. 27 before taking a breather the next day.

Ronda will then continue with a 128.9km Lingayen-Lingayen Stage Six on Feb. 29, 171.9km Lingayen-Nueva Ecija Stage Seven on March 1, 177.1km Nueva Ecija-Baguio Stage Eight on March 2, 176.4km Pugo, La Union-Vigan Stage Nine before closing it with a Stage 10 criterium in Vigan on March 4.

The Tiger’s win tightened their hold on the no. 1 spot with a 25-4 win-loss record, edging closest pursuer Bacoor Strikers, who threatened to topple them following a 79-68 drubbing of Iloilo United Royals.

The pacesetting Mindanao team of Dumper Party List Rep. Claudine Bautista of Davao Occidental and backed by Cocolife

President Atty. Jose Martin Loon, FVP Joseph Ronquillo, AVP Rowena Asnan and SVP Franz Joie Araque, however, will remain at the top, regardless of the outcome of their final elimination game against Marikina today.

It was an easy sailing for the Tigers against host team Binan as they led by as much as 20 points in the third period en

route to victory.

They were powered by June Mocon’s 15 points and Chester Saldua’s 12, moving the Tigers beyond reach by second seed Bacoor at 24-6.

The Tigers managed by Dinkob Bautista and deputy Ray Alao denied the Krah Heroes a decent exit this season as their foes fell to a 12-18 record.

2.0

COVERAGE This Circular covers all financial transactions pertaining to SK funds.

3.0

SAVING CLAUSE

Accounting issues and other matters on the proper recording and reporting of SK funds not considered in the handbook shall be covered by supplemental issuances and/or shall be referred to this Commission through the Government Accountancy Sector, for appropriate action.

4.0

REPEALING CLAUSE

All circulars, memoranda and other issuances or parts thereof which are inconsistent with the provisions of this Circular are hereby rescinded/ repealed/modified accordingly.

5.0

EFFECTIVE DATE

This Circular shall take effect after fifteen days from publication in the Official Gazette or two newspapers of general circulation.

MICHAEL G. AGUINALDO Chairperson JOSE A. FABIA Commissioner

ROLAND C. PONDOC Commissioner (MS-FEB. 11, 2020

Republic of the Philippines COMMISSION ON AUDIT

Commonwealth Avenue, Quezon City, Philippines

RESOLUTION

Subject:

No. 2020 - 004 Date: JAN. 31, 2020

Memorandum Circular No. 2018-001 on the Guidelines in the Grant of Budget and Liquidation of Cash Advances of the Offices of the Commission on Appointments Members

WHEREAS, in the performance of its function to approve and disapprove appointments made by the President of the Philippines which forms part of the very delicate mechanism of checks and balances established by the Constitution to insure that the coordinate departments of the government will function in a way that will be most conducive to the public welfare, the Commission on Appointments (CA), through its standing Committees, conduct meetings and public hearings; WHEREAS, in carrying out such function, the CA engages in activities and transactions which are highly peculiar and different from the common or routinary governmental processes and transactions involving expenditure of public funds; WHEREAS, to effectively and efficiently perform its function, the CA promulgated Memorandum Circular No. 2018-001 (s. of 2018) providing guidelines in the grant of budget and liquidation of cash advances of the Offices of the CA Members; WHEREAS, this Memorandum Circular has direct bearing on the existing rules and regulations on similar subject matter promulgated by the Commission on Audit (COA) in the exercise of its exclusive authority, under Section 2(2), Article IX-D of the 1987 Constitution, to define the scope of its audit and examination, establish the techniques and methods required therefor, and promulgate accounting and auditing rules and regulations, including those for the prevention and disallowance of irregular, unnecessary, excessive, extravagant or unconscionable expenditures or uses of government funds and properties; WHEREAS, the efficacy of guidelines emanating from other government agencies, offices, and instrumentalities requires, as a matter of policy, the concurrence of the COA, in the exercise of its exclusive authority to examine and settle all accounts pertaining to the revenue and receipt of, and expenditure or uses of funds; WHEREAS, through letter dated December 13, 2017, then Senate President Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III submitted Memorandum Circular No. 2018-001 for consideration of the COA as guide in the audit of transactions of the CA; NOW THEREFORE, the Commission Proper RESOLVES, as it does hereby RESOLVE, to concur in the guidelines contained in the Memorandum Circular No. 2018-001 provided that the liquidations for the Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses shall be through submission of Official Receipts or Cash Invoices, if applicable or other documents evidencing disbursement and not through certification.

RESOLVED, further, the Memorandum Circular No. 2014-001 shall apply to the transactions of the current CA; RESOLVED, furthermore, that these guidelines shall be subject to periodic review by this Commission, and the Commission reserves its right to modify or altogether scrap the guidelines contained herein, with prior notice to the CA, when the interest of the government and effective state audit so requires.

Let a copy of this Resolution be published in a newspaper of general circulation.

Quezon City, Philippines.

MICHAEL G. AGUINALDO Chairperson JOSE A. FABIA Commissioner

ROLAND C. PONDOC Commissioner (MS-FEB. 11, 2020

Riera U. Mallari, Editor; Reuel Vidal, Assistant Editor

sports@manilastandard.net

sports_mstandard@yahoo.com

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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2020

Perpetual spikers move closer to seat in finals LOUIE Ramirez hit 17 points for the University of Perpetual Help System DALTA Altas, who repulsed the Emilio Aguinaldo College Generals, 25-23, 29-27, 2826, yesterday at the FilOil Flying V Centre.

The win allowed the Altas to stay unbeaten after eight matches in the 95th National Collegiate Athletic Association men’s volleyball tournament. It also snapped the Generals’ unbeaten streak and put the Altas in solo second with a 7-1 win-loss slate.

Kennry Malinis and Roniel Rosales provided 17 points for the Altas, who moved closer to an outright finals’ berth.

The Generals took a 22-18 lead in the final set.

But the Altas settled down just in time to take score the last eight points.

Emotions were high during the final set, but coach Sammy Acaylar just reminded the team to remain focused.

“Kasama kasi diyan ‘yung intimidation ng kalaban. Medyo naka-focus sila sa kantyaw ng kalaban kaya nawala ‘yung kanilang focus. So sabi ko, ‘Back to normal.

Back to basic. Just play and enjoy the game,’” said Acaylar In women’s action, the Lady Altas overcame a gutsy stand from Emilio Aguinaldo College, 20-25, 25-17, 25-21, 25-17, to get a grip on solo third.

The Lady Altas, behind Dana Persa and Jenny Gaviola with 11 and 10 points, respectively, climbed to 6-2 to firm up their hold on solo third.

This put them ahead of idle San Beda, which totes a 5-2 card.

Peter Atencio

Sports Ginebra braces for life without Slaughter Ginebra slotman Greg Slaughter is taking a sabbatical from basketball, leaving a huge hole in the middle for the Gin Kings.

G

INEBRA coach Tim Cone said he knew about Greg Slaughter’s plan to take a break from basketball and is is bracing for the Ginebra Gin King slotman’s looming exit.

But the multi-titled coach said he needs to sit down and discuss things with Slaughter first.

“Contrary to some reports, I did know Greg was contemplating taking a break from basketball,” said the multi-titled

GSM mentor. “We discussed it during our exit meeting immediately following the championship, and I hope to discuss it further in the next couple of days.”

“Obviously, his absence in the AllFilipino would be a big blow to the team

nouncement that was a big shock to the Ginebra diehards.

Last season, the Fil-Am behemoth was good for averages of 9.6 points, 6.4 rebounds, 1.0 assist and 0.9 block.

He’s the team’s No. 4 best scorer after Stanley Pringle (10.0), Japeth Aguilar (14.6) and LA Tenorio (11.8).

Aguilar is also bracing for a tough grind minus his frontline partner. “(Things) will never be the same,” he said on his Twitter account.

PBA inaugurals, D-League opening reset due to virus outbreak THE Philippine Basketball Association, in support to the precautionary measures being implemented by the national government amidst the novel coronavirus outbreak, is rescheduling the opening of PBA Season 45 as well as the coming PBA DLeague inaugurals.

The PBA season opener on March 1 has been moved to March 8 still in the same venue at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, while the D-League opening day has been reset from Feb. 13 to March 2 at the Paco Arena.

“It’s a preventive measure against nCoV. It’s now in place and will be implemented. The safety of our fans, teams, players and officials remain to be our utmost priority,” said PBA commissioner Willie Marcial.

The league top honcho, however, said there would be no changes in Day One activities, including the opening game that pits reigning Philippine Cup fivetime champion San Miguel Beer versus Magnolia Pambansang Manok.

It will be an early rematch between the two squads that squared off in the 2019 All-Filipino finals won by

PayMaya solidifies position as most rewarding wallet

D

and his teammates,” Cone said.

On a high from their Governors’ Cup title run, Cone looked forward to extending a great ride to the Philippine Cup—a tournament he’s yet to win with the Gin Kings.

Minus June Mar Fajardo at San Miguel Beer, Ginebra was tipped to be the team to watch in the tourney that is to fire off on March 1 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

But then came Slaughter’s an-

with new cashless campaign

IGITAL financial services leader PayMaya intensified its campaign to encourage more Filipinos to embrace the cashless lifestyle through the help of the PayMaya app, as it cements its position as the country’s most rewarding mobile wallet today.

Following the success of its “Don’t Pay Cash.

PayMaya!” campaign in 2019, PayMaya today launched its “BalikBayad” (a creative transliteration of the word “cashback”) campaign follow-up initiative featuring top young actors Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla, which highlights the many cashback that users can get whenever they pay with PayMaya.

“The response to our ‘Don’t Pay Cash. PayMaya!’ campaign last year has been overwhelming, and we’re glad that more Filipinos are discovering how easy, convenient, and ‘joyful’ it is to pay using PayMaya. As we work to bring even more features and services to PayMaya we’re excited to introduce the most rewarding mobile wallet in the Philippines today to even more users nationwide with the ‘BalikBayad’ campaign,” said Mark Jason Dee, Head of Growth and Marketing of PayMaya.

In February alone, PayMaya users can get as much as P6,000 in cashback when they participate in the mobile wallet’s various promos for bills payment, buying load, paying for goods and services via QR, online shopping, and sending money, among many others.

PayMaya has also expanded the list of merchants and establishments under its PayMaya Preferred program, which gives additional cashback to users who scan to pay with PayMaya QR on top of the regular cashback that they usually receive. Some of these new partners include Landers Superstore, Mercury Drug, KFC, Robinson’s Department Store, Total Alabang and Valenzuela, and Toys ‘R Us, among many others.

These cashback help more Filipinos easily learn and experience paying with cashless methods such as PayMaya, which can help contribute to achieving the goal of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) of increasing the share of digital transactions in the country to 30% by the end of 2020.

Bringing back time and convenience But aside from getting monetary rewards in the form of cashback every time they pay, users are also able to make more time and experience greater convenience when they use PayMaya.

With PayMaya’s virtual card, for example, users can instantly gain access to a payment card which they can easily use for online shopping and other digital payments for a faster, more efficient payment experience.

PAYMAYA SOLIDIFIES ITS POSITION AS THE MOST REWARDING MOBILE WALLET IN THE PHILIPPINES TODAY. Through the launch of its new

“BalikBayad” campaign, PayMaya is encouraging more Filipinos to experience the convenience, safety, and rewards of going cashless through the help of iconic young actors Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla. Joining them at the official launch of the campaign were PayMaya Founder and CEO Orlando B. Vea (2nd from left), President Shailesh Baidwan (2nd from right), Head of Marketing and Growth Mark Jason Dee (rightmost) and Head of Brand and Marketing Services Heidi Garayblas (leftmost).

PayMaya also recently introduced the ability to transfer money from users’ PayMaya account to other bank accounts, eliminating the need to wait in line at bank branches in order to make a bank deposit.

“PayMaya users can definitely look forward to even more features and services that will give them more convenient ways to pay as well as awesome rewards in the months to come,” Dee added.

Instantly get rewarded Revel in a more rewarding cashless lifestyle by downloading the PayMaya app for FREE on Google Play or App Store and use the code PAYMAYAKATHNIEL to get a welcome reward. Sign up for an account today so you can take advantage of PayMaya’s great deals, promos and offers. To know more about the BalikBayad campaign and how you can get all of these exciting perks from PayMaya, visit www.paymaya.com/balikbayad or follow @PayMayaOfficial on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

PayMaya is the only financial technology company in the country that offers end-to-end payment solutions with the widest on-ground branch network. It is the first to give millions of Filipinos an e-wallet that allows them to pay cashless transactions at any time of the day, anywhere in the world, and from any device.

the Beermen in the deciding Game Seven.

The inaugural game will be ushered in by the Season 44 Leo Awards to be highlighted by the coronation of the season MVP. As the stats race winner and being the lead man of the SMB team that barely came up short of completing a grand slam, Cebuano behemoth June Mar Fajardo looks poised to bag a sixth MVP plum.

Columbian Dyip’s CJ Perez, NLEX’s Christian Standhardinger and TNT KaTropa’s Jayson Castro are the other MVP contenders.

Morrison shatters shot put PH record with 20.21 meters

By Peter Atencio FIL-AMERICAN bet William set a new national indoor record again.

This time, Morrison did it at the Meyo Invitational on Saturday afternoon in Indiana.

According to the event’s official website, Morrison joined Ben Veatch and Teddy Browning in creating a ripple on the last day of the meet.

Veatch and Browning ruled the 1-mile run in impressive fashions.

Morrison heaved 20.21 meters for the bronze on his sixth and final attempt, surpassing his 19.06-meter effort last month at the Indiana University Relays.

Tim Nedow took the gold medal after heaving 20.9 meters on his second try, while Jalil Brewer of Purdue settled for the silver on his final bid at 19.47 meters On January 19, Morrison had his 19.06-meter feat in the men’s shotput event of the Indiana relays.

Morrison is seeking to hit the qualifying standard of 21.10 to the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and he will again try to do so in the coming outdoor tournaments.

Earlier, Morrison hurled 19.17 meters during a two-day indoor meet at the Vanderbilt University Recreational Center in Nashville,Tennessee.

He is best remembered during the 30th Southeast Asian Games, where Morrison claimed the gold with his 18.38-meter effort.

All his recent feats are below the national mark of 20.40 meters, which he achieved last June.

So far, only one athlete from athletics has earned an Olympic ticket, pole vaulter Ernest John Obiena.

Female pole vaulter Natalie Uy, sprinter-hurdler Eric Cray, runner Kristina Knott, newlyadded marathoner Christine Hallasgo and Mary Joy Tabal are also seeking berths to the Olympics through qualifiers, along with Morrison.

They were seeking Olympic qualification at the World Indoor Athletics Championships that was supposed to be held in Nanjing this March.

But the event has been postponed by a year to March 2021 because of the coronavirus, which has now infected 40,000 people worldwide and above 900 deaths.

Cavaliers, Warriors take UNTV Game 1 DEFENDING champion Armed Forces of the Philippines and Department of Environment and Natural Resources showed no signs of rust from a two-week break as they took Game 1 of their respective bestof-three semis series in the 8th UNTV Cup held over the weekend Paco Arena in Manila.

The AFP Cavaliers, bidding to become the first back-to-back champions of the annual tournament for public servants, outlasted the Judiciary Magis, 79-74, while the DENR Warriors clobbered the National Housing Authority Builders, 79-63.

AFP and DENR, which advanced outright to the semis after finishing 1-2 in the two-phase elimination round of the event organized by UNTV President and CEO Dr. Daniel Razon, can forge a title duel starting next week if they prevail anew on Sunday.

In getting back at the team that handed them their only defeat in the elims, the Cavaliers leaned on a well-balanced attack to inch closer to earning another trip to the finals.

In a show of force, five AFP players scored Games Sunday (Paco Arena) 3:30 p.m. – Judiciary vs AFP 5 p.m. – NHA vs DENR

AFP’s Romeo Almerol drives to the basket against Judiciary’s Chester Tolomia during Game 1 of their semis series, which the AFP Cavaliers won, 79-74.

in double figures with Jerry Lumungsod leading the way with 13, Darwin Cordero and Ezer Rosopa adding 12 each, Romeo Almerol 11 and Wilfredo Casulla 10.

Business

IN BRIEF EastWest bares P2-b maiden bond issuance EASTWEST, the most consumer-focused universal bank, announced its maiden bond issuance of P2 billion due 2023. The bonds carry an interest rate of 4.5 percent a year to be paid quarterly for three years.

The bank’s first bond offering starts on February 10 until February 14, 2020, and is available for a minimum investment of P500,000 and increments of P100,000 thereafter.

“Through its maiden bond issuance, EastWest aims to serve its clients better by providing alternative investment products,” said EastWest senior executive vice president and treasurer Rafael Algarra Jr. “The bond issuance will also pave the way for future issuances and strengthen the Bank’s liquidity position by diversifying its sources of funding,” he added.

The bank posted a net income growth of 43 percent to P4.6 billion in the third quarter of 2019 and a return on equity of 14 percent, on track to achieve its most profitable year. Total assets grew by 15 percent to ₱387.3 billion.

The bonds will be sold through selling agents EastWest and Unicapital Inc., also the lead arranger of the bonds.

7-Eleven, Seven Bank of Japan teaming up PHILIPPINE Seven Corp., the local franchise holder of convenience store chain 7-Eleven, teamed up with the local unit of Japan’s Seven Bank to put up automated teller machines in 7-Eleven stores across the country.

PSC said in a disclosure to the stock exchange Monday it signed an agreement with PITO AxM Platform Inc., the local subsidiary of Seven Bank, to equip 7-Eleven stores with ATMs that can facilitate both real-time cash deposits and withdrawals.

PSC was operating 2,864 7-Eleven stores across the country as of end-December 2019.

Under the agreement, the ATMs will be deployed within 7-Eleven stores staring this June and are expected to be in all stores in the next few years.

Among the features of the ATMs is a cash recycling function that enables the machine to dispense banknotes deposited by the 7-Eleven stores and customers of PAPI partner banks. All ATM cardholders will benefit from the ATMs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

“Both PSC and Seven Bank have believed in the potential for sustainable financial inclusion presented by recoiling ATMs in 7-Eleven stores all across the Philippines for some time.

Jenniffer B. Austria

business@manilastandard.net extrastory2000@gmail.com TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2020

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Bank sees nCoV hurting PH tourism

By Julito G. Rada

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FOREIGN bank said Monday the 2019 novel coronavirus will have more impact on the Philippines’ tourism industry than on the exports sector.

“We see that the nCoV outbreak might have minimum direct impact to exports, as trade with Hubei province account for less than 1 percent of total trade,” DBS Bank of Singapore said in a report.

“The bigger impact of nCoV would be on tourism, accounting for 5 percent of GDP, rather than on trade. Overall, we see risk of trade deficit to widen in the first half of 2020,” DBS said.

Local airlines suspended flights between the Philippines and China amid a temporary government ban on visitors from China, Macau and Hong Kong.

Cathay Pacific, the flag carrier of Hong Kong, announced that it was cutting more than half of its flights and told its

employees to take unpaid leaves.

China is the second largest source of international visitor arrivals in the Philippines, with 1.26 million Chinese travelers visiting the country in 2018.

Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said last week tourism sector would be “badly hit” by the spread of the nCoV because of the travel ban imposed by the government to and from some areas in China.

“Significantly, the impact will be on the tourism sector as global travels are taking a hit because airlines [suspend] trips to and from China,” Dominguez said in a Senate hearing.

Dominguez said that during the SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome) episode, visitor arrivals in the Philippines went down by 1.3 percent, from 1.93 million in 2002 to 1.9 million in 2003.

He said arrivals rebounded quickly by 20.1 percent to 2.3 million in 2004.

Data showed that arrivals increased continuously until the H1N1 outbreak in 2009 which resulted in a slight decrease in tourism traffic.

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Benjamin Diokno said earlier the novel coronavirus would likely reduce Philippine economic growth this year

Coseteng welcomes action vs 6 steel firms FORMER senator Nikki Coseteng commended the Department of Trade and Industry for suspending the Philippine Standard licenses of six steel manufacturers for allegedly producing non-conforming steel products.

“We welcome the DTI’s efforts toward testing sub-standard steel bars that would certainly affect the “build, build, build program” of this administration and risk the lives of millions of people when the ‘Big One’ happens,” said Coseteng.

Coseteng, a leading public safety advocate, also suggested a transparency report on a regular basis, generally disclosing test results conducted on quench-tempered (QT) bars.

“Of course, the public deserves to know how these bars are being tested. Testing that includes welding, bending, threading and more importantly cyclic loading tests to determine to what earthquake magnitude it would stand,” she said.

“And I believe the public should be made aware that due diligence is being undertaken by the DTI to protect not only our safety but our lives when this so-called the Big One happens,” she added.

Ray S. Eñano, Editor Roderick T. dela Cruz, Assistant Editor

KFC FRANCHISING. Kentucky Fried Chicken is now inviting entrepreneurs to become pioneer franchisees. This is KFC’s first time in its decades-long operations in the Philippines to team up with local investors. The brand which opened its first Philippine store in 1966 has since expanded into more than 300 stores today. Leading signing of the partnership agreement are KFC Philippines president Jerome Tuguin (fourth from left) and KFC Asia Valerie Kubizniak (fifth from left), along with other executives of KFC Philippines and KFC Asia.

CALAX’s Cavite side begins construction

By Darwin G. Amojelar MPCALA Holdings Inc., a unit of Metro Pacific Tollways Corp., said Monday it started the construction of the Cavite side of the Cavity Laguna Expressway Project.

The company said preparations to start the construction of the second segment (Silang to Kawit) of CALAX began in January 2020. It is expected to be completed by 2022.

MPCALA Holdings Inc. tapped Leighton Holdings of Australia to build the Cavite side and local contractor DMCI Consunji Inc. to construct the Laguna segment.

The Cavite segment spans 35 kilometers of the 45-kilometer Cavite-Laguna Expressway. It starts from Kawit, Cavite and traverses the Imus Open Canal, Governor’s Drive, Dasmariñas, Aguinaldo Highway and Silang which will connect to the

Laguna segment from Sta. Rosa exiting to Mamplasan, Biñan Laguna towards South Luzon Expressway.

The Laguna side of Calax, the 10.7-kilometer stretch that starts from the Mamplasan entry and the Santa Rosa-Tagaytay Interchange, opened to the public on Feb. 9.

“The end-to-end opening of the first segment of CALAX is imperative to reduce traffic congestion in various parts of Laguna specifically Laguna Boulevard and Aguinaldo Highway,” said MPCALA president and general manager Roberto Bontia.

“Now that all lanes are accessible, it serves as a viable option for motorists given the growing traffic demands in the area,” Bontia said.

The 45-kilometer CALAX is a 2x2 lane expressway that will soon connect the CAVITEX in Kawit, Cavite to the Mamplasan Interchange in Biñan, Laguna.

PECO faces permit revocation, says ERC

By Alena Mae S. Flores THE Energy Regulatory Commission said Panay Electric Co.’s operational lapses could be grounds for the revocation of its certificate of public convenience and necessity.

The regulator, however, said it could not transfer the CPCN to More Electric Power Corp. yet because of pending legal issues.

ERC chairperson Agnes Devanadera said PECO had rectified some, but not all the concerns raised by the agency’s technical team.

The team that conducted an ocular inspection on the electric distribution system of PECO last year found that the distributor committed lapses in the operations and maintenance of its distribution system.

Devanadera said there were hundreds of pole fires in Iloilo City, the franchise area of PECO.

“There were pole fires and for a year there were 400, 500 pole fires, so how do you explain that? The explanation that it’s all in the telcos...but the poles are their responsibilities and the telcos pay the DU [distribution utility]. So for us, who is the one ultimately liable and responsible?”

Devanadera said.

ERC last year directed PECO, the power distributor of Iloilo City, to submit its explanation for the apparent operational lapses found by the agency’s inspection team.

PECO operates the distribution network of Iloilo City by virtue of an ERCissued CPCN. A new distribution utility, MORE, is set to take over the city’s distribution system, but PECO contested this in court.

Devanadera said MORE had not yet received its writ of possession of the distribution assets of PECO.

by 0.3 percent. The interagency Development Budget Coordination Committee projected a 6.5 percent to 7.5 percent economic expansion this year.

Diokno, however, said the country’s macroeconomic fundamentals remained solid and strong to weather any potential headwinds coming from global and domestic fronts.

“The impact could be something like 0.3 percent,” Diokno said.

Diokno said the epidemic could reduce GDP growth in the first quarter by 0.2 percent and in the second quarter by 0.4 percent.

He said the imposition of travel ban to and from China would hinder the flow of tourist arrivals in the country.

Diokno said while the tourism sector would feel the impact of the epidemic scare, the export sector would not be significantly affected simply because “we are not an exporting country.”

The latest reports showed that the epidemic claimed the lives of 908 individuals in mainland China. The outbreak also caused huge disruptions in China as Communist Party rulers ordered virtual lockdowns of cities, cancelled flights, closed factories and shut schools.

FDI inflows rose 14.6% to $623m in November NET inflows of foreign direct investments climbed 14.6 percent in November 2019 to $623 million from $543 million a year ago, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas said Monday.

“This was due mainly to the increases posted in all FDI components. In particular, net investments in debt instruments [consisting mainly of intercompany borrowing/lending between foreign direct investors and their subsidiaries/affiliates in the Philippines] recorded net inflows of $380 million from $341 million in November 2018,” the BSP said in a statement.

Net investments in equity capital grew by 12.9 percent as equity capital placements ($174 million) more than offset equity capital withdrawals ($19 million). Reinvestment of earnings also increased by 35.1 percent to $88 million during the period.

The bulk of equity capital placements came mainly from the United States, Thailand, Japan and South Korea. These investments were channeled mostly to the financial and insurance, and real estate industries.

Data, however, showed that from January to November 2019, FDI net inflows declined 29.9 percent to $6.4 billion from $9.2 billion in the same period in 2018.

“Concerns over the global economic outlook continued to curb FDI as investor confidence remained muted.

Non-residents’ net investments in debt instruments declined by 25.2 percent to $4.7 billion. Likewise, net equity capital investments contracted by 60.4 percent to $845 million,” the BSP said. Julito G. Rada

B2

Business

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2020 extrastory2000@gmail.com

Market falls; PLDT, BDO decline T HE stock market fell Monday along with the rest of Asia, with investors worried about the impact of the China coronavirus outbreak on the global economy.

The Philippine Stock Exchange Index slumped 76.34 points, or 1 percent, to 7,430.86 on a value turnover of P8.7 billion. Losers beat gainers, 120 to 77, with 45 issues unchanged.

PLDT Inc., the biggest telecommunications firm, dropped 3.5 percent to P1,027, while GT Capital Holdings Inc. of the Ty Group declined 3.2 percent to P717.

BDO Unibank Inc., the largest lender in terms of assets, shed 3.5 percent to P150, while ISM Communications Corp. sank 13.2 percent to P2.11.

Markets across the Asia-Pacific were

also in the red on Monday amid the coronavirus outbreak.

The virus has killed more than 900 people, infected 40,000 across mainland China and spread to more than two dozen countries in what has been termed a global health emergency.

It has also jolted major supply chains for everything from food and household supplies to car and electronics parts.

Tokyo’s benchmark Nikkei 225 index closed 0.6 percent down, while Hong Kong pared some losses after tanking 1.1 percent at the open.

Elsewhere in afternoon trade, Sydney slipped 0.1 percent, Seoul was down 0.6 percent and Singapore was 0.7 percent lower.

Shanghai, however, recovered and was up 0.3 percent after opening down 0.5 percent.

Taipei, Jakarta, and Mumbai were also under water.

Investors around the world have been

watching with concern as China, the world’s second-largest economy, battles the novel coronavirus, which emerged at the end of last year in the central city of Wuhan.

The domestic impact was reflected in China’s inflation figures released Monday, which showed the highest rise in consumer prices in more than eight years, with food prices spiking more than 20 percent.

It has also disrupted the supply chains of major global firms such as Apple supplier Foxconn and auto giant Toyota.

Key production facilities across China have been temporarily closed, with authorities imposing lockdowns and quarantine measures.

The World Health Organization has said there are some signs that the epidemic is stabilizing in China, but the agency’s chief has cautioned that the number of cases overseas could be just

“the tip of the iceberg.”

“This coronavirus seems to be going on for longer, is infecting more people and the hit to growth will be longer,” Diana Mousina, an economist at AMP Capital Investors, told Bloomberg TV. “You won’t be able to recoup all of the negative impacts in the first quarter.”

Analysts have cautioned that the economic impact of the coronavirus outbreak in mainland China and beyond is yet to be fully understood.

“Let’s not try to sugar coat things here,” said Stephen Innes, chief market strategist at AxiCorp.

“With a chunk of China’s industrial complex shuttered beyond (Lunar New Year), we’re headed for one of the worst Q1 economic growth periods on record.”

The Asian falls at the start of the week came after a negative cue on Friday on Wall Street, where the three main indexes closed down. With AFP

Manila Standard BuSineSS daily StockS review Monday, FeBruary 10, 2020

VALUE

NET FOREIGN BUYING/(SELLING),

FINANCIALS 52.5 3,030 86 1,176,990 150 1,186,320 25.05 93,800 8.47 500 18 2,181,500 11.16 33,700 1.14 6,000 0.475 35,160,000 58.8 2,354,160 0.79 71,000 19.02 200 32.4 871,400 172 2,530 110.3 70 51.85 1,210 20.7 6,600 173.2 158,970 1,887 15 59.5 7,740 1.08 76,000

161,310.50 100,784,697 178,471,590 2,351,285 3,412 39,268,870 379,632 6,840 17,142,750 140,901,806.50 55,780 3,804 27,927,705 435,295 7,721 62,915.50 136,670 27,534,239 28,305 462,938.50 82,080

-1,050 32,202,650 -20,550,895 -22,495 -183887.9997 -123,100 -43,356,143 -27167699.9999 -4,518,967 -265,559.50 82,080

31.7 2.03 6.55 0.6 1.18 2.89 0.212 88.25 1.4 14.92 9.8 30.15 58.85 62.9 2.09 4.6 8.75 12 8.46 7.24 1.98 20.7 66.8 1.95 36.9 1.6 10.14 6.36 1.25 190 3.2 13.08 9.8 14.38 279 5.29 1.82 3.77 3.48 9.9 11.62 30.65 4.71 5.29 1.5 1.2 9.25 76.2 9.1 0.116 0.94 154.1 2.4 1.12 0.98

INDUSTRIAL 31.7 1,371,600 2.04 2,379,000 8.2 10,233,000 0.6 3,516,000 1.18 30,000 2.89 2,935,000 0.223 210,000 88.25 90 1.41 9,408,000 15.02 59,300 10.16 4,268,400 30.15 3,300 58.85 290 62.9 30 2.15 20,000 4.6 5,000 8.8 1,025,900 12.02 119,900 8.53 3,230,300 7.26 3,620,500 2.97 29,711,000 21 74,300 66.8 84,030 2.03 68,873,000 36.9 200 1.65 2,671,000 10.24 2,368,100 6.5 1,545,800 1.33 273,000 190 514,380 3.2 4,000 13.08 10,943,200 10 49,278,000 14.6 192,900 279 169,980 5.29 100 1.84 1,570,000 4 87,000 3.48 735,000 10 51,300 11.9 37,200 30.65 178,600 4.71 10,000 5.29 3,000 1.5 14,000 1.34 6,989,000 9.3 35,500 78 58,630 9.25 153,100 0.116 300,000 0.94 38,000 155 393,330 2.54 7,000 1.13 11,239,000 0.98 420,000

43,936,695 4,893,930 78,728,523 2,172,120 35,400 8,603,970 44,930 7,945.50 13,322,110 889,906 43,645,859 99,495 17,066.50 1,887 42,600 23,200 9,030,092 1,450,906 27,619,687 26,250,304 70,170,990 1,563,995 5,613,340.50 139,000,350 7,380 4,360,920 24,237,602 10,037,236 350,110 98,102,618 12,910 144,574,292 489,860,522 2,804,848 47,764,420 529 2,889,930 332,930 2,566,760 510,812 440,170 5,505,925 47,100 15,870 21,180 9,129,560 330,654 4,538,242.50 1,417,944 34,800 35,750 61,040,125 16,940 12,858,780 415,600

-11,286,895 268,889.9997) -5,818,589 6,200 302,110 -1,756,680 -111,474 -2,671,075 87,435 215,935 -1,139,798 -14,328,191 21,389,146 -141,200 -309,330 -86,816 2719409.9998 -49,360 -673,264 4,136,815 -34,503,064 -3,200 -47,301,098 -463,000 -1,705,982 208,040 -27,620 161,330 -11,700 -3,495,625 -10,051 1,608,300 -242,046 -946,345.50 4,575 -42,349,554 0 -

0.9 52.3 10.7 0.69 10.32 0.92 762 2.78 6.36 6.15 12.5 0.24 741 74 5.85 5.2 0.5 3.8 10.64 3.24 4.4 1.18 2.8 135.5 1,010 0.84 1.1 175 173.1 0.223 0.199

0.87 50.8 10.44 0.67 10 0.88 751.5 2.7 6.16 6.03 12.02 0.208 717 70.5 5.06 5.2 0.48 3.7 10.46 3.18 4.21 1.1 2.79 132.9 1,000 0.77 1.1 175 166 0.204 0.193

HOLDING FIRMS 0.88 6,710,000 52 1,074,460 10.5 3,764,200 0.67 48,000 10.18 13,200 0.91 365,000 761 191,230 2.7 4,148,000 6.28 3,697,500 6.06 3,207,500 12.4 28,500 0.221 2,340,000 717 203,830 71.5 1,349,020 5.84 6,500 5.2 5,600 0.5 92,000 3.75 7,365,000 10.5 1,568,000 3.23 14,829,000 4.4 5,000 1.17 226,000 2.8 3,000 134 249,140 1,000 715,495 0.81 425,000 1.1 4,000 175 60 172.5 5,780 0.205 530,000 0.199 620,000

5,926,210 55,558,992 39,725,898 32,600 132,606 330,960 144,850,980 11,230,150 23,290,711 19,448,342 355,322 516,950 147,336,660 96,513,205 35,774 29,120 44,970 27,546,700 16,533,896 47,642,200 21,300 257,690 8,390 33,357,775 716,521,720 336,480 4,400 10,500 969,472 113,820 121,770

8,800 -3,527,736.50 28114333.9998 30,669,495 -9,336,240 825,204 -6,648,759 2,542,245 -28,710,926 -52,240 -5,159,582 23,419,160 11,750 -5,946,674 509,176,395 -855,844 -

14.86 0.66 1.65 0.8 44.05 1.53 4.59 6.65 0.5 0.76 0.184 0.37 9.15 18.82 0.39 1.46 1.09 4.08 0.204 1.09 0.305 2.08 25.4 2.13 42.35 2.52 1.9 6.57

14.62 0.62 1.65 0.78 43.15 1.51 4.48 6.3 0.495 0.75 0.177 0.365 9.15 18 0.385 1.44 1.04 4.04 0.198 1.01 0.305 2.04 24.6 2.07 41 2.46 1.77 6.46

PROPERTY 14.86 985,300 0.63 528,000 1.65 32,000 0.79 106,000 43.7 29,150,000 1.52 220,000 4.5 399,000 6.5 3,300 0.495 6,087,000 0.76 11,000 0.184 490,000 0.365 1,990,000 9.15 10,300 18.48 1,158,600 0.39 160,000 1.45 5,922,000 1.05 308,000 4.04 11,346,000 0.2 5,260,000 1.03 2,591,000 0.305 240,000 2.06 265,000 24.65 2,152,600 2.13 316,000 42.3 32,591,800 2.52 82,000 1.79 8,571,000 6.5 281,800

14,494,552 333,970 52,800 83,840 1,275,460,090 334,760 1,807,330 21,171 3,013,775 8,320 86,880 727,350 94,245 21,430,638 62,350 8,581,420 322,880 45,913,980 1,051,210 2,670,760 73,200 543,450 53,501,240 659,810 1,363,164,245 205,130 15,590,950 1,830,337

656,244 195,927,790 82,290 27,000 10,950 9,150 558,910 -5,253,630 -25,363,270 -74,000 -29,079,580 894,247,370 -881,613

NAME

OPEN

HIGH

LOW

CLOSE

ASIA UNITED BANK PH ISLANDS BDO UNIBANK CHINABANK CITYSTATE BANK COL FINANCIAL EAST WEST BANK IREMIT MEDCO HLDG METROBANK NTL REINSURANCE PBCOM PHIL NATL BANK PHIL STOCK EXCH PHILTRUST PSBANK RCBC SECURITY BANK SUN LIFE UNION BANK VANTAGE

51.05 86.1 155 25.05 7.02 18.1 11.2 1.14 0.385 60.8 0.78 19.02 32 177 110.3 52 20.75 175.1 1,887 61.4 1.08

53.5 86.1 155 25.1 8.47 18.48 11.4 1.14 0.53 61.15 0.79 19.02 32.5 177 110.3 52 20.75 179 1,887 61.4 1.08

51.05 84.7 150 25 6.21 17.98 11.12 1.14 0.385 58.6 0.77 19.02 31.8 172 110.3 51.85 20.7 172.9 1,887 59.5 1.08

ABOITIZ POWER AC ENERGY AGRINURTURE ALLIANCE SELECT ALSONS CONS AXELUM BASIC ENERGY BOGO MEDELLIN CEMEX HLDG CENTURY FOOD CIRTEK HLDG CONCEPCION CONCRETE A CONCRETE B CROWN ASIA DEL MONTE DNL INDUS EAGLE CEMENT EEI CORP EMPERADOR EUROMED FIRST GEN FIRST PHIL HLDG FRUITAS HLDG GINEBRA GREENERGY HOLCIM INTEGRATED MICR IONICS JOLLIBEE MABUHAY VINYL MANILA WATER MAXS GROUP MEGAWIDE MERALCO PANASONIC PEPSI COLA PETROENERGY PETRON PHINMA PHX PETROLEUM PILIPINAS SHELL PRYCE CORP RFM CORP ROXAS HLDG SFA SEMICON SHAKEYS PIZZA SMC FOODANDBEV SPC POWER SWIFT FOODS TKC METALS UNIV ROBINA VICTORIAS VITARICH VULCAN INDL

33.3 2.15 6.76 0.61 1.18 3.02 0.213 88.3 1.47 15 10.44 30.15 58.85 62.9 2.09 4.7 9 12.36 8.6 7.26 1.98 21.2 66.85 1.96 36.9 1.68 10.14 6.7 1.3 193 3.22 13.26 10 14.6 288.8 5.29 1.82 3.87 3.54 9.97 11.62 31 4.71 5.29 1.52 1.2 9.46 77.9 9.1 0.116 0.97 160 2.4 1.14 0.99

33.3 2.15 8.4 0.65 1.18 3.08 0.225 88.3 1.48 15.08 10.64 30.15 58.85 62.9 2.15 4.7 9 12.36 8.6 7.3 2.97 21.3 67 2.07 36.9 1.68 10.4 6.7 1.34 194 3.27 13.5 10 14.6 288.8 5.29 1.86 4 3.54 10 11.9 31.5 4.71 5.29 1.52 1.37 9.46 78 9.3 0.116 0.97 160 2.54 1.16 1.01

ABACORE CAPITAL ABOITIZ EQUITY ALLIANCE GLOBAL ANGLO PHIL HLDG ASIABEST GROUP ATN HLDG A AYALA CORP AYALA LAND LOG COSCO CAPITAL DMCI HLDG FILINVEST DEV FORUM PACIFIC GT CAPITAL JG SUMMIT JOLLIVILLE HLDG KEPPEL HLDG A LODESTAR LOPEZ HLDG LT GROUP METRO PAC INV PACIFICA HLDG PRIME MEDIA REPUBLIC GLASS SAN MIGUEL CORP SM INVESTMENTS SOC RESOURCES SOLID GROUP SYNERGY GRID TOP FRONTIER WELLEX INDUS ZEUS HLDG

0.9 51.15 10.7 0.69 10.1 0.92 762 2.78 6.3 6.12 12.5 0.22 741 73.9 5.06 5.2 0.5 3.73 10.48 3.2 4.22 1.1 2.79 134.5 1,003 0.77 1.1 175 166 0.204 0.194

8990 HLDG A BROWN ARANETA PROP ARTHALAND CORP AYALA LAND BELLE CORP CEB LANDMASTERS CEBU HLDG CENTURY PROP CITY AND LAND CROWN EQUITIES CYBER BAY DM WENCESLAO DOUBLEDRAGON EMPIRE EAST FILINVEST LAND GLOBAL ESTATE MEGAWORLD MRC ALLIED PHIL INFRADEV PHIL REALTY PRIMEX CORP ROBINSONS LAND ROCKWELL SM PRIME HLDG STA LUCIA LAND SUNTRUST HOME VISTA LAND

14.72 0.63 1.65 0.78 43.35 1.53 4.59 6.65 0.495 0.76 0.177 0.365 9.15 18 0.39 1.44 1.04 4.08 0.199 1.09 0.305 2.08 25.25 2.08 42.2 2.46 1.84 6.54

VOLUME

NAME VISTAMALLS

OPEN

HIGH

LOW

CLOSE

VOLUME

VALUE

NET FOREIGN BUYING/(SELLING),

5.44

5.44

5.23

5.23

18,400

96,672

-

6,300 436,400 15,000 54,500 340,000 7,500,000 200 208,000 7,163,900 96,380,000 33,930 872,000 1,000 2,800 24,800 283,800 500 637,000 1,000 929,910 9,220,000 104,424,000 1,000 2,800 437,000 59,000 2,723,400 74,940,000 93,000 931,000 7,000 2,000 2,400 1,014,000 34,000 7,500 2,000 2,000 2,000 80 3,076,000 100,310 3,720,000 4,570,000 1,009,900 165,140 5,000 1,402,000 486,000 1,180,000 1,119,000 728,900

56,545 7,265,098 20,850 536,186 133,950 343,900 3,550 547,400 64,561,651 5,461,050 2,715,558.50 3,984,960 1,800 21,195 49,224,285 1,525,197 211,214 733,780 1,560 117,373,892 981,830 224,425,360 1,760 34,426 932,940 51,910 29,986,352 44,222,850 275,280 1,751,550 7,070 1,960 33,120 2,224,100 70,390 53,970 5,920 9,000 16,000 11,680 10,489,120 104,153,510 1,821,700 1,479,650 39,007,650 12,779,747 44,350 3,012,860 286,800 290,550 637,690 13,551,010

-25,185 -41,009 1,750 19,200,893 20,500 -628,746 54,360 7,403,630 -6,016,188 300.0001 2,217,830 -833,510 -171,180 230,180 11,680 30,420 -19,038,045 -269,500 -311754.9996 -12,053,188 1,283,510 1,920,626

SERVICES

2GO GROUP ABS CBN ACESITE HOTEL ALLHOME APC GROUP APOLLO GLOBAL ASIAN TERMINALS BERJAYA BLOOMBERRY BOULEVARD HLDG CEBU AIR CHELSEA DISCOVERY WORLD EASYCALL GLOBE TELECOM GMA NETWORK GOLDEN BRIA HARBOR STAR IMPERIAL INTL CONTAINER ISLAND INFO ISM COMM JACKSTONES LBC EXPRESS LEISURE AND RES LORENZO SHIPPNG MACROASIA MANILA BULLETIN MANILA JOCKEY METRO RETAIL METROALLIANCE A METROALLIANCE B MLA BRDCASTING NOW CORP PACIFIC ONLINE PAL HLDG PAXYS PH RESORTS GRP PHIL RACING PHIL SEVEN CORP PHILWEB PLDT PREMIUM LEISURE PRMIERE HORIZON PUREGOLD ROBINSONS RTL SBS PHIL CORP SSI GROUP STI HLDG TRANSPACIFIC BR WATERFRONT WILCON DEPOT

9 17.04 1.34 10.02 0.39 0.047 17.5 2.7 9.06 0.053 79.65 4.67 1.8 7.5 1,980 5.3 423.4 1.19 1.56 127.5 0.103 2.42 1.76 12.14 2.15 0.87 10.9 0.41 2.96 1.91 1.07 0.98 13.8 2.2 2.05 7.4 2.96 4.5 8 146 3.53 1,064 0.49 0.325 38.65 77.55 8.87 2.16 0.59 0.248 0.57 18.8

9 17.04 1.41 10.02 0.4 0.048 18 2.7 9.18 0.061 82.45 4.67 1.8 7.83 1,999 5.44 423.8 1.19 1.56 128 0.111 2.55 1.76 12.98 2.15 0.96 11.3 0.64 2.96 1.91 1.07 0.98 13.8 2.25 2.1 7.4 2.96 4.5 8 146 3.53 1,064 0.49 0.33 39.05 77.55 8.87 2.16 0.6 0.25 0.58 18.8

8.95 16.5 1.34 9.8 0.39 0.045 17.5 2.61 8.95 0.053 79.6 4.51 1.8 7.45 1,970 5.29 421.6 1.13 1.56 126 0.101 2.05 1.76 12.12 2.11 0.87 10.6 0.405 2.96 1.87 0.98 0.98 13.8 2.18 2.03 7.15 2.96 4.5 8 146 3.31 1,025 0.485 0.32 38.25 76.15 8.87 2.13 0.59 0.245 0.55 18.36

9 16.7 1.34 9.98 0.395 0.048 18 2.67 9 0.054 80 4.53 1.8 7.8 1,986 5.39 421.6 1.18 1.56 126 0.106 2.11 1.76 12.9 2.11 0.94 10.98 0.64 2.96 1.88 1.06 0.98 13.8 2.18 2.1 7.15 2.96 4.5 8 146 3.38 1,027 0.49 0.33 38.55 76.7 8.87 2.15 0.6 0.245 0.58 18.8

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

0.0015 7.5 1.01 2.38 10.88 2.99 6.45 1.43 0.207 0.094 0.0078 0.009 0.77 2.74 0.99 0.45 0.66 0.011 0.011 0.01 2.85 8.67 20.8 0.0052

0.0015 7.6 1.02 2.38 10.88 3.04 6.47 1.43 0.209 0.095 0.0078 0.009 0.78 2.74 1.03 0.465 0.66 0.011 0.011 0.011 2.85 8.67 20.8 0.0052

0.0014 7.3 1.01 2.38 9.5 2.98 6.45 1.28 0.198 0.094 0.0078 0.009 0.77 2.5 0.99 0.45 0.64 0.01 0.011 0.01 2.79 8.3 20.2 0.0052

MINING & OIL 0.0015 798,000,000 7.5 159,900 1.02 372,000 2.38 10,000 10.18 16,300 3 725,000 6.46 7,500 1.3 12,261,000 0.206 280,000 0.095 110,000 0.0078 3,000,000 0.009 2,000,000 0.78 6,000 2.55 12,681,000 1.02 18,000 0.465 60,000 0.66 213,000 0.01 5,200,000 0.011 21,500,000 0.01 27,600,000 2.83 107,000 8.5 209,600 20.3 376,400 0.0052 9,000,000

1,134,900 1,183,955 376,590 23,800 155,406 2,172,820 48,433 16,580,210 57,920 10,350 23,400 18,000 4,630 32,755,930 17,900 27,750 138,550 57,000 236,500 291,000 299,910 1,790,935 7,655,255 46,800

-35,000 -84,534 1,000 -8,210,930 -14,954,140 -2,030 -220,000 11,360 90,828 -7,163,355 -

ABS HLDG PDR AC PREF B1 AC PREF B2R ALCO PREF B DD PREF FGEN PREF G GLO PREF P GMA HLDG PDR GTCAP PREF A GTCAP PREF B MWIDE PREF PCOR PREF 3A PNX PREF 3A PNX PREF 3B PNX PREF 4 SMC FB PREF 2 SMC PREF 2C SMC PREF 2D SMC PREF 2E SMC PREF 2F SMC PREF 2H SMC PREF 2I

16 505 504.5 103.2 100.9 107.8 500 5.08 970 980 100 1,050 102.3 109 1,032 1,000 77.5 75.5 75.2 76.5 75.2 76

16 505 504.5 103.2 100.9 107.8 500 5.25 990 987 100.2 1,050 102.3 109 1,032 1,000 77.5 75.5 75.2 76.5 75.2 76

15.32 505 504.5 103.2 100.5 107.8 500 5.08 970 980 100 1,050 102.3 109 1,031 1,000 77.1 75.3 75 76.5 75.05 75.8

PREFERRED 15.4 591,000 505 500 504.5 100 103.2 280 100.9 65,150 107.8 1,080 500 20 5.2 513,000 990 1,670 986 5,420 100 1,130 1,050 16,900 102.3 500 109 3,240 1,031 500 1,000 850 77.1 2,630 75.5 2,440 75.05 64,000 76.5 8,600 75.05 6,670 75.8 960

9,100,876 252,500 50,450 28,896 6,559,235 116,424 10,000 2,654,240 1,653,100 5,311,730 113,122 17,745,000 51,150 353,160 515,540 850,000 202,801 183,822 4,804,450 657,900 500,613.50 72,920

-1,276,120 -2,409,500 50,100 51,150 26,160 -

LR WARRANT

1.08

1.1

1.08

WARRANTS 1.1 109,000

117,820

-

ITALPINAS KEPWEALTH XURPAS

3.55 9.9 0.82

3.55 9.98 0.82

3.32 9.69 0.79

3.49 9.88 0.8

1,666,690 1,235,922 670,180

349,000 -37,563 7,240

FIRST METRO ETF

113.3

113.3

111.8

999,375

138,724

25,618 9,965.60 47,975

-

MS USD DMPL A1 USD DMPL A2 USD TECH B2

10.1 10.26 0.95

Trading Summary

10.26 10.28 0.95

SHARES

FINANCIAL

43,412,114

INDUSTRIAL

239,579,373

HOLDING FIRMS

54,088,674

PROPERTY

112,855,797

SERVICES

327,814,817

MINING & OIL

894,225,481

GRAND TOTAL

1,673,438,456

10.1 10.26 0.95

SME

488,000 126,500 837,000

EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS 112 8,880 DDS 10.26 10.28 0.95

2,500 970 50,500

VALUE 1,753.87 (down) 37.22 536,229,341.46 FINANCIAL 9,195.80 (down) 195.88 INDUSTRIAL 2,853,069,396.283 7,109.51 (down) 36.50 HOLDING FIRMS 1,574,806,094.99 PROPERTY 4,042.32 (up) 5.52 1,485.27 (down) 17.60 SERVICES 2,883,778,169.22 7,131.52 (down) 251.95 MINING & OIL 759,469,081.795 7,430.86 (down) 76.34 PSEI 65,117,388.368 All Shares Index 4,383.21 (down) 39.43 8,677,047,515.72 Gainers: 77; Losers: 120; Unchanged: 45; Total: 242

Green bond issues in PH, Asia gaining acceptance

By Jenniffer B. Austria THE Securities and Exchange Commission said the green and sustainability debt markets in the Philippines and other countries in Asia continue to develop given the establishment of a clear set of guidelines.

SEC Commissioner Ephyro Luis Amatong said in a speech during the ASEAN+3 Bond Market Forum Meeting at the Asian Development Bank headquarters in Manila said issuances of bonds worth over $3.8 billion under the ASEAN Green and Sustainability Bond Standards in 2019 were a positive indication of the market’s development.

Last year’s issuances amounted six times more than $639 million issued in 2018, when the value increased by over 50 percent from 2017.

Sustainability bonds accounted for $1.4 billion or 36 percent of last year’s total, up 14 times from just $100 million in 2018.

“While ASEAN may still be a relatively small player in the global Green/ Sustainability debt market—with $330 billion raised in 2019—the rate of growth in ASEAN appears to show the necessary foundations for the development of such a Green/Sustainability debt market have indeed been laid, including the issuance of a clear set of guidelines for issuers to follow and which investors, both international and domestic, recognize as holistic and reliable,” Amatong said.

The Philippines recorded 15 issuances worth $3.04 billion from a range of private sector issuers, including renewable energy companies and banks taking advantage of both on and offshore markets.

Amatong noted that Philippine banks had notable success in green bond issuances.

Among them is Rizal Commercial Banking Corp., which issued two sustainability bonds and one green bond totaling $742 million, with $442 million denominated in peso.

Bank of the Philippine Islands also issued green bonds under the ASEAN Standards to raise $300 million and CHF100 million, with the latter transaction achieving a negative yield.

Most recently, state-owned Development Bank of the Philippines entered the domestic sustainability market, raising $352 million from the issuance of pesodenominated green bonds in late 2019.

Out of the 15 issuers, seven received some form of support from multilateral development finance institutions, namely the ADB and International Finance Corp.

MRC Allied bares venture into sand export business

By Alena Mae S. Flores MRC Allied Inc. is diversifying into the sand export business this year even as it is set to continue expanding its energy portfolio.

The company signed a sale and purchase agreement with Shining Star Ningbo Import & Export Co. LTD. (Shining Star) over sand supply.

“Under the agreement, MRC will be delivering Shining Star a natural river sand in bulk... The contract will be effective for five years. The company will have a gross revenue of $760,000.00 per shipment,” MRC Allied said earlier.

For its energy portfolio, the company said it wanted to maintain focus on solar rooftop projects, an increasingly growing industry. Many businesses now realize the benefits of solar energy and utilizing rooftops for such solar panels.

MRC Allied also plans to tap opportunities on utility scale project developments, with projects under its umbrella such as the 50-megawatt solar project of Sulu Electric Power and Light Philippines Inc., the 100-MW SPI Clark solar and the 60-MW Naga solar.

MRC Allied was originally Makilala Rubber Co. that was transformed into a property development company in 1995 through its former president, businessman Benjamin Bitanga.

It has further expanded into mining in 2010 and renewable energy in recent years after Bitanga stepped down as president and chief executive officer in 2017.

MRC Allied president and chief executive officer Augusto Cosio Jr. is now leading the company’s new management team. The company is pursuing a new vision and roadmap consistent with the focus to become a major RE player.

Cosio said in a statement all the projects in the pipeline would transform MRC Allied into a bigger, bolder and future-ready company with investments in renewable energy.

World

Manila

Standard

B3

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2020 CESAR BARRIOQUINTO, Editor mst.daydesk@gmail.com

TODAY

Relatives mourn 29 killed in mass shooting N AKHON RATCHASIMA―Grieving relatives of 29 people murdered by a rogue soldier in Thailand held Buddhist prayer ceremonies Monday, as questions multiply over how and why the unprecedented shooting spree happened.

Holding portraits of their relatives and dabbing away tears, the families of the victims arrived at a city morgue in Nakhon Ratchasima, better known as Korat, to carry home coffins bearing their dead.

The killer started his rampage on Saturday afternoon with weapons stolen from a barracks’ arsenal, where he gunned down Mehta Lertsiri, 22, who

was guarding the depot.

“I don’t know what to do next,” Mehta’s grief-stricken grandfather, Udom Prapotsang, said outside of the morgue waiting to claim his body.

“His four-year-old son keeps asking why he can’t call his dad. I will remember to tell him fond stories about his dad.”

Flowers and messages of condolences

mounted outside the bullet-riddled mall morning, ending a rampage that left where a terrifying siege unfolded Satur- 29 dead and scores more wounded.

A Buddhist monk in orange robes led a day night.

The killer, armed with automatic prayer ceremony on a grass verge outside weapons, held out for 17 hours as hun- the mall for Peeraphat Palasan, who was dreds of shoppers cowered in toilets, shot dead as the gunman sprayed bullets into traffic, killing the 25-year-old engistorerooms and under tables.

“R.I.P. Korat, we will not forget,” said neer and causing his car to crash. one of the condolence messages left in a growing tribute Republic of the Philippines outside the Terminal 21 mall REGIONAL TRIAL COURT Second Judicial Region in the northeastern city.

BRANCH 33 Ballesteros, Cagayan The gunman―SergeantRONALYN A. ARELLANO, CIV. CASE NO. 33-634-2019 Major Jakrapanth ThomPetitioner, For: ma―was shot dead by a -versusDECLARATION OF NULLITY OF BIGAMOUS MARRIAGE” commando unit Sunday SEMIE Q. AGUILO

His father, Witoon, was among a dozen mourners crying, kneeling, hands clasped―some holding incense sticks―in prayer.

“My son had just finished work and came here to go shopping,” Witoon said. “I never thought I would lose him so soon.” AFP

Respondent. x-------------------------------------------x

PETITION PETITIONER, assisted by the Public Attorney’s Office, by the undersigned counsel, and unto the Honorable Court, respectfully allege the following: PARTIES 1.

Petitioner is a Filipino Citizen, of legal age and a permanent resident of Sitio Muru, Barangay Siguiran, Abulug, Cagayan, Philippines, where she may be served with notices and other court processes. A copy of the Petitioner’s voter’s ID and Certificate of Indigency issued by Barangay Siguiran, Abulug, Cagayan are herein attached as Annexes A and B respectively;

2.

Respondent is also of legal age, Filipino citizen and whose whereabouts is currently unknown as of the moment, however his last known address isBlock 11, Kabisig Floodway, Cainta, Rizal;

3.

Petitioner and Respondent met sometime in 2001 in Caloocan, Metro Manila where they were then working;

4.

Upon meeting the Petitioner, Respondent immediately commenced courting the former and pursued her relentlessly;

5.

After months of courtship, Petitioner gave in to the sweet-talks of the Respondent and eventually gave her elusive “yes” unto the latter, thus starting a romantic relationship;

6.

This relationship grew deeper and soon they felt that they are ready to put their relationship to a different level, thus they started seriously considering to enter into marriage;

7.

Thus, after they secured all the necessary documents, Petitioner and Respondent got married on February 26, 2002 in a civil wedding officiated by the Mayor of Cainta, Rizal. A copy of their marriage certificate is herein attached as Annex C;

8.

The Parties then started living peacefully as husband and wife in Caloocan and soon thereafter, Petitioner got pregnant with their child who was born on December 7, 2002. A copy of the Certificate of Live Birth of the Parties’ child is herein attached as Annex D;

9.

Unfortunately, around this time, life happened, when a certain “Analie” showed up in their doorstep and identified herself as the first wife of the Respondent;

10.

Confused and hurt of the sudden turn of events, Petitioner confronted the Respondent and asked him regarding the claim of “Analie” and it was only then that Respondent confessed that he was indeed previously married to Analie in 1994 and that they just parted ways without their marriage being annulled. A copy of a Certification issued by the Office of the Civil Registrar General is herein attached as Annex E;

11.

Since then, Petitioner and Respondent begun having marital problems which they tried to patch up for the sake of their daughter. However things went irreconcilably sour, thus Petitioner decided to take their daughter and bring her home in Abulug, Cagayan in the early part of 2003;

12.

Thereafter, Petitioner immersed herself in various works so as to be able to provide the needs of her daughter, even taking up overseas job and sacrificed being with her daughter;

13.

The Respondent on the other hand never bothered to reach out to them nor send support to their daughter, completely disappearing from the Petitioner’s life;

14.

Hence, Petitioner is now filing this instant Petition to once and for all be freed from her bigamous marriage with the Respondent.

FACTUAL ALLEGATIONS

PREVENTIVE MEASURE. Tourists wearing face masks visit Gyeongbokgung palace in Seoul on February 10, 2020, as a preventive measure after a coronavirus outbreak that began in the Chinese city of Wuhan. AFP

IN BRIEF Storm ‘Ciara’ lashes Europe LONDON―Hundreds of flights and train services were canceled across northwest Europe on Monday as Storm “Ciara” swept in packing powerful winds after lashing Britain and Ireland, where tens of thousands of homes were left without power.

Swathes of northern France were put on orange alert and 130,000 homes had electricity cut off amid fears of coastal storm surges.

“Ciara” was heading south through France on Monday with the electricity network company Enedis reporting outages from Brittany in the west to the center and east.

Meteo-France noted wind speeds of 130 kilometers per hour along the coast and predicted highs of 200 kph.

Trees and electricity poles were blown over and roofs ripped off homes across 31 departments, fire and rescue services said.

Britain, which bore the brunt of the storm Sunday with widespread flooding across the north, remained on alert with the Meteorological Office warning of strong winds, heavy rain and snow.

“While Storm “Ciara” is clearing away, that doesn’t mean we’re entering a quieter period of weather,” Met Office meteorologist Alex Burkill said.

“It’s going to stay very unsettled,” he said, warning “blizzards aren’t out of the question.” AFP

Rain to end Australia bushfires SYDNEY―Australia’s months-long bushfires crisis will likely be over within days, officials said Monday as heavy rainfall extinguished several massive blazes and was forecast to douse dozens more as downpours swept south.

Days of torrential rains have caused flash flooding in New South Wales and Queensland, dampening once-raging fires that volunteers had battled in vain for months.

Sydney experienced its wettest period in 20 years amid several days of heavy rainfall that led to chaotic scenes across the city.

The Bureau of Meteorology said 15.42 inches of rain fell in Sydney over the past four days―the highest total in such a period since 414.2mm were recorded in February 1990.

Several major bushfires have been extinguished by the deluge, including a “mega-blaze” that burned through 500,000 hectares north of Sydney and a similarsized fire to the city’s south, bringing relief to residents and firefighters.

New South Wales Rural Fire Service spokesman James Morris said about 30 fires were still burning Monday, but it was expected they would soon be extinguished as the rain moves south in the coming days.

“By the end of the week it’s likely they will be out,” he told AFP. Drought-stricken areas across the country’s east also received welcome downpours but more sustained and widespread rainfall will be needed to offset a yearslong dry spell. AFP

Spacecraft on a mission to discover sun’s secrets MIAMI―The US-European Solar Orbiter probe launched Sunday night from Florida on a voyage to deepen our understanding of the Sun and how it shapes the space weather that impacts technology back on Earth.

The mission, a collaboration between ESA (the European Space Agency) and NASA, successfully blasted off from the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral at 11:03pm (0403 GMT Monday) and could last up to nine years or more.

At 12:24am Monday (0524 GMT) the European Space Operations Centre in Darmstadt, Germany, received a signal from the spacecraft indicating that its solar panels had successfully deployed.

Space Orbiter is expected to provide unprecedented insights into the Sun’s atmosphere, its winds and its magnetic fields, including how it shapes the heliosphere, the vast swath of space that encompasses our system.

By journeying out of the ecliptic plane-the belt

of space roughly aligned with the Sun’s equator, through which the planets orbit―it will acquire the first-ever images of our star’s uncharted polar regions.

Drawing on gravity assists from Earth and Venus, Solar Orbiter will slingshot itself into a bird’s eye view of the Sun’s poles, reaching its primary science orbit in two years’ time.

“I think it was picture perfect, suddenly you really feel like you’re connected to the entire solar system,” said Daniel Muller, ESA project scientist, shortly after the launch.

“You’re here on Earth and you’re launching something that will go close to the Sun.” “We have one common goal and that is to get the good science out of this mission. I think we’re going to succeed,” added Holly Gilbert, director of NASA’s heliophysics science division.

Ten state-of-the-art instruments on board will record myriad observations to help scientists unlock clues about what drives solar winds and flares. AFP

PRAYER WHEREFORE, all the foregoing considered, it is respectfully prayed unto the Honorable Court to render judgment declaring the marriage between the Petitioner and the Respondent as null and void from the beginning for being a Bigamous Marriage.

Other reliefs just and equitable under the premises are likewise prayed for.

April 17, 2019. Ballesteros, Cagayan, Philippines PUBLIC ATTORNEY’S OFFICE Ballesteros District Office By: ALDWIN KENNETH F. BALDOVINO Counsel for the Petitioner Public Attorney II MCLE Compliance No.VI-0011901 CC: Office of the Solicitor General 134 Amorsolo Street, Legazpi Village, Makati City VERIFICATION AND CERTIFICATION AGAINST FORUM SHOPPING I, RONALYN A. ARELLANO, of legal age, Filipino and a resident of Sitio Muru, Brgy. Siguiran, Abulug, Cagayan, Philippines, after having been duly sworn to in accordance with law, do hereby depose and say: 1.

2.

3.

That I am the Petitioner in thisPetitioner, That I caused the preparation of the foregoing Petition, That the allegations contained therein are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and based on authentic documents: Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRlAL COURT Second Judicial Region Branch 33 Ballesteros, Cagayan

I FURTHER CERTIFY: 4.

5.

6.

That I have not therefore commenced any action or proceeding involving the same issue in the Supreme Court, the Court of Appeals or any tribunal or agency; That to the best of my own knowledge, no action or proceeding is pending before the Supreme Court, the Court of Appeals or different division thereof, or any tribunal or agency; That if I should learn thereafter, that there has been filed or pending before the Supreme Court, the Court of Appeals or different division thereof, or any tribunal or agency, I will undertake to completely inform the aforesaid courts and such other tribunal or agency of that fact within five (5) days therefrom.

RONALYN A. ARELLANO, CIV. CASE NO. 33-634-2019 Petitioner, For: -versusDECLARATION OF NULLITY OF BIGAMOUS MARRIAGE” SEMIE Q. AGUILO Respondent. x-------------------------------------------x ORDER

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, wehave hereunto set our hand this17TH day of April, 2019 in Ballesteros, Cagayan.

RONALYN A. ARELLANO Affiant Voter’s ID No.-0752-0185D-IFMA188320000-6 SUBSCRIBED AND SWORN to before me, on the place and date above-written.

ALDWIN KENNETH F. BALDOVINO PUBLIC ATTORNEY II PURSUANT TO R.A. 9406

Before this Court is a Motion for Leave to Serve Summons by Publication filed by the petitioner, through counsel, to the effect that as per Officer`s Return date October 2, 2019, the Process server tried to personally serve Summons upon the person of the respondent at his given address, however, it was discovered the the respondent is not known and cannot be located therein, hence, the petitioner respectfully prayed the the summons be served by publication.

Finding the Motion to be impressed with merit, the motion hereby GRANTED. Let therefore Summons be issued to be served together with this Order upon the respondent through publication once a week for two (2) consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation in the Philippines.

SO ORDERED.

DOC. NO.1105 PAGE NO.52 BOOK NO.1 SERIES OF 2019

Ballesteros, Cagayan, November 14, 2019.

FRANCISCO S. DONATO Executive Judge

Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRlAL COURT Second Judicial Region Branch 33 Ballesteros, Cagayan RONALYN A. ARELLANO, CIV. CASE NO. 33-634-2019 Petitioner, For: -versusDECLARATION OF NULLITY OF BIGAMOUS MARRIAGE” SEMIE Q. AGUILO Respondent. x-------------------------------------------x SUMMONS A VERIFIED “Petition for “ Declaration of Nullity of Bigamous Marriage” having been filed by the petitioner, RONALYN A. ARELLANO, on the ground of Bigamous Marriage pursuant to Article 35, par. 4 of the Family Code, as amended praying that your marriage to her celebrated on February 26, 2002, be declared NULL and VOID ab initio. Copy of the Petition may be obtained from this Court) YOU. SEMIE Q. AGUILO, is hereby directed to file your Answer and/or responsive pleading within a period of THIRTY (30) days from the last date of publication hereof, otherwise, the petitioner will take judgment against you and may be granted by this Court the reliefs prayed for in her petition.

WITNESS THE HON. FRANCISCO S. DONATO, Executive Judge of this Court this 14th day of November 2019 in Ballesteros, Cagayan.

OSCAR PARTY. British-US actress Lucy Boynton attends the 2020 Vanity Fair Oscar Party following the 92nd Oscars at The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills on February 9, 2020. AFP

ATTY. LEMWELL L. ALAPIT Clerk of Court VI MS-Feb. 4 & 11, 2020

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Jimbo Owen Gulle, Editor lgu@manilastandard.net editor.lgustandard@gmail.com

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Manila

LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS

TUESDAY FEBRUARY 11, 2020

SP backs Bataan housing tack

By Butch Gunio

B

ALANGA CITY, Bataan― Vice Governor Cris Garcia has reiterated the support of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan to the province’s housing program being pushed by Gov. Abet Garcia.

“We are one in our advocacy for the province in line with our vision of highest Human Development Index [HDI] in the country,” the vice governor said in her message during the groundbreaking of the NHA Balanga City low-rise housing project in upland Brgy. Tenejero here.

Access to decent housing is an HDI indicator, the vice governor noted.

“The SP will always support Bataeno families,” she also said.

“Your new place is flood-free, and there are many plants [to prevent flooding],” Garcia also told the recipients attending the groundbreaking.

Garcia led Bataan officials in the groundbreaking activity along with Rep. Joet Garcia, Mayor Francis Garcia, NHA Regional manager Araceli Natino, and other officials.

SGLG INCENTIVE. Following the conferment of the 2019 Seal of Good Local Governance, the local government of Muntinlupa receives the Performance Challenge Fund incentive from the Department of the Interior and Local Government. Photo shows DILG-NCR director Maria Lourdes Agustin (sixth from left) turning over the P3.5-million PCF check to Mayor Jaime Fresnedi (seventh from left) on Monday, which the mayor said shall be utilized to finance local development projects and capacity development assistance from the DILG.

Calabarzon cop chief warns vs. illegal gambling

By Roy Tomandao CALAMBA, Laguna—The regional director of the CALABARZON police on Monday warned his men of the Philippine National Police’s one-strike policy on illegal gambling and vowed to dismiss any municipal chief of police involved in the illicit activity.

Police Brig. Gen. Vicente Danao said that in line with PNP chief Gen. Archie

Gamboa’s directive on a “no-take” policy, “I am publicly declaring and strictly ordering our personnel to continue the war against all forms of illegal gambling.”

“All Chiefs of Police who are caught with illegal gambling operations in their Areas of Responsibility [AOR] will be immediately dismissed,” Danao added in a statement at Camp Vicente Lim here.

Manila

18. The load of the Maa substation was temporarily shifted to adjacent substations to maintain the supply to existing customers. On 5 November 2019 an old 15 MVA power transformer is installed in and a 33MVA mobile substation was placed besides the Maa Substation. The mobile substation was energized on 20 December 2019 to temporarily accommodate the load of the Maa Substation.

TODAY

ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION San Miguel Avenue, Pasig City

IN THE MATTER OF THE APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL OF EMERGENCY CAPITAL EXPENDITURE PROJECT (MAA SUBSTATION TRANSFORMER REPLACEMENT AND OTHER RELATED ACTIVITIES)

19. On the other hand, the 15 MVA power transformer is being prepared and tested to temporarily take part of the load of the Maa Substation. Once the 15 MVA power transformer is ready to operate, it will be energized and will take on part of the load of the Maa Substation. This temporary set-up will provide power through the Maa substation until the arrival of a new 33 MVA power transformer, which is expected to be installed and energized within 2020.

ERC CASE NO. 2020-001 RC DAVAO LIGHT AND POWER COMPANY, INC., Applicant. x ---------------------------------------------------------- x

20. Considering the foregoing circumstances, the replacement of the transformer is an emergency CAPEX project that must be immediately implemented to ensure the safe, reliable, secure, and efficient operation of the power system and prevent unserved customers. It is critical that the replacement of the transformer be implemented immediately to prevent unserved customers.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO ALL INTERESTED PARTIES:

21. The total estimated cost of Davao Light’s emergency CAPEX project is PhP 43,649,783.53, which includes cost for the purchase of a new 33 MVA power transformer and associated equipment. The cost of the project shall be financed using internally generated funds.

Notice is hereby given that on 03 January 2020, Davao Light and Power Company, Inc. (DLPC) filed an Application dated 23 December 2019, seeking the approval of its emergency capital expenditure project for the Maa Substation Transformer replacement and other related activities.

22. The implementation of this emergency CAPEX project will not have a direct impact on the current rates of Davao Light until this project is approved by the Honorable Commission as part of Davao Light’s Regulatory Asset Base (RAB) in the next PBR regulatory period.

The pertinent portions of the said Application are hereunder quoted as follows: 1. Davao Light is a corporation duly organized and existing under and by virtue of the laws of the Republic of the Philippines, with office address at C. Bangoy Sr. St., Davao City. It is the grantee of a legislative franchise under Republic Act No. 89601 to construct, operate and maintain an electric light, heat and power system in the Cities of Davao and Panabo, and in the Municipalities of Carmen, Sto. Tomas and Braulio Dujali, Province of Davao del Norte. Davao Light may be served with orders and other processes of the Honorable Commission through its undersigned counsel at the address indicated below.

3. To pursue its mandate under its franchise and the EPIRA, it is necessary for Davao Light to continuously invest in the improvement of its system and services to better serve its customers.

8. In 20 March 2015, following manufacturer’s local distributor’s advice, the transformer was shipped to the manufacturer for further investigation and testing in view of a report sent by Applicant to the manufacturer in September 2014.

9. The transformer was repaired by the manufacturer and then shipped back to the Applicant in October 2015. It was then placed in the Maa Substation in November 2015.

11. In a letter dated 16 April 2016, the manufacturer formally assured Applicant that the transformer was in good condition and may operate.

12. The transformer was energized in the Maa Substation on 14 September 2016.

13. The transformer was subjected to several Dissolved Gas Analysis (“DGA”) tests. During the tests conducted in the second quarter of 2019, the transformer’s DGA test revealed that there were problems with its internal heating. Upon communication with the manufacturer, Applicant was advised by manufacturer through its local distributor to observe the condition of the transformer after conducting an oil filtering process with vacuum and heating oil filtering equipment.

14. On 29 and 30 September 2019, the transformer was de-energized and subjected to testing and diagnostics. The electrical tests results are within published limits. On the other hand, the result of the Frequency Response of Stray Losses (“FRSL”) reading taken together with the DGA results may be an indication of short circuit fault between parallel strands. Nonetheless, the transformer was re-energized as the tests results overall are within limits.

15. On 12 October 2019, the transformer was again de-energized for degassing then DGA trending. After 36 hours of oil filtration of the unwanted combustible gasses, the DGA levels improved. The transformer was then re-energized.

PUBLIC PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP SELECTION COMMITTEE NOTICE OF INVITATION FOR COMPARATIVE PROPOSALS FOR NO CONTACT APPREHENSION PROGRAM (NCAP) Public notice is hereby given that the City Government of Cauayan, Isabela (City) received and accepted the Unsolicited Proposal of Qpax Traffic Systems, Inc., the Original Proponent, for the implementation of a No Contact Apprehension Program.

After completing detailed negotiations, the City is now ready to accept comparative proposals from developers.

The project is being undertaken by the City under a Joint-Venture (JV) arrangement which is a PPP modality under section 10(14) of City Ordinance No. 2018-164, otherwise known as the “City Code Pursuing a Public-Private Partnership for the People Initiative for local governments LGU P4) approach towards development, providing for the procedure for selecting the private sector proponent, adopting, a contract management framework and providing appropriations and for other purposes.

Interested developers must submit their Notarized Expression of Interest (NEOI) to submit comparative proposals on or before March 3, 2020 at the City Legal Office, Cauayan City Hall, 107 Rizal Avenue, District 3, Cauayan City, Isabela.

The notarized expression of interest with supporting documents must contain the following statements: a. The developer is a Filipino citizen or partnership wholly owned by Filipino Citizens or a Filipino corporation with at least 60% of its capital owned by Filipino citizens. b. The developer is financially and technically capable to undertake the project and is capable to post the required proposal or security bond.

Distribution Development Plan Emergency Capital Expenditure Proiect

“B”

Decommissioning Report

“C”

Emergency CAPEX - Budget

“D”

Emergency CAPEX - Financials

e. The developer must be able to comply to the terms and conditions stated in the Terms of Reference and Joint Venture Agreement.

“E”

Emergency CAPEX - Gantt Chart

f.

“F”

Emergencv CAPEX - Single Line Diagram

c.

d. The developer shall undertake to adhere to all applicable City Ordinance, laws and policies and qualification criteria set by the City.

The following schedule of activities shall be strictly observed: Activity

Date

Publication of Notice of Invitation for Comparative proposals in a newspaper of general circulation in the Philippines, Philgeps and City Website

February 11, 18 and 25, 2020

2

Posting by the private sector proponent or original proponent of a security bond equivalent to 2% of the development cost of the project- either in cash or surety

February 11, 2020

3

Posting of Notice of Invitation at the bulletin boards of the Cauayan City Hall, Provincial Capitol and City Public Market

February 11, 2020

4

Submission of Notarized Expression of Interest at the City Legal Office, Cauayan City Hall, 107 Rizal Avenue, District 3, Cauayan City, Isabela and release of Tender Documents upon payment of Php100,000 non-refundable fee in cash, manager’s check or bank check

On or before March 3, 2020

1) The petitioner’s name and address;

5

Eligibility Check to short list qualified Private Sector Propone5nt/s

March 10, 2020

2) The nature of petitioner’s interest in the subject matter of the proceeding and the way and manner in which such interest is affected by the issues involved in the proceeding; and

6

Sending notice of eligibility or non-eligibility to Private Sector Proponent

March 13, 2020

7

Pre-selection conference conducted by the PPP Selection Committee at the City Conference Room, Cauayan City Hall, 107 Rizal Avenue, District 3, Cauayan City, Isabela

March 20, 2020, 9 o’clock in the morning, at the Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) Office

8

Submission of Comparative Proposals at the City Legal, Cauayan City Hall,107 Rizal Avenue, District 3, Cauayan City, Isabela

April 2, 2020, 9 o’clock in the morning, at the Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) Office

9

Opening and evaluation of Comparative Proposals at the City Legal office, Cauayan City Hall, 107 Rizal Avenue, District 3, Cauayan City, Isabela

April 2, 2020, 10 o’clock in the morning, at the Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) Office

10

Exercise by the Original Proponent of the right to match the superior or more advantageous comparative proposal

Not later than April 7, 2020

11

Issuance of Notice of Award

All persons who have an interest in the subject matter of the instant case may become a party by filing with the Commission a verified Petition to Intervene at least five (5) days prior to the initial hearing and subject to the requirements under Rule 9 of the 2006 ERC Rules of Practice and Procedure, indicating therein the docket number and title of the case and stating the following:

3) A statement of the relief desired.

All other persons who may want their views known to the Commission with respect to the subject matter of the case may file their Opposition or Comment thereon at any stage of the proceeding before Applicant rest its case, subject to the requirements under Rule 9 of the 2006 ERC Rules of Practice and Procedure. No particular form of Opposition or Comment is required, but the document, letter, or writing should contain the following: 1) The name and address of such person; 2) A concise statement of the Opposition or Comment; and 3) The grounds relied upon.

All such persons who wish to have a copy of the Application may request from Applicant that they be furnished with the same prior to the date of the initial hearing.

Applicant is hereby directed to furnish all those making such request with copies of the Application and its attachments, subject to the reimbursement of reasonable photocopying costs. Any such person may likewise examine the Application and other pertinent records filed with the Commission during the standard office hours.

WITNESS, the Honorable Chairperson and CEO AGNES VST DEVANADERA, and the Honorable Commissioners ALEXIS M. LUMBATAN, CATHERINE P. MACEDA, and PAUL CHRISTIAN M. CERVANTES,, Energy Regulatory Commission, this 21st day of January 2020 in Pasig City.

JOSEFINA PATRICIA A. MAGPALE-ASIRIT Oversight Commissioner for Legal

2 3 4

The developer shall not in any manner prevent the Award of the project and the carrying out of the project.

Those who filed their Notarized Expression of Interest (NEOI) on or before March 3, 2020 may obtain from the City Legal Office, Cauayan City Hall, 107 Rizal Avenue, District 3, Cauayan City, Isabela a complete set of Tender Documents upon payment of non-refundable fee of PhP100,000. Only those who filed their NEOI on time and purchased copies of the Tender Documents shall be allowed to participate in this competitive selection procedure or open bidding.

Other relief just and equitable under the premises are likewise prayed for.

1

The developer and/or business partner has undertaken and completed a project similar or related to the subject JV activity within the relevant period.

1

The Commission has set the Application for determination of compliance with the jurisdictional requirements, expository presentation, Pre-trial Conference, and presentation of evidence on 05 March 2020 (Thursday) at two o’clock in the afternoon (2:00 P.M.) at the ERC-Mindanao Area Operations Division (ERC-MAOD), Mezzanine Floor, Mintrade Building, Monteverde Avenue cor. Sales Street, Davao City.

16. However, after two (2) weeks of service, the presence of a higher Total Dissolved Combustible Gas (“TDCG”) than that prior to the filtration process became more alarming. TDCG was now in Condition 4, which required the de-energization of the transformer as soon as possible.

17. Considering the results of the testing and the close monitoring of the transformer, the transformer is no longer reliable and safe. Thus, Applicant was constrained to de-energize and permanently shut-down the transformer. The latest test results of the Dissolve Gasses are in the Decommissioning Report attached as Annex “B” of the Application.

CITY OF CAUAYAN

“A”

WHEREFORE, it is respectfully prayed that the Honorable Commission APPROVE the proposed emergency Capital Expenditure Project program of Davao Light and Power Company, Inc. for the replacement of the transformer of the Maa Substation.

10. During the commissioning and testing in February 2016, test results on the transformer were satisfactory, although the result on the Insulation Power Factor (“IPF”) showed that it was slightly higher for a brand unit but within tolerable limits for an in-service power transformer.

Republic of the Philippines Province of Isabela

Document

PRAYER

5. Pursuant to the said Resolution, emergency CAPEX projects are those that require immediate implementation during an event other than those enumerated and covered in the definition of a force majeure or fortuitous event, in order to maintain safe, reliable, secure, and efficient operation of the power system. 4

7. The transformer of the Maa substation was manufactured in January 2014. It was initially installed and energized at the Pampanga substation in May 2014.

TODAY

Annex

24. The benefits arising from this emergency CAPEX project will ultimately redound to the end-consumers of Davao Light because the project will ensure continuous, reliable and efficient power supply to all endconsumers.

4. As such, Davao Light, in accordance-with Section 3.4 of ERC Resolution No. 26, Series of 2009,3 hereby applies for approval from the Honorable Commission of the replacement of its Maa Substation power transformer, with other related activities, as an emergency Capital Expenditure (“CAPEX”) project.

6. The proposed emergency CAPEX project will address the power transformer problem at Maa substation, which will result to unserved customers, if not resolved immediately.

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23. The justification, technical analysis, economic analysis, and alternatives considered, as applicable, of the emergency CAPEX project are discussed in detail the following annexes, in support of the Application for the approval of this emergency CAPEX project, and in compliance with the filing requirements of the Honorable Commission:

2. Republic Act No. 9136, or the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001 (“EPlRA”), under Section 23 thereof, obligates a distribution utility, such as Davao Light, to provide distribution services and connections to its system for any end-user within its franchise area, consistent with the distribution code. Further, distribution utilities share in the objective of the EPlRA to ensure the quality, reliability, security and affordability of the supply of electric power. 2

THREE hundred housing units and a multi-purpose tribal center were recently turned over to residents of indigenous peoples communities in Brgy. Gupitan, Kapalong, Davao Del Norte through the national government’s PAyapa at MAsaganang PamayaNAn (PAMANA) program.

With a total cost of P53 million, the PAMANA-funded infrastructure projects were built through the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s Modified Shelter Assistance Program, and will benefit the people of Sitio Kapatagan and Sitio Kimataan in this municipality known for its thriving agriculture sector.

“The projects we have turned over now aim to provide decent housing to our Lumad brothers and sisters in Kapalong,” Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Processdirector Andres S. Aguinaldo Jr. said.

He underscored the impact of the housing project on beneficiary communities during the turn-over ceremony last Feb. 4.

“We know how valuable a house is to a Filipino family. Having a house you can call your own will not only give a greater sense of security, but more importantly, dignity to those who own them,” said Aguinaldo Together with local officials, the OPAPP also witnessed the groundbreaking of the second phase of the shelter program worth more than P17 million.

PAMANA is among the national government’s multi-agency convergence programs which provides much-needed development assistance to remote, conflictaffected communities across the country.

Three station commanders had already been relieved from duty over reports illegal gambling continued nonstop in their areas.

Danao noted that he had ordered the relief of San Pablo City Police Station Chief Lt. Col. Eliseo V. Bernales; San Juan, Batangas Station Chief Lt. Col. Rosell del Mundo Encarnacion; and Lian, Batangas Station Chief Maj. Domingo D. Ballesteros.

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Standard Republic of the Philippines

OPAPP, DSWD turn over 300 houses to IPs in Davao Norte

Entitled “An Act Further Extending the Term of the Franchise Granted to Davao Light and Power Company, Inc. to Construct, Operate and Maintain an Electric Light, Heat and Power System in Davao City and the Municipalities of Carmen, Panabo, Dujali, and Santo Tomas, Province of Davao del Norte, for a Period of Twenty-Five (25) Years and for Other Purposes”; Section 2(b) ofthe EPlRA; Otherwise known as the Resolution Amending the Rules for Approval of Regulated Entities’ Capital Expenditure Projects; The Resolution defines force majeure as “a typhoon, storm, tropical depression, flood, drought, volcanic eruption, earthquake, tidal wave, or landslide”, while a fortuitous event is defined as “an act of public enemy, war (declared or undeclared), sabotage, blockade, revolution, riot, insurrection, civil commotion or any violent or threatening actions.” (Section 1.3, Resolution No. 26, Series of 2009); (MS-FEB. 11 & 18, 2020

If no NEOI or comparative proposal is submitted, the project shall be awarded to the Original Proponent. Further, pursuant to the above-mentioned ordinance, the Original Proponent shall be given the right to match the superior offer or more advantageous offer to the City.

Furthermore, the PPP-Selection Committee reserves the right to (1) reject any and all applications for qualification and eligibility found not in conformity with aforesaid Ordinance or with the requirements above-mentioned without incurring any liability to the affected Private-Sector Proponent; (2) waive any minor defect therein; and (3) accept the offer it deems most advantageous to the City Government.

CONTACT INFORMATION: PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP SELECTION COMMITTEE City Conference Room, Third Floor, City Hall NO. 107 Rizal Avenue, District 3, Cauayan City, Isabela Telephone Nos. (078) 652-2205/652-2005

(MS-FEB. 11 , 19 & 26, 2020

JOSE L. ABAD Chairperson

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‘‘

[Heart disease] is no longer a rare occurrence or a surprise.”

Life

Bernadette Lunas, Issue Editor manilastandardlife@gmail.com @manilastandardlife @MStandardLIFE

HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2020

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HEART TO HEART:

Cardiovascular disease affects the youth, too

Dr. Saturnino P. Javier, cardiologist at Makati Medical Center (Photo from MMC)

By Steph Llarena

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ARDIOVASCULAR diseases are common among older people. A 2013 data from the American Heart Association showed of the 83.6 million adults with one or more types of CVD, 42.2 million are 60 years old and above. The National Institute on Aging says people aged 65 and above are “much more likely than younger people” to suffer heart disease.

But you see, cardiovascular disease knows no age.

The death of Taiwanese-Canadian model and actor Godfrey Gao shocked many. According to reports, Gao collapsed due to a heart attack while competing in the reality show Chase Me. Attempts to revive him were unsuccessful.

He was 35—at the prime of his life.

Dr. Saturnino P. Javier, section chief of cardiology at Makati Medical Center, says cardiovascular disease now affects people the same age as Gao, or younger. “[It] is no longer a rare occurrence or a surprise.”

The heart expert says the common causes of cardiovascular disease are genetics, family history, and undiagnosed or untreated congenital abnormalities. Another cause is the person’s lifestyle choices.

“A preference for fast food, processed food, and alcohol coupled with smoking and a sedentary lifestyle of sitting all

BAD HABITS TO BREAK. A medical expert says preference for fast food, processed food, and alcohol, coupled with smoking and a sedentary lifestyle—which is common among many in their 20s and 30s—may result in conditions that are risk factors of cardiovascular disease. day with gadgets lead to obesity, which, in turn trigger the onset of diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure—risk factors of cardiovascular disease,” Dr. Javier says, adding, “The role of drugs, alcohol, and stressful situations cannot be underestimated.”

Being at a young age, many feel invincible that they tend to disregard symptoms, especially subtle signs, but Dr. Javier cautioned against doing it.

“Symptoms include breathlessness, While heart diseases are common among people in their 60s and up, individuals younger may also find themselves in need of a heart check.

palpitations, fatigue, chest pain, weakness, and edema,” he explains. “Other symptoms not immediately associated with heart problems are pain in the left arm, jaw, back, neck, shoulder blades, and the upper abdomen.”

On the other hand, women with heart disease experience a different set of symptoms. “Excess fatigue, cold sweats, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and even fainting are among the warning signs that they tend to dismiss or mistake as flu.”

“But it should also be emphasized that heart disease can be present with no symptoms at all. That is why we also refer to it as a silent killer,” explains Dr. Javier.

Toys for the kids

Together for Taal THE recent disaster that struck the nation proved that Filipinos always pull through and come together to lend a helping hand. In addition to the help the government extended to those affected by the Taal eruption, the following private entities used their resources to reach and provide relief to those who needed it.

City of Dreams Manila chief operating officer Kevin Benning (right) turns over the P20 million-worth of donation for Taal evacuees to Department of National Defense Secretary and NDRRMC chairman Delfin Lorenzana (middle). With them is PAGCOR chairman and chief executive Andrea Domingo.

‘Portalets’ and tents

Melco Resorts (Philippines) Foundation Corporation, in coordination with Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation, turned over P20 million worth of sanitation facilities and relief goods for the evacuation centers through the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.

The donation from the charitable arm of City of Dreams Manila developer Melco Resorts and Entertainment Corporation included 163 portable toilets and 8x16-feet tents, heeding the appeal of the Department of Health and the Department of National Defense of the need to ensure proper sanitation and hygiene in evacuation centers. Sleeping mats, mosquito nets, first aid and hygiene kits, baby diapers, flashlights, batteries, among other items also comprised the donation.

Despite the disheartening fact that heart disease may affect individuals younger than 60 years old, it can be avoided or managed with practical solutions.

Dr. Javier advises, “First, have yourself checked by a family physician to get a baseline of your overall health, including your heart condition. Find out if you have any pre-existing conditions and what you can do to address them.

And see your doctor regularly to monitor your health.”

The simplest, of course, Dr. Javier says is revamping your lifestyle. “Exercise regularly, eat more fruits, vegetables, and quality protein, and avoid smoking, drinking, or drugs.”

Kids from an evacuation center in Batangas are all smiles holding their new toys from Toy Kingdom.

In addition to over 23,000 kalinga relief packs and more than 2,500 six-liter bottled water donated to evacuation centers in Batangas, Cavite, and Laguna, The SM Group went beyond its relief efforts by bringing smiles to the children.

In partnership with Toy Kingdom, SM gave out SM Bears of Joy and other kids’ toys to children in the evacuations centers in Batangas to make them a little happier.

Social media star Cheridel Alejandrino, more popularly known as #SMElevatorGirl, also visited evacuation sites in Batangas to entertain the evacuees and to help with SM Oplan Tulong Express medical mission and relief packs distribution.

In addition, SM’s Oplan Tulong Express medical mission deployed mobile clinics at the Canossa Academy and Vicente Lojo Memorial School in Banay-banay, both in Lipa City; Mataas na Kahoy National High School; and Bauan Technical High School. Nearly 1,500 patients were seen and given immediate medical assistance.

Care items

Employees from Metro Retail Stores Group, Inc.’s Cebu principal and Manila corporate offices as well as Metro store personnel banded together to collect donations, relief packs, and distribute Oplan Sagip kits for evacuees from Taal, Lemery, San Nicolas, and Agoncillo communities in Batangas.

Each kit contains personal care items, slippers, blankets, and other necessities. The Oplan Sagip kits were given to families staying in Maghinao Elementary School in Bauan, Batangas.

Turn to C2 MRSGI employees distribute relief packs to families staying in Maghinao Elementary School in Bauan, Batangas.

C2

Life

T

Protecting the elderly

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2020 manilastandardlife@gmail.com

HE Department of Health launches an intervention program that seeks to alleviate the burden of pneumonia on Filipino elderly, as part of its mandate enforced through the “Health and Wellness Program for Senior Citizens.”

The respiratory illness ranks third in the leading cause of death due to diseases in the Philippines, next to ischemic heart disease and cancer.

Based on 2016 data from the Philippine Statistics Authority, 57,809 pneumonia deaths were reported in that year alone, accounting for nearly 10 percent of 582,183 registered deaths.

Senior citizens are one of the most susceptible to acquiring pneumonia infection and have a hard time fighting off the disease because of their weakened immune systems. The elderly particularly need protection, one of which is through immunization, to help ensure their health.

In 2016, the DOH launched the Expanded Pneumococcal Immunization Program for Senior Citizens to protect Filipinos aged 60 to 65 years old and make free pneumococcal vaccination more accessible for them through local health centers. It also aims to emphasize the importance of community-led vaccination in reducing the prevalence and impact of pneumonia among the elderly, as well as to build public trust in vaccines.

According to World Health Organization, pneumonia is caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, a bacterium that also causes several other diseases such as meningitis, septicaemia, sinusitis, and otitis media.

The WHO emphasized that pneumonia vaccines are safe and have significantly reduced the incidence of the disease in many countries.

Until now, pneumonia prevails as a health issue in the Philippines despite being vaccine-preventable. According to the WHO, vaccine hesitancy or the refusal to vaccinate is one of the top 10 global health threats in 2019 as it undermines the progress made in winning against vaccine-preventable diseases such as that seen in the return of polio incidences in the Philippines.

To increase immunization coverage for the elderly and to strengthen

from 3rd top disease killer The Provincial Health Office of Cavite leads the ceremonial vaccination during the Bakunado si Lolo at Lola, Iwas Pulmonya mass immunization program in Trece Martires, Cavite.

Representatives from the different stakeholders express their commitment to support health through the ‘Kalasag ng Kalusugan’ Commitment Exercise.

confidence in the safety and efficacy of vaccines, the Department of Social Welfare and Development - CALABARZON, together with the Province of Cavite led by Governor Juanito Victor “Jonvic” Remulla, the Provincial Health Office of Cavite, and DOH conducted the “Bakunado si Lolo at Lola, Iwas Pulmonya” lecture and free pneumonia immunization for almost 1,000 senior citizens from 16 municipalities and seven cities of the province.

Dr. Maria Victoria C. Torres, medical officer III and family health cluster head of the Cavite Provincial Health Office, explained during the program that maintaining a healthy lifestyle (exercising, maintaining a healthy diet, etc.), is still the most effective way of preventing the disease, combined with protection through vaccination.

“People who vaccinate prevent the likelihood of contracting the infection.

It also reduces the transmission of the infection,” Dr. Torres said, adding that pneumococcal vaccine is “also effective against [antibiotic-] resistant strain [of pneumonia].”

Guided by the battle cry, “Bakuna Muna: Dahil ang Bakunado, Protektado,” senior citizens and their caregivers were educated about the disease and the several ways to prevent it.

The first to be vaccinated in the event’s ceremonial vaccination was Ciriaco B. Angeles, president of the Regional Federation of Senior Citizens Association of the Philippines.

Angeles thanked the efforts of the local government and DOH in leading the health initiative.

“Sa pamamagitan ng programang ito, mas natutunan pa namin kung paano alagaan ang aming kalusugan. Sana ay maging malawig pa ito sa buong region ng CALABARZON para iparating sa ating mga nakatatanda ang kabutihan ng pagbabakuna.

Sisikapin namin na suportahan sila sa kanilang mga mabuting layunin at ako ay willing na i-assist sila sa pagpapakilala sa kanilang mga adbokasiya.

Dahil ang bakunado, protektado,” (We learn how to protect ourselves with the help of this program. I hope this reaches more people in the CALABARZON region to help the elderly understand the importance of vaccination. Our group will do our part to support this initiative, as well as assist them in spreading this advocacy.

Because a vaccinated person is protected),” said Angeles.

iPhoto

PDA, MWF unite for oral health THE Philippine Dental Association signed a partnership with the Manila Water Foundation to co-present World Oral Health Day, a global celebration that promotes proper oral health care, on March 20.

Present during the memorandum of agreement signing are PDA president Dr. Stephen B. Almonte; Dr. Anthony Gutierrez, officer-in-charge for the PDA-FDI Committee on World Oral Health Day; MWF executive director Reginald M. Andal; flagship programs manager Jubail Pasia; and partnerships manager Nix Hipolito.

The Mood Lifter essential oils--lemongrass, frankincense, grapefruit.

Wellness company introduces new logo, products LOCAL firm Legánde, Inc. recently marked a milestone after unveiling its new logo and products designed to cater to health and wellness needs.

Established from two companies, Multipure Philippines (official distributor of Multipure water systems) and Pillars 5 (all natural nutrition and wellness company), Legánde also launched its new tagline “Where infinite possibilities live,” to usher in the new year with

new products, and compensation plan for employees.

Legánde’s launch was led by president and chief executive Ramon F. Garcia and chief operating officer Ramon Paolo Garcia Jr. Under its home essentials, the company unveiled Multipure Water Filtration Systems: the AquaDOME, AquaVERSA, and AquaMINI, backed by three certifications (ANSI 42 - Aes-

Legánde chief operaring officer Ramon Paolo Garcia, Jr. and president and chief executive Ramon F. Garcia with Teodoro C. Pascua.

thetic effects; ANSI 53 - Health effects, and ANSI 401 - emerging compounds and incidental contaminants) from the National Sanitation Foundation which users can upgrade with a Legánde Prefilter. Under the same category is the Multipure Aqua Shower that is marked by a Water Quality Seal.

Multipure is the premier manufacturer of high-quality drinking water systems in the United States of America and have been in business for 50 years.

Meanwhile, in the health essentials, Legánde launched gourmet green, black, white, oolong, and fusion of green and jasmine flowers teas. In addition, the firm also rolled out essential oils, namely Mood Lifter (lemongrass, grapefruit, frankincense), Stress and Pain Buster (tea tree, lavender, lemon), and Energy Booster (rosemary, peppermint, orange). The oils come in a sampler kit and regular size in 15ml.

Legánde’s Life Enzyme contains 150 all-natural whole fruits and vegetables as well as medicinal fungi and ancient Chinese herbs which underwent one year fermentation process. The company claims it slows down aging, aids in the relief of digestive disorders, and boosts energy.

Finally, under its beauty essentials, the company launched Argan Oil for hair, body, and face.

A cooking station set up by Solane provides evacuees freshly cooked meals.

Together...

From C1

Cooking stations

To help evacuees enjoy freshly cooked meals, Solane set up cooking stations in various evacuation centers. Food, cooking equipment, and Solane LPG were provided to evacuees.

At the Batangas Sports Complex, a team of Solane volunteers put up a cooking station to offer noodles and coffee to at least 3,000 evacuees. At the Batangas Provincial Capitol, where more than 700 evacuees stayed, the Batangas Divers Association partnered with Solane to provide LPGs for their cooking station.

Meanwhile, in Barangay San Jose, Batangas, Solane donated five sets of stove and LPGs to at least 900 evacuees.

Entertainment

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2020 nickie.standard@gmail.com

C3

SNAPSHOT

Adam Sandler wins at Spirit Awards

IÑIGO stoked

ACTOR and comedian Adam Sandler hit the red carpet with his wife Jackie at the Independent Spirit Awards in Santa Monica, California on Feb. 8.

During the ceremonies, the 53-yearold Sandler received the award for best male lead for his role in the film Uncut Gems.

Hitting the stage for his acceptance speech, Sandler gave a shout-out to his fellow nominees, who he said

“will henceforth be known as the guys” who “lost to Adam Sandler.”

Then, he compared his Oscars snub to getting passed up for the high school yearbook superlative of “best looking,” winning “best personality” instead.

In Uncut Gems, Sandler plays a Jewish jeweler and gambling addict in New York City’s Diamond District, who must retrieve an expensive gem he purchased to pay off his debts. AFP

for penetrating international music scene

Iñigo Pascual with British boyband New Rules

S

INGER and actor Iñigo Pascual is very happy that he has gradually penetrated the international music scene. It all began when he was tapped to sing at the NBA halftime show at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California during the last quarter of 2019.

“This opened other avenues for me, like working with other artists,” he says.

After that performance, the 22-year-old son of Piolo Pascual, started a collaboration project with boy band Pretty Much, a group under Simon Cowell’s management. “ Then, I’m also scheduled to do a tour in the United Kingdom with another boy band called New Rules. We’re going to do nine shows. That’s the reason why I have to stay there for one month,” he adds.

Iñigo is even more excited because he will be on a tour bus and will get to perform before a different set of audience.

“They’re not all Filipinos but a mixture of different nationalities. I’m simply thankful to be given this huge opportunity.

Yes, I won’t deny that I feel nervous but thrilled at the same time,” he avers.

If all these positive developments continue, many are afraid that his local career will take a back seat.

“Actually, I’ve been thinking about that. I ask myself what projects I can do as a way of giving back to my fans here in the Philippines.

Of course, I still want to do Tagalog music and well, yes, get back to acting. I want to do a film or a short TV series. I’m pretty sure I can still squeeze it into my schedule. I want to do it to show my followers how I appreciate their love and support to me,” he explains.

Speaking of acting, Iñigo was last seen on the big screen via I’m Ellenya L that starred him, opposite former girlfriend, Maris Racal. It was fielded as one of the entries in the 3rd Pista ng Pelikulang Pilipino. Interestingly, would he still be willing to make a movie with Maris?

“I’m not closing my doors to other stars but if there’s a chance to work with Maris again, it will be my priority. Anyway, I know that our MarNigo supporters are still there.”

It’s good that he is friends with his former flame despite what happened

I AM...

From C4

The frontliners for the brand, founders Allan Marvin Eder, Aika Lorraine Uy, and Joanna Manego, revealed that it took them two years of prayers and efforts to reach out to Sen. Pacquiao for this partnership and now that it has come true, they definitely see great things happening as both I AM Worldwide and Sen. Pacquiao share the vision that beyond themselves.

Both want to provide meaningful and reliable livelihood for the Filipino with high quality products to sell that they can boast

Very Wang...

From C4

As an artist and producer, Eduard had worked with Ed Sheeran and Justin Bieber in the music video, “I Don’t Care,” before he decided to fully concentrate on his studies. But he said, entertainment still holds a special place in his heart.

Eduard was merely 17 years old when he joined Star Magic Batch 15, launched in 2006. Among his batchmates were Jessy Mendiola, Bela Padilla,and Megan Young.

to their romantic relationship.

“That’s true! Maris and I are fine. In fact, I’m so happy for her since she has lots of projects of late like the currently airing soap Pamilya Ko. I’m glad that we were able to maintain our friendship.”

Fans still hope that eventually, they’ll end up together.

“Well, the universe works in a crazy way. We never know what’s in store for us in the future. All we can do is wait and see,” ends Iñigo. *** In his recent guest stint in the showbiz-oriented talk show Tonight with Boy Abunda, Joshua Garcia contradicted the statement of former steady Julia Barretto that in relationships, not having a closure is considered a closure already. She stated this when she also had an earlier guesting in the same show.

“As former lovers, it’s important that you have a clear Joshua Garcia

talk on the matter. It’s not a closure if both of you didn’t talk about it. The end of a relationship must be clear to both parties. When there’s closure, the two of you can start to move on, right?” says Joshua.

Joshua believes that a certain kind of closure is vital to avoid getting blamed in the future.

“It’s inevitable that in the coming days, the two of you will face jokes as to who left first. A closure is essential for the two of you to have peace that you know neither of you should get the blame.”

Joshua adds that not closing things officially is a sign of disrespect.

“Oh, yes! You’ve loved the person at one point so out of respect, you should have a closure. It’s rude if you can’t give it to someone who became an integral part of your life,” he states.

Iñigo Pascual made history with his recent release 'Catching Feelings' getting aired recently on American radio stations.

worldwide. The choice to partner with Sen. Pacquiao stems from their common experience and principle that anyone who has the will can become successful. They also stand by him because of his concern towards the less fortunate and his drive to help them have better future. The leadership of IAM Worldwide also lauds the Senator for his deep faith in God. IAM Worldwide is a new player in the networking industry.

The company is anchored in the idea of providing an opportunity to anyone who wants to better their lives. The founders Allan Marvin Eder, Aika Lorraine Uy and Joanna Manego, come from their deep understanding of how hard it is to find a decent source of income having experienced different practices before creating their own.IAM Worldwide is a best-practices study that shall provide NEATworking principles.

Eduard later became a TV host and news anchor at Eagle Broadcasting Corporation. He also co-anchored with Arnell Ignacio a tele-radio show at Radyo Singko 92.3 News FM. Moreover, Eduard hosted MTV Asia and even mentored singers who charted Billboard hits.

He briefly worked as a model and even donned Louis Vuitton creations and paraded the walkway for Vogue Philippines.

Then, Eduard worked as coach of the Professional Models Association of the Philippines (PMAP).

“I want my plans to push through and become successful, so I can help more people,” Eduard says.

Award-winning ensemble of Quezon’s Game brings untold history to the big screen QUEZON’S Game has successfully gathered a collective of multicultural talents from its director and actors to production and musicians. Thus, receiving over 25 awards and citations from film festivals across the globe.

An ABS-CBN Film production, in association with iWant and Kinetek, Quezon’s Game reveals the historic leadership of Philippine President Manuel L. Quezon that saved hundreds of Jewish people under the Nazi Regime in Europe.

The film has won nine awards of excellence from the Cinema Worldfest AUTUMN Awards in Canada for Lighting, Original Score, Produced Screenplay, Sound Design, Set Design, Costume Design, as well as acting nods for their leads Raymond Bagatsing and Rachel Alejandro, and supporting actor Billy Gallion. Matthew E. Rosen received an Award of Recognition for directing.

An Award for Merit for a Drama Feature was also given to the film.

It’s also received Best Asian Film, Best Director, Best Cinematography, and Best Music Score awards of excellence from IndieFilm Festival in California. Bagatsing was once again named Best Actor. It was also given an Award of Excellence Special Mention as a feature film.

Quezon’s Game is the feature film directorial debut of Matthew Rosen who has directed television, music videos and more than 700 commercials over 25 years, winning more than 50 international awards. Rosen, who also doubles as the film’s cinematographer, is a British national residing in the Philippines since 1986—and his Filipino wife, Lorena “Lori” Rosen, who co-produced the film, heard the little-known story of the film from members of the Jewish Association of the Philippines in 2009 and instantly realized they needed to retell this extraordinary and moving story on the

big screen.

“I am a Jew who grew up in England and have experienced bigotry, but after 37 years in the Philippines, to this day, I have never come across prejudice, dislike or distrust because I am White or Jewish. In a time of war, when the rest of the world was in despair and apathetic, the Filipino people—who were suffering their own hardships— shed a light on justice and morality to lead others,” he says.

Raymond Bagatsing is a seasoned Filipino actor starring in both television and films. In Quezon’s Game, he plays the titular role of Filipino President Manuel “Manny” L. Quezon. New York Times described his performance as “sincere, [and] rousing.” While the Hollywood Reporter calls Bagatsing “charismatic” as he “delivers a nuanced, compelling turn in the titular role.”

Playing the wife of Quezon is Rachel Alejandro, an iconic Philippine singer who also lent her voice to a version of “Quezon’s Theme”—the film’s emotional them song. As Aurora, Alejandro helped her husband in welcoming more than 1,200 refugees in their family’s property.

A familiar face to viewers of TV series Lost, Hawaii Five-O, and Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Hollywood actor Billy Ray Gallion takes on the role of a prominent Jewish businessman and the one who implored Quezon to establish asylum for refugees. David Bianco first made his appearance in The Boston Kitchen Musical. He plays the young U.S. Army Colonel and future president Dwight D. Eisenhower.

Quezon’s Game is now showing in Brunie at Vision Cinemas and will be screening across Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific from Feb. 27.

More theatre lists and more updates about the film screening, visit www.

QuezonsGame.com, www.mytfc. com or follow TFC Asia, TFC Guam and Saipan, TFC Australia and TFC New Zealand on Facebook.

A scene from the award winning film, 'Quezon’s Game'

Entertainment

Nickie Wang, Issue Editor nickie.standard@gmail.com

C4

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2020

Macbeth opens year with thanksgiving concert party

Slapshock performing at Macbeth thanksgiving party held at Elements in Centris, Quezon City. (Inset) Kyline Alcantara is one of the celebrity guest performers.

IT WAS an explosive and fun night for the employees and guests of Macbeth, a brand under Team Russo Philippines, produce, market, and retail footwear, apparel, and accessories in the Philippines and the Asia market.

Hosted by Shalala and Rico Robles Robles, some of the stars in attendance were teen singer and actress Kyline Alcantara, The Clash season 2 winner Jeremiah Tiango Tiango, and season 1 finalist Anthony Rosaldo do, StarStruck winner Kim de Leon Leon, Marcelito Pomoy moy, Randy Santiago, Bayani Agbayani Agbayani, Marc Pingris gris, Alvin Patrimonio, father

and son Benjie and Andre Paras, and some of the rising bands on the local music scene including Chocolate Factory, Mayonnaise, Join The Club, Soapdish, I Belong To The Zoo, This Band, Maledine, Written By The Stars, and Square One. Since its inception, Macbeth has been a creative outlet for musicians and artists. Macbeth makes shoes and clothing that fit their needs. Macbeth being a San Diego born brand, its philosophy embodies the lifestyle of Southern California, where music, art, and action sports are deeply entwined.

Cruelty-free products are also a big part of the Macbeth line. As a matter of fact, the first shoe Macbeth ever

made was vegan and is still in the lines produced today.

Macbeth takes inspiration from the music and art of its talented extended family of ambassadors to create quality products that look good and feel good to wear. Team Russo Philippines strives to keep this founding philosophy alive as it continues Macbeth’s journey here in Asia.

Team Russo Philippines provides access to the brand to its multitude of customers by building a strong presence in the Philippines and Asian regions with its strategically located stores, an active online presence through its online store, social media and live events featuring our family of Macbeth Ambassadors in varying fields of music, tattoo, and actions sports.

Love lessons to learn this Valentine’s Day JUST like that, January’s history and now, we enter the season of love. There’s plenty to celebrate in February but for the hopeless romantics among us, this month is all about love.

Love can mean different things to different people. It can be expressed in so many ways that oftentimes, it gets confusing.

If you’re one of those baffled by the complexity of this mystery, fret not. We did some research—aka binge watched Netflix K-dramas—and put together this list of love lessons that truly hit home.

Friendship is a great foundation for a romantic relationship, but only if you’re willing to put in the hard work.

(My First First Love). Tae-oh and Songyi are childhood friends who end up living under the same roof, though in a lessthan-ideal situation. You know there’s something special between them, but they initially resist it. Eventually, they give in to their feelings, despite being in seemingly perfect relationships.

It’s a fairy tale ending many people would hope for but being good friends do not automatically translate into being compatible lovers. Often, it requires extra work to make the relationship last especially since it’s easy to fall into that comfort zone of familiarity. Friendship is a great way to start but romantic love requires a deeper commitment.

Technology can be a third wheel in a relationship. (Love Alarm). It’s an alltoo familiar scenario—you’re together but you’re both fixated on your mobile phones. You hardly talk and when you do, it’s bits and pieces of someone else’s life you’ve seen online.

Mobile technology can change lives and relationships for the better. But if unchecked, it can also drive a wedge in a relationship. Love Alarm depicts an example of what happens when we become too reliant on technology to nurture relationships. It starts off as a ‘cutesy’ love triangle but as it progresses, it becomes a compelling, and perhaps

cautionary, tale of love in a digital world.

Pain and loneliness can help teach us to love ourselves. (My Holo Love). SoYeon is lonely and yearning for love.

She has a facial blindness disorder which keeps her distant from other people. Then, she becomes a beta tester for a hologram AI assistant, Holo which helps her get through life while his creator, Nan-Do, starts to fall for her. In the process, she learns a thing or two about love.

Nobody wants to be lonely or suffer pain, but it is inevitable. If anything, it is essential to growth. Through our missteps, we learn. Through our pain, we become stronger. It’s overused but also true.

Learning to love ourselves is important so we can learn to love others better.

It’s your turn to learn these lessons, this love month. Binge watch these episodes on Netflix in HD and at full speed with PLDT Home TVolution Lite powered by Roku® for only P99 on top of your PLDT Home Fibr subscription, every month.

Enjoy seamless and lag-free streaming with the Philippines’ fastest fixed internet service, as certified by global internet testing and analysis leader Ookla®.

And make sure you’ve got your free speedboost so you can get double the speed of your current subscription.

Visit www.pldt.com.ph/speedboost now to find out more.

now Viva’s wonderkid Child star Xia Vigor wanted to be on television for as long as she could remember.

F 'My Holo Love' is a limited series starring Yoon Hyun-min and Ko Sung-hee.

IAM Worldwide partners with Sen. Manny Pacquiao JOINING the ranks of Heart Evangelista, Manila Mayor Isko Moreno, Liza Soberano, and former actress Maritoni Fernandez, among other “namedroppables,” SenatorManny Pacquiao is the latest addition to the growing roster of credible celebrity partners of I AM Worldwide.

In a contract-signing ceremony held

Xia Vigor

recently at the Manila B ballroom of Shangrila Hotel Makati, Sen. Pacquiao’s involvement to the cause of I AM Worldwide was made official.

He was going to be I AM Worldwide’s champion for its men’s line, standing up for basic necessities of men by representing himself and what makes his excellent.Continued on C3

Sen. Manny Pacquiao with the I AM Worldwide founders (from left) Joanna Manego, Allan Marvin Eder, and Aiko Lorraine Uy during the contract signing at the Shangrila Hotel Makati.

IVE years in show business. That’s how long Xia Vigor has been in the industry. It’s literally half of her life.

And things just keep on getting better for the 10-year-old kid who was part of the blockbuster film Miracle In Cell No. 7, which has raked in half-a-billion-peso at the local tills.

Xia is now an official member of the Viva Entertainment family after signing an artist and movie contracts with Viva on Jan. 24. Part of her contract is doing three movies this year.

During her contract signing, Xia was all ecstatic as she talked about Miracle in Cell No. 7, the highest-grossing film in the latest edition of Metro Manila Film Festival, and what she’s going to do with the bonus she got from Viva since the film’s performance exceeded their expectations.

“We don’t know what to do with the money, yet. For sure, we’ll put it in the bank then some portion will go to charity. Our family loves doing charity works,” Xia said in vernacular.

Despite her newfound success, Xia still talks humbly using po and opo in between her sentences and consistently said that her life doesn’t feel any different now that a lot of people already recognize her. In fact, even when she’s at school, she said her classmates don’t treat her as someone special.

“Some of the kids at my school are writing me letters.

They say they enjoyed my movie and they thank me for being a kind classmate.

Whenever I get messages like that, I feel so happy,” she told Manila Standard in an interview.

Since becoming a recognizable face, people come up to her to have a picture with her. She said she doesn’t mind the attention and getting used to it.

“I just enjoy it. I love my job,” Xia, who talks like an adult, said.

Sen. Bong Revilla with Bacoor Mayor Lani Mercado

Born in June 2009, Xia was the first grand winner of It’s Showtime’s segment, “Mini Me 2” as mini Selena Gomez. She was the main co-host of noontime variety segment, “Xia and Kuys” with co-hosts Vhong Navarro and Billy Crawford. She rose to fame after joining Your Face Sounds Familiar: Kids (season 1) and for impersonating American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift.

“I’ve always wanted to appear on TV, I enjoy making people laugh and cry. I think I was born to entertain people,” she ended. ***

Bong Sevilla’s showbiz comeback

In December, GMA network announced that Sen. Bong Revilla would be starring as a forest ranger in a new TV series, Agimat ng Agila, his first showbiz project since his four years in detention for plunder charges, which he was acquitted of by anti-graft court Sandiganbayan in December 2018.

“Showbiz, especially acting is my first love. I’m doing this for myself and for the people who are waiting for my showbiz return.

But of course, I’m not going to abandon my responsibilities in the Senate. We just have to set priorities and manage our time efficiently,” he told the press when asked how he would be able to juggle his time between shoots and his responsibilities as a government official.

Taping for Agimat ng Agila started on Feb. 8 and will air sometime around late March or early April. The show is directed by Rico Gutierrez.

Apart from his TV project, the 53-year-old actorpolitician is also exploring the possibility of going back to the silver screen. Last year, there were reports that he would be doing a movie with Maine Mendoza, Kathryn Bernardo, and even with Catriona Gray.

“Everything is on the drawing board. You’ll be the first to know if I’m going to have a movie with any of them,” he said. ***

Does Eduard Banez miss showbiz?

Former Star Magic talent and Net25 newscaster Eduard Banez is currently in Los Angeles, California to pursue his studies in political arts and media history.

His goal is to graduate at the University of Los Angeles, California University (UCLA) before the year ends.

Continued on C3

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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2020 advertise@manilastandard.net

for

Initiatives to fuel Corporate Social Responsibility

A

CCORDING to the world bank, social inclusion is the process of improving the terms on which individuals and groups take part in society— improving the ability, opportunity, and dignity of those disadvantaged on the basis of their identity.

In this day and age of globalization through social media and the ever widening net of intricacies created by the internet, staying connected and keeping relevant with the trends of cyberspace is easier than ever. Literally, everything is one click away.

Further, our inkling for inclusion is rooted in human psychology.

Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is a theory in psychology proposed by Abraham Maslow in his 1943 paper “A Theory of Human Motivation” in Psychological Review. Maslow subsequently extended the idea to include his observations of humans’ innate curiosity.

In the middle of Maslow’s pyramid model is our need to be loved and feel we belong, further broken down to five categories, are physiological, safety, love and belonging esteem and self-actualization.

The theory states that higher needs in the hierarchy begin to emerge when people feel they have sufficiently satisfied the previous need.

In the context of corporate social responsibility, companies go beyond what can be done and give, other than basic human and safety needs.

That’s why various enterprises, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations, make it their commitment to spearhead social inclusion initiatives present in their Corporate Social Responsibility programs.

As an example is the Clark Development Corporation, which has made it its quest to improve the lives of the Aeta communities that they cater to. This is just one example of the many more projects aimed at social inclusion for marginalized sectors.

Read on, to know more of these wonderful undertakings. Peter Paul Duran

Photos credit Merce Pascual

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Ayala Foundation: Creating a better society

By Charles Dantes

F

OR years, companies attain progress, but still give back to the community.

One such notable group is the Ayala Foundation, created in 1961 and was then known as Filipinas Foundation Inc., founded by the visionary Joseph McMicking and his wife Mercedes ZobelMcMicking.

Filipinas Foundation Inc. advocates the need to “push the frontiers of knowledge and abolish poverty and privation in whatever form among the people of the Philippines.”

In 1990, FFI was renamed into Ayala Foundation Inc., to outline the responsibility and commitment of the Ayala group in creating a better society.

Fast forward to the present, the AFI carries on its vision for a better future—a land of productive, selfreliant and proud Filipinos.

Ayala Foundation Inc. has helped different communities around the country. From indigenous people to victims of typhoons, AFI’s aid extends further into the future of their beneficiaries.

Iraya-Mangyan Program.

Started back in 1991, the IrayaMangyan Program is devoted to the education and skills’ training of the indigenous group in Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro.

For the Mangyans’ sustainable livelihood, Ayala Foundation provides the Talipanan community in the revival of its traditional weaving of beautiful and useful nito products.

With the help of different partners, Ayala Foundation also taught the Iraya-Mangyans dressmaking, electrical skills, masonry, agriculture and many others.

As of 2016, more than 280 families have been reached by the program and around P5.2 million of total sales of indigenous products have been sold.

Weaving girls of Palawan Another program of the AFI is to rejuvenate the weaving prowess of the women in barangay Sibaltan in El Nido, Palawan.

In an effort to help level up the the ladies of Sibaltan’s craftmanship of buri bags and buri products, Ayala Foundation helped the women

Manila Vice Mayor Honey Lacuna (front, third from right) and NHCP Chairman Rene Escalante (front, fourth from left) celebrated National Heroes Day with Ayala group officials by laying a wreath at the foot of the Bonifacio Monument at Tutuban Center. Also in photo are (front, from left): Jason Ngo, Tutuban Center deputy general manager; Norie Raniel, Tutuban Center general manager; Charmaine Bauzon, Ayala Malls assistant vice president for Luzon operations; John Philip Orbeta, Ayala Corporation group head for Corporate Resources; and Cel Amores, Ayala Foundation senior director for corporate communications. ayalafoundation.org

improve their product-making processes and then connected them to different local markets.

AFI also assisted the Sibaltan Heritage Council in their tourism initiatives.

Livelihood in Laguna Since 2012, more than 107 hectares of land in Calauan, Laguna

have been used for the Pasig River Rehabilitation Program and the relocation of families displaced by Typhoon Ondoy.

Rather than sulk from their misfortune, some 4,500 families of Southville 7 received aid from the Ayala Foundation, through its sustainable livelihood projects, that

gave employment to citizens and enterprise to the family.

In partnership with the Makati Development Corporation, one of AFI’s biggest programs is the MDC Greens Project that constructed an ornamental plant farm which provided jobs for the people of Calauan.

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DTI helps integrate Persons with Disabilities to mainstream society

By Charles Dantes

“J

UST because a man lacks use of his eyes doesn’t mean he lacks vision.”

That is the words of the blind American singer Stevie Wonder on how he coped with his disability and to reach success that for him, almost seemed impossible.

There are times when a person

with special needs is neglected badly by society, seeing them as worthless and incapable of casual work.

Deprived of the chance to work independently and have their own businesses, persons

for

with disabilities struggle for a fair shake in life.

But the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has made their wishes come true.

The trade department has launched its “Persons with Disabilities Economic Empowerment Program” to help the integration of PWDs into the mainstream society.

The program provides the following interventions—enterprise-level assistance, enabling environment and policy advocacy.

In a simple ceremony that took place last July, DTI ROG Undersecretary and Permanent PWD Focal Person Zenaida C. Magla-

ya provided Myrla P. Sedenio of the National Council for Disability Affairs with a copy of the DTI Manual on Disability Inclusive Governance.

Witnesses to the said event were DTI-Resource Generation and Management Service staff, led by Zenaida F. Pre and Aurora A. dela Rea, with Randy Calsena of NCDA. The ceremony was held at the DTI Main Lobby wherein the DTI Mural on Disability Inclusive Governance is displayed.

The DTI Mural on Disability Inclusive Governance features persons with disabilities/organizations in the various parts of the country that DTI helped through its programs and services.

Both the handover ceremony and the mural are part of the DTI Calendar of Activities in support of the 41st National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week Celebration last July.

Allianz..

From D2

Absolut Distillers Inc. Overall Head, Gerry Tee (fourth from left), Two Degrees President, Lucio Tan III (center) and Allianz President and CEO, Alex Grenz (seventh from left) along with the volunteers during the tree planting photo op - Paul Gelario

Some 50 employees, including executives from the three companies all joined together to plant aromatic coconut trees imported from Thailand as part of the project’s ceremonial start.

The project lasts up to five years with three major locations, each with different species of trees. The first location is in Batangas, where the aromatic coconut trees will be planted.

The celebration was geared “to strengthen national efforts towards disability prevention and rehabilitation to enable the effective integration of persons with disabilities into the mainstream of society.”

The theme for last year, “Lokal na Pamahalaan: Kabalikat sa Pagtupad ng Karapatan ng mga Taong Maykapansanan,” focused on regional/local efforts, particularly of local government units in increasing awareness about persons with disabilities and promoting their rights.

DTI started to improve its catalog during its yearly trade fairs and exhibits by putting and adding products locally-crafted here in the Philippines and created by disabled workers.

This won the hearts of different business owners and employers to start treating PWDs as normal working individuals.

The second one is in the Cagayan region, where over 24,000 hectares of land will be planted with rubber trees, while the last is in Boracay, where mangroves will be planted.

“As of today, 500,000 trees have been planted in the area, which cover over 24,000 hectares of land,” Two Degrees President, Lucio Tan III said.

“Rest assured, I intend to follow my father’s green advocacy and other efforts that promote sustainability.”

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Allianz President and CEO, Alex Grenz (left) planting Thailand’s Aromatic Coconut while being assisted by Absolut Distillers Inc. Overall Head, Gerry Tee (right) during the tree planting ceremonial - Paul Gelario

Absolut Distillers Inc. Overall Head, Gerry Tee (second from left), Two Degrees President, Lucio Tan III (third from left), and Allianz President and CEO, Alex Grenz (rightmost) during the tree planting ceremonial - Paul Gelario

Allianz PNB Life: Honing talents of minority, oppressed thru sports

By Paul David L. Gelario

A

LLIANZ PNB Life has always been at the forefront of social inclusion by developing the talents of the indigenous minority and the oppressed through sports. Last year, the insurance company’s corporate social responsibility has touched the lives of hundreds by helping their quest in finding their passion for sports.

Placing Top 20 in Allianz OCR One of the most successful parts of Allianz’s social inclusion initiative was when one of the Aetas turned heads during the Allianz Obstacle Course Racing on March 31, 2019. One of the participants, Danilo Yugyug from Porac, Pampanga, landed in the Top 20, giving him a chance to compete for a slot in

I

the national pool for the Southeast Asian Games.

Yugyug thanked Allianz for giving them the chance to compete even if their location was at the remotest part of the mountain.

“Maraming salamat po, dahil kahit nasa pinakasulok kami ng bundok, kinuha nila (Allianz) kami para makilahok,” the 20-year-old Yugyug said.

Allianz’s chief marketing officer nodded in agreement, that as part of Allianz’s social inclusion, they will always give the minority the opportunity.

“Allianz is here for them to give the opportunity,” said Allianz Chief Marketing Officer, Gae Martinez.

Allianz invites FC Bayern Legend to play with Tuloy Foundation Kids What could make playing football more memorable? By playing with a former Bundesliga superstar who treats children like his sons and daughters.

That is what exactly happened to all 27 kids aged 15 to 18 at the Tuloy Foundation on June 29, 2019.

With the help of Allianz,

Giovane Elber came to the country to conduct a football clinic with the Tuloy Foundation. The football clinic had two parts, with the first composed of dribbling, where he set up obstacles the kids must navigate through.

The second part was an exhibition matchup, where he played with the kids, demonstrating his superior dribbling skills slicing through the kids’ defenses, but never attempting to take a shot.

In the end, Elber congratulated the children for playing well, advised them to always have teamwork and never neglect their studies. The children loved approaching Elber and later gave them an autographed picture.

Tuloy Foundation is a center

for the abandoned, neglected, abused and out-of-school children.

Allianz, ADI, Two Degrees to plant 12M trees Allianz, Absolute Distillers Inc. and Two Degrees all joined forces last November 23, 2019 in Lian, Batangas to combat climate change and continue the legacy of Lucio “Bong” Tan, whose unexpected passing made the companies continue his vision of a greener future.

“Bong has left us for a better place. His legacy for sustainability will live on,” Allianz President and CEO, Alex Grenz said.

“We at Allianz will be very honored if we can further support his vision.” Continued on D2

WHEN MISSION BECOMES A VOCATION

T WAS mid-morning in late November and many patients attending the medical mission held at the rural health unit (RHU) in Passi City, Iloilo are either having their vitals checked or waiting their turn to advance in the queue. It was humid, and people are quickly filling up the venue.

Normally, these make up for a combustible combination: nobody likes to wait especially in hot weather. But this is unlike any ordinary day.

Just across the main medical check-up area are rows of chairs filled with patients waiting for their names to be called. Instead of the usual irritated groans from an impatient horde, the waiting area pervades with sounds of singing, laughter, and snappy answers to trivia questions from townsfolks. It was as if they are participating in a noontime TV variety show instead of a medical mission. They might as well be.

BDO Unibank collaborated with the local government unit of Passi to hold the second leg of the BDO Barangay Day, the bank’s way of maximizing the RHUs rehabilitated by its corporate social responsibility arm, BDO Foundation, by offering medical missions in the center, sprinkled with entertainment numbers, games, and financial education videos.

“When we were told that the next Barangay Day would be here in Passi, we felt very excited and we looked forward to it because we never expected that out of the many hundreds of branches, we would be chosen to be the beneficiary of this medical mission,” Iloilo-Passi branch head Lilie Marie Abad said. “We already heard several feedbacks from the people of the rural health unit that they are very grateful that BDO is doing this medical mission for them.”

BIGYAN NG JACKET YAN! “What is the correct answer: one, i-pang gimmick? Two, i-pang shopping? Or three, tipunon (ipunin or save)?” Jojie Aga-in, head of the Roxas-Pueblo De Panay branch and one of the program’s hosts, asked the crowd shortly after a BDO Foundationproduced video on the best way to use

Christmas bonus was played.

“Tipunon!” Merlina Dopamayco, 64, answered with gusto after she was picked from a group of enthusiastic hand-raisers, like a group of schoolchildren actively participating in a class recitation.

“Correct!” replied Aga-in. Afterwards, Dopamayco was awarded with a token to the cheers of the crowd. Though it was her first time to be recognized, Dopamayco has been actively participating in the Q&A portion of the program ever since it started. And even before that, she was dancing and singing in chorus with the BDO performers who serenated the crowd with a number of pop songs. Dopamayco was a bundle of energy even at her age.

“I’m diabetic,” she said, providing yet another surprise. “Nonetheless, that (my health condition) doesn’t deter me from enjoying these festivities. I’m really grateful that they hold a medical mission for indigenous people here in Passi.”

Aside from availing of the free medical consultation, Dopamayco stressed she actively participated in the Q&A not because of the prize, but because she was eager to learn the financial lessons shared in the videos.

“I wanted to know if my answers are

correct,” she explained. “These lessons are really valuable for me because money’s hard to come by. Once you have money, you have to save it. Open a bank account and put your money there. I will impart these lessons to my children as well.

(They should) deposit the money they saved from their allowance to their bank account.”

HEALING OF THE BODY, MIND AND SOUL For Elenita Gepulgase, 55, the Barangay Day provided a much-needed respite for her aching body.

“I have a terrible headache and pain in different parts of my body. I hope to see a doctor about this. There’s no other bank that has come to our place to offer this kind of service, only BDO. Thank you for giving us medicines. Thank you BDO, for holding this medical mission here in Passi,” she said.

Teresita Baybay, 67, who came with her husband Bienvenido, echoed that feeling.

“We learned about this Barangay Day from a midwife. We have coughs so we want to have it checked up. My husband is also experiencing some pain in his legs so we want a doctor to take a look at it as well,” she noted. “We’re very happy that BDO held this type of event for our community. This gave us a chance not only to have our illnesses checked up by a doctor, but also afforded us the opportunity to watch some entertainment.”

Even for those who were not participating in the medical mission came away impressed at the activities provided by the Bank.

“My eyes were opened on the importance of saving. The future, especially for us in the police force, is so uncertain,” said Patrolwoman Sheryll Joy Cape, 28, of the Passi City Police Station. The station is just

beside the Passi RHU, thus Cape had a good view of the activities that was transpiring. “These lessons will really help us.

I have a family and our kids are already going to school. I’m interested in opening a Junior Savers account for my sixyear old son. That’s the first step to secure his future because he will learn to appreciate the value of money even at an early age. The money he will receive from Christmas, I hope he’d rather save them in the bank rather than ask me to buy him new toys of clothes.”

“I will also share the things I’ve learned here to my husband Nico who is an OFW in Dubai for eight years now,” she added.

Jobelle Aiko Gallardo, 22, who works as Staff 2 at the Roxas Ave. branch in Iloilo and was hired by BDO just last August 16, said she doesn’t mind spending her weekend outside serving those in need, rather than staying at home to rest after a week’s work.

“This is a great feeling. Instead of just staying at home doing nothing, we’re here serving the people in the barangay. When I first got to a big company like BDO, I thought it would be just work, work, work. I didn’t realize we also do outreach programs like this medical mission.

It’s a good feeling knowing you’re out there helping other people, and not just your clients,” she said. “I know I can share this (experience) to other and future employees of BDO. Even if this happens just once in my life and the people I’ve helped don’t even remember me, I know there was that one day that I went out of my way, out of my comfort zone, to help other people.”

WHERE DID THEY GET THE ENERGY? When the Passi Barangay Day ended slightly past noon, none from the branch-

es that participated in the event showed any sign of fatigue. The mere thought of serving the underprivileged served as an elixir.

“I don’t feel tired at all. Initially, we thought we would be the ones to provide fun to all the participants. But as the activities went on, it was us who were inspired, who had fun. We feel fulfilled,” said Aga-in. “Honestly, we did not expect this much participation because there was an incoming typhoon and due to other issues and considerations. But as early as 7AM, there were already plenty of participants coming from different barangays.

Seeing that, it was reason enough for us to feel energized and to keep on going all throughout this half day.”

“We embraced the tasks, we embraced the objective. Not just as a matter of obligation but also as a matter of self-giving to the community because it’s going to be Christmas time and we are again reminded of the relationship that we have with the community,” he pointed out.

Aga-in’s program co-host, Mary Jane Babalo, also head of the Iloilo-Citymall Pavia branch, shared the same sentiment.

“I don’t feel tired because we’re focused on the things that we had to do, on the purpose on why we’re here. I’m happy that the people were very receptive. It just shows that your message got across, that they appreciate this. And then, more importantly, we saw that they really enjoyed this activity,” she said. “To the next venue of the next Barangay Day, keep an open mind, especially for those in need. We have to find in our hearts to serve the people. It’s our civic duty to serve in the community that we’re in. It’s not about selling your product. It’s about volunteerism, then you get a sense of fulfillment.”

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Pawnshops evolve with the times, serve as key players in financial inclusion initiatives

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local pawnshops are actually highly professional organizations that follow one of the strictest codes of operations, based on BSP guidelines, and likewise comply with the Securities and Exchange Commission’s requirements on corporate governance.

Cebuana Lhuillier, one of the country’s major players in the pawning industry with all of its 2,500 branches nationwide, undergo regular trainings and armed with the highest standard of appraisals, so clients are assured of getting the best value for their pawned items at any time and at any branch.

“Over the years, pawning has evolved to become the fastest

CCORDING to the latest Anti-Money Laundering Council’s Strategic Analysis Report published in 2018, pawnshops along with money service businesses are crucial to the promotion of financial inclusion.

These alternative financial service access points contribute to the further expansion of the formal financial system.

In fact, pawnshops have become one of the biggest supporters of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ program in promoting microfinancial services and providing financial access to the poor and micro and small entrepreneurs, something that is not otherwise possible via banks and bigger financial organizations.

Contrary to the misconception,

and easiest means to get access to cash. With our wide network, we are able to reach the vast majority of people who have little to no access to financial services. This, in turn, helps Filipinos level up and take the first step towards financial wellness,” said Jean Henri Lhuillier, president and CEO of Cebuana Lhuillier.

As the coming of a new decade beckons a myriad of opportunities for Filipinos to take control of their own fate, the support of government entities such as the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, alongside private institutions like Cebuana Lhuillier, remain invaluable as they continue to pave the road to financial inclusion for every Filipino.

Cebuana Lhuillier CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier (center)

OWNDAYS hands over proceeds of ‘Cases for Change’ to beneficiaries EYEWEAR retailer supports partners that cater to the more vulnerable parts of the society.

In line with its belief that change can make the world look more beautiful, OWNDAYS Philippines has culminated the pilot year of its ‘Cases for Change’ campaign by handing over the full proceeds from the two-month promo to its three chosen partner-organizations.

The Philippine Animal Welfare Society, World Vision, and World Wide Fund for Nature were the beneficiaries the eyewear retailer chose to collaborate with for the specialized cases. ‘Cases for Change’ was rolled out in all OWNDAYS stores nationwide from April to May last year. These collaboration cases were sold for P250 each for every purchase of any prescription glasses and P500 for just the case. The goal was to generate funds for the non-profit organizations’ causes and to create awareness about those groups’ advocacy.

“We are a brand that gives back,” said OWNDAYS Philippines Managing Director Vohne Yao. “I reiterate that though the company has contributed as well to this campaign, we are merely a channel. Our customers who actually purchased the specially-designed cases have supported the organization of their choice.”

World Vision Philippines For World Vision Philippines, the proceeds from the campaign came just in time for Continued on D6

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Taking care of children’s welfare

By MJ Blancaflor

S

EVERAL non-governmental organizations support initiatives for children’s welfare such as empowering outof-school youth and alleviating them from poverty. These NGOs initiate projects to ensure that children’s needs are taken care of, with the goal of giving them dignified lives to become assets in society.

Thinking of supporting an NGO? We listed these organizations, their goals, and where you can

find them: 1. World Vision. It believes that the child sponsorship program

facilitates overall growth and development in the community.

By pooling together all

sponsorship donations, selected children, and their communities acquire access to education. Like in other countries, World Vision works with communities in the Philippines. To select the children who will become scholars, the organization partners with local staff and families.

The sponsorship may last several years depending on the sponsor. It may end for various reasons, but the newfound friendship between the sponsor and the beneficiary will

last a lifetime. In case the sponsor misses his pledge, World Vision starts looking for another sponsor.

The organization was founded in 1950 by Rev. Robert Pierce, an American Baptist minister and relief worker. It performs as a service group to meet the emergency needs of Christian missionaries. In 1975, development work was added to World Vision’s objectives.

Visit worldvision.org.ph for more info.

Continued on D8

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Children’s safety, protection a must

By Charles Arvin Dantes

N

ATIONAL hero Dr. Jose Rizal believed in the power of youth, as evident in his famous quote “the youth is the hope of our future.”

It may sound cheesy to some, but Rizal made sure that his message will make waves up to the present day.

Believing that the youth will be the backbone of a thriving society is great, but children’s safety and protection are a different matter.

As of 2017, the World Health Organization released an estimated number of abuses and violence perpetrated towards minors aged 2 to 17 worldwide.

In the report showed to the public, up to a billion kids have endured

different forms of physical, emotiona,l and mental attacks.

In the Philippines, the United Nations Children’s Fund found out that 8 in 10 children and young people have experienced different forms of maltreatment in their lifetime. And it usually begins at home.

The continuous build-up of victims all over the world pushed the Save the Children Foundation to fight for what is right for the youth.

Save the Children has been safeguarding kids in the

Philippines for more than three decades.

The foundation aims to protect and support children that are in need, save lives that are in danger, fight for the right of a child and create better lives for the youth in the country.

Humanitarian Response Save the Children is always ready to show up when disasters and armed conflicts affect the lives of the young ones.

The group focuses on giving the victims the long-term support that they need in the form of livelihood, education and a stronger community resilience program.

Other than the long-term support, Save the Children provides access to food, shelter, clean water, education and healthcare. Another program they have is the Preparedness,

Risk Reduction and Resilience Building lectures to ready the whole country in facing dangers and threats.

Health and Nutrition A healthy child is a happy child-that is the proper way to explain how important nutrition and health for children.

Save the Children also teaches parents and teachers on the significance of proper childcare and nutrition, while training kids and teens on hygiene and dental care. They also carry out malnutrition treatment programs for the less fortunate.

And lastly, they give emergency healthcare for children and families affected by armed or natural disasters.

Education Learning begins before birth!

Now more than ever, the early

years are being recognized as the foundation of human development and life-long learning.

All children should have access to appropriate support right from birth. Save the Children works with relevant service providers to support female and male caregivers and ensures that young children’s needs for good health, optimal nutrition, security and safety, opportunities for early learning, and responsive caregiving are provided from age 0.

Save the Children creates breakthroughs in developing mother tongue books, which are developmentally appropriate and culturally sensitive. A Book Development Review Committee for mother tongue languages in Mindanao was even established, Continued on D8

OWNDAYS...

From D4

the humanitarian development and advocacy organization’s ongoing relief response for affected families in a recent major earthquake that hit Mindanao.

“World Vision Philippines is currently setting up child-friendly places and temporary learning facilities where thousands of children in earthquake-hit areas can undergo psychological support and still attend classes,” said World Vision Philippines Executive Director Rommel Fuerte. “We are very happy and grateful to OWNDAYS and its customers for believing in our cause. We commit ourselves to be accountable to every centavo given to us,” he added.

The Philippine Animal Welfare Society PAWS Executive Director Anna Hashim-Cabrera thinks the overwhelming support from OWNDAYS Philippines and the customers who bought the PAWS cases is an affirmation that a lot of Filipinos now recognize that their pets give so much to them, thus the need to give back.

Proceeds from ‘Cases for Change’ will help PAWS fund its core initiatives: operating its animal assisted program in its headquarters in Quezon City, rolling out lowcost spay and neuter efforts to curtail pet overpopulation, educating communities about animal welfare, filing legal cases against animal offenders, and lobbying for legislations that will protect animals.

World Wide Fund for Nature Philippines Kabang Kalikasan ng Pilipinas Foundation or World Wide Fund for Nature Philippines (WWF-Philippines) is allocating the fund it received from ‘Cases for Change’ for environmental education across the country. The non-profit environmental organization serves up to 20,000 public schools, where it trains students and teachers of ways to preserve Mother Nature.

“We are happy as this campaign somehow shows that there is an increased consciousness, trigger, and mindset among local consumers to help the environment in their own little ways,” said WWF-Philippines President and CEO Jose Angelito Palma. “WWF aims to change behaviors. First, we impart knowledge, then we provide skills, leading to an eventual change in behavior.”

After the overwhelming success of the first ‘Cases for Change’ campaign, OWNDAYS is considering the possibility of launching a second edition of the program, with a different set of beneficiaries, soon.

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Marawi’s ‘Bakwit Village’ gets additional residential, educational and livelihood facilities

Ronald Mascariñas, BAVI president and Special Olympics executive Kaye Samson open the inaugural Unified Basketball clinic under Chooks-to-Go’s “Kaya ‘Yan, Manok ng Bayan” program. Joining them are brand ambassador Kiefer Ravena and the FIBA 3X3 national team.

Chooks-to-Go, Special Olympics roll out unified basketball clinic for PIDs, BAVI employees

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HOOKS-TO-GO and Special Olympics Asia Pacific have conducted a sports clinic for persons with intellectual disabilities, their families, and employees of Bounty Agro Ventures, Inc., operator of the country’s largest roasted chicken chain.

The first in a series of activations nationwide under BAVI’s flagship corporate social responsibility program “Kaya ‘Yan, Manok ng Bayan”, the Unified Basketball Clinic saw more than 35 PIDs team up with their family members and BAVI employees as they went through a set of basketball-related games and drills.

“This unified basketball clinic is

our way of helping PIDs develop their sports skills as they gain selfconfidence. For BAVI employees and other stakeholders, it is an opportunity to better appreciate the abilities of PIDs as they bond together through this activity and develop their camaraderie,” said Ronald Mascariñas, BAVI president and general manager.

The unified basketball clinic was

facilitated by Special Olympics and BAVI basketball coaches, including Chooks-to-Go brand ambassador, Kiefer Ravena. It was held at The Upper Deck in Ortigas Center, Pasig City.

Special Olympics executive, Kaye Samson welcomed the sports clinic participants, while Special Olympics powerlifting athlete and BAVI administrative assistant, Henry Munarriz gave an inspirational message to his fellow PIDs and their families.

The ‘Kaya ‘Yan, Manok ng Bayan’ campaign is a year-long sports development and employment program that aims to benefit PIDs through nationwide sports fests, training sessions, and job recruitment activities of BAVI offices. The company hopes to offer at least 20 positions to qualified PIDs from Special Olympics Asia Pacific.

AS THE locals of war-torn Marawi City continue to rebuild their lives after being displaced by the fivemonth war in 2017, many affected families saw a glimmer of hope when the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation, in partnership with the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators, completed the second phase of the ‘Bakwit Village.’

Recently, PAGCORs Board of Directors led by Chairman and CEO Andrea D. Domingo and President and COO Alfredo Lim, together with the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators group, turned over a total of 130 housing units measuring 22.75 sqms. each to the displaced families.

Aside from the housing units, 20 livelihood stalls and two educational buildings were donated by the POGO group to help create livelihood and educational opportunities for the

locals.

Financial assistance worth P50,000 each was also given to 20 families as start-up fund for their intended small businesses.

A three-hectare community with modular units and houses made of light wooden materials, the ‘Bakwit Village’ serves as (POGOs) temporary home of families who lost their properties or were forced to flee Marawi City when fighting erupted between government forces and the ISIS-inspired Maute terrorist group in May 2017.

In December 2017, PAGCOR and POGO initially awarded 300 housing units to the affected families. The recipients of the temporary shelters were identified by representatives of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

The POGO group also committed to shoulder the water and electricity bills of the families in ‘Bakwit Village.’

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Taking care...

for

Childrens’...

From D5

From D6

2. All Together in Dignity. ATD Fourth World is a movement of solidarity among and in collaboration with the most excluded families around the world. The group is composed of volunteers who work with impoverished communities to create solutions to fight poverty. It conducts street libraries, fora, workshops, and art activities for children through the help of volunteers. In Asia, ATD Fourth World has teams in the Philippines and Thailand and coordinates with the Asian network of the Forum for Overcoming Poverty.

over 1.9 million Filipino kids and directly impacted the lives of 560,000 children.

The organization started its first program in the country for impoverished children and families on Guimaras Island in Western Visayas through health, education, and livelihood projects that benefited over 3,000 children. Later on, it expanded to new areas like Ilocos Norte and Metro Manila in partnership with government agencies and organizations like UNICEF to support children growing up in the poorest and most challenging circumstances.

To help, visit savethechildren.org.ph.

4. Edicute Incorporated. It is a nonprofit volunteer organization, which seeks to promote education and reduce illiteracy rate among Filipino indigenous peoples, with the goal of empowering them. It has conducted

Founded in 1957 by Joseph Wresinski, the organization brings together women and men from all cultures and social classes and is active in 34 countries. It is an international nongovernmental organization with no religious or political affiliation. The organization accepts either one-time and recurring donations, as well as partnerships with the private sector.

For more info, visit www.atd-fourthworld. org or send an email at philippines@atdfourthworld.org.

3. Save the Children. It is an independent organization which opposes all forms of violence against children. Present in the Philippines since 1981,Ad-theManila group has reached Standard.pdf 1 2/5/20

outreach programs that benefited more than 5,500 IP schoolchildren and over 2,700 families nationwide. Annually, it offers three major outreach projects every May, August and December.

Founded in 2011, Edicute offers out-of-theordinary outreach activities that will challenge any volunteer, including travel to via roro, dump truck, and habal-habal. Volunteers are expected to prepare meals, conduct gradelevel specific activities for kids, and immerse with the community through foster families.

For more information, contact edicute. incorporated@gmail.com.

5. Global Peace Philippines. It’s an international non-sectarian, non-partisan, nonprofit organization, which promotes an innovative and values-based approach to

peace-building. Founded in 2009, Global Peace Foundation engages and organizes a global network of public and private sector partners in a bid to develop peace building models.

Visit globalphilippines.org for more information.

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ensuring an inclusive process comprised of tribal chieftains, community leaders, teachers, parents, and elders. These books cover topics on indigenous games, culture, and traditions.

Childs’ Rights and Protection All children, especially the most vulnerable, must be protected at all costs. Hence, Save the Children works with government, non-government organizations, children’s groups, schools and communities to strengthen the protective environment for children.

The group also joins forces with the government at national and local levels to pass and implement laws and policies that will protect children from all forms of violence.

Presently, Save the Children is persuading Congress to pass a law that would protect children from physical and humiliating punishment, while promoting positive discipline.

With the partnership with government agencies and NGOs, the foundation assists parents, caregivers and teachers to change the way they discipline children into more positive and non-violent ways through its Positive Discipline in Everyday Parenting and Positive Discipline in Everyday Teaching trainings all over the country.

To know more about Save the Children Philippines, visit its website https://www. savethechildren.org.ph/

We do health. Because you’ll be stronger for your loved ones.

When you take care of your body today, you’ll be more prepared for what tomorrow may bring. That’s why at Pru Life UK, we’re doing more to help you live a healthier and more secure life. See more of what we’re doing at www.prulifeuk.com.ph.

Listening. Understanding. Delivering.

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www.prulifeuk.com.ph

Pru Life UK - Official

@PruLifeUK

@PruLifeUK

Pru Life UK

Established in 1996, Pru Life UK is the pioneer of insuravest, or investment-linked life insurance products, in the Philippines and is one of the first life insurance companies approved to distribute US dollar-denominated investment-linked life insurance policies in the country. Since its establishment, Pru Life UK has expanded its reach to over 170 branches in the Philippines, with the biggest life agency force of more than 34,000 licensed agents. The company is also one of the country’s top three life insurers based on the Insurance Commission’s 2018 rankings in terms of new business annual premium income. Pru Life UK is headquartered in Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City. Pru Life UK and Prudential plc are not affiliated with Prudential Financial, Inc. of the United States, Prudential Assurance Company (a subsidiary of M&G plc, a company incorporated in the United Kingdom), Philippine Prudential Life Insurance Company, Prudentialife Plans, Inc. or Prudential Guarantee and Assurance, Inc. (all Philippine-registered companies). Pru Life UK is a life insurance company and is not engaged in the business of selling pre-need plans. For more information: www.prulifeuk.com.ph

SD Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program: Poor households get shot in arm

By Charles Dantes

P

OVERTY is one of the main reasons why the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program or 4Ps has flourished. For 12 sustainable years, the initiative has been embracing fellow Filipinos with open arms.

The 4Ps is a human development program that invests in the health and education of poor households, particularly minors aged 0-18.

The government patterned the program from developing countries to fight poverty and provide assistance through cash grants given to the families or beneficiaries that comply with the conditions set by the project.

In the Philippines, the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program serves as a vehicle to combat the poverty cycle in Filipino households. Implemented by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), it is one of the key poverty alleviation programs of the national government that seeks to contribute in breaking the intergenerational transmission of poverty in the country.

The social welfare department continues to improve the service of 4Ps, from back-to-school projects, to small enterprises, and with it, the battle against poverty alleviation has come a long way.

In the statistics posted on the official website of the DSWD, around 4.9 million poor households have received benefits from the program since its inception in 2008.

The social developmental campaign has four different packages that supply different aids to those who need them.

A household is entitled to receive the following grants: Health Grant With the health grant, every household beneficiaries receive P500 per month and a requirement to attend the monthly Family Development Session.

Education Grant Every child, part of the grant from a household with a maximum of three persons, receives a total of P300 for elementary students, and P500 per pupil in high school. The grant will also run for the whole academic year only or 10 months.

Rice Subsidy An active, compliant and registered Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program household beneficiary will also collect a rice subsidy that amounts to P600 per month or P7,200 a year.

Unconditional Cash Transfer Subsidy or UCT Subsidy The government’s Unconditional Cash Transfer program is the tax subsidy provided under the TRAIN law to help the poor cushion the adverse economic effects of the policy.

The top-up cash subsidies amount to P200 a month for 2018 and P300 a month for 2019 and 2020.

Conditionalities Listed here are the main conditions needed by a beneficiary to comply in order to receive full access to the social assistance: 1. Parents must attend family development sessions.

2. Pregnant women must avail of pre- natal and post-natal care and be attended during childbirth by a trained health professional.

3. 0-5-year-old children must receive regular preventive health check-ups and vaccines.

4. 6-14 years old children must receive deworming pills twice a year.

5. All child beneficiaries (0-18 years old) must enroll in school and maintain class attendance of at least 85% per month.

As of March 2019, there are 4.2 million active households/beneficiaries in 41,539 barangays from 1,482 municipalities receiving grants from the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program.

To know more about the 4Ps’ initiative, visit official website https:// pantawid.dswd.gov.ph/about/.

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Changing the world by learning

I

T WAS American public school system pioneer Horace Mann, who said in the 19th century that education is the great equalizer.

However, opportunities don’t usually come knocking for the minority to enjoy this right and consequently, privilege.

One cannot emphasize the importance of eduction enough, as a philosopher once said: “The foundation of every state is the education of its youth.”

Benjamin Franklin opines: “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.”

Take it from one of the founding fathers of the United States of America, who valued his learning more than anything. A testament to this was his accomplishments as a profound polymath, inventor, scientist, printer, politician, Freemason and diplomat.

But times have changed, and in a fast-paced and modern world, we tend to overlook the important things in life. The ones that are supposed to be a right and necessity have become luxury to some, just like having access to quality education.

These days, education is considered a luxury and not a right.

That’s why companies, believing in the power of education, have leveled the playing field for those armed only with potential and perseverance to pursue their dreams through education.

Through the years, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in the Philippines has created a long-term, sustainable change to help provide and enrich the quality of education in the country.

From the public to the private sector, companies and agencies have been actively involved in the growth and development of education in the Philippines.

And to help prevent the looming serious problem of shortage of a skilled and smart workforce, companies have included education in their social responsibility programs.

Education is often seen as their ticket out of poverty.

However, for those living in poverty, access to education is easier said than done. With limited resources, many of them go to school on an empty stomach, and with incomplete school supplies. Some even skip going to school altogether on days when they have absolutely no money for their commute and meal.

The main purpose of CSR is to create a support system that comes full circle. To these agencies and companies, education is a right for everyone to appreciate and enjoy, and a powerful weapon to help change the world. Peter Paul Duran

Health, wellness for progress

H

EALTH is wealth.

And if you ask companies that have made it their commitment to spread the importance of health and wellness through their corporate social responsibility programs, this is one aspect that everyone’s concerned with.

There is an ethical obligation of hospitals, businesses and other organizations to deliver quality healthcare to those who need it most, creating avenues for every individual to partake in a healthy lifestyle and do something beneficial for the overall well-being of their employees and immediate touchpoints.

Companies directly involved in industries such as sports, pharmaceuticals, primary and urgent care, as well as enterprises that put premium on the health of their people, have a conscious effort to improve the understanding of nutrition towards a healthy and balanced lifestyle and extend help to the countryside.

But this does not just stop there, as these industries could be an avenue to inspire the next generation, especially those who are underprivileged.

Schools, for example, give out athletic scholarships for student athletes.

As an essential part of doing their businesses, companies reach out in ways they can do best, and with the tools they already have in their hands.

In health and wellness, they have, no doubt, come a long way in the promotion of a healthy and balanced lifestyle fit for the community they serve. Peter Paul Duran

Champions of Education Metrobank scholars, with George Ty, the late founder and chairman of Metrobank http://www.mbfoundation.org.ph

By MJ Blancaflor

G

IVE a man a fish and he will eat for a day. Teach a man how to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.

The first recorded English version of this proverb can be found in a novel called “Mrs. Dymond” published in 1885 by Victorian writer Anne Isabella Thackeray Ritchie.

The proverb is at least 135 years old, but many of us would still agree that educating a person is more beneficial in the long run than temporarily satisying a need.

Opportunites, however, are not served in a silver platter.

Thankfully, the private sector

has been initiating efforts to fill this gap. After all, corporate social responsibility empowers employees to leverage resources at their disposal to do good.

In the Philippines, some companies have made their mark in championing education through their CSRs. 1. SM Scholarships Scholarships from companies as a form of a CSR project allow many poor but deserving students to finish their studies—just like

how the SM Foundation does it.

SM Scholarships began in 1993 as the late business tycoon Henry Sy, Sr. with his spouse Felicidad T. Sy accepted scholars. The Sy patriarch believed that if somebody who can graduate from college, would soon, lift his family from poverty.

SM now offers scholarships dubbed as the SM College Scholarship and the SM TechnicalVocational Scholarship.

College scholars should take any of these programs: computer science, information technology, electronics and communications engineering or electronics engineering, computer engineering, civil engineering, electrical engineering, elementary education or secondary education major in biology, chemistry, general sciences, physics, mathematics, and English.

They could also take a degree in accountancy, accounting technology, accounting information systems, internal auditing, financial management, or management accounting.

College scholars benefit from full tuition, a monthly allowance, the choice of specialization, part-time jobs during semestral or holiday breaks and exclusive job offers when they graduate.

Senior high school applicants should have a general weighted average of 88 percent and an annual household income amounting to or less than P150,000.

2. PLDT-Smart Foundation’s Gabay Guro Believing that behind every great Filipino is a great teacher, PLDTSmart Foundation established Gabay Guro in 2007 to recognize

and honor the country’s educators for their role in nation-building.

PLDT Gabay Guro supports and honors teachers through its seven pillars of learning; namely, scholarship grants, teachers’ training, livelihood projects, teachers’ tribute, housing, and of course, broadbanding and computerization, and the newly launched innovations pillar where the goal is to equip teachers, school leaders, school staff, and other stakeholders with an empowering innovation mindset.

Over the years, more than 50,000 educators have benefited from PLDT Gabay Guro’s regular training programs, which include personality development, emotional intelligence, English proficiency, information technology, Next page

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Health is wealth The Philippines sets another world record for the largest Zumba class with 12,975 participants in a single venue. With the turnout on Sunday, July 19, Mandaluyong City now holds the Guinness world record, surpassing the one set by Cebu in 2014, with 8,200+ participants. Ey Acasio

By Jobe Regondola Garcia

J

UST as the saying goes, “Health is wealth.” The healthier you are, the more wealthier you can be in life.

So today we shall be tackling about some of the different health care programs of the Department of Health (DOH) that you might not know. First off would be the Smoking Cessation Program. Tobacco, as we all know it, is the major cause of health problems globally. According to WHO’s 2005 report entitled The Role of Health Professionals in Tobacco Control, there is

a whopping estimate of a billion smokers in the world and a shocking 4.9 million deaths per year and if consumption patterns do not change, by the year 2020, the total number of deaths shall rise by 10 million people. Due to the highly addictive substance of tobacco, users need support in kicking the habit off their system. A survey by The Philippine Global Adult Tobacco revealed that in 2009, 28.3% of the populace currently smoke tobacco, as young as 15 years old. 47.7 percent are men, while 9% are women. The mandate of this program is to promote and advocate the termination of the use of tobacco in the Philippines and to provide smoking cessation services to current smokers,

starting at the Primary Level, which is the Barangay Health Clinics, conducting Risk Assessments and Screenings, Quit Clinics and leveraging on Nicotine Replacement Therapy. Then on the Secondary Level, which would be the nurses, doctors and other health personnel that would be in-charge of their intervention package called “Quit Day,” a pharmacologic, psychological and behavioral intervention.

Next off would be the National TB Control Program. Before we dive into details, we must first know what is TB or Tuberculosis. Tuberculosis is a disease caused by a bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The latter’s mode of transmission is through the air

when a person with TB coughs, sneezes or talks. Be forewarned that TB is NOT hereditary, TB cannot be acquired from sleeping late at night, vomiting or by simply having dry sweat in the back and most of all, it is NOT acquired through mosquito bites. This program aims to have a TB-free Philippines by achieving zero deaths, disease and suffering due to tuberculosis, a decreased 95% TB mortality rate by 2035, reduced number of TB deaths by 50% and its incidence rate by 15%. Worry not because of the very accessible modern scientific breakthroughs, TB CAN be eradicated, which reminds me of Mitch Valdes’ comical yet catchy TB-DOTS commercial stinger, “Pag may DOTS, TB nagagamots. Anim

na buwang gamutan ipairal!” Yes! It would only take 6 months of consistent treatment and you can live your life once again.

Another would be the Cancer Control Program. We all know that cancer is one of the leading causes of death globally, with 14 million new cases and 8.2 million deaths linked to different types of cancer. According to the World Health Organization, annual cancer cases would arise from 14 million in 2012 to 22 million in the next two decades. Having said that, cancer remains a top national health priority in our country with implications for everyone. In response to that, the said

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TeaM Energy rehabilitates Sual dam for improved farming irrigation THE newly rehabilitated Logolog Dam in Sual, Pangasinan will soon help Sual farmers effectively irrigate their crops for improved growth, yield, and quality.

The dam, which can potentially irrigate 50 hectares of farmland, was rehabilitated through the Logolog Riverbank Rehabilitation Program of TeaM Energy, in partnership with the National Irrigation Administration (NIA).

“We envision the Logolog Dam to be one of TeaM Energy’s legacy projects,” shares Ruben H. Licerio, Station Manager of the Sual Power Station in Pangasinan that is operated

by TeaM Energy. “Through this project, we hope to improve the livelihood of Sual farmers by enabling them to have three crop harvest cycles throughout the year to boost their productivity,” he adds.

The project was recently

Furthering literacy, education in 9th Jollibee Family Values Awards

“L

ITERACY is a bridge from misery to hope,” thus articulated Kofi Annan, the late United Nations Secretary-General.

This profound message could very well have been said in the recent Jollibee Family Values Awards, now on its 9th year, as four Filipino families, who selflessly advocate for literacy, and the

ity which trains Grade 4-6 students to become their own storytellers and writers. A proud product of this initiative is “Super Labandera,” the first book written by TSP participant Jim Carolino.

Ruben H. Licerio, Station Manager of TeaM Energy’s Sual Power Station (center) and Liseldo DQ. Calugay, Mayor of Sual, Pangasinan (right) formally turn over the newly rehabilitated Logolog Dam to Benjamin Reynaldo, President of the Mabilay Danum Logolog Farmers Irrigators Association. Sual farmers will greatly benefit from the newly rehabilitated dam which will provide communal irrigation.

turned over by TeaM Energy to the Mabilay Danum Logolog Farmers Irrigators Association.

Present during the turnover were Sual Mayor Liseldo DQ. Calugay, and Gaudencio M. de Vera,

The newly rehabilitated Logolog dam, located on the Logolog River in Sual, Pangasinan, has the capacity to irrigate 50 hectares of farmlands.

head of the Pangasinan Irrigation Management Office of NIA. The Logolog Dam was constructed in the 1980s by local farmers in Sual, Pangasinan but has never undergone any modification or rehabilitation. It is located along the Logolog River, which also underwent streambank rehabilitation through the Adopt-a-River program of TeaM Energy.

TeaM Energy is the single largest Japanese investment in the country with over 2,000 MW of installed generating capacity in Luzon. It operates two coalfired power plants: the 735 MW Pagbilao Power Station in Quezon Province and the 1,200 MW Sual Power Station in Pangasinan. It also has a 50% stake in the 420 MW Pagbilao Unit 3 Power Project in Quezon, and a 20% stake in the Ilijan natural gas project in Batangas.

Eager kids excitely participate in a reading session organized by the Bufi Family as part of the storytelling project that aims to spark hope and inspiration though books, reading and writing.

value of reading and education, were among those deservingly honored—the Bacudios of Malate, Manila, the Bufis of Taguig City, the Mansings of Negros Oriental and the Manuels of Cagayan Province.

It could be said that the sharing of knowledge and education was the order of the evening, as the inspiring stories of hope that emanated from these families touched the hearts not only of the JFVA Board of Judges, but everyone involved and present during the awards night.

Bacudio Family The Dagdag Dunong Project of the Bacudio family came into fruition in 2016. Through this, the family’s garage took the form of a neighborhood library and reading room for children.

The facility, now known as the Dagdag Dunong Learning Center, proudly contains over 2,000 books ranging from children’s titles, encyclopedias, reference materials, religion, and history. They have ventured beyond Metro Manila, providing libraries and other material donations to communities in Mindoro, specifically to the Mangyan Tribe. They have also provided free educational trips to museums, zoos, and parks. Currently, the family has started building its second learning center, in Baco, Mindoro.

Bufi Family Similarly, Rey and Grace Bufi have taken upon themselves the challenge of harnessing storytelling to spark hope and inspiration in the face of challenges, while giving kids enjoyable experiences through books. Thus, The Storytelling Project was born. One of the key components of this project is the 3-phase core program, where children are taught to develop reading habits. Incorporated in the program is Little Helpers, an activ-

Health...

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agency has voluminous awareness campaigns that is slated for each month for each type of cancer, partnerships with the DepEd, CHED, DOLE and the Civil Service Commission and goals such as reducing premature mortality from cancer by 25%, reduction of risk factors for cancer such as the harmful use of alcohol, physical inactivity and tobacco use, access to vaccination for HPV and Hepatitis B, and access to selected cancer screening.

Last would be the National Dengue Control Program. Before we go on with this topic, some people mistake Dengue and Malaria as one and the same. Dengue and Malaria are two different strains. Dengue is caused by viral infection, while Malaria is caused by Plasmodium parasite and ma-

Mansing Family Over at Negros Oriental, the Mansing family has been actively engaged in school outreach programs led by the Book for Kids Project, which was started as a response to DepEd’s Brigada Eskwela. Seeing the positivity of education and its long-term impact, the project is focused on donating children’s books to public schools, especially those located in remote areas around their community. With two disabled family members, the Mansings also provide motivational talks that promote disability awareness and anti-bullying inclusive education.

Manuel Family With a former scholar and teacher as the Manuel family patriarch, it’s not surprising that John Mauro, together with his family, would start I-Saved (Saving Vulnerable, Education and Dreams), which helps kids from the Aeta community and ‘severely wasted students’ by providing meaningful literacy and tutorial programs. They’ve also spearheaded feeding programs that seek to address the problem of hunger, while mounting seminars on proper hygiene— initiatives that help children perform better in school. Already, I-Saved has helped 320 student beneficiaries from the Aeta Community and severely wasted students from five chosen schools in Cagayan.

Indeed, the advocacies, initiatives, and stories of the Bacudio, Bufi, Mansing, and Manuel families serve as true inspirations as they embody the spirit that has driven the Jollibee Family Values Awards—honoring those who exemplify positive Filipino family values such as generosity and compassion—proving to all that literacy can indeed be a powerful bridge from misery to hope.

larial mosquito is active between dusk and dawn while the dengue carrying mosquito is active during the day time. Remember that 4S acronym? S-earch and Destroy, Seek Early Consultation, S-elf Protection Measures, S-ay Yes to fogging during outbreaks. Going back, this program aims to reduce the burden of dengue disease and reduce morbidity rate by 25% come 2022 and conduct lab-based surveillance and virus surveillance hand-in-hand with the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine’s Virology Department, Case Management and Diagnosis such as Dengue Clinical Management Guidelines training for hospitals, Integrated Vector Management such as distributing Insecticide Treated Screens or ITS to schools as its control strategy for dengue and continuous distribution of larvicides and adulticides to LGUs to combat the said outbreak.

Stay healthy and be well.

PLDT Group aligns 2020 CSR programs with UN SDGs

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HROUGHOUT its 91-year history, the Philippines leading digital services provider PLDT has worked tirelessly to instill a sense of belongingness among Filipinos. From making the first domestic phone call possible, to being the first to connect the Philippines to the world via the Internet, and to revolutionizing mobile connectivity, PLDT has always recognized its influence on the way Filipinos communicate and on Philippine society as a whole.

As 2020 begins, the group continues to build on its corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs that play a pivotal role in helping the country attain the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) in four key areas: education, livelihood, innovation, and environment.

EDUCATION With a strong emphasis on digital literacy, Education continues to be the flagship CSR program of the PLDT Group.

Gabay Guro provides teachers with scholarships, livelihood programs, connectivity and computerization, housing and educational facilities, training and innovation, and annual tribute events for teachers. Now on its 12th year, the program has trained over 60,000 teachers and granted 1,770 scholarships to date.

PLDT Infoteach reaches out to high school students, primary to secondary level teachers, and out-of-school youths through digital literacy trainings. Since its inception in 2004, the initiative has produced over 32,000 program graduates.

Wireless services subsidiary Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) has the School-in-

a-Bag program, which bridges the so-called ‘digital divide’ by providing portable digital classrooms and trainings for remote and underserved learning communities. The flagship #LearnSmart initiative of the company's Public Affairs Group has deployed over 200 technology packages, trained more than 2,000 teachers, and reached over 60,000 students to-date.

For tertiary level learners, Smart empowers colleges and universities to produce industry-ready engineering and IT graduates through the Smart Wireless Engineering Education Program or SWEEP. This internationally-recognized program holds the annual SWEEP Awards, which presents budding technopreneurs with a platform to develop innovative applications. Now on its 19th year, the program has trained more than 36,000 engineering and IT students and teachers. Over 1,000 SWEEP trainees have been directly hired under Smart's technology group.

LIVELIHOOD With the UN’s goal for decent work and economic growth, the PLDT Group also strives to promote sustainable livelihood.

PLDT-Smart’s Ka-Partner Rewards Program gives incentives to the company’s electronic or e-load sellers to help them grow their business and enhance their livelihood. The sales team-led project has produced 19 retailers-turned-millionaires as of end-2019.

Under PLDT Community Relations and in partnership with Sew Mates of the Davaobased Philippine Eagle Foundation Conservation Program, selected indigenous women from partner communities in Mindanao were trained to make Philippine Eagle plush toys. Similarly, trainings with women of the Rural Workers Muladbucad Pequeno Association were also conducted to produce PLDT Ecobags and start businesses through a partnership with PBSP and the Coalition for Bicol Development.

A joint project with the Department of Agriculture—Agricultural Training Institute (DA-ATI) and Probe Media Foundation, Smart’s Digital Farmers Program aims to expedite the agriculture sector's adoption and use of innovative means

of farming. These include the use of drones, analytics, precision farming, artificial intelligence or A.I., climate and weather monitoring I.T. solutions, digital apps, e-money, blockchain, and other multi-layer platforms.

Smart has implemented DFP 101 trainings in 14 areas nationwide within its first 5 months.

INNOVATION The UN deems Innovation as among the crucial factors to achieving sustainable development.

LearnSmart Literacy Apps are mobile applications developed in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) regional offices, and academic institutions nationwide. To date, Smart has launched 10 literacy applications featuring alphabet and number exercises, short stories, songs, and games all in the mother tongue. These apps are Bahay Kubo (Filipino), Kaalam (Cebuano), Ta’allam and Tahderiyyah (Arabic), Matisalug (Matigsalug indigenous peoples Tribe of Davao and Bukidnon), Kaaram (Waray), Katao (Inabaknon), Singsing (Kapampangan), Sanut (Ilokano), and Gnare Blaan (Blaan).

Connected Mangroves, a joint initiative of Smart and network vendor Ericsson, helps in environmental conservation by using Internet of Things or IoT solutions. These include attaching electronic sensors onto

mangrove plants, which can detect and record information vital to the tree formation, such as temperature, water salinity, and other factors that may be hazardous to its condition. The information is then uploaded to an online dashboard, which may be accessed by authorities and stakeholders.

Among Smart’s major disaster preparedness and response initiatives is Nokia Saving Lives (NSL), a program with the com Philippine Red Cross that provides communication and technical assistance to emergency response teams. NSL includes drones with cameras and speakers that di can capture real-time information on disaster areas. They can also carry items such as first aid kits.

ENVIRONMENT Under the UN’s LIFE ON LAND SDG, companies such as PLDT are encouraged to help care for the planet.

Recent major tree-planting activities include PLDT Telepuno, where 900 trees were planted in celebration of PLDT’s 90th anniversary, at the Central Cebu Protected Landscape. plant In 2019, Smart led a nationwide tree plantTy ing activity on the 10th anniversary of Typhoon Ondoy. The company has been planting trees since 2004 to offset its greenhouse gas emissions from cellsite operations.

A homegrown innovation created by PLDT-Smart employees, the #SmartPlanet phone recycling device presents a proper way of disposing discarded mobile devices to avoid harmful effects of electronic waste on health and the environment.

With electronic sensors, the bin sends out e-load in exchange for used phones, chargers, and tablets. Similarly, #SmartPlanet offers a plastic bottle counterpart to the said device, with bottle-recycling bins deployed to different Smart events, such as festivals.

The PLDT Group’s CSR programs are diverse, and the challenges are daunting, but they all start with one small step. To know more about how you can be part of PLDT and Smart’s CSR activities, send an email to media@pldt.com.ph or publicaffairs@ smart.com.ph.

Smart brings you the most exquisite Filipino contemporary art at ALT Philippines 2020

A

FTER a multitude of reimagined experiences it has brought to its customers, Smart Signature now dares consumers to reimagine the way they see local art. Introducing ALT Philippines 2020, a firstof-its-kind collaborative project among 10 galleries in Manila that aims to not only showcase contemporary Filipino art, but also to reframe the notion of the art show itself.

The landmark art event, which will be held at the SMX Convention Center at SM Aura on February 13 to 16, brings together galleries Artinformal, Blanc, Finale Art File, Galleria Duemi-

la, MO_Space, The Drawing Room, Underground, Vinyl on Vinyl, West Gallery, and 1335 Mabini. This epic collaboration will result in a showcase of over 150 leading contem-

porary Filipino artists, in a groundbreaking and dynamic way that involves the immersion of viewers and the engagement of artists and professionals.

“We are truly excited to be part of this momentous event in the local art scene. This is just one of the many ways we provide meaningful connections by bringing subscribers closer to their passions,” said Smart President Alfred S. Panlilio. “Through this, we enable our subscribers to live the life they want, including the kind of life fueled by art.”

Amongst the anticipated highlights at ALT Philippines 2020, is the digital art wall that will be brought to life by artist Derek Tumala. “Derek’s work in collaboration with Smart is a coming together of art and technology. His “Pure Impermanence” 10-channel video in portrait orientation mirrors how we view images on our mobile phones. It represents the endless cycle of experience and image-making through a network of fleeting connections,” according to a statement released by ALT Philippines 2020.

REIMAGINE THE WAY YOU SEE ART Smart subscribers will have the opportunity to freely reimagine the way they see art, as they can avail of exclusive passes to ALT Philippines 2020 as part of the elevated customer experience that Smart provides its valued customers.

With Smart Signature Plans, subscribers can also enjoy the best postpaid and overall experience.

Smart Signature affords for its subscribers the capacity to live the life they want because their passions are supported by Smart Signature's bigger data allocation and Smart LTE, the undisputed fastest mobile network in the country, as awarded by third-party organizations such as

Ookla, OpenSignal, Tutela, and P3 in their respective crowdsource-based studies on mobile internet services in the Philippines.

But Smart doesn’t stop with data and network speed that customers deserve. Smart also serves perks and privileges to its subscribers, in this case, the levelled-up Signature lifestyle that allows loyal customers to pursue their love for art by getting free tickets and ticket discounts to ALT 2020 Philippines.

To score tickets and discounts to ALT 2020, Smart Postpaid subscribers may submit their entries by an-

swering the question, “What are you looking forward to the most at ALT 2020?” Just go to the comment’s section of Smart’s ALT 2020 ticket giveaway post on Facebook and include the hashtag #SmartALTPH2020.

For more levelled-up love-for-art experiences, follow Smart on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SmartCommunications or @ReimaginePH on Instagram. Keep tabs on the hashtags #Reimagine and #SmartALTPH2020 for more updates as well as ALT Philippines on social media at Alt Philippines on Facebook and @ altphilippines on Instagram.

BPI: Banking on sustainability Responding to the call for BAYANihan recently, BPI employee-volunteers gathered for the repacking of relief goods for families affected by the recent Taal volcano eruption.

By Paul Duran

I

T WAS paradise on earth. With seven white sand beaches, three awe-inspiring water-falls, two picturesque saltwater lakes, and extensive coral reefs, many would like to live there.

But until last year, some tourists were still reluctant to visit. With 10-hour

on financial inclusion and wellness (for the benefit of underserved segments and clients who want to grow and protect their assets), scaling up enterprises (for enterprises, who want to bring their businesses to the next level), and sustainable development financing (for sustainable development projects.)

PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER ability?

BPI, through the launch of its SDF It started a few years ago with institutional investors carrying scorecards for program in November last year, has

Through its Tech-Voc program, BPI Foundation helps MSME’s in providing basic financial management trainings to unemployed individuals in various communities to expand opportunities for the underemployed and unemployed sectors and individuals.

blackouts everyday, the island of Tablas in Romblon was largely undeveloped and under-appreciated.

Fortunately, the blackouts finally ended when, after a long wait, Sunwest Water and Electric Co. (SUWECO), through its subsidiary, Suwesco Tablas Electric Corporation (STEC) tapped the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) to partly finance the biggest solar off-grid facility in the country on the island.

STEC’s 10-year P360-million loan for its 7.5 megawatt solar hybrid off-grid power plant further expanded BPI’s loan portfolio for renewable energy.

This is just one of the many projects that help the country become more sustainable.

For BPI, this focus on sustainability has been further strengthened by four events in 2019; the establishment of its Green Finance Framework in June, the Swiss franc-de-nominated ASEAN Green Bond in August, the US-dollar-green bond in September, and the launch of the bank’s Sustainable Development Finance program in November.

All these demonstrate a shifting and deepening focus on sustainability, on going beyond financing projects that only have a clear economic benefit. More than economic progress, BPI is fueling a more sustainable kind of growth that considers the impact on the environment and the responsible use of natural resources.

But why this focus now on sustain-

rating local banks on how they contribute to a sustainable world. It was deliberate and it became de rigueur. BPI, which has long had its sustainability initiative, began to take a closer look.

consolidated its financing activities for renewable energy, energy efficiency, climate resilience, and sustainable agriculture in response to the increasing need for creating sustainable businesses across all industries.

For the Bank, sustainability is now an essential part of the discussions in its credit committee, where a company’s credit is assessed based on how sustainable they are, and in how BPI assesses projects that affect the renewable energy mix in its loan portfolio.

BPI is ready to include more green projects that will result in a double benefit: less carbon emissions and sustainable business profit.

Financing a green project is no longer considered charitable work or part of corporate social responsibility, but an investment with a strong business case for both financial and environmental impact, reflecting the bank’s commitment towards sustainability.

TRACKING ESG All these activities are reported by the Sustainability Office (SO), which ensures the quarterly and annual monitoring and analysis of Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) data as well as contributions to the UN SDGs mentioned above.

The SO also oversees sustainability employee engagement and initiating conversations on innovation with regard to sustainability. It helps create a culture of sustainability in the employees through learning sessions and exposure trips that open minds to sustainable living and business practices. There are regular fairs, where employees can bring their recyclables—used paper, plastics, glass bottles, metal cans, electronic waste, etc.

Other initiatives include the installation of LED lights and inverter-type air-conditioning units to reduce energy consumption.

Efficient use of water and carbon emissions are also closely monitored tominimize impact to the environment. Soon, the old head office building of BPI will be torn down to give way to a new high-tech, environmentally friendly edifice.

Complementing all these are the programs under the BPI Foundation, which has its own projects that contribute to sustainability by catering to the underserved segments of society.

BPI Foundation focuses on programs that create a culture of financial wellness and sustainable positive social change. BPI Sinag, an annual competition for social enterprises, is one of the Foundation’s flagship projects. It seeks to encourage and support businesses that focus on the triple bottomline: people, planet, and profit.

The Foundation has programs for financial literacy, starting with elemen-

tary and high school students as well as teachers who benefit from sessions on financial wellness, entrepreneurship, and integrating lessons on finance in classroom teaching.

The foundation also has specific projects that look after environmental sustainability. There is the Mindanao reforestation, which is committed to rehabilitate 100 hectares of denuded watershed in the Lanao del Sur mountain range, and the Business Risk Assessment and Management of Climate Change impact study, which assesses the environmental risks of key cities all over the country. By looking at potential risks that climate brings to the identified cities—which include Baguio, Batangas, Iloilo, Cebu, Davao, General Santos, and others—BPI helps businesses and government agencies plan for the future. The study covers an extensive analysis of factors that include climate exposure, socio-economic sensitivity, and adaptive capacity, with scenarios and an overall assessment of each city.

Another project is the Climate-Proofing Agricultural Landscapes (AgriClima) together with WWF-Philippines. It seeks to implement a landscape approach to managing the natural capital of the sugarcane ecosystems in Negros Occidental.

SUSTAINABILITY THROUGH VOLUNTEERISM BPI also empowers its employees to create need-based volunteer programs, a vital component of the bank’s performance on ESG indicators.

Recently, through BPI Foundation, employee volunteers were activated to support the “BAYANihan para sa Taal” program to distribute relief goods to some 3,000 individuals, who were displaced by the ash spewed by the Taal Volcano. It is a holistic program providing relief sending reminders on disaster preparedness, and giving assistance for recovery. Part of the program was an employee-led fund drive to raise at least P1 million until February 7, 2020, wherein proceeds raised will be matched by BPI Foundation.

With the whole gamut of sustainability projects and initiatives in place, clearly, BPI is banking on sustainability.

There’s a long way to go. A challenge remains finding the right mix of financing for the nation’s progress and financing for sustainability.

It’s not going to be easy, but for the sustainability of our nation, it’s all worth it.

SUSTAINABILITY A BUSINESS IMPERATIVE It was then that the Bank fully realized the wisdom of sustainability. It meant more profits and greater efficieny in the use of resources for clients, leading to sustainable businesses that will be a boon to the environment and generations to come.

Sustainability, which used to be on the sidelines for BPI, has become front and center in every aspect of the Bank’s business. With the Bank’s chairman, Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala, as a corporate champion of the UN sustainable development goals (SDGs), the focus on sustainabilty trickled down the whole organization.

BPI now contributes to 12 SDGs: 1.) No poverty, 2.) Zero hunger, 3.) Good health and well-being, 4.) Quality Education, 5.)

Clean water and sanitation, 6.) Affordable and clean energy, 7.) Decent work and economic growth, 8.) Industry innovation and infrastracture, 9.) Reduced inequalities, 10.) Sustainable cities and communities, 11.) Responsible consumption and BPI Foundation’s “Show Me, Teach Me”, has a capacity-building program that empowers entrepreneurs to be more globally production, and 12.) Climate action.

Under the BPI’s Sustainability Strat- competitive through trainings for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) that incorporates business discipline, entreegy Framework, value creation centers preneurship, and financial management.

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Filipino youth on the RISE F

OR 73 years, the Development Bank of the Philippines has played a pivotal role in funding the evolving development needs of the country.

The Bank has supported not only infrastructure development, but human development as well.

As a developmental funding institution, DBP is committed to broadening not only financing options and investment opportunities but to also extending financial assistance to support government reforms and priority initiatives.

Carrying on with its commitment to promote the welfare of Filipinos particularly the underprivileged and undereducated, DBP signed a memorandum of agreement with 19 partner-schools across the archipelago for the implementation of the second phase of the DBP Resources for Inclusive and Sustainable Education (DBP RISE) program.

The DBP RISE scholarship program is financed by a P500-million seed fund, and targets underprivileged but deserving high school graduates who will specialize in courses that are geared towards the national government’s “Build, Build, Build!” infrastructure program including: engineering, architecture, real estate management, accountancy, education, agriculture and forestry, allied medical courses, hospitality, and information technology.

“DBP RISE is a testament to DBP’s belief that every Filipino is capable of achievements that will lead to developmental feats,” said DBP Presi-

dent and Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel G. Herbosa. “Through the program, DBP hopes to be able to improve not only the lives of the scholars but to contribute in their transformation as productive members of society that would share in the advocacy of advancing country-wide growth.”

The program was launched as an off-shoot of the Bank’s long-standing CSR flagship program—the DBP Endowment for Education Program (DEEP)—which is nearing its completion after more than a decade of empowering youth. Since its inception in 2008, DEEP has supported the studies of 3,613 scholars coming from 39 partner institutions from all over the country, and has already produced 3,375 graduates with 94% now gainfully employed.

“Taking into consideration the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goal indicators that would contribute to the full implementation of the Philippine Development Plan

Some of the first batch of DBP Resources for Inclusive and Sustainable Education (DBP RISE) scholars are shown during the DBP RISE Orientation Program. Joining the scholars are DBP CSR Head/Senior Manager Merly J. Nonoy (seated, center), DBP RISE Program Coordinator Ehmczee Sancha (seated, extreme right) together with the Our Lady of Triumph Institute of Technology representativesChris Junn S. Puelas, Lucile A. Maglasang, and Engr. Galileo A. Maglasang (seated, from left to right, respectively).

(PDP) 2017-2022, we’ve re-calibrated and re-designed DEEP, and reintroduced the program in 2018 with greater focus on priority courses such as allied medicine and infrastructure development in support of the government’s national build-up program,” Herbosa added.

Through its creative collaboration with selected partner-schools,

DBP aims to support the education of 2,500 scholars by the end of DBP RISE’s run in 2023, thereby responding to the growing demand for Filipino professionals both in the local and international global markets.

“To date, the Bank has already released P40.44-million to cover the financial requirements of DBP

RISE scholars—including tuition, board and lodging expenses, living allowance, cost of apprenticeship, residency training, and expenses during review for board exams—which should all be adequately addressed in order that students may focus on staying fit and competitive in their respective academic endeavors,” said Herbosa.

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Safer environment, better health

A thick fog covering Manila’s horizon

By Paul David L. Gelario

T

HE Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Department of Health are optimistic that the Health and Pollution Action Plan will build a safer and healthier environment as it compliments the National Environmental Health Action Plan of 2017-2022.

HPAP is supported by a triad of worldwide organizations, such as United Nations Industrial Develop-

ment Organization, European Commission, and the World Health Organization. Its aim is to outline the specific

situational analysis and action plans of NEHAP. NEHAP focuses on seven thematic areas primarily water supply, air quality, solid waste management, chemical safety, food safety, occupational health, and climate change. The complementary HPAP focuses on sector areas such as outdoor air pollution, wastewater and sanitation, occupational exposure, indoor air pollution, and soil pollution.

MITIGATING OUTDOOR AIR POLLUTION Data released by the National Air Quality Status Report for 2008-2015, showed outdoor pollution has caused about 2,000 premature deaths, with 9,000 suffering from chronic bronchitis.

In 2009, it was reported that a million people were greatly affected with about 15,000 prematurely dying, due

to outdoor air pollution in the country.

It was reported that 55 percent of Filipinos use traditional cooking fuels and technologies that were proven to be detrimental to health. Smoke from solid fuels such as wood, dung, crop, waste, or coal in poorly ventilated homes contains harmful compounds such as particulate matter, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, and sulfur oxide. The burning of solid fuels contributed to 4.3 million premature deaths globally.

To address outdoor air pollution, DENR has set up 51 real-time ambient air quality monitoring systems nationwide. Hazardous gas compounds such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, ozone, carbon monoxide, and lead will then be monitored.

All new vehicles will be evaluated for compliance on emission standards in order to obtain a Certificate of Conformity before being introduced to the market.

DENR also plans to designate a responsible agency assigned solely for indoor pollution. Government agencies such as the Department of Health and the Department of Interior and Local Government also develop household standards for indoor pollution.

With half of the population using traditional cooking fuels, a massive information campaign is planned to inform the community about the hazards of biomass burning regarding indoor air quality. This campaign will include the media or electronic display boards of the Manila Metropolitan Development Authority.

ADDRESSING WASTEWATER AND SANITATION DENR stated that a significant portion of the country’s surface waters and groundwaters are contaminated due to low levels of wastewater treatment and improper sewage management. Rural areas were most vulnerable with tropical diseases such as Schistosomiasis and Lymphatic Filariasis becoming

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SM Foundation provides free medical services to students in Zamboanga COMMITTED to help the Filipino learners achieve their fullest potential, SM Foundation, Inc. (SMFI) complemented its recent new school building turnover in Zamboanga Central School-SPED Center with a two-day medical mission which targeted the more than 620 malnourished schoolchildren, including their parents and siblings.

According to a UNICEF study, “The State of the World’s Children: Children, Food and Nutrition,” Filipino children are increasingly suffering from poor diet, inadequate nutrition, and food systems—that one in three Filipino children under five years old have stunted growth, while roughly 7 per cent of children are too thin for their height. In addition to this, UNICEF found out that a tenth of Filipino adolescents are now overweight.

More so, the 8th National Nutrition Survey revealed that the highest prevalence of underweight, stunting and wasting are among those in the rural areas.

The Zamboanga Peninsula was among the top three regions with the highest prevalence for stunting.

In relation to these challenges on malnutrition, SM Foundation believes that the said findings play a vital role in the holistic development of the learners, and that by executing various health and wellness program for students in their adopted schools will help battle this dilemma.

Student-beneficiaries underwent medical tests, including x-ray, to determine the cause of their malnutrition. Multivitamins and full medication were given afterwards. Lectures and demonstrations on proper food nutrition were also conducted. The progress of the schoolchildren will be monitored for a period of 6-9 months.

The Zamboanga Central School-SPED Center is a beneficiary of a two-story, four- classroom school building from SM Prime, through SM Foundation.

The building is complete with essential school facilities and equipment like the Home Economics Room and a Science Laboratory Room.

Safer...

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widespread in many of the poorest provinces.

The country now has two frameworks, namely the National Sustainable Sanitation Plan and the Philippine Sustainable Sanitation Roadmap, which aim to solve sanitation challenges from ending open defecation, treating sewage markets, agriculture, industry, and other water pollutants.

About 50 percent of the national government cost-share is allocated for sewage projects for all cities and first-class municipalities.

PROTECTING WORKERS FROM WORK-RELATED ILLNESSES Occupational exposure is focused on the protection of workers from work-related illnesses, where blue-collar workers are most vulnerable.

In a study in the industrial sector, workers in nine cement plants were exposed to heat, noise and dust. The semiconductor manufacturing industry, based on DENR’s study, reported 399 female workers of having abnormal health effects such as abortion and ectopic pregnancy.

The Occupational Safety and Health Center (OSHC) is mandated to prevent and reduce work-related injuries, deaths, and effectively implement occupational health.

OSHC has provided training for the private and public sectors, while also providing technical assistance and services on occupational safety and health. Programs regarding chemical safety management such as fundamentals of industrial hygiene, work environment measurement, ventilation, chemical safety, and globally harmonized system of labeling chemicals were offered to the workers.

NEHAP was first published in 2005 under the watchful eye of the Inter-Agency Committee on Environmental Health.

Since then it underwent revisions until its latest in 2018.

Students of Zamboanga Central School-SPED Center availed of the free medical services brought by SM Foundation.

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Unilab Foundation continues doing well in doing good

By Paul David L. Gelario THE largest pharmaceutical company in the Philippines consistently upholds its commitment to sustain a healthier Filipino community with the Unilab Foundation.

Since 2011, Unilab Foundation has made it a top priority to make health and education within reach for communities that desperately need them.

CELEBRATING CHILDREN’S EVENTS IN STYLE One of the foundation’s first programs is Play It Forward. Launched in 2012, that first offered development and therapy for children afflicted by natural calamities. Since then, it expanded further by celebrating children’s months or days so they can enjoy their childhood.

During the official launch of Philippine Play Coalition at Quezon City Memorial Circle where Unilab Foundation is a steering committee

Last November 20, it celebrated World Children’s Day with an event called ‘Kiddielympics,’ where 30 to 40 children played Filipino-inspired games at the Fe Del Mundo Medical Center in Quezon City.

Then on November 22, it commemorated National Children’s Month and National Play Advocacy Week at the Philippine Heart Center’s PediaCare by organizing a party. At the last day of the National Play Advocacy Week, PIF made a joint activity celebration called “Bata, Kasali Ka” with the Council For the Welfare of Children, National Youth Commission, World Vision, Museo Pambata along with other National Steering Committee on Children’s Rights Advocacy (NSC-CRA).

GIVING NEW HOPE TO PWDS Formerly Project Inclusion, the Project Inclusion Network aims to provide employment opportunities to persons with disabilities (PWDs). One of its core beliefs is that if a person with disabilities when given proper support and the right condition can thrive in the workplace. It has now over 137 partner organizations ranging from government, advocacy groups, and academe sectors.

Since its launch in 2013, some 1,809 people with disabilities were given the opportunity to work from more comprehensive backgrounds including ice cream shops, corporations, and social enterprises.

IDEAS POSITIVE 10TH ANNIVERSARY The 10th anniversary of Ideas Positive invited Sangguniang Kabataan Councils who exhibit passion, creativity, and innovation about health to join the competition. The contest received a total of 144 entries and then after a twotier screening process, about 31 made it to the live screening round.

Last December 20, 10 finalists hailing from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao were announced. The top 10 finalists with their project names and teams are as follows: Project Daloy by the Water Mech Team from Bataan, Project Tuklas by team Life Pals from Sultan Kudarat, Project Cli+Med by team Cli+Med from Leyte, Vaccination Alternative Classrom Learning Activities by team Backto-Vacc champions from Nueva Ecija, Project Iqrah by team 3i from Tawi-Tawi, MENtalk Movement by team BSYO from Rizal, Project KaiSAFEpan by team Red Cats from Camarines Norte, Project Saguna by team Hikma from Cotabato, Project Hello Yosi, Goodbye by team Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat from Bataan, and Project Makakaya by team Gabay from Aklan.

HEADS UP PH LAUNCHES PHILIPPINE PLAY COALITION Heads Up PH celebrated Children’s Month last November to promote play as a children’s right. It was held at Quezon City Memorial Circle where 300 Filipinos of all ages flew hundreds of paper planes to commemorate the launch of Philippine Play Coalition. About 198 partners from public, private, and government sector joined the launch like Council for the Welfare of Children, World Vision Development Foundation, Unilab Foundation, Unang Hakbang Foundation, Educo Philippines, Kythe Foundation, and Tukod Foundation.

Champions... leadership, creativity in teaching, environment and climate change awareness among others.

To promote an innovative mindset for teachers, school leaders, and staff, PLDT Gabay Guro also links partner schools to communities and industries through a culture of innovation. This is to have an endless possibility in learning, teaching, community building, and education stakeholder development opportunities like workshops, interactive seminars, senseshops and talkshops.

PLDT Gabay Guro has also teamed up with various organizations, including companies within the PLDT Group, to improve the quality of life of teachers and their families by launching livelihood programs for them.

To aid deserving but financially challenged students, PLDT Gabay Guro has thousands of scholars from various state colleges and universities nationwide, many of whom graduated with honors.

It has also donated numerous computers and broadband internet connections to partner schools as part of its seven pillars.

PLDT Gabay Guro has also built and donated classrooms nationwide, particularly in typhoon-hit areas.

3. Metrobank‘s Scholarship Program Among the frontrunners in the CSR world is Metrobank Foundation, Inc. (MBFI), the corporate social responsibility arm of the Metrobank Group. Established in 1979 by Dr. George S.K. Ty, MBFI runs flagship projects which include the Metrobank Scholarship Program (MSP) which began in 1995, aimed at providing educational opportunities to academically gifted but financially challenged students.

MBFI provides a four-year scholarship to students enrolled in accountancy, business management, and education courses; two-year scholarship grants to 141 students majoring in English, Science or Math; a special education assistance package to qualified graduating students in selected Level II or III accredited schools all over the country.

The Foundation also established the Share-A-Gift-Education (SAGE) Program, which supported elementary and high school FilipinoChinese students enrolled in 95 schools accredited by the Association of Filipino-Chinese Schools.

Metrobank has also granted scholarships to deserving students from Adamson University, Don Bosco Technical College-Mandaluyong, Technological University of the Philippines-Manila, University of the East-Manila, University of Santo Tomas, University of the PhilippinesDiliman, and Central Philippine University in Iloilo. This was made possible in partnership with other companies and organizations.

Furthermore, MBFI has teamed up with Mathematics Teachers Association of the Philippines (MTAP) and the Department of Education (DepEd) to conduct the prestigious Metrobank-MTAPDepEd Math Challenge (MMC).

MMC provides a venue for Filipino students to hone their mathematical skills in an atmosphere of friendly competition.

For several years, it has produced national winners who get to compete in international tilts. As of writing, MMC is the longest running math competition in the country with more than half a million students participating in the nationwide elimination rounds yearly, attracting students from both private and public schools.

Because of their efforts in supporting education, these companies have successfully branded itself as giants in corporate philanthropy.

They have also set a good example for other companies to emulate, by taking part in nation-building.

“He certainly doesn’t practise his precepts, but I supposed the Patron meant that if you give a man a fish he is hungry again in an hour. If you teach him to catch a fish you do him a good turn.”

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PLDT Gabay Guro chairman Chaye Cabal-Revilla (leftmost) with (from left) Noelle Aujero, head of Marketing of Foton; Miriam Ochoa, chief marketing officer of Inlife Sheros and John Yanez.

‘‘

It’s really what you do with the opportunity given to you.

God is not sleeping at all.

There are many people who are very much interested in making most of those dreams come true, but it is really up to them to persevere and to do things”—Chito Macapagal, member of the Board of Trustees, SM Foundation Inc.

Uplifting lives through SM’s Social Good Programs

SM Foundation scholars

By Jobe Regondola Garcia

A

S SM’s socio-civic arm, SM Foundation, Inc. (SMFI) celebrates its 37th year, its main focus would be the total education program for both college and technical-vocational including its “Pillar for Change” school building program. The social good programs of SMFI believes that poverty is the biggest hindrance to many young people in the Philippines, so in response to this, SM Foundation, Inc. is poised to address this issue in the education sector by providing quality education within one’s reach for deserving and qualified students. It has also built around 100 schools since 2002 through the “Adopt-A-School Building” program by the Department of Education (DepEd) in order to address the school building shortage in the country.

Living by what the founder said, “We should help others. We must also do something to help others in society.

I am pleased that SMFI is able to do so many civic projects.” It is evident that Tatang Henry Sy’s passion and dedication to help other people has already been in place since the beginning that helped solidify SMFI’s goal with regards to quality education.

They’ve recently turned over their newest school building project in

access to quality education by giving them an environment conducive to learning, as well as scholarships.”

Integrating gender sensitivity in the foundation’s programs

“For SMFI’s Social Good Programs, we always try to integrate gender sensitive components that address the needs of all of our stakeholders. For us, gender equality is not focused only on women. It is promoting the rights

life. Acknowledging the challenges that shape a woman’s experience is critical in implementing effective gender-sensitive CSR programs. Although the concept is complex and challenging to navigate, we believe that by improving gender equality, we improve the social good experience for all of our stakeholders.

By applying gender sensitive components in our social good programs, we are not limited in transforming the lives of women and girls in our country. We are also able to promote sustainable development for all,” Chan added.

Pillars of Change Program

Daet which is complete with important amenities like the school clinic, a guidance office, literacy and numeracy corner (pagbasa at pagbilang) which is a thrust of DepEd this year, and not to mention a provision for toilets in every classroom, PWD toilets with a ramp and left-handed armchairs.

According to Linda Atayde, Executive Director for Education Programs of SMFI, this effort of providing school buildings in grassroots communities helps alleviate the school building and classroom shortage in the country. “We are taking our lead from Tatang. He wanted to make sure that students have

and needs of both sexes. For example, our restrooms in our school buildings are located inside the classroom. Aside from promoting basic hygiene to students, this strategy is in consideration to young girls that have menstruation, specially those who are in their puberty. And these restrooms are “all gender” restrooms. It benefits a range of stakeholders, with or without special needs,” said Victor Persius Chan, AVP for Corporate Affairs of SM Investments Corp.

“CSR can play an important role in advancing gender equality when it is designed for the complexities of real

Chito Macapagal, member of the Board of Trustees, explained the essence of one of the core educational programs of the foundation.

“It is not our intention to take over or replace what the government can actually do within these aspects. What you only want to do is to help and support. If you would look at our assets and our resources, it would be very pale compared to the government, but put together the rest of like-minded companies and private citizens, you can actually come up with something considerable. So I think it is the right thing to do.”

Macapagal believes that Corporate Social Responsibility is important and is hand-in-hand with personal, social responsibility that a company would stimulate and support people doing their own social responsibilities and would eventually end up collectively being a socially responsible company. He underscores that it is only a matter of being able to create an atmosphere and the opportunities, such as employee engagement.

Importance of CSR

When asked on how to inspire companies to venture on CSR-related activities: “The good thing there is that, first of all, companies also have to realize that we have a lot of terms that we are now using for doing social good. That is the reason why we

would just simplify that kind of word.

Before then, we all know of the word philanthropy as simple giving. Personal philanthropy, corporate philanthropy and of course, CSR, which basically is a counterpart for a nonindividual, for a corporation. You’ve also heard of CSV, Creating Shared Value, basically in essence is saying, “If I do something and what I do is something that I am rather competent and there is a community need and that community need is also our expertise, point of intersection is exactly a shared value.” Put together all these three things, are all meant for doing social good. If you add personal social responsibility, then so much the better. The question is what can we do in the foundation? What we can do is to

believe that it is not competing with any other foundation on what we do, but it is also believing that pushing the envelope means working harder, innovating on things that we can do better on our chosen area of activity.

It is not competition. It is more of taking action so that more people can actually do the same thing. My only advice to companies that do social good is to choose an area. It does not have to be many. And with the 17 Sustainable Goals of the UN, choose what is actually your ethos. Choose where your company can be of help. If it is only going to be one, I am sure that you are going to be doing the best thing you can on one.

“It’s really what you do with the opportunity given to you. God is not sleeping at all. There are many people who are very much interested in making most of those dreams come true, but it is really up to them to persevere and to do things that will enable them to reach their dreams and change their lives as well as that of their families,” said Macapagal.

Currently, SM Foundation, Inc. already has a total of more than 3,500 college scholar-graduates and around 1,200 current college scholars for school year 2019-2020. It also has a scholarship for Technical-Vocational (Tech-Voc) courses with almost 3,200 graduates (2,000 tech-voc scholars graduating this year).

To know more about their Social Good programs, you can visit their social media accounts @SMFoundationInc (facebook, twitter, Instagram and YouTube). You can also visit their website at www.smfoundation.org.

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Environmental sustainability essential to business

D

RIVING growth, but still keeping business activities in check have been the primary concern of enterprises in recent years in their promise not to compromise the environment in all their business processes.

Though it must be noted, that with the constant industrialization that comes with progress, it is particularly challenging for environmental sustainability to be on top of the agenda, but several industries have made it their priority to do just that.

From shifts in manufacturing practices and handling wastes properly to promoting green energy, corporations have realized the importance of taking care of the environment from which they gather most, if not all of their valuable natural resources, essential to their businesses.

With the constant industrialization that comes with progress, there’s no denying that environmental sustainability is particularly challenging, but an absolute necessity to address especially in these changing times.

Many companies are at the forefront of keeping the environment intact, hand-in-hand, and certainly embodying the mantra of growing their businesses beyond profit. Manila Standard is one with this movement.

For years, the broadsheet has initiated various tree-planting activities through its “Adopt-a-Tree” Program.

Building on this advocacy, it recently launched a pioneering project aimed at maintaining its values but still promoting the power of print.

In every purchase of a Manila Standard newspaper, a tree will be planted under the buyer’s name.

This project pizzazz, if vision, has pushed the Manila Standard to kickstart its #MSIntegriTree initiative recently in a momentous event that hopefully paves the way for other print partners to follow suit.

Furthermore, #MSIntegriTree is an integration of its former campaign years ago called the ‘Honor System’ and its present corporate social responsibility project ‘Adopt-a-Tree.’

Manila Standard’s OIC for Operations Annie Grefal explained the initiative: “When I started with the Manila Standard, we had a project called ‘Honor System,’ where the copies are being left in establishments, but it’s up to them if they would pay. Come to think of it, our problem is honesty.That’s why I want to resurrect the project where people can get their copies if they want to pay or not. If not, they could just read it.

“Then, the Adopt-a-Tree campaign of Manila Standard came to my mind. Why don’t we combine Adopt-a-Tree and Honesty? That’s how #MSIntegrity was born.”

Peter Paul Duran

Institutionalizing disaster preparedness

I

N the times we’re in, it pays to be prepared and resilient.

Disaster resilience is the ability of individuals, communities, organizations and states to adapt to and recover from hazards, shocks or stresses without compromising long-term prospects for development.

According to the United States Department of Health and Human Services, individual health and resilience is important for community resilience because healthy, socially connected, prepared people make for stronger communities that are better able to withstand, manage, and recover from disasters.

Moreover, community resilience is the sustained ability of a community to utilize available resources (energy, communication, transportation, food, etc.) to respond to, withstand, and recover from adverse situations (e.g. economic collapse to global catastrophic risks) With this mind, the Philippines is no stranger to natural calamities. From the world’s strongest typhoons to our particularly fortunate (or unfortunate) situation in the Pacific Ring of Fire, the country is at the mercy of the elements.

But this does not mean that people in the Philippines only rely on faith to get through any devastating “Act of God.” For this reason, companies, and even local government units with the backing of the national government, have institutionalized Disaster Preparedness in their system.

In fact, there is now a growing demand, and lobbying from our politicians for the government to push through with the proposed Department of Disaster Resilience or DDR. But, as we are celebrating the initiatives from various sectors in their social good programs, some have even taken it by heart by implementing it in their Corporate Social Responsibility Programs.

Peter Paul Duran

Globe redoubles relief efforts for Taal, partners with Rise Against Hunger

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LOBE stands by its commitment to help communities in need by once again partnering with Rise Against Hunger to provide 100 food boxes for 18,000 people affected by the recent eruption of Taal volcano.

Alongside all of the company’s disaster response initiatives since the eruption, one

hundred Ka-Globe together with the company’s senior leaders as well as celebrities Yayo Aguila and Lester Giri, shared their time and effort to help in the meal packing activity.

Although the alert status for Taal Volcano was already lowered to Level 3, many residents, especially those who live in areas within the seven-kilometer radius from the main crater, are still prohibited from returning to their homes. Thus, there is a need for continuous assistance to the families who are still in evacuation centers.

So far, Globe has conducted relief operations in 39 evacuation centers in Batangas and Cavite, benefitting 4,007 families or 20,035 individuals. It has also reached out to 546 families or 2,730 individuals in three barangays in Batangas in cooperation with Sagip Kapamilya, ABS-CBN Foundation’s emergency humanitarian assistance program.

Globe, likewise, enjoins its customers to make their Globe Rewards points more meaningful by donating them to Rise Against Hunger via the Globe Rewards app until February 15, 2020. Proceeds will augment RAH’s meal pack distribution and relief efforts for severely affected areas.

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Globe employee volunteers help create meal packs

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Planting the seeds of environmental awareness

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HERE’S no refuting the fact that trees are the source of life and whose value to Mother Earth cannot be denied.

In the face of environmental degradation and massive deforestation, instilling the importance of trees and properly caring for the environment among the young are best started early.

It’s against this pressing backdrop that fruit-bearing and native trees in different elNatalia Sali, a social worker with an innate ementary schools and forests in the province. love for the environment, took action. To- They have also planted 1,000 cropped plants gether with her family, the One Child, One and 150 trees in different elementary schools Tree movement was born. Launched under in the same area. the auspices of the Fostering Education and “Maganda ‘yung gawain dahil nagiging Environment for Development, Inc., the Sali aware na and mga bata pa at natututo nang family has been supporting environmental magtanim. Na-oorient din sa kahalagahan ng projects in Hagonoy, Bulacan to educate, en- pagtatanim. “The initiative is good as kids courage, and foster awareness on ecological become aware early on, as they are oriented preservation. on the value of planting trees,” said Leonora Alongside tree planting for students as its Robles, a teacher from Sitio Buga Elemenprimary activity, the One Child, One Tree tary School, a beneficiary of the family’s One movement also organizes and facilitates Child, One Tree Movement. events related to training and providing exNo doubt, the selfless and impactful work pertise in bio-intensive gardening as well as of the Sali family for the environment could discussions on environmental protection. not be more timely or relevant. In light of the Targeting teachers, volunteers, and com- world that we live in, initiatives such as the munity residents, the results are relevant ex- One Child, One Tree movement are truly changes on learnings and the latest develop- deserving of emulation and praise, and the ments in the field. honor bestowed on it by the Jollibee Family Similarly, the family also seeks partner- Values Awards. ships between schools, local government units and agencies, NGOs, and private corporations in order to ensure proper support for, and the continued sustainability of their initiatives.

The results have been very remarkable thus far.

From 2017 to present, the One Child, One Tree movement’s series of mangrove reforestation efforts saw the planting of 5,000 mangrove seedlings along the Tibaguin seashore in Hagonoy, Bulacan, as CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK well as the planting of over 2,000 Manila

Standard

TODAY

PHILAM FOUNDATION’S ALPHA: HELPING FILIPINOS LIVE BETTER THROUGH LATEST PROGRAMS MANILA, PHILIPPINES—AIA Philam Life strengthens its commitment to fulfill its mission of racing against risk and empowering Filipinos to live healthier, longer, and better lives not only through the products it develops, but also through its corporate social responsibility (CSR) arm, Philam Foundation.

Philam Foundation was established in 1997 to commemorate Philam Life’s 50th anniversary and create a business unit solely focused on its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. It focuses on programs that support its protection and wellness advocacies which include the Alliance for the Philippines’ Health and Advocacy (ALPHA).

In 2017, ALPHA was institutionalized by Philam Foundation, together with the Philippine College of Physicians (PCP) and the Philippine College of Surgeons (PCS), to address the health challenges faced by Filipinos through data-driven and evidence-based health advocacies and projects.

“Starting last year, AIA Philam Life has been focused on protection and wellness. With our refreshed brand promise, we are not just concerned about the physical and mental aspects of wellness, we are doing our share to help families achieve their dreams despite untoward life events,” said Max Ventura, President of Philam Foundation. “For the Foundation, it meant establishing ALPHA and creating various programs which will have an impact on health policies and patient care,” he added.

For its first salvo, the consortium partnered with Cancer CARE Registry Philippines (CARE) to spearhead the expansion of the country’s first ever hospital-based cancer registry program, with the goal of gathering data on cancer in the Philippines. The project is timely, following the passage of Republic Act No. 11213, the “National Integrated Cancer Control Act”, last year. Its ratification recognizes cancer as one of the leading causes of death, and institutionalizes a program to help control the disease. One of its provisions requires hospitals to have a cancer registry to help gather data that will provide information for best treatment and patient care.

“ALPHA will first focus on early detection, screening, and scaling up the cancer registry in the Philippines. Once the project is firmly established, we can venture into projects for non-communicable lifestyle diseases, mainly on Cardiovascular and Diabetes,” explained Ventura. “This year will be about the following primary areas: strengthening the cancer registry program, enhancing cancer surgical outcomes, improving lung cancer patient experience on treatment, eradicating surgical needs, and paving the way for universal health care implementation. By supporting these initiatives, we are able to take concrete actions that address debilitating illnesses that cause death, leading back to protection and wellness.”

Strengthening cancer registry and enhancing cancer surgical outcomes Philam Foundation finished 2019 strong with a total of 30 partner hospitals nationwide, a substantial increase from its 20 partner hospitals in the previous year. The Foundation recently forged a new partnership with the PCS–Cancer Commission which will result to 51 additional hospital partners for a more enhanced cancer registry that can cover cancer surgical outcomes. AIA Philam Life will be providing institutional support to develop and document best practices for cancer treatment and centralized training for knowledge sharing among surgeons in the Philippines.

Members of the Board of Directors for PCS - Cancer Commission discuss the different ways to strengthen the surgical outcomes for cancer treatment in the Philippines through an enhanced hospital-based cancer registry system and enhanced Tumor Boards. Represented in the meeting were the following organizations: Philam Foundation, PCS-Cancer Committee, CARE Philippines, and I Can Serve Foundation

AIA Philam Life donates PHP1.5M to Cancer (CARE) Philippines Foundation Inc., based on a committed amount from the sales of Active Joint Critical Protect.

Improving lung cancer patient experience on treatment According to the 2017 data from the World Health Organization, 11,365 Filipinos died due to lung cancer, accounting for 1.84% of total deaths. The Philippine Society of Medical Oncology also states lung cancer among the top 5 cancers causing death in the country.

Lung cancer testing can be invasive and can put people at an unnecessary risk. However, since its symptoms don’t usually manifest until the disease has advanced, early detection through screening is the best way for patients to have a higher survival rate. For this, the ALPHA consortium has allocated funds to support a 4-year study which will establish an efficient and effective approach for lung cancer testing.

Partnership between Philam Foundation, the Philippine College of Surgeons (PCS), and the Philippine College of Physicians (PCP) form the Alliance of the Philippines Health and Advocacy.

Inspired by its passion to bring to life AIA Philam Life’s brand promise, Philam Foundation is poised to level up its advocacy programs by developing programs that will support its protection and wellnessoriented focus, helping Filipinos live healthier, longer and better lives.

Know more about the Philam Foundation by visiting the AIA Philam Life website at philamlife.com, Facebook page at https://www.facebook.

Eradicating surgical needs, one community at a time ALPHA also spearheaded a coalition of various surgical-oriented organizations formed after bringing together experts from different fields for a three-day surgical camp. The group will work to standardize outreach procedures in the country as part of their vision to eradicate surgical needs in grass-roots communities.

Paving the way for universal health care implementation ALPHA is in discussion with various organizations on how the Universal Health Care can be implemented at the provincial level. Its pilot run is slated to take place in Agusan del Sur, for roll out to other provinces once best practices have been established.

2019 was closed off with a strategic planning session with the objective of expanding the hospital-based cancer registry system and increasing cancer research in the Philippines. Participants in the session were representatives from Philam Foundation, CARE Philippines, and the PCS.from Philam Foundation, CARE Philippines, and the PCS.

Philam Foundation supports the 2nd General Assembly of CARE Philippines with partner hospitals. Hospitals are trained with a standardized approach thru ICD 10 cancer coding system for the hospital-based cancer registry.

2019 Cancer Data shows top 10 cancer sites in the Philippines gathered by CARE Philippines from 27 participating hospital partners across the country.

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Mitsubishi Motors Philippines partners with Jiggy Manicad Learning Foundation for Taal relief operations

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PHOLDING the spirit of Bayanihan, Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation together with the Jiggy Manicad Learning Foundation recently went to the provinces of Batangas and Cavite to extend help to the families affected by the eruption of Taal volcano.

The team brought food, drinking water and hygiene kits to over 1,600 families and 4,600 individuals in 10 different evacuation areas.

“Our relief operations were able to reach interior areas where evacuation centers are located. These include Barangay Tres ICV and Adventist Elementary School both in Balayan, Batangas. Also, we noticed how relieved evacuees were when we had nebulizers with us for distribution.

We hope to help more in the future,” said Manicad.

MMPC said they are honored to have collaborated with Manicad’s Foundation and support government efforts to assist affected areas of the Taal volcano eruption.

Seven communities in MM receive ecobricks from Globe Plastic Xchange Program

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FTER participating in the Globe Plastic Xchange Program last year, seven communities in Metro Manila were rewarded with ecobricks which they can now use for various construction projects.

These communities are Barangay Magallanes in Makati, Andres Bonifacio Integrated School in Mandaluyong, Barangay 455 in Manila, Barangays Palatiw and San Antonio in Pasig, and Barangays Signal Village and Upper Bicutan in Taguig.

“We are glad to be part of Globe’s Plastic Xchange Program. Not only did it help us reduce our single plastic waste but now we have ecobricks which we can use to construct improvements for our urban gardening project,” said Brgy. Signal Village Captain Michelle Odevillas.

Alexander Penolio, Barangay Captain of Upper Bicutan said: “In our own little way, we can all help keep our surroundings clean. We believe small steps and actions matter, and together we can start the change and save mother earth from plastic and pollution.”

The ecobricks will be used to build community gardens and benches, a waste segregation facility, and a creek fence as well as to rehabilitate day care centers.

“Globe continues to look at new ways, such as ecobricks, to help address our country’s plastic waste problem. We started this campaign against single-use plastic with our employees and partners, and now, we are proud to see that our customers and other stakeholders are actively participating in this advocacy,” said

Globe turns over to Brgy. San Antonio, Pasig the ecobricks to be used for building a fence around the creek to prevent people from throwing trash. In photo are: (from left), Kagawad Justin Lanz Galang, Globe Citizenship and Advocacy Marketing Program Lead Arianne Munar, and Brgy. Captain Thomas Raymond Lising.

Yoly Crisanto, Globe Chief Sustainability Officer and Senior Vice President for Corporate Communications.

During the Plastic Xchange Program, Globe was able to collect 231,419 pieces of single use plastic waste which were turned into 24,500 ecobricks in Arca

South Ecohub; a processing facility by Ayala Land and Green Antz Builders, Inc., a Bulacan-based social enterprise which has developed the ecobricks as a green and more cost-effective alternative to the regular hollow blocks.

The ecobricks make use of plastic

laminates which are compressed via a proprietary process. Each ecobrick contains 100 grams of plastic.

The Plastic Xchange Program was part of WasSUP (‘Wag sa single-use plastic) advocacy of Globe which tackles the impact of plastics on the environment.

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Manila...

From F5

System or MIS of the Manila Standard, the beginning of the digital version of the publication.

“The knowledge and experience I was able to develop are things that I humbly contribute to the organization. Now, being head of the manilastandard.net, I am proud to be part of the new journalism in the digital era.”

Other 25-Year Awardees are Carlito H. Villaver (March 1, 1995), Priscilla E. Cadungog (March 1, 1995) and Roberto T. Ele (April 7, 1995).

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Roderick T. Dela Cruz, Business Assistant Editor (15 Years, March 16, 2005)

Randy G. Lumacang (20 Years, October 16, 1999)

For more than two decades, Randy has become part of the growing Manila Standard-KPPI Team. Lumacang took his position in October 1, 1999.

Riera U. Mallari, Sports and Tech Editor (20 Years, February 15, 2000) “Working for a newspaper will always be a challenge. And so it is important that you are surrounded by people you enjoy working with.”

For 15-year awardee Roderick, or Rod to his colleagues, being committed to survive the deadline of delivering news on a daily basis with the editorial team is what he looks forward to everyday despite the many challenges.

“I hope and pray that Manila Standard will continue to be a bearer of fair, accurate and important news in more decades ahead.”

Ferdinand R. Cubinar, Sales Coordinator (15 Years, November 24, 2004)

Chin Wah Wong, one of Manila Standard’s associate editors, and hired by the company on October 18, 2004, is also a 15-Year Awardee.

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Sheila has been with Manila Standard for 15 years, considering the newspaper as her second home and family. “As a family, we have gone through good times and weathered through hard times. This makes me value my work and my stay with the Manila Standard. To my Manila Standard family, I want to thank you for all the experiences that you taught me—good and bad. Thank you for supporting me in my 15-year journey.”

The 54-year-old Cubinar started working for Manila Standard in 2004. Under the circulation department, Ferdinand developed his social skills meeting various types of people. What made him stay with the company is the feeling of belonging in a family.

Ferdinand also shared that Manila Standard’s tree-planting activity is one of his most memorable experiences in the company.

“I thank Manila Standard because it had contributed a lot so much to our family life. It helped me to provide for my children’s education. Hopefully, the Manila Standard will be prosperous, stable, and still continuing to deliver the truth in the future.”

Shiela Marie P. Suarez, Advertising Deskman (15 Years, March 16, 2005)

Alfie S. Payumo, Assistant Cashier (15 Years, January 22, 2010)

Alfie started 10 years ago as a junior collector. Alfie considers braving the elements just to do his collecting job as one of his most memorable experiences with the company. He also shared that taking the job helped him gain a lot of self confidence in communicating with the newspaper’s clients.

“Happy 33rd Anniversary Manila Standard. This is the year that I am celebrating my 10 years with you—10 years of togetherness, 10 years of happiness, 10 years of making my dreams come true, 10 years of sharing, 10 years of trust, and 10 beautiful years.”

Regis S. Desales II, who joined the company on June 8, 2010, is another 10-Year Awardee.

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Manila Standard’s Loyalty Awardees For 25 years, Dazo has been with Manila Standard. As part of the KPPI group, he is the one of those tasked to make sure all the printed copies of the newspaper would be properly put. Dazo thanks the company as it helped him send his child, who is now a teacher, to college.

“I hope that the same smiles and joy that I used to see will flow through each member once again. Thank you.”

By Alicia Angelica Villanueva and Charles Arvin Dantes

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EHIND every successful enterprise are its men and women, who tirelessly and without fail, give their best to their company.

One such enterprise is the Manila Standard, which marks its 33rd year in the industry today, February 11.

Get to know more about the Manila Standard and the people behind the newspaper.

Here are its Loyalty Awardees.

Mario R. Policarpio, Jr., Chief Accountant (30 Years, October 23, 1989) Thirty years ago, as a fresh graduate, Mario was hired as a rank and file

employee. After years of hard work, perseverance and dedication, while proving his loyalty and integrity to the company, Mario was then promoted to a managerial position. With his auditing experience, he was also assigned to set up the company’s computerized accounting.

His dedication and loyalty have led him to provide for his family and his children’s education.

“Here’s hoping that Manila Standard continues to strive for excellence and improvement, while uplifting the lives of all employees and their dependents.”

Feliciano T. Buscas, Jr., Digital-OIC “Jun” Lao, who saw in me the potential to lead my department and for believing in me. Also, to former President and CEO Rogelio Salazar for helping me develop my skills by sending me to workshops and seminars so I can function well as the head of my department.”

Edgar M. Valmorida, Circulation Manager (25 Years, February 8, 1995) Egay, as they call him, is the head of the circulation department. Always striving to be true to his work, Egay looks forward toiling with his hard-working and dedicated people everyday. Up to this day, he upholds what his first boss, Boots dela Cruz, had told him during his interview with the company 25 years ago: “Here in the circulation department, we work and grow as a family.’’ My heartfelt gratitude goes to my former bosses, Messrs.

Florante “Boy” Acosta and Salvador

Heracleo L. Dazo (25 Years, June 27, 1995)

Jun to his colleagues, first started as a member of the accounting department, before being assigned to head the circulation team after years of hard work and perseverance. He had been in different departments, advertising, marketing and administrative, before heading the Management Information Continued on F4

Century Properties Group completes 2,853 condo units,

ramps up expansion in affordable housing and commercial leasing

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UBLICLY listed firm Century Properties Group, Inc. has made significant achievements in 2019 with 2,853 condominium unit completions and bullish business expansion into affordable housing through PHirst Park Homes and commercial leasing.

Under its in-city vertical developments, CPG has fully completed the 9-tower, six-hectare Azure Urban Resort Residences in Parañaque City last November with the turnover of 846 units at its final tower, the Bahamas.

Collectively, all nine Azure towers comprise 5,350 units with a total sales value of Php26.2 billion, and with 98 percent of the inventory already sold out.

The company also completed the Roxas West tower (500 units) at the 4.4-hectare The Residences at Commonwealth in Quezon City - with an additional 1,015 units expected for completion at the Quirino West and East towers - as well as Acqua Iguazu YOO inspired

by Starck tower (492 units) and by this year, the upcoming opening of Novotel Suites Manila.

The turnover of Iguazu last year and the forthcoming opening of Novotel will mark the full delivery of the six-tower Acqua Private Residences masterplan in Mandaluyong City with a total of 3,168 residential units and a sales value of P18.4 billion, with 98.6 percent of the units sold out.

Further, CPG has completed an additional 821 house and lot units as of November 2019 through its affordable housing brand PHirst Park Homes, a joint venture with Mitsubishi Corporation.

In 2017, the 33-year-old real estate firm embarked on a business expansion program to diversify to commercial leasing to bulk up its recurring income portfolio as well as affordable housing to cater to first-time homebuyers in growth centers outside of Metro Manila.

Since its launch, PHirst Park Homes has already rolled out 5 of the 15 masterplanned communities in its pipeline in Tanza, Cavite; Lipa, Batangas; and this year, in San Pablo

The Clubhouse at The Residences at Commonwealth houses the development’s ‘uncommon’ amenities such as The Show Kitchen, The Creche & Kindergarten, Rock & Roll Studio, as well as Arts & Crafts Studio among many others.

PHirst Park Homes Tanza is the maiden project of PHirst Park Homes Inc., the joint-venture company for affordable housing between Century Properties Group and Mitsubishi Corporation.

and Calamba, Laguna; and Pandi, Bulacan. launched by PHirst until 2023.

Collectively, this is 84.2 hectares and 8,799 units Under its commercial leasing business, CPG valued at P14.8 billion, with P7.7 billion sold out has completed and fully leased out the Asian as of October 2019. A total of 33,000 units will be Century Center in Bonifacio Global City with

Azure Urban Resort Residences is a nine-tower beach-inspired residential community located in Parañaque City. Century Properties announced the completion of Azure Urban Resort Residences in December 2019.

56,284 square meters of gross floor area and is soon adding to its portfolio the 41-storey PEZA-accredited Century Diamond Tower office building at Century City Makati with 63,110 square meters of gross floor area once fully completed. These properties will significantly contribute to CPG’s recurring income portfolio which the company targets to increase to 300,000 square meters of GFA with revenues of P2 billion by 2020.

“Our record high completions and launches in line with our business expansion are testament to the company’s commitment to boost CPG’s growth trajectory over time and increase shareholder value,” said CPG President and Chief Executive Officer Marco R. Antonio.

In November 2019, CPG posted a Php 1.2 billion net income for the first nine months of the year or 81 percent up from P661 million for the same period in 2018, while consolidated revenues rose to 36 percent or Php9.8 billion versus P7.2 billion year on year.

In-city vertical developments accounted for 65 percent at P773 million, affordable housing for 18 percent at P220 million, leasing for 14 percent at P166 million, and property management for 3 percent at P35 million.

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Envisioning Manila Standard’s perfect vision

By Jobe Regondola Garcia

I

N order for a progressive dream to meet fruition, we must first achieve harmony within the strata of society. One must be in tune with the other. Having said that, the Manila Standard, for its “Perfect Vision 2020” campaign, envisions to highlight businesses steering the Philippines’ growth succeed, just like the three major industries in our country.

Mondelēz International Commits to Making All Packaging Recyclable by 2025 • All paper-based packaging will be sustainably sourced by 2020 • 65 million kg of packaging material worldwide will be eliminated by 2020 • Provide recycling information in markets around the world by 2025 Mondelēz International has committed to make all packaging recyclable and provide recycling information by 2025.

The company will work in partnerships so that packaging can be collected and recycled in markets around the world, including the Philippines. This new commitment is part of the company’s strategy for a circular packaging economy and will help deliver its long-term vision for zero- net waste packaging.

The announcement reflects the company’s new purpose to empower people to snack right by offering the right snack, for the right moment, and made the right way.

This includes ensuring that the company’s products are made with ingredients that are sustainably sourced, produced and delivered, with positive impact along the supply chain.

“Reducing the environmental impact of packaging and tackling plastic waste are urgent priorities for us, which we take extremely seriously. As such we have both global and local commitments to help ensure we minimize our impact,” shares Toff Rada, CGA Country Manager of Mondelez Philippines. He continues, “Plastic is a highly efficient material which helps us develop packaging that provides the right levels of security, quality, product protection, and preservation for food products. All this while enabling us to meet our packaging elimination goals. Without it, the shelf life of many products would be far shorter and would create more food waste, which is a far worse problem for the economy and environment.”

Mondelez Philippines CGA Country Manager Toff Rada (2 nd from left) shares the Compay’s commitment to sustainability during a Pandesal Forum last January 21, led by columnist (left) Wilson Lee Flores and attended by (2 nd from right) Department of Environment and Natural Resources Undersecretary Benny Antiporda and OIC of the Quezon City Environmental Protection and Waste Management Department Andrea Villaroman.

Targeting Zero-net Waste Packaging The company’s strategy aims to deliver against its long-term vision for zero-net waste packaging by addressing two objectives: Making it easier for consumers to recycle packaging and supporting industry coalitions to improve recycling rates. To achieve this, the company is committed to the following globally: • All packaging will be made with recyclable material by 2025. The company will provide design guidelines for circular economy to packaging developers, set priorities and identify materials to use or avoid across its packaging range. Locally in its manufacturing plant in Sucat, Paranaque, 98% of the packaging waste generated is already recyclable or recycled.

• All paper-based packaging will be sustainably sourced by 2020.

• 65 million kg of packaging material worldwide will be eliminated by 2020. This is consistent with its commitment to use the right amount

of material to keep products fresh and safe, while minimizing the amount of packaging used.

• Recycling information for consumers will be provided by 2025.

The company will work to make it easy for consumers globally to recycle or re-use product packs after use.

• The company will support industry coalitions and public-private partnerships to develop vital wastemanagement infrastructure to help reduce waste and improve real-world recycling rates. The manufacturing plastic waste inside its plant in the Philippines is already used as co-fuel by a partner cement company. Mondelez Philippines has also partnered with the Philippine Alliance for Recycling and Materials Sustainability (PARMS) for a recycling facility in Paranaque. The Company has also constructed three recycled plastic play areas in Paranaque and Quezon City, with one more to be built in Quezon City in February. It is also looking to expand post-consumer collection and recycling this 2020.

Agriculture According to the World Bank’s data, in 2017, 27.7 % of workers were involved in the agricultural sector, and the Philippines is the 8th largest rice growing country in the world, mounting it to 2.8% of the worldwide production of rice. The “prime movers and shakers” in the long list of agricultural products that steer our country to prosperity are Corn and Sugarcane. Corn, next to rice, is one of the livelihood staples of the Filipino, wherein 600,000 farm households rely on the produce.

Sugarcane. What comes to mind when you hear that word? NEGROS! Yes, Negros. Bacolod, the capital city of Negros Occidental is known as the “Sugar Bowl” of the Philippines because it produces more than half of the nation’s sugar output. Did you know that almost 51% of the total area in Negros are sugarcane plantations? Truly, it is a Sugar paradise for people who are sugar lovers out there!

Coconuts. Davao Oriental would make you crave for this “giant nut”.

According to the 2009 report of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, the coconut industry plays an instrumental role in our country because we are the largest producer of coconuts, producing 19,500,000 tons! In its entirety, there are 3.6 million kilometers for coconut production in our archipelago, which comprise 25% of agricultural land.

Tourism This is a no-brainer. The tourism sector contributes to the augmentation of the Philippines’ Gross Domestic Product or GDP. In 2013, our GDP rate was up by approximately 7.1% and has increased in 2015 by 10.6%. Not to mention, we also have six UNESCO world heritage sites (namely: Baroque Churches, Vigan City, Rice Terraces, Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary, Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park and the famous Tubbataha Reefs) and eight (8) ASEAN heritage parks that surely attract both local and foreign tourists.

Manufacturing This particular sector has greatly contributed to the nation’s development as our GDP has risen to almost 25%. In 2012, it grew by 5.4% and in 2013, it once again increased to a whopping 10.5%.

Start-ups and digital services Let’s now talk about another booming sector in our country, which are the various startup companies.

I remember when Grab and Uber during that time were still viewed as “the impossible dream.” If you ask me why, it is because few people have little knowledge about these startup companies. It was viewed as mere “stylish commuting.” Booking a ride through your mobile app during those days was not taken that seriously, but lo and behold, in just a span of five to six years, it already became everybody’s everyday app.

Corroborating this topic further, the most common start-up here in the Philippines, aside from your usual app-based transport service, is e-Commerce. Think about Lazada, think about Shopee, think about Carousell. The mall comes at your doorstep. You do not need to troop down to Megamall just to shop for the greatest finds in the Metro. Very convenient and very practical.

Need someone to fix your aircon? You can now book a technician. e-commerce! Need someone to deliver goods in a flash or you want to satisfy your cravings for a bucket of chicken? You can now book a GrabExpress rider. e-commerce! It is practically now in your fingertips.

Another startup that is making rounds around town are SEO services.

SEO stands for Search Engine Optimization. To put in layman’s term, Continued on F8

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Editorial Department, headed by Publisher Rollie Estabillo

Credit & Collection Department

Admin and HR Department

Advertising Department, headed by Baldwin Felipe

Finance Department, headed by Mario Policarpio & Anita Grefal (Operations Head)

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Kagitingan Printing Press Inc., headed by Chito Constantino

Circulation Department, headed by Edgar Valmorida

MIS Department, headed by Jun Buscas

Envisioning...

We are committed to a better future for all.

Security Bank gives back to the community through various programs supporting education, livelihood, the arts, and culture – all with the goal to enrich lives, empower businesses and build communities.

From F6

SEO could be considered the “Yellow Page Directory Book” of the modern digital age. If your site has awesome content, your website shall have (and it should have) a good ranking and it would resonate to more site traffic and more viewers.

Another would be vlogging on YouTube. Since I am a bit technologically-challenged, my friends who are now vlogging on the aforementioned site, told me that if you have relevant, unique content, which equate to a niche, and in the process accumulates x number of likes, comments, shares and subscribers, that’s the time you would earn money.

The possibilities are endless.

You are not confined in a certain box. Sky is the limit in terms of creativity on YouTube, that is why it is not surprising that some household celebrities you see on TV resort to this magical video sharing platform wherein they could be as blunt as they could be.

They could discuss topics that cannot be discussed on mainstream media in an unadulterated manner.

By and large, they are the boss of the show.

As they say, “Online is the way to go,” times are changing and so should we. At some point, we must learn how to adopt to the changes of this generation and that is what the Manila Standard envisions for a progressive nation this 2020.

Through these success stories, enterprises, especially SMEs, should bear in mind to strive to be the best versions of their business but still have the capacity to give back to the larger community.

This should be everyone’s vision, every individual, every institution; to commit to a cause, have the moral compass to do the greater good, and contribute in nation-building.

To this, we say cheers to an awesome year ahead!

STAFF BOX Rolando G. Estabillo Publisher Ramon L. Tomeldan Managing Editor

SCHOOL

Annie Grefal Operations Head Editor Riera Mallari Advertising Sales Manager Baldwin Felipe Supplement Head Paula Reynoso

For inquiries and comments, please call our 24-Hour Customer Service hotline at (632) 8887-9188 or email us at customercare@securitybank.com.ph. Security Bank Corporation is supervised by Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas with telephone number (632) 8708-7087 and email address consumeraffairs@bsp.gov.ph.

Sales Team Merce Pascual Shirley Umali Belinda Good

Writers Peter Paul Duran MJ Blancaflor Charles Arvin Dantes Angelica Villanueva Paul Gelario Jobe Garcia Sales and Advertising Support Shiela Suarez Joan Velasco Edelyn Elamparo Eric Jutic

Designers Linda Apalisok MC Macaranas Vicky Ayeng

By Peter Paul Duran

F

OR decades, the Philippines has seen the onslaught of countless devastating typhoons, felt the brunt of destructive earthquakes, and the threat of drought, every now and then.

If the country had a logbook of all the natural calamities it endured, the entries would be long and with numerous footnotes.

Since 1990, the Philippines has been affected by more than 500 natural disasters, which have claimed the lives of nearly 70,000 Filipinos and caused an estimated $23 billion in damages, according to the Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery (GFDRR).

This makes the Philippines one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world.

A report from GFDRR also states that apart from frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, an average of 20 typhoons make landfall every year in the Philippines.

This is no surprise as the country is located along the “Pacific Ring of Fire.”

In fact, at least 60% of the total land area of the Philippines is exposed to multiple hazards and 74% of the population is vulnerable to their impact.

Along these lines, threats from natural disasters in the Philippines have been increasing, and over the last decade, typhoons making landfall have become stronger and more devastating.

The Philippines was recently struck by category 5 storms, with winds exceeding 250 km per hour in 2012 and 2013, most notably back in 2013 when Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan), the strongest storm ever recorded at landfall, caused over 6,000 reported fatalities and damaged 1.1 million homes in nine regions.

The report further explained that the extensive damage caused by the natural disaster resulted in 2.3 million

The need for a Department of Disaster Resilience

Filipinos falling below the poverty line, particularly in highly affected areas.

But it isn’t all-natural; as climate change, brought about by the effects of human activity, is also exacerbating the impact of weather-related events in the Philippines, GFDRR said.

It likewise notes that unregulated urban expansion has also aggravated flooding risks and is expected to worsen in the future.

The Philippines is also witnessing longer episodes of drought and El Niño,

disrupting the volume of agricultural production and affecting GDP. More recently, a series of earthquakes hit different parts of the country with damaging effects. The Luzon, as well as the Cotabato and Southern Mindanao quakes, certainly had people on their toes.

Taal Volcano, long considered as one of the country’s most active volcano, continues to threaten to wreak havoc 14 kilometers within its vicinity, leaving over 100,000 families still affected by its initial spewing of ash, steam, and

deadly sulfuric substances.

Nearly 400,000 people are still affected

by Taal’s recent activity.

But if the country has been, and still will, experience spates of natural disasters, why is there a lingering notion that the country is underprepared for such calamities, if not, still surprised by the effects of these phenomena with recovery proving slow for affected communities?

Fortunately, lawmakers are pushing for the creation of a branch of government that will solely, and intently, come up with actions and long-term plans to make the Philippines disaster resilient.

Enter the proposed Department of Disaster Resilience, which in fact, has been a buzzword in the legislative sector for quite some time now.

Thankfully, the House of Representatives is stepping up to the plate and taking action in the materialization of this would-be department.

In truth, House Majority Leader and Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez said Congress would expedite the passage of President Rodrigo Duterte’s priority measures, including bills creating executive departments for Filipino overseas workers, water resources, and most especially, disaster resilience before the next adjournment in March.

“We aim to hit the ground running when session resumes. Time to roll up our sleeves once again and work double time on vital legislative measures,” Romualdez said.

“The speaker made clear instructions to pass these bills. No less than President Rodrigo Duterte himself called on Congress to work on these measures during his fourth State of the Nation Address last July,” he added.

Congress would vote on third and final reading other vital measures, he cited.

“This includes House Bill No. 5673 authorizing the Department of Health to set and approve the bed capacity and service capability of all DoH-retained

hospitals in all parts of the country,” Romualdez explained.

This means that slowly, disaster resilience, more than preparedness, is now becoming more of a priority. This is a big deal considering that efforts in the past have been poured on disaster response only.

With the DDR, there will be a comprehensive, focused and full-time government agency tasked to lead the Philippines’ disaster preparedness, response and recovery efforts.

Establishing this agency provides proper education, training, risk reduction mitigation, relief, and rehabilitation with the tools and technical know-how to better address the country’s perennial problems with natural disasters.

This comes at no surprise, as with the advent of digitalization and the fast innovations in convergent Information and Communications Technologies, there have been solutions that will address endto-end needs for the effective, efficient and transparent implementation of disaster resiliency programs for the whole of the Philippines.

We can learn from our friendly neighbor in the Asia-Pacific region in Japan when it comes to integrating technologies in disaster resiliency. Japan, sitting at the Pacific Ring of Fire just like the Philippines, boasts of well-developed ICT systems in addressing disasters.

The three integrated systems in place are the Earthquake Early Warning System, J-Alert, and the Emergency Alert Mail.

These systems are responsible for processing an earthquake’s hypocenter, magnitude and intensity transmits warnings instantaneously nationwide, and immediately trigger a cell broadcast for all affected persons about the critical infrastructure that could be damaged.

We need the DDR sooner than later.

Countless lives depend on it.

SMC bats use of innovative environmental technologies

By Alicia Angelica Villanueva

B

Y the year 2025, San Miguel Corporation commits to reduce its usage of water by 50% in all of its industries.

That goal, which started in 2016, is part of SMC’s “Water for All” sustainability project that aims to reduce domestic and utility use of water across the company’s beverage, food, packaging, power, infrastructure and fuel businesses.

Earlier last year, the company announced its progress by reducing 23% in 2018, beating its stated goal to reduce water consumption by 20% in 2020.

“This is a significant milestone for us and we’re highly encouraged by these results,” said SMC President and Chief Operating Officer Ramon S. Ang. “It was only the second year since we announced this major sustainability goal, and already, the effort and commitment of those in our company tasked with making this goal a reality, have started to pay off,” added Ang. Among SMC’s objectives

were to eliminate wastage of water across their operations, reuse and recycle more water, reduce the usage of ground and surface water, protect vital water resources, and harvest rainwater.

More than its water sustainability project, SMC also partnered with Philippine Bioresins Corporation, a small but innovative company that has successfully developed and tested biodegradable plastics.

This is to take the initiative of utilizing fully-certified biodegradable plastic packaging.

“We have always been looking for innovative environmental technologies and we are excited about this development. We are looking forward to using biodegradable plastics, and this is just the beginning as they are developing other technologies in this field,” Ang said.

Another milestone for SMC

San Miguel Corporation (SMC) is set to become the first Filipino company to utilize fully-certified biodegradable plastic packaging.

was achieved in November 2019 when the company introduced the country’s first recycled plastics road.

Asphalt made of plastics, combined with bitumen, were placed on a pilot test site in a new logistics center in General Trias, Cavite with an area of 1,500-sqms.

Almost 900 kilos of plastic wastes that included plastic

sachets and bags were used for the asphalt.

The test site was chosen as it will be used primarily as a marshaling area for trucks with heavy loads, including 18-wheelers and heavy equipment.

“What we want to achieve is to help address an important environmental issue, and that is plastic wastes. We want to

create a sustainable use for waste plastics so that they don’t end up in landfills and our rivers and oceans,” shared Ang. The use of plastic wastes in the production of asphalt will not just help save the environment from plastic pollution, but can also make the road longer-lasting and more durable.